North State Journal Vol. 8, Issue 42

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 42

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WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023

the

BRIEF this week

NFIB finds small business owners ‘pessimistic’ about future business conditions Raleigh NFIB’s Small Business Optimism Index decreased slightly in November to 90.8, marking the 23rd consecutive month below the 50-year average of 98.

Twenty-two percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business, unchanged from October.

“Job openings on Main Street remain elevated as the economy saw a strong third quarter,” NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said. “However, small business owners have not seen a strong wave of workers to fill their open positions.

Inflation also continues to be an issue.”

NFIB North Carolina State Director Gregg Thompson added Tuesday, “Our small business members are deeply frustrated. It’s hard for them to fill positions, and it’s even harder for them to hold prices in check when inflation keeps pushing up prices across the board.”

MATT MERCER | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Christmas at the Executive Mansion

The staircase at the North Carolina Executive Mansion in Raleigh is shown during the annual Christmas open house on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023.

NSJ STAFF

Bishop files for attorney general

ECU poll: Trump holds wide lead among NC Republican primary voters Greenville Former President Donald Trump has the support of 63% of Republican primary voters according to a poll released by the ECU Center for Survey Research.

Following behind the former president are Former South Carolina Gov. And UN Ambassador Nikki Haley at 13%, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis at 10%, Vivek Ramaswamy at 3% and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie at 2%.

The ECU center’s director, Dr. Peter Francia, said in a polling summary that Trump is a “near lock” to win the North Carolina Republican presidential primary.

The ECU poll surveyed 915 registered voters in late November and early December.

NSJ STAFF

Tillis backs Graham in primary for governor Raleigh U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis endorsed Salisbury trial attorney Bill Graham for governor over Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in a story first reported by National Review Online.

“I intend to do everything I can to help him get the nomination,” Tillis told NR about the endorsement on Friday, Dec. 8. “I’m looking at two resumes and there’s a stark contrast in capabilities.”

Tillis and Graham share a political consultant, Paul Shumaker.

NSJ STAFF

Showing their support, three state district attorneys filed for reelection alongside Bishop

Former Knightdale firefighter sues town over ‘unlawful’ termination tied to COVID shot mandate

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina on Nov. 17 on behalf of Lumley by Thomas Moore Society attorneys Stephen M. Crampton of Tupelo, Mississippi, and B. Tyler Brooks of Greensboro.

Lumley had filed charges in a timely manner with the EEOC, which in turn issued a right-to-sue letter to Lumley and his attorneys.

The 26-page lawsuit asserts Lumley is a “Christian with sincerely held religious beliefs that prevent him from receiving any of the avail-

RALEIGH — A former firefighter is suing the Town of Knightdale over the town refusing his religious exemption to the town’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for its workers and then firing him for refusing the shot.

Tyrone Lumley, a trained professional firefighter, worked for the Knightdale Fire Department from 2020 through December 2021 when he was forced off the job by the town. Lumley’s rank at the time was that of lieutenant.

The civil action lawsuit was See FIREFIGHTER, page A8

NC K-12 Public School enrollment rises, still struggling to reach pre-pandemic levels

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Enrollment figures for school choice options continue to rise in North Carolina while public school numbers continue to struggle to reach pre-pandemic levels.

In October, the N.C. Department of Public Instruc-

tion (NCDPI) unveiled its first month of public school student population data for the 202324 academic year that shows the state saw a slight increase in enrollment but still a continued deficit of thousands of students when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

As per the latest Principal’s See SCHOOLS, page A2

“I’m also here with Dan Bishop… you know, we could have chosen any day this week or next week to file and I wanted to be here with Dan to celebrate the fact that we finally have a Republican running for attorney general that I think

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal can win,” Hardin said.

Hardin said that he hopes RALEIGH — Republican to tackle the backlog of cases U.S. Dan Bishop (NC-08) of- his office has been working on ficially filed his paperwork to during his first term. run for North Carolina attor“Our murderer backlog, I’ve ney general on Friday, Dec. 8. got it within two and a half Bishop filed alongyears now, which has side multiple state been a big deal since district attorneys, inI started off and was cluding Mike Hardin handed this district (Hoke/Moore) and “I’m going with a seven-year Andy Gregson (Ran- to pursue backlog on homicide dolph). cases,” Hardin said.

Gregson has been this office “We’re going to in office since 2017. to restore a punish criminals,” Hardin is running Gregson said when culture of law asked about priorifor a second term.

“I’m going to pur- and order.” ties if reelected. “We sue this office to reare the anti-woke store a culture of DA’s office and we U.S. Rep. law and order,” Bishplan to continue to op told North State Dan Bishop, be that way.”

Journal after filing candidate for Hardin echoed his candidacy paperGregson’s “anti-woke attorney general DA” sentiment and work.

“Americans across the country went on to criticize and people in North the politicization of Carolina are fearful, they’re the attorney general’s office. angry, they’re dismayed by this “What I’ve been tired about growing sense of disarray and this entire time and dealing disorder, certainly most prom- with… this is 27 years for me… inently in the criminal law with the attorney general’s ofarea, but also in other areas fice is that it’s been run as a poas they see sort of an erosion litical office,” said Hardin. “It’s of institutions – or the sort of not been run with the idea of co-opting of institutions – that following the law.” cause them to do things that “And that’s a sad situation are contrary to law and order.” when you have an attorney While Bishop is the only Re- general who’s going to use that publican running for North office for political purposes Carolina attorney general, four just to have an agenda,” HarDemocrats have indicated in- din said. “I’ve had my own exterest in the state’s top law en- periences with Josh Stein. He forcement spot; Fayetteville certainly is agenda-driven and lawyer Tim Dunn, Kenansville he has had nothing to do with lawyer Charles Ingram, Con- actually following the rule of gressman Jeff Jackson (NC- law.”

14), and Durham District AtBoth Gregson and Hartorney Santana Deberry. din spoke of other issues with In speaking with North Stein’s leadership as attorney State Journal, Gregson and general, such as the lack of apHardin backed Bishop for attorney general and expressly came to file their candidacy See BISHOP, page A2 paperwork alongside Bishop to underscore their support of his candidacy.

“I’m excited that we have a candidate that has fidelity to the law and, we had a conversation before, and I believe that things are going to change in this state,” said Gregson. $2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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12.13.23 #414

“One of One” Visit us online nsjonline.com North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Cory Lavalette Managing/Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Griffin Daughtry Business/Features Editor Jordan Golson Locals Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday

by North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 or online at nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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THE WORD: ‘GAUDETE’

“Gaudete” might be the most well-known Christmas carol performed in Latin. Its up-tempo and joyous melody make it accessible for audiences who might not understand a word of the lyrics.

Thought to have been composed in the 16th century, “Gainey’s” was published in “Piae Cantiones,” a collection of Finnish and Swedish sacred songs in the early 1580s. It is typically performed with accompaniment.

Reflecting the joyous themes of “Gaudeyte,” this Sunday will mark the third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. It is a special time in the Christian calendar, signaling a shift from a period of waiting to one of joy and anticipation as the celebration of Christ’s birth draws near. “Gaudete,” beautifully embodies this spirit of joy.

The Latin text of the song represents a quintessential 16th-century song of praise, conforming to the period’s typical format of a series of four-line stanzas, each prefaced by a two-line refrain, known in early English carols as the “burden.” While these carols varied in subject matter, they predominantly focused on themes such as the Virgin Mary, saints, or aspects of the Yuletide season, reflecting the prevalent religious and cultural narratives of the era.

The closed gate of Ezekiel referenced in “Gaudete,” refers to a prophecy from the Book of Ezekiel. Ezekiel 44:1-2 describes a closed gate in the temple that only the Lord can pass through.

This passage, and accordingly the verse in “Gaudete” are seen as a prophecy about the Virgin Mary and the birth of Jesus Christ. The “closed gate” is symbolically understood as Mary’s virginity, and the only one passing through the gate is seen as Jesus, signifying the virgin birth.

The upbeat “Gaudete” helps elevate the Advent season from the more melancholy carols associated with the first two Sundays. The song reminds us of the rejoicing that will soon come on Christmas which enables every person to ultimately experience eternal joy through Christ.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“The Mystical Nativity” by Sandro Botticelli (1500) is painting in the collection of The National Gallery, London.

SCHOOLS from page A1 Monthly Report (PMR) which contains Average Daily Membership (ADM) information, traditional public schools account for 1,358,003 students in the 2023-24 academic year.

That’s a 0.4% decline from the previous year and an overall decrease of 3.6% since the preCOVID-19 period.

A decade ago, the final month ADM stood at 1,427,281 for the 2012-2013 school year; a 5.10% gap compared to the current year’s initial ADM. Public charter schools, on the other hand, have seen a rise in enrollment, with 139,985 students across 209 schools in the 2023-24 academic year, marking a 4.9% increase from the previous year.

The gains continue a trend seen in 2022’s data where Charter enrollment was up 6.4% over the previous year and up over 19% since the 2019-20 school year.

According to a 2022 report by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools that examined school enrollment trends for the years during and after the pandemic (2019-2022), North Carolina was fifth-highest in the nation for charter enrollment gains during the pandemic.

The Alliance’s report says that during the same period, North Carolina had the ninth-largest public school enrollment

BISHOP from page A1 plication of the death penalty in the state and the rape kit backlog.

“When Josh Stein ran for attorney general, I specifically and personally asked him about getting the death penalty moving and he pledged, in a debate that I witnessed, that he was prodeath penalty,” Gregson said.

“We have had two Democratic attorney generals and in that time we’ve not had one single person executed who richly deserves it.”

When asked about the state’s rape kit backlog, which at one point in 2017 was the largest in the nation with over 15,000, Hardin called Stein’s engagement on the issue a “ploy.”

“That was a ploy by Josh Stein when he ran for office against Jim O’Neill and you know, he used that as a tool,” Hardin said referring to Stein’s 2020 campaign ad attack on O’Neill, the Forsyth District Attorney.

During his campaign for at-

AP PHOTO

Desks are arranged in a classroom at an elementary school.

53,347 homeschooled students during the 2012-23 school year.

Homeschooling enrollment exploded during the pandemic, jumping almost 104% between the 2020-21 and 2019-20 school years.

NDPE’s 2022-23 data for private schools shows enrollment of 126,768 students across 884 schools.

Ten years ago, during the 2012-2013 school year, there were 698 private schools and 95,948 students in North Carolina. Compared to the current year’s number, that’s over a 26.6% increase in the number of schools and a more than 32% increase in student enrollment.

Private school enrollment will likely continue to grow following the General Assembly’s passage of the largest expansions of school choice the state has seen to date by extending access to the popular Opportunity Scholarship Program to all students in the state.

Every eligible student will be able to apply for funds to attend the private school of their choice using a sliding scale based on household income level with funding priority going to lower-income families. Under the expansion, eligible students will get at least an amount of up to 45% of the average state per-pupil allocation for average daily membership in the prior fiscal year, which currently would be $3,458.

drop in the nation, losing over 48,280 students. A similar data study conducted by BEST NC for the same timeframe showed public schools lost 41,203 while public charter schools gained 14,848 students.

According to the N.C. Department of Non-Public Education (DNPE), during the last school year, there were 152,717 homeschooled students.

For 2022-23, DNP reported 94,154 homeschools. All 100

counties in the state reported homeschool activity that year, with Wake County having the largest number of homeschools at 14,009, and Tryell County with the fewest at 53.

For comparison, there were

torney general, O’Neill brought up the 15,000 untested kits, alleging Stein had failed to act on during first term as attorney general. Stein then issued a campaign ad accusing O’Neill of letting over a thousand kits go untested despite the state crime lab being responsible for kit testing.

The state crime lab has made some headway reducing the number of the 2017 kit total, however, five years later the backlog persists.

Bishop pointed out some of Stein’s own press releases touting his actions also admitted why certain kits can’t be tested.

“But after he exploited it [rape kit testing] for political purposes, his own news release sort of in the lower paragraphs, discloses that most the kits that were an issue were not susceptible of being tested for some reason or another,” said Bishop. “That’s what D.A. Hardin just made reference to, and that’s the kind of that’s the kind of phoniness and trickery that you see all too often

in politics today.”

“But this role is just absolutely an inviting one to bring focus to those efforts,” said Bishop of his run for attorney general. “And that requires listening to these people [the district attorneys] and hearing about their experiences and seeing to it that they are represented in the discussions with the general assembly and I will do that.”

When asked about transparency at the N.C. Department of Justice and the department’s rumored backlog of unfulfilled public records requests, Bishop pledged to make information available.

“Anybody that knows me or that has followed me has observed that I don’t run and hide,” said Bishop, adding that he doesn’t think “executive government should run and hide” either.

“We’re going to make information available and I’m going to make myself available,” Bishop said, adding that he is “happy to take on critics.”

From left: Randolph County District Attorney Andy Gregson, Hoke/Moore County District Attorney Mike Hardin, U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop, and Harnett/Lee County District Attorney Suzanne Matthews.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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UNC BOG issues college ROI report as US companies drop bachelor’s degree requirements

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A University of North Carolina Board of Governors committee recently issued a report on the Return on Investment (ROI) for students enrolled in the system’s programs.

The 80-page ROI report was presented by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors’ Committee on Educational Planning, Policies, and Programs’ Committee on Strategic Initiatives and was discussed by the UNC System Board of Governors at its most recent meeting held Nov. 15.

Deloitte, rpk GROUP and The Burning Glass Institute were the entities producing the research for the report.

Several years ago, the General Assembly directed the UNC Board of Governors (BOG) to contract with an independent consultant to evaluate current programs at each UNC institution with regard to operational costs, student outcomes, and ROI of each program. The report is headed to the legislature for review.

The study conducted ROI calculations for 765 undergraduate and 599 graduate programs in the UNC System between 2015 and 2020. It compared the expected lifetime earnings of UNC graduates against those without a college degree (for undergraduates) or with a bachelor’s degree (for graduates) using the American Community Survey.

Per the report, the median incremental lifetime ROI for undergraduates came out at $494,091, while for graduates, it landed at $930,515.

Deloitte’s Peter Fritz described the report’s findings as akin to receiving “a check for $500,000” upon graduation from the program.

In terms of state spending, for every dollar the state invests in the UNC system, students can expect an additional $23 in lifetime earnings.

Overall, 93% of the 1,364 programs examined had a positive ROI, with 94% of undergrad and 91% of graduate programs showing positive returns, according to

the report.

Among graduate programs, 68% provided a median lifetime ROI greater than $500,000.

Graduates from 42 undergraduate and 83 graduate programs earned a median lifetime ROI greater than $1M, many aligning with critical workforce needs in the state. Programs with returns exceeding $1M that are no longer active are excluded from the detailed tables.

Other findings included 96% of Health Professions and Related programs of study provided a positive ROI for students at both undergraduate and graduate levels and “significant upward mobility” was observed across the various schools and programs offered with 89.6% of low-income graduates moving up at least one income band as their careers progress.

The highest returns were found in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Biotechnology degrees were identified as the most lucrative, with a median lifetime return exceeding $3.2 million.

Programs mitigating the costs of attending UNC System Schools received praise in the ROI report.

“The system, through support from the legislature and under the leadership of President Peter Hans, has built robust programs such as the NC Promise and the Fixed Tuition Program that increase educational access, reduce student debt, and ultimately boost the State’s economy,” the report says.

Current undergraduate tuition, including fees, across the 16 schools in the UNC System for in-state residents can range from a low of $3,391 a year (Elizabeth City) to a high of $9,006 (UNC School of the Arts). Out-of-state undergraduate tuition, including fees, has a low end of $7,391 (Elizabeth City) and a high end of $39,092 (UNC Chapel Hill).

Similarly, the lowest tuition and fee rates for in-state graduate students is currently $5,766 at year (Elizabeth City) and the highest comes in at $12,262 (UNC Chapel Hill). For out-ofstate graduate students, the low-

“The system, through support from the legislature and under the leadership of President Peter Hans, has built robust programs such as the NC Promise and the Fixed Tuition Program that increase educational access, reduce student debt, and ultimately boost the State’s economy.”

UNC Board of Governors’ report est is $18,828 (Elizabeth City) and the highest is $30,554 (UNC Chapel Hill).

Elizabeth City’s rate remains the lowest for both graduate and undergraduate because it is one of four UNC System schools currently part of the NC Promise Tuition Plan created by the legislature in 2016. The plan’s tuition rates for in-state students is $500 a semester and out-of-state students pay $2,500 each semester.

When compared to the national average for in-state undergraduate tuition costs at public universities of around $10,622, most UNC System schools end up being cheaper. Nationally, graduate student program tuition is steeper, with full-time two-year graduate degrees often costing over $100,000 or even more if one pursues a doctorate.

“The dashboards are meant to be used as living tools that the General Assembly can use to help spark data-informed conversations with both the System Office and the constituent universities that make up the University of North Carolina and have limited value in isolation without institutional context and conversation,” the report’s conclusion states.

The conclusion also said the various data dashboards in the report were essentially a jumping-off point, that the data would need to be refreshed, and offered

suggestions for keeping the data current.

Limitations with the report data were noted, including the absence of wage data for students who earn degrees in the UNC System but pursue careers in other states.

The ROI report comes at a time when U.S. corporations are dropping bachelor’s degree requirements for employment.

Per a November 2023 survey of 800 employers in the U.S. conducted by Intelligent.com, 55% of companies have already cut bachelor’s degree requirements in 2023.

Big names in business like IBM, Bank of America, WalMart, and even Google have already announced similar changes.

Another 45% of companies said they plan to eliminate those degree requirements for some positions in 2024.

The survey’s findings also showed 70% of companies say they eliminated bachelor’s degree requirements to create “a more diverse workforce,” and that four out of five employers value experience over education when evaluating job candidates.

Similarly, the lowest tuition and fee rates for in-state graduate students is currently $5,766 at year (Elizabeth City) and the highest comes in at $12,262 (UNC Chapel Hill). For out-ofstate graduate students, the lowest is $18,828 (Elizabeth City) and the highest is $30,554 (UNC Chapel Hill).

Elizabeth City’s rate remains the lowest for both graduate and undergraduate because it is one of four UNC System schools currently part of the NC Promise Tuition Plan created by the legislature in 2016. The plan’s tuition rates for in-state students is $500 a semester and out-of-state students pay $2,500 each semester.

When compared to the national average for in-state undergraduate tuition costs at public universities of around $10,622, most UNC System schools end up being cheaper. Nationally, graduate student program tuition is steeper, with full-time

Tougher penalties for rioting, power station attacks among new NC laws taking effect The Associated Press

UTILITY ATTACK

RIOTING PENALTIES North Carolina’s anti-rioting statute now contains higher criminal punishments and some new crimes pushed by Republicans in response to protests against racial injustice and

The law doesn’t allow firearms during school hours or when any students are present. And it still doesn’t apply when a public notice prohibiting concealed weapons is posted.

STATE HIRING It’s now unlawful for state agencies, community colleges and the University of North Carolina system to compel applicants for rank-and-file jobs to reveal their personal or political beliefs to get hired. The law, which doesn’t prevent opining voluntarily, was hailed by Republicans as protecting free speech and diversity of thought.

In response to GOP opposition to Critical Race Theory, the law also bans trainers of state employees from advancing concepts to workers such as that “one race or sex is inherently superior to another race or sex,” or to believe they should feel guilty for past actions committed by people of the same race or sex.

The legislation became law over Cooper’s veto.

RALEIGH — New or tougher criminal penalties against rioting, vandalizing power stations and harassing law enforcement officers and emergency workers are among North Carolina laws approved this year that took effect Friday.

Expanded gun rights at some places of worship and prohibitions on state agencies from demanding job applicants comment on personal and political beliefs also are among over two dozen new laws that took effect in part on Dec. 1.

Increased punishments for intentionally damaging or attempting to damage energy facilities received strong bipartisan support in the legislature following the December 2022 electrical substation shootings in Moore County that cut power to about 45,000 homes and businesses for days.

The enacted measure, which also would apply to damaged power lines, wires or other operating equipment, makes such attacks a high-grade felony that would likely result in several years of prison time for a first offender. A person who is injured or whose property is damaged by a utility attack also has grounds to sue for monetary damages.

two-year graduate degrees often costing over $100,000 or even more if one pursues a doctorate.

“The dashboards are meant to be used as living tools that the General Assembly can use to help spark data-informed conversations with both the System Office and the constituent universities that make up the University of North Carolina and have limited value in isolation without institutional context and conversation,” the report’s conclusion states.

The conclusion also said the various data dashboards in the report were essentially a jumping-off point, that the data would need to be refreshed, and offered suggestions for keeping the data current.

Limitations with the report data were noted, including the absence of wage data for students who earn degrees in the UNC System but pursue careers in other states.

The study’s prolonged production time, exceeding 18 months, was attributed to resistance from the Department of Commerce, which the UNC System and its external partners needed to collaborate with for wage data, as had been the case with previous reports dating back to 1996.

The ROI report comes at a time when U.S. corporations are dropping bachelor’s degree requirements for employment.

Per a November 2023 survey of 800 employers in the U.S. conducted by Intelligent.com, 55% of companies have already cut bachelor’s degree requirements in 2023.

Big names in business like IBM, Bank of America, WalMart, and even Google have already announced similar changes.

Another 45% of companies said they plan to eliminate those degree requirements for some positions in 2024.

The survey’s findings also showed 70% of companies say they eliminated bachelor’s degree requirements to create “a more diverse workforce,” and that four out of five employers value experience over education when evaluating job candidates.

OTHER LAWS

AP PHOTO

A Marine color guard marches into the Senate chamber during the opening session of the North Carolina General Assembly in Raleigh police brutality in 2020 that at times became violent.

Fines and prison time have increased, typically by a couple years or more, for protesters who brandish a weapon, injure somebody or cause significant property damage. The law also creates new crimes for protesters who cause a death or incite a riot that contributes to one. Business owners also are able to seek compensation from protesters who damage property.

In the weeks after the bill was enacted, the American Civil Lib-

erties Union of North Carolina sued to block enforcement of the state’s anti-rioting law. The lawsuit is pending.

GUNS AT CHURCHES A gun-rights bill that became law when legislators overrode Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto already eliminated a requirement that someone obtain a permit from their local sheriff before they can purchase a handgun. Other provisions that took effect Friday ease rules for peo-

ple who want to carry a pistol at buildings where some churches hold services.

The law says people with a separate concealed weapons permit can carry a gun openly or under clothing while they attend religious services at a location where private or charter schools also meet. State law otherwise prohibits guns on school property. Some church leaders had complained it was harder to protect parishioners at these sites then at traditional church venues.

Penalties have been increased for people who point lasers at law enforcement officers, while a new offense has been created for pointing them at emergency medical technicians and police animals like K-9s.

Another new law increases criminal penalties against K-12 educators who commit certain sex offenses against students.

Punishments for intentionally disseminating obscene materials also have risen to a more severe felony if the suspect knowingly commits the crime in the presence of a child.

And unauthorized street takeovers — in which motorists block traffic to perform burnouts, doughnuts and other stunts — also have now become officially illegal, with first-time violations categorized as a misdemeanor, carrying fines of at least $1,000.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Obamacare for multimillionaires?

If young voters think every dollar of federal entitlement social spending is going to help poor people — they are sadly mistaken, deluded and deceived.

IF WE WERE FORMING a new government today, would we devise a social safety net which would allow multimillionaires to participate as automatic beneficiaries?

Of course not. The only forms of government established by elites for the benefit of elites are socialism and dictatorships. Take a look around the globe.

Americans who succeed in life pride themselves on self-reliance, determination and hard work. Why would any super-wealthy person succumb to “sucking at the federal teat” as former Sen. Alan Simpson of Wyoming used to eloquently ― and bluntly ― describe entitlement programs?

Many people, particularly young voters, say government has the “duty” to take care of poor people as a moral imperative. Beyond providing for the common defense and security of our nation, taking care of those less fortunate is a primary part of annual government spending at all levels.

However, if young voters think every dollar of federal entitlement social spending is going to help poor people ― they are sadly mistaken, deluded and deceived.

Welfare is described as “a range of government programs that provide financial or other aid to individuals or groups who cannot support themselves.” Transferring financial assets from a taxpayer to a beneficiary in existing entitlement programs for any reason is welfare. It is not voluntary because payroll taxes are mandatory and you can go to jail for noncompliance.

However, under current entitlement law, it doesn’t matter if a person is rich or poor ― if you qualify based on age or income, you get the transfer payment from the government.

I was reminded of this inequity when I heard about a gentleman who did very well in business and retired at age 50. God bless him. He has paid off all of his loans for several homes, a few cars and college education for four children in full. He has saved well over $10M in liquid assets which could be accessed at any time by him for any purpose. He and his wife live on $50,000 per year from income on his investments.

He applied for individual health insurance on the open market and found out ― to his great surprise ― he qualified for a $1,450/month Affordable Care Act (ACA) payment from the federal government in the Obamacare exchange. By law, he will only have to pay $145 out of his own pocket each

month to satisfy his 10% share of the 90/10 ACA match.

This man has $10M of liquid financial net worth in case you missed it.

This guy, being an honest sort, challenged the ACA administrator to see if this was correct since he had a friend still self-employed ― not worth $10 million ― who found out his private health insurance was going to cost him $1,500/month in 2024 ― with no subsidy at all. The ACA agent assured him it was correct since taxable income is the sole determining factor when determining ACA eligibility.

That doesn’t make any equitable sense in terms of what the purpose of our democratic republic is supposed to be all about. A wealthy person was never intended to be a beneficiary of Obamacare ― poor people and working near-poor people were.

A rarely talked-about but important factor in federal spending has been the amount of welfare allocated to uber-wealthy people. American citizens have been convinced by liberal politicians not to touch any of the entitlement programs which deliver benefits to uber-wealthy billionaires because, as liberals say: “It will undermine the integrity of such-and-such program”.

To use an old word, that is hogwash, which came from the Middle English word “hoggewasch” meaning “scraps of food (swill) thrown to swine”. There are over 2.1 million American families with a net worth over $10M. Most of them are older and probably draw Social Security and receive heavily taxsubsidized Medicare health coverage as well. They paid payroll taxes as long as they drew a salary and would do so regardless of whether they receive any benefits or not in the future because that is how taxes work.

Every liberal screams “don’t means-test entitlements!”. What are they talking about? Medicare Part B is already means-tested in a six-step escalated manner. Lower-income seniors pay only $164/month while wealthier seniors pay up to $560/month based solely on income.

On average, every Medicare recipient will receive almost twice as much in benefits after age 65 as they paid in Medicare payroll taxes. Uber-wealthy folks who really don’t need any government assistance at all ― and who pride themselves on being totally self-reliant and successful on their own ― get a healthy taxpayer-provided health care subsidy in Medicare.

Since Congress has done nothing to arrest the explosion in spending since 2001, a good place to start would be means-testing every entitlement spending program and provision in the U.S. tax code.

We have to start somewhere.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

Celebrities raise colon cancer awareness — and so can you

Sports icons such as Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott have taken part in unconventional campaigns to encourage people, especially men, to get their screenings done.

THOUGH I HAVE ALWAYS had respect for cancer patients, their families, and the efforts made to raise awareness about the awful disease in all its forms, that respect took on a whole new meaning after my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer in October 2022.

For well over a year before her diagnosis, we knew something was wrong but couldn’t nail it down. We chalked up some of her symptoms to food intolerances and tried to make dietary adjustments, but we couldn’t explain all of her symptoms away.

One doctor suggested an issue that merely required some antibiotics and from there we hoped the issue would resolve itself.

But it wasn’t until she had her colonoscopy, which she had been putting off despite recommendations from other doctors because she was prioritizing caring for my dad, that we learned it wasn’t a minor issue that could be taken care of by taking prescription medicine for a couple of weeks.

Needless to say, both mom, my sisters and I have learned a lot more about colon cancer over the last year thanks in part to doing more research and also thanks to her amazing care team, from her surgical oncologist and his staff, her medical oncologist and his staff, and her primary care physician and his team.

And though it might be that we notice it more because of what mom went through, it seems like awareness campaigns at the national level about the importance of getting a colonoscopy have ramped up.

Celebrities like actors Terry Crews and

AP PHOTO

Terry Crews arrives for a live broadcast of “America’s Got Talent” Season 18 on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023, in Pasadena, Calif.

Ryan Reynolds and sports icons such as Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott have taken part in unconventional campaigns to encourage people, especially men, to get their screenings done.

As the Colorectal Cancer Alliance announced, the initiative is called “Lead from Behind,” and the approach is, as one might imagine, to use humorous and entertaining ways to get people to pay attention to a very serious issue.

“Through a series of unique and creative videos featuring celebrities in sports and entertainment highlighting the variety of colon cancer screening options that people can choose from, ‘Lead from Behind’ tackles the important topic in an entertaining and approachable

way to help reduce the stigma and break down the barriers to screening,” they noted on their website.

There are video promos of Crews being wheeled in to get his colonoscopy done where he’s talking about “behind” issues and encouraging people to get their screenings done.

“Happy to put my butt on the line for @ leadfrombehind if it means saving many more,” he stated in one Instagram video post. “Do the right thing and get your [behind] checked.”

Crews’ doctor found and removed several suspicious polyps during the screening, and Reynolds’ doctor found a polyp during his screening that was also removed.

Afterward, Reynolds cracked “butt” jokes but turned serious when he talked about how “We want this potentially life-saving procedure to be less mysterious and stigmatized.”

Prescott’s mom battled colon cancer but unfortunately passed away from it in 2013.

Regarding the video he did, Prescott said “If you’ve had prior health issues, something with your stomach, or any other concerns, have anxiety about getting checked, I hope somebody watches that, I hope somebody says, ‘You know, this is easier than I thought.’”

It was. I had my first one in October and the at-home prep really is the toughest part, but even that wasn’t that bad to me. And once you get to your doctor’s office and they get you ready for the procedure, you’re done before you know it.

While celebrities have a wider reach with their platforms, raising awareness starts at home. Even if your loved ones haven’t shown any symptoms, please encourage them about the importance of yearly colonoscopies. It cannot be said enough that doing so saves lives.

North Carolina native Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a media analyst and regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

COLUMN | JENNA A. ROBINSON

COLUMN

Setting the record straight about UNC’s School of Civic Life and Leadership Editor’s note: In the aftermath of UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz leaving for Michigan State, former Chancellor Holden Thorp and former faculty chair Mimi Chapman said he left because the UNC Board of Trustees surprised Chancellor Guskiewicz and his Administration by forcing the new School of Civic Life and Leadership upon him and UNC without any input. Jenna Robinson of The Martin Center for Academic Renewal wrote this following piece on March 20, 2023 detailing the timeline of the process which is printed with her permission.

When news broke that UNC-Chapel Hill had plans to create a new School of Civic Life and Leadership, it was inevitable that there would be some confusion. But nearly two months later, some UNC faculty members and local media outlets have continued to drive a false narrative about the school’s creation and the university’s governance practices.

On Jan. 26, trustees voted to “request that the administration of UNC-CH accelerate its development of a School of Civic Life and Leadership.” The resolution passed unanimously with little discussion.

The following week, at a meeting of Chapel Hill’s Faculty Executive Council, faculty members expressed their disdain for the new program and their distrust of the process. Faculty Chair Mimi Chapman’s comments were representative: “To me, this is a solution in search of a problem, and the way it is happening and the content of what is happening is deeply, deeply troubling.”

At the same meeting, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and Provost Chris Clemens explained that, although the resolution was a surprise, plans to create a new school — a “superstructure” for the Program for Public Discourse — had been in progress since 2017. And, in an email to the whole Carolina community, Guskiewicz wrote, “I appreciate the encouragement of our Board to build on the work we have done”.

Despite these clarifications, faculty, the Daily Tar Heel, and the Raleigh News & Observer have continued to insist that the Board of Trustees has overstepped its authority and that the school is unneeded.

On Feb. 2, professors Buck Goldstein and William Snider called the trustees’ action a “plan to create a new school out of whole cloth.” On February 6, law professor Gene Nichol wrote, “These folks are not ‘trustees.’ They are not ‘governors.’ They are an ‘occupying force’ carrying out a mission.” Former UNC chancellor Holden Thorp tweeted that the new school portends “dark, dark times in Chapel Hill.”

The Daily Tar Heel, UNC-Chapel Hill’s official student newspaper, devoted several news articles to the faculty’s response to the new school. It also published

an editorial by its own editorial board, saying, “[The] School of Civic Life is just another example of ideological combativeness”; a satire lampooning the proposed school; and an op-ed calling incivility in the classroom “a problem that doesn’t exist.” The paper has published just one item, a letter to the editor, in support of the school.

The Raleigh News & Observer has published four pieces editorializing against the school and just one in its favor. In late February, Peter St. Onge, the North Carolina opinion editor for local McClatchy papers (including the News & Observer, Charlotte Observer, and Durham Herald-Sun), declined to run an oped by trustee Perrin Jones clarifying the planning process behind the new school and addressing governance concerns. Jones wanted a chance to publicly address “the concept’s timeline [and] the documented, verifiable involvement of the faculty and administration.”

When the Martin Center reached out on March 15 to ask why the op-ed had been declined, St. Onge wrote, “We didn’t decline the op-ed … [It] is still under consideration. Mr. Jones was told that in an email earlier this month.” Jones originally submitted the oped on February 22.

The Greensboro News & Record, which is not a McClatchy newspaper, published the op-ed on Friday, March 17. It states, “Let’s set the record straight: The UNC-CH Board of Trustees, of which I am a member, did not introduce the idea for the school — the university’s faculty and administration did, over several years. Afterward, our trustees endorsed the idea and urged its acceleration”.

In an email to the Martin Center, Jones said, “I’m grateful that the op-ed was published, but I’m disappointed that the News & Observer and the Charlotte Observer chose not to correct the record for their readers, whom I think deserved better.”

By this time, it should be clear. The board “requested” an “acceleration” of a pre-existing idea that it wanted to support. And as the chancellor wrote, “Any proposed degree program or school will be developed and led by our faculty, deans, and provost.” Questions of governance have been thoroughly addressed.

It’s time to move on. Faculty and media should correct the record and stop arguing about process.

Governance is vitally important, but, in this case, it has served as a distraction from the real issue. If faculty leaders, local media, or campus activists do not like the ideas behind the School of Civic Life and Leadership, they should argue against it on its merits.

Jenna A. Robinson is the president of the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Our antisemitic universities I KNOW A LITTLE BIT about the kinds of speech that are generally welcomed on campus. I’ve been banned from a few campuses, including DePaul University; I’ve spoken at more than a few campuses at which violence broke out over my speeches, including California State University at Los Angeles, Penn State and University of California at Berkeley.

I also know that were I a student at any of these universities — and if I said, as a student, what I routinely say as a speaker — I’d undoubtedly be dragged before the administration and hit with sanctions. I’d be responsible for “microaggressions” by saying things like “Western culture is superior” and “men are not women.” I’d be responsible for “harmful language” for stating that human beings ought to be judged not based on race, but on merit.

But apparently, at the top universities in America, all of those sensitivities disappear for one specific group: Jews.

Last week, House Republicans held a hearing at which the heads of major universities were grilled regarding the rise of antisemitism on their campuses. That increase ranges from threats of violence to near-riots, from tearing down hostage posters to open Jew-hating slurs.

Now, imagine that instead of antisemitism, there had been a radical uptick in anti-black racism on campus: calls for genocide, celebration of terror attacks against black Americans, physical threats. Does anyone think the respective university presidents would have sat, grinning at the lawmakers quizzing them on their actions?

But that’s precisely what happened. Here was Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York questioned the presidents University of Pennsylvania, Harvard University and MIT about genocidal language chanted on campus. None of the three was willing to say directly that calls for genocide against Jews violated university policy. All three said that context was required to answer the question.

One can make the case for free speech on campus — I can and I do — but one cannot pretend that universities protect students against harassment and then soft-pedal Holocaust-level rhetoric. It is difficult to imagine that these icons of sensitivity and diversity, equity and inclusion would be nearly so sanguine about slurs against any other racial or ethnic minority in America.

Simply put, they wouldn’t.

So, why are they so sanguine?

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There are two reasons.

First, the Left — and university presidents are almost the Platonic ideal of intellectual Leftists — believes that Jews are not part of the intersectional coalition of the oppressed.

By Leftist logic, Jews are part of the superstructure of power, since all success is merely a reflection of hierarchies of power, and Jews are disproportionately successful. Thus Jews cannot be victims.

Then there’s the second reason: the hard Left hates Israel. The Left hates Israel because, like American Jews, Israel is too successful in the region in which it is located.

Israel, according to the Left, is a colonialist outpost of the West, and the West is evil because it too is successful — which means that it is exploitative and oppressive. Hence the Left’s rabid attachment to the idea that calls for Israel’s destruction are somehow not anti-Semitic, but actually a reflection of a more universalistic humanitarian creed.

Sure, that creed would actually materialize in the death of millions of Jews and the dominance of radical Muslim terrorism. But that doesn’t matter. After all, Israel is the real problem, because the West is the real problem — and we know that’s true because the West and Israel are successful. According to the Left, radical Muslim regimes that impoverish their citizens aren’t worth one bit of attention. Israel, by contrast, ought to be destroyed.

So, what ought to be done?

First, donors ought to pull their money.

Second, businesses ought to start hiring directly out of high school and stop treating the bizarre credentialing process of major universities as worthwhile. It isn’t. Chances are better that you’ll get a great employee by selecting a high school graduate with 1500 SAT and a 4.0 GPA than by selecting a Harvard graduate with the same statistics.

Finally, parents ought to stop subsidizing this nonsense with their own children.

The universities are corrupt through and through.

Their endorsement of DEI has been a curse to reason and decency. Their politics are vile, and those politics also make the universities corrupt factories of moral depravity. It’s time to end the system.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

MARY ZAHRAN

What Scrooge could teach Biden Joe Biden could learn a lot from Ebenezer Scrooge.

As I watched “A Christmas Carol” recently, it occurred to me that these men have much in common. Both are in positions of power with the ability to affect the lives of others in positive or negative ways. Both are stubborn, convinced that their behavior towards others is justifiable, and therefore they are not required to apologize to anyone or to engage in any introspection.

For Scrooge, this arrogant and inconsiderate treatment of others changes dramatically when he is visited by three spirits one Christmas Eve. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future show him irrefutable evidence of his lifelong disregard for others and the possible unpleasant consequences awaiting him at the end of his life on earth. Scrooge becomes a different man after awakening to his shameful behavior and vows to atone for his sins.

He reconciles with his nephew, gives generously to charities he has ignored for years and makes amends with his muchabused employee Bob Cratchit.

If only Joe Biden had such humility and insight, the world would be a vastly different place right now. While Scrooge was stubborn and self-serving like Biden, his behavior affected only a small group of people. Scrooge may have alienated members of his family and community, but he was in no position to start wars indirectly because of his weakness and his refusal to listen to his advisors. Scrooge may have offended local bankers and business men, but he did not embolden tyrants to invade other countries.

If the Ghost of Biden’s Past were to visit him, what sort of scenes would this spirit show him? Would Biden be reminded of the plagiarism he used as a law student and later as a presidential candidate? Would he see footage of himself spending time with Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, arguably one of the most ardent racists ever to serve in Washington? Would there be video of him schmoozing with some of his son Hunter’s business associates, meetings that Biden has repeatedly insisted never took place?

What kind of scenes would the Ghost of Biden’s Present show the president?

If Biden’s present life is defined as the time he has been in the White House, he will be shown shameful, cringe-worthy moments that a principled person would find unbearable to view. Then again, a principled person would not create moments like these in the first place.

Would Biden be shown the video of our disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, which he described as an “extraordinary success”? Would this footage include Biden’s meeting with military families whose loved ones had been killed in the chaos of this hurried exit? Would he see himself looking at his watch several times during this meeting as if he had another engagement that was more important?

Would he see videos of our southern border and the problems his open-border policies have created? Would he see photos of migrants who drowned trying to get into the country or women and girls who had been raped along the way?

Would Biden see Americans struggling to buy groceries or pay their rent? Would he see copies of bank records revealing lots of “income” for his family in what appear to be suspicious business dealings with foreign countries?

Finally, what would the Ghost of Biden’s Future show him? If it is his journey to the next world to account for himself on Judgement Day, that may be the most interesting image of all.

Biden, a pathological liar, might try to lie his way into heaven, but I think the gatekeeper may have other ideas.

Perhaps we should replace “Scrooge” with “Biden” when describing someone mean-spirited and selfish. After all, Ebenezer Scrooge saw the error of his ways and became a better man. I don’t believe Biden will do the same.

Mary Zahran lives in Fayetteville.

BE IN TOUCH Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607.

Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Murphy to Manteo

Jones & Blount Bradford pivots from treasurer race to run for Congress

NC Commerce Dept updates county tier rankings The North Carolina Department of Commerce released its updated 2024 county tier designations. The designations, which are mandated by state law, play a role in several programs that assist in economic development.

The rankings are based on an assessment of each county’s unemployment rate, median household income, population growth and assessed property value per capita. State law calls for 40 counties to be designated as Tier 1, 40 counties to be designated as Tier 2, and 20 counties to be designated Tier 3.

Tier 1 counties are generally the most economically distressed and Tier 3 counties are generally the least economically distressed.

A total of eight counties will change tier designations for 2024.

Counties moving to a less distressed tier ranking include Burke, Davie, Randolph and Surry.

Counties moving to a more distressed tier ranking include Avery, Beaufort, Gates and Pasquotank.

Tier designations determine eligibility and guidelines for programs such as the One North Carolina Fund, building reuse, and water and sewer infrastructure grants among others. The tier designations also play a role in the state’s performance-based Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) program and utility accounts for infrastructure improvements into more economically distressed areas of the state.

WEST

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

TIER 1 TIER 2 TIER 3

EAST

PIEDMONT

Boone assault suspect flees chase in Ferrari, dives into New River Watauga County Officers with the Boone Police Department responded to Lilly’s Snack Bar on Blowing Rock Road Sunday night with reports of a victim being struck in the forehead with the handle of a handgun, and the suspect having fled in a Ferrari. Soon after the search began, a Watauga County Sheriff’s deputy reportedly located a silver 2023 Ferrari Roma in the parking lot of a gas station.

After entering the store, the deputy located the driver of the Ferrari, 29-yearold Harrison Owen Gilbert Jr., of Stone Mountain, Georgia, a fugitive wanted in both Georgia and New Jersey. Officers say Gilbert was armed and fled from the deputy on foot, entering the New River to evade arrest. He exited the water a brief time later and was placed under arrest after a brief struggle.

QUEEN CITY NEWS

School bus driver arrested for driving students while impaired Catawba County A Catawba County school bus driver was arrested last week for allegedly driving students home while impaired, law enforcement officials reported.

According to a press statement from the N.C. Highway Patrol, troopers received a careless and reckless driving complaint involving the bus driver. Nelson Gonzalez, 54, of Sherrills Ford, was arrested at the scene, troopers said. He was charged with driving while impaired, commercial vehicle driving while impaired, careless and reckless driving and misdemeanor child abuse. Gonzalez was determined to have a blood alcohol content of 0.23, almost three times above the legal limit.

There were 35 students from Sherrills Ford Elementary School onboard the afternoon route, according to information from Catawba County Schools. All students had been safely dropped off at home before intervention by law enforcement, district officials said.

WBTV

Parent company of Gastonia Honey Hunters baseball team files for bankruptcy Gaston County The NC Gas House Gang, owners of the Gastonia Honey Hunters baseball team, filed the case in federal court in Maryland and listed dozens of organizations to whom they owe more than $4 million.

The Honey Hunters, who reached the Atlantic League Championship Series this year in just their third season, were kicked out of the league last month over a debt of nearly $300,000 owed by the team, court documents revealed.

According to local outlets, the City of Gastonia has also sued the team in an attempt to get them out of CaroMont Health Park after they allegedly failed to maintain it. The organization has been accused of failing to pay players, security guards and law enforcement.

NSJ

Wells Fargo ending its long-time sponsorship of Quail Hollow PGA tournament Mecklenburg County Wells Fargo announced Friday it is not renewing the Wells Fargo Championship at Charlotte’s Quail Hollow Club as a Signature Event in 2025 and beyond. The Wells Fargo Championship has generated more than $30 million in support of numerous charitable foundations, the company stated, but a specific reason for why the sponsorship isn’t being renewed was not given. “We are incredibly proud of the 20+ year history of the Championship,” Wells Fargo said in a statement. “The tournament has generated significant local impact and delighted golf fans in Charlotte and across the country.”

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Food bank receives significant boost from Golden LEAF award

Two arrested with 118 pounds of fentanyl-laced cocaine

Rowan County N.C. State Senator Carl Ford announced last week that the Golden LEAF Board of Directors recently voted to award $113,025 to Rowan Helping Ministries, a food bank partner agency, for building construction, a cargo van, and equipment. According to the release, additional storage capacity and equipment will enable the organization to receive, store, and distribute more food. The award to Rowan Helping Ministries was funded by the recent state appropriation to Golden LEAF for the Food Distribution Assistance Program.

This program is funded by federal State Fiscal Recovery Funds through the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. Part of the Golden LEAF Foundation’s mission is to expand the capacity of nonprofits to increase access to food for those in need in the community.

Iredell County The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office is reporting that two people have been arrested for traveling from Charlotte to Philadelphia with more than $3.7 million worth of fentanyl. According to the press release, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Freightliner tractor-trailer on I-77 for a traffic violation. Deputies deployed a canine who is trained in detecting narcotics to sniff the truck of any drugs, and deputies found 118 pounds of fentanyl possibly mixed with cocaine. More than $100,000 was also found in the tractor cab with the two men, who were both arrested for trafficking fentanyl/heroin.

Sheriff Darren Cambell told local outlets that the total street value of the drugs is approximately $3.75 million, and enough fentanyl to kill more than 26 million people.

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Co-workers donate 400+ hours of leave for colleague’s sick child

‘Shop with a Cop” event pairs law enforcement with kids for gift shopping Orange County Some elementary school students in Orange County had a fun last week as the Orange County Sheriff’s Office treated them to shopping at Walmart. According to local officials, the sheriff’s office is one of several agencies in North Carolina to host the annual tradition during the holiday season. On Friday, deputies helped 25 students from four Orange County elementary schools shop at the Walmart at Hampton Point in Hillsborough. The Sheriff’s Office reports that all kids were fitted with coats, hats, and gloves, and all of them were given gift cards and money to spend at the store. Sheriff Charles Blackwood told local news outlets that the event was made possible through support from Walmart, local civic groups, and more than 35 volunteers.

Craven County The staff at a Havelock business have donated leave hours to help aid a fellow coworker whose child was facing a medical crisis. Eric Skaggs who is an employee for Fleet Readiness Center East learned that his daughter Adalyn, 3 was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

Skaggs told local news outlets that the thought of balancing the financial needs along with the six weeks he would need to be out of work in order to care for his daughter during her medical treatments was weighing down on him. His fellow co-workers ended up donating over 400 hours of their available leave time so he could take the time off without the burden of financial issues. According to reports, Skaggs was able to go to Philadelphia and spend this important time with his wife and daughter, Adalyn.

WCTI

WNCN

Driver destroys Christmas Mebane officials vote to deny Buc-ee’s permit

decorations in yard Forsyth County A driver was caught on a neighbor’s doorbell camera crashing into a Forsyth County homeowner’s yard full of Christmas decorations and lights, destroying the display and leaving tire marks across the wreckage. Local outlets report that tire tracks were still visible on David Marks’ front yard off Peace Haven Road in Forsyth County on Monday. Marks said that he estimates the damage to be around $1,000, as the driver hit five inflatables, one Christmas tree and a few candy canes.

As the neighborhood’s “Griswold Award” holder, Marks says the damage is especially disappointing as he and his neighbors won’t get to enjoy the display this year. “I won last year for what I believe is having the most lights. I just love Christmas. It’s just one of those holidays I love to decorate for,” Marks told reporters.

Alamance County More than 30 people signed up to speak to the Planning and Zoning Board in Mebane Monday night, and most of them were against the 32-acre mega-gas station site proposed by Buc-ee’s off Interstate-40 just one exit west of Tanger Outlets. Officials voted to recommend denying the proposal, mainly citing traffic concerns and upgrades to on-ramps, but could still give Buc-ee’s the green light at their Jan. 8 meeting.

According to reports, the meeting lasted over four hours. The mega site would have 600 parking spaces and expect around five million visitors a year. The proposed plan for Mebane would be able to fit more than 18 Sheetz stores inside. The popular chain out of Texas is expanding across the country with previously announced locations in North Carolina.

Marines honored for rescuing family from rip current

Garner hit by EF-1 tornado, causing widespread damage Wake County Representatives from Duke Energy said self-healing grid technology likely played a big role in the limited number of power outages in the aftermath of an EF-1 tornado hit Garner Sunday afternoon. With winds of 110-mph, many neighborhoods retained power even as widespread damage unfolded as the storm moved from west to east through the area.

“It doesn’t repair the damage, but what it does is isolates the problem, so that fewer customers are impacted,” Jeff Brooks, Duke Energy spokesman told local news outlets. The technology can automatically detect when an outage happens, allowing energy to be rerouted to impacted customers. No deaths or injuries have been reported from the storm.

Onslow County Five Marines were honored with the “Red Cross Lifesaving Awards for Professional Responders” after using CPR and other American Red Cross Lifeguard training tactics to save the father and two girls from the rip current. Marine lifeguards Sergeant Jonathan Stuelke, Corporal Byron Martin, Lance Corporal James Scaggs, Sergeant Michael Canzone, and Lance Corporal John Sheppleman spotted a family who got caught in a rip current at Onslow Beach back in August, and went into action. The Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders is the highest award given by the Red Cross to an individual or group of individuals who use American Red Cross Training skills to save or sustain a life.

RALEIGH — State Rep. John Bradford (R-Mecklenburg) offered surprise news on Friday, Dec. 8 during candidate filing at the N.C. State Fairgrounds by announcing he would not be running for state treasurer as he originally planned.

Instead, Bradford told North State Journal he was filing for the 8th Congressional District seat.

“Well, this will be surprising news,” Bradford told North State Journal. “So, I was planning on running for treasurer. But in the last few days, I’ve had more calls about running for United States Congress than I’ve had for running for treasurer since I started running for treasurer.”

“I am actually filing for United States Congress for the 8th District,” said Bradford.

“I live in Mecklenburg County and the district includes part of Mecklenburg County and I do a significant amount of business throughout the 8th District.”

Bradford served four years in the North Carolina House from 2016 to 2018 before losing in the 2018 election to Democrat Christy Clark. He ran again in 2020 and won. He retained the seat again in 2022.

I’m really excited - It feels

really right and, frankly, Washington is broken,” Bradford said. “And I think they need people from the North Carolina General Assembly to do some of the things we’ve done here in Washington and I’m excited to go give it a shot.”

Bradford also served on the Cornelius Town Council for three years.

“I’ve been doing this well over a decade and my reputation in the House is I’m known for getting things done.,” said Bradford. “I’m a business-friendly guy. I’ve helped lead our state’s efforts to lower taxes.”

While in the General Assembly, Bradford noted he has served as senior chairman of the Finance Committee and said “our state’s tax policy has my fingerprints all over it,” and that those are the types of experiences he wants to take to Washington, D.C. Per a press release, Bradford will be loaning his campaign $2 million.

The Republican primary for the seat will be a contest among many aspirants. Also in the race are Charlotte pastor and former Congressional candidate Mark Harris, prominent Concord real estate agent Leigh Brown, Union County Commissioner Allan Baucom and Charlotte attorney Don Brown.

Harrigan, Mills shift to 10th District race after McHenry retirement North State Journal RALEIGH — Two wellknown candidates jumped into the 10th District Republican primary after the surprise retirement announcement of U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry last week.

Pat Harrigan, who ran for Congress in 2022 and appeared to be locked in a race against N.C. House Speaker Tim Moore for the 14th District seat, quickly announced a move north.

“Following Congressman McHenry’s retirement, I’m running for Congress in North Carolina’s 10th District. Join me in fighting for a future that’s true to our values and the America we

cherish,” Harrigan said on X. Harrigan also announced he had hired McHenry’s former campaign manager in the contest.

On Monday, Dec. 11, state Rep. Grey Mills of Iredell County joined the race.

“I have filed to run for the United States Congress to represent my home — North Carolina’s 10th District,” Mills posted on Facebook.

Mills is a veteran of the General Assembly with two separate stints in Raleigh representing parts of Iredell County.

As of Tuesday, Dec. 12, a total of three candidates have filed for the GOP primary. The third candidate is Diana Jimison of Hickory.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

NATION & WORLD

Israel carries out strikes across Gaza targeting Hamas The Associated Press RAFAH, Gaza Strip — Israeli forces carried out strikes across Gaza on Tuesday as the military pressed ahead with an offensive that officials say could go on for weeks or months, even while global calls for a cease-fire leave Israel and its main ally, the United States, increasingly isolated.

The war ignited by Hamas’ Oct. 7 terrorist attack into southern Israel has already brought unprecedented death and destruction to the coastal enclave, with much of northern Gaza obliterated.

Strikes overnight and into Tuesday in southern Gaza — in areas where civilians have been told to seek shelter — killed dozens, according to hospital records.

Israel launched the campaign after Hamas and other militants streamed into the south on Oct. 7, killing some 1,200 people and taking about 240 others hostage, of whom about half remain in captivity. At least 105 Israeli soldiers have died in the Gaza ground offensive, the army says.

Israel’s blockade of the territory — and intense airstrikes and ground fighting that have

made aid nearly impossible to distribute — have led to severe shortages of food, water and other basic goods.

Israel blames civilian casualties on Hamas, saying it positions fighters, tunnels and rocket launchers in dense urban areas, using civilians as human shields.

The U.N. secretary-general and Arab states have rallied much of the international community behind calls for an immediate cease-fire. But the U.S. vetoed those efforts at the U.N. Security Council last week as it rushed tank munitions to Israel to allow it to maintain the offensive.

Israel and the U.S. argue that any cease-fire that leaves Hamas in power, even over a small part of the devastated territory, would mean victory for the militant group, which has governed Gaza since 2007 and has pledged to destroy Israel.

While the U.S. has given wholehearted diplomatic and military support to Israel’s campaign, the two allies are wider apart over the timetable of the war and what comes afterward in Gaza if Hamas is defeated.

The U.S. has also urged Israel to do more to prevent civilian ca-

sualties, but the toll in Gaza has continued to mount.

In a briefing with the AP on Monday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant signaled that the current phase of heavy ground fighting and airstrikes could stretch on for weeks and that further military activity could continue for months.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said he will speak with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about timetables for ending major combat in Gaza when he visits Israel later this week.

Speaking at a forum hosted by the Wall Street Journal, Sullivan said he would also speak to Netanyahu about his recent comments that the Israeli military would maintain an open-ended security control of Gaza after the war ends.

The Biden administration says it does not want to see Israel reoccupy Gaza. It has also called for a return of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority to Gaza and the resumption of peace talks aimed at establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Netanyahu on Tuesday acknowledged “there is disagreement about ‘the day after

Hamas’.” He ruled out a return of Palestinian Authority rule, saying “I will not allow Israel to repeat the mistake of Oslo,” referring to the peace process in the 1990s that created the authority in the West Bank and Gaza and was intended to reach a two-state solution.

Some experts consider Israel’s aim to crush Hamas to be unrealistic, pointing to Hamas’ deep base of support among many Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, who see it as resisting Israel’s half-century of military rule.

Even just destroying Hamas’ military capability “will be a tall order without decimating what remains of Gaza,” said the International Crisis Group, a think tank, in a report over the weekend that also called for an immediate cease-fire.

Israeli officials have said some 7,000 Hamas militants — roughly one-quarter of the group’s estimated fighting force — have been killed and that 500 militants have been detained in Gaza over the past month.

Hamas says it still has thousands of reserve fighters.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah, meanwhile, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel, and other Iranbacked groups across the region have attacked U.S. targets, threatening to widen the conflict. Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have targeted Israeli shipping, attacked a tanker in the Red Sea with no clear ties to the country overnight.

Turkey’s Erdogan accuses the West of ‘barbarism’ and Islamophobia in the war in Gaza Istanbul Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan used a speech on human rights Saturday to accuse the West of “barbarism” for its stance on the Israel-Hamas war and what he alleged was its toleration of Islamophobia.

“Israel has carried out atrocities and massacres that will shame the whole of humanity,” Erdogan told a packed hall in Istanbul.

“All the values relating to humanity are being murdered in Gaza. In the face of such brutality, international institutions and human rights organizations are not taking any concrete steps to prevent such violations,” the Turkish leader said.

Turkey’s human rights record during Erdogan’s two decades in power has come under frequent criticism over the targeting of government critics and political opponents, the undermining of judicial independence and the weakening of democratic institutions.

On Saturday, the president defined Islamophobia and xenophobia, which he said “engulf Western societies like poison ivy,” as the greatest threats to human rights.

Erdogan cited the 2019 attack on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, in which a gunman killed 51 people, as an Islamophobic attack that was “legitimized” and “even encouraged” by the West.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

UN says the Taliban must embrace and uphold human rights obligations in Afghanistan

AP PHOTO

Smoke rises from the Gaza Strip after Israeli strikes on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023.

FIREFIGHTER from page A1

able COVID-19 vaccines.” Allegations include the Town of Knightdale had “wrongfully denied Mr. Lumley’s request for a religious accommodation,” under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and that his subsequent termination was therefore “unlawful.”

The lawsuit also says the town discriminated against Lumley for failing to get vaccinated while relying on “unvaccinated first responders from neighboring jurisdictions, and those first responders were unvaccinated for secular reasons, including medical reasons and personal preference.”

“I think this is a particularly compelling case because the Town not only had an inflexible mandate, granting no exemptions whatsoever, but it also made that decision after forcing employees who wanted an exemption to go through a burdensome application process that proved to be a sham,” Brooks told North State Journal in an email.

The lawsuit underscores a lengthy and invasive religious accommodation process, which the complaint said the town

used as a “tool to dissuade employees from the exercise of their civil rights.”

“The requirements to even apply for a religious accommodation went further than anything I’ve ever seen prior to COVID,” Brooks continued.

“And violated what had been considered settled law -- such as, by seeking third-party confirmation of the applicant’s beliefs (viz., a pastoral reference), when the EEOC had been clear for years that such documentation could not be required.”

Additionally, the lawsuit alleges Lumley’s First and Fourteenth Constitutional amendment rights were violated, as well as the town violating the North Carolina Constitution and a state law barring COVID-19 vaccine mandates for state workers contained under Session Law 2023-134; the most recent state budget.

“The suit is also a useful reminder for North Carolina governmental employers that the state constitution is highly protective of religious liberty,” wrote Brooks. “Even if a municipal employer does satisfy its obligations under Title VII, the state constitution is likely going

to require more.”

The town’s manager, Bill Summers, was a key figure in the denial of Lumley’s request and he took a “no exemptions approach” when it came to the vaccine mandate, per the lawsuit. Notably, Lumley had submitted proof of a prior COVID infection implying natural immunity along with his accommodation request which was apparently ignored by Summers and the town.

“The town manager (Bill Summers) was personally involved in and ratified and approved the denial of Mr. Lumley’s accommodation request as an official act of the town,” the lawsuit states.

Following rejection of his religious accommodation request, Lumley was notified he was being placed “on leave immediately” and informed him he had until Dec. 14, 2021, to get the shot or be fired the same day.

Lumley decided to resign on that date, “under duress,” because the town said it would not pay out accrued vacation time and that employees who did not comply would be ineligible for rehire.

Despite Lumley’s resignation attempt, the lawsuit states, “In

a subsequent letter, the town itself confirmed that it considered Mr. Lumley to have been terminated.”

“It’d be one thing for a small, private employer to be unclear on the law, but this is a municipal entity with legal counsel readily available, and it still apparently thought it could do whatever it wanted,” Brooks wrote. “I look forward to taking discovery to understand how the Town’s internal processes could have fallen apart so badly.”

Lumley, through his attorneys, is seeking various forms of relief from the court, including compensatory damages, back pay, front pay, court costs, and attorney fees.

A permanent injunction on the town to remove derogatory or false information related to the matter from Lumley’s personnel files and requiring the town to conduct training for supervisors and managers on Title VII and related employment laws are also being sought as part of the relief requests.

North State Journal reached out to Knightdale’s mayor and town council for comment on the lawsuit but has not received a response.

Kabul, Afghanistan The Taliban must embrace and uphold human rights obligations in Afghanistan, the U.N. mission in the country said Sunday on Human Rights Day and the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban have erased basic rights and freedoms, with women and girls deeply affected. They are excluded from most public spaces and daily life, and the restrictions have sparked global condemnation.

The U.N. mission, highlighting the Taliban’s failures in upholding rights’ obligations, said it continues to document extrajudicial killings, torture and ill-treatment, corporal punishment, arbitrary arrest and detention, and other violations of detainees’ rights.

People who speak out in defense of human rights face arbitrary arrest and detention, threats and censorship, the mission said.

The head of the U.N. mission in Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, said rights must be upheld to ensure the country’s future prosperity, cohesion and stability.

The Taliban condemned the sanctions. Their chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said imposing pressure and restrictions were not the solution to any problem. He accused the U.S. of being the biggest violator of human rights because of its support for Israel.

“It is unjustified and illogical to accuse other people of violating human rights and then ban them,” said Mujahid.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

A7

normal

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-h hina lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner in orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority America WEEK, virus, according to members ied to tell the world there were only “THIS ISof around the globe and in the United will to pay forTHIS this covered up its spre areStates, havingChina to adjust what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, America rldwide panic, economic collapse and (Psalm catastrophe one way or another.

3,341 related has Some of these orders extend at least through the endindeaths ofit”this mon ce or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need the curve in the novel coronavirus outbrea being thrown out of work.

I know In order to put the crisis causedVirginia’s

by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero go into June. millions of Americans th ne orders ty of at Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask — after all, trends canhas easily ayer least $2.4 trillion in added working from worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, Unitedmuted States over costrever the Here in North Democratic Gov.The Roycrisis Cooper stated dur normal.” questions back tohistory. At least four in the 20th century alone have abided by recommendations and ord Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data, and when things can start getting be glad” t our 231-year be that debt plus trillions more a recent coronavirus press can briefing “we just don’t know yet”asifin nd of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to stay at home; they’ve practiced social d he U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve and dad, the directly traced to China: flu,” 1968 “Hong orders Kong flu,” markets state’s stay-at-home will 1977 extend into May. and financial ou Since when1957 did “Asian They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept flu” without they’ve donned masks. fund any of these emergency have tonot beth th “Russian and the 2002 SARS outbreak.

There is evidence that the currency, would b Perhaps If he does decide to extend it, questions should bewe asked as to We need WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning per stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction in expected hosp Lenten and of rampant inflation and currency pandemic.

1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures without immed justification for it.

And the answers should not be vague ones like “ COVID-19 t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy.

According to theseasons University of Washingto For me, m government There is 100% agreement, outside oftransparency China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must do this out an abundance Easter of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to askin those Metrics and Evaluation model most oftAs ci ant ways and decisions through and honesty originated Wuhan Province probably from the has to pay for th provide a China at all levels It will need tocompletely be explained in detail to the people ofmaking. this state w asked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the Trump administration, the expected need plomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthians Chernobyl. unregulated and unsanitary wet markets.

Some believe it came out of a economic and financial m from our are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined message of become a gue likecentury “we health, country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by over 1 orldones of 21st hygiene affliction, so biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the ci scientific experts amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of c hope that we13,000 will and bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly the num unist regimes never take blame affliction, wi Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalitaria are reliable.

— we need to again enjoy sincere of this state who when will demand August byonce nearly 12,000. orse, because that is not whatthey can get back to providing for their families,their God.” That is what food safety and health protocols, American business has nowhat other or express To know date, what I’ve gone along with the state has asked andregret then they answers.

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

State Republican leaders have, too. living in a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fatal God’sback. examp don’t and when reliability adversaries gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get push asked, there AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society were kedhappens and then with details that give their statements believability. important because it determines whether ent such as the Chernobyl this difficult The most direct way to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer That is, unless an exog they to disaster corruption. The financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat thos church some services questions about We should families, be open or closed,meltdown whether we oughtSome to we pu believe that event, not the Star Warsall continue confident supposed from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a to do what we can to keep our U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least halfdata of their in 1986. what they questioning the and asking when we can start getting and many more that presumes Sponsored

by Union and our communities safe. But we still continue more liberalized society wi Sponsored by should also o the dissolution of theourselves, Soviet In this sam bit of remediation.

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

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Senators in Washingto thing?

That is what free citizens living in a free society were suppo Corruption of Scholarship.”

The study was we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at are people who shape, form.

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We debt we owe them as one wayor toand get analysis health care An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment forgiving $1.2 trw over. of China toon do,half lastof I checked. done

by Areo, an opinion Automotive Parts sick. the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new people have actually died of coronavirus. y have caused the US. Don’t hold your today, or $60 billion, applied to repatriated China to “pay”isfor dam digital magazine. By the way, Areo is short My first American concern asmanufacturing we go along in all this, of course, mythe famil ls become aAreopagitica, badbut askto normal.” number beenbreath overestimated, given th lee” to happen your elected forSupplier acreate speech delivered by investment to the U.S. would costworried the U.S.about Treasury billion in has waiting Ifor a Chin them$18 catching the virus, and I’m worried will.

Afte ty were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patie ountable in21 tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue hold C suffering fromin the H1N1 virusis(swine flu) representatives during the 2009topandem jobs in Columbus Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatical decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan extra we areprecautions, now this disaster. been trying to take because all of this brings County Lindsay and expansion Peter Boghossian say has that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah e, to is my family.

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

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

Even more importantly, we have no clue ation. past. the world like any other But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone hm inDMA academia, especially certain Industries, LLC, awithin supplier 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scientist China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities.

They call of aftermarket automotive and l of this brings up of identified business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that theycases could be an order of ma these fields “grievance studies,” where heavy-duty replacement Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavir senior refer notscholarship to repeat. is not so muchparts, number of people who have had based upon intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and is set to expand and modernize ost everyone hastruth but upon attending to finding replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. its distribution operation in

business & economy Fixingn.c. college corruption FAST

FACTS

A6

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social grievances. Grievance scholars Columbus County, creating bully students, administrators and other 21 new jobs in the state. departments into adhering to their The company is expected worldview.

The worldview they promote is Jason to invest $1.27 million in its Grievance neither scientific nor rigorous.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS warehouse and studies consist ofdistribution disciplines such as facility inanthropology, Tabor City. DMA sociology, gender studies, Industries is asexuality top supplier COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, andto critical race North America’s aftermarket studies. for automotive In replacement 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, and heavy-duty parts. The Lindsay and Boghossian started company’sbogus sales academic channels papers to submitting include Original academic journalsEquipment in cultural, queer, AP PHOTO race, gender, fat and sexuality studies Services (OES) parts for Left, Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, takes part in a discussion at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation tocar determine if they would pass peer dealerships, big-box (APEC) CEO Summit Nov. 16, 2023, in San Francisco. Right, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney leaves a courtroom at the Ninth “THIS IS THEfallen DAYinto the lord has made seriousness of and the be virus and traditional the review accepted for need publication. automotive retailers, WITH MOST place.

I unders Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, Nov. 14,STATES 2022. under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home Acceptance of dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how people who simplyresearch ask that wholesale distribution and orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I editors found sympathetic to their e-commerce retail sales. this challenging tim n thingsjournal can start getting back to are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”I know that during questions about the data, intersectional or lines postmodern DMA’s product include leftist vision working from home or losing a job, it may with contempt.

Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in som ofride-control the world would prove the problem of absorbers be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. as Howev a societylow simply mustshock accept without Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.

They’re treated thou academic standards. struts, strut assemblies, and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded ls us aboutand when it’s safe to begin the Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the govern Several of the fake research papers air suspension systems, and of hopeful for, even alcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful process returning back brake rotors and brake wear Lenten and pandemic. us, and we have journal the right to ask those Studies published a hoax paper state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government w Since when did sensors, coil springs and fuel that argued the term was me, my faith is an important part o home orders are in place all bodybuilding over the Easter seasons If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked asFor to the questions.

And the longer pumps, among many others. questioning andas should be replaced making.

As I celebrated Easter with my f hem get exclusionary inThe states, such Michigan, Just before the Play Store three years ago, alleging that The Associated Press win“we for all app developers justification for it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like country, and and the stricter provide company continues with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our eeling isolated and/or anxious about trial started, Google sought to the internet search giant has consumers around the world.” must do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sittingLo a to have significant growthOne reviewer message of politicized performance.” avoid having a jury determine been abusing its power to shield Google plans appeal the SAN FRANCISCO — A fedaffliction, so that wetomay becan able toback comfo ng for their families, will demand and has been recognized by at all levels It will need to be explained in detailhope to the people of this state who when they get t said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this we to will have its verdict,with according to a stateeral court jury has decided that its Play Store from competition the outcome, that affliction, the comfort which we our “Business North Carolina” in being told to remain jobless and at homeonly for an undetermined answers. article and believe it has an important become a has inare request rejected by U.S. Disorder to protect a gold mine ment from Wilson White, the Google’s Android app store once again enjoy itsbe NCFast40 of largest God.” vels should as forthcoming contribution tolist make to as thethey field and this amount of time whyofmodels hundreds of thousands of cases viceLeaders at the trict Judge James Donato. company’s makes billions dollars predicting president of local an been protected bything? anticompet- that bad growing Mid-Cap companies sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter season again, not vague answers, but answer journal.” are reliable. can beand with those answer Now it will be up to Donato to annually.

Just as Apple does itive barriers that have damgovernment affairs public for theStruggle last six years “Our Is Mystraight.

Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect on this message and be comforted ents believability. concerts, family date, I’ve withdetermine what the state asked and then with details that give the whathas steps Google its iPhone appgone store,along Google aged smartphone consumers for To policy.

“DMA started its operations Reply to Feminism as anfamilies, Intersectional God’sabout example comfort in n hat we can to keep our will have to take to unwind a commission ranging and softwarefree developers, deal- collects “Android and andWe Google Play citizens mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions shouldall allthose continue gatherings, inshould Tabor City years ago with Neoliberal and Feminism,” was this difficult time.

Through faith and by h afe. But we also15Choice still continue its illegal behavior in the Play from 15% to 30% on digital ing a blow to living a majorinpillar of a provide more choice and openthe data. State Republican leaders have, too. services ourselves, and our comm church a free accepted byatAffilia, the helpfor of apublication lot of people the a Store.

The judge indicated he transactions completed within technology empire. ness than any other major moconfident we will emerge out of this pand ecause while reasonable stay-at-home Unfortunately, when certain types ofand questions get asked, there is to ask questions about th feminist journal forstate social workers. The local, county and level,” many more society were will hold hearings on the issue Inbile The unanimous verdict apps. platform,” White said. this same spirit, I continue to be ins y shouldpaper also have an expiration sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those measures are understand consisted in part adate. rewritten said President and CEOofJohn during the second week of JanApple prevailed in a similar reached Monday came after Depending on how the judge after our own supposed neighbors helping neighbors. nd it is not normal.

Not in any way, passage from Mein Kampf.

Two other simply the data and asking when we can start getting backthe jury’s This is allGoonew to Amer Treece. “We are a testimony uary. thatquestioning Epic brought against just three hours of delibera- case temporary Inenforces Concord, a highverdict, school senior name d remainhoax vigilant and safe, at papers were published, including last I tri- the to normal as though theythat are conspiracy theorists are people who to what can bestay achieved when Epic CEO Tim orSweeney iPhone app store. But tion followingtoa do, four-week gle could lose shape, billionsor of form. dollarsSo while “Rape and Queer Performativity money to buyprofit a 3-D printer and plastic to mfortable withCulture this so-called “new sacrifices are after people come together and otherwise don’t careby if they themselves or others sick.the thegenerated same time we should into a wide grin trial was decided a fed-getbroke al revolving around a lucrative 2021 in annual from checked. atpursue Urban aDog Parks.”goal.

ThisWe paper’s health care workers out of his own home. common are subject verdict was read and slapped judgewhen in a ruling that is unpayment system within Goo- eralSince Play Store commissions.

The did questioning government a bad normal.” over. at all levels becomeits was dog-on-dog rape.

Buthome the dog rape proud to call Tabor City hisliving lawyers on the back were and supposed appeal at the U.S. Supreme gle’s Play Store. The store is the der company’s mainNot source of rev-bit. thing?

That is what free citizens in a free society one little paper eventually Boghossian, and to continue forced to support a also shook the hand of a Google enue — digital advertising tied main place where hundreds of Court. to do, last I checked.

Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out The nine-person jury in the attorney, whom he thanked for mostly to its search engine, community that continues to millions of people around the under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m Stacey Matthews has also themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer world download and install Play Store case apparently saw his professional attitude during Gmail and other services — support us.” dState and Legal Insurrection. had figured out what they were doing. worried aboutathem catching and I’m worried I will.won’t Afterbe directly andaffected is a regular thevirus, proceedings. different lens, the apps that work on smartphones things through by the contribu Some papers accepted for publication suffering fromGoogle the H1N1 virus (swine flu) over during the 2009 “Victory Google!”

Swee-pandemic, though technipowered by Google’s Android even trial’s outcome. in academic journals advocated training I’ve been trying to take extra all X, of this ney wrote inbecause a post on the brings cally allows Android apps to precautions, software.

Theup jury reached its decision men like dogs and punishing white male platform formerly I’d known as downloaded from different Epic Games, the maker of the be after listening to two hours of way too many memories of a painful experience prefer not to repeat.

Residential siding college students for historical slavery by company an option that Apple popular Fortnite video game, stores But—what also makes me loseTwitter. sleep is In howa easily mostpost, everyone has asking them to sit in silence in manufacturer to on the floorfiled Epic hailed the verdict as “a See ANTITRUST, page A11 a lawsuit against Google prohibits on the iPhone. chains during class and to be expected to expand with $14 Other papers learn from the discomfort. y celebrated morbid obesity million investmentasina healthy life choice and advocated treating privately Catawba County as a form of conducted masturbation sexual violence against women. Typically, s academic Millwork journal & Paneleditors LLC, send submitted papers out to referees a residential siding for review. In recommending manufacturer,acceptance announced for lastpublication, many these papers weekreviewers that it willgave be creating 48 glowing praise. new jobs in Catawba County.

Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran The company will be investing certain grievance studies concepts through more than $14.3 million over The Associated Press the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often the next three years to expand they appeared in our press over the years. its vinyl siding operations in the NEW YORK — The heads He found huge increases in the usages of Wall Street’s biggest banks City of Clermont. An indirect of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” used an appearance on Capsubsidiary of CertainTeed “critical race theory” and “whiteness.” itol Hill last week to plead Holding Corporation since All of this is being taught to college with senators to stop the 2019, Millwork & Panel students, many of whom become primary Biden administration’s proproduces maintenance-free and secondary school teachers who then posed changes to how banks siding and trim various indoctrinate our in young people. are regulated, warning that materials, styles and textures I doubt whether the coronavirusthe new proposals could negfor thefinancial residential housing caused crunch will give college atively impact the economy at market.

This expansion will who are a and university administrators, a time of geopolitical turmoil add new state-of-the-art vinyl crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, and inflation. extrusion the guts andproduction backbone lines, to restore academic Wall Street’s most powrespectability.

Far toooperations often, they get much improving blending erful bankers have reguofand their political support from campus expanding the capacity larly appeared in front of grievance people“By whoenhancing are members of the for vinyl siding.

Congress going back to the faculty and diversity and multicultural our production capacity and 2008 financial crisis. Among administrative upgrading keyoffices. equipment to those testifying before the The best hopeand liesenergy with boards of ensure quality Senate Banking Committee trustees, though many serve as yes-men efficiency, we are reaffirming included JPMorgan’s Jamie forour thecommitment university president. a to provideI think that Dimon, Bank of America’s good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s top-quality vinyl siding Brian Moynihan, Jane Frascatalogs. Look at the course offerings at er of Citigroup and Goldman materials to our customers,” a time when college graduates knew how Sachs’ David Solomon. said Joe Bondi, President of to read, write and compute, and make Whereas in previous years Millwork & Panel. “Thank you them today’s curricula. Another helpful the bank CEOs used the hearto the entire team in Claremont tool would be to give careful consideration ing to highlight the industry’s your work all to make this tofor eliminating classes/majors/minors project a reality, and“studies,” a specialsuch as good deeds, this year they containing the word warned about the potential thank you to the State North women, Asian, black or of queer studies. dangers of over-regulating Carolina, Catawba County, I’d bet that by restoring the traditional the industry. the City of Claremont, and thethey would AP PHOTO academic mission to colleges, The banks are adamantly North Carolina put a serious dentCommunity into the COVID-19 against a number of proposed Charles W. Scharf, CEO and President, Wells Fargo & Company; Brian Thomas Moynihan, College System for your budget shortfall. regulations that could hit Chairman and CEO, Bank of America; Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO, JPMorgan Chase & Co.; hospitality over the years and their profitability, including Jane Fraser, CEO, Citigroup; Ronald O’Hanley, CEO, State Street; Robin Vince, CEO, BNY Mellon; Walter E. Williams is a professor of support for this project.” new rules from the Federal David Solomon, CEO, Goldman Sachs; and James P. Gorman, CEO, Morgan Stanley, testify during economics at George Mason University. a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee oversight hearing to examine Wall See BANKS, page A10 Street firms on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Washington, D.C.

VISUAL VOICES

It’s okay to ask questions about when The comfort and ho we begin to get back to normal

Epic Games wins antitrust lawsuit against Google over barriers to its Android app store

CEOs of the nation’s biggest banks warn that new regulations could harm the economy

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

A10 NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING DEC 10

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

$1,994,863,871 Add Receipts

$305,158,848 Less Disbursements

$200,161,066 Reserved Cash

$125,000,000 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$5,935,224,322 Loan Balance

$0 BANKS from page A9

Reserve that would require big banks to hold additional capital on their balance sheets. The industry says the new regulations, known as the Basel Endgame, would curtail lending and weaken bank balance sheets at a time when the industry needs more flexibility.

There are also proposals coming from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau that would rein in overdraft fees, which have also been a longtime source of revenue for the consumer banks.

“I’ve been at this for a long time. I’ve sat on the board of the New York Federal Reserve. I’ve seen a lot of rules, and (this proposal) just doesn’t make sense,” said James Gorman, CEO of Morgan Stanley, in response to a question.

The other seven CEOs were uniform in their comments in both their prepared remarks and answers to Senators’ questions. “(The regulations) were not thoughtfully done and should be relooked at,” Dimon said.

The industry’s opposition has saturated the Washington media market over the last several weeks, which came up in senators’ remarks during the hearing.

“You should stop pouring money into lobbying against efforts to protect the taxpayers who subsidize your entire industry,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio and the committee chairman.

Brown, a longtime big bank critic, is unlikely to be persuaded by the CEOs’ comments. Instead the CEOs were aiming to reach more moderate Democratic members of the committee. Only a handful of Democrats asked questions in support of the new regulations, while most Republicans did appear to be against the rules.

Even Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, who typically is among the most combative with Dimon and the other CEOs at these hearings, avoided the topic. Warren asked the CEOs for support for her cryptocurrency anti-money laundering bill. Longtime critics of crypto, the CEOs were more than happy to publicly support her bill.

One Republican notably did seem skeptical about the CEOs’ messages. Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio used his time to ask the CEOs why their banks support public policy positions like gun control, voter ID laws and other bills, but then want to turn to the GOP for less regulation and lower taxes when it suits them.

This year has been a tough one for the banking industry, as high interest rates have caused banks and consumers to seek fewer loans and consumers are facing financial pressure from inflation. Three larger banks failed this year — Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic Bank — after the banks experienced a run on deposits and questions about the health of their balance sheets.

It is partly because of the bank runs at Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic this year that regulators have proposed more stricter regulations for banks with assets over $100 billion.

US consumer inflation eased slightly last month as gas prices fell, though some costs kept surging The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. inflation ticked down again last month, with cheaper gas helping further lighten the weight of consumer price increases in the United States.

At the same time, the latest data on consumer inflation showed that prices in some areas — services such as rents, restaurants and auto insurance — continued to rise uncomfortably fast.

Tuesday’s report from the Labor Department said the consumer price index rose just 0.1% from October to November. Compared with a year earlier, prices were up 3.1% in November, down from a 3.2% year-over-year rise in October.

But core prices, which exclude volatile food and energy costs, rose 0.3% from October to November, slightly faster than the 0.2% increase the previous month. Measured from a year ago, core prices rose 4%, the same as in October. The Federal Reserve considers core prices to be a better guide to the future path of inflation.

The stickiness of inflation in the economy’s service sector will likely keep the Federal Reserve on guard as it meets this week. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has been scrutinizing such costs as a guide to whether underlying inflationary trends are cooling.

Services prices for such items as hotels, health care and entertainment are heavily determined by wages because they are labor-intensive. And wages are still rising rapidly, though they’ve eased from pandemic-era peaks.

Restaurant prices are an example. They rose 0.4% from

AP PHOTO

In this image made with a long exposure, motorists move along Interstate 76 ahead of the Thanksgiving Day holiday in Philadelphia, Nov. 22, 2023.

October to November for a third straight month, leaving them 5.3% more expensive than they were a year earlier.

Rents are also fueling inflation: They accelerated from October to November. (Real-time data from companies like Zillow and ApartmentList, though, suggest that apartment rent growth is slowing.)

Gas prices tumbled 6% just from October to November.

From a peak of $5 about a year and a half ago, the national average has dropped to $3.15 a gallon as of Monday, according to AAA. And grocery prices ticked up just 0.1% in November and are only 1.7% higher than they were a year ago. Bread, beef, chicken and pork prices all

dropped.

Many goods prices, including furniture, clothing and appliances, fell last month. Used cars were an exception. Their average prices jumped 1.6% in November, though they’re still down nearly 4% from 12 months earlier.

The mixed picture in Tuesday’s inflation report will likely keep the Fed on track to leave its benchmark interest rate unchanged when its latest meeting ends Wednesday. Inflation still exceeds the Fed’s 2% annual target, which is why its officials are set to leave rates high. But with inflation cooling faster than expected, the Fed’s policymakers likely see no cause to further raise rates, at least for now.

The Fed’s widely expected decision to keep its key rate unchanged for a third straight time suggests that it’s probably done raising borrowing costs.

The central bank has raised its key rate to about 5.4%, the highest level in 22 years, in a determined drive to conquer inflation. Its rate hikes have made mortgages, auto loans, business borrowing and other forms of credit much costlier, reflecting the Fed’s goal of slowing borrowing and spending enough to tame inflation.

Even if the central bank is done raising rates, it’s expected to keep its benchmark rate at a peak for at least several more months. Powell has even warned that the Fed might decide to raise rates again if it deems it necessary to defeat high inflation. The Fed raised its key short-term rate 11 times starting in March 2022.

According to a lesser-known inflation gauge that the Fed prefers, core prices rose 3.5% in October compared with 12 months earlier. That was less than the central bank’s forecast of 3.7% for the final three months of this year.

Inflation’s steady decline has sparked speculation about interest rate cuts next year, with some economists floating the potential for cuts as early as March. The Fed’s preferred inflation gauge has increased at an annual pace of just 2.5% in the past six months.

But Powell has so far brushed aside the idea that the Fed might cut rates anytime soon. He is expected to say so again Wednesday.

“It would be premature,” Powell said earlier this month, “to speculate” on the possibility of Fed rate cuts.

Speculation about eventual rate cuts is rising, but Fed is set to leave interest rates unchanged The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — With inflation edging closer to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, its policymakers are facing — and in some cases fueling — hopes that they will make a decisive shift in policy and cut interest rates next year, possibly as soon as spring.

Such a move would reduce borrowing costs across the economy, making mortgages, auto loans and business borrowing less expensive. Stock prices could rise, too, though share prices have already risen in expectation of cuts, potentially limiting any further rise.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell, though, has recently downplayed the idea that rate reductions are nearing. With the central bank poised to keep its key short-term rate unchanged when it meets this week, Powell hasn’t yet signaled that the Fed is conclusively done with its hikes. Speaking recently at Spelman College in Atlanta, the Fed chair cautioned that “it would be premature to conclude with confidence” that the Fed has raised its benchmark rate high enough to fully defeat inflation.

But the Fed’s two-day meeting that ends Wednesday will mark the third straight time that its officials have kept their key rate unchanged, lending weight to the widespread assumption that rate hikes are over.

The economy, after all, is headed in the direction the Fed wants: On Tuesday, when the government releases the November inflation report, it’s expected to show that annual consumer price increases slowed to 3.1%, according to a survey of economists by FactSet, down sharply from a peak of 9.1% in June 2022.

And job openings have declined, which means companies are less desperate to hire and feel less pressure to sharply raise wages, which can accelerate inflation. Consumers are still spending, though more modestly, and the economy is still expanding.

AP PHOTO

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is introduced at the Jacques Polak Research Conference at the International Monetary Fund, Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, in Washington, D.C. Such trends suggest progress toward what economists call a “soft landing,” in which inflation reaches the Fed’s 2% target without causing a recession. Analysts are increasingly encouraged by what they say is an unusually smooth adjustment to lower inflation.

That sunnier outlook represents a shift in thinking. Last year, many economists had insisted that defeating inflation would require a sharp recession and high unemployment. In fact, falling inflation, without an accompanying recession or job losses, is “historically unprecedented,” economists at Goldman Sachs wrote in a recent note.

Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, said in an interview with The Associated Press last month that the United States is on track this year for the fastest annual drop in inflation on record. If so, Goolsbee said, the result could be a “bigger soft landing than conventional wisdom believes has ever been possible.”

That said, a soft landing is hardly a sure thing. If, for example, the Fed miscalculated and kept interest rates too high for too long, it could eventually de-

rail the economy and tip it into a recession.

“There’s more risk of a recession than a re-acceleration in inflation at these interest rates,” said Julia Coronado, president of MarcoPolicy Perspectives, an economic research firm. “So ultimately, the next move is likely to be a cut because of that.”

The timing of any rate cuts will depend on the health of the economy. A recession — or the threat of one — would likely prompt more, and earlier, interest rate reductions by the Fed. Yet Friday’s jobs report for November showed that businesses are still adding jobs at a healthy pace, and the unemployment rate dropped to a low 3.7% from 3.9%. Such figures suggested that the most-anticipated recession in decades is not imminent.

Investors have since pushed back their expectations for the first Fed rate cut from March to May. The Fed could cut rates this year even if the economy plows ahead, as long as inflation kept falling. A steady slowdown in price increases would have the effect of raising inflation-adjusted interest rates, thereby making borrowing costs higher than the Fed intends. Reducing rates, in

this scenario, would simply keep inflation-adjusted borrowing costs from rising.

Yet economists say any rate cuts in response to lower inflation may take longer than Wall Street expects because the Fed will want to be sure inflation is in check before making such a move.

Jim Bullard, former president of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and now dean of Purdue University’s business school, said that while he thinks the Fed is on track for a soft landing, the policymakers must be cautious about rate cuts.

“I don’t think you want to be too early on that, because if you start the process of cutting the policy rate and then inflation goes back up, I think that could cause a lot of problems,” Bullard said. Such premature cuts have been blamed for the Fed’s failure to quell inflation in the 1970s.

And if job gains and economic growth remain healthy, then perhaps rate cuts aren’t needed anytime soon, Bullard added.

“Why lower the policy rate if the real economy is doing just fine?” he asked. “You might as well just sit back and enjoy the disinflation.”

Either way, when the Fed issues its quarterly economic projections Wednesday, they will include a forecast of where its policymakers think their key rate will be at the end of 2024.

Coronado expects only two rate cuts to be penciled in — half the number that financial markets now expect.

If the Fed does cut rates twice in 2024, the first one may not occur until as late as fall. Nancy Vanden Houten, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics, says her firm doesn’t expect the first rate cut until the third quarter of the year.

“The Fed is going to want to see a bit more progress before contemplating rate cuts,” she said. “Financial markets have gotten pretty ahead of themselves in our view. We think rate hikes are done, but it’s going to be many months before the Fed starts cutting rates.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Europe reaches a deal on the world’s first comprehensive AI rules The Associated Press LONDON — European Union negotiators clinched a deal Friday on the world’s first comprehensive artificial intelligence rules, paving the way for legal oversight of AI technology that has promised to transform everyday life and spurred warnings of existential dangers to humanity.

Negotiators from the European Parliament and the bloc’s 27 member countries overcame big differences on controversial points including generative AI and police use of face recognition surveillance to sign a tentative political agreement for the Artificial Intelligence Act. “Deal!” tweeted European Commissioner Thierry Breton just before midnight. “The EU becomes the very first continent to set clear rules for the use of AI.” The result came after marathon closed-door talks this week, with the initial session lasting 22 hours before a second round kicked off Friday morning.

Officials were under the gun to secure a political victory for the flagship legislation. Civil society groups, however, gave it a cool reception as they wait for technical details that will need to be ironed out in the coming weeks. They said the deal didn’t go far enough in protecting people from harm caused by AI systems.

“Today’s political deal marks the beginning of important and necessary technical work on crucial details of the AI Act, which are still missing,” said Daniel Friedlaender, head of

AP PHOTO

The OpenAI logo is displayed on a cell phone with an image on a computer monitor generated by ChatGPT’s Dall-E textto-image model, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Boston. the European office of the Computer and Communications Industry Association, a tech industry lobby group.

The EU took an early lead in the global race to draw up AI guardrails when it unveiled the first draft of its rulebook in 2021. The recent boom in generative AI, however, sent European officials scrambling to update a proposal poised to serve as a blueprint for the world.

The European Parliament will still need to vote on the act early next year, but with the deal done that’s a formality, Brando Benifei, an Italian lawmaker co-leading the body’s negotiating efforts, told The As-

sociated Press late Friday.

“It’s very very good,” he said by text message after being asked if it included everything he wanted. “Obviously we had to accept some compromises but overall very good.” The eventual law wouldn’t fully take effect until 2025 at the earliest, and threatens stiff financial penalties for violations of up to 35 million euros ($38 million) or 7% of a company’s global turnover.

Generative AI systems like OpenAI’s ChatGPT have exploded into the world’s consciousness, dazzling users with the ability to produce human-like text, photos and songs

but raising fears about the risks the rapidly developing technology poses to jobs, privacy and copyright protection and even human life itself.

Now, the U.S., U.K., China and global coalitions like the Group of 7 major democracies have jumped in with their own proposals to regulate AI, though they’re still catching up to Europe.

Strong and comprehensive rules from the EU “can set a powerful example for many governments considering regulation,” said Anu Bradford, a Columbia Law School professor who’s an expert on EU law and digital regulation. Other countries “may not copy every provision but will likely emulate many aspects of it.”

AI companies subject to the EU’s rules will also likely extend some of those obligations outside the continent, she said.

“After all, it is not efficient to retrain separate models for different markets,” she said.

The AI Act was originally designed to mitigate the dangers from specific AI functions based on their level of risk, from low to unacceptable. But lawmakers pushed to expand it to foundation models, the advanced systems that underpin general purpose AI services like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard chatbot.

Foundation models looked set to be one of the biggest sticking points for Europe. However, negotiators managed to reach a tentative compromise early in the talks, despite opposition led by France, which called instead for self-regulation to help homegrown European generative AI companies competing with big U.S rivals, including OpenAI’s backer Microsoft.

Also known as large language models, these systems are trained on vast troves of written works and images scraped off the internet. They give generative AI systems the ability to create something new, unlike traditional AI, which processes data and completes tasks using predetermined rules.

A11 The companies building foundation models will have to draw up technical documentation, comply with EU copyright law and detail the content used for training. The most advanced foundation models that pose “systemic risks” will face extra scrutiny, including assessing and mitigating those risks, reporting serious incidents, putting cybersecurity measures in place and reporting their energy efficiency.

Researchers have warned that powerful foundation models, built by a handful of big tech companies, could be used to supercharge online disinformation and manipulation, cyberattacks or creation of bioweapons.

Rights groups also caution that the lack of transparency about data used to train the models poses risks to daily life because they act as basic structures for software developers building AI-powered services.

What became the thorniest topic was AI-powered face recognition surveillance systems, and negotiators found a compromise after intensive bargaining.

European lawmakers wanted a full ban on public use of face scanning and other “remote biometric identification” systems because of privacy concerns. But governments of member countries succeeded in negotiating exemptions so law enforcement could use them to tackle serious crimes like child sexual exploitation or terrorist attacks.

Rights groups said they were concerned about the exemptions and other big loopholes in the AI Act, including lack of protection for AI systems used in migration and border control, and the option for developers to opt-out of having their systems classified as high risk.

“Whatever the victories may have been in these final negotiations, the fact remains that huge flaws will remain in this final text,” said Daniel Leufer, a senior policy analyst at the digital rights group Access Now.

UN cuts global aid appeal to $46 billion to help 180 million in 2024 as it faces funding crisis The Associated Press NEW YORK — The United Nations is targeting fewer people and seeking less money in its 2024 global humanitarian appeal launched on Monday as it grapples with a severe funding crisis.

U.N. humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths told the launch that the U.N. has cut its appeal to $46 billion, to help 180 million people with food and other essential aid despite escalated needs.

The reduction was made after the U.N. received just over onethird of the $57 billion it sought to held 245 million people this year, “making this the worst funding shortfall … in years,” Griffiths said.

Through “a heroic effort,” 128 million people worldwide received some form of assistance this year, but that means 117 million people did not, he added.

Almost 300 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance and protection in 2024 — a figure that would amount

ANTI TRUST from page A9

closing arguments from the lawyers on the opposing sides of the case.

Epic lawyer Gary Bornstein depicted Google as a ruthless bully that deploys a “bribe and block” strategy to discourage competition against its Play Store for Android apps. Google lawyer Jonathan Kravis attacked Epic as a self-interested game maker trying to use the courts to save itself money while undermining an ecosystem that has spawned billions of Android smartphones to compete against Apple and its iPhone.

Much of the lawyers’ dueling arguments touched upon the testimony from a litany of witnesses who came to court

to the population of an entire country that would rank as the fourth most populous nation, after India, China and the United

States.

Griffiths pointed to new and resurgent conflicts as adding to the need for aid, including

the latest Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, as well as Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, the fighting between rival military leaders in Sudan, and the civil wars in Yemen and Syria, where the World Food Program will end its main assistance program in January.

He also cited the global climate emergency, disease outbreaks and “persistent, unequal economic pressures.”

Griffiths said there are more displaced people since the beginning of the century, and that nearly one in five children live in or fleeing from conflict. He said 258 million people face “acute food insecurity or worse,” and that there have been deadly cholera outbreaks in 29 countries.

U.N. and government efforts — including in Somalia where rains also played a key role in averting famine this year — helped provide aid but Griffiths said the “severe and ominous funding crisis” meant the U.N. appeal, for the first time since 2010s received less money in 2023 than the previous year.

Around 38% of those targeted

during the trial.

The key witnesses included Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who sometimes seemed like a professor explaining complex topics while standing behind a lectern because of a health issue, and Sweeney, who painted himself as a video game lover on a mission to take down a greedy tech titan.

In his closing argument for Epic, Bornstein railed against Google for exploiting its power over the Android software in a way that “has led to higher prices for developers and consumers, as well as less innovation and quality.”

Google has staunchly defended the commissions as a way to help recoup the more than $40 billion that it has poured

into building into the Android software that it has been giving away since 2007 to manufacturers to compete against the iPhone.

“Android phones cannot compete against the iPhone without a great app store on them,” Kravis asserted in his closing argument. “The competition between the app stores is tied to the competition between the phones.”

But Bornstein ridiculed the notion of Google and Android competing against Apple and its incompatible iPhone software system. “Apple is not the ‘get out of jail for free’ card that Google wants it to be,” Bornstein told the jury.

Google also pointed to rival Android app stores such as the

one that Samsung installs on its popular smartphones as evidence of a free market. Combined with the rival app stores pre-installed on devices made by other companies, more than 60% of Android phones offer alternative outlets for Android apps.

Epic, though, presented evidence asserting the notion that Google welcomes competition as a pretense, citing the hundreds of billions of dollars it has doled out to companies, such as game maker Activision Blizzard, to discourage them from opening rival app stores. Besides making these payments, Bornstein also urged the jury to consider the Google “scare screens” that pop up, warning consumers of potential security

AP PHOTO

Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths speaks during a UN Security Council meeting, July 21, 2023, at the United Nations headquarters.

did not get the aid “we aim to provide.”

In Afghanistan, 10 million people lost access to food assistance between May and November and in Myanmar, more than half a million people were left in inadequate living conditions. In Yemen, more than 80% of people targeted for assistance do not have proper water and sanitation while in Nigeria, only 2% of the women expecting sexual and reproductive health services received it.

Griffiths said donor contributions to the U.N. appeal have always gone up, but this year “it’s flattened ... because the needs have also grown.”

Griffiths told the launch of the appeal in Doha, Qatar, that the world body fears the worst for next year and has looked at “life-saving needs as the overwhelming priority.”

He appealed, on behalf of more than 1,900 humanitarian partners around the world, for $46 billion for 2024 and asked donors “to dig deeper to fully fund” the appeal.

threats when they try to download Android apps from some of the alternatives to the Play Store.

“These are classic anticompetitive strategies used by dominant firms to protect their monopolies,” Bornstein said.

Google’s empire could be further undermined by another major antitrust trial in Washington that will be decided by a federal judge after hearing final arguments in May. That trial has cast a spotlight on Google’s cozy relationship with Apple in online search, the technology that turned Google into a household word a few years after two former Stanford University graduate students started the company in a Silicon Valley garage in 1998.

A12

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Labor union asks federal regulators to oversee South Carolina workplace safety program The Associated Press COLUMBIA, S.C. — One of the largest labor organizations in the United States petitioned the federal government last week to wrest workplace safety oversight from South Carolina regulators accused of failing to protect service employees.

South Carolina is one of 22 states allowed to run its own ship when it comes to enforcing occupational safety in most private businesses — as long as the programs are “at least as effective” as their federal counterpart.

Service Employees International Union argues that is not the case in South Carolina, where its lawyer says a subpar enforcement program and “skeletal inspection force” are preventing real accountability.

“Make our workplace safe. Because y’all need us at the end of the day,” said Shae Parker, a former Waffle House employee who spoke Thursday at a Union of Southern Service Workers rally.

Workers with the group, an SEIU affiliate that grew out of the Fight for $15 campaign’s southern branch, have been mobilizing colleagues across fast food chains, retail stores and warehouses to push for stronger protections. The USSW backed complaints this summer from Waffle House staff in South Carolina’s capital city over a faulty air-conditioning system and other concerns. Parker said heat exhaustion grew so severe among

AP PHOTO

Shae Parker, a former Waffle House employee, rallies fellow Union of Southern Service Workers members outside the State House in Columbia, S.C. on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023. cooks and servers that someone vomited.

The USSW sent multiple follow-ups about the location’s conditions to the South Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Administration before getting a conference that ended in five minutes, the petition said, an example of the state program’s “overt hostility.”

The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and

Regulation said in a statement that the state plan follows federal enforcement procedures, and works with groups — including the USSW — to provide free safety and health trainings.

“South Carolina OSHA is a proud State Plan and is fully committed to its mission of making South Carolina a safe place to work and live for all employees,” said Lesia Kudelka, the agency’s communications director.

Organizers also said in the Dec. 7 filing to the U.S. Labor Department that the state does not carry out enough inspections. South Carolina ran fewer inspections than expected by federal regulators in four of the five years from 2017-2022. The totals fitting for a state economy of its size fell 50% below federal expectations in 2018, according to the petition.

South Carolina conducted 287

inspections in 2022, or about 1.9 for every 1,000 establishments — a figure the organization said is less than one-third the rate in the surrounding states of North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, as well as the national average.

Furthermore, serious safety violations recently carried weaker sanctions in South Carolina than required, SEIU said. The state’s average penalty of $2,019 for all private sector employers in fiscal year 2022 fell below the national average of $3,259, according to the union.

The Republican-led state is challenging recent federal penalty increases, though a federal court dismissed its case earlier this year.

Thursday’s filing marked labor groups’ latest challenge to the South Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Administration. A civil rights complaint filed by USSW in April accused the agency of racial discrimination by failing to routinely inspect workplaces with disproportionately large numbers of Black employees.

The groups hope federal pressure will compel changes like those seen recently in Arizona.

The southwestern state adopted new standards — including laws to ensure maximum and minimum penalties align with federal levels — after the U.S. Department of Labor announced its reconsideration of the Arizona State OSHA plan last year.

Toyota teaming with Cirba Solutions to expand battery recycling network The Associated Press TOYOTA MOTOR North America is teaming with battery recycling materials and management company Cirba Solutions to expanding its battery recycling network.

Toyota said Thursday that its battery collection efforts will include those from hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles.

Toyota’s collaboration with Cirba Solutions will focus on the collection, transportation, dismantling and processing of end-of-life lithium-ion electrified vehicle batteries from the Midwest and East Coast regions. Processing will take place at Cirba Solutions’ Lancaster, Ohio facility. The plant

will use advanced technology to extract critical minerals from scrap and end-of-life batteries with an up to 95% recovery rate, then supply battery-grade metals back into the supply chain.

“Cirba Solutions’ large and well-established transportation and recycling network ensures Toyota has nationwide battery collection and recycling to reduce both our costs as well as our operational carbon footprint,” Christopher Yang, group vice president, Business Development, Toyota Motor North America, said in a statement.

Toyota currently collects approximately 25,000 used automotive batteries, mostly nickel-metal hydride batteries found in its hybrid electric ve-

AP PHOTO

A logo of Toyota Motor Corp. at a dealer Wednesday, May 11, 2022, in Tokyo. hicles, from its dealership network each year. The automaker expects the number of batteries, particularly end-of-life lithium-ion batteries, to rise as the number of battery electric

vehicles it sells increases in the future.

Through the agreement with Cirba Solutions, Toyota anticipates reducing its overall transportation and logistics costs by

Amazon asks federal judge to dismiss the FTC’s antitrust lawsuit against the company The Associated Press ATTORNEYS for Amazon on Friday asked a federal judge to dismiss the Federal Trade Commission’s antitrust lawsuit against the e-commerce giant, arguing the agency is attacking policies that benefit consumers and competition.

Amazon’s response came more than two months after the FTC — joined by 17 states — filed the historic complaint against the Seattle-based company, alleging it inflates prices and stifles competition in what the agency calls the “online superstore market” and in the field of “online marketplace services.”

In its 31-page filing made in a federal court in Washington state, Amazon pushed back, arguing the conduct that the FTC has labeled anti-competitive consists of common retail practices that benefit consumers.

The FTC’s complaint, filed in

AP PHOTO

The Amazon logo is seen, Sept. 6, 2012, in Santa Monica, Calif.

September, accused the company of engaging in anti-competitive practices through measures that deter third-party sellers from offering lower prices for

products on non-Amazon sites.

The agency said Amazon buried listings offered at lower prices on other sites. Simultaneously, it noted Amazon was

charging merchants increasingly higher fees and driving up prices for products on its own site. It also alleged Amazon kept sellers dependent on services, such as its logistics and delivery service, which have allowed it to collect billions in revenue every year.

In its request for a dismissal, Amazon said the lawsuit faults Amazon for featuring competitive prices and declining to feature uncompetitive ones.

“Amazon promptly matches rivals’ discounts, features competitively priced deals rather than overpriced ones, and ensures best-in-class delivery for its Prime subscribers,” the company wrote in the filing. “Those practices — the targets of this antitrust Complaint— benefit consumers and are the essence of competition.”

Amazon also pushed back against allegations it conditions Prime eligibility on products — which denotes fast shipping

at least 70% from reducing the average miles driven for collection and recycling from 1,251 to 582, based on 2022 data, and by focusing on the Midwest and East Coast regions.

— on whether sellers use its fulfillment service, Fulfillment by Amazon.

An unredacted version of the FTC’s lawsuit unveiled in November alleged Amazon used a tool — codenamed “Project Nessie” — to predict where it can raise prices and have other shopping sites follow suit.

The agency said Amazon used the algorithm to raise prices on some products and kept the new elevated prices in place after other sites followed its lead.

In its filing Friday, Amazon said it experimented with the “automated pricing system” Nessie years ago. It posited Nessie was intended to “match to the second-lowest competitor instead of the absolute lowest” for “limited products and duration.” The company also said it stopped the experiments in 2019, and matches its prices to the lowest prices today.

Amazon also pushed back on the agency’s allegations that the company is a monopoly.

It said in its filing that it faces competition from small retailers to large online and brickand-mortar businesses like Walmart, Target, Best Buy and Apple, among others.

State football champs crowned, B4

AP PHOTO

Newly-hired Duke football coach Manny Diaz, left, was introduced to the home crowd by Athletic Director Nina King, right, during Saturday’s men’s basketball game at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

New Blue Devils football coach Manny Diaz embraces culture

GOLF

Wells Fargo Championship to end after 2024 Charlotte The Wells Fargo Championship is not renewing its contract to host a PGA Tour event, ending 22 years on the schedule for what is now a signature event with a $20 million purse. The tournament, held annually at Charlotte’s Quail Hollow Club, will be played for the final time next May. Sports Business Journal reported last month a new funding model by the PGA Tour in which tournaments would put up more toward the purse. The publication reported Friday that Wells Fargo wanted to remain as a sponsor and even proposed losing the signature status to trim costs. The tournament began in 2003 as the Wachovia Championship and was an immediate favorite among players for the golf course and the first-class treatment provided by the club. The tour said it plans to remain in Charlotte and is actively meeting with potential title sponsors.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Pitt hires WCU’s Bell as offensive coordinator Pittsburgh Pittsburgh has hired Kade Bell as its offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Bell replaces Frank Cignetti, who was fired two weeks ago following the program’s worst season in 25 years. Bell comes to Pitt from Western Carolina, where he held the same position while helping the Catamounts become one of the most dynamic offenses in the Football Championship Subdivision. Western Carolina led the FCS in total offense this season while finishing third in passing yards and fourth in scoring. Pitt went 3-9 in 2023, its first nine-loss season since 1998. The offense was a major issue. The Panthers finished last in the 14-team ACC in points and scoring.

The former Miami coach and defensive wizard made a splash on the first day after being hired

RYAN HENKEL | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

NC State unveiled a new statue outside of Reynolds Coliseum of 1970s basketball star David Thompson last Wednesday.

NC State honors legend Thompson with statue The school immortalized the two-time national player of the year

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RALEIGH — NC State unveiled its latest campus fixture last Wednesday morning: a statue of former basketball star and NCAA national champion David Thompson outside of Reynolds Coliseum.

“It’s a big moment not only for me but for my family,” Thompson said. “It means a lot to be the first player (with a statute). There’s only one first player, and to be that one, you gotta be special, so I’m just grateful for them choosing me to be that first one.”

A Boiling Springs native, Thompson played for the Wolfpack from 1972-75 and averaged 26.8 points and 8.1

rebounds per game. He led NC State to two straight undefeated seasons in ACC play and was the superstar on the school’s first championship team in 1974.

In all three of his collegiate years, Thompson earned ACC Player of the Year and consensus All-American honors, and he was The Associated Press National Player of the Year twice (1974, 1975). Thompson’s No. 44 is the only retired number in NC State men’s basketball history.

“The timing was perfect in conjunction with the 50year anniversary,” Thompson said. “As you know, we’re not getting any younger, and I’m glad to have a statue there while I’m still alive. Timing is everything, and I think it’s a great time. Having a chance for my grandkids to see the See STATUE, page B3

cruiter, took no time connecting with the undergraduates.

He turned to a student clad, for some reason, in an apron and dark blue chef’s hat and asked if he could wear the hat.

Another nearby female student

By Shawn Krest brings a blue-painted baby doll North State Journal in a BabyBjorn carrier to every DURHAM — Manny Diaz game, tossing it into the air as didn’t just win the press confer- the Crazies chant, “Oh, baby!” ence at Duke, he took a victory He quickly learned the craft of a lap around campus. successful “Oh, baby!” toss.

Shortly after being introduced Diaz, whose father was mayas the new head football coach or of Miami from 2001 to 2009, of the Blue Devils, Diaz walked was busy winning hearts and out to center court at Camer- minds on his first day on the on Indoor Stadium during a job. He promised that his enertimeout of the Duke basketball gy will remain at Cameron Cragame. He posed for photos with zy levels of high while with the the athletic director Blue Devils. who hired him, Nina “You want to see King. Then, as he the passion that we was being led back to play with,” he said. his seat, Diaz turned “We’ve got “We should look like to the Cameron Crawe’re the most excitzies student section to have ed team to play. And and pumped his fist. fun playing part of that is how When they respondwe practice out there. football to ed enthusiastically, We’ve got to practice he broke away from the point with passion. We’ve his escorts and ran in where they got to have fun playfront of the students, ing football. There’s slapping fives. When almost think a lot of stuff in colhe found a break in we’re a little lege football that is the mass of humaninot always fun, but ty, he jumped into the deranged.”

Saturdays, that’s specrowd with them for a cial. And when peofew seconds. ple come to watch us Manny Diaz, “The press conplay, we for sure have new Duke ference wasn’t bad, to look like we’re the right?” he had asked football coach ones having more fun rhetorically a couple than anybody else to of hours earlier. “1-0. the point where they There’s (Penn State almost think we’re head coach) James Franklin. All a little deranged because, you you can do is go one and zero to- know, we probably are a little day.” deranged.”

Diaz later decided to run up Diaz was one of the top defenthe score. sive coordinators in the country, After his brief meeting with spending nearly a decade runthe Crazies, the video board ning units at Mississippi State, showed Diaz sitting in his court- Texas, Penn State and Miami. side seat with his family. As they He is taking his second swing at do with visiting recruits and re- the head coaching role, both in turning alumni players, the fans the ACC. The Hurricanes proinvited Diaz to come visit. moted him to the top spot in “Manny Diaz, sit with us,” 2019, but he only lasted three they chanted. Diaz quickly com- seasons before he was fired. plied, walking down the court, “Like anything, you learn so accompanied by his young son, much,” he said. “If you’re a firstalso named Manny. time starter, the first time you’re The crowd parted to allow a position coach, first time you them to step up onto the bleachers. Diaz, a skilled re- See DIAZ, page B4

B2 WEDNESDAY

12.13.23

TRENDING

Jayden Daniels: The LSU standout won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night, beating out fellow quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. of Washington and Oregon’s Bo Nix to be named college football’s top player. Daniels became the first Heisman winner to be part of a team that failed to play for a conference championship since 2016, when Lamar Jackson won for a Louisville team that also went 9-3.

Trae Young: The Hawks guard was fined $25,000 by the NBA on Saturday for confronting and directing inappropriate language toward a game official at the end of Atlanta’s one-point home loss to the Nets last Wednesday.

Young thought there should have been a foul called when he tossed up an off-balance one-hander that bounced off the rim as the horn sounded.

Jon Sumrall: The Troy coach is headed to Tulane.

Sumrall will replace Willie Fritz, who left the Green Wave after eight seasons to take over at Houston. The 41-year-old Sumrall has gone 23-4 at Troy the past two seasons, winning back-to-back Sun Belt Conference championships after the Trojans beat Appalachian State on Dec. 2. He was co-defensive coordinator at Tulane under Curtis Johnson from 2012-14.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson on Friday won the Chuck Bednarik Award, given annually to the top defensive player in college football. The senior captain was involved in 138 tackles for the Wolfpack with six sacks, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and three interceptions. The Hillsborough native was previously named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and winner of the Butkus Award as the top linebacker in the nation.

MATT SLOCUM | AP PHOTO

“The only way out is together.”

Hurricanes center Sebastian Aho following a players-only meeting after Carolina lost its fourth straight game Saturday in Vancouver.

MICHAEL DWYER | AP PHOTO

“That part, I’m not a fan of.”

Celtics star and former Duke player Jayson Tatum on the NBA’s use of point differential as a tiebreaker in the In-Season Tournament.

BEN MCKEOWN | AP PHOTO

NBA

SOCCER

IAN MAULE | AP PHOTO

DAVE THOMPSON | AP PHOTO

The Lakers won the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament title, beating the Pacers on Saturday night. Anthony Davis had season highs of 41 points and 20 rebounds and LeBron James, pictured, was named tournament MVP. Lakers players on standard contracts each made $500,000 and the Pacers received $200,000 apiece.

Charlotte FC hired Dean Smith on Tuesday to be its next coach.

Smith, who was interim manager for Leicester City of the Premier League since April, replaces Christian Lattanzio. Lattanzio was let go after one season with Crown. Charlotte finished 10-13-11 in its second season in Major League Soccer.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

PRIME NUMBER

$700M Cost of the 10-year contract the Dodgers gave two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, the richest in MLB history.

Ohtani will be able to play but not pitch next season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

KARL B. DEBLAKER | AP PHOTO

NC State freshman guard Zoe Brooks turned in the second triple-double in school history Sunday in helping the third-ranked Wolfpack beat Liberty 80-67. Brooks, filling in for standout Saniya Rivers for her first start, had 14 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Tynesha Lewis had the program’s other triple-double back on Feb. 21, 2001.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

B3

Will running nonconference gauntlet toughen or expose Tar Heels?

Davis has repeatedly questioned the team’s toughness and dedication over the previous two seasons, and results against the power conference teams have been mixed at best.

The Tar Heels looked bad in losses to Purdue and Tennessee on successive days in November 2021 and later added a 29-point loss against Kentucky.

Last year, Carolina dropped its first three high-profile nonconference showdowns. With two losses and two to play, the Heels could again be facing the prospect of three nonconference losses. Heading into Kentucky, they are 6-8 against elite conference teams in November and December the last three years.

The losses in previous seasons exposed problems that

persisted throughout the year.

In 2021-22, the Heels managed to make a postseason run that erased the season-long issues with toughness and teamwork, but those issues came back with a vengeance last year as Carolina missed the tournament.

This season, the problems seem less glaring, but there is still a pattern to the Villanova and UConn losses.

Against Nova, Armando Bacot struggled, finishing with just eight points and four fouls on 4-of-10 shooting, Against UConn, Bacot was 4 of 12, and Davis said afterward that the team needed to be better at rebounding. He praised both opponents for the ability to shut down Bacot in the post.

Both games also saw a more traditional Achilles’ heel for the Tar Heels resurface, as an obscure player came out of nowhere to light up the Heels.

Forward Eric Dixon had a career day for Villanova, scoring 34 points with 10 rebounds, and against UConn, the Heels had no answer for the fiery Cam Spencer, who had 23 points.

Kentucky and Oklahoma are both more than capable of following the same game plan.

The Wildcats have a 7-footer in their rotation in Aaron Bradshaw as well as 6-foot-9 senior Tre Mitchell, so they are more than capable of containing Bacot while a sharpshooter like freshman Reed Sheppard lights up the Heels from outside.

Oklahoma has a pair of 6-foot-10 regulars in John Hugley IV and Sam Godwin and ranks higher in offensive and defensive rebounding rates than the Tar Heels. Both teams are better inside shooting teams than Carolina, so UNC’s tough schedule may serve as a blueprint for future ACC foes on how to beat the Heels.

Adversity can build character and, in year three, this is the most high-character team Hubert Davis has had. Adversity can also expose weaknesses, however, and that can be deadly entering conference play.

Sunday’s game. “(The line trouble) doesn’t concern me at all.”

After having a day to review tape and sleep on the statement, Tabor doubled down.

“The only way to become a better football player is by playing football,” he said. “The only way to get experience in the NFL is by playing.”

Of course, the argument starts to fall apart if you don’t accept the premise of Tabor’s statement — that Young is improving as the year goes on and the hits accumulate.

He threw for 137 yards on Sunday in a game during which he threw the ball 36 times, the most attempts Young has had in more than a month. It’s the sixth straight week that he’s fallen short of 200 yards and the eighth time in 12 starts this season. It’s the third time he hasn’t cleared 150 yards. Two of those games have come in the last four weeks. None of the other eight top picks had more than six sub-200-yard games in their rookie year, and the other eight quarterbacks combined for just nine games of less than 150 yards. You have to go back to Alex Smith, who started seven games as a rookie and never topped 200 yards, to find a top pick who had fewer big passing games. That was in 2005.

“I have tremendous confidence in Bryce,” Tabor said, echoing a refrain from the Panthers’ ever-changing roster of decision-makers all season long.

It might be time that someone had tremendous concern for him.

first at your university and in the history of the school (to have a statute), that has to be No. 1.”

Thompson is also No. 1 among the Wolfpack faithful.

“I just want to thank NC State fans for all the love and support,” Thompson said. “They’ve been with me through thick and thin, ups and downs, and they always showed me love whenever I came to the games or when I see them out on the streets. I love the fan support. They always stick with their team through good and bad, and I’m praying that we have another national championship for them in the near future.”

UNC continues its tough stretch of foes with Kentucky and Oklahoma

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE TAR HEELS could be excused for looking ahead to ACC play. That way, they’ll get an occasional break.

UNC is finishing up a brutal section of its early-season schedule. When the Heels play Kentucky in Atlanta on Saturday, it will be their sixth power conference opponent in a row with a seventh —Oklahoma in Charlotte — coming four days after that. The streak started with Villanova in the Bahamas, an overtime loss. They then beat Arkansas in a consolation game the next day. Back on the mainland, UNC hosted a top-10 opponent in Tennessee.

The only real break in the seven-game death march was the team’s ACC opener, against a Florida State team that has seen better days. Then it was right back at it with defending national champion UConn at Madison Square Garden. The Huskies handed the Tar Heels their second loss in the stretch.

That’s seven top-level opponents in five separate locations in a 28-day span.

UNC has always played high-profile games against big-name opponents during its nonconference schedule, and the Tar Heels have never been shy about traveling near and far to take on top competition.

However, coach Hubert Davis appears to be pushing the envelope on the strength of schedule.

In Davis’ first season, the Heels played four power conference opponents — Purdue, Tennessee, Michigan and Ken-

AP PHOTO

Jalen Washington and the Tar Heels have faced a murderers’ row of opponents during their nonconference schedule, including a loss to defending champion UConn. tucky. All were ranked at the time of the respective games.

The following season, he added a fifth — Iowa State, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio State and Michigan. Three of them were ranked. This year, he’s up to six, and, unlike the previous two years, there are no App States of Citadels to help break up the run of power foes.

In fact, UNC now faces the fewest nonpower conference opponents of any ACC team. There are five on this year’s schedule, down one from last year. The Heels opened the season with Radford, Lehigh, UC Riverside and Northern Iowa, all at home, and they’ll have Charleston Southern at home between the Oklahoma game and the start of serious ACC play.

Georgia Tech (Georgia Southern, Howard, UMass-Lowell, Alabama A&M and UMass) is the only other ACC team to face just five. Wake Forest, Syracuse, Miami and Notre Dame have six on their schedule. NC State, Virginia and Pitt have seven. Duke, Clemson, FSU, Virginia Tech and Louisville have eight. Boston College has nine. Nationally, Purdue (Samford, Morehead State, Texas Southern, Jacksonville and Eastern Kentucky) can match the Heels for the smallest plate of cupcakes.

Will the aggressive scheduling accomplish what Davis is hoping? Will the Tar Heels enter ACC play battle toughened and ready for the nightly wars in the paint?

Benching Bryce Young may be best for rookie QB’s development

gurus said that he was the clearcut No. 1 choice in the draft and most ready to step in and start in the league.

Thirteen games, and 12 losses, into his rookie season, Young — who missed one of those games to injury — has not shown much development. Sunday’s loss against the Saints may have been his worst as a pro. He completed just 13 of 36 passes in the game, the worst completion

percentage of his short career.

He failed to throw a touchdown pass for the third straight week.

His passer rating of 48.0 was the worst of his career, as was his 3.81 yards per attempt.

It was a low point, but as receiver Adam Theilen said, “We’ve been at rock bottom for a while.”

Young is last in the league in passer rating, behind Jets’ flame-out Zach Wilson, Raid-

ers fill-in Aidan O’Connell and Will Levis, who sat in the green room, unwanted and not selected, throughout the first night of this year’s NFL Draft. He’s also last in the league in QBR, the analytics-based replacement for passer rating.

Of course, that’s part of developing a quarterback, the experts always say. Plenty of top picks struggled as rookies. Even among that group, however, Young doesn’t stack up well.

Young is the ninth quarterback to be taken first overall since Cam Newton was drafted by the Panthers in 2011. As rookies, the other eight quarterbacks had an average of 11.61 yards per completion. Young is at 8.98, the lowest figure of any of the nine by three-quarters of a yard. The other eight top picks had 6.97 yards per attempt. Young is at 5.25, also the lowest of the nine.

His completion percentage is ahead of Jameis Winston, Jared Goff and Andrew Luck, but he has the lowest rookie passer rating by more than 7 points, and the lowest QBR by 11.

There are two areas where Young tops the list of rookie top picks. He’s been sacked 48 times this year, which ties Kyler Murray for the most of the nine quarterbacks.

Getting sacked once a quarter isn’t good for a young quarterback’s health or psyche. But interim coach Chris Tabor rejected any notion that benching Young to protect him could be in the cards.

“I think he’s going to continue to improve,” he said right after

also immortalized in the statue — the stainless steel base is 44 inches off the ground.

“It turned out real good,” Thompson said of the statue.

“Except they could have had (former UCLA star Bill) Walton up under me. I think they did a good job with it, and what’s really good is showing my 44-inch vertical on there. Having me levitating above the rim because that’s what I did back in the day.”

Thompson played in an era during which dunking was banned by the NCAA, but his incredible leaping ability was still utilized and integral in Sloan’s offensive scheme. Thompson and

teammate Monte Towe are said to have invented the alley-oop, in which Towe would toss the ball high up above the rim where Thompson would grab it and drop it into the basket.

Thompson’s ability to elevate above the rim was second to none, and while he was perhaps one of the greatest collegiate players ever, Thompson also noted that he was surrounded by great teammates during his time at NC State.

“Our team was special,” Thompson said. “We had an exciting style of play. We played above the rim, we played fast, we had a circus team. We scored 150

points or something and won by 75 sometimes. Won 34 straight ACC games, which is crazy. Nobody will ever do that again. Just the style of play and the excitement we brought to the game. I think even the other teams in the ACC enjoyed watching us play.”

Following his collegiate career, Thompson played nine pro seasons in the ABA and NBA before a knee injury forced him into retirement in 1984.

In 1996, Thompson was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

“Getting inducted into the Hall of Fame is really good,” Thompson said, “but being the

The top pick is struggling through the Panthers’ nightmare season

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE BEST WAY to develop a franchise quarterback in the NFL is a question of nature vs. nurture.

The Carolina Panthers are clearly leaning on the nature side of the argument because it’s hard to imagine a less nurturing environment than the one top draft pick Bryce Young has navigated this year.

Unlike most No. 1 overall picks, Young was able to avoid being sent to the worst team in the league. The Panthers traded up from the “merely bad” range of the draft to the top spot in order to choose him. A coaching change, three switches in who was calling plays for Young and one of the worst pass protections in the NFL have helped to make the Panthers the worst team in the league this season.

Young had all the natural gifts you could want in a quarterback. A Heisman winner and national champion in college, he was the latest in a long line of Alabama quarterbacks to head to the NFL. Pro personnel

STATUE from page B1 statue and my daughters and to just be around and come back and reflect on the times we had together.”

Thompson joins former coaches Jim Valvano, Kay Yow, Everett Case and Norm Sloan in having been immortalized with a statue outside of Reynolds.

The statue, which was created by artist David Alan Clark of Wyoming, is a 13-foot bronze likeness of Thompson in the process of catching an alley-oop pass.

Nicknamed “Skywalker,” Thompson was famous for his 44-inch vertical leap which is

AP PHOTO

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has been sacked 48 times in his rookie season.

B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Stumbling Hurricanes looking for answers Carolina has gone from a Stanley Cup favorite to one of the NHL’s biggest disappointments

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal WHAT HAPPENED to the Carolina Hurricanes?

That seems to be what everyone — from media and fans to the team’s players and coaches — is asking after the Hurricanes lost the first four games of their six-game road trip to spiral down to sixth place in the Metropolitan Division.

“We’re not happy and we’re frustrated,” Hurricanes center Sebastian Aho said after the players held a closed-door meeting following Saturday’s 4-3 loss in Vancouver, the team’s fourth straight defeat during its western Canada swing. “Like I said, we’ve done a lot of talking. This isn’t the first meeting we’ve had.

The time is now to show it to us and everyone what we are capable of. The only way out is together.”

It is the first time since November 2019 — Rod Brind’Amour’s second season as coach — that Carolina has lost four straight games in regulation. The loss to the Canucks dropped the Hurricanes to 14-12-1 on the season, including 6-10-0 on the road, and they were 10 points behind the first-place Rangers heading into Tuesday night’s games.

The easy answer to the question asked at the start of this piece is goaltending.

Carolina ranks last in the NHL in save percentage at .867 and has, according to Hockey-Reference.com, gotten just eight quality starts from Antti Raanta (four in 11 starts) and Pyotr Kochetkov (four in 10 starts) this season. Frederik Andersen, out with what the team has called a blood clotting issue, had three quality starts out of six before he went on injured reserve.

PHOTO VIA AP

Canucks forward Ilya Mikheyev celebrates his goal against Hurricanes goalie Antti Raanta on Saturday in Vancouver.

The Hurricanes considered signing veteran Jaroslav Halak when Andersen was first diagnosed, having him practice with the team on a professional tryout, but the 38-year-old reportedly balked at an AHL conditioning assignment and left Raleigh without a contract.

Detroit and Montreal have both carried three goalies this season, and Carolina could look to those teams if it wishes to change its mix in net.

The Red Wings have two familiar faces — James Reimer and Alex Lyon — among their trio, while the Canadiens could be looking to move one of Jake Allen or Cayden Primeau — yes,

he’s the son of Keith, who was traded from the Hurricanes to Philadelphia after holding out in 1999 in the deal that brought Brind’Amour to Raleigh — after signing Sam Montembeault to a three-year contract extension.

The Blue Jackets could also be in the market to move one of Elvis Merzlikins (currently on IR with an illness) or Spencer Martin now that top goalie prospect Daniil Tarasov is back from injury.

The obvious question is are any of those options a worthwhile upgrade?

Only Merzlikins (10 quality starts in 19 appearances), Allen (six of 11) and Lyon (four of six)

have had quality starts in more than 50% of their starts, and two of them would require big commitments.

Merzlikins has this year and three more left on a five-year contract that costs $5.4 million against the cap annually.

Allen has a $3.85 million AAV contract that expires after next season. Lyon is a bargain at $900,000 this year and next, but would the Red Wings even be willing to trade help to a team they could be battling with for a playoff spot?

Carolina could also look to floundering teams like Chicago and San Jose. Former Hurricanes goalie Petr Mrazek in on

4 schools crowned state football champions Weddington, Hickory, Reidsville and Mount Airy won NCHSAA titles

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal THE HIGH SCHOOL football season came to an end last weekend when the North Carolina High School Athletic Association held its four championship games, two each at the homes of NC State and UNC football.

1A: Mount Airy 21, Tarboro 3 Mount Airy won its second straight 1A state football championship, doing all its scoring in the second half and smothering Tarboro in a 21-3 win Saturday at Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill.

The Vikings (13-1) led at halftime thanks to a 39-yard field goal by Oscar Perez Gaspar and a goal-line stand that resulted in a missed field goal by the Granite Bears (16-0).

“Three-nothing at half, I thought we were playing as well as we could have,” Tarboro coach Jeff Craddock said. “But we knew they’re a second half team.”

Mount Airy proved to be exactly that, first getting a touchdown run by Tyler Mason — who finished with 133 yards — to take the lead. Quarterback Ian Gallimore and Mario Revels connected on an 89-yard shovel pass on the next drive to extend

DIAZ from page B1

were a coordinator, but there’s really nothing like being a head coach. I mean, even just now the familiarity of the job itself.

The last 24 hours since touching down here in Durham. So, you’re aware. I’ve joked it’s like parenting. The fact you’re born on this planet means that you obviously have parents somewhere, you get to watch your parents and you think you have some sort of idea of what it’s like until you bring your firstborn home and

an expiring deal and has performed well in a bad situation with the Blackhawks. Sharks goalies Kaapo Kahkonen and Mackenzie Blackwood have sub-.900 save percentages but with little help in front of them.

Which raises the point: Is the Hurricanes’ problem truly the goaltending?

There’s no denying Carolina has lost games this season because of its goalies, but there have also been uncharacteristic breakdowns that have left the team’s final line of defense vulnerable.

While the defense hasn’t been as good as it looks on paper, it’s often been the Hurricanes’ forwards who have failed the team.

That starts with Martin Necas. The 24-year-old is in a contract year and looks more like the player who struggled through the 2021-22 season — also when he was playing for a new deal — than the one who led the team in scoring last year.

He has been on the ice for 30 goals against at even strength, nine more than second-place forward Sebastian Aho, plus four more shorthanded goals.

Necas was on the ice for a teamhigh 65 even-strength goals a year ago.

Captain Jordan Staal, who faces the opposition’s best players each game, was on the ice for 45 even-strength goals against in 81 games last season. This year, he’s been on the ice for 20 in 27 games. Michael Bunting, Seth Jarvis, Aho and others have all been victimized during the trip to western Canada.

There’s no quick fix to the goaltending if the players in front of the net continue to make crucial mistakes. The chicken or the egg problem for the Hurricanes is whether the goalies are struggling because of the play in front of them or the players are making mistakes because they can’t trust the goaltending behind them.

As Aho said, the only way out is together.

4A: Weddington 56, Hoggard 21

Reidsville rebounded from losing in last season’s title game and picked up its 10th state football championship, beating previously undefeated Clinton 28-18 in the 2A final Saturday at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh.

Rams quarterback Al Lee threw for 258 yards and four touchdowns on 17-of-27 passing, connecting for scores with three different receivers.

“Can’t say enough about the job he’s done,” said first-year Reidsville coach Erik Teague — who took over the program his father, Jimmy, led to eight state championships — told http:// HighSchoolOT.com .

Jariel Cobb rushed for 145 yards on 24 carries for Reidsville (15-1).

as time expired to lift the Red Tornadoes to a 33-26 win over Seventy-First in the 3A cham“I was very excited to get pionship game Friday at Kenan that moment.”

Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill.

“I was very excited to get that Hickory quarterback Brady Stober on scoring the go-ahead moment,” Stober said of scorthe winning touchdown. touchdown with 36 seconds left ing “I mean, that’s what every kid in the 3A title game could dream of. Just think about situations the night before, state championship’s on the line, Clinton (15-1) trailed 14-3 at that’s all you could wish for.”

Hickory (16-0) was led by the half but pulled within four points after a 1-yard touchdown running back Isaiah Lackey, run by Amaris Williams in the who rushed for 113 yards and third quarter, but Reidsville three touchdowns on 28 carries.

Seventy-First (15-1) dominatquickly responded with one of Lee’s two touchdown passes to ed the time of possession (28:11Kendre Harrison — who also 19:49) thanks to 335 yards on had six tackles and a sack on the ground. Both quarterback defense — to push the lead back Deandre Nance (18 carries, 159 yards, two touchdowns) and to 11.

The Dark Horses totaled 217 running back Donavan Fredyards on 36 carries, led by Jo- erick (16 carries, 122 yards) siah Robinson’s 110 yards, and eclipsed the 100-yard mark for got 12 tackles from Jayden Wil- the Falcons. Nance totaled four touchdowns in all, including liams.

“The kids fought hard all the throwing a 6-yard touchdown way to the end, and I didn’t ex- to Jaydyn Surgeon with 2:42 pect anything different,” Clin- left to tie the game at 26-26.

“We had another tremendous ton coach Cory Johnson said. season,” Seventy-First coach Duran McLaurin said. “It didn’t 3A: Hickory 33, end the way we wanted it to, but Seventy-First 26 it gives us something to push for Hickory quarterback Brady next season.”

It was Hickory’s second title Stober rushed for an 8-yard touchdown with 36 seconds in as many tries, while Sevenremaining and Will Prince had ty-First dropped to 2-2 all time an interception in the end zone in state championship games.

Weddington won its first 4A state football title and fourth overall, taking the lead in the first quarter and never looking back in a 56-21 win over Hoggard on Saturday at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh.

Quarterback Tyler Budge totaled three touchdowns (two through the air and one on the ground) while playing with a sprained throwing shoulder, and running back Nick Diamond and receiver Keenan Jackson both scored twice for the Warriors (14-2).

“A really special group from the get-go” Weddington coach Andy Capone said. “Ups and downs, but I didn’t have a doubt we could be here at the end. And man, they put on a show tonight.”

It is the Warriors’ fourth state title since 2016 and the first since 2019.

Hoggard (14-2), playing in its second state championship game and first since winning a title in 2007, scored first but allowed 42 straight points to the Warriors.

The Vikings got seven receptions for 125 yards from receiver Aniziyon Session and 13 tackles from Kamar Fulton in the loss.

“It was a little bit of a tough night, not the way we drew it up,” Weddington coach Craig Underwood said. “But, like I just told the team, (don’t) let it take away what they’ve done this year.”

then it’s like, ‘Whoa, where’s the instruction manual for this thing, right?’ I think after your first year as a head coach, I think you get your sea legs underneath you a little bit more.”

He went 21-15 in three years with the Canes, taking the team to a pair of bowl games and finishing in the Top 25 once. A slow start to his third season, however, soured the fans and boosters on him, and even a strong finish to that year couldn’t save his job.

“I felt that our second and third year at Miami, I thought

we were in the process, on the way of building a really strong culture,” he said. “The 12 ACC wins the last two years. We won four out of five to end the last season, so we felt like we were on the way. We understand again, you’re in this profession, you understand what it is, but you’re always learning. It’s just like what you would demand from the players. You’re always learning.”

Diaz will have to learn on the fly in his first few weeks at Duke.

More than a half-dozen contributors from last year’s team,

“This,” he said, “is a direct quote: ‘When we’re on campus, we’re surrounded by the best people in the world, and when we come back into our locker room, we think we have the best locker room in the world.’ And that’s it. That’s the something about Duke. That is the culture, that is the key. That’s the most important thing and that is the thing to me right now that is so worthy of protecting.”

It’s also worthy of wearing the chef’s hat and throwing a doll into the air.

the lead to 14-3, and Gallimore got his second touchdown pass to finish off the scoring, hitting Blake Hawks to make it 21-3.

“These guys stayed the course and bounced back in the second half and played tremendous,” Mount Airy coach J.K. Adkins said. “I’m very proud of them and very proud for our community as well.”

Mount Airy, which topped Tarboro for the second consecutive year, won its ninth title in 14 championship game appearances.

2A: Reidville 28, Clinton 18

including quarterback Riley Leonard and running back Jordan Waters, are in the transfer portal, and the early national signing day is fast approaching.

He’ll have to hire a staff of assistants, lock down the early signing class and work the portal.

He’s already convinced running back Jacquez Moore to withdraw from the portal and return to Duke, so he’s off to a strong start.

Diaz quoted an unnamed Duke player when explaining why he took the job.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

entertainment

B5 Book Review: ‘Soldier of Destiny’ traces Ulysses S. Grant’s complicated route before the White House The Associated Press

AP PHOTO

Taylor Swift performs at the Monumental stadium during her Eras Tour concert in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023.

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is the first tour to gross over $1 billion, Pollstar says The Associated Press

Pollstar found that Swift also brought in approximately $200 million in merch sales. Her blockbuster film adaptation of the tour earned approximately $250 million in sales, making it the highestgrossing concert film of all time.

LOS ANGELES — Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is the first tour to cross the billion-dollar mark, according to Pollstar’s 2023 year-end charts.

Not only was Swift’s landmark Eras Tour the No. 1 tour both worldwide and in North America, but she also brought in a whopping $1.04 billion with 4.35 million tickets sold across 60 tour dates, the concert trade publication found.

Pollstar data is pulled from box office reports, venue capacity estimates, historical Pollstar venue ticket sales data, and other undefined research, collected from Nov. 17, 2022 to Nov. 15, 2023.

Representatives for the publication did not immediately clarify if they adjusted past tour data to match 2023 inflation in naming Swift the first to break the billion-dollar threshold.

Pollstar also found that Swift brought in approximately $200 million in merch sales and her blockbuster film adaptation of the tour, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” has reportedly earned approximately $250 million in sales, making it the highest-grossing concert film of all time.

According to their estimates, Pollstar predicts a big 2024 for Swift as well. The magazine projects the Eras Tour will once again reach $1 billion within their eligibility window, meaning Swift is likely to bring in over $2 billion over the span of the tour.

Worldwide, Swift’s tour was followed by Beyoncé in second, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band in third, Coldplay in fourth, Harry Styles in fifth, and Morgan Wallen, Ed Sheeran, Pink, The Weeknd and Drake.

In North America, there was a similar top 10: Swift, followed

by Beyoncé, Morgan Wallen, Drake, P!nk, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Ed Sheeran, George Strait, Karol G, and RBD. Beyond the Swift of it all, 2023 was a landmark year for concert sales: worldwide, the top 100 tours of the year saw a 46% jump from last year, bringing in $9.17 billion compared to 2022’s $6.28 billion.

In North America, that number jumped from $4.77 billion last year to $6.63 billion.

Earlier this week, Swift was named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year. Last month, Apple Music named her its artist of the year; Spotify revealed she was 2023’s most-streamed artist globally, raking in more than 26.1 billion streams since Jan. 1 and beating Bad Bunny’s three-year record.

Consider 2023 a year of incredible pop music dominance — (Taylor’s Version.)

Ulysses S. Grant’s standing among the presidents has improved in recent years, with critically acclaimed biographies by Ron Chernow and others offering a new perspective on his time in the White House.

But the 18th president who led the Union armies to victory in the Civil War still leaves a complicated legacy, especially when it comes to his relationship to slavery. That relationship is the centerpiece of John Reeves’ enlightening “Soldier of Destiny: Slavery, Secession and the Redemption of Ulysses S. Grant.”

Reeves’ book isn’t a comprehensive biography, and it doesn’t cover Grant’s time in the White House. But it gives readers an enlightening look at how he benefited from slavery years before he helped end the institution.

Reeves traces the evolution of Grant from someone who “actively participated in the slave culture of St. Louis” before the Civil War. Reeves is fair and blunt in depicting the role slavery played in Grant’s life as he tried to provide a “respectable middle-class lifestyle” for his family before the war.

“And this lifestyle, it must be remembered, was dependent on the ownership of human property,” Reeves writes. He also points out the ambivalence Grant displayed about slavery before the Civil War. But he also examines the characteristics and skills that it took for Grant to go from an officer who was forced to resign from the Army to one of the most revered military heroes in history. This includes a detailed look at the key battles he faced during the Civil War. Reeves doesn’t shy from highlighting the stains upon Grant’s military legacy including the reports of drinking that dogged Grant throughout the years. He also devotes a chapter to the order Grant issued expelling Jewish people from a military district he oversaw, an effort that was intended to halt illegal cotton speculation and remains a “black mark on his character,” Reeves writes.

Reeves manages to stitch Grant’s flaws and virtues into a thought-provoking portrait of a key historical figure who never lost faith in himself or his country.

This cover image released

by Pegasus Books shows “Soldier of Destiny: Slavery, Secession, and the Redemption of Ulysses S. Grant” by John Reeves.

AP PHOTO

Former Fox host Tucker Carlson is launching his own streaming network with interviews and commentary The Associated Press NEW YORK — Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson is starting his own streaming service, promising to deliver “the unadorned truth” to subscribers for $72 a year, he announced Monday.

Commentary, interviews, news reports, documentaries, and even an advice show will be offered on the Tucker Carlson Network, which is expected to be staffed by several people who worked for him at Fox. The new venture comes more than seven months after Fox abruptly fired Carlson, its most popular host. Fox never publicly explained the firing, and Carlson said on Monday that “it really is one of those mysteries that I’ll probably never get to the bottom of.”

AP PHOTO “I want to wake up and say to myself, ‘You can say whatever Tucker Carlson speaks at the Turning Point Action you want,’” Carlson said, an- conference, Saturday, July 15, 2023, in West Palm Beach, Fla. nouncing his streaming service on The Megyn Kelly Show, a podcast and radio show hosted interference, period,” Carlson Before his departure from by fellow Fox News refugee Kel- said. “I’m going to tell the un- Fox, Carlson averaged 3.2 milly, who has remade her career adorned truth — I hope gently lion viewers a night for the first as an independent commenta- and in the least offensive way as three months of 2023, accordtor.

I possibly can. But I’m going to ing to the Nielsen company.

“I’m going to do it without tell the truth until the day I die.” Fox’s ratings plunged immedi-

ately following his exit, however, the company claims to have made up for the loss with their replacement, Jesse Watters, who built the audience to 2.6 million in November in Carlson’s old time slot. Fox also said Watters has gained them advertisers who didn’t want their commercials associated with Carlson.

Now Carlson enters the world of subscription services with a variety of products on his own network.

“The Tucker Carlson Encounter” will be a long-form conversation show, with singer Kid Rock and golfer John Daly among the first guests.

“The Tucker Carlson Interview” will be a more formal question-and-answer session, like one he conducted recently with former President Donald Trump.

Both of those programs will be offered free on his website, at least at first, while the material of his observations on “After The Tucker Carlson Interview” will be behind a paywall.

“Tucker Carlson Uncensored” will be similar to the opening monologue he aired on his Fox show, while “Tucker Carlson

Films” will produce documentaries like he made for the Fox Nation online service — including a controversial one on the events surrounding Jan. 6, 2021.

The show “Ask Tucker Carlson” will feature the host answering questions from subscribers and giving advice.

Carlson had partnered with X, formerly known as Twitter, for content after leaving Fox. He’ll still post material there, branded under his network, but said he determined X didn’t have the capacity to help him build out the service he needed.

Fox had no immediate comment on Carlson’s venture, or whether it would violate a contract with the host that reportedly ran through next year’s election.

Neil Patel, Carlson’s former college roommate who launched The Daily Caller website with him in 2010, will be CEO of the new network, running business operations. Justin Wells, Carlson’s former executive producer who was fired from Fox with him in April, will oversee content.

“I feel happy,” Carlson told Kelly. “I feel liberated.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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2024 Cadillac CT-5V Blackwing A symphony of power and precision The pinnacle of American muscle, where luxury meets unbridled performance

By Jordan Golson North State Journal BOSTON — I’ve driven hundreds of cars, and I can count on one hand how many left me thinking, “If Da Vinci made a car, I think it would be like that.”

The Cadillac CT5 V-Blackwing is one of those cars. Unquestionably the best car I’ve ever driven from General Motors, it is a resounding gauntlet thrown down by its Michigan engineers that the American V8 muscle car ain’t dead yet. That said, it’s not doing as well as it once was.

The Charger and Challenger are gone, as is the Camaro. But we still have the Mustang and the Corvette. And, for now, we have the 2024 Cadillac CT5 V-Blackwing.

A 6.2-liter supercharged V8 under the hood makes a raucous 668 horsepower. Spec it properly, and Cadillac will fit it with probably the best six-speed manual I’ve ever used. Awakened with a gentle press of the start button, the CT5-V Blackwing is either a throbbing monster waiting to be unleashed or a gently purring kitten, depending on your drive mode.

Everything is an event with this car. Even driving to the gas station — which you’ll do a lot, thanks to a combined 15 MPG fuel economy — makes you smile.

The slightest backroad curve is a marshmallow test of wills as to whether or not to drop down a gear or two and punch it, even for just a moment, to feel the grip and torque. And it’s one of the easiest manuals to drive, too, thanks to a wonderful sync mode that automatically blips the throttle to match revs when you down- (or up-) shift.

It is, however, mind-bogglingly annoying that you have to turn the sync mode on every time you start the thing. Nothing is perfect, I suppose.

Turn the special V mode to maximum attack and you’ll get a hearty bark with every downshift, which makes pulling up to a red light an event — particularly if you do it next to a cop with his window rolled down.

BLAGHbrbrbrbruububbbbbbleeeeee...

BLARGHHburbrbrlelelelelgrrrmbbbbllle...

Luckily, the officer seemed more interested in looking at the car than in looking up my driving record. But whether at a red light or green, everything is an occasion in the Blackwing.

Turning into the grocery store parking lot? Exciting.

Stopping at Starbucks? A thrill a minute.

Getting gas yet again? That’s a chance to talk to a friendly passerby about some Cadillac they once owned.

It’s hilariously loud and joyfully obnoxious. It’s simultaneously brutal and soft with the change of drive mode, thanks to the Magnetic Ride Control and its suspension dampers filled with magnetorheological fluid, one of my favorite automotive engineering words. It’s basically an oil filled with lots of tiny iron shavings that uses magnets to adjust the suspension firmness with imperceptible quickness.

Speaking of quickness, it can run from zero to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, not that I tested that out at all — nor did I test the prodigious acceleration well into triple digits as you laugh hysterically at the exhaust note and supercharger howl.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, which is especially impressive considering they’re also sporty and firm, which often doesn’t equal comfort. Being a four-seater sports sedan, there’s a large trunk for hauling things, and the seating position is low but not so low that it’s annoying to climb in and out of.

While it impresses with handling and comfort, it also has all the tech, safety, and luxury features you’d expect from a top-ofthe-line Cadillac. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with a terrific AKG audio system, and the head-up display is a must-have as it’s the easiest way to double-check your engine RPM while you’re in when downshifting in glee towards that stoplight.

The CT5-V Blackwing was everything I expected and everything I’d hoped for. I had heard from other car journalists about how special it was. I’d tried not to get my hopes too high, but I couldn’t help it. But even with all the build-up and excitement, the Blackwing was nearly indescribably fantastic.

It turned out there were just two surprises. First was the color, an eye-popping yellow borrowed from Cadillac racing cars that looked drop-dead gorgeous in the sun and like something from a baby’s diaper in the shade. Cadillac’s race cars are half-black and half-yellow, which would have been greatly preferred to the Cyber Yellow paint job on this one, which got highly mixed reviews from everyone who laid eyes upon it.

There are numerous other color options for you to choose from, and you should, especially because the rest of the car has all manner of aggressive design treats, from carbon fiber aero to the massive Brembo brakes.

The other surprise was the price. The BMW M5 and Mercedes E 63 both start north of $110,000, while the 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing I tested was well-equipped at just $103,300.

It could (and probably does, depending on your dealer) cost 20 or 40 thousand dollars more, and it would still be worth every penny.

It’s that special.

My week with the Blackwing was one of the best in my automotive career — at least until it came time to return it, when, while driving in a highway construction zone, the wind suddenly knocked an orange, wooden, diamond-shaped warning sign right into the front corner of the car with no time or room to maneuver around it. It necessitated a bumper replacement before it could go on to the next journalist, and I still feel dreadful about it, though there truly wasn’t anything I could have done.

And so I make my dearest apologies to Cadillac and to the journalist who was to have it after me, but mostly, I apologize to that glorious car. You deserved better, Blackwing. Maybe there’s a silver lining, however: perhaps, while it’s in the shop, they can paint it a better color than that awful Cyber Yellow.

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PHOTO VIA CADILLAC

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PHOTOS VIA CADILLAC

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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‘Barbie’ leads Golden Globe nominations with 9, followed closely by ‘Oppenheimer’ The Associated Press GRETA GERWIG’S “Barbie” dominated the Golden Globe Awards nominations with nine nods for the blockbuster film, including best picture musical or comedy as well as acting nominations for Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling and three of its original songs.

It was closely followed by its release date and meme companion Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” which scored eight nominations, including best picture drama and for actors Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr. and Emily Blunt.

In a statement, Gerwig said she, “can’t wait to bring the Barbie party to the Globes.”

The revamped group, now a for-profit endeavor with a larger and more diverse voting body, announced nominations Monday for its January awards show, after scandal and several troubled years, including one without a broadcast. Cedric the Entertainer and Wilmer Valderrama presided over the announcements from the Beverly Hilton Hotel, where the show will also take place on Jan. 7.

Films nominated for best motion picture drama included “Oppenheimer,” Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro,” Celine Song’s “Past Lives,” Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” and Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest.”

In the best motion picture musical or comedy category, “Barbie” was joined by “Air,” “American Fiction” “The Holdovers,” “May December” and “Poor Things.”

Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things” and Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” both received seven nominations each.

“Poor Things” saw nominations for Lanthimos, its actors Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe, and Tony McNamara for screenplay. “Killers of the Flower Moon” got nods for Scorsese, for direction and co-writing the screenplay with Eric Roth, and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone and Robert De Niro.

Stone, who was also nominated for the Showtime series “The Curse,” said in a statement that she was “Feeling extremely bewildered and thankful for it all.”

She also said her “Poor Things” character Bella Baxter is her favorite.

IMAGE VIA AP

This image released by Universal Pictures shows Cillian Murphy in a scene from “Oppenheimer.”

DiCaprio praised Gladstone in his statement: “She is the soul of our film and helped to bring this sinister and painful part of our nation’s history to life,” he wrote. The film is about the murders of wealthy Osage individuals in Oklahoma in the early 20th century.

“Barbie” tied for second-most nominations in Globes history with “Cabaret,” from 1972. Robert Altman’s “Nashville” remains the record-holder with 11 nominations. It went into the morning as a favorite and got a big boost from its three original song nominations, including “I’m Just Ken,” and one of the year’s new categories, recognizing cinematic and box office achievement.

One person who was not nominated was America Ferrera, who delivered the movie’s most memorable monologue.

“Succession” was the top-nominated television program, with nine nods including for series stars Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook and Kieran Culkin, followed by Hulu’s “The Bear.”

As always there were some big surprises, like Jennifer Lawrence

getting nominated for her bawdy R-rated comedy “No Hard Feelings” for best performance by a female actor in a musical or comedy. She was nominated alongside Robbie, Stone and Fantasia Barrino (“The Color Purple”), Natalie Portman (“May December”) and Alma Pöysti (“Fallen Leaves”).

Barrino heard the news from her husband who she immediately called back to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

“My voice is shot because I’ve been screaming, crying and just telling God, ‘Thank you.’ I almost allowed fear to hinder me from this role, to keep me from this role,” she told the AP through tears. She’s been on the road for work and said she’s excited to go home and experience it with her children.

“The Color Purple” was expected to do better. The adaption of the stage musical got only two nominations total, both for actors, for Barrino and Danielle Brooks for her supporting performance. Left out was Colman Domingo, who was nominated for best drama actor for “Rustin.”

Cord Jefferson’s comedy “American Fiction” also came up with only two nods, best musical or comedy and for lead actor Jeffrey Wright, who plays a frustrated writer.

“I don’t think it’s totally healthy to think about these things too much, but they’re there, so one does,” Wright told the AP Monday. “I’m really pleased that the film is being recognized more so than my own personal recognition.”

Sofia Coppola’s widely acclaimed “Priscilla” got only one nomination, for actor Cailee Spaeny’s portrayal of Priscilla Presley. Her category mates in best female performance in a drama include Gladstone, Annette Bening for “Nyad,” Sandra Hüller for “Anatomy of a Fall,” Greta Lee for “Past Lives” and Carey Mulligan for “Maestro.”

The Globes won’t have to worry about anyone criticizing its “all male” directors this year, however. Gerwig was nominated as was Celine Song, for her romantic debut “Past Lives,” alongside Nolan, Scorsese, Cooper and Lanthimos.

Netflix got the most nominations overall, with 13 total for a slate which included “Maestro,” “May December” and “Rustin,” followed by Warner Bros., which made “Barbie” and “The Color Purple” with 12.

Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon” was not nominated at all. Instead, its star Joaquin Phoenix was recognized for “Beau is Afraid” in the lead actor comedy/musical category, with Wright, Matt Damon (“Air”), Nicolas Cage “Dream Scenario,” Timothée Chalamet (“Wonka”) and Paul Giamatti (“The Holdovers”). Michael Mann’s “Ferrari,” with Adam Driver, and Wes Anderson’s starry “Asteroid City” also got zero nominations.

The voting body has now grown to 300 members, following backlash to a 2021 report in the Los Angeles Times that found that there were zero Black members in the group that was then composed of only 87 foreign journalists.

Perhaps as a result, there were more international films and actors nominated in prominent categories including the Finnish comedy “Fallen Leaves,” the courtroom thriller “Anatomy of a Fall” and the harrowing Auschwitz drama “The Zone of Interest.”

The 81st Golden Globes will be the first major broadcast of awards season, with a new home on CBS, but no word yet on a host. It’s been tumultuous few years behind the scenes in the aftermath of the L.A. Times report, which also exposed ethical lapses like its members accepting lavish gifts and travel from awards publicists and studios.

The Globes had long been one of the highest-profile awards season broadcasts, second only to the Oscars. Before the pandemic, it was still pulling in around 19 million viewers. The show was touted as a boozy, A-list party, whose hosts often took a more irreverent tone than their academy counterparts.

Some years, the HFPA were pilloried for nominating poorly reviewed films with big name talent with hopes of getting them to the show, the most infamous being “The Tourist,” with Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. In the past decade, they’ve more often overlapped with the Oscars.

This year, NBC’s Tuesday night broadcast got its smallest audience ever for the ceremony, with 6.3 million viewers.

Nintendo cancels its Live 2024 Tokyo event after persistent threats to workers and customers The Associated Press TOKYO — Nintendo canceled its upcoming video game showcase and postponed several other events because of persistent threats to the company, its workers and players.

“We decided we could not amply ensure the safety of our customers,” Kyoto-based Nintendo Co. said in an online statement Thursday.

The Japanese manufacturer behind the Super Mario and Pokemon canceled Nintendo Live 2024 Tokyo, which had been set for Jan. 20 and 21. The annual event showcases Nintendo games and lets visitors sample them in a huge Tokyo exhibition hall.

Nintendo also postponed several contests, including the Japan championship for the popular ink-shooting game Splatoon, initially scheduled for later in December, as well as next year’s Mario Kart and Splatoon contests.

The company declined to give details of the threats but said police were contacted.

Nintendo has been targeted before, but said the potential risk to the public proved too much.

The new dates for the postponed events will be announced later, Nintendo said.

“We apologize sincerely to all those who have been looking forward to the events,” it said.

Cancellation of an event over threats is not common in Japan, a relatively safe, low-crime nation. But recently, complaints have surfaced about verbal and online abuse, raising concern that the problem may be serious.

AP PHOTO

A Nintendo sign is seen outside Nintendo’s official store in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, on Jan. 23, 2020.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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IMAGES VIA AP

Clockwise from top right: This video game image shows a scene from “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.”; An image shows a scene from “Super Mario Bros. Wonder.”; A scene from “Baldur’s Gate III.”

Baldur’s Gate, The Legend of Zelda and Cocoon shine brightest in a stellar year for video games The Associated Press It’s been a terrific year for video games. Developers hit their stride on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S consoles, unleashing massive adventures big enough to satisfy gamers for weeks. The Switch is at the end of its lifespan, but Nintendo debuted two spectacular games on its way out.

And indie studios held up their end, delivering distinctive takes on classic genres.

Here are the top 10 games of 2023, as chosen by Associated Press writer Lou Kesten.

1. Baldur’s Gate III Role-playing games were particularly ambitious this year, and none was more rewarding than this epic from Belgium’s Larian Studios. The main plot — you have a deadly parasite in your brain, and you need to get it out — is compelling enough, but your trek through the Forgotten Realms introduces a lively cast of characters and a cornucopia of fascinating side missions. It’s as close to the Dungeons & Dragons tabletop game as you can get digitally, and it’s a blast.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nearly 40 years in, Nintendo keeps finding new ways to present the heroic Link and his eter-

nal battle against evil. His most powerful new skill this time is Ultrahand, which allows him to build a seemingly endless variety of outlandish vehicles to traverse the sprawling land of Hyrule. Add in the usual assortment of devilish dungeons and brain-busting puzzles, and you can spend 100some hours just goofing around before tackling its emotionally moving climax.

3. Cocoon Feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world? That’s literally the burden of the beetle at the center of this masterpiece from Annapurna Interactive.

Thing is, each of those spheres gives you a special power (which I won’t spoil), and you can jump inside each world and explore.

By the time you’re moving worlds within worlds, your mind’s fully blown. Designer Jeppe Carlsen is known for the bleak cult classics Inside and Limbo, and while he’s in a more forgiving mood here, Cocoon is just as thought-provoking.

4. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty The 2020 release of Cyberpunk was, frankly, a mess, but Poland’s CD Projekt Red has devoted an extraordinary amount of effort to turning it into the game fans had hoped for. This year’s ex-

pansion makes it all worthwhile.

It begins as an “Escape from New York” riff — the president’s plane crashes in an urban hellhole — and evolves into a brutal take on technology, global politics and corporate voracity. Yes, Keanu Reeves is back — and you get to hang out with Idris Elba too!

5. Super Mario Bros. Wonder Nintendo’s most iconic character returns to the 2D, side-scrolling, running-and-jumping antics that made him famous. Mario has some new powers: He can drill through the ground, trap enemies in bubbles and even turn into an elephant. But the real highlight of each level is the Wonder Flower, which can transform the whole environment in an entirely different challenge. SMBW feels like the designers took every wacky idea they’ve had over the decades and stuffed them all into one game, and it’s hilarious.

6. Chants of Sennaar This puzzler from French indie Rundisc is built around a distinctive mechanic: translating foreign languages. Your mission is to explore an edifice inspired by the Tower of Babel, but you’re not going anywhere until you can make sense of the enigmatic signs and cryptic speech of each level’s inhabitants. It’s almost relaxing, but I felt thrilled every

time I managed to crack a new code. And the overarching goal — trying to find common ground with people you don’t understand — is inspiring.

7. Sea of Stars The 1990s are regarded as the golden age of role-playing games, and the folks at Canada’s Sabotage Studio are obviously fans.

Their latest throwback is the tale of two young warriors who can harness the powers of the moon and sun as they fight monsters summoned by a wicked alchemist. The graphics and gameplay evoke 16-bit classics like Chrono Trigger and Xenogears, the characters are thoroughly charming, and the story takes some surprising twists. While it works as homage, SoS has enough original ideas to make an old formula fresh.

8. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 The Marvel Cinematic Universe may be limping, but Sony and Insomniac Games apparently didn’t get the memo. Their latest comic-book romp soars, with two Spideys — Peter Parker and Miles Morales — web-slinging their way between the skyscrapers of Manhattan and beyond.

It’s beautifully paced, alternating low-key personal episodes with high-octane brawls against flamboyant supervillains. It’s the ideal

antidote to superhero fatigue.

9. Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew Afia, the swashbuckler at the center of this pirate caper from Germany’s Mimimi Games, has a problem: She’s dead, with a big old sword sticking right through her torso. But she’s not about to let that stop her from reassembling the crew of the ghost ship Red Marley and wreaking havoc on the high seas. Each of the sailors has a mystical power — Afia can teleport, for example, while the ship’s carpenter can drag people to hell. The result is an addictive series of tactical challenges with a bracing dose of black comedy.

10. Starfield Bethesda Softworks tries to cram decades of science fiction — from “2001: A Space Odyssey” to “Blade Runner” to “Everything Everywhere All at Once” — into its newest RPG. It doesn’t always work: You can’t build an entire galaxy without some stops being a little dull. But Starfield’s sheer ambition is arresting, and there’s enough of Bethesda’s well-honed storytelling finesse to make the journey worthwhile. Given the studio’s history with The Elder Scrolls and Fallout, here’s hoping it becomes the foundation (another classic SF reference!) of another successful franchise.

Inaugural Jazz Music Awards will be broadcast on PBS and PBS Passport with host Dee Dee Bridgewater The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — There are country award shows and hiphop award ones, Latin Grammys and beyond — so why hasn’t there been a televised jazz music award show to look forward to every year?

That changes on Jan. 1 when the inaugural Jazz Music Awards hits PBS member station Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) at 7 p.m. Eastern for television viewers across the state and streamers everywhere. The show was previously recorded at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta in 2022.

In Georgia, the first-ever televised Jazz Music Awards will be viewable on WGTV-TV (Atlanta/Athens), WNGH-TV (Chatsworth), WMUM-TV (Macon), WJSP-TV (Columbus), WACS-TV (Dawson), WABW-TV (Albany), WVANTV (Savannah), WXGA-TV (Waycross) and WCES-TV (Augusta).

Additionally, the Jazz Music Awards will be available to stream on PBS’s on demand service, PBS Passport.

The two-hour ceremony is hosted by Grammy- and Tony Award winner Dee Dee Bridgewater and celebrated stage and screen actor Delroy Lindo.

Bridgewater is one of the show’s eight performers, which also includes Dianne Reeves, Kenny Garrett, Orrin Evans, Ledi-

AP PHOTO

Dee Dee Bridgewater performs at the 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on May 6, 2023. Bridgewater will host and perform at the inaugural Jazz Music Awards. si, Somi, Lizz Wright, Braxton Cook, Brandee Younger, Jazzmeia Horn, The Baylor Project, and Lindsey Webster.

“Jazz music, although this is the original music form that

comes from the United States, has always been a kind of stepchild when it comes to award shows,” says Bridgewater.

She believes televising the Jazz Music Awards is an oppor-

tunity to highlight the genre, as well as become something people who may not know a lot about jazz — as well as those who keep the music alive — to join. “I hope it puts the music

and art in the forefront in a way that will entice people to want to experience some live jazz.”

Many awards were given out during the ceremony, including a Lifetime Achievement Award to the late great Wayne Shorter.

The show also boasts of tributes to the recently deceased Ramsey Lewis, Pharoah Sanders, Joey DeFrancesco, and Jaimie Branch.

“Jazz is a great art form, but if you don’t know it, you don’t know it, right? So now we get to take it out to the masses of people who may not quite know it on a platform now that’s large enough,” says Wendy F. Williams, the founder and executive producer of the Jazz Music Awards.

“And I think that’s what’s always been missing. It’s like jazz stayed with the jazz people. So, let’s bring jazz for everyone.”

“One of our slogans is ‘jazz is the culture,” says music director Terri Lyne Carrington. For her, putting the show together meant celebrating all of the ways in which jazz has evolved — and how it has laid the foundation for other musical genres.

“We try to have many of the styles within the genre represented to show that this is a living, breathing art form that can be historic and traditional, but in other ways, it can be modern and mixed with styles and popular today, like R&B and hip hop or rock,” she says. “And I think we did that.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ will feature Janelle Monáe, Green Day, Ludacris, Reneé Rapp and more in LA The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Ryan Seacrest will usher in 2024 on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” from New York City’s Times Square on December 31, alongside his host Rita Ora. There will once again be satellite locations in Los Angeles — hosted by Jeannie Mai — and a Spanish language countdown with host Dayanara Torres live from San Juan’s Puerto Rico Convention Center.

The Los Angeles party boasts of a star-studded lineup: R&B upand-comer Coco Jones, “What It Is” singer Doechii, pop belter Ellie Goulding, pop-punks Green Day and 2024 Grammy album of the year nominee Janelle Monáe.

Loud Luxury x Two Friends Feat. Bebe Rexha, Ludacris, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Paul Russell, Reneé Rapp and Thirty Seconds to Mars will also take the stage to usher in 2024.

In a year where “Barbie” ruled everything in pop culture, the Danish-Norwegian Europop band Aqua will revisit their bestknown hit, 1997’s “Barbie Girl.”

Fans of the “Barbie” movie and its soundtrack will recall that Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice gave the song a 2023 facelift with their collaboration, “Barbie World.”

Aqua will also perform “Doctor Jones” from their 1997 album “Aquarium.” Doechii will tackle “What It Is” and “Persuasive,” and Green Day will perform “Basket Case,” “Welcome to Paradise,” “Holiday,” and make the live debut of their new track, “Dilemma,” from their forthcoming

AP PHOTO

Ryan Seacrest arrives at the the 2021 Jingle Ball Los Angeles in Inglewood, Calif., on Dec. 3, 2021. album “Saviors,” out in January 2024.

Reneé Rapp will perform “Talk Too Much” as well as “Tummy Hurts” alongside best new artist Grammy nominee Coco

Jones. Ludacris will launch into a multi-song medley of some of his most recognizable hits; Nile Rodgers and CHIC will perform “Le Freak,” “Everybody Dance,” “Good Times,” and cover Daft

Punk’s “Get Lucky.”

Seacrest inherited ABC’s legendary “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” from Dick Clark and has been involved with the show since 2006.

Last year, his “New Year’s Rock

Eve” reached 13.8 million viewers in 2023.

“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024” will begin on ABC at 8 p.m. Eastern on Dec. 31.

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND

NEW HANOVER

NEW HANOVER

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 23E005028-590 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Sarah Christian, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before March 13, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 13th day of December, 2023.

Donna Donaldson, Executor of the Estate of Sarah Christian NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23-E-126 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Bertha H. Lockerman, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 1034 Palestine Road, Linden, North Carolina 28356, on or before March 6, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of December, 2023.

Kenneth Wayne Carter Executor of the Estate of Bertha H. Lockerman, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 12/6/23, 12/13/23, 12/20/23 and 12/27/23

NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, ASH WINNER WIGGINS., having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of JEANNEAN WINNER WIGGINS, Deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said ASH WINNER WIGGINS., at the address set out below, on or before February 29, 2024, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below.

This the 27th day of November , 2023.

ASH WINNER WIGGINS. Executor OF THE ESTATE OF JEANNEAN WINNER WIGGINS c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington NC, 28405

The undersigned having qualified as Executors of the Estate of Audrey M. Morse , deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, (Estate File No 2021 E 01429) this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present such claims to the undersigned at 247 Charlotte Street, Suite 205, Asheville, North Carolina on or before the 4th day of March, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment.

This the 29th day of November, 2023.

Jennifer Carol McCullough & Becky Lynne McClure, Executors c/o John C. Frue, Attorney 247 Charlotte Street, Suite 205 Asheville, NC 28801 (828)255-0309

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23E1603 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Verne Wayne Blalock, Jr., deceased, late of New Hanover, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Verne Wayne Blalock, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of February, 2024 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment.

This the 22nd day of November, 2023.

V W Blalock, III, Executor PO Box 4723 Wilmington NC 28406

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23-E-1568 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Carl Benedetto, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms, or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 317 Hay Hill Ct., Elgin, South Carolina 29045, on or before March 13, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

Alicia Benedetto Executor of the Estate of Carl Benedetto 317 Hay Hill Ct. Elgin, South Carolina 29045 For Publication 12/13/23, 12/20/23, 12/27/23, 01/03/24

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Elizabeth Cafini, late of Wake County, North Carolina (23E005585-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of March 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 29th day of November 2023.

Regenia Dayree Cafini Executor of the Estate of Mary Elizabeth Cafini c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 11/29, 12/6, 12/13, 12/20/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Wilber Yelton III, Deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, (Estate File No 23E1412) this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present such claims to the undersigned at the address set out below, on or before the 6th of March, 2024, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment.

This the 6th day of December, 2023.

Publication dates 11/22/2023 11/29/2023 12/6/2023 12/13/2023

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

This the 13th day of December 2023.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

WAKE

Brandon Michael Yelton, Administrator 1913 Island Pine Way Leland, NC 28451

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Marceline Carol Gilroy, late of Wake County (23E002389-910), North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of March 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 29th day of November 2023.

Doresa Carol Hunt Administrator of the Estate of Marceline Carol Gilroy c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 11/29, 12/6, 12/13, 12/20/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

WAKE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, Margaret Edwards Mason, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of MARGARET D. EDWARDS, deceased, (Estate File 23E 1698) hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said Margaret E. Mason, at the address set out below, on or before March 14, 2024 or this case may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below.

This the 13th day of December, 2023.

Margaret Edwards Mason, Executor OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET D. EDWARDS 2237 Lakeside Circle Wilmington, NC 28401

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Lura Jane Stoner, late of Wake County, North Carolina (23E005266-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 25th day of February 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of November 2023.

Terry A. Stoner Executor of the Estate of Lura Jane Stoner c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/13/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Louis Dale Gullie, late of Wake County, North Carolina (23E005498910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 9th day of March, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of December 2023.

Brian Dale Gullie Administrator of the Estate of Louis Dale Gullie c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 12/6, 12/13, 12/20, 12/27/2023)

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

B11

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 555 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Sarah M. Carter (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Sarah M. Carter) to H. Terry Hutchens, Trustee(s), dated August 24, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 10367, at Page 0338 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 23 CVS 2910

County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on December 18, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 2 in a Subdivision known as “SURVEY OF KING’S GRANT SECTION C PHASE 2 BUILDING 18” according to a plat recorded in Plat Book 140, Page 113, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1005 Kensington Park Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE

CLYDE ALBUM; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DEBRA ALBUM; UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS Residing at 1619 Barmack Court, Hope Mills, NC 28348; and JOSEPH ALBUM,

NORTH CAROLINA

Defendants.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

TO:

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION ACTION INVESTMENT GROUP, LLC, Plaintiff, v.

JOHNSTON AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22SP000367-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Stephanie McDonald and Eric McDonald (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Stephanie McDonald and Eric McDonald) to Getter Law Offices PA, Trustee(s), dated June 26, 2009, and recorded in Book No. 3729, at Page 990 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on September 27, 2021, in Book No. 6060, at Page 362A Loan Modification recorded on May 17, 2013, in Book No. 4293, at Page 427, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Johnston County, North Carolina and the holder of the

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP001522-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Dorman Curry (Deceased) and Becky Curry (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Dorman Curry and Becky Curry) to James D. Johnson, Jr., Trustee(s), dated November 14, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 5249, at Page 232 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Johnston County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on December 19, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Benson in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more

ROBESON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 23 SP 292 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed

by EDWARD LEE WILLIAMS AND SHIRLEY M. WILLIAMS payable to Option One Mortgage Corporation, lender, to FIRST AMERICAN TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY, Trustee, dated April 17, 2003, and recorded in Book 1303, Page 0470 of the Robeson County Public Registry by Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Robeson County, North Carolina, in Book 2422, Page 241, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Robeson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 1:30pm, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Robeson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 948246009200 ADDRESS: 30 SANDY GROVE ROAD, PARKTON, NC 28371 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): EDWARD LEE

WAKE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 23sp002631-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MICHAEL D. WEBSTER AND ESTELA M. WEBSTER DATED DECEMBER 16, 2013 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 15538 AT PAGE 676 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the

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

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit.

Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy

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

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

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

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

Court, Hope Mills, NC 28348. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than January 15, 2024 (40 days from date of first publication) and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

Attorney for Plaintiff

ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

Dates of Publication: December 6, 2023, December 13, 2023 and December 20, 2023

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 14682 - 65063

Claire Collins Dickerhoff State Bar Number: 44306 Post Office Box 2505 Fayetteville, NC 28302 Telephone: (910) 864-6888 Facsimile: (910) 864-6848 Claire.dickerhoff@hutchenslawfirm.com

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

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

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

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit.

Reasons of such inability to convey include,

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

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

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

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

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

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit.

Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy

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

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

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

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

WILLIAMS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF ROBESON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1303, PAGE 0470 AS FOLLOWS: THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OR TRACT OF LAND LYING AND BEING ABOUT 21 MILES NORTH OF THE CITY OF LUMBERTON, ABOUT 3 MILES NORTHWEST OF THE TOWN OF PARKTON; BOUNDED ON THE NORTHEAST BY STATE ROOD NO. 1712, ON THE SOUTHEAST BY STATE ROOD NO. 1711, ON ALL OTHER SIDES

BY OTHER LANDS OF EDWARD L. WILLIAMS, AS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 7-L, AT PAGE 559, ROBESON COUNTY REGISTRY, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A RIGHT OF WAY MONUMENT IN THE NORTHWEST RIGHT OF WAY (30 FEET FROM CENTER) OF STATE ROAD NO.-1711, SAID MONUMENT BEING LOCATED, S 42° 31’ 16” W 196.45 FEET FROM AN EXISTING FROM PIPE, THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF TRACT NO. A, MAP BOOK 12, PAGE 83, IN THE EAST LINE OF THE ORIGINAL TRACT OF WHICH THIS IS A PART; SAID PIPE IS 655.60 FEET FROM THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE ORIGINAL TRACT OF WHICH TIDE IS A PART AS MEASURED ALONG THE EASTERN LINE OF THE ORIGINAL TRACT; AND RUNNING THENCE AS THE NORTHWEST RIGHT OF WAY OF STATE ROAD NO. 1711, S 58° 11’ 01” W 205.25 FEET TO A 1/2 INCH IRON ROD; THENCE N 43° 30’ 15” W 145.92 TO A 1/2 INCH IRON ROD; THENCE N 44° 52’ 10” E 257.22 FEET TO A 1/2 INCH IRON ROD IN THE SOUTHWEST RIGHT OF WAY (30 FEET FROM CENTER) OF STATE, ROAD NO. 1712; THENCE AS SAID RIGHT OF WAY, S 42° 43’ 10” E 151.84 FEET TO A RIGHT OF WAY MONUMENT; THENCE S 00° 35” W 69.06.

FEET TO THE BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1.0 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, ACCORDING TO A SURVEY BY JOHN T FURMAN, REGISTERED

SURVEYOR, DATED SEPTEMBER 20, 1986, AND BEING A PORTION OF THAT TRACT OF LAND DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 7-O, PAGE 559, ROBESON, COUNTY REGISTRY. TOGETHER WITH MANUFACTURED HOME DESCRIBED AS: 1995 FLEETWOOD MODEL # 10354 SERIAL # GAPL2AG3105-10354 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

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

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

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this

property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit.

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

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

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

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

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN

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

agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on December 19, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Michael D. Webster and Estela M. Webster, dated December 16, 2013 to secure the original principal amount of $210,000.00, and recorded in Book 15538 at Page 676 of the Wake County Public Registry.

The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2 6 2 8 Iman Dr, Raleigh, NC 27615 Tax Parcel ID: 0196206 Present Record Owners: Michael

D. Webster and Estella Otero Webster The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Michael D. Webster and Estella Otero Webster.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the

highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

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

date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is November 2, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.

LOGS.com Posted: By:

JOSEPH ALBUM 1902 Gumberry Court Hope Mills, NC 28348

Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Plaintiff in the above entitled action has filed with the Clerk of Superior Court’s office of Cumberland County, North Carolina, a civil action concerning one parcel of real property located at 1619 Barmack

note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on December 19, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Four Oaks in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 1 of Edgewood Subdivision, containing 0.332 acres, according to Plat recorded at Plat Book 23, Page 155, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 603 East Sanders Street, Four Oaks, North Carolina.

Parcel ID# 08010018T Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

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

particularly described as follows: Lot No. 2: Beginning at a stake in the right-ofway line of Interstate Highway No. 95, a corner with Lot No. 3, and runs a new line South 56 deg. 30 min East 472 feet to a stake; thence a new line South 62 deg. 45 min West I31 feet to a stake corner of Lot No. 1; thence a new line North 58 deg. 15 min West 469 feet to a stake in the right-of-way line; thence as the rightof-way line North 59. deg. East 140 feet to the beginning, and containing 1.27 acres, more or less. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 858 North Walton Avenue, Benson, North Carolina.

This is Lot. No. 2 according to a plat drawn by W R Lambert, Surveyor, and dated April 11, 1960, showing a portion of the Bessie M. Hall property as divided for her heirs.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

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

The property to be offered

This the 6th day of December, 2023.

HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 8957 - 35164

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 15976 - 73137

Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 110 Frederick St, Suite 200 Greenville, South Carolina 29607 Phone: (470) 321-7112, Ext. 204 Fax: 1-919-800-3528 RAS File Number: [22-044020]

23-116351

B12

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN | STANLY COUNTY JOURNAL

Princess Christmas

Parade participant Harmony Grace waves to the crowd during the Albemarle Christmas Parade on Saturday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign fights holiday impaired driving North Carolina launched a “Booze It & Lose It” campaign this week to combat impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, it focuses on deterring drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and other impairing substances.

Mark Ezzell, director of the GHSP, expressed concern about the heightened risk of impaired driving during the holidays, noting that over 25 percent of North Carolina’s crash fatalities in 2022 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. The N.C. Department of Transportation reported 471 alcohol-related crash fatalities last year.

The campaign highlights the availability of various transportation options, including designated sober drivers and rideshare services to ensure safe travel.

USDA introduces online farm loan applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an innovative online application system for its Direct Loan program.

This initiative is expected to benefit over 26,000 annual applicants, offering a paperless, interactive, and guided process, complete with electronic signature and document upload capabilities.

The tool is part of the USDA’s Farm Service Agency efforts to enhance customer service and increase credit accessibility.

This launch aligns with FSA’s broader initiative to automate and streamline processes, including simplifying the direct loan paper application from 29 to 13 pages and introducing an interactive online guide on farmers.gov to assist with loan product selection and application.

Stanly school board names chair, vice chair for 2024 term Carla Poplin and Bill Sorensen were elected to new leadership positions

tem, starting with awards from the recent North Carolina School Boards Association (NCSBA) Annual Conference in Greensboro.

Endy Elementary School third-grader Carly Bree Honeycutt won second place for the NCSBA elementary poster contest while seven other Stanly students received honorable mentions.

The board then watched NCSBA middle school video contest submissions from North Stanly Middle School and South Stanly Middle School, followed by South Stanly High School’s submission for the NCSBA high school video contest.

On the next agenda item, board members presented Stanly Star award program recognitions to Stanfield Elementary School’s Jessica Dunn and Jamie Hamil-

ton, Stanly STEM Early College High School’s Amanda Hranek and Meika Crump, and West Stanly Middle School’s Brittany Medlin and Kristi Hall.

The board then honored Amanda Yow (Oakboro Choice STEM) and Melissa Terry (Stanly STEM Early College) for winning the District Six Outstanding Elementary and High School Teaching Award from the NC Science Teachers Association (NCSTA).

The annual award is presented to teachers who demonstrate “excellent, creative, and innovative teaching of science” and is determined by other science educators as a recognition of professional excellence and contributions to teaching.

“To all of our teachers and stu-

West Stanly wrestling practice facility reopens after brief closure

“During this inspection, the fire marshal also found that there was not enough ample room in the classrooms or hallways to allow firefighters or safety personnel to gain needed access in case of an emergency in the building,” Benton said.

“Stanly County facility staff — along with custodial support — worked diligently yesterday and today to clear all hallways and provide a three-foot walking path from the windows through the classroom and to the hallways.”

Items were removed from the school and taken to the metal scrap yard and recycling center where SCS received a payment.

While SCS has taken recent actions to remedy the situation, some local parents of West

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — Prior to engaging in its regular agenda items, the Stanly County Board of Education held an organizational session at its Dec. 5 meeting to decide who would be the chair and vice chair for the next year.

Board member Carla Poplin was voted to the board’s chair position — replacing Glenda Gibson’s leadership seat — while Bill Sorensen was voted to the vice chair position that was previously held by Poplin.

As the nomination process for chair began, Gibson nominated

Fire inspectors shut the building on Dec. 1

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — The West Stanly High School and Middle School wrestling teams recently found themselves without a home after their practice facility at Ridgecrest Elementary was shut down by the county’s fire marshal on Dec. 1.

Stanly Fire Marshal Danny Barham has since confirmed to SCJ that the Ridgecrest facility has reopened on Dec. 8 following a satisfactory reinspection.

Both schools were notified that wrestling practices can resume.

Stanly’s fire marshal initially issued a stop-work order and locked the doors of the facility after a fire inspection discovered a failed alarm system, blocked fire exits, and nonfunc-

Poplin and Rufus Lefler subsequently nominated Dustin Lisk.

Poplin won the vote 4-3 with votes from Gibson, Bill Sorensen, Vicky Watson and herself. Lisk also voted for himself and received votes from Lefler and Robin Whitaker.

“Thank you to the board for having confidence in me and allowing me to serve as board chair for this term,” Poplin said.

For the vice chair nomination, Lisk nominated Whitaker while Watson nominated Sorensen.

In another 4-3 split, Sorensen won with votes from Poplin, Gibson, Watson and himself as Whitaker received votes from herself, Lefler and Lisk.

Following the reorganization process, the school board held a series of recognition for honors throughout the school sys-

tional emergency exit signs.

Although the school at Ridgecrest has been closed down for over a decade, the Colts’ wrestling team has used the building as its practice location; West was forced to relocate to West Stanly Middle School while the facility was closed.

Stanly County Schools Maintenance Director Keith Benton and SCS Director of School Safety and Security Jennifer Flowe were notified of the situation by Marshal Barham.

At the Stanly County Board of Education meeting on Dec. 5, Benton addressed the school board with an update, adding that SCS is collaborating with a fire control company and the fire marshal to get the practice facility back and running.

“On Dec. 1, during the inspection, it was found that the analog board and the fire panel were in trouble mode,” Benton said. “Certified installers

Some local parents of West Stanly wrestlers blamed the school district for waiting until fire inspectors forced their hand. have been contacted and we are contracting with them currently right now to purchase the new board and install the new board, which should take place tomorrow.”

He confirmed that a successful fire inspection had been completed in March but that the motherboard of the analog system had been “taken out” by a natural power surge between then and now.

The broken alarm was not the only issue that required a solution.

See SCHOOLS, page 2

See FACILITY, page 2

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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ALBEMARLE CHRISTMAS PARADE

Albemarle and Stanly County braved rainy skies to gather on Saturday, December 9 for the city’s annual Christmas Parade. With Albemarle native Alice “Nanna” Davis serving as grand marshal, the parade lasted more than 20 minutes and included dozens of floats from local businesses, community groups, and non-profits.

BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Albemarle, N.C. 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 STANLYJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

SCHOOLS from page 1

dents that were recognized, congratulations to them,” Gibson said. “I just want to point out that — being a former teacher — it really touches me to see students taking part in preparing and creating the videos that the middle and high school students did. Many years ago, I don’t remember Stanly County students taking part in the poster or the video contests, and now they do. I’m appreciative of everyone that worked on that.”

The Stanly County Board of Education will hold its first meeting of 2024 on Jan. 2 at a location to be determined.

FACILITY from page 1

Stanly wrestlers have blamed the school district for waiting until fire inspectors forced their hand.

During the public comment section of the meeting, concerned parent Matthew Shutt voiced his displeasure with SCS, who he said has used the Ridgecrest facility as a spot to dump old classroom equipment from throughout the county, leading to extensive clutter.

“My son got locked out of his practice facility because we failed,” Shutt said.

“I just overheard a conversation with the gentleman sitting up here that said we just found out about all this. How did you people not know what was going on at the other end of the county and the serious nature of what was going on?

I think everybody up there knew that the ugly property was over there.”

“I appreciate you doing something,” he added. “But let’s make it right. Let’s figure out who failed, how they failed and when they failed to hold them accountable.”

Later in the meeting, Board Member Dustin Lisk agreed with Shutt that the school system had experienced a “breakdown in communication” that needs to be addressed.

PHOTOS BY PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

WEEKLY CRIME LOG

December 5

possession of drug paraphernalia, and a warrant for failure to appear. Her total bond was set at $6,000.

December 6

x Debbie Lynn Morton was arrested and charged with possession of Methamphetamine, possession of Marijuana paraphernalia, and driving with a revoked license.

Her bond was set at $2,000.

x Franklin Grady Moore was arrested and charged with child abuse inflicting serious physical injury.

x Cody Scott Burleson was arrested and charged with solicitation of a child by a computer.

x Randy Eugene Harkey was arrested and charged with larceny of motor vehicle parts, possessing heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, obtaining property by false pretenses, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine, maintain a vehicle/ dwelling/place for control substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Total Bond was set at $67,500.

December 7

December 9

December 11

x Jessica Lynn Harwood was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine,

x Jeffery Daniel Dye was arrested and charged with assault with deadly weapon.

x Justin Wayne Waldroup was arrested and charged with solicitation of a child by a computer.

x Christopher Scott Deruelle was arrested on two counts of felony larceny, misdemeanor larceny, felony possession of stolen goods/property, felony possession of a schedule I controlled substance, and firstdegree trespassing. His total bond is $100,000.

Do you have a birthday, wedding, engagement or other milestone to celebrate?

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

For true evil, look to communism

Vladimir Lenin was a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years.

FOR THOSE DISMAYED at how many college and university students and faculty, even, or especially, at selective and prestigious institutions, have been cheering Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocities and calling, in only slightly veiled language, for the destruction of Israel and genocide of Jews, the question is how this vicious line of thought gained hold in American secondary and higher education.

The answer seems to be that students have been infected, in high schools and colleges, with a virus that enables them to see history only as a struggle between oppressors and the oppressed, between vicious exploiters and virtuous victims.

This obviously owes something to Marxism, which teaches that an oppressed and exploited proletariat will inherit all power — or at least be the beneficiary of the intellectuals who grab it. But that version has had to be revised because contemporary working classes refused to play their assigned roles and mouth the lines that leftist intellectuals dictated to them.

Instead, the script has been adapted to attack other targets, with the vicious oppressors depicted as settlers coming into a new land and the virtuous oppressed depicted as previous residents and indigent peoples. This has the advantage of defining, if you twist the history a few times, the United States and Israel as villain regimes rather than as the historic leaders they have been and are in advancing religious tolerance, freedom of expression, rule of law, and electoral democracy.

One way to put this into perspective is to visit one of Washington, D.C.’s newest and least known museums, the Victims of Communism Museum, on McPherson Square, a few blocks from the White

House. There you will get an idea of what true oppression is like — and how it has slaughtered 100 million people and blighted the lives of hundreds of millions of others.

It’s not a story in which American secondary schools or higher education seem much interested these days. For it tells how small gaggles of would-be intellectuals and violent gang leaders — frequently, as in the case of Joseph Stalin, the same person — gained dictatorial control of enormous nations while posing as champions of the supposedly virtuous, downtrodden masses.

From a combination of visual images and texts, you can learn how Vladimir Lenin was not the mild reformer that some apologists claim but instead a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years. You can read excerpts from Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s “Gulag Archipelago” and view paintings

by Gulag survivors.

There’s a separate section devoted to the Chinese Communist Party, which next year will have been in power for 75 years — one year longer than the run of the Soviet Union. Young people who think it’s cool to wear Mao T-shirts might pay special attention to the exhibits on the 1959-61 Great Leap Forward, which was actually a great leap to starvation for 30 million people.

And Mao’s Cultural Revolution, with its purges of wrong thinkers and executions and rural exiles of professionals, enforced by youthful Red Guards, will have a certain familiar ring for those familiar with contemporary American campuses.

Of particular interest to me were the exhibits on the Baltic States’s self-

liberation from the Soviet Union. I was in Estonia, reporting for U.S. News and World Report, in October 1989, just two months after the human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania marked the 50th anniversary of the Hitler-Stalin pact. I remember the European traffic signal-like signs, with a red diagonal line within a red circle and the numbers 23.08.39 and the names Molotov and Ribbentrop — the foreign ministers who signed the alliance of the two totalitarian tyrants on Aug. 23, 1939.

That enabled Adolf Hitler and Stalin to start dividing up Poland and the Baltics nine days later. The U.S., thankfully, never recognized the Soviet absorption of the Baltics, and today, they and Poland are part of NATO and providing vital aid to Ukraine.

Victims of Communism Museum President Andrew Bremberg tells me that when he asks students how many have heard of Stalin, about 1 out of 10 hands goes up. And when he asks students or adults who has heard of the Hitler-Stalin pact, no one raises a hand.

That’s unfortunate because this alliance of totalitarians, which with its allies controlled almost all of Europe and half of the land mass of Asia by spring 1941, was what inspired George Orwell’s dystopia in “1984.” Had Hitler not attacked Stalin in June 1941, could beleaguered Britain and technically neutral America have ended their totalitarian tyranny?

Young people and their elders who cheer the gleeful torture and murders of Oct. 7 do not understand what true evil is like. They could get a better idea at the Victims of Communism Museum.

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

COLUMN | MATT SEAHOLM

Recycling is real We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today to stay in our economy and out of the environment.

RECYCLING CONTINUES to be the center of environmental conversations these days, especially as we look to reach our shared sustainability goals, increase recycling rates and reduce plastic waste.

Unfortunately, there are still some who claim that plastic recycling will ‘never work,’ and continue to create roadblocks to meeting important sustainability objectives — namely increased recycling rates.

In just the past few years, the plastics industry that we are proud to represent, has announced over $8 billion dollars in investments into new technologies, facilities, and innovations that will make recycling that much more of a reality.

In those same few years, we have seen a dramatic shift in the messaging coming from anti-plastic activist organizations who are more interested in perpetuating a problem rather than solving one. They say things like “plastic recycling is a myth.”

They block compromise legislation. They even tell people not to bother recycling.

That is not environmentalism, and it is why the industry has launched a campaign to say three small words in a big way.

Recycling is real. Tens of thousands of Americans go to work every day making it happen and that is exactly what this new initiative, Recycling Is Real, can show you. We have traveled across America and filmed ordinary people doing

extraordinary things, including right here in North Carolina. We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today, or even the bumper on your car from years past, to stay in our economy and out of the environment, giving it another life, sometimes more than once.

For most, “recyclable” defines whether something can be put into a blue or green bin. But the truth is, that’s only the first step in a process that turns a used product into material that can be made into yet another product.

Recycling is Real highlights the industry’s commitment to recycling by showing who these folks really are and that their role in the circular economy is not fictional or imaginary. From shredding the old material to extruding the new material or creating the equipment that makes it possible to design safe new ways to put more recycled content into products, the people in these videos invite the viewer to come and see what they do, showing us that it’s truly undeniable that recycling is both feasible and economical. Moving forward, this campaign will continue to share examples of recycling success stories.

Naysayers from the anti-recycling groups are likely to say, “If recycling is real, then why are some recycling rates still so low?” That is a fair question and one that can be easily answered. Infrastructure for recycling simply has not kept up with the incredible innovations in products and materials over the past few decades. These include innovations that provide value in other ways like reducing food waste, enhancing safety, and minimizing the

material used to make a product.

We must invest in recycling infrastructure and, as an industry, we understand that we have a role to play in helping to fund that infrastructure. It’s why we support well-constructed extended producer responsibility programs, which place a small fee on products the plastics industry manufactures, especially in packaging. It’s also why the plastics industry supports attainable minimum recycled content requirements that establish guaranteed end-markets for material and in turn, spur private investment. But manufacturers and recyclers cannot increase rates on their own. We need partners ― lawmakers who share our commitment to sustainability and solutions; brand owners dedicated to the use of recycled content in products and packaging, and retail establishments who want to make it as easy as possible to place that used product in the blue bin.

And yes, consumers must be at the heart of this effort by finding that bin and knowing what goes where.

I would encourage you to listen to the words of the workers, including those right here in North Carolina, who proudly show recycling is far from a “myth.” It’s happening every day and once we agree on the reality of recycling and put an end to false narratives, we can work together to get recycling rates where we all want them to be.

Recycling is Real — see for yourself.

Matt Seaholm is President and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association.

3

phy

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Josh Kent takes over as Uwharrie Wampus Cats head coach

Bianca Robinson

The Cats finished their inaugural 2023 season with an 18-17 record

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — Prepping for their second season after an inaugural campaign that wrapped up in July, the Uwharrie Wampus Cats will return to Albemarle’s Don Montgomery Park next May with a new head coach.

Stanly County’s wood-bat collegiate baseball team has announced that Josh Kent, 26, will take over as the Wampus Cats’ new skipper.

Previous coach Houston Wright led Uwharrie to an 1817 winning record in the team’s first season where over 6,000 fans attended home games.

“I am super excited for the opportunity to get my first summer underway as the head coach of the Wampus Cats,” Kent said in a Nov. 29 press release. “I can’t wait to represent the city of Albemarle and give the Albemarle area a great season to look forward to. We are going to have an amazing group of guys that the fans are going to love.”

With a new coaching opportunity arriving, Kent has said he’s looking forward to helping the Wampus Cats improve as a team and as individual players.

“I want our players to get better every day, compete and have fun. I want to give players the opportunity to become leaders on our team so they can go back to their schools in the fall ready to add to their programs.”

Kent spent the 2023 baseball season as a graduate assistant coach at Carolina University in Winston-Salem. Prior to beginning his coaching tenure, he played as a second and third baseman at the NCAA Division II level before joining

PJ WARD-BROWN | STANLY COUNTY JOURNAL

Albemarle, girls’ basketball The Albemarle girls’ basketball team produces our athlete of the week for the second week in a row. Bianca Robinson follows teammate Amari Baldwin, who won last week. Robinson, a junior, helped the 4-1 Bulldogs split their two games this week, losing, 87-72 to North Rowan, then beating West Stanly 67-40, three days later.

The 6-foot-1 Robinson provides a strong post presence for the Bulldogs, giving them an inside-out game with the deep-shooting and playmaking threat Baldwin.

North Stanly girls’ basketball off to perfect start to season The Comets have won all nine of their games

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal NEW LONDON — After a stretch of 40 combined wins in the past two seasons, the North Stanly girls’ basketball team has carried that success into its 2023-24 campaign with a 9-0 undefeated start.

In a month-long stretch of dominance, third-year coach Regan Allen’s Comet offense has

more than doubled the amount of points scored by its opponents (523-235), limiting teams to under 54 points in all nine games.

Reigning Yadkin Valley Conference Player of the Year Shalyn Bell has continued and expanded her stellar play of the prior season, producing 22.6 points and 15.6 rebounds per game after averaging 20.4 points and 14 rebounds last year.

In a 79-14 home win over Monroe (1-4) on Nov. 22, the junior forward’s performance was crucial to her team’s blowout victory as she racked up a team-

5

high 42 points, 23 rebounds and ten steals.

Bell isn’t the only Comet who has elevated her team thus far.

Senior point guard Giavonna Dunlap has provided North with 12.3 points, 5.1 assists and 5.3 steals per game, while sophomore guard Lexie Brown has notched 6.8 points and 3.1 assists.

With North’s deep lineup and bench reserves, a dozen different Comets have put points on the board.

Holding a winning streak intact as conference play begins

Call us today!

Reigning Yadkin Valley Conference Player of the Year Shalyn Bell has continued and expanded her stellar play of the prior season. on Jan. 5 against Union Academy (5-1), North is hoping to reclaim the YVC title it earned for the 2021-22 season with a 10-0 conference record.

Last season, the Comets (206, 8-2 YVC) finished second in the Yadkin Valley Conference behind Albemarle (22-5, 9-1 YVC), who appears to be in the early stages of another strong season too — North is set to face the Bulldogs (4-1) on Jan. 23 and

the Carolina University Bruins as a shortstop.

In his senior season with the Bruins, he hit a dozen home runs and batted .359 as his team finished second in the nation at the Division I level within the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).

Kent also has baseball experience playing with the Galion Graders of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League, a National Alliance of College Summer Baseball affiliate.

Wampus Cats co-owner and president Greg Sullivan said he’s appreciative of Wright’s performance as Uwharrie’s first head coach and that he’s excited for another year of potential growth as Kent takes the helm.

“Coach Wright did a great job for us building a competitive roster in Year 1 this past summer and got talented, hard-working players who bought into what we’re doing in Albemarle,” Sullivan stated in a team press release. “We expect to have some returners and have also begun adding some exciting new players to the mix. We’re excited to see how Coach Kent can build on the work we’ve started here as we get set to bring in a challenging slate of new opponents this year.”

Playing independently of a league in 2023, the Cats experienced the normal ups and downs of a young team in its first season but finished strong with 10-3 home win over the Winston-Salem-based Carolina Disco Turkeys (a team also owned by Sullivan), a 7-2 home win over the Race City Bootleggers and a 5-2 road win over the Disco Turkeys.

The Cats impressed in their budding rivalry with the Disco Turkeys, winning six of 11 matchups against the more-experienced club this past summer.

Feb. 13.

While the Comets fell short of the conference crown last season, they did earn a different accomplishment: they got their first playoff win since the 201516 season as they hosted and defeated Pine Lake Prep 64-47 in the 2A bracket. The Comets went on to lose at East Rutherford 8854 in the second round.

As the 2023-24 season marches on, North has two non-conference matchups coming up, hosting West Stanly on Thursday (2-4) and South Rowan (1-3) on Friday before gearing up for a trip to Forest Hills (2-2) on Monday.

With a true star talent in Bell and a viable contributing cast of experienced players, North is primed to ride the good fortune it has experienced since mid-November.

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

The GOP’s slim House majority is getting even tighter with Kevin McCarthy’s retirement The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Speaker Mike Johnson’s margin for error in getting Republican priorities through the House is getting slimmer, complicating future votes and magnifying the ability of individual lawmakers to force concessions.

Republicans had just a 222213 margin before Rep. George Santos of New York was expelled in a broad, bipartisan vote a week ago. Then, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California announced Thursday he would be retiring at the end of the month. He was the first speaker ever booted from the position, a victim of a process he had agreed to implement that allowed just a few defections from within the GOP ranks to oust him.

The margins before both representatives’ exits allowed Republicans to lose up to four votes on a party-line ballot and still get a bill over the finish line, assuming every lawmaker was in attendance.

Now that margin is down to three votes. It could even drop to two if Democrats flip the Santos seat in a special election set for Feb. 13, which would leave their majority at 220-214.

Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio, is also expected to leave to begin a new job as president of Youngstown State University.

It’s unclear when he’ll begin that job, but it’s no later than March 15.

Practical impact “It just makes everything harder. It’s just that simple,” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. “You

AP PHOTO

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., criticizes President Joe Biden’s policies and efforts on the debt limit negotiations as he holds a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, May 17, 2023. have to have perfect attendance, which is hard to get. And you have to have perfect agreement, which is damn hard to get.”

Looking ahead to 2024, the 11-term congressman from Oklahoma also noted that lawmakers during election years look to spend more time back in their congressional districts than in Washington, leaving the focus on the most basic functions of government — namely

a spending bill to keep agencies and programs functioning.

“I just don’t see much in the way of major legislative accomplishments next year with the margins this narrow and government this divided,” he said.

Others see a rather muted impact. After all, the GOP’s narrow margin for error has already proven difficult for the party’s leaders to overcome.

It took McCarthy 15 votes to

finally be elected speaker once the new Congress began in January. And that was only the beginning of his troubles.

The House’s staunchest conservatives brought the chamber to a standstill after he made an agreement with the White House in May that did not cut spending as much as they wanted. And then, when the House ousted McCarthy in October, Republicans cycled through

Two networks announce GOP presidential debates just days apart at same New Hampshire school The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two television networks announced they would hold separate Republican presidential debates at the same location in New Hampshire just ahead of that state’s GOP primary next month, but officials at Saint Anselm College said they were only aware of one of the events.

CNN said that it would host a Jan. 10 debate at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, five days before the state’s first-in-the-nation caucuses, and a Jan. 21 debate at Saint Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire, two days before that state’s leadoff primary.

Later, ABC News and WMURTV announced that they would partner for a Jan. 18 debate at Saint Anselm College.

Neil Levesque, executive director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm, told The Associated Press he was not aware of any planning for an event with CNN. “I have no idea about anything with any other network,” Levesque said, referring to the CNN event.

Levesque was quoted in a news release about the ABC and WMUR-TV debate, noting that

AP PHOTO

Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy participate in a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by NewsNation on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at the Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. both Democratic and Republican candidates had participated in debates at the college in every presidential cycle since 2008.

No Saint Anselm official was quoted in CNN’s release about its Iowa and New Hampshire debates, although Drake University — the site of CNN’s Iowa debate — did issue its own news release

about that event.

A CNN spokesperson on Friday declined to “speak to any miscommunication within Saint Anselm” but said in a statement that the network was “moving forward with our plans to host a debate in New Hampshire on January 21.”

The debate announcements

came a day after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie met for the fourth debate of the 2024 primary season.

Former President Donald Trump, the GOP front-runner for the 2024 nomination, has yet to take

three potential replacements before finally landing on Johnson.

How much harder could it really get?

“Clearly, I’d rather move from four to six than from four to two,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., of the Republican voting cushion. “But I wouldn’t want to overstate the impact.”

Prospects for another speaker revolt?

It takes only one member of the House to make a motion to remove the speaker, or “vacate the chair.” Johnson has generated some grumbling from members, but they also seem more sympathetic to the difficulties he faces in getting House Republicans to unite on major legislation.

Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., one of McCarthy’s most trusted advisers, said the last thing many members want is to go down the same road as they did with McCarthy.

“Is there risk, yes, because you still have the one-member motion to vacate,” Graves said.

“Risk, yes. Likely, no.”

He said, “There’s a lot of scar tissue within the conference.”

Members who put themselves up for the job of speaker were attacked by their colleagues. Others were offended by the total number of votes they ended up getting. There’s not an appetite to repeat that process.

“The other reason that I don’t think it’s likely is because more people are coming to the realization that leading in this environment is really hard,” Graves said.

part in any debate and has said he doesn’t plan to.

The RNC said in a statement Friday that the debates scheduled for January were not affiliated with the RNC but that candidates would be permitted to participate if they wanted to.

“Candidates are free to use any forum or format to communicate to voters as they see fit,” the RNC said.

The qualifications for candidates to participate in the debates are getting stricter. To qualify for CNN’s Iowa debate, candidates must register at least 10% support in three separate polls, either nationally or in Iowa, according to CNN. CNN said candidates who finish in one of the top three spots in the Iowa caucuses would be invited to participate in its New Hampshire debate, as well as those who meet CNN’s polling qualification, which include a 10% polling threshold in New Hampshire.

One of the three polls must be an approved CNN poll from the respective state. Unlike previous debates approved by the RNC, participants are not required to meet fundraising marks from a specific number of donors.

The qualifying window for the Iowa debate closes Jan. 2. It’s Jan. 16 for the New Hampshire debate.

ABC and WMUR-TV did not specify qualifications for their New Hampshire debate, saying the information would be released at a later date.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

obituaries obituaries

Barbara Jean Dowd F. Greene, (Taylor) Drye Jr. 14, 2023 April 17, 1936 ~ January

May 26, 1945 — December Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, 4, 2023 of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at her home.

Barbara AprilJr., 17,of 1936 Dowdwas F. born Greene, in North Carolina the late Robert Stanfield, NC,towent to his Leeheavenly Taylor and the late Eva Belle father December Watts Taylor.at the age of 78, 4, 2023 She was also preceded in and death surrounded by family by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr friends at his home, after a Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee lengthy battle with Dementia.

Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Dowd was born May 26, Taylor.

1945 in Mecklenburg County Survivors include children, to the late Williams Dowd F, of Greene, Debbie (Mike) Sr. and Nell Purser Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Greene Curry of Stanfield, NC.(Tammy) He has one of Oakboro, Douglas surviving sister, Margaret Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Greene Furr (Robert) and one Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, preceded in death, Frances Samantha (Destiny) Smith of GreeneBradley Hinson (Terry) of Oakboro, Smith of Oakboro, Oakboro.

Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and is survived by his wife Jessie He Stover of Lylesville; sisterandBeatrice love of his life, Paulette in-law, Goodman; many W. Greene, childhood nieces and nephews; andsweetheart her beloved and partner of 57 cats, Bo business and Garfield. years. He has two daughters, Barbara was a member of Angela Denise Greene of Oakboro Baptist Church for over and Beth Anne 60 Stanfield years. She worked over 30 years Greene JanieriMills.

(Chris) ofjust at Stanly Knitting After twoAlbemarle. years of retirement, she began managing thegraduated Oakboro Senior Dowd in the Center did that for 18 years firstand graduating class of West until this past week.

Barbara was Stanly High School in 1963, known her good cooking and and for started in the Overhead always taking care of She also Door business inothers.

1963 with loved going onDoor day long shopping Crawford of Charlotte. as said he trips she could out walk and out In- 1968 he joined Overhead shop people half her age.under She kept Door of Charlotte tatement hermanagement mind and bodyatactive thatthrough time cheduled gardening, wordNathanson searches, and with Louis doing affiliated various other hobbies. specialty work of Rolling Steel andidates articipate Doors, seals, shelters and pit type levelers. o use any In 1971 he joined Masonic municate Lodge 318 in Midland. In 1970 the RNC he started Greene's Trucking Company along with the door or candi- business hauling Rolling Steel e debates Doors south from Pennsylvania ualify for Door to five states; Georgia, andidates North Carolina, South 10% sup- Carolina, Tennessee and lls, either Florida. In 1985 he formed according Greene's Overhead Doors until present date, doing residential, who fin- commercial and industrial ree spots doors, both new work and would be repairs. Dowd worked with n its New some of the best people as well as customers and friends. These N’s poll- people were not only customers h include but became long time friends. d in New He was devoted to making his customers pleased with his s must be work. From 1985 until 1995 from the he installed and sold metal previous buildings and was a distributor he RNC, for American Buildings. He quired to served three terms on the s from a Stanfield Town Board from 1973 - 1975, 1975 - 1977 and rs. ow for the from 1991 - 1993.

2. It’s Jan. Dowd was a devoted father, shire de- husband, and friend to many and will be sorely missed. He V did not was known for his laughter and for their loyalty to family and friends ate, say- and was loved by many, both uld be re- business and personal.

Dwight Farmer Jennings January 24, 1939 ~Farrell January 15, 2023 Ridenhour

Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, December 11, 1933 - December of Norwood died Sunday morning, 7, 2023 January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes.

Dwight was born January 24, 1939Jennings in Stanly County the late FarrelltoRidenhour, Walter 89, ofVirgil Goldand HillMartha passedAdkins away Farmer.

He was a 1957 graduate Thursday, December 7, 2023 ofat Norwood High School and was his home.

The family a United Statesfriends Army Veteran. will receive Friday He was a member of Cedar Grove December 22, from 12:45 United where he PM toMethodist 1:45 PMChurch at Stanly had served Home as church and Funeral in treasurer Albemarle. choir member.

He began his career A graveside service will follow with Stanly County Sheriff’ thethe receiving of friends at s Department movingoftoMemory the Norwood Stanly Gardens at Police Department and retiring as 2 PM with Pastor Ron Loflin Chief of Police with the Town of officiating.

Norwood many years of service.

Bornafter December 11, 1933, an avidhe gardener, inDwight Stanlywas County, was bird Carolina fan. thewatcher son of and the late Elbert He is survived by his wife Hilda Ray Ridenhour and Geneva Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Rebecca Burris Ridenhour. He Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, was a graduate of Albemarle NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer High School, class of 1951.

Lowe (David) of Norwood; one Farrell joinedDennis the USofNavy sister Geraldine Troy; two and served for two years and grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” transferred the US AirHui Farmer III andto Whitley Rose Force where he retired as a Lowe.

Major. graduated from He wasHe preceded in death by NC a bachelor’s his sonState Alex,with brothers, Tommy and degree in Textiles later Jimmy, sisters, Nancy,and Cornelia graduated fromMae, the Citadel Annabell, Glennie and Betty. with a master’s in made education.

Memorials may be to Cedar He taught school math in Grove Unitedhigh Methodist Church, South Carolina for many years.

Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Farrell willRocky be remembered Smith 36071 River Springsby his love of God, Country, Road, Norwood, NChis 28128. and family. He was very passionate about being present for family reunions. He was a lifelong learner and teacher, very independent, and enjoyed learning how things work. Over the past twenty years, Farrell split time between North Carolina and Florida.

Mr. Ridenhour is survived by two daughters, Beth Drye and husband Randy of Richfield, and Jennifer Senf and husband Scott of Mt. Pleasant, SC. He is also survived by grandchildren Katie Wood (Tim), Caroline Wade (Michael), Allie Shelby (Creighton), Sarah Drye, one great-grandson William Wood and niece, Tonia Turner.

In addition to his parents, Farrell is preceded in death by his wife of thirty-two years, Dorothy Mae Topps Ridenhour, brother Ernest Ridenhour, nephew Buddy Ridenhour and niece Sherry Ridenhour.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

James Roseboro Frances Ann June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023 Windell James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of

Albemarle, away Tuesday, 5, May 29,passed 1947 — December January 10, 2023 at Anson Health 2023 and Rehab.

Mr. Roseboro was born on 76, Frances Ann Windell, June 23, 1967 to the late Robert of Charlotte, passed away and DelenaDecember Shipp Roseboro.

He at Tuesday, 5, 2023 graduated from South Stanly Carolinas Medical Center in High School and was employed by Charlotte surrounded by her Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching loving family. football and basketball, especially the AnnTarHeels was born May 29, 1947 Carolina and Miami. inInJeffersonville, Indianahetois addition to his parents the latein Clara William preceded deathand by his brothers Abernathy. and sisters: Barbara Lee Roseboro, She Brown, was also preceded in Dorothy Verna Roseboro, death by sister, Anita Lee. Henrietta Ingram, and Harold Ann was a good and Roseboro. faithful servant Lord.

He is survived byof histhe sisters: She was a very devoted Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards member to ofChristian Albemarle,and Mary Roseboro RiverDC, Presbyterian ofRocky Washington and Marion Church of where she served in Morrison Albemarle; brothers: many of ministries.

She Thomas D.it's Roseboro of Charlotte, was aRoseboro Registered Nurseoffor Robert (Patricia) the majority of her life, awhere Norwood, and Van Horne; special she was licensed in Michelle 3 different friend of over 40 years, states. She from her McLendon of retired the home; special nieces: Montague, Knya careerNybrea at Mercy Hospital as Little, and Laquanza Crump; the Nurse Educator.

Ann special nephews: Robert Jr., devoted Desmond was a loving and Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and daughter, sister, wife, mother, God daughter, Daphne Johnson; grandmother and friend to and special many.friends, Vetrella Johnson and Ben The McLendon. memorial service will be on Friday, December 8, 2023 at 11:00 am at Rocky River Presbyterian Church at 7940 Rocky River Road, Concord, NC 28025 officiated by Rev Neal Carter.

Survivors include her husband, Robert James Windell of Charlotte, NC; daughter, Jennifer Windell of Winston-Salem, NC; son, Chuck (Amanda) Windell of Mooresville, NC; grandsons, Andrew Landsbergen of Winston-Salem, NC; Carter, Mason and Pierce Windell all of Mooresville, NC; sister, Kathy (Tom) Peak of IN; brothers, William Abernathy of IN, Robert Abernathy January 7, (Delynn) 1973 ~ January 8, of TX; and brother-in-law, 2023 Anthony A. (Jane) Windell of Charlotte, NC. Baldwin, age 50, Darrick Vashon entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina.

Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin.

Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.

He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.

He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.

He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree.

We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

Darrick Baldwin

John B. Kluttz Clydene March 23, 1935 -Kime January 9,

7

7

Doris Jones Robert Herbert Coleman Dikeman October 11, 1944 - January 10,

2023 January 19, 1939 - December 8, 2023 2023 John grew up in the Millingport March 8, 1929 — December 5, community where he drove a school 2023 Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, Clydene Dunn Kime, bus and worked at the local84, gas went home into God’s presence on of Mt. Gilead, passed station during his High away School years.

January 10 after a sudden illness and December 8, 2023 at her Robert Herbert Dikeman, He graduated from Millingport a valiant week-long fight in ICU. childhood home in the very 94, of Harrisburg, NC, passed High in 1954 and entered into Doris was born on October room which sheAirforce was born. away Tuesday, December 5, 11, serviceinwith the US 1944,atinConcord the mountains Marion, Clydene was born on January 2023 PlaceofAssisted immediately afterward. Upon NC while her father was away 19, 1939 in Montgomery County Living Concord, NC. return from the service, he and his fighting the US Navy during high sweetheart Julie were to theschool late Clyde Vernon and Robertinwas born March 8, World War II. Raymond Jones was married in 1956.Dunn.

He graduated from Lula Robinson She was a 1929 in Woodside, New York to so proud to return after the war and Nashville Auto DieselGilead CollegeHigh later in the graduate of Mount late John Dikeman and the meet his little girl! Doris grew up in 1959 and began his career as a diesel School and a member at Bethel late Anna (Burns) Dikeman.

Durham, NC and graduated from mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Baptist Church.

Clydene was He wasHigh preceded death by Durham School.inShe furthered Company,tomoving growing married Davidhis ‘Punch’ Kime. his wife of 61 years, Marilyn, her studies at Watts Hospital family to served Charlotte they lived his The two inwhere the Ministry daughter, Patricia, his and School of Nursing in Durham until their retirement. for the majority of their life. grandson, Nicholas Ambrosio, graduated as a Registered Nurse in When John purchased his first In addition to her parents, and his four brothers - Fred, 1966.

Model A Ford at the age of 17, she is preceded in death by he David, Buddy, and Jimmy - and Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted saidhusband, that he took the car to theand her Punch Kime three sisters Clarise, Anna, Coleman in 1966 and had two community sister Zona mechanic Liner. when he had and Marion. daughters Amy and Laura. Doris a small problem.The mechanic told She is survived by her In his retirement, spent raised Amy and LauraBob in North him that ifDavid he wasKime going to keep the his time enjoying children: (Cheryl) his children Augusta, SC. car, he needed to learn to work on and Laura Anderson (Jimmy), andDoris grandchildren, rooting for was an incredible neonatal it.

This is when John’ s passion for of Mt. Gilead; grandchildren: his New York sports teams, and intensive care nurse for most of her ModelJake A Fords began and how he TSgt Kime (Taylor) of San living life tothis thewas fullest. career, and her passion. spent his happiest days with his best Antonio, TX, Daniel Kime of Survivors include his friends from around the globe for the The Augusta Chronicle did a feature Seagrove, Carson Anderson daughters, Jennifer Dikeman on her in 1985.

She was a clinical rest of his life!

(Kristin) of Columbus, NC, (wife Elena Acero) of Westbury, nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia At age 50, after years as a Detroit LCpl of NY, Marilyn Hospital BrinkleyNICU and at University DieselRexanne MechanicAnderson he and Julie worked there forof20 years. During Dam Neck, VA,the and Kristian (husband Jim) Oxford, NC, decided to take plunge and this time, Doris mentored young Kime Ellen Kaiser of Harrisburg, open aLynthacum full Model A (Taylor) Restoration nurses assisted in saving the of Mt.They Gilead; fiveatgreatNC, andand Jean Ambrosio Shop. thrived their shop in lives of so many babies.

She also grandchildren: Leah, Bo, Reed, (husband Joe) of Harrisburg, Cornelius, NC until their retirement worked for Pediatrician Dr. William Addie, and Madi.

NC, his sons, Robert (wife in 1998 when they moved back to A. Wilkes in Augusta for several Julie) of Richland, WA, and Cabarrus County. John once again years prior to Dee) her NICU career. Doris George (wife of Needville, set up shop in his back yard garage retired the mother/baby area at TX, his from 13 grandchildren, and where he attracted a loyal group of Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 three great grandchildren. friends who visited almost daily. years of nursing.

While on the farm in Gold Hill, Doris was a gentle and sweet John also began a lifelong love with spirit and loved her Lord. She never Alis Chalmers tractors after he met a stranger, and she always left restored his Dad’s tractor and began you feeling uplifted after talking amassing his collection of tractors with her.

She would often claim that as well. she had “adopted” friends into her John restored many cars of immediate family, and honestly, she his own and had the crowning never made a distinction between achievement of winning the most the two. Positivity radiated from her prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her top points. He was also presented lifetime she was an active member with the Ken Brady Service Award of First Baptist Church of Durham, the highest award given to members First Baptist Church of Augusta, at the national level.

Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church This is what John’s Model A in Augusta, and Palestine United Community had1948 to say— upon September 28, DecemMethodist Church in Albemarle. learning ofber his 5, death: 2023 She especially loved helping at He was an active member of church with older adults, youth, and Wesley Chapel Methodist Church Nella Mae Linker, 75, children. where he lovedpassed servingaway as greeter on of Charlotte, She was especially talented Sunday mornings.

He5, also belonged Tuesday, December 2023, at sewing from a young age and toAtrium the United Methodist Men.in at Health Pineville February 8, — Christmas December made gifts for1929 friends, John is survived by his wife Charlotte.

6, 2023 Costumes, ornaments, Halloween Julie Ussery Kluttz, 66 years Mrs. Linker wasfor born doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom of the home.

He is also survived September 28, 1948, in Henrycoats, Hoover 94, dresses, tote Nance, bags, scarves, by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) Charleston, West Virginia to of Matthews, passed away outfits for Amy and Laura, and of Oakboro, NC;Reed two daughters, the late Wyatt Derrick Christening gowns for each her Wednesday, December 6, of 2023 Sallythe Simerson of Denver, and and late Rose MarieCO Price grandchildren. at Pruitt Health-Union Pointe Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; Derrick.

Doris was preceded in death by in Monroe. three Kluttz Shegrandchildren, was precededBonnie in death her father Arthur Mr. Nance wasRaymond born Jones, Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC by her husband, Mr. Alex her mother Mary Ellen Cameron February 8, 1929 in North John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) Linker Jones, andtoher Carolina thesister lateMaryanne Jonah of Asheville, NC and Seth William The love for her family and Jones Brantley.

Nance and Cora Rachel Nance.

McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; friends was profound. She Survivors her two Henry wasinclude preceded in five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, enjoyed every minute of life, precious daughters: Amy Cameron death by his son, Henry Meredith, Grant, Victoria and ColemanNance, (partner traveling with family and in Hoover Jr.Dr. Edward Neal Ronan. John is also preceded Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and friends and spending every Survivors include son, death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio free minute with Kelsey and Dennis Nance of Matthews, Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large (husband David) Cincinnati, Kyle.

The loves life along daughter, RachelofMoore of Ohio; and loving groupof ofher brothers and seven grandchildren: Cameron with her two dogs Amiee and Lancaster, SC, daughter, sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie David Purser Oliverio,ofStephanie Jaeson, Dejak, Forest andHoneycutt, the ParrotJake Rhett.

Susan Cornelius, Lou Kluttz Nelson Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman Survivors include son, Ryan Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Jeff Nance of Matthews, andJohn Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan (Carlyn) Linker of Harrisburg, Phillips and a grandson, Kevin daughter, Amy Lewis of Mint Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard NC, granddaughter, Kelsey Fowler Kluttz.

Hill.

Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, Linker of Concord, grandson, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved Kyle Linker of Wilmington, ones.

NC, twin sister Vella and her two sons, Brian and Kenny

Nella Mae Linker

Henry Hoover Nance

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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STATE & NATION Biden administration says New Hampshire computer chip plant the first to get funding from CHIPS law The Associated Press

puter chip supplies as a worldwide shortage curbed U.S. auto production and pushed up prices around the start of Biden’s presidency.

“Over the coming year, the Department of Commerce will award billions more to make

more semiconductors in America, invest in research and development capabilities to keep America at the forefront of new technologies,” Biden said in a statement.

Biden also said the incentives his administration is providing

have already led to more than $230 billion in planned investments in semiconductors and electronics.

The Democratic president has gone to a planned Intel factory in Ohio and a new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plant in Arizona, as well as touted investments by IBM while in New York. Biden has made these financial commitments part of his pitch to voters ahead of the 2024 elections, saying his policies have energized the U.S. economy.

Government officials said the investment in the BAE Systems’ facility will ultimately save money for taxpayers. The money being paid out as the company hits benchmarks will help quadruple the plant’s production capacity, helping to halve the price of making the chips and leading to net savings for the federal agencies buying the chips.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said NATO allies and partners in Asia also will benefit from the increased capacity. But he stressed that an expanded manufacturing base was essential to protect the U.S. “We do not want to be in a position where critical national security needs are dependent on faulty foreign supply chains,” Sullivan said. “We do not want to be in a position where another country can cut us off in a moment of crisis.”

The NRA has a surprising defender in its free speech case before the Supreme Court: the ACLU

lence political speech.”

The nation’s highest court is set to hear arguments early next year in a case centered on comments former New York State Department of Financial Services superintendent Maria Vullo made in the wake of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

After 17 people were killed at the Parkland, Florida, school, Vullo called on banks and insurance companies operating in New York to discontinue their association with gun-promoting groups.

In letters to companies and news releases, she urged operators to consider “reputational risks” from doing business with the NRA and other gun groups.

The NRA sued Vullo after multiple entities cut ties or decided not to do business with the Fairfax, Virginia-based organization. The federal appeals court in New York rejected the NRA’s claims, saying Vullo acted in good faith and within the bounds of her job.

Spokespersons for New York’s financial services department didn’t respond to an email seeking comment Saturday.

But the ACLU, in additional comments posted on X, argued that if the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene, it could create a “dangerous playbook” for regulatory agencies across the

country to blacklist or punish “viewpoint-based organizations” including abortion rights groups, environmental groups and even the ACLU itself.

“The questions at the core of this case are about the First Amendment and the principled defense of civil liberties for all, including those with whom we disagree on the Second Amendment,” the ACLU wrote. “We won’t let the rights of organizations to engage in political advocacy be trampled.”

The announcement, which comes as the NRA and the gunrights movement broadly has proven resilient amid the nation’s ceaseless mass shootings and gun violence, was criticized by at least one prominent ACLU affiliate.

The New York Civil Liberties Union, in a statement, said it “strongly disagrees” with the decision and would not participate in the case, even though it originated in New York.

“The important First Amendment issue in the case is well-established, the NRA is one of the most powerful organizations in the country and has sophisticated counsel, and representing the NRA directly risks enormous harm to the clients and communities the ACLU and NYCLU work with and serve,” Executive Director Donna Lieberman said in an emailed statement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden administration announced the first of many coming federal investments in computer chip production, saying Monday that it would provide $35 million for BAE Systems to increase production at a New Hampshire factory making chips for military aircraft, including F-15 and F-35 jets.

This would be the initial allocation of incentives from last year’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which provides more than $52 billion to boost the development and manufacturing of semiconductors in the United States.

The Commerce Department’s choice of a military contractor instead of a conventional chip manufacturer reveals the national security focus of the law, as more and more weapons systems depend on advanced chips that could be decisive in both preventing and fighting wars.

“We can’t gamble with our national security by depending solely on one part of the world or even one country for crucial advanced technologies,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who called the investments a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance our national and economic security and create a thriving, long-lasting domestic semiconductor manufacturing industry.”

President Joe Biden signed

PHOTO COURTESY BAE SYSTEMS

The new funding should help speed production of the F-35 aircraft. the incentives into law in August 2022 partly out of concerns that a military attack on Taiwan could deprive the world of advanced computer chips and plunge the U.S. into a recession.

The coronavirus pandemic revealed the fragility of com-

The Associated Press NEW YORK — In a case of politics making strange bedfellows, the National Rifle Association will be represented by frequent nemesis the American Civil Liberties Union in an appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The New York-based civil liberties group confirmed Saturday that it would provide legal representation for the gun-rights group in its First Amendment case against New York’s Department of Financial Services even as it “vigorously” opposes nearly everything it stands for.

“We don’t support the NRA’s mission or its viewpoints on gun rights, and we don’t agree with their goals, strategies, or tactics,” the ACLU in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “But we both know that government officials can’t punish organizations because they disapprove of their views.”

The NRA, which reshared the

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH SATE JOURNAL

The ACLU is backing the NRA in a free speech fight before the Supreme Court.

ACLU’s statement on its social media account, wrote in a follow-up post that it was “proud”

to stand with the ACLU and others who recognize that “regulatory authority cannot be used to si-

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

SPORTS

NBA

Voters consider sales tax for new $1B Thunder arena Oklahoma City Oklahoma City voters will decide whether to approve a 1% sales tax to fund a new downtown arena for the NBA’s Thunder. The vote on the six-year tax is set for Tuesday. Under a proposed agreement with the team’s owners, the team would stay in the city through at least 2050 if it’s approved. Local leaders say the new arena will continue Oklahoma City’s momentum as a toptier city. But many city residents are concerned the team’s owners, who are some of the wealthiest Oklahomans, are contributing only 5% of the cost of the new arena.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Bronny James makes college debut for USC Los Angeles Bronny James had four points, three rebounds and two assists in his college debut for Southern California nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest. Playing in front of his father, LeBron James, the 19-yearold freshman logged 16 minutes in the Trojans’ 8479 overtime loss to Long Beach State. James shot 1 of 3, making a 3-pointer in the second half. Later, he made a huge block that drew cheers. The younger James suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout on campus.

He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.

WNBA

Fever win WNBA Draft lottery top pick again Uncasville, Conn.

The Indiana Fever won the WNBA Draft lottery Sunday and will pick No. 1 for the second straight year. The Fever, who took Aliyah Boston last season with the top pick, will now have to wait and see which players decide to enter the draft. Generational talents Caitlin Clark of Iowa, UConn’s Paige Bueckers and LSU’s Angel Reese all have the option to return to school for another season due to the extra year they were granted for the coronavirus. Los Angeles has the No. 2 pick with Phoenix choosing third and Seattle fourth.

NFL

Chargers QB Herbert fractures right index finger Inglewood, Calif.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert fractured the index finger on his right hand in the second quarter of Los Angeles’ 24-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday, jeopardizing his streak of 62 consecutive regular season starts on a short week for his struggling team. Coach Brandon Staley said the Chargers’ medical staff will do more tests before determining whether Herbert will miss their next game Thursday at Las Vegas. The Chargers (58) have only three days to prepare for the Raiders.

If Herbert can’t play, backup Easton Stick seems likely to become only the Chargers’ fourth starting quarterback since 2007.

AP PHOTO

Shohei Ohtani signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract to join the nearby Dodgers.

Ohtani agrees to record $700M, 10-year deal with Dodgers The two-way superstar twice won AL MVP with the Angels The Associated Press NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani has set a financial record to go along with his singular on-field performance, getting $700 million to make a 30-mile move up Interstate 5 to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a midafternoon news release Saturday announcing the 10-year contract, ending months of speculation that began even before Ohtani became a free agent on Nov. 2. In recent days, media and fans had tracked private plane movements and alleged sightings like detectives in attempts to discern the intentions of the twotime AL MVP with the Angels.

“This is a unique, historic contract for a unique, historic player,” Balelo said. “He is excited to begin this partnership, and he structured his contract to reflect a true commitment from both sides to long-term success.”

Ohtani’s total was 64% higher than baseball’s previous record,

a $426.5 million, 12-year deal for Angels outfielder Mike Trout that began in 2019.

His $70 million average salary is 62% above the previous high of $43,333,333, shared by pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander with deals they struck with the New York Mets.

Ohtani’s average salary nearly doubles the roughly $42.3 million he earned with the Angels.

It also exceeds the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland this year.

His agreement includes unprecedented deferred money that will lower the amount it counts toward the Dodgers’ luxury tax payroll, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the details were not announced.

This is perhaps the largest contract in sports history, topping highs believed to be set by soccer stars Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

There was no immediate comment by the Dodgers. Ohtani has not spoken with reporters since Aug. 9.

“I apologize for taking so long

$70M Annual salary for Shohei Ohtani in his new deal with the Dodgers, more than the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland last season. to come to a decision,” Ohtani said in an English-language statement on Instagram. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved with the Angels organization and the fans who have supported me over the past six years, as well as to everyone involved with each team that was part of this negotiation process.

“And to all Dodgers fans, I pledge to always do what’s best for the team and always continue to give it my all to be the best version of myself,” he continued. “Until the last day of my playing career, I want to continue to strive forward not only for the Dodgers but for the baseball

world.”

Ohtani joins a lineup that also includes 2018 AL MVP Mookie Betts and 2020 NL MVP Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers won the NL West this year for the 10th time in 11 seasons before they were swept by Arizona in the Division Series in October.

Los Angeles begins the 2024 season in Seoul, South Korea, against San Diego on March 2021.

Ohtani’s decision came six years and one day after he first agreed to his deal with Angels.

Ohtani has redefined modern baseball since he chose the Angels as his first major league team. Nobody has come close to matching his achievements at the plate and on the mound, becoming one of the majors’ elite players in both roles when healthy. Along the way, he has become one of the most marketable athletes in the world, a force when it comes to ticket sales, TV ratings and sponsorship revenue.

He was a unanimous AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 — he finished second in 2022 — winning this year despite injuring his elbow in late August and an oblique muscle in early September.

Two local tractor pullers honored at UPOC awards banquet Noble Hinshaw enters HOF, Wyatt Pickler wins Rookie of the Year

“It’s been about 40 years since I did it, but I’m glad to be around to get it.”

By Asheebo Rojas Stanly County Journal THE UNITED PULLERS of the Carolinas honored two local tractor pullers at its awards banquet held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Nov. 18.

Noble Hinshaw, a Siler City man, was one of four 2023 United Pullers of the Carolinas Hall of Fame inductees, and Wyatt Pickler, a Stanly County man, earned a share of the Rookie of the Year award.

In tractor pulling, often described as “the world’s heaviest motorsport,” competitors drive modified tractors or trucks to drag a weight-loaded sled along a course with the goal of pulling it the farthest. Originating from horse pulling contests in the 1860s, the sport evolved to use motorized vehicles in 1929, gaining widespread popularity in the 50s and 60s.

Hinshaw, a 1961 Silk Hope High School graduate, competed in the sport from 1973 to 1985. He claimed 22 North Carolina Points Championships with his tractor, “Humming Hemis,”

Noble Hinshaw

AP PHOTO

Pulling out all the stops: Noble Hinshaw, of Siler City, in action on the United Pullers of the Carolinas pro tractor pull circuit.

Hinshaw was inducted into the UPOC Hall of Fame at their annual awards ceremony. which was backed by Hinshaw’s Garage and Hart Furniture.

For Hinshaw, being inducted into the Hall of Fame was a “big honor.”

“It’s been about 40 years since I did it, but I’m glad to be around to get it,” Hinshaw, 80, said.

Now a retiree, Hinshaw said he goes to tractor pulls every

now and then, even though he feels being around the sport too much will make him want to compete again.

“When we quit, we went out running good,” Hinshaw said.

For Pickler, 20, winning a share of the Rookie of the Year award was about making his father, John, proud.

Pickler’s father, who also competes with the UPOC, introduced Wyatt to tractor pulling in his early teenage years.

“My dad had a two-wheel drive, and he’s like, ‘one day, you’re going to do this’” Pickler said. “I told him when I hit 20, I’d start doing it.”

Honoring his word, Pickler has found early success with what his father taught him, earning a first-place finish on the second day of the N.C. State Fair Southern Showdown competition.

He competes with a black and green Hot Farm tractor named, “Game Changer.” “(I’ll) probably keep doing it and (keep) the tractor pulling going for my family,” Pickler said. “(I’ll) do it as long as I can.”

A fun fact about Pickler is that he’s a distant cousin of country singer and former American Idol contestant Kellie Pickler.

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 42 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

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Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN | RANDOLPH RECORD

Kicked cancer’s butt

Randolph Health therapy dog Quinn “rang the bell” to celebrate the end of his chemotherapy treatments on December 5, a post-treatment tradition amongst cancer patients. Quinn worked with his owner, Marsha Rogers, to ring the bell himself thanks to a custom wooden holder made

by Randolph Health nursing Director Patty Cox. He was diagnosed with lymphoma in June 2023, but is in remission. His last treatment was November 27th.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign fights holiday impaired driving North Carolina launched a “Booze It & Lose It” campaign this week to combat impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, it focuses on deterring drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and other impairing substances.

Mark Ezzell, director of the GHSP, expressed concern about the heightened risk of impaired driving during the holidays, noting that over 25 percent of North Carolina’s crash fatalities in 2022 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. The N.C. Department of Transportation reported 471 alcohol-related crash fatalities last year.

The campaign highlights the availability of various transportation options, including designated sober drivers and rideshare services to ensure safe travel.

USDA introduces online farm loan applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an innovative online application system for its Direct Loan program.

This initiative is expected to benefit over 26,000 annual applicants, offering a paperless, interactive, and guided process, complete with electronic signature and document upload capabilities.

The tool is part of the USDA’s Farm Service Agency efforts to enhance customer service and increase credit accessibility.

This launch aligns with FSA’s broader initiative to automate and streamline processes, including simplifying the direct loan paper application from 29 to 13 pages and introducing an interactive online guide on farmers.gov to assist with loan product selection and application.

Asheboro City Council approves new members and rezoning requests Meeting highlights include mayoral appointments and property developments

By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The Asheboro City Council met Thursday, Dec. 7 to swear in incumbents Edward Burks and Charles Swiers as well as newly elected councilor Joseph Trogdon, Jr. to their seats.

Walker Moffitt was reappointed as Mayor Pro Tem with Trogdon dissenting.

“If you have a leading vote getter who’s an outsider, that’s typically the impression to me and a lot of folks that they want a change from the status quo,” Trogdon said in explanation.

“For that reason, I won’t support

the motion.”

The council continued with public hearings on rezoning requests.

The first was a request to rezone approximately 1/8 of an acre of property located at 306 Harrison Street from B1 to RA6 (CZ) in order to allow for a single-family residential addition.

“The addition that is proposed is on the south side of the property,” said Assistant Community Development Director John Evans. “It is for a reasonable accommodation for an accessible shower for the homeowner to meet their mobility needs.

“Typically, this would be through a variance process or the zoning ordinance does have a reasonable accommodation provision through the board of adjustment, but the issue with this property is that it has a B1

commercial zoning so in order to even be able to apply to the board of adjustment, the property would have had to be rezoned to make that application.”

The second hearing was a request to rezone just over twothirds of an acre of property located at 4986 US Highway 220 Business North from R15 to B2 (CZ) to allow for minor motor vehicle repair.

“The applicant’s proposal is for minor motor vehicle repair only,” Evans said. “That would include repairs such as oil changes, safety inspections, tire service, work on spark plugs, batteries and things of that nature. What it doesn’t include under major repair is once the equipment goes over a certain horsepower. Examples of that would be things like auto body work or painting or some type of work that would

include rebuilding engines or transmissions.”

In addition, operations would be required to take place only from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Following the hearings, the council approved both requests.

Finally, the council approved a $141,165 work authorization with WK Dickson for the design and bid administration of a 10-unit T-hangar located at the southern end of the Asheboro Regional Airport.

“Greensboro, PTI, Smith Reynolds and Burlington are out of hangar space, so there’s an increased demand for hangar space and we got room to build,” said City Manager John Ogburn.

“And when the planes are based in Asheboro, they’re taxed in Asheboro.”

The Asheboro City Council will next meet Jan. 11.

‘The Invictus Project’ to tackle child trafficking Joint task force aims to unify efforts in fighting child exploitation

By Scott Pelkey Randolph Record ASHEBORO — At a joint press conference, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office announced a new task force and plans for a fusion center in Randolph County, all dedicated to combating child trafficking and exploitation.

In August of this year the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office worked with 17 other agencies on an operation that led to the arrest of nineteen individuals who allegedly traveled to Randolph County with the intent of sexually exploiting minors.

“That operation opened the eyes of several people across the state,” said Randolph County Sheriff Greg Seabolt at the press conference. “The operation

proved that child abuse, trafficking, and exploitation are much more prevalent than most people know or are willing to admit.”

North Carolina is ranked ninth in the nation for human trafficking with sex trafficking being the most common. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation estimates that they will receive more than 27,000 Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) tips in 2023. With only 250 investigators trained to take ICAC cases in the state, which comes out to 108 tips per investigator, on top of their other non-ICAC cases.

“Our children are our most precious resource and deserve our best efforts to protect them from the evils of society. In many cases, persons convicted of child sex offenses admit that they have abused other children,” said Seabolt. “It is only logical to assume that these individuals will continue to abuse children until they are caught. It is therefore imperative that we take a proac-

“Trafficking, and exploitation are much more prevalent than most people know or are willing to admit.”

Randolph County Sheriff Greg Seabolt tive approach to catch these predators and prevent future abuse to every extent possible.”

To combat the problem, an interagency task force called The Invictus Project has been created, comprised of Randolph, Forsyth, Alamance, and Davidson Sheriff’s Offices, the district attorney, State Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and NGO partners like Lantern Rescue. The combined agencies operate out of a fusion

center in Randolph County.

A fusion center acts like a shared workspace for law enforcement with the idea of bringing law enforcement agencies, investigators, resources, and tools under one roof to encourage sharing of information and expertise.

They can also provide access to the latest tools and technology to solve cases more effectively.

“This is a technical fight, and this fight is done on forensic side for the most part, and these digital forensic tools are expensive,” explained Ray Dawson with Lantern Rescue, a non-profit focused on tackling child exploitation.

See TRAFFICKING, page 2

$2.00

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

12.13.23

Randolph County incumbents file to keep seats

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Bob Sutton, Randolph Editor Scott Pelkey, Breaking News Jesse Deal, Reporter Ryan Henkel, Reporter P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 RANDOLPHRECORD.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY

ASHEBORO — Two incumbents on the Randolph County Board of Commissioners have filed paperwork to run for re-election.

Kenny Kidd of Asheboro and Maxton McDowell of Asheboro are seeking to retain their seasons.

The filing period for the

March primary opened Dec. 4 and closes at noon Friday.

The filings include federal offices, numerous statewide positions along with seats on the county level.

Also filing for a Randolph County commissioner seat are Christopher McLeod of Denton and Lester Rivenbark of Asheboro. Both challengers filed on the day that filing began.

Like the two incumbents, McLeod and Rivenbark are listed as Republicans.

McDowell was first elected in November 2016. Kidd also was elected in 2016 and 2020.

For the 2024 ballot, only two of the five seats on the Randolph County board of commissioners will be voted on.

Republican David Craven of Asheboro has filed to keep his seat in the N.C. Senate for District 29.

Sitting N.C. Rep. Brian Biggs, a Republican from Trinity, has filed for House Seat 70.

For N.C. District Court Judge (District 37, Seat 5), Republican Barron Thompson of Asheboro has filed.

The primary will be held March 5.

CRIME LOG December 5

December 7

x Thurman Earl Sampson was charged with felony possession of a firearm

by Felon by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.

x Scotty Eugene Youngblood from Archdale was arrested by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office for trafficking Methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a felony probation violation.

He received a $25,000 bond.

x Aubrey William Baker, Jr. from Trinity, was charged by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office with felony burning other buildings and misdemeanor resisting public officer. x James Tyler Deen, wanted for a court order violation from Marion County, Mississippi, was arrested by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office as a Fugitive from Justice. Bond was denied bond awaiting an extradition hearing. x Gunnar McKenzie Widener was charged by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office with felony electronic house arrest violation, and two counts of felony fail to report new online identifiers. No bond was issued.

x Neal Eugene Jenkins arrested after the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office obtained warrants for felony obtain property by false pretense, misdemeanor larceny and misdemeanor possession of stolen goods/property.

December 9 x Alondra Paez Hernandez was arrested and charged with felony simple possession of cocaine, misdemeanor

possession of marijuana up to ½ oz., misdemeanor possession of marijuana paraphernalia, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, and no operator’s license.

She was issued a $1,500 secured bond. x Courtney Mikayla McPeek of Asheboro, was arrested and charged with felony possession of a schedule I controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. She received at $1,500 unsecured bond.

December 10 x Juliann Frances Staley of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro Police and charged with uttering a forged instrument, identity theft, obtaining property by false pretenses, and possession of stolen goods. She received a $10,000 bond.

CALL OR TEXT 336-629-7588

Randolph

Guide The Randolph Guide is a quick look at what’s going on in Randolph County.

Dec. 15 Friday Night Bluegrass presents ‘A Bluegrass Christmas’ 7 p.m.

This annual holiday concert returns to the historic Sunset Theatre featuring features multiple acts including True Grass, The McCarthurs, Alana Cheek, Ed Rhodes, Brandon Shepherd, Caleb Lucas and Nolan Moon. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets $10 at the door.

Dec. 16 Holiday Open House – Seagrove Potters 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Take a self-guided tour the first three weekends in Dec.. Special events planned on Saturdays.

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop 11 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Millstone Creek Orchards instructor leads you through the process of creating the perfect wreath for your home this holiday season. $5 per participant (cost of wreath NOT included) Reserve your spot bit.ly/ MCOWreathWorkshop (Reservations required.

No walk-ins.)

The Liberty Showcase presents Jerry Allison‘s Annual Christmas Show

WEDNESDAY DEC 13 HI 55 LOW 27 PRECIP 5%

7 p.m.

Christmas Show with Jerry Allison and friends at the Liberty Showcase Theater. Fun, interactive and filled with your favorite Holiday songs inside the ! Admission: $10 - $20

THURSDAY DEC 14 HI 49 LOW 23 PRECIP 2%

FRIDAY DEC 15 HI 51 LOW 27 PRECIP 5%

SATURDAY DEC 16 HI 56 LOW 33 PRECIP 19%

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@randolphrecord.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

SUNDAY DEC 17 HI 54 LOW 41 PRECIP 50%

MONDAY DEC 18 HI 58 LOW 39 PRECIP 37%

TUESDAY DEC 19 HI 55 LOW 35 PRECIP 31%

Dec. 19 Red Cross Blood Drive 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The Red Cross will be holding at Blood Drive at the North Carolina Zoo Education Center in the N. America parking lot.

Quiet Day at North Carolina Zoo TRAFFICKING from page 1 “When we’re able to bring all of these tools to one location with the expertise that law enforcement personnel already have to be able to collaborate and work together, we just become a more effective fighting force.”

The Invictus Project will have a full-time lab staffed with a technician, analyst, and administrative assistant to provide administrative and technological support.

While each agency is responsible for providing its own per-

sonnel and equipment, Randolph County Commissioners have already approved funding to go towards the Fusion Center.

It will be the first of its kind in the State of North Carolina to use this full-time proactive model, both with partnering with surrounding agencies as a force multiplier, and using tactical apprehension methods to apprehend child predators.

In addition to fielding cyber tips, the task force will operate undercover operations to identify and apprehend online child predators and search for vic-

tims. The education and training of officers on topics centered around cyber investigations, human trafficking, child exploitation, and undercover chat operations will also be a priority.

“We want to send a message to all predators out there, all the perverts, that if you come to Randolph County, Alamance County, or any county in the Triad — they are not welcome,” said Sheriff Seabolt. “We want to help these kids before it happens, because when it happens, they become victims. We don’t want any more victims.”

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Quiet days at the NC Zoo are a more sensoryfriendly with smaller crowds and loud music and messaging turned off throughout the park.

Sensory bags are free for check out from the Guest Services Office or at Kidzone.

Quiet sensory play experiences 10 a.m.

– 2 p.m. in the Kidzone.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

OPINION

de

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

For true evil, look to communism

Vladimir Lenin was a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years.

FOR THOSE DISMAYED at how many college and university students and faculty, even, or especially, at selective and prestigious institutions, have been cheering Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocities and calling, in only slightly veiled language, for the destruction of Israel and genocide of Jews, the question is how this vicious line of thought gained hold in American secondary and higher education.

The answer seems to be that students have been infected, in high schools and colleges, with a virus that enables them to see history only as a struggle between oppressors and the oppressed, between vicious exploiters and virtuous victims.

This obviously owes something to Marxism, which teaches that an oppressed and exploited proletariat will inherit all power — or at least be the beneficiary of the intellectuals who grab it. But that version has had to be revised because contemporary working classes refused to play their assigned roles and mouth the lines that leftist intellectuals dictated to them.

Instead, the script has been adapted to attack other targets, with the vicious oppressors depicted as settlers coming into a new land and the virtuous oppressed depicted as previous residents and indigent peoples. This has the advantage of defining, if you twist the history a few times, the United States and Israel as villain regimes rather than as the historic leaders they have been and are in advancing religious tolerance, freedom of expression, rule of law, and electoral democracy.

One way to put this into perspective is to visit one of Washington, D.C.’s newest and least known museums, the Victims of Communism Museum, on McPherson Square, a few blocks from the White

House. There you will get an idea of what true oppression is like — and how it has slaughtered 100 million people and blighted the lives of hundreds of millions of others.

It’s not a story in which American secondary schools or higher education seem much interested these days. For it tells how small gaggles of would-be intellectuals and violent gang leaders — frequently, as in the case of Joseph Stalin, the same person — gained dictatorial control of enormous nations while posing as champions of the supposedly virtuous, downtrodden masses.

From a combination of visual images and texts, you can learn how Vladimir Lenin was not the mild reformer that some apologists claim but instead a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years. You can read excerpts from Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s “Gulag Archipelago” and view paintings

by Gulag survivors.

There’s a separate section devoted to the Chinese Communist Party, which next year will have been in power for 75 years — one year longer than the run of the Soviet Union. Young people who think it’s cool to wear Mao T-shirts might pay special attention to the exhibits on the 1959-61 Great Leap Forward, which was actually a great leap to starvation for 30 million people.

And Mao’s Cultural Revolution, with its purges of wrong thinkers and executions and rural exiles of professionals, enforced by youthful Red Guards, will have a certain familiar ring for those familiar with contemporary American campuses.

Of particular interest to me were the exhibits on the Baltic States’s self-

liberation from the Soviet Union. I was in Estonia, reporting for U.S. News and World Report, in October 1989, just two months after the human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania marked the 50th anniversary of the Hitler-Stalin pact. I remember the European traffic signal-like signs, with a red diagonal line within a red circle and the numbers 23.08.39 and the names Molotov and Ribbentrop — the foreign ministers who signed the alliance of the two totalitarian tyrants on Aug. 23, 1939.

That enabled Adolf Hitler and Stalin to start dividing up Poland and the Baltics nine days later. The U.S., thankfully, never recognized the Soviet absorption of the Baltics, and today, they and Poland are part of NATO and providing vital aid to Ukraine.

Victims of Communism Museum President Andrew Bremberg tells me that when he asks students how many have heard of Stalin, about 1 out of 10 hands goes up. And when he asks students or adults who has heard of the Hitler-Stalin pact, no one raises a hand.

That’s unfortunate because this alliance of totalitarians, which with its allies controlled almost all of Europe and half of the land mass of Asia by spring 1941, was what inspired George Orwell’s dystopia in “1984.” Had Hitler not attacked Stalin in June 1941, could beleaguered Britain and technically neutral America have ended their totalitarian tyranny?

Young people and their elders who cheer the gleeful torture and murders of Oct. 7 do not understand what true evil is like. They could get a better idea at the Victims of Communism Museum.

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

COLUMN | MATT SEAHOLM

Recycling is real We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today to stay in our economy and out of the environment.

RECYCLING CONTINUES to be the center of environmental conversations these days, especially as we look to reach our shared sustainability goals, increase recycling rates and reduce plastic waste.

Unfortunately, there are still some who claim that plastic recycling will ‘never work,’ and continue to create roadblocks to meeting important sustainability objectives — namely increased recycling rates.

In just the past few years, the plastics industry that we are proud to represent, has announced over $8 billion dollars in investments into new technologies, facilities, and innovations that will make recycling that much more of a reality.

In those same few years, we have seen a dramatic shift in the messaging coming from anti-plastic activist organizations who are more interested in perpetuating a problem rather than solving one. They say things like “plastic recycling is a myth.”

They block compromise legislation. They even tell people not to bother recycling.

That is not environmentalism, and it is why the industry has launched a campaign to say three small words in a big way.

Recycling is real. Tens of thousands of Americans go to work every day making it happen and that is exactly what this new initiative, Recycling Is Real, can show you. We have traveled across America and filmed ordinary people doing

extraordinary things, including right here in North Carolina. We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today, or even the bumper on your car from years past, to stay in our economy and out of the environment, giving it another life, sometimes more than once.

For most, “recyclable” defines whether something can be put into a blue or green bin. But the truth is, that’s only the first step in a process that turns a used product into material that can be made into yet another product.

Recycling is Real highlights the industry’s commitment to recycling by showing who these folks really are and that their role in the circular economy is not fictional or imaginary. From shredding the old material to extruding the new material or creating the equipment that makes it possible to design safe new ways to put more recycled content into products, the people in these videos invite the viewer to come and see what they do, showing us that it’s truly undeniable that recycling is both feasible and economical. Moving forward, this campaign will continue to share examples of recycling success stories.

Naysayers from the anti-recycling groups are likely to say, “If recycling is real, then why are some recycling rates still so low?” That is a fair question and one that can be easily answered. Infrastructure for recycling simply has not kept up with the incredible innovations in products and materials over the past few decades. These include innovations that provide value in other ways like reducing food waste, enhancing safety, and minimizing the

material used to make a product.

We must invest in recycling infrastructure and, as an industry, we understand that we have a role to play in helping to fund that infrastructure. It’s why we support well-constructed extended producer responsibility programs, which place a small fee on products the plastics industry manufactures, especially in packaging. It’s also why the plastics industry supports attainable minimum recycled content requirements that establish guaranteed end-markets for material and in turn, spur private investment. But manufacturers and recyclers cannot increase rates on their own. We need partners ― lawmakers who share our commitment to sustainability and solutions; brand owners dedicated to the use of recycled content in products and packaging, and retail establishments who want to make it as easy as possible to place that used product in the blue bin.

And yes, consumers must be at the heart of this effort by finding that bin and knowing what goes where.

I would encourage you to listen to the words of the workers, including those right here in North Carolina, who proudly show recycling is far from a “myth.” It’s happening every day and once we agree on the reality of recycling and put an end to false narratives, we can work together to get recycling rates where we all want them to be.

Recycling is Real — see for yourself.

Matt Seaholm is President and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

4

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT NBA

Voters consider sales tax for new $1B Thunder arena Oklahoma City Oklahoma City voters will decide whether to approve a 1% sales tax to fund a new downtown arena for the NBA’s Thunder. The vote on the six-year tax is set for Tuesday. Under a proposed agreement with the team’s owners, the team would stay in the city through at least 2050 if it’s approved. Local leaders say the new arena will continue Oklahoma City’s momentum as a top-tier city. But many city residents are concerned the team’s owners, who are some of the wealthiest Oklahomans, are contributing only 5% of the cost of the new arena.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Bronny James makes college debut for USC Los Angeles Bronny James had four points, three rebounds and two assists in his college debut for Southern California nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest.

Playing in front of his father, LeBron James, the 19-yearold freshman logged 16 minutes in the Trojans’ 8479 overtime loss to Long Beach State. James shot 1 of 3, making a 3-pointer in the second half. Later, he made a huge block that drew cheers.

The younger James suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout on campus.

He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.

WNBA

Fever win WNBA Draft lottery top pick again Uncasville, Conn.

The Indiana Fever won the WNBA Draft lottery Sunday and will pick No. 1 for the second straight year.

The Fever, who took Aliyah Boston last season with the top pick, will now have to wait and see which players decide to enter the draft.

Generational talents Caitlin Clark of Iowa, UConn’s Paige Bueckers and LSU’s Angel Reese all have the option to return to school for another season due to the extra year they were granted for the coronavirus. Los Angeles has the No. 2 pick with Phoenix choosing third and Seattle fourth.

NFL

Chargers QB Herbert fractures right index finger Inglewood, Calif.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert fractured the index finger on his right hand in the second quarter of Los Angeles’ 24-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday, jeopardizing his streak of 62 consecutive regular season starts on a short week for his struggling team. Coach Brandon Staley said the Chargers’ medical staff will do more tests before determining whether Herbert will miss their next game Thursday at Las Vegas. The Chargers (5-8) have only three days to prepare for the Raiders. If Herbert can’t play, backup Easton Stick seems likely to become only the Chargers’ fourth starting quarterback since 2007.

SOCCER

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Ohtani agrees to record $700M, 10-year deal with Dodgers The two-way superstar twice won AL MVP with the Angels The Associated Press NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani has set a financial record to go along with his singular on-field performance, getting $700 million to make a 30-mile move up Interstate 5 to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a midafternoon news release Saturday announcing the 10-year contract, ending months of speculation that began even before Ohtani became a free agent on Nov. 2. In recent days, media and fans had tracked private plane movements and alleged sightings like detectives in attempts to discern the intentions of the two-time AL MVP with the Angels.

“This is a unique, historic contract for a unique, historic player,” Balelo said. “He is excited to begin this partnership, and he structured his contract to reflect a true commitment from both sides to long-term success.”

Ohtani’s total was 64% higher than baseball’s previous record, a $426.5 million, 12-year deal for Angels outfielder Mike Trout that began in 2019.

His $70 million average salary is 62% above the previous high of $43,333,333, shared by pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander with deals they struck with the New York Mets.

Ohtani’s average salary nearly doubles the roughly $42.3 million he earned with the Angels.

AP PHOTO

Shohei Ohtani signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract to join the nearby Dodgers.

It also exceeds the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland this year.

His agreement includes unprecedented deferred money that will lower the amount it counts toward the Dodgers’ luxury tax payroll, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the details were not announced.

This is perhaps the largest contract in sports history, topping highs believed to be set by soccer stars Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

There was no immediate comment by the Dodgers. Ohtani has not spoken with reporters since Aug. 9.

$70M Annual salary for Shohei Ohtani in his new deal with the Dodgers, more than the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland last season.

“I apologize for taking so long to come to a decision,” Ohtani said in an English-language statement on Instagram. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved with the Angels organization

and the fans who have supported me over the past six years, as well as to everyone involved with each team that was part of this negotiation process.

“And to all Dodgers fans, I pledge to always do what’s best for the team and always continue to give it my all to be the best version of myself,” he continued. “Until the last day of my playing career, I want to continue to strive forward not only for the Dodgers but for the baseball world.”

Ohtani joins a lineup that also includes 2018 AL MVP Mookie Betts and 2020 NL MVP Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers won the NL West this year for the 10th time in 11 seasons before they were swept by Arizona in the Division Series in October.

Los Angeles begins the 2024 season in Seoul, South Korea, against San Diego on March 2021.

Ohtani’s decision came six years and one day after he first agreed to his deal with Angels.

Ohtani has redefined modern baseball since he chose the Angels as his first major league team. Nobody has come close to matching his achievements at the plate and on the mound, becoming one of the majors’ elite players in both roles when healthy. Along the way, he has become one of the most marketable athletes in the world, a force when it comes to ticket sales, TV ratings and sponsorship revenue.

He was a unanimous AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 — he finished second in 2022 — winning this year despite injuring his elbow in late August and an oblique muscle in early September.

LSU quarterback Daniels wins Heisman Trophy Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was runner-up The Associated Press

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels kisses the Heisman Trophy after winning the award Saturday in New York.

“This is a dream come true.”

NEW YORK — Jayden Dan- Jayden Daniels, iels, LSU’s dazzling dual-threat quarterback, won the Heisman LSU quarterback Trophy on Saturday night, becoming the first player since 2016 to win college football’s 18, won AP Player of the Year most prestigious player of the earlier in the week. year award as part of a team Daniels is the fifth quarterthat did not play for a conference back in the last seven seasons championship. to win the Heisman after transThe fifth-year player, who ferring, joining former LSU star transferred from Arizona State Joe Burrow in 2019 and USC’s to LSU in 2022, received 503 Caleb Williams last year. first-place votes and 2,029 “I want to thank all my teampoints after accounting for 50 mates, from Arizona State to touchdowns and nearly 5,000 LSU,” Daniels said. “You’re my total yards in just 12 regu- brothers. You work so hard every lar-season games. day, inspiring me to be my best.”

“This is a dream come true,” He is also LSU’s third Daniels started his acceptance Heisman winner overall, along speech. with running back Billy Cannon Washington’s Michael Penix in 1959.

Jr. was the runner-up with 292 Burrow led LSU to a nationfirst-place votes and 1,701 points al championship and Cannon’s and Oregon’s Bo Nix was third team came close, finishing No. 3 (51, 885), putting transfer quar- in the country. terbacks in each of the top three Daniels’ Tigers (9-3) slipped spots. Ohio State receiver Mar- out of that race with two losses vin Harrison Jr. finished fourth in the first six weeks, but he cer(20, 352). tainly wasn’t to blame.

Wearing a sharp light gray “I really wish I could have suit, Daniels dropped his head brought you back another chamfor a moment when his name pionship,” Daniels said as he was called. He was the favorite thanked the LSU fans. to win the award but said he felt Week after week he fueled the relieved when it was official. best offense in the country with Still, he stayed composed his passing (3,812 yards) and throughout his speech when he running (1,134). He leads the nathanked everyone from his of- tion in total offense at 412 yards fensive line to the groundskeep- per game and is averaging an asers at Tigers Stadium and cafe- tounding 10.71 yards per play. teria workers who help feed the No. 13 LSU is set to face Wisteam. consin in the ReliaQuest Bowl “I wasn’t really like, emotion- on Jan. 1, though Daniels has al, like crying,” Daniels said later not yet decided if he will play the at a news conference. “I guess it’s final game of his college career. kind of how I play on the field. The next stop for the 6-foot-4, I’m just enjoying the moment, 210-pounder could be the NFL just embracing everything, giv- Draft combine, with his stock on ing thanks to God.” the rise but no guarantee to be a Daniels, who turns 23 on Dec. first-round pick.

AP PHOTO

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

PREP FOOTBALL

Randleman linebacker looks to shine in N.C. East-West All-Star Game

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Marcus Robertson goes up for a shot for Southwestern Randolph last season.

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record RANDLEMAN — Randleman senior Thomas Dobias is excited for the chance to put a finishing touch on his high school football career.

He hopes that helps lead to other opportunities on the gridiron.

Dobias, a linebacker, will play in the North Carolina East-West All-Star Game on Sunday afternoon in Greensboro.

“I definitely want to play college football,” Dobias said. “I think this is going to help me.”

New for the 2023-24 school year, the North Carolina Coaches Association has moved the game from the mid-July spot to December so it better aligns with the football season. The N.C. East-West All-Star basketball and soccer games will continue to be held in July for recent graduates.

Dobias played a key role as Randleman re-emerged as an area power this season, posing a 10-2 record.

“We had been OK,” he said.

“I think (the strong season) had a lot to do with the senior class.

Our senior class really led it.”

The Tigers also dealt with the absence of coach Shane Timmons, who relocated during the season to Tennessee because of a medication situation involving his daughter, Ophie. The team didn’t want to let thim down.

“That gave us a lot of motivation to do good things,” Dobias said.

Dobias had been a starter on defense since his freshman season, which was abbreviated because of the pandemic. Then injuries limited him the next two seasons, with a broken arm in the latter part of the 2021 season and the need for arthroscopic knee surgery shortly before the beginning of the 2022 season. He returned last year at start of Piedmont Athletic Conference play.

This year, he made the most of his final prep season.

“Finally, a full year without injury,” he said.

Dobias recorded a PAC-leading 134 tackles, including 18

RANDOLPH RECORD

Randleman linebacker Thoams Dobias tackles Providence Grove quarterback James Ellis. for losses. He said he’s better as a run-stopper, but that didn’t prevent him from collecting a team-leading six interceptions this year after having no pick-offs during his first three seasons.

“Experience has a lot to do with it,” he said.

Dobias, who even with the injuries garnered all-conference or all-county honors in all four football seasons, has been a running back for Randleman, but that role was reduced as the Tigers had better depth at that position this year.

“I feel like I react fast. I know football. I’m smart about football,” he said. “I definitely prefer defense. I like to hit people, but I don’t mind playing offense at all.

That’s fun, too, running the ball and scoring touchdowns.”

He said he felt obligated to show leadership traits and set good examples, especially “with all my work in the weight room,” he said. “Ever since I was little.

I’ve always loved football. Everybody has looked up to me. I try to take that to heart. I try to keep everybody positive.”

Dobias, now at about 210 pounds, gained a reputation early in high school as a top-notch player in Randolph County. He said he learned to be unfazed, even as a freshman.

“My dad (Ryan Dobias) has helped coach,” he said. “I’ve

grown up around high school kids. I’ve worked out with them.

It was a little intimidating at first, but I got used to it.

“They know about me. I try not to put that in my head. I try to play good every game. Make them know my name that game.”

When players from around North Carolina gather Sunday for the 2 p.m. game at Jamieson Stadium on the Greensboro Grimsley campus, it will be a special day for Dobias. That’s also his 18th birthday.

“It should be a pretty cool experience,” he said. “You’re going against really good players. It’s going to give me an idea of what it’s going to be like at the next level.”

Dobias said he plans for another track and field season prior to college. He hopes to major in wildlife biology.

Norwood in Shrine Bowl Eastern Randolph senior lineman Jani Norwood will be in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas on Saturday afternoon.

That game pitting top seniors from North Carolina vs. seniors from South Carolina will be held in Spartanburg, S.C. Norwood is a University of North Carolina commit. He had excelled as an offensive lineman, but he was named this year’s Defensive Player of the Year in the PAC.

RACING

Moffitt makes move to Trucks with new team

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record LEVEL CROSS – Thad Moffitt is going up another level in his racing career.

He’ll be a full-time driver in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as part of a new team, Faction46. Lane Moore, owner of Venture Food Stores, is owner of the race team.

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for,” Moffitt said.

“I’m thrilled that Lane has put his trust in me to begin this new venture with him in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with Faction46. This past year, I had a full season in the Trans Am Series, but I always wanted to have the opportunity to race full-time in NASCAR and begin in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.”

Moffitt, grandson of Richard Petty, made the announcement formally during the weekend at the Petty Museum as part of a Christmas cruise-in.

Moffitt, 23, will drive the No. 46 Chevrolet Silverado. His debut with the team comes Feb. 15 in the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway.

“I’ve enjoyed working and getting to know the Petty family and Thad,” Moore said. “It all accumulated to this day and the beginning of Faction46 and what I hope to be a long stay in

FILE PHOTO

Southwestern Randolph, boys’ basketball It has been a challenging start to the season for Southwestern Randolph, but Robertson has given the Cougars chances in games.

Last week, the senior had games of 24 points and 19 points. Still, the Cougars absorbed a pair of narrow home losses on consecutive nights to South Davidson (by 42-40) and East Davidson (by 55-52).

Robertson is coming off football season when he was a receiver for the Cougars.

PREP ROUNDUP

Asheboro boys, Cougars girls win twice Randolph Record

Wrestling

HERE’S A LOOK at some of last week’s area high school sports highlights: The Asheboro boys’ basketball team avenged a loss to Randleman by securing a 5836 home victory with Jerquarius Stanback posting 18 points.

Stanback had 18 again when the Blue Comets defeated visiting Uwharrie Charter Academy 70-33 later in the week. ** Dominic Payne’s 32 points boosted Trinity past East Davidson 73-56. Payne’s 34 points vs. visiting Oak Grove weren’t enough in a 76-67 loss. ** Parker Kines had 22 points in Wheatmore’s 53-50 loss at Ledford. He posted 13 points in a 58-37 setback to North Davidson. ** Randleman topped Class 4-A team Northwest Guilford 64-60 with Chase Farlow providing 16 points.

Trinity topped Uwharrie Charter Academy 36-30 in a PAC showdown. Both teams won seven matches, but the Bulldogs cranked out some extra points.

UCA responded by going 5-0 in a dual-meet tournament Saturday at Southwest Guilford.

For the Eagles, Ethan Hines, Jack McArthur, Carson Robinson, Alek Millikan and Caden Bond were all 5-0. ** In the Trinity Invitational, champions from Trinity were Aiden Burkholder (106), Spencer May (120), Levi Dennis (132), Charles Schaefer (144), Barron Justice (150) and Gavin Hardister (215).

Randleman 190-pounder Braxton Walker also won first place, pinning Roxboro Person’s Malakai Newman in the final.

Burkholder topped Randleman’s Alex Raymundo 3-2 in the final; May’s title was secured with a pin of Greensboro Grimsley’s Grant McCord; Dennis shut out Cary’s Sidd Atri 9-0 in the final; Schaefer pinned Asheboro’s Alex Patino for the title; Justice defeated Randleman’s Jesus Garis 2-0 in the title bout.

Trinity’s runners-ups were Edgar Vasquez (113), Brayden Hall (126) and Lawson Coltrane (165).

Southwestern Randolph’s Michael Jaimes was second at 138, losing by 7-5 to Central Davidson’s Corbin McCartney in the final. ** At Kernersville, Wheatmore’s Spencer Moore and Dominic Hittepole were individual champions in the Nick Sgroi Invitational at Bishop McGuinness.

Moore topped the field at166 pounds and Hittepole won at 175.

Second-place spots for the Warriors went to Noland Hammonds at 132, Trey Swaney at 138, Zack Starkweather at 150 and Noah Browning at 190.

Wheatmore was the team runner-up in the nine-team field with 127 points. Rockingham County won with 199 points.

Girls’ basketball

PJ WARD-BROWN | RANDOLPH RECORD

Thad Moffitt, center, will move to a new venture with a new team for 2024. Crew chief Doug George, left, and team owner Lane Moore, right, were at the announcement.

NASCAR.” Moffitt returns to NASCAR, where he competed in the ARCA Menard Series in 2021.

Moffitt made four starts in the Truck Series, running the first three races of the 2022 season, and returned later that year to compete at Knoxville Raceway.

In 45 ARCA races, Moffitt turned in nine top-5 finishes.

He was fourth in points in 2021.

Doug George will be crew chief for the new team, which is expected to run in the full 23race schedule on the Craftsman Truck circuit.

“The NASCAR Craftsman

Truck Series offers some of the best, most exciting racing for both young and seasoned drivers,” Moore said. “I’m proud to be part of the series with Thad as we earn the respect of the other teams.”

Last year, Moffitt was part of the Trans-Am Series with the Scott Lagasse Racing team.

Moffitt’s participation comes as the Petty family marks the 75-year anniversary of its involvement in NASCAR. Moffitt is a former Wheatmore student. He’s the son of Brian and Rebecca Petty-Moffitt.

Caressa King led Southwestern Randolph in two home victories last week.

King had 16 points in a 6132 romp past South Davidson and 21 points when the Cougars beat East Davidson 64-30. ** Audry Petty’s 23 points were tops as Randleman defeated host Asheboro 52-45.

Randleman fell 41-35 to longtime power Northwest Guilford despite Petty’s 16 points. ** Wheatmore defeated host Ledford by 42-29 and topped visiting Central Davidson by 38-32, giving the Warriors victories in five of their first six games. That’s already more than halfway to the team’s nine-win mark from last season. ** Kenly Whitaker led Eastern Randolph in scoring with 15 points vs. visiting Williams and 24 points vs. visiting Chatham Charter, but the Wildcats lost both games. It was the second time Chatham Charter defeated the Wildcats this season.

In between the setbacks, Whitaker rallied 18 points in a 48-35 victory at Southern Lee.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

6

The GOP’s slim House majority is getting even tighter with Kevin McCarthy’s retirement The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Speaker Mike Johnson’s margin for error in getting Republican priorities through the House is getting slimmer, complicating future votes and magnifying the ability of individual lawmakers to force concessions.

Republicans had just a 222213 margin before Rep. George Santos of New York was expelled in a broad, bipartisan vote a week ago. Then, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California announced Thursday he would be retiring at the end of the month. He was the first speaker ever booted from the position, a victim of a process he had agreed to implement that allowed just a few defections from within the GOP ranks to oust him.

The margins before both representatives’ exits allowed Republicans to lose up to four votes on a party-line ballot and still get a bill over the finish line, assuming every lawmaker was in attendance.

Now that margin is down to three votes. It could even drop to two if Democrats flip the Santos seat in a special election set for Feb. 13, which would leave their majority at 220-214.

AP PHOTO

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., criticizes President Joe Biden’s policies and efforts on the debt limit negotiations as he holds a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio, is also expected to leave to begin a new job as president of Youngstown State University. It’s unclear when he’ll begin that job, but it’s no later than March 15.

Practical impact “It just makes everything harder. It’s just that simple,” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. “You have to

have perfect attendance, which is hard to get. And you have to have perfect agreement, which is damn hard to get.”

Looking ahead to 2024, the 11term congressman from Oklahoma also noted that lawmakers during election years look to spend more time back in their congressional districts than in

Washington, leaving the focus on the most basic functions of government — namely a spending bill to keep agencies and programs functioning.

“I just don’t see much in the way of major legislative accomplishments next year with the margins this narrow and government this divided,” he said.

Others see a rather muted impact. After all, the GOP’s narrow margin for error has already proven difficult for the party’s leaders to overcome.

It took McCarthy 15 votes to finally be elected speaker once the new Congress began in January.

And that was only the beginning of his troubles.

The House’s staunchest conservatives brought the chamber to a standstill after he made an agreement with the White House in May that did not cut spending as much as they wanted. And then, when the House ousted McCarthy in October, Republicans cycled through three potential replacements before finally landing on Johnson.

How much harder could it really get?

“Clearly, I’d rather move from four to six than from four to two,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., of the Republican voting cushion.

Two networks announce GOP presidential debates just days apart at same New Hampshire school The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two television networks announced they would hold separate Republican presidential debates at the same location in New Hampshire just ahead of that state’s GOP primary next month, but officials at Saint Anselm College said they were only aware of one of the events.

CNN said that it would host a Jan. 10 debate at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, five days before the state’s first-in-the-nation caucuses, and a Jan. 21 debate at Saint Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire, two days before that state’s leadoff primary.

Later, ABC News and WMURTV announced that they would partner for a Jan. 18 debate at Saint Anselm College.

Neil Levesque, executive director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm, told The Associated Press he was not aware of any planning for an event with CNN. “I have no idea about anything with any other network,” Levesque said, referring to the CNN event.

Levesque was quoted in a

AP PHOTO

Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy participate in a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by NewsNation on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at the Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. news release about the ABC and WMUR-TV debate, noting that both Democratic and Republican candidates had participated in debates at the college in every presidential cycle since 2008.

No Saint Anselm official was quoted in CNN’s release about its Iowa and New Hampshire debates, although Drake University — the site of CNN’s Iowa debate

— did issue its own news release about that event.

A CNN spokesperson on Friday declined to “speak to any miscommunication within Saint Anselm” but said in a statement that the network was “moving forward with our plans to host a debate in New Hampshire on January 21.”

The debate announcements came a day after Florida Gov. Ron

DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie met for the fourth debate of the 2024 primary season. Former President Donald Trump, the GOP front-runner for the 2024 nomination, has yet to take part in any debate and has said he doesn’t plan to.

“But I wouldn’t want to overstate the impact.”

Prospects for another speaker revolt?

It takes only one member of the House to make a motion to remove the speaker, or “vacate the chair.” Johnson has generated some grumbling from members, but they also seem more sympathetic to the difficulties he faces in getting House Republicans to unite on major legislation.

Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., one of McCarthy’s most trusted advisers, said the last thing many members want is to go down the same road as they did with McCarthy.

“Is there risk, yes, because you still have the one-member motion to vacate,” Graves said.

“Risk, yes. Likely, no.”

He said, “There’s a lot of scar tissue within the conference.”

Members who put themselves up for the job of speaker were attacked by their colleagues. Others were offended by the total number of votes they ended up getting. There’s not an appetite to repeat that process.

“The other reason that I don’t think it’s likely is because more people are coming to the realization that leading in this environment is really hard,” Graves said.

The RNC said in a statement Friday that the debates scheduled for January were not affiliated with the RNC but that candidates would be permitted to participate if they wanted to.

“Candidates are free to use any forum or format to communicate to voters as they see fit,” the RNC said.

The qualifications for candidates to participate in the debates are getting stricter. To qualify for CNN’s Iowa debate, candidates must register at least 10% support in three separate polls, either nationally or in Iowa, according to CNN. CNN said candidates who finish in one of the top three spots in the Iowa caucuses would be invited to participate in its New Hampshire debate, as well as those who meet CNN’s polling qualification, which include a 10% polling threshold in New Hampshire.

One of the three polls must be an approved CNN poll from the respective state. Unlike previous debates approved by the RNC, participants are not required to meet fundraising marks from a specific number of donors.

The qualifying window for the Iowa debate closes Jan. 2. It’s Jan. 16 for the New Hampshire debate.

ABC and WMUR-TV did not specify qualifications for their New Hampshire debate, saying the information would be released at a later date.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

7

obituaries

Margie Marie Morgan Maness

Darlene Frances Martin

Wanda Ellen Boone

October 22, 1935 — December 6, 2023

March 14, 1954 — December 6, 2023

April 10, 1952 — December 6, 2023

Margie Marie Morgan Maness, age 88, of Asheboro passed away on December 6, 2023 at the Randolph Hospice House.

Mrs. Maness was born in Randolph County on October 22, 1935 to William and Esta Slack Morgan and was a 1955 graduate of Asheboro High School. Margie was formerly employed with Bossong Hosiery and later stayed at home to raise her family. Margie enjoyed reading her Bible and was a member of Riverside Baptist Church. Margie was a loving mother and enjoyed spending time with children and grandchildren. She loved statement watching the birds at her bird scheduled feeders. In addition to her affiliated parents, Margie was preceded andidates in death by her husband of 61 articipate years, Lester Jennings Maness, sister, Ruby Ussery, and o use any daughter, Faith Brewer. municate She is survived by her the RNC daughter, Annette Watson and husband Donnie of or candi- Sophia; sons, Jennings e debates Maness, Timothy Maness, ualify for and Tommy Maness all of andidates Asheboro; grandchildren, % support Amy Watson, Haley Maness, either na- Destiny Maness, Levi Brewer, ording to Sara Brewer, and Bobby Shaw; great grandchildren, Morgan who fin- Coble, Megan Coble, Josiah ree spots Maness, and Isaiah Maness; would be and sister, Margaret Davis of n its New Franklinville. well as s polling ude a 10% w Hamp-

Darlene Frances Thompson Martin, age, 69 of Troy, passed away at her home on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.

Darlene was born in Prince George’s County, Maryland on March 14, 1954, to the late Joseph Thompson and Frances Keyser. Darlene worked as an Office Manager for a Montessori School for 22 years.

She loved to cook, especially broccoli and cheese casserole.

She enjoyed taking boat rides and loved spending time at the pool. She also enjoyed her girl’s night’s out.

Darlene is survived by her husband of 43 years: Tim Martin; children: Andrew Martin of Sylva, NC, Evan Martin (Loren) of Mt. Pleasant, NC, and Lael Martin (Anthony) of Loris SC; grandchildren: Braedyn, Jaxon, and Ford. Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Becky Lamb and Linda Tyler.

Wanda Ellen Harrison Boone, 71, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on December 6, 2023, in Asheboro, NC. She was born in Randolph County, NC on April 10, 1952, to Charles Harrison and Doris Pugh.

Wanda was a loving and supportive mother, grandma, and friend. She received her Bachelor of Speech Pathology and Audiology degree at East Carolina University.

She loved to shop, eat good food, spend time with family, visiting her grandson Connor and his wife Hope in Charleston, SC, and loved watching her Kenna play softball. Wanda will be missed by her grandpups, Cam, Easton, Gus, and Eva. Wanda is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Ashley and Brian Sibbett of Randleman; grandchildren, Connor and his wife Hope Sibbett of Charleston, SC and Makenna Sibbett of Randleman; and her other daughter, Victoria. She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Doris Harrison.

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September 8, 1935 - December 5, 2023 Audrey Mae Yow, 88, of Seagrove, died Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at Beacon Place in Greensboro.

Born on September 8, 1935, in Hall County, Georgia, Audrey was the daughter of the late John Vernon Thomas and Lucy Mae Ivey Thomas.

She worked at Clapp's Nursing Home and later retired from Klaussner Furniture. She was a member of Huldah Baptist Church. Audrey enjoyed cooking and gardening.

In addition to her parents, Audrey was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Eugene Yow; sister, Bertie Bland; and brother, Vernon Thomas.

Surviving are her daughter, Sandra Yow Lucas (Eugene) of Asheboro; sons, Donald Eugene Yow (Debbie) and Michael Wayne Yow (Sherry) all of Asheboro; grandsons, Kevin Blackmon, Neill Blackmon (Julia), Donald Eugene Yow, Jr. (Ashley), Austin Wayne Yow, Hunter Shane Yow; great grandchildren, Peyton Yow, Cameron Yow, Addie Yow, Nathan Blackmon, and Brent Blackmon.

Aubrey Lauren Triplett Lawrence August 31, 1984 - December 1, 2023

Aubrey Lauren Triplett Lawrence, age 39, of Archdale passed away December 1, 2023, at her home. She was born August 31, 1984, in Overland Park, Kansas to Melissa Thompson Dietzman and Paul Triplett. She is preceded in death by her brother, Christopher James Triplett and both sets of Grandparents.

Aubrey is survived by 2 daughters, Ravyn Dietzman and Jazmyn Lawrence, 2 sons, Sebastian Fillicetti and Kaidyn Lawrence, her mother and stepfather, Melissa and Todd Dietzman, her brother Jason Triplett, her father, Paul Triplett and stepmother Tamy.

Her significant other was Omar Raja.

Joyce Miller

February 27, 1940 - December 6, 2023

Anne White Winslow

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Randolph Record at obits@randolphrecord.com

Audrey Yow

Hilda Mae Rumley Marley

October 14, 1945 — December 9, 2023

February 20, 1937 — December 10, 2023

Loving wife, nurturing mother, grandmother, great grandmother and beloved friend to many, Anne Winslow passed away peacefully at her home to be with the Lord on the morning of December 9, 2023.

Anne was born in Hertford, North Carolina and was the daughter of the late Leroy and Ruth White. She graduated in 1964 from Perquimans County High School where she was a cheerleader and named as class superlative, “Wittiest Person.”

She met her future husband, John Vernon Winslow, at their high school. Their personalities were a perfect match for each other. They started dating in 1961 and married in 1965, sharing 62 loving years together. Anne attended Hicks Beauty School in Norfolk, Virginia before she and Vernon moved to Asheboro in 1965 to make their home.

Anne was a stay-at-home Mom for their two children, Kim and Kevin, since Vernon’s job required a lot of travel.

Anne was known as the keeper of an ultra-neat and organized home, filled with the good smells of her incredible cooking and the warmth of her kindness and most joyous laugh. Her sense of humor matched that of her husband’s, and she was as compassionate as she was funny. She was very involved and supportive in the children’s school and church activities.

Hilda Mae Rumley Marley, age 86, of Asheboro passed away on December 10, 2023 at Randolph Hospital after a brief illness.

Mrs. Marley was born in Asheboro on February 20, 1937 to Archie and Bertha Garner Rumley, who preceded her in death. She was a member of Balfour Baptist Church.

Hilda retired from Asheboro City Schools after 34 years of service and following her retirement, she was employed with Belk as a seamstress.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, June Thomas “Tom” Marley; daughter, Donna Marley and husband Chris Clifton; and brother, Harris Rumley.

Joyce Ann Miller, 83, of Asheboro, passed away Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Brookdale Asheboro.

Joyce was born on February 27, 1940, in Pickens County, SC, Daughter of the late Thomas Nance, Sr., and Helen Fields Nance. She worked for 28 years at Rampon and was a Sunday School Teacher and worked with the youth at church. Joyce loved the Lord and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She could always turn your frown into a smile.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her daughter, Kay Miller Macon; and brother, Thomas J. Van Nance, Jr. Joyce is survived by her husband, Charles E. Miller of the home; son, Darren E. Miller (Kimberly) of Asheboro; grandchildren, Donnelle Hall (Robert Proffitt), Andrea Pinson, Jessica Miller (David Pinson), Logan Macon (Jessica); great grandchildren, Renée Pinson, Elias Pinson, Juniper Cecil, Nataleigh Hall.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Biden administration says New Hampshire computer chip plant the first to get funding from CHIPS law The Associated Press

puter chip supplies as a worldwide shortage curbed U.S. auto production and pushed up prices around the start of Biden’s presidency.

“Over the coming year, the Department of Commerce will award billions more to make

more semiconductors in America, invest in research and development capabilities to keep America at the forefront of new technologies,” Biden said in a statement.

Biden also said the incentives his administration is providing

have already led to more than $230 billion in planned investments in semiconductors and electronics.

The Democratic president has gone to a planned Intel factory in Ohio and a new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plant in Arizona, as well as touted investments by IBM while in New York. Biden has made these financial commitments part of his pitch to voters ahead of the 2024 elections, saying his policies have energized the U.S. economy.

Government officials said the investment in the BAE Systems’ facility will ultimately save money for taxpayers. The money being paid out as the company hits benchmarks will help quadruple the plant’s production capacity, helping to halve the price of making the chips and leading to net savings for the federal agencies buying the chips.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said NATO allies and partners in Asia also will benefit from the increased capacity. But he stressed that an expanded manufacturing base was essential to protect the U.S. “We do not want to be in a position where critical national security needs are dependent on faulty foreign supply chains,” Sullivan said. “We do not want to be in a position where another country can cut us off in a moment of crisis.”

The NRA has a surprising defender in its free speech case before the Supreme Court: the ACLU

lence political speech.”

The nation’s highest court is set to hear arguments early next year in a case centered on comments former New York State Department of Financial Services superintendent Maria Vullo made in the wake of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

After 17 people were killed at the Parkland, Florida, school, Vullo called on banks and insurance companies operating in New York to discontinue their association with gun-promoting groups.

In letters to companies and news releases, she urged operators to consider “reputational risks” from doing business with the NRA and other gun groups.

The NRA sued Vullo after multiple entities cut ties or decided not to do business with the Fairfax, Virginia-based organization. The federal appeals court in New York rejected the NRA’s claims, saying Vullo acted in good faith and within the bounds of her job.

Spokespersons for New York’s financial services department didn’t respond to an email seeking comment Saturday.

But the ACLU, in additional comments posted on X, argued that if the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene, it could create a “dangerous playbook” for regulatory agencies across the

country to blacklist or punish “viewpoint-based organizations” including abortion rights groups, environmental groups and even the ACLU itself.

“The questions at the core of this case are about the First Amendment and the principled defense of civil liberties for all, including those with whom we disagree on the Second Amendment,” the ACLU wrote. “We won’t let the rights of organizations to engage in political advocacy be trampled.”

The announcement, which comes as the NRA and the gunrights movement broadly has proven resilient amid the nation’s ceaseless mass shootings and gun violence, was criticized by at least one prominent ACLU affiliate.

The New York Civil Liberties Union, in a statement, said it “strongly disagrees” with the decision and would not participate in the case, even though it originated in New York.

“The important First Amendment issue in the case is well-established, the NRA is one of the most powerful organizations in the country and has sophisticated counsel, and representing the NRA directly risks enormous harm to the clients and communities the ACLU and NYCLU work with and serve,” Executive Director Donna Lieberman said in an emailed statement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden administration announced the first of many coming federal investments in computer chip production, saying Monday that it would provide $35 million for BAE Systems to increase production at a New Hampshire factory making chips for military aircraft, including F-15 and F-35 jets.

This would be the initial allocation of incentives from last year’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which provides more than $52 billion to boost the development and manufacturing of semiconductors in the United States.

The Commerce Department’s choice of a military contractor instead of a conventional chip manufacturer reveals the national security focus of the law, as more and more weapons systems depend on advanced chips that could be decisive in both preventing and fighting wars.

“We can’t gamble with our national security by depending solely on one part of the world or even one country for crucial advanced technologies,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who called the investments a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance our national and economic security and create a thriving, long-lasting domestic semiconductor manufacturing industry.”

President Joe Biden signed

PHOTO COURTESY BAE SYSTEMS

The new funding should help speed production of the F-35 aircraft. the incentives into law in August 2022 partly out of concerns that a military attack on Taiwan could deprive the world of advanced computer chips and plunge the U.S. into a recession.

The coronavirus pandemic revealed the fragility of com-

The Associated Press NEW YORK — In a case of politics making strange bedfellows, the National Rifle Association will be represented by frequent nemesis the American Civil Liberties Union in an appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The New York-based civil liberties group confirmed Saturday that it would provide legal representation for the gun-rights group in its First Amendment case against New York’s Department of Financial Services even as it “vigorously” opposes nearly everything it stands for.

“We don’t support the NRA’s mission or its viewpoints on gun rights, and we don’t agree with their goals, strategies, or tactics,” the ACLU in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “But we both know that government officials can’t punish organizations because they disapprove of their views.”

The NRA, which reshared the

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH SATE JOURNAL

The ACLU is backing the NRA in a free speech fight before the Supreme Court.

ACLU’s statement on its social media account, wrote in a follow-up post that it was “proud”

to stand with the ACLU and others who recognize that “regulatory authority cannot be used to si-

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

KAREN PYRTLE | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Bob Wachs (L) interviewing author Darrin Locklear.

Native son authors book with life-changing goal

By Bob Wachs for Chatham News & Record SILER CITY — Darrin Locklear is on a different mission today than he might have been on growing up in Siler City in the 1970s and ‘80s. “People who remember me may remember I was a very troubled youth,” says the 56-year-old Trinity resident, now a real estate broker and auctioneer.

And while he says he’s come a long way through the years, the journey hasn’t been an easy one nor one without some lingering effects. It’s to that point he has authored a book drawing heavily on his life situations in his home town ranging from alcoholism to child abuse to homicides, all told in a narrative form.

“The events are real,” he says, “and while the names of anyone living have been changed, readers may recognize some people and places. My intent isn’t to call anyone out but to point out domestic violence is an awful thing that can have lasting effects and no one should have to put up with it.”

Darrin and his family lived in several places in Siler City. “I was three when we moved into a house on North Chatham Avenue; ‘Cotton Mill Hill’ most folks called it,” he says. “Later we moved into a house on North Garden.” It was during his childhood that Darrin found himself living in a troubled home with an alcoholic father and a mother suffering from mental illness who provoked his father.

“I idolized my father and wanted to be like him,” he says, so much so that when his father emptied a bottle of alcohol, he

“When memories are all you have left, you’ll cling to them like a life raft.”

Darrin Locklear would fill it with water so Darrin could have his own and have a dink each time his father did.

“There would be some left over in the bottle when he filled it so I eventually became addicted at an early age.”

Living in fear of whippings and beatings only added to the tense atmosphere at home that was often punctuated by fights by his parents. “I grew up with a bad reputation,” he freely admits, “and had run-ins with the law, fighting and getting into trouble. Today I appreciate the officers like Steve Phillips and Don Brown and Steve Robinson who tried to help me.” Coupled with that influence, Darrin credits his grandmother Margaret Newsome as the steadying human influence in his life.

He goes on to point out he began writing from memory about many events including his mother’s unfaithfulness to his father, her death from cancer at a young age when he was 16 and his father’s death from a shooting only moments after he shot and killed her lover.

Darrin admits people have asked him how he can remember details so vividly from memory. “I tell them.” he says, “when memories are all you have left, you’ll cling to them like a life raft.”

Initially, he began to write at therapy for himself. “I vented years of anger, resentment and bitterness into the keyboard as I cried, screamed and cursed at situations long past,” he notes in the book’s introduction. Then, over time he says, his perspective changed and he rediscovered his childhood Christian faith.

“I went back and rewrote the book to point people to the cross,” he says. “I wanted people who would read it to see the trauma of a young boy who was saved but always thought God was angry with him because of how his life was turning out.”

Since those childhood years, Darrin has gone through his own battles, including an addiction to alcohol.

“I have to stay on top of it,” he says. “Sometimes just the smell takes me back and I don’t want to go there.”

His recent marriage to wife Christy is another positive influence. “I still struggle sometimes,” he admits, “but I want people to understand it is a daily renewing. God is always present if you’ll come back. Over the past few years, I’ve been able to set the bitterness aside and realize I did love my parents despite how things went” Although no longer serving a church as pastor, Darrin and Christy have a nursing home ministry and he often speaks in churches to share his story. He’s scheduled to be at Brush Creek Baptist Church at the 11 o’clock service on Sunday, January 11.

Darrin will have a book signing this Saturday, December 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Best Foods Cafeteria in Siler City.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

10

What did you Google in 2023?

‘Barbie,’ Israel-Hamas war are among the year’s top internet searches The Associated Press NEW YORK — Your Google search history for 2023 has arrived.

Well, actually, the world’s.

On Monday, the California-based tech giant released its “Year in Search,” a roundup of 2023’s top global queries, ranging from unforgettable pop culture moments (hello, Barbenheimer ), to the loss of beloved figures and tragic news carrying worldwide repercussions.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war topped news trends in 2023, per Google’s global data, followed by queries related to the Titanic-bound submersible that imploded in June, as well as February’s devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

Damar Hamlin was Google’s top trending person on search this year. A safety with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, Hamlin experienced a near-death cardiac arrest on the field during a January game, but has since completed a celebrated comeback.

Actor Jeremy Renner, who survived a serious snowplow accident at the start of 2023, followed. Meanwhile, the late Matthew Perry and Tina Turner led search trends among notable individuals who passed

AP PHOTO

A cursor moves over Google’s search engine page, in Portland, Ore., on Aug. 28, 2018. away.

In the world of entertainment, “Barbie” dominated Google search’s movie trends this year — followed by Barbenheimer co-pilot “Oppenheimer” and Indian thriller “Jawan.” In TV, “The Last of Us,” “Wednesday” and “Ginny and Georgia” were the top three trending shows in 2023.

Japanese duo Yoasobi’s “Idol” was Google’s top trending song on search. Jason Aldean’s “Try That In A Small Town” — which soared in the charts after controversy this summer — and Shakira and Bizarrap’s “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53” followed.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg for Google’s 2023 global search trends. Bibimbap was the top trending recipe. Inter Miami CF, the new home of Ar-

SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK

gentine soccer superstar Lionel Messi, led Google’s sports teams trends. And in the U.S. specifically, many consumers spent 2023 asking why eggs, Taylor Swift tickets and sriracha bottles were so expensive — while “rizz” (recently named Oxford’s word of the year ) was a frontrunner for trending slang definition inquires.

You can find more data, including country-specific lists and trends from years past, on Google’s “Year in Search” archive. The company says it collected its 2023 search results from Jan. 1 through Nov. 27 of this year.

Google isn’t the only one to publish annual data as 2023 draws to a close — and from dictionary lookups to music streams, chances are, you’ve probably seen other lists recapping online activity this year.

Last week, for example, Wikipedia released its year-end list of most-viewed entries — with its article about ChatGPT leading the pack.

To mark the search engine’s 25th birthday, Google also released top search data “of all time” across various specific categories. Since 2004 (when the company’s trends data first became available globally), the most-Googled Grammy winner of all time has been Beyoncé, for example, while Portuguese soccer great Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest-searched athlete, and the most-searched movie or TV cast is “Harry Potter.”

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Cavs guard Max Strus returns to Miami and picks up an Emmy award The Associated Press MIAMI — Max Strus didn’t win a Larry O’Brien Trophy during his time in Miami.

He won an Emmy instead.

Strus, who left the Heat for the Cleveland Cavaliers last summer as a free agent, received his Emmy statuette for being part of a show detailing his path to the NBA and Miami.

The program called “Inside the Heat — Max Strus” was one of two in the “Sports Program — Post-Produced or Edited Series” division that earned Emmy wins for the Heat at the Suncoast Regional Emmy Awards show last weekend; a show centered on Heat executive vice president and general manager Andy Elisburg also won.

“We really enjoyed our time with Max and his family,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “We got to know his family really well.”

Strus joked this week that he didn’t know if Miami would do a red-carpet welcome as part of his Emmy prize. He settled for

a small ceremony about an hour before Friday’s game — and yes, he made a speech.

“Never thought I would have gotten one of these,” Strus told the Bally Sports crew after being presented with his statuette. He then thanked them for their work, saying “this is all you guys. I was just in the video. You guys made this happen.”

Strus entered Friday averaging 14.5 points this season for the Cavaliers, who gave him a $64 million, four-year contract.

Strus spent three seasons in Miami and was a starter for the team’s runs to the 2022 Eastern Conference finals and 2023 NBA Finals.

The Emmy awards were announced Dec. 2. Elisburg received his statuette Monday, and Friday was the first opportunity for the Heat to present Strus with his.

The Suncoast Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences covers television markets in all of Florida and Puerto Rico, plus some parts of Louisiana, Georgia and Alabama.

AP PHOTO

Cleveland Cavaliers’ Max Strus, left, tries to get past Philadelphia 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey during the first half of an NBA basketball in-season tournament game, Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, in Philadelphia.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Local farmers honored for poultry success North State Journal SILER CITY – Several local farmers and their farms were honored by a national poultry producer for their productivity and performance. Mountaire Farms, the fourth largest poultry producer in the nation, announced the winners of its annual top growers at a banquet in Pinehurst recently. The event celebrated “those who have significantly contributed to the company’s operations across North Carolina and South Carolina,” according to a press release from the company.

The Mountaire Ambassador Award was awarded to Terry Valk of Valk Poultry (Montgomery County). According to Mountaire, Valk went above and beyond to help a neighbor who also raised Mountaire chickens but was struggling with health issues. “Terry looked after the farm as if it were his own and exceeded even our expectations,” said Armando Mirande, Sr. Director of Live Operations for Mountaire. “He made multiple visits to the farm every day for weeks, worked on equipment, and called on other folks to help get the farm up to standards. In a situation like this it is good to have growers like him that you can trust to take care of business.”

The company presented the “Top Grower” awards to farmers who consistently outperform other farms. Six were selected from growers who raise chickens for the company’s Lumber Bridge processing plant, and six who raise chicken for the company’s Siler City processing

COURTESY PHOTO

Mountaire Farms top grower Josh Macon of Sunrise Farms in Randolph County. plant.

The top growers were: Josh Macon from Sunrise Farms (Randolph County), Justin Latham from Latham Poultry (Randolph County), Jay Simpson from Jay Simpson Farm (Randolph County), Bradley Morrison from Speck of Dirt Farm (Moore County), Michael Harris from Julie Harris Farm (Moore County), Kou Yang from Mirkwood Farm (Montgomery County), Terry Locklear from Terry & Sally Farm (Robeson County), Lola Rouse from Princess Ann Farm (Robeson

County), Randy Rankin from Hayden’s Farm (Marlboro County, SC), Wendell Locklear from Shanda Kay Farm and Wendell & Connie Farm (Robeson County), and Jace Ward from Jace & Megan Farm (Robeson County) were all celebrated for their excellence in poultry farming.

The event also acknowledged the “Most Improved Growers,” who have shown remarkable progress in their farming practices. This recognition went to David Melvin from Israel Farm (Bladen County), Jonathan Scott from Cambyl Farm (Robe-

son County), John Chisholm from Jeanette Chisholm Farm (Moore County), and Brian Crissman from Crissman Farm (Lee County).

Mountaire’s Environmental Stewardship Award winners, acknowledging their commitment to sustainable farming, were also honored. These included Tony Purvis from Walker Hill Farm (Moore County) for the first quarter, Jeff Lucas from Lucas Farm (Montgomery County) for the second quarter, Dustin Morrison from DM Morrison Farm (Moore County)

for the third quarter, and Roxana Shepard from Abner Mountain Farm (Montgomery County) for the fourth quarter.

Furthermore, the company paid tribute to their retiring growers, highlighting their long-term commitment and loyalty. These included Ricky McBride from Ricky McBride Farm (Montgomery County) with 23 years of service, David Sullivan from David Sullivan Farm (Richmond County) with 26 years, and Kim Garner (Moore County) with 27 years.

“A common sentiment among all our retiring growers is how much they always appreciated the treatment they received from Mountaire throughout the years,” said Mirande. “It’s always based on fairness and respect and that is why they stayed with us all those years.

Our history shows we have had so many more growers migrating from other integrators to us than those we have lost. There are plenty of companies to grow for in North Carolina and this record speaks for itself.

Mountaire opened it $170 million processing plant in Siler City in 2019. The 40-acre complex employs up to 1,250 people and Mountaire’s second in North Carolina behind its Lumber Bridge facility in Robeson County. The Siler City plant has the capacity to harvest 1.4 million chickens each week from over 100 local family farmers. The company also operates two hatcheries in Chatham County which contract with dozens of local vendors for goods and service related to chicken processing.

Why Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ became so popular — and stayed that way The Associated Press NEW YORK — If anything about Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” annoys you, best to avoid shopping malls now. Or the radio. Maybe music altogether, for that matter.

Her 1994 carol dominates holiday music like nothing else.

The Christmas colossus has reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart the past four years in a row — measuring the most popular songs each week by airplay, sales and streaming, not just the holiday-themed — and it’s reasonable to assume 2023 will be no different. One expert predicts it will soon exceed $100 million in earnings. Even its ringtone has sold millions.

“That song is just embedded in history now,” says David Foster, the 16-time Grammy-winning composer and producer. “It’s embedded in Christmas. When you think of Christmas right now, you think of that song.”

Yet the story behind “All I Want for Christmas is You” is not all holly and mistletoe.

The song’s co-authors, Carey and Walter Afanasieff, are in a mystifying feud. The authors of a different song with the same title have sued seeking $20 million in damages. While Carey calls herself the Queen of Christmas, her bid to trademark that title failed.

Every year on Nov. 1, the song’s hibernation ends when Carey posts on social media that “it’s time” to play it again. This year’s message depicted her being freed from a block of ice to make the declaration.

In both music and lyrics, the song was perfectly engineered for success, says Joe Bennett, musicologist and professor at the Berklee College of Music. And it came from an artist who was at the top of her game at the time.

“All I Want for Christmas is You” works as a love and holiday song. Carey sets it up: She doesn’t care about all the holiday trappings, she has one thing — one person — on her mind. She sprinkles in specific holiday references, from Santa Claus to mistletoe.

The instruments and brisk arrangement recall Phil Spector’s 1965 album, “A Christmas Gift for You,” itself a holiday classic. To top it off, part of the melody slyly references “White Christmas,” Bennett says.

“That was my goal, to do some-

AP PHOTO

Mariah Carey performs at the New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square, Dec. 31, 2017, in New York. thing timeless,” Carey explained in a recent “Good Morning America” interview.

Billboard has produced lists of top seasonal hits since 2010, and “All I Want for Christmas is You” has been No. 1 for 57 of the 62 weeks it has run, said Gary Trust, chart director. Will Page, Spotify’s former chief economist and author of the book “Pivot,” estimates the song will exceed $100 million in earnings this holiday season.

“By most objective measures,” Bennett says, “it’s the most successful Christmas song of all time.”

As Afanasieff has told it, much of the work on “All I Want for Christmas is You” was done by him and Carey working in a rented house in the summer of 1994.

The team had a history, working on Carey’s albums “Emotions” and “Music Box.” He started with a boogie-woogie piano, tossing out melodic ideas that Carey would respond to with lyrics, he said on last year’s podcast, “Hot Takes & Deep Dives with Jess Rothschild” (Afanasieff

did not return messages from The Associated Press). Later, Carey completed the lyrics herself and Afanasieff recorded all the instruments, he said.

Then things became complicated. Carey was married at the time to Tommy Mottola, head of Sony Music. They broke up in 1997 and her relationship with Afanasieff, who kept working for Mottola, became a casualty of that fractured marriage. Afanasieff said they’ve spoken once in more than 20 years, and it his contributions have been written out of Carey’s telling of the song’s creation.

On “Good Morning America” last month, she said, “I was working on it by myself, so I was writing on this little Casio keyboard, writing down words and thinking about, ‘What do I think about Christmas? What do I love? What do I want? What do I dream of?” she says. “And that’s what started it.

Afanasieff sounds almost bewildered by the turn of events.

He told Variety in 1999 that every holiday season he has to de-

fend himself against people who don’t believe he co-wrote the song.

“Mariah has been very wonderful, positive and a force of nature,” he told Variety. “She’s the one that made the song a hit and she’s awesome. But she definitely does not share credit where credit is due.”

Last month, songwriters Andy Stone and Troy Powers sued Carey and Afanasieff in federal court in California, seeking $20 million in copyright infringement and citing their own 1989 country song, “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Their song has a similar theme, with a narrator desiring a love interest before Christmas comforts. The writers cite an “overwhelming likelihood” that Carey and Afanasieff had heard their song.

The two songs have no musical similarities, Berklee’s Bennett says, and the theme is hardly unique. He pointed out Bing Crosby’s “You’re All I Want for Christmas,” Carla Thomas’ “All

I Want for Christmas is You” and Buck Owens’ “All I Want for Christmas, Dear, is You.” Says the musicologist: “It’s nonsense.”

In his podcast appearance, Afanasieff noted how Foster once told him that “All I Want for Christmas is You” was the last song to enter the Christmas canon and “that vault is sealed.”

Foster told AP he exaggerated a little, but not a lot. Writing a new holiday song is brutally hard, since you’re competing with not just current hits but hundreds of years of songs and memories. The old classics never go away.

“I just stay away from them, because they scare me,” Foster says. “Lyrically, it’s sort of all been done before — better than I can ever do.”

While he appreciates Foster’s compliment, Afanasieff told Rothschild that he hoped others don’t take it to heart.

“I urge songwriters every year,” he says. “It’s time to write the next ‘A ll I Want for Christmas is You.’”

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 42 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Raeford’s finest Raeford Police Officer Daniel Johnson poses with his wife Alysa and Chief Marcus Godwin after receiving a commendation from Mayor John K. McNeill and the Raeford City Council last week.

In October, Officer Johnson and Sergeant Timothy Chippewa administered a dose of Naloxone to an man lying unconscious on a porch, then removed a porch railing that was blocking access for EMS personnel.

Paramedics administered a second dose of Naloxone and the man regained consciousness and was transported to an area hospital.

HAL NUNN FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign fights holiday impaired driving North Carolina launched a “Booze It & Lose It” campaign this week to combat impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, it focuses on deterring drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and other impairing substances.

Mark Ezzell, director of the GHSP, expressed concern about the heightened risk of impaired driving during the holidays, noting that over 25 percent of North Carolina’s crash fatalities in 2022 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. The N.C. Department of Transportation reported 471 alcohol-related crash fatalities last year.

The campaign highlights the availability of various transportation options, including designated sober drivers and rideshare services to ensure safe travel.

USDA introduces online farm loan applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an innovative online application system for its Direct Loan program.

This initiative is expected to benefit over 26,000 annual applicants, offering a paperless, interactive, and guided process, complete with electronic signature and document upload capabilities.

The tool is part of the USDA’s Farm Service Agency efforts to enhance customer service and increase credit accessibility.

This launch aligns with FSA’s broader initiative to automate and streamline processes, including simplifying the direct loan paper application from 29 to 13 pages and introducing an interactive online guide on farmers.gov to assist with loan product selection and application.

Moore courts tackle backlog with ‘DWI Week’ Special session part of statewide effort to address judicial delays

By Jordan Golson North State Journal CARTHAGE — Local courts face significant backlogs in pending cases, so district attorneys are getting creative.

For the third year in a row, District Attorney Mike Hardin — who represents both Moore and Hoke counties — worked with the Moore District Court to tackle 73 DWI cases that had been pending for more than a year. The special weeklong court session, running from Nov. 27

to Dec. 1, 2023, saw two courtrooms running full-tilt to bring 38 cases to a conclusion, with DA Hardin’s team racking up an 89 percent conviction rate.

The session, focusing on cases from November 2022 and earlier, was part of a broader effort across North Carolina to reduce judicial delays, a situation that had worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional prosecutors from the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys were brought in to help manage the cases.

This initiative is an example of the efforts made by judicial districts across the state to address the enormous backlog that peaked at 1.2 million cases during the

“DWIs take a while to try.

District Court is only three days a week, and there are traffic offenses, speeding tickets, and those sorts of things.”

District Attorney Mike Hardin pandemic. As of August 2023, this number has been reduced to 900,000, marking a 25% reduction statewide.

Of the 38 cases brought for bench trials in front of district

court judges, two were dismissed outright — one after a defense motion to suppress was granted and the other because the defendant had a .04 blood alcohol content, below the legal limit in North Carolina. In two other cases, the judge found the defendant not guilty. One case was a felony charge because of prior DWI convictions and was elevated to Superior Court for trial.

In an interview with North State Journal, Hardin explained the scheduling challenges in a county like Moore.

“DWIs take a while to try. District Court is only three days a week, and there are traffic offenses, speeding tickets, and those sorts of things,” Hardin said.

“Three days a week and not even every week. At an hour or two per case, we can’t dispose of them if we take every case to trial.”

Old cases are a challenge for law enforcement, too. A North Carolina State Trooper who See DWI, page 2

Hoke deputies seize drugs and firearms in traffic stop North State Journal DEPUTIES WITH the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit and Violent Crime Task Force pulled over a blue Jeep on Davis Bridge Road on December 4 after allegedly observing multiple traffic violations, according to a statement from the department.

The vehicle’s driver, identified as Dicorion Jashaun Leach, was arrested after officers discovered a rifle in the vehicle, along with an odor of marijuana. A drug-detecting canine was dispatched and alerted, leading to the discovery of some 68 pounds of marijuana, over 120 THC vape pens, and a substantial amount of cash.

Leach faces charges of trafficking marijuana by possession and transport, possession with intent to sell/ deliver marijuana, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. He was booked into the Hoke County Detention Center with a $500,000 secured bond.

COURTESY HOKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Dicorion Jashaun Leach.

COURTESY HOKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

A Hoke county canine unit poses with some 68 pounds of seized marijuana.

$2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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“Join the conversation” DWI from page 1 Neal Robbins, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Ryan Henkel, Reporter Jesse Deal, Reporter P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

transferred to the western part of the state months ago was able to finish his last few cases last week — all helpfully scheduled on the same day.

“It’s one of the more serious things that happens at District Court,” Hardin said. “People get a lawyer, and then the lawyer does all the things that a lawyer wants to do,” which results in a necessarily longer proceeding than something simple like a speeding ticket.

“I would like to thank the Moore County Clerk’s Office, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Moore County Sheriff’s Office Bailiff Staff, and the many different law enforcement agencies that worked with my office to make this week a success,” said Hardin in a press release. “I would also like to thank the Conference of District Attorneys for providing their assistance and providing staff to assist my office.”

New Hanover County implemented a similar strategy to tackle its backlog of DWI cas-

es. District Attorney Ben David set up a backlog court that focused on over 70 cases awaiting trial for more than a year. This approach, necessitated by the complexities of poly-impairment cases involving substances other than alcohol, required specialized testing and expert witness coordination.

The success in Moore County, New Hanover, and others is reflective of a statewide initiative to combat the scheduling challenges faced during the pandemic. The AOC has highlighted numerous strategies employed across the state, such as holding court off-site, employing advanced technology, and streamlining case management processes.

Chief District Court Judge Scott Ussery moved some special sessions outside the courthouse to tackle the backlogs in Bladen, Brunswick, and Columbus counties. “We got approval to go off-site, and we went five miles down the road and found a gymnasium, cafeteria, and media center, and for 11 months, we held court,” said Judge Ussery

on an Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) podcast. “We did everything we could as the stakeholders in our community to make sure the system didn’t stop.”

Hardin said remaining untried cases, delayed for a variety

of reasons such as unavailable defendants, defense attorneys, or law enforcement, should be resolved over the next few months.

A first misdemeanor DWI conviction typically results in probation, community service, and a fine.

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CRIME LOG December 11 x Sequan Mortez McNeill, 34, was arrested and charged with unauthorized use of motor vehicle. He was not given a bond. x Robert Durant Blue, 41, was arrested and charged with failure to support a spouse and/or children, obtaining property by false pretense, and possession of cocaine. He is being held of a $500 cash bond. x Chad Matthews Staples, 39, was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. No bond was issued.

December 8 x Telisa Ann Thomas, 38, was

arrested and charged with credit card theft with a scanning device.

She received a $10,000 bond. x Christian Berberana Diaz, 43, was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.

No bond was issued. x Devin Shabazz Cuthrell, 23, was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.

No bond was issued. x Corey Flint Lanning, 34, was arrested as a fugitive from justice and is being held at the Hoke County Jail under a $75,000 bail. x Lannie Dale Locklear, 58, was arrested and charged with larceny from a construction site and conspiracy to commit a felony. He received a $10,000 bond.

December 4

A weekly podcast getting to the facts across the state, around the world and at home HERE in Raeford, Hoke County, NC.

x Justin Lamar Harrinton, 30, was arrested and charged with violating a domestic violence protective order, felony breaking and entering, and larceny after breaking and entering. He is being held on a $50,000 bond.

December 3 x Calvin Jamale Roper, 33, was arrested and charged with second degree trespassing and attempted common law robbery.

He is being held on a $1,900 secure bond. x Javier Gapi Diaz, 31, was arrested and charged with statutory rape of a child between 13-15 years old.

He is being held without bond.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

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COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

For true evil, look to communism

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Vladimir Lenin was a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years.

FOR THOSE DISMAYED at how many college and university students and faculty, even, or especially, at selective and prestigious institutions, have been cheering Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocities and calling, in only slightly veiled language, for the destruction of Israel and genocide of Jews, the question is how this vicious line of thought gained hold in American secondary and higher education.

The answer seems to be that students have been infected, in high schools and colleges, with a virus that enables them to see history only as a struggle between oppressors and the oppressed, between vicious exploiters and virtuous victims.

This obviously owes something to Marxism, which teaches that an oppressed and exploited proletariat will inherit all power — or at least be the beneficiary of the intellectuals who grab it. But that version has had to be revised because contemporary working classes refused to play their assigned roles and mouth the lines that leftist intellectuals dictated to them.

Instead, the script has been adapted to attack other targets, with the vicious oppressors depicted as settlers coming into a new land and the virtuous oppressed depicted as previous residents and indigent peoples. This has the advantage of defining, if you twist the history a few times, the United States and Israel as villain regimes rather than as the historic leaders they have been and are in advancing religious tolerance, freedom of expression, rule of law, and electoral democracy.

One way to put this into perspective is to visit one of Washington, D.C.’s newest and least known museums, the Victims of Communism Museum, on McPherson Square, a few blocks from the White

House. There you will get an idea of what true oppression is like — and how it has slaughtered 100 million people and blighted the lives of hundreds of millions of others.

It’s not a story in which American secondary schools or higher education seem much interested these days. For it tells how small gaggles of would-be intellectuals and violent gang leaders — frequently, as in the case of Joseph Stalin, the same person — gained dictatorial control of enormous nations while posing as champions of the supposedly virtuous, downtrodden masses.

From a combination of visual images and texts, you can learn how Vladimir Lenin was not the mild reformer that some apologists claim but instead a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years. You can read excerpts from Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s “Gulag Archipelago” and view paintings

by Gulag survivors.

There’s a separate section devoted to the Chinese Communist Party, which next year will have been in power for 75 years — one year longer than the run of the Soviet Union. Young people who think it’s cool to wear Mao T-shirts might pay special attention to the exhibits on the 1959-61 Great Leap Forward, which was actually a great leap to starvation for 30 million people.

And Mao’s Cultural Revolution, with its purges of wrong thinkers and executions and rural exiles of professionals, enforced by youthful Red Guards, will have a certain familiar ring for those familiar with contemporary American campuses.

Of particular interest to me were the exhibits on the Baltic States’s self-

liberation from the Soviet Union. I was in Estonia, reporting for U.S. News and World Report, in October 1989, just two months after the human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania marked the 50th anniversary of the Hitler-Stalin pact. I remember the European traffic signal-like signs, with a red diagonal line within a red circle and the numbers 23.08.39 and the names Molotov and Ribbentrop — the foreign ministers who signed the alliance of the two totalitarian tyrants on Aug. 23, 1939.

That enabled Adolf Hitler and Stalin to start dividing up Poland and the Baltics nine days later. The U.S., thankfully, never recognized the Soviet absorption of the Baltics, and today, they and Poland are part of NATO and providing vital aid to Ukraine.

Victims of Communism Museum President Andrew Bremberg tells me that when he asks students how many have heard of Stalin, about 1 out of 10 hands goes up. And when he asks students or adults who has heard of the Hitler-Stalin pact, no one raises a hand.

That’s unfortunate because this alliance of totalitarians, which with its allies controlled almost all of Europe and half of the land mass of Asia by spring 1941, was what inspired George Orwell’s dystopia in “1984.” Had Hitler not attacked Stalin in June 1941, could beleaguered Britain and technically neutral America have ended their totalitarian tyranny?

Young people and their elders who cheer the gleeful torture and murders of Oct. 7 do not understand what true evil is like. They could get a better idea at the Victims of Communism Museum.

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

COLUMN | MATT SEAHOLM

Recycling is real We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today to stay in our economy and out of the environment.

RECYCLING CONTINUES to be the center of environmental conversations these days, especially as we look to reach our shared sustainability goals, increase recycling rates and reduce plastic waste.

Unfortunately, there are still some who claim that plastic recycling will ‘never work,’ and continue to create roadblocks to meeting important sustainability objectives — namely increased recycling rates.

In just the past few years, the plastics industry that we are proud to represent, has announced over $8 billion dollars in investments into new technologies, facilities, and innovations that will make recycling that much more of a reality.

In those same few years, we have seen a dramatic shift in the messaging coming from anti-plastic activist organizations who are more interested in perpetuating a problem rather than solving one. They say things like “plastic recycling is a myth.”

They block compromise legislation. They even tell people not to bother recycling.

That is not environmentalism, and it is why the industry has launched a campaign to say three small words in a big way.

Recycling is real. Tens of thousands of Americans go to work every day making it happen and that is exactly what this new initiative, Recycling Is Real, can show you. We have traveled across America and filmed ordinary people doing

extraordinary things, including right here in North Carolina. We show that it is possible for that bottle you used today, or even the bumper on your car from years past, to stay in our economy and out of the environment, giving it another life, sometimes more than once.

For most, “recyclable” defines whether something can be put into a blue or green bin. But the truth is, that’s only the first step in a process that turns a used product into material that can be made into yet another product.

Recycling is Real highlights the industry’s commitment to recycling by showing who these folks really are and that their role in the circular economy is not fictional or imaginary. From shredding the old material to extruding the new material or creating the equipment that makes it possible to design safe new ways to put more recycled content into products, the people in these videos invite the viewer to come and see what they do, showing us that it’s truly undeniable that recycling is both feasible and economical. Moving forward, this campaign will continue to share examples of recycling success stories.

Naysayers from the anti-recycling groups are likely to say, “If recycling is real, then why are some recycling rates still so low?” That is a fair question and one that can be easily answered. Infrastructure for recycling simply has not kept up with the incredible innovations in products and materials over the past few decades. These include innovations that provide value in other ways like reducing food waste, enhancing safety, and minimizing the

material used to make a product.

We must invest in recycling infrastructure and, as an industry, we understand that we have a role to play in helping to fund that infrastructure. It’s why we support well-constructed extended producer responsibility programs, which place a small fee on products the plastics industry manufactures, especially in packaging. It’s also why the plastics industry supports attainable minimum recycled content requirements that establish guaranteed end-markets for material and in turn, spur private investment. But manufacturers and recyclers cannot increase rates on their own. We need partners ― lawmakers who share our commitment to sustainability and solutions; brand owners dedicated to the use of recycled content in products and packaging, and retail establishments who want to make it as easy as possible to place that used product in the blue bin.

And yes, consumers must be at the heart of this effort by finding that bin and knowing what goes where.

I would encourage you to listen to the words of the workers, including those right here in North Carolina, who proudly show recycling is far from a “myth.” It’s happening every day and once we agree on the reality of recycling and put an end to false narratives, we can work together to get recycling rates where we all want them to be.

Recycling is Real — see for yourself.

Matt Seaholm is President and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association.

3

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

4 SIDELINE REPORT

SPORTS

NBA

Voters consider sales tax for new $1B Thunder arena Oklahoma City Oklahoma City voters will decide whether to approve a 1% sales tax to fund a new downtown arena for the NBA’s Thunder. The vote on the six-year tax is set for Tuesday. Under a proposed agreement with the team’s owners, the team would stay in the city through at least 2050 if it’s approved. Local leaders say the new arena will continue Oklahoma City’s momentum as a top-tier city. But many city residents are concerned the team’s owners, who are some of the wealthiest Oklahomans, are contributing only 5% of the cost of the new arena.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Bronny James makes college debut for USC Los Angeles Bronny James had four points, three rebounds and two assists in his college debut for Southern California nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest. Playing in front of his father, LeBron James, the 19-year-old freshman logged 16 minutes in the Trojans’ 84-79 overtime loss to Long Beach State. James shot 1 of 3, making a 3-pointer in the second half. Later, he made a huge block that drew cheers. The younger James suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout on campus. He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.

WNBA

Fever win WNBA Draft lottery top pick again Uncasville, Conn.

The Indiana Fever won the WNBA Draft lottery Sunday and will pick No. 1 for the second straight year. The Fever, who took Aliyah Boston last season with the top pick, will now have to wait and see which players decide to enter the draft. Generational talents Caitlin Clark of Iowa, UConn’s Paige Bueckers and LSU’s Angel Reese all have the option to return to school for another season due to the extra year they were granted for the coronavirus. Los Angeles has the No. 2 pick with Phoenix choosing third and Seattle fourth.

AP PHOTO

Shohei Ohtani signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract to join the nearby Dodgers.

Ohtani agrees to record $700M, 10-year deal with Dodgers The two-way superstar twice won AL MVP with the Angels The Associated Press NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani has set a financial record to go along with his singular on-field performance, getting $700 million to make a 30-mile move up Interstate 5 to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a midafternoon news release Saturday announcing the 10-year contract, ending months of speculation that began even before Ohtani became a free agent on Nov. 2. In recent days, media and fans had tracked private plane movements and alleged sightings like detectives in attempts to discern the intentions of the twotime AL MVP with the Angels.

“This is a unique, historic contract for a unique, historic player,” Balelo said. “He is excited to begin this partnership, and he structured his contract to reflect a true commitment from both sides to long-term success.”

Ohtani’s total was 64% higher than baseball’s previous record,

a $426.5 million, 12-year deal for Angels outfielder Mike Trout that began in 2019.

His $70 million average salary is 62% above the previous high of $43,333,333, shared by pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander with deals they struck with the New York Mets.

Ohtani’s average salary nearly doubles the roughly $42.3 million he earned with the Angels.

It also exceeds the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland this year.

His agreement includes unprecedented deferred money that will lower the amount it counts toward the Dodgers’ luxury tax payroll, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the details were not announced.

This is perhaps the largest contract in sports history, topping highs believed to be set by soccer stars Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

There was no immediate comment by the Dodgers. Ohtani has not spoken with reporters since Aug. 9.

“I apologize for taking so long

$70M Annual salary for Shohei Ohtani in his new deal with the Dodgers, more than the entire payrolls of Baltimore and Oakland last season. to come to a decision,” Ohtani said in an English-language statement on Instagram. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved with the Angels organization and the fans who have supported me over the past six years, as well as to everyone involved with each team that was part of this negotiation process.

“And to all Dodgers fans, I pledge to always do what’s best for the team and always continue to give it my all to be the best version of myself,” he continued. “Until the last day of my playing career, I want to continue to strive forward not only for the Dodgers but for the baseball

world.”

Ohtani joins a lineup that also includes 2018 AL MVP Mookie Betts and 2020 NL MVP Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers won the NL West this year for the 10th time in 11 seasons before they were swept by Arizona in the Division Series in October.

Los Angeles begins the 2024 season in Seoul, South Korea, against San Diego on March 2021.

Ohtani’s decision came six years and one day after he first agreed to his deal with Angels.

Ohtani has redefined modern baseball since he chose the Angels as his first major league team. Nobody has come close to matching his achievements at the plate and on the mound, becoming one of the majors’ elite players in both roles when healthy. Along the way, he has become one of the most marketable athletes in the world, a force when it comes to ticket sales, TV ratings and sponsorship revenue.

He was a unanimous AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 — he finished second in 2022 — winning this year despite injuring his elbow in late August and an oblique muscle in early September.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Seventy-First has Bucks’ number Basketball Bucks come out of gate fast North State Journal THE BOYS’ basketball team opened the year with a 5-2 record that included a four-game winning streak. Hoke County opened the week with road wins on back-to-back days, 70-59 at South View and 59-50 at Red Springs, before a 60-53 home loss to Seventy-First snapped the streak.

Senior Braydon Mckoy led the

scoring with 20 points against South View, hitting 6-of-10 from three. For the year, he’s hit more than half of his 3-point attempts.

Junior Franajai Ransom pulled down 11 rebounds, and athlete of the week Salah Sutton had an all-around dominant game.

Future looks bright The JV team has also opened the season red hot, with five wins in six games. The younger Bucks knocked off South View, 65-43, to open the week, then suffered their first loss, at Seventy-First,

72-68. Josiah Jacobs has been the leading scorer on JV, and players to watch also include a pair of freshmen—Jeremiah Harper and Gabriel McLeod.

Lady Bucks look for spark After recording its first win of the season last week, the girls’ basketball team lost a pair this week, falling at South View, 6523, then losing to Seventy-First, 56-26. The Lady Bucks have spread the scoring wealth fairly evenly, and Hoke has been strong on the boards, led by Karmen Campbell and Shelby Burris.

The JV girls’ team split its two games last week and is 2-2 on the year. The Bucks beat South View, 46-31. Seventy-First then completed a basketball sweep of Hoke for the week, with a girls’ JV win by a 45-23 score.

5

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Salah Sutton

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hoke County, boys’ basketball

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Karmen Campbell (back to camera) blocks a shot during last year’s game against Pinecrest.

Campbell, a sophomore, leads the Bucks in blocks, with nearly two a game, as well as rebounding and shooting percentage.

Salah Sutton is a senior on the Hoke County boys’ basketball team.

The Bucks extended their winning streak to four games with a pair of wins this week before losing to Seventy-First.

Sutton has being Hoke County’s leading scorer so far this season. In a win over South View to start the week, he had 17 points, second to teammate Braydon Mckoy’s 20. Sutton also added 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 blocked shots.

LSU quarterback Daniels wins Heisman Trophy Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was runner-up The Associated Press NEW YORK — Jayden Daniels, LSU’s dazzling dual-threat quarterback, won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night, becoming the first player since 2016 to win college football’s most prestigious player of the year award as part of a team that did not play for a conference championship.

The fifth-year player, who transferred from Arizona State to LSU in 2022, received 503 first-place votes and 2,029 points after accounting for 50 touchdowns and nearly 5,000 total yards in just 12 regular-season games.

“This is a dream come true,” Daniels started his acceptance speech.

Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was the runner-up with 292 first-place votes and 1,701 points and Oregon’s Bo Nix was third (51, 885), putting transfer quarterbacks in each of the top three spots. Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. finished fourth (20, 352).

Wearing a sharp light gray suit, Daniels dropped his head

AP PHOTO

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels kisses the Heisman Trophy after winning the award Saturday in New York. for a moment when his name was called. He was the favorite to win the award but said he felt relieved when it was official.

Still, he stayed composed throughout his speech when he thanked everyone from his offensive line to the groundskeepers at Tigers Stadium and cafe-

teria workers who help feed the team.

“I wasn’t really like, emotional, like crying,” Daniels said later at a news conference. “I guess it’s kind of how I play on the field.

I’m just enjoying the moment, just embracing everything, giving thanks to God.”

Daniels, who turns 23 on Dec. 18, won AP Player of the Year earlier in the week.

Daniels is the fifth quarterback in the last seven seasons to win the Heisman after transferring, joining former LSU star Joe Burrow in 2019 and USC’s Caleb Williams last year.

“I want to thank all my teammates, from Arizona State to LSU,” Daniels said. “You’re my brothers. You work so hard every day, inspiring me to be my best.”

He is also LSU’s third Heisman winner overall, along with running back Billy Cannon in 1959.

Burrow led LSU to a national championship and Cannon’s team came close, finishing No. 3 in the country.

Daniels’ Tigers (9-3) slipped out of that race with two losses in the first six weeks, but he certainly wasn’t to blame.

“I really wish I could have brought you back another championship,” Daniels said as he thanked the LSU fans.

Week after week he fueled the best offense in the country with his passing (3,812 yards) and running (1,134). He leads the nation in total offense at 412 yards per game and is averaging an astounding 10.71 yards per play.

No. 13 LSU is set to face Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Jan. 1, though Daniels has not yet decided if he will play the final game of his college career.

The next stop for the 6-foot-4, 210-pounder could be the NFL Draft combine, with his stock on the rise but no guarantee to be a first-round pick.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

6

The GOP’s slim House majority is getting even tighter with Kevin McCarthy’s retirement The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Speaker Mike Johnson’s margin for error in getting Republican priorities through the House is getting slimmer, complicating future votes and magnifying the ability of individual lawmakers to force concessions.

Republicans had just a 222213 margin before Rep. George Santos of New York was expelled in a broad, bipartisan vote a week ago. Then, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California announced Thursday he would be retiring at the end of the month. He was the first speaker ever booted from the position, a victim of a process he had agreed to implement that allowed just a few defections from within the GOP ranks to oust him.

The margins before both representatives’ exits allowed Republicans to lose up to four votes on a party-line ballot and still get a bill over the finish line, assuming every lawmaker was in attendance.

Now that margin is down to three votes. It could even drop to two if Democrats flip the Santos seat in a special election set for Feb. 13, which would leave their majority at 220-214.

AP PHOTO

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., criticizes President Joe Biden’s policies and efforts on the debt limit negotiations as he holds a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio, is also expected to leave to begin a new job as president of Youngstown State University. It’s unclear when he’ll begin that job, but it’s no later than March 15.

Practical impact “It just makes everything harder. It’s just that simple,” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. “You have to

have perfect attendance, which is hard to get. And you have to have perfect agreement, which is damn hard to get.”

Looking ahead to 2024, the 11term congressman from Oklahoma also noted that lawmakers during election years look to spend more time back in their congressional districts than in

Washington, leaving the focus on the most basic functions of government — namely a spending bill to keep agencies and programs functioning.

“I just don’t see much in the way of major legislative accomplishments next year with the margins this narrow and government this divided,” he said.

Others see a rather muted impact. After all, the GOP’s narrow margin for error has already proven difficult for the party’s leaders to overcome.

It took McCarthy 15 votes to finally be elected speaker once the new Congress began in January.

And that was only the beginning of his troubles.

The House’s staunchest conservatives brought the chamber to a standstill after he made an agreement with the White House in May that did not cut spending as much as they wanted. And then, when the House ousted McCarthy in October, Republicans cycled through three potential replacements before finally landing on Johnson.

How much harder could it really get?

“Clearly, I’d rather move from four to six than from four to two,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., of the Republican voting cushion.

Two networks announce GOP presidential debates just days apart at same New Hampshire school The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two television networks announced they would hold separate Republican presidential debates at the same location in New Hampshire just ahead of that state’s GOP primary next month, but officials at Saint Anselm College said they were only aware of one of the events.

CNN said that it would host a Jan. 10 debate at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, five days before the state’s first-inthe-nation caucuses, and a Jan. 21 debate at Saint Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire, two days before that state’s leadoff primary.

Later, ABC News and WMUR-TV announced that they would partner for a Jan. 18 debate at Saint Anselm College.

Neil Levesque, executive director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm, told The Associated Press he was not aware of any planning for an event with CNN. “I have no idea about anything with any other network,” Levesque said, referring to the CNN event.

Levesque was quoted in a news release about the ABC and WMUR-TV debate, noting that both Democratic and Republican candidates had participated

AP PHOTO

Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy participate in a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by NewsNation on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at the Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. in debates at the college in every presidential cycle since 2008.

No Saint Anselm official was quoted in CNN’s release about its Iowa and New Hampshire debates, although Drake University — the site of CNN’s Iowa debate — did issue its own news release about that event.

A CNN spokesperson on Friday declined to “speak to any miscommunication within Saint Anselm” but said in a statement that the network was “moving forward with our plans to host a debate in New Hampshire on January 21.”

The debate announcements

came a day after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie met for the fourth debate of the 2024 primary season. Former President Donald Trump, the GOP front-runner

“But I wouldn’t want to overstate the impact.”

Prospects for another speaker revolt?

It takes only one member of the House to make a motion to remove the speaker, or “vacate the chair.” Johnson has generated some grumbling from members, but they also seem more sympathetic to the difficulties he faces in getting House Republicans to unite on major legislation.

Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., one of McCarthy’s most trusted advisers, said the last thing many members want is to go down the same road as they did with McCarthy.

“Is there risk, yes, because you still have the one-member motion to vacate,” Graves said.

“Risk, yes. Likely, no.”

He said, “There’s a lot of scar tissue within the conference.”

Members who put themselves up for the job of speaker were attacked by their colleagues. Others were offended by the total number of votes they ended up getting. There’s not an appetite to repeat that process.

“The other reason that I don’t think it’s likely is because more people are coming to the realization that leading in this environment is really hard,” Graves said.

for the 2024 nomination, has yet to take part in any debate and has said he doesn’t plan to.

The RNC said in a statement Friday that the debates scheduled for January were not affiliated with the RNC but that candidates would be permitted to participate if they wanted to.

“Candidates are free to use any forum or format to communicate to voters as they see fit,” the RNC said.

The qualifications for candidates to participate in the debates are getting stricter. To qualify for CNN’s Iowa debate, candidates must register at least 10% support in three separate polls, either nationally or in Iowa, according to CNN. CNN said candidates who finish in one of the top three spots in the Iowa caucuses would be invited to participate in its New Hampshire debate, as well as those who meet CNN’s polling qualification, which include a 10% polling threshold in New Hampshire.

One of the three polls must be an approved CNN poll from the respective state. Unlike previous debates approved by the RNC, participants are not required to meet fundraising marks from a specific number of donors.

The qualifying window for the Iowa debate closes Jan. 2.

It’s Jan. 16 for the New Hampshire debate.

ABC and WMUR-TV did not specify qualifications for their New Hampshire debate, saying the information would be released at a later date.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

7

obituaries

Mary Lee Sosa Aguilar

Vanessa Ann Edwards

May 6, 1973 - December 3, 2023

February 11, 1956 - December 7, 2023

Ms. Mary Lee Chavis Sosa Aguilar formerly of Lumber Bridge, was born Sunday May 6, 1973 to the late Walter Purnell Chavis and Carrie Bell Chavis in Scotland county and passed away Sunday December 3, 2023 completing her journey of 50 years.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a brother: Shawn Evans.

Mary leaves to cherish her love and memories a husband Juan David Sosa Aguilar of Lumber Bridge, NC; a daughter Carrie E. Mitchell of Lumberton, NC; two sons Williere P. Chavis and David W. Mitchell, both of Rowland, NC; four brothers Timmy Chavis of Rowland, Jimmy and Josh Chavis, both of Fairmont, NC; and Glendale Oxendine of Shannon, NC; one sister Suzanne Chavis of SC; and special friends Ann Maitland, Brook Lee, Suzanne Godwin, Zuly Perez, Maria Pleitez, and Connie Evans; ten grandchildren; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Vanessa Edwards age, 67 went home to rest with her heavenly father on December 7, 2023.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories her husband, Robert L. Edwards Sr.; children: Angeleke Edwards, Robert L. Edwards Jr., Richard L. Edwards; sister, Susan L. Ladson; brothers: Maurice H. Linton, Frederick A. Linton eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. Vanessa will be greatly missed.

or candin the deicter. To a debate, gister at ree sepaally or in N. s who finree spots would be n its New well as s polling nclude a The Associated Press in New LOS ANGELES — Ryan olls must O’Neal, the heartthrob actor poll from who went from a TV soap opnlike pre- era to an Oscar-nominated role d by the in “Love Story” and delivered a e not re- wry performance opposite his ndraising charismatic 9-year-old daughumber of ter Tatum in “Paper Moon,” died Friday, his son said. ndow for “My dad passed away peaces Jan. 2. fully today, with his loving team w Hamp- by his side supporting him and loving him as he would us,” V did not Patrick O’Neal, a Los Angeles for their sportscaster, posted on Instae, saying gram. d be reNo cause of death was given. Ryan O’Neal was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2012, a decade after he was first diagnosed with chronic leukemia.

He was 82.

“My father, Ryan O’Neal, has always been my hero,” Patrick O’Neal wrote, adding, “He is a Hollywood legend. Full stop.”

“He meant the world to me. I loved him very much and know he loved me too,” Tatum O’Neal told People magazine in a statement. “I’ll miss him forever. and I feel very lucky that we ended on such good terms.”

Ryan O’Neal was among the biggest movie stars in the world in the 1970s, working across genres with many of the era’s most celebrated directors including Peter Bogdanovich on “Paper Moon” and “What’s Up, Doc?” and Stanley Kubrick on “Barry Lyndon.” He often used his boyish, blond good looks to play men who hid shadowy or sinister backgrounds behind their clean-cut images.

O’Neal maintained a steady television acting career into his 70s in the 2010s, appearing for stints on “Bones” and “Desperate Housewives,” but his longtime relationship with Farrah Fawcett and his tumultuous family life kept him in news.

Twice divorced, O’Neal was romantically involved with Fawcett for nearly 30 years, and they

Celebrate the life of your loved ones.

Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

Ryan O’Neal, star of ‘Love Story,’ ‘Paper Moon,’ ‘Peyton Place’ and ‘Barry Lyndon,’ dies at 82

AP PHOTO

Tatum O’Neal, left, a cast member in “The Runaways,” and her father, actor Ryan O’Neal, pose together at the premiere of the film in Los Angeles, Thursday, March 11, 2010. had a son, Redmond, born in 1985. The couple split in 1997, but reunited a few years later.

He remained by Fawcett’s side as she battled cancer, which killed her in 2009 at age 62.

With his first wife, Joanna Moore, O’Neal fathered actors Griffin O’Neal and Tatum O’Neal, his co-star in the 1973 movie “Paper Moon,” for which she won an Oscar for best supporting actress. He had son Patrick with his second wife, Leigh Taylor-Young.

Ryan O’Neal had his own best actor Oscar nomination for the 1970 tear-jerker drama “Love Story,” co-starring Ali MacGraw, about a young couple who fall in love, marry and discover she is dying of cancer.

The movie includes the memorable, but often satirized line: “Love means never having to say

you’re sorry.”

O’Neal played bit parts and performed some stunt work before claiming a lead role on the prime-time soap opera “Peyton Place” (1964-69), which also made a star of Mia Farrow.

From there O’Neal jumped to the big screen with 1969’s “The Big Bounce,” which co-stared his then-wife, Taylor-Young. But it was “Love Story” that made him a movie star.

The romantic melodrama was the highest-grossing film of 1970, became one of Paramount Pictures’ biggest hits and collected seven Oscar nominations, including one for best picture. It won for best music.

After “Love Story” made him a major movie star, O’Neal was considered for seemingly every major leading role in Hollywood. Paramount even pushed

for him to to star as Michael Corleone in “The Godfather” before Al Pacino got the part at the insistence of director Francis Ford Coppola.

O’Neal then starred for Bogdanovich as a bumbling professor opposite Barbra Streisand in the 1972 screwball comedy “What’s Up, Doc?” “So sad to hear the news of Ryan O’Neal’s passing,” Streisand, who also starred with O’Neal in the 1979 boxing romcom “The Main Event,” posted on Instagram. “He was funny and charming, and he will be remembered.”

The year after “What’s Up, Doc?” Bogdanovich cast him in the Depression-era con artist comedy “Paper Moon.”

In it, O’Neal played an unscrupulous Bible salesman preying on widows he locat-

ed through obituary notices.

His real-life daughter, Tatum, played a trash-talking, cigarette-smoking orphan who needs his help — and eventually helps redeem him.

Father and daughter drifted apart as Tatum grew older, with the elder actor learning about his daughter’s marriage to tennis great John McEnroe by a belated telegram, Ryan O’Neal wrote in a 2012 book about his relationship with Fawcett.

“A door inside me locked the morning the telegram came, and I am still blindly searching for the key to open it,” O’Neal wrote in “Both of Us.” O’Neal’s career cooled further in the 1980s with the emerald heist drama “Green Ice” (1981) and the 1984 comedy “Irreconcilable Differences,” in which he played a busy father in an unhappy marriage whose daughter, played by 9-year-old Drew Barrymore, tries to divorce her parents.

The decade was also a lowpoint in O’Neal’s personal life.

His son Griffin faced numerous brushes with the law, including a 1986 boating accident that killed Gian-Carlo Coppola, 23, son of movie director Francis Ford Coppola in Maryland.

Griffin O’Neal was convicted of negligently and recklessly operating a boat, received a community service sentence and later served a brief stint in jail as a result.

With his Hollywood status diminishing, Ryan O’Neal began appearing in TV movies and eventually returned to series television opposite then-lover Fawcett with the 1991 sitcom “Good Sports,” but the show ran only one season.

Charles Patrick Ryan O’Neal was born on April 20, 1941, and was the son of screenwriter Charles O’Neal and actor Patricia Callaghan O’Neal. O’Neal spent time as a lifeguard and an amateur boxer before finding his calling as a performer.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Biden administration says New Hampshire computer chip plant the first to get funding from CHIPS law The Associated Press

puter chip supplies as a worldwide shortage curbed U.S. auto production and pushed up prices around the start of Biden’s presidency.

“Over the coming year, the Department of Commerce will award billions more to make

more semiconductors in America, invest in research and development capabilities to keep America at the forefront of new technologies,” Biden said in a statement.

Biden also said the incentives his administration is providing

have already led to more than $230 billion in planned investments in semiconductors and electronics.

The Democratic president has gone to a planned Intel factory in Ohio and a new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plant in Arizona, as well as touted investments by IBM while in New York. Biden has made these financial commitments part of his pitch to voters ahead of the 2024 elections, saying his policies have energized the U.S. economy.

Government officials said the investment in the BAE Systems’ facility will ultimately save money for taxpayers. The money being paid out as the company hits benchmarks will help quadruple the plant’s production capacity, helping to halve the price of making the chips and leading to net savings for the federal agencies buying the chips.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said NATO allies and partners in Asia also will benefit from the increased capacity. But he stressed that an expanded manufacturing base was essential to protect the U.S. “We do not want to be in a position where critical national security needs are dependent on faulty foreign supply chains,” Sullivan said. “We do not want to be in a position where another country can cut us off in a moment of crisis.”

The NRA has a surprising defender in its free speech case before the Supreme Court: the ACLU

lence political speech.”

The nation’s highest court is set to hear arguments early next year in a case centered on comments former New York State Department of Financial Services superintendent Maria Vullo made in the wake of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

After 17 people were killed at the Parkland, Florida, school, Vullo called on banks and insurance companies operating in New York to discontinue their association with gun-promoting groups.

In letters to companies and news releases, she urged operators to consider “reputational risks” from doing business with the NRA and other gun groups.

The NRA sued Vullo after multiple entities cut ties or decided not to do business with the Fairfax, Virginia-based organization. The federal appeals court in New York rejected the NRA’s claims, saying Vullo acted in good faith and within the bounds of her job.

Spokespersons for New York’s financial services department didn’t respond to an email seeking comment Saturday.

But the ACLU, in additional comments posted on X, argued that if the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene, it could create a “dangerous playbook” for regulatory agencies across the

country to blacklist or punish “viewpoint-based organizations” including abortion rights groups, environmental groups and even the ACLU itself.

“The questions at the core of this case are about the First Amendment and the principled defense of civil liberties for all, including those with whom we disagree on the Second Amendment,” the ACLU wrote. “We won’t let the rights of organizations to engage in political advocacy be trampled.”

The announcement, which comes as the NRA and the gunrights movement broadly has proven resilient amid the nation’s ceaseless mass shootings and gun violence, was criticized by at least one prominent ACLU affiliate.

The New York Civil Liberties Union, in a statement, said it “strongly disagrees” with the decision and would not participate in the case, even though it originated in New York.

“The important First Amendment issue in the case is well-established, the NRA is one of the most powerful organizations in the country and has sophisticated counsel, and representing the NRA directly risks enormous harm to the clients and communities the ACLU and NYCLU work with and serve,” Executive Director Donna Lieberman said in an emailed statement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden administration announced the first of many coming federal investments in computer chip production, saying Monday that it would provide $35 million for BAE Systems to increase production at a New Hampshire factory making chips for military aircraft, including F-15 and F-35 jets.

This would be the initial allocation of incentives from last year’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which provides more than $52 billion to boost the development and manufacturing of semiconductors in the United States.

The Commerce Department’s choice of a military contractor instead of a conventional chip manufacturer reveals the national security focus of the law, as more and more weapons systems depend on advanced chips that could be decisive in both preventing and fighting wars.

“We can’t gamble with our national security by depending solely on one part of the world or even one country for crucial advanced technologies,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who called the investments a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance our national and economic security and create a thriving, long-lasting domestic semiconductor manufacturing industry.”

President Joe Biden signed

PHOTO COURTESY BAE SYSTEMS

The new funding should help speed production of the F-35 aircraft. the incentives into law in August 2022 partly out of concerns that a military attack on Taiwan could deprive the world of advanced computer chips and plunge the U.S. into a recession.

The coronavirus pandemic revealed the fragility of com-

The Associated Press NEW YORK — In a case of politics making strange bedfellows, the National Rifle Association will be represented by frequent nemesis the American Civil Liberties Union in an appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The New York-based civil liberties group confirmed Saturday that it would provide legal representation for the gun-rights group in its First Amendment case against New York’s Department of Financial Services even as it “vigorously” opposes nearly everything it stands for.

“We don’t support the NRA’s mission or its viewpoints on gun rights, and we don’t agree with their goals, strategies, or tactics,” the ACLU in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “But we both know that government officials can’t punish organizations because they disapprove of their views.”

The NRA, which reshared the

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH SATE JOURNAL

The ACLU is backing the NRA in a free speech fight before the Supreme Court.

ACLU’s statement on its social media account, wrote in a follow-up post that it was “proud”

to stand with the ACLU and others who recognize that “regulatory authority cannot be used to si-

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THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

AP PHOTO

Rep. Kathy Manning, center, accepts applause as author of the Right to Contraception Act, as she is recognized by a number of other Democratic representatives including then-Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi during an event with Democratic women House members ahead of a vote on the act at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, July 20, 2022.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Winston-Salem woman pleads guilty to false statements in connection with CARES Act loan A Winston-Salem woman pled guilty to one count of making a false statement related to fraudulently obtaining a loan authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act, U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston announced on Thursday, Dec. 7.

According to court documents, Michelle Renee Hollis falsified a loan application and received over $134,000 she then used to purchase land in California and a 2017 Porsche Cayenne.

Sentencing is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. in Winston-Salem.

At sentencing, Hollis faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a period of supervised release of up to three years, and monetary penalties.

The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation is investigating the case, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Waid.

‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign fights holiday impaired driving North Carolina launched a “Booze It & Lose It” campaign this week to combat impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, it focuses on deterring drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and other impairing substances.

The campaign highlights the availability of various transportation options, including designated sober drivers and rideshare services to ensure safe travel.

Manning quits after GOP redraws 6th district Blames ‘egregiously gerrymandered maps’ for ‘uncompetitive’ race The Associated Press A SECOND-TERM Democratic congresswoman will not seek reelection to the U.S. House under the North Carolina General Assembly’s new redistricting maps.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Manning announced Thursday that she will not file under lines that state election data suggests could net Republicans at least

three more seats. Manning’s district is now considered a GOP-leaning district. It’s one of four challenged earlier this week by Black and Latino voters in a federal lawsuit alleging the new map weakens minority voting power to strengthen “the state’s white majority.”

“Unfortunately, the egregiously gerrymandered maps do not make this race competitive,” Manning said in a statement. “I cannot in good conscience ask people to invest their time, resources and efforts in a campaign that is rigged against us.”

If the lawsuit successfully overturns the latest iteration, Manning said she will run.

The candidate filing period ends Dec. 15 for a spot on the March 5 primary ballot.

Delanie Bomar, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, celebrated the Thursday announcement that she said gives House Republicans another seat in their slim majority. Manning won re-election by nearly 8% in 2022. But Bomar said in a statement that North Carolina’s new 6th Congressional

Forsyth board focuses on community and infrastructure improvements Addresses rezoning, grants, and contractual matters

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal WINSTON-SALEM – The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners met Thursday, Dec. 7.

The board first reelected Don Martin as chair and Gloria Whisenhunt as vice chair.

“I’ve known Commissioner Whisenhunt since she was on the school board and I actually met her before I came here as superintendent of the schools in 1994,” Martin said. “So we’re getting ready to come up on 30 years of actually working together in an official capacity. It’s been a great opportunity to do that and it was a great honor serving with her this year.”

The board then held two public hearings, with the first being a petition to close a portion of Morris Street.

The second hearing was a rezoning request to rezone 3.4 acres of property located on the north side of Ogden School Road and west of Davis Ridge Drive from RS9-S to AG. “The subject property’s surrounding context is predominantly rural with some suburban characteristics,” said Deputy Director of Planning and Development Kirk Ericson. “The request is generally consistent with the legacy plan and the Southeast Forsyth County Area Plan Update and the proposed district is compatible with adjacent zoning and the request constitutes a downzoning of the property.”

Following the hearings, both requests were approved.

The board then approved four grant items, those be-

ing a $35,000 appropriation from the National Association of County and City Health Officials to support overdose prevention strategies and a $9,500 appropriation from the Winston-Salem Foundation for improvements to the Arboretum at Tanglewood Park.

The board also approved the application for a $75,125 grant from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for the implementation of evidence-based programs to prevent adolescent pregnancies and for up to a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service for the renovation of the administration building at the historic Memorial Industrial School campus.

The board also approved two budgetary amendments, with those being a revert and reallocation of $93,472 in the

District would have swung for Republican Donald Trump by 16% in the 2020 presidential election.

Manning represents the north-central part of the state that covers Guilford, Rockingham and Caswell counties and part of Forsyth County. The new lines split voters from the city of Greensboro across the surrounding districts.

North Carolina voters sent seven Democrats and seven Republicans to the nation’s capital under the previous boundaries. But the Republican majority on North Carolina’s highest court tossed a 2022 ruling against partisan gerrymandering. That decision paved the way for the new Republican majorities in the North Carolina General Assembly to pass maps along party lines that are poised to fortify the GOP’s growing grip on the ninth-largest U.S. state.

2023-24 Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Funding Plan and the appropriation of various project savings and interest towards cell lock upgrades for the detention center and the Tanglewood Clubhouse project.

“Essentially, these are changes to the structured capital improvement funds with the goal to identify project savings, interest and then to align the allowable uses across all these projects,” said County Manager Dudley Watts, Jr. “It’s a fairly big process around making sure all those projects maximize the opportunity to the community.”

The board then approved various contractual matters including a resolution awardSee COMMISSIONERS, page 2

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COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

For true evil, look to communism Twin City Herald Neal Robbins, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Ryan Henkel, Reporter Jesse Deal, Reporter P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 nsjonline.com

Vladimir Lenin was a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years.

Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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COMMISSIONERS from page 1 ing a $1,904,908.11 contract to Cornerstone Detention Products for maximum security detention locks, a property lease agreement with the Town of Kernersville to operate a recycling center, a $593,292 increase in opioid settlement expenditures, an agreement for an amount not to exceed $115,000 with Medix Staffing Solutions to provide temporary physician assistants and nurse practitioners to Forsyth County Department of Public Health, a contract renewal in the amount not to exceed $51,069.22 with Online Computer Library Center to provide cataloging and metadata subscriptions, an $85,000 contract with NearMap US for biannual vertical and annual oblique imagery, a $70,185.36 purchase of computing endpoints, a $114,575 renewal of multi-factor authentication security subscription services, and an interlocal agreement with the City of Winston-Salem for the shared use of the NC Governor’s Highway Safety Program Traffic Safety Project Grant award for the continuation of the Forsyth County DWI Joint Task Force.

In addition, the board voted to continue a decision on the execution of an amendment to the contract with Samet Corporation of the GMA for the Tanglewood Clubhouse Project in order to see about ways of reducing the cost to later in the month.

“Two weeks is not going to hurt anything as far as to see if the board wishes to consider anything else,” said Commissioner Richard Linville. “If it does not, then the board can do what it will.”

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Dec. 21.

FOR THOSE DISMAYED at how many college and university students and faculty, even, or especially, at selective and prestigious institutions, have been cheering Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocities and calling, in only slightly veiled language, for the destruction of Israel and genocide of Jews, the question is how this vicious line of thought gained hold in American secondary and higher education.

The answer seems to be that students have been infected, in high schools and colleges, with a virus that enables them to see history only as a struggle between oppressors and the oppressed, between vicious exploiters and virtuous victims.

This obviously owes something to Marxism, which teaches that an oppressed and exploited proletariat will inherit all power — or at least be the beneficiary of the intellectuals who grab it. But that version has had to be revised because contemporary working classes refused to play their assigned roles and mouth the lines that leftist intellectuals dictated to them.

Instead, the script has been adapted to attack other targets, with the vicious oppressors depicted as settlers coming into a new land and the virtuous oppressed depicted as previous residents and indigent peoples. This has the advantage of defining, if you twist the history a few times, the United States and Israel as villain regimes rather than as the historic leaders they have been and are in advancing religious tolerance, freedom of expression, rule of law, and electoral democracy.

One way to put this into perspective is to visit one of Washington, D.C.’s newest and least known museums, the Victims of Communism Museum, on McPherson Square, a few blocks from the White House. There you will get an idea of what true oppression is like — and how it has slaughtered 100 million people and blighted the lives of hundreds of millions of others.

It’s not a story in which American secondary schools or higher education seem much interested these days. For it tells how small gaggles of would-be intellectuals and violent gang leaders — frequently, as in the case of Joseph Stalin, the same person — gained dictatorial control of enormous nations while posing as champions of the supposedly virtuous, downtrodden masses.

From a combination of visual images and texts, you can learn how Vladimir Lenin was not the mild reformer that some apologists claim but instead a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years. You can read excerpts from Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s “Gulag Archipelago” and view

paintings by Gulag survivors.

There’s a separate section devoted to the Chinese Communist Party, which next year will have been in power for 75 years — one year longer than the run of the Soviet Union. Young people who think it’s cool to wear Mao T-shirts might pay special attention to the exhibits on the 1959-61 Great Leap Forward, which was actually a great leap to starvation for 30 million people.

And Mao’s Cultural Revolution, with its purges of wrong thinkers and executions and rural exiles of professionals, enforced by youthful Red Guards, will have a certain familiar ring for those familiar with contemporary American campuses.

Of particular interest to me were the exhibits on the Baltic States’s self-liberation from the Soviet Union. I was in Estonia, reporting for U.S. News and World Report, in October 1989, just two months after the human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania marked the 50th anniversary of the HitlerStalin pact. I remember the European traffic signallike signs, with a red diagonal line within a red circle and the numbers 23.08.39 and the names Molotov and Ribbentrop — the foreign ministers who signed the alliance of the two totalitarian tyrants on Aug. 23, 1939.

That enabled Adolf Hitler and Stalin to start dividing up Poland and the Baltics nine days later.

The U.S., thankfully, never recognized the Soviet absorption of the Baltics, and today, they and Poland are part of NATO and providing vital aid to Ukraine.

Victims of Communism Museum President Andrew Bremberg tells me that when he asks students how many have heard of Stalin, about 1 out of 10 hands goes up. And when he asks students or adults who has heard of the Hitler-Stalin pact, no one raises a hand.

That’s unfortunate because this alliance of totalitarians, which with its allies controlled almost all of Europe and half of the land mass of Asia by spring 1941, was what inspired George Orwell’s dystopia in “1984.” Had Hitler not attacked Stalin in June 1941, could beleaguered Britain and technically neutral America have ended their totalitarian tyranny?

Young people and their elders who cheer the gleeful torture and murders of Oct. 7 do not understand what true evil is like. They could get a better idea at the Victims of Communism Museum.

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

Krawiec won’t seek reelection to the North Carolina General Assembly The Associated Press KERNERSVILLE — North Carolina state Sen. Joyce Krawiec, who has successfully pushed to overhaul Medicaid, streamline health care access and further modernize abortion laws while in the General Assembly, announced at the beginning of the 2024 filing period that she won’t seek reelection next year.

She quickly endorsed Dana Caudill Jones, a recent Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education member as her successor in the 31st Senate District, which covers all of Stokes County and part of Forsyth.

Krawiec, who also had a significant role in passing a 2018 law that implemented a voter ID mandate, said she will serve out the remainder of her term through the end of 2024.

Krawiec “is a conservative stalwart and has been a guiding force in the Senate,” Senate leader Phil Berger was quoted as saying in Krawiec’s news release. “Her influence can be felt throughout our caucus as a skilled legislator, trusted mentor, and well-respected colleague.”

Once the vice chairwom-

AP PHOTO

North Carolina state Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, speaks on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at a Legislative Building news conference in Raleigh. an of the state Republican Party, Krawiec served briefly in the House in 2012, then joined in the Senate in 2014 to fill the seat previously held by Sen. Pete Brunstetter. She currently helps lead Senate health care and pensions committees.

Krawiec was involved in leg-

islation that moved Medicaid from a fee-for-service system to a managed-care system where statewide and regional health plans received monthly payments for each patient they enrolled and treated.

Over the years, she also fought for additional abortion

restrictions and for easing state regulations on health care entities that wish to construct building or purchase new equipment. Those certificate of need rules were incorporated into this year’s law expanding Medicaid coverage to hundreds of thousands of low-income adults.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

SIDELINE REPORT

3

SPORTS

SPONSORED BY

NBA

Voters consider sales tax for new $1B Thunder arena Oklahoma City Oklahoma City voters will decide whether to approve a 1% sales tax to fund a new downtown arena for the NBA’s Thunder. The vote on the six-year tax is set for Tuesday. Under a proposed agreement with the team’s owners, the team would stay in the city through at least 2050 if it’s approved. Local leaders say the new arena will continue Oklahoma City’s momentum as a top-tier city. But many city residents are concerned the team’s owners, who are some of the wealthiest Oklahomans, are contributing only 5% of the cost of the new arena.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Bronny James makes college debut for USC Los Angeles Bronny James had four points, three rebounds and two assists in his college debut for Southern California nearly five months after he suffered cardiac arrest. Playing in front of his father, LeBron James, the 19-yearold freshman logged 16 minutes in the Trojans’ 84-79 overtime loss to Long Beach State. James shot 1 of 3, making a 3-pointer in the second half. Later, he made a huge block that drew cheers. The younger James suffered cardiac arrest on July 20 during a workout on campus. He was found to have a congenital heart defect that was treatable.

WNBA

Fever win WNBA Draft lottery top pick again Uncasville, Conn.

The Indiana Fever won the WNBA Draft lottery Sunday and will pick No. 1 for the second straight year. The Fever, who took Aliyah Boston last season with the top pick, will now have to wait and see which players decide to enter the draft. Generational talents Caitlin Clark of Iowa, UConn’s Paige Bueckers and LSU’s Angel Reese all have the option to return to school for another season due to the extra year they were granted for the coronavirus. Los Angeles has the No. 2 pick with Phoenix choosing third and Seattle fourth.

NFL

Chargers QB Herbert fractures right index finger Inglewood, Calif.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert fractured the index finger on his right hand in the second quarter of Los Angeles’ 24-7 loss to the Broncos on Sunday, jeopardizing his streak of 62 consecutive regular season starts on a short week for his struggling team. Coach Brandon Staley said the Chargers’ medical staff will do more tests before determining whether Herbert will miss their next game Thursday at Las Vegas.

The Chargers (5-8) have only three days to prepare for the Raiders. If Herbert can’t play, backup Easton Stick seems likely to become only the Chargers’ fourth starting quarterback since 2007.

Ohtani agrees to record $700M, 10-year deal with Dodgers The two-way superstar twice won AL MVP with the Angels

lieved to be set by soccer stars Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé.

There was no immediate comment by the Dodgers. Ohtani has not spoken The Associated Press with reporters since Aug. 9.

“I apologize for taking so long to NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani has set a financial record to go along with come to a decision,” Ohtani said in an his singular on-field performance, get- English-language statement on Instating $700 million to make a 30-mile gram. “I would like to express my sinmove up Interstate 5 to the Los Ange- cere gratitude to everyone involved with the Angels organization and the les Dodgers.

His agent, Nez Balelo, issued a mi- fans who have supported me over the dafternoon news release Saturday an- past six years, as well as to everyone involved with each team that nouncing the 10-year conwas part of this negotiation tract, ending months of process. speculation that began “And to all Dodgers fans, even before Ohtani became I pledge to always do what’s a free agent on Nov. 2. In best for the team and alrecent days, media and fans ways continue to give it my had tracked private plane all to be the best version of movements and alleged Annual salary for myself,” he continued. “Unsightings like detectives in til the last day of my playing attempts to discern the inShohei Ohtani career, I want to continue to tentions of the two-time AL in his new deal strive forward not only for MVP with the Angels. with the Dodgers, the Dodgers but for the base“This is a unique, hisball world.” toric contract for a unique, more than the Ohtani joins a lineup that historic player,” Balelo said. entire payrolls also includes 2018 AL MVP “He is excited to begin this of Baltimore and Mookie Betts and 2020 NL partnership, and he strucMVP Freddie Freeman. The tured his contract to reflect Oakland last Dodgers won the NL West a true commitment from season. this year for the 10th time in both sides to long-term suc11 seasons before they were cess.” swept by Arizona in the DiOhtani’s total was 64% higher than baseball’s previous record, vision Series in October.

Los Angeles begins the 2024 season a $426.5 million, 12-year deal for Angels outfielder Mike Trout that began in in Seoul, South Korea, against San Diego on March 20-21.

2019.

Ohtani’s decision came six years and His $70 million average salary is 62% above the previous high of $43,333,333, one day after he first agreed to his deal shared by pitchers Max Scherzer and with Angels.

Ohtani has redefined modern baseJustin Verlander with deals they struck with the New York Mets. Ohtani’s av- ball since he chose the Angels as his first erage salary nearly doubles the rough- major league team. Nobody has come ly $42.3 million he earned with the An- close to matching his achievements at gels. It also exceeds the entire payrolls the plate and on the mound, becoming one of the majors’ elite players in both of Baltimore and Oakland this year.

His agreement includes unprece- roles when healthy. Along the way, he dented deferred money that will lower has become one of the most marketthe amount it counts toward the Dodg- able athletes in the world, a force when ers’ luxury tax payroll, a person familiar it comes to ticket sales, TV ratings and with the agreement told The Associated sponsorship revenue.

He was a unanimous AL MVP in Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the details were not 2021 and 2023 — he finished second in 2022 — winning this year despite inannounced.

This is perhaps the largest contract juring his elbow in late August and an in sports history, topping highs be- oblique muscle in early September.

the better part of th ing to earn acceptan stitutions,” Ural said don’t know what we’r now.”

The outbreak has for millions of stud taking virtual tou while also dealing about tuition payme

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Trista Charles

$70M

CREDIT TRISTA CHARLES’ X ACCOUNT

Oak Grove

girls’ basketball Trista Charles is a junior guard for the Oak Grove girls’ basketball team.

The Grizzlies bounced back from their first loss of the year to win two straight and move to 6-1 on the year.

Charles has been an offensive spark for Oak Grove. In a loss to Northern Guilford, she hit all three of her 3-point attempts and scored 15 points to go with 6 rebounds.

It snapped a four-game streak of scoring at least 20 points for Charles.

The next night, she had 18 points and 4 steals as the Grizzlies shut down Thomasville, 59-6. She finished her week with 22 points and 6 boards in a 79-16 win over Trinity.

LSU quarterback Daniels wins Heisman Trophy Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was runner-up The Associated Press NEW YORK — Jayden Daniels, LSU’s dazzling dual-threat quarterback, won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night, becoming the first player since 2016 to win college football’s most prestigious player of the year award as part of a team that did not play for a conference championship.

The fifth-year player, who transferred from Arizona State to LSU in 2022, received 503 first-place votes and 2,029 points after accounting for 50 touchdowns and nearly 5,000 total yards in just 12 regular-season games.

“This is a dream come true,” Daniels started his acceptance speech.

Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was the runner-up with 292 first-place votes and 1,701 points and Oregon’s Bo Nix was third (51, 885), putting transfer quarterbacks in each of the top three spots. Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. finished fourth (20, 352).

Wearing a sharp light gray suit, Daniels dropped his head for a moment when his name was called. He was the favorite to win the award but said he felt relieved when it was official.

Still, he stayed composed throughout his speech when he thanked everyone from his offensive line to the groundskeep-

AP PHOTO

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels kisses the Heisman Trophy after winning the award Saturday in New York. ers at Tigers Stadium and cafeteria workers who help feed the team.

“I wasn’t really like, emotional, like crying,” Daniels said later at a news conference. “I guess it’s

kind of how I play on the field.

I’m just enjoying the moment, just embracing everything, giving thanks to God.” Daniels, who turns 23 on Dec. 18, won AP Player of the

Year earlier in the week.

Daniels is the fifth quarterback in the last seven seasons to win the Heisman after transferring, joining former LSU star Joe Burrow in 2019 and USC’s Caleb Williams last year.

“I want to thank all my teammates, from Arizona State to LSU,” Daniels said. “You’re my brothers. You work so hard every day, inspiring me to be my best.”

He is also LSU’s third Heisman winner overall, along with running back Billy Cannon in 1959.

Burrow led LSU to a national championship and Cannon’s team came close, finishing No. 3 in the country.

Daniels’ Tigers (9-3) slipped out of that race with two losses in the first six weeks, but he certainly wasn’t to blame.

“I really wish I could have brought you back another championship,” Daniels said as he thanked the LSU fans.

Week after week he fueled the best offense in the country with his passing (3,812 yards) and running (1,134). He leads the nation in total offense at 412 yards per game and is averaging an astounding 10.71 yards per play.

No. 13 LSU is set to face Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Jan. 1, though Daniels has not yet decided if he will play the final game of his college career.

The next stop for the 6-foot-4, 210-pounder could be the NFL Draft combine, with his stock on the rise but no guarantee to be a first-round pick.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

4

STATE & NATION

Biden administration says New Hampshire computer chip plant the first to get funding from CHIPS law The Associated Press

puter chip supplies as a worldwide shortage curbed U.S. auto production and pushed up prices around the start of Biden’s presidency.

“Over the coming year, the Department of Commerce will award billions more to make

more semiconductors in America, invest in research and development capabilities to keep America at the forefront of new technologies,” Biden said in a statement.

Biden also said the incentives his administration is providing

have already led to more than $230 billion in planned investments in semiconductors and electronics.

The Democratic president has gone to a planned Intel factory in Ohio and a new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plant in Arizona, as well as touted investments by IBM while in New York. Biden has made these financial commitments part of his pitch to voters ahead of the 2024 elections, saying his policies have energized the U.S. economy.

Government officials said the investment in the BAE Systems’ facility will ultimately save money for taxpayers. The money being paid out as the company hits benchmarks will help quadruple the plant’s production capacity, helping to halve the price of making the chips and leading to net savings for the federal agencies buying the chips.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said NATO allies and partners in Asia also will benefit from the increased capacity. But he stressed that an expanded manufacturing base was essential to protect the U.S. “We do not want to be in a position where critical national security needs are dependent on faulty foreign supply chains,” Sullivan said. “We do not want to be in a position where another country can cut us off in a moment of crisis.”

The NRA has a surprising defender in its free speech case before the Supreme Court: the ACLU

lence political speech.”

The nation’s highest court is set to hear arguments early next year in a case centered on comments former New York State Department of Financial Services superintendent Maria Vullo made in the wake of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

After 17 people were killed at the Parkland, Florida, school, Vullo called on banks and insurance companies operating in New York to discontinue their association with gun-promoting groups.

In letters to companies and news releases, she urged operators to consider “reputational risks” from doing business with the NRA and other gun groups.

The NRA sued Vullo after multiple entities cut ties or decided not to do business with the Fairfax, Virginia-based organization. The federal appeals court in New York rejected the NRA’s claims, saying Vullo acted in good faith and within the bounds of her job.

Spokespersons for New York’s financial services department didn’t respond to an email seeking comment Saturday.

But the ACLU, in additional comments posted on X, argued that if the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene, it could create a “dangerous playbook” for regulatory agencies across the

country to blacklist or punish “viewpoint-based organizations” including abortion rights groups, environmental groups and even the ACLU itself.

“The questions at the core of this case are about the First Amendment and the principled defense of civil liberties for all, including those with whom we disagree on the Second Amendment,” the ACLU wrote. “We won’t let the rights of organizations to engage in political advocacy be trampled.”

The announcement, which comes as the NRA and the gunrights movement broadly has proven resilient amid the nation’s ceaseless mass shootings and gun violence, was criticized by at least one prominent ACLU affiliate.

The New York Civil Liberties Union, in a statement, said it “strongly disagrees” with the decision and would not participate in the case, even though it originated in New York.

“The important First Amendment issue in the case is well-established, the NRA is one of the most powerful organizations in the country and has sophisticated counsel, and representing the NRA directly risks enormous harm to the clients and communities the ACLU and NYCLU work with and serve,” Executive Director Donna Lieberman said in an emailed statement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden administration announced the first of many coming federal investments in computer chip production, saying Monday that it would provide $35 million for BAE Systems to increase production at a New Hampshire factory making chips for military aircraft, including F-15 and F-35 jets.

This would be the initial allocation of incentives from last year’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which provides more than $52 billion to boost the development and manufacturing of semiconductors in the United States.

The Commerce Department’s choice of a military contractor instead of a conventional chip manufacturer reveals the national security focus of the law, as more and more weapons systems depend on advanced chips that could be decisive in both preventing and fighting wars.

“We can’t gamble with our national security by depending solely on one part of the world or even one country for crucial advanced technologies,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who called the investments a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to advance our national and economic security and create a thriving, long-lasting domestic semiconductor manufacturing industry.”

President Joe Biden signed

PHOTO COURTESY BAE SYSTEMS

The new funding should help speed production of the F-35 aircraft. the incentives into law in August 2022 partly out of concerns that a military attack on Taiwan could deprive the world of advanced computer chips and plunge the U.S. into a recession.

The coronavirus pandemic revealed the fragility of com-

The Associated Press NEW YORK — In a case of politics making strange bedfellows, the National Rifle Association will be represented by frequent nemesis the American Civil Liberties Union in an appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The New York-based civil liberties group confirmed Saturday that it would provide legal representation for the gun-rights group in its First Amendment case against New York’s Department of Financial Services even as it “vigorously” opposes nearly everything it stands for.

“We don’t support the NRA’s mission or its viewpoints on gun rights, and we don’t agree with their goals, strategies, or tactics,” the ACLU in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “But we both know that government officials can’t punish organizations because they disapprove of their views.”

The NRA, which reshared the

JORDAN GOLSON | NORTH SATE JOURNAL

The ACLU is backing the NRA in a free speech fight before the Supreme Court.

ACLU’s statement on its social media account, wrote in a follow-up post that it was “proud”

to stand with the ACLU and others who recognize that “regulatory authority cannot be used to si-

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 42 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

‘Twas the night before

Downtown Pinehurst was bustling with holiday spirit for the village’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 1 at Tufts Memorial Park.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaign fights holiday impaired driving North Carolina launched a “Booze It & Lose It” campaign this week to combat impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, it focuses on deterring drivers from operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and other impairing substances.

Mark Ezzell, director of the GHSP, expressed concern about the heightened risk of impaired driving during the holidays, noting that over 25 percent of North Carolina’s crash fatalities in 2022 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. The N.C. Department of Transportation reported 471 alcohol-related crash fatalities last year.

USDA introduces online farm loan applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched an innovative online application system for its Direct Loan program.

This initiative is expected to benefit over 26,000 annual applicants, offering a paperless, interactive, and guided process, complete with electronic signature and document upload capabilities.

The tool is part of the USDA’s Farm Service Agency efforts to enhance customer service and increase credit accessibility.

The online tool replicates in-person assistance and offers one-on-one support.

It features a personalized dashboard for tracking loan applications and requires a USDA customer account and USDA Level 2 eAuthentication or a Login.gov account for access. Initially available for individual operators, the tool will extend to joint and entity applicants in 2024.

Moore courts tackle backlog with ‘DWI Week’ Special session part of statewide effort to address judicial delays

By Jordan Golson North State Journal CARTHAGE — Local courts face significant backlogs in pending cases, so district attorneys are getting creative.

For the third year in a row, Moore County District Attorney Mike Hardin worked with the District Court to tackle 73 DWI cases that had been pending for more than a year. The special weeklong court session, running from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1, 2023, saw two courtrooms running full-tilt to bring 38 cases to a conclusion, with DA Hardin’s team racking

up an 89 percent conviction rate.

The session, focusing on cases from November 2022 and earlier, was part of a broader effort across North Carolina to reduce judicial delays, a situation that had worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional prosecutors from the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys were brought in to help manage the cases.

This initiative is an example of the efforts made by judicial districts across the state to address the enormous backlog that peaked at 1.2 million cases during the pandemic. As of August 2023, this number has been reduced to 900,000, marking a 25% reduction statewide.

Of the 38 cases brought for bench trials in front of district

“DWIs take a while to try.

District Court is only three days a week, and there are traffic offenses, speeding tickets, and those sorts of things.”

District Attorney Mike Hardin court judges, two were dismissed outright — one after a defense motion to suppress was granted and the other because the defendant had a .04 blood alcohol content, below the legal limit in North Carolina. In two other cases, the judge found the defendant

School board focuses on strategic planning and community engagement Moore School Board addresses meeting locations, book review process, and board accomplishments

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CARTHAGE – The Moore County Schools Board of Education met Monday, Dec. 4.

To start the meeting, Robert Levy was reelected as board chair and Shannon Davis was reelected as vice chair.

“I want to thank the board for having faith in me for another year,” Levy said. “When you look at these accomplishments of the past couple of years, these are really fantastic. I believe we have the premier school system in the state of North Carolina.”

Noting the new strategic plan the board developed over the past three years, he continued: “When we look at Moore County Schools, we don’t just do things haphazardly. We have an actual strategic plan to say, how are we actually going to do things, what are our goals, what are the things that we need to do,” Levy said. “We set up measurable student performance goals. The plan was in great part written by some of our board members here so that we know exactly what we want to do academically.”

Some of the other board accomplishments that Levy highlighted were the elimination of F-rated schools, the county’s only A-rated school, the raising of reading standards, the implementation of a data-driven approach to education, the expansion of SRO officers in schools, the improved quality of student meals and the

development of a forward-facing curriculum.

The board then approved revisions to its proposed meeting calendar.

The changes included adjusting the April 2024 meeting dates in order to accommodate the revised budget calendar, the extension of the calendar through July 2025 and that the Central Office boardroom in Carthage be the standardized meeting site for all future meetings.

“The recommendation is that the board go back to utilizing this meeting room as your standard meeting site for future meetings of the board,” superintendent Tim Locklair said. “This would lessen the impact on staff in coming back to our designed meeting space, lessen the impact on the host school and its instructional spaces that are taken out of use for at least a couple of days

not guilty. One case was a felony charge because of prior DWI convictions and was elevated to Superior Court for trial.

In an interview with North State Journal, Hardin explained the scheduling challenges in a county like Moore.

“DWIs take a while to try. District Court is only three days a week, and there are traffic offenses, speeding tickets, and those sorts of things,” Hardin said.

“Three days a week and not even every week. At an hour or two per case, we can’t dispose of them if we take every case to trial.”

Old cases are a challenge for law enforcement, too. A North Carolina State Trooper who transferred to the western part of the state months ago was able to finish his last few cases last week — all helpfully scheduled on the same day.

“It’s one of the more serious things that happens at District Court,” Hardin said. “People get a lawyer, and then the lawyer does all the things that a lawyer wants to do,” which results in a necesSee DWI, page 2

and it would ensure a higher quality livestream and video record of the meeting.

“The board would always retain the ability to utilize an alternative meeting location based on a unique need like highlighting a facility update or having a high-interest topic in an area. In addition, there are other ways the board can meet in schools or with the community. ” Previously, the board had expanded their pool of meeting locations to various schools around the district in order to accommodate parents and guardians in those areas. However, the board plans to implement alternative methods for access to those areas.

See SCHOOLS, page 2

$2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

12.13.23

“Join the conversation”

Neal Robbins, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor A.P. Dillon, Reporter Ryan Henkel, Reporter Jesse Deal, Reporter P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

For true evil, look to communism FOR THOSE DISMAYED at how many college and university students and faculty, even, or especially, at selective and prestigious institutions, have been cheering Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocities and calling, in only slightly veiled language, for the destruction of Israel and genocide of Jews, the question is how this vicious line of thought gained hold in American secondary and higher education.

The answer seems to be that students have been infected, in high schools and colleges, with a virus that enables them to see history only as a struggle between oppressors and the oppressed, between vicious exploiters and virtuous victims.

This obviously owes something to Marxism, which teaches that an oppressed and exploited proletariat will inherit all power — or at least be the beneficiary of the intellectuals who grab it.

But that version has had to be revised because contemporary working classes refused to play their assigned roles and mouth the lines that leftist intellectuals dictated to them.

Instead, the script has been adapted to attack other targets, with the vicious oppressors depicted as settlers coming into a new land and the virtuous oppressed depicted as previous residents and indigent peoples. This has the advantage of defining, if you twist the history a few times, the United States and Israel as villain regimes rather than as the historic leaders they have been and are in advancing religious tolerance, freedom of expression, rule of law, and electoral democracy.

One way to put this into perspective is to visit one of Washington, D.C.’s newest and least known museums, the Victims of Communism Museum, on McPherson Square, a few blocks from the White House. There you will get an idea of what true oppression is like — and how it has slaughtered 100 million people and blighted the lives of hundreds of millions of others.

It’s not a story in which American secondary schools or higher education seem much interested these days. For it tells how small gaggles of would-be intellectuals and violent gang leaders — frequently, as in the case of Joseph Stalin, the same person — gained dictatorial control of enormous nations while posing as champions of the supposedly virtuous, downtrodden masses.

From a combination of visual images and texts, you can learn how Vladimir Lenin was not the mild reformer that some apologists claim but instead a ruthless killer who set up the apparatus of mass murder that his successor Stalin utilized for nearly 30 years. You can read excerpts from Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s “Gulag Archipelago” and view paintings by Gulag survivors.

There’s a separate section devoted to the Chinese Communist Party, which next year will have been in power for 75 years — one year longer than the run of the Soviet Union. Young people who think it’s cool to wear Mao T-shirts might pay special attention to the exhibits on the 1959-61 Great Leap Forward, which was actually a great leap to starvation for 30 million people.

And Mao’s Cultural Revolution, with its purges of wrong thinkers and executions and rural exiles of professionals, enforced by youthful Red Guards, will have a certain familiar ring for those familiar with contemporary American campuses.

Of particular interest to me were the exhibits on the Baltic States’s self-liberation from the Soviet Union. I was in Estonia, reporting for U.S. News and World Report, in October 1989, just two months after the human chain across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania marked the 50th anniversary of the Hitler-Stalin pact. I remember the European traffic signal-like signs, with a red diagonal line within a red circle and the numbers 23.08.39 and the names Molotov and Ribbentrop — the foreign ministers who signed the alliance of the two totalitarian tyrants on Aug. 23, 1939.

That enabled Adolf Hitler and Stalin to start dividing up Poland and the Baltics nine days later.

The U.S., thankfully, never recognized the Soviet absorption of the Baltics, and today, they and Poland are part of NATO and providing vital aid to Ukraine.

Victims of Communism Museum President Andrew Bremberg tells me that when he asks students how many have heard of Stalin, about 1 out of 10 hands goes up. And when he asks students or adults who has heard of the HitlerStalin pact, no one raises a hand.

That’s unfortunate because this alliance of totalitarians, which with its allies controlled almost all of Europe and half of the land mass of Asia by spring 1941, was what inspired George Orwell’s dystopia in “1984.” Had Hitler not attacked Stalin in June 1941, could beleaguered Britain and technically neutral America have ended their totalitarian tyranny?

Young people and their elders who cheer the gleeful torture and murders of Oct. 7 do not understand what true evil is like. They could get a better idea at the Victims of Communism Museum.

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

moore

happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

Dec. 16 Carolina CinemasSandhills 10: Elf Pajama Party Toy Drive 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

See ELF on the big screen at Carolina Cinemas-Sandhills 10 and help those in need. Bring in a toy for donation to Toys for Tots and receive a ticket to the movie on Saturday.

Additional breakfast and mimosa offerings will be available at concessions.

Festive Pajamas are encouraged.

Town Of Vass: Christmas Parade | 11 a.m.

Line up at 10 a.m. at Vass Elementary and the parade will start at 11 a.m.

Pop Up Community Christmas Market | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Browse and shop crafts, food, baked goods and from local vendors at the new event venue Magnolia Cottage of Bell Ridge Farm on Joel Rd. in Carthage. Christmas wrapping on hand as well. Admission and parking are free.

Paws For the Cause Fundraiser CRIME LOG December 8 x Beth Anne Downer and Matthew Dale Knight were both arrested by the Southern Pines Police Department and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of firearm by felon, possession of a schedule IIIcontrolled substance, carrying concealed weapon, possession of drug paraphernalia (other than marijuana), and possess marijuana paraphernalia. x Nathaniel Shawn Cribb of Laurinburg was arrested by the Moore County Sheriff’s Office and charged with assault inflict serious injury and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. He received a $10,000.00 secured bond.

SCHOOLS from page 1 “It’s been suggested that we also have a meet-and-greet on a voluntary basis for our board to go out and not hold meetings at the various schools but to go out and go to their auditorium or multi-purpose room and be able to have the public ask us questions to which we can respond,” Levy said. “In our public sessions here at the meeting, we’re encouraged not to respond because it’s in the middle of a business meeting, but in such a setting we could respond.”

“It’s very important for us to get out to the community and talk to them and to hear their concerns,” said board member Pauline Bruno. “That’s the most important thing. We don’t have a back and forth here at a meeting.

But in an event such as [Levy] suggested, we could have a back and forth and really find out how people are thinking.”

Levy also provided an update on the status of the disputed books that were being reviewed by a district media and technology advisory committee.

Levy stated that a decision on

the books would be postponed till January.

“Our board members wanted to be able to read those books thoroughly before we decided to pass judgment,” Levy said.

“Some of us have read them and some of us have not, but we wanted to give each board member additional time to fully read the books so if we were to pass judgment on them one way or the other, we would at least be fully informed.”

The Moore County Schools Board of Education will next meet Jan. 8.

TUNE INTO

December 9 x Matthew Dale Knight of Rockingham, NC, was arrested by the Southern Pines Police Department for possession of firearm by a felon, carrying concealed weapon, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

He received a $15,000 secure bond. He was also charged with a parole violation for which he is being held without bond.

The John and Maureen show

Sundays

x Jeffery Gray Davidson of Robbins was arrested by the Moore County Sheriff’s Office and charged with assault on a female, injury to personal property, communicating threats, false imprisonment, assault on a female, injury to personal property, resisting public officer, and directional signals equip violation. He received a $12,500 secure bond.

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December 10 x John Gerard Manzo was arrested by the Southern Pines Police Department and charged with indecent exposure. x Duane Malcolm Jackson was arrested by the Southern Pines Police Department and charged with possession of a schedule VIcontrolled substance, driving while license revoked, and a window tinting violation.

December 11 x Amber Lanae Latham from Seagrove was arrested by the Moore County Sheriff’s Office and charged with possession of methamphetamine, simple possession schedule II-controlled substance, simple possession schedule IV-controlled substance, simple possession of a schedule VI controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. She is being held on a $50,000 bond.

DWI from page 1

sarily longer proceeding than something simple like a speeding ticket.

“I would like to thank the Moore County Clerk’s Office, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Moore County Sheriff’s Office Bailiff Staff, and the many different law enforcement agencies that worked with my office to make this week a success,” said Hardin in a press release.

“I would also like to thank the Conference of District Attorneys for providing their assistance and providing staff to assist my office.”

New Hanover County implemented a similar strategy to tackle its backlog of DWI cases. District Attorney Ben David set up a backlog court that fo-

cused on over 70 cases awaiting trial for more than a year. This approach, necessitated by the complexities of poly-impairment cases involving substances other than alcohol, required specialized testing and expert witness coordination.

The success in Moore County, New Hanover, and others is reflective of a statewide initiative to combat the scheduling challenges faced during the pandemic. The AOC has highlighted numerous strategies employed across the state, such as holding court off-site, employing advanced technology, and streamlining case management processes.

Chief District Court Judge Scott Ussery moved some special sessions outside the courthouse to tackle the backlogs in

Bladen, Brunswick, and Columbus counties. “We got approval to go off-site, and we went five miles down the road and found a gymnasium, cafeteria, and media center, and for 11 months, we held court,” said Judge Ussery on an Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) podcast. “We did everything we could as the stakeholders in our community to make sure the system didn’t stop.”

Hardin said remaining untried cases, delayed for a variety of reasons such as unavailable defendants, defense attorneys, or law enforcement, should be resolved over the next few months.

A first misdemeanor DWI conviction typically results in probation, community service, and a fine.

12 – 2 p.m.

Hatchet Brewing Company (490 SW Pow Broad Street) in rankin Southern Pines presents county the annual Paws for a Cause fundraising event.

North Raffle tickets will be sold for some great prize Union baskets from some of our local pet-friendly Pinec businesses. Pups can have their holiday photograph taken in front of the Christmas tree for any monetary donation. All proceeds collected from the festivities will go directly to the Moore Humane Society in Carthage.

Moore Philharmonic Orchestra | 7 p.m.

The Moore Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents their 19th Annual Holiday Concert at Pinecrest High School’s Robert E. Lee Auditorium. Doors will open at 6pm. Admission is by donation of choice - any amount is greatly appreciated. Proceeds from our concerts fund our scholarship programs, music, operating expenses, and more.

Dec. 17 Santa Touring Pinebluff 12 p.m.

Santa will be touring the Pinebluff area on Sunday, Dec. 17th beginning at 12:00pm on the east side of town. Please visit the Pinebluff Fire Rescue Facebook social media page provided below for the specific route and estimated times.

ing

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

3

SPORTS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Colby Pennington

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Ava Depenbrock (5), shown here in a game last season, had a big night against Apex.

North Moore girls top the power rankings Power rankings for county teams North Moore Union Pines Pinecrest

North State Journal

led by Pekala’s 6.

Union Pines sees streak snapped

North Moore puts together wins

The Union Pines girls team saw its four-game winning streak come to an end last week. After winning at Douglas Byrd, 65-30 and beating Gray’s Creek in overtime, 48-45, the Vikings came back from South Johnston with a 48-31 defeat and a 4-4 record on the year.

Sophomore Savannah McCaskill had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds against Byrd. Junior Taryn Pekala (13 points) and junior Sashay Thompson (10) were also in double figures.

McCaskill, senior Natalie Auman and Pekala all had at least four steals in the game,

After starting off on the wrong foot, the North Moore girls’ team won back-to-back games to close out play for the week and improve to 4-1 on the year.

The Mustangs suffered their first loss of the season against visiting Northwood in the conference opener, as the Chargers ran off a 58-20 rout. Nine different Northwood players scored in the game.

North Moore bounced back two nights later with a 3632 win at Gray Stone Day. Junior Zeikierra Young scored 17 points to lead the Mustangs.

Ansley Preslar was one of three Mustangs with double-fig-

North Moore,

boys’ basketball ure rebounds, as the freshman had 11 to go with 7 assists and 7 steals. Junior Calissa Clendenin added 13 boards and junior Bailea Marley 12.

The Mustangs closed the week with a 41-31 road win at South Stanly. Young had 16 points to top the box score.

Marley had a double-double with 10 points and 15 rebounds, while Clendenin pulled down 13 boards to go with 4 steals.

Pinecrest still looking for first win The Pinecrest Patriots lost both games last week to fall to 0-6 on the year. Pinecrest hit the road for its conference opener, falling at Richmond, 77-39. A trip to Apex was also fruitless as the Patriots came out on the wrong end of a 5843 score.

Senior Ava Depenbrock did what she could in the Apex game, scoring 20 points with 6 rebounds in a losing cause.

Sophomore Aniyah McGregor added 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 steals.

Colby Pennington is a junior for the North Moore basketball team … among other things.

Pennington just finished a football season that saw him earn first-team All-Conference honors after finishing as the leading receiver and second leading scorer for the Mustangs.

He’s stepped things up on the hardwood, leading North Moore in scoring and rebounding so far this season. Last week, he was top scorer in all three of the Mustangs’ games.

He scored 21 against Grey Stone Day, 16 of the team’s 30 points in a loss to Northwood and 30 points, including 4-of-6 from three, against South Stanly.

The 6-foot-6, 255-pounder has also played baseball for North Moore and was on the golf team last year.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, December 13, 2023

4

obituaries

Karla Denise (Currie) Blanton May 31, 1963 - December 2, 2023

Karla Denise Blanton of Cameron passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the age of 60.

Karla was born on May 31, 1963, to the late Carson and Grace Griggs Currie. She was a graduate of Pinecrest High School and worked for what is now Mitsubishi Chemical in Greenville, SC. Karla enjoyed going to the beach and was a die-hard motorcycle rider.

She loved music and will be remembered for her style.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Wayne Campbell.

She leaves behind her sons, Jacob Blanton and his fiancé, Mackey McKenzie of Pinehurst, Jaden Davenport of Aberdeen; her siblings, Charlene Venable, Robin Craven her spouse, Johnny, Kim Davenport and her spouse, John; her grandsons, Carson and Wyatt Blanton; her niece, Tonya Michelle Venable; her nephew, John Craven, Jr.; and a host of friends.

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Anna Susan Wooten Grissom

Edward James Sharkany

March 5, 1948 - December 7, 2023

September 19, 1931 - November 30, 2023

January 18, 1950 - December 2, 2023

Panayota Clark of Aberdeen passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023, in her home at the age of 75. Panayota was born in Greece on March 5, 1948, to the late Kyriakos and Irene Digonis.

Edward James Sharkany, age 92, of Whispering Pines, NC passed away at FirstHealth Hospice House on November 30, 2023. Edward was born in Norwalk, CT, September 19, 1931 to Stephen Sharkany and Marie Leprich.

Edward is survived by his wife, Marion Studwell Sharkany; children, Nancy Ellis, Teresa Matheson (Paul) and Gregg Sharkany; grandchildren Katie Coffey (Nick), Neil Ellis (Ashley) and Jennifer Odom (Terrance); great grandchildren, TJ Coffey, Elizabeth Coffey, Madelyn Ellis, Briella Ellis; brother, Richard Sharkany. Edward was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Sharkany.

Anna Susan Wooten Grissom entered her eternal home on Saturday December 2, 2023.

“Sue”, as she was known by all, was born January 18, 1950 to Reverend Charles Wesley and Callie Wooten.

Left to cherish her memory is her beloved husband of 52 years, David; Daughters Kellie Grissom of Franklinton, and Susanna Grissom (Mark Scott) of Graham; Grandchildren Paige and David Ciferni of Franklinton; sister Charline Beck and her husband David of Seagrove; Brother-in-law Larry Allen of Whispering Pines; Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law Paul and Evelyn Grissom of Indiana; Several adoring nieces and nephews.

Proceeding her in death are her parents, Reverend and Mrs. Charles Wooten, her sister Christie Wooten Allen, her in-laws, James and Nora Lee Grissom.

Colonel Garald (Gary) R. Jacobsen

Capt. Robert B. Vosilus, USN (Ret.)

October 11, 1942 - December 5, 2023 Capt. Robert B. Vosilus, USN (Ret.), 81, of Pinehurst, made his final deployment on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, after a lengthy battle with Parkinsons.

Born in Norwalk, CT., Oct. 11, 1942, he was the son of the late Vitot and Muriel Dibble Vosilus.

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his brother Richard E. Vosilus.

Bob is survived by his wife, Diane C. Vosilus, his brother Lt. Col. John Vosilus USA, (Ret.), wife Terry, and a bevy of nieces.

May 2, 1943 - December 2, 2023 Colonel Garald (Gary) R. Jacobsen (Ret. U.S Army), of Southern Pines, NC, died peacefully on December 2nd, 2023 surrounded by his family.

Gary was born to Leah and Niles Jacobsen on May 2nd, 1943 in Vancouver, Washington.

In 1965, Gary graduated from the University of Oregon and that afternoon was commissioned as an Armor officer in the United States Army. The very next day he married Susan, his loving wife of 58 years.

His military awards were numerous, to include the Silver Star, the United States Army’s 3rd highest award for valor in combat. Gary was a role model not only to his 3 sons but to those soldiers who served with him.

Gary was a loving son, husband, wonderful father & grandfather and a loyal friend.

He will be greatly missed by all those who loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; his 3 sons, Scott & his wife Kara from East Greenwich, RI; Greg & his wife Liz, from Kaneohe, HI; Jim and his wife Rachel from Mooresville, NC; and 6 grandchildren, Alex, Matthew, Courtney, Samantha, Eric and Noah.

Jennifer (Jenny) Shaw Tipton May 17, 1971 - December 9, 2023

James Richard Jones, III

April 20, 1931 - December 10, 2023 James Richard Jones, III., 92, of Pinehurst, NC passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023.

Jim was born April 20, 1931 in Manhattan, NY, the only child of the late James R. Jones, Jr., and Catherine Benge Jones.

He is survived by his children, Deborah Carr, Timothy Jones (wife Angela) and Jeff Jones; grandchildren, Allison Carr, Ryan Jones, Lea Jones, Rebecca Jones, and Lindsey Jones; greatgrandchildren, Sedona, Vienna, and Hayes. Jim had another daughter by choice, Ellaine Burwell.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by the mother of his children, Mary Walter Jones, and his beloved life partner of over 30 years, Jean Mueller.

Joe White Elliott

December 7, 1930 - December 7, 2023 Joe White Elliott, passed away on his 93rd birthday, December 7, 2023.

Born on December 7, 1930 to the late Joe and Fleta Elliott.

His greatest passion was the love he had for his family, especially his grand and great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Richardson Elliott and one brother, Tommy Elliott.

He is survived by two children, Diane E. Singer (Donald) and Larry D. Elliott (Sherry); one brother, Henry Elliott; two sisters, Faye Miller and Betty Torrence; also survived by four grandchildren, Donna, Wayne, Katrina, and April; and five great grandchildren, Austin, Noah, Cody, Ethan and Lauren.

Jennifer (Jenny) Shaw Tipton, 52, of Pinehurst and formerly Washington Courthouse, OH., passed suddenly at her home on Saturday, December 9th.

Born in Washington Courthouse, OH, May 17, 1971, she is the daughter of Harry and Judy (Penwell) Shaw. Jenny is a graduate of Washington High School, class of 1989 and went on to earn her associate degree from Columbus State University.

Jenny is the loving wife of Gary Tipton, and they were happily married for 28 years.

She is the devoted mother of her two sons Garrett Tipton (24) and Trent Tipton (22), and a loving dog mom of Marley.

She is also survived by her parents Harry and Judy Shaw, along with her brother Jeff (Julie) Shaw and her many nieces (Claire and Kait Tipton, Molli Shaw) and nephews (Cory Tipton, Travis and Griffin Shaw).

Proudly supporting you every step of the way on your grief journey.

CONTACT

www.bolesfuneralhome.com Email: md@bolesfuneralhome.com Locations in: Southern Pines (910) 692-6262 | Pinehurst (910) 235-0366 | Seven Lakes (910) 673-7300

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