VOLUME 146 ISSUE 43 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM
C HATHAM NEWS & R ECORD THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL
the
BRIEF this week
Chatham Library to run winter reading BINGO challenge Chatham County Public Libraries will have a Winter Reading BINGO Challenge for children and teens, running from Jan. 2, 2024, through February 29, 2024, at all library branches in the county. Open to participants aged 2-18, the challenge involves picking up a BINGO sheet at any local library branch. By completing a 5-in-a-row BINGO, young readers can earn a free book, available while supplies last. Additionally, all participants who complete at least one BINGO will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift certificate to McIntyre’s Books. For a BINGO sheet, visit the Chatham Community Library in Pittsboro, the Goldston Public Library, or Wren Memorial Library in Siler City.
New driving license changes coming for 2024 Teen drivers and parents, changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system are coming on Jan. 1. As of the new year, teens must hold their Level 1 Limited Learner Permit for nine months, increased from the current six months, before taking the road test to obtain a Level 2 Limited Provisional License. “The law doesn’t allow for grandfathering anyone in,” said North Carolina DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin in a press release. “So, if someone completes their six months of Level 1 before year’s end but fails to take their road test by Dec. 29, they will have to wait until nine months to take the test and get Level 2.” The GDL system, in effect since 1997, had a 12-month requirement for Level 2 for most of its existence. This was temporarily reduced to six months during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new law, enacted on May 8, 2023, establishes the nine-month requirement starting in 2024. To obtain a Level 2 license, teen drivers must be at least 16, log 60 hours of driving, pass a road test, and provide printed proof of insurance in their name.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Considering the options
Chatham Central senior Devonte Johnson scans the court as Seaforth senior Lamar Murray stands ready on defense on December 15, 2023. Chatham Central won 64-57.
Chatham County Leadership Academy graduates 24 students in 2023 class Program fosters local leadership across government and nonprofit sectors
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record CHATHAM COUNTY celebrated 24 graduates from its Leadership Academy Class of 2023 on December 7, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to developing local leaders. Since 2002, this unique program has cultivated leadership skills in 405 indi-
viduals, distinguishing itself as a critical stepping stone for county and community leaders. The Leadership Academy, designed for Chatham County employees and extended to local municipality and nonprofit personnel, focuses on enhancing necessary management skills and preparing individuals for increased responsibilities. A notable feature of this program is its instruction exclusively by County employees, many of whom are academy alumni. This approach has proven successful, expanding in recent years to include par-
ticipants from neighboring towns and nonprofit organizations active in Chatham County. “We are so fortunate in Chatham County to have the most talented, hard-working, and passionate people serving our community,” said County Manager Dan LaMontagne in a press release. “The Chatham County Leadership Academy allows our valuable employees to grow both professionally and personally.” This year’s academy recognized Chance Mullis from the Chatham County Planning Department with the Charlie
Horne Outstanding Student award, an accolade chosen by peers and instructors. The comprehensive one-year program includes essential courses such as County Government 101, Supervision, and Business Writing. Participants also have the opportunity to select from electives like Hot Topics, Workplace Safety & Security, and Defensive Driving, catering to a broad spectrum of professional development needs. Town and non-profit employees participate through See LEADERSHIP, page A3
Candidates set for 2024 Chatham elections Chatham News & Record
“Chatham County is my home and I am proud of the progress we have made, especially over the past few years.” State Rep. Robert Reives
ONE OF NORTH CAROLINA’S fastest-growing counties saw varying levels of interest in races for elective office ahead of the 2024 election cycle. Races for two Chatham County Commissioner seats and Register of Deeds saw only one candidate each file for the office, effectively ending the contests nearly a year before the Nov. 5, 2024 general election. In the 1st Commissioner District, incumbent board chair Karen Howard will return for another term. She has served on the Board of Commissioners since 2014. In the 2nd District, Amanda Robertson, currently a member of the county’s planning board, was the only candidate to file. Current 2nd District Commissioner Mike Dasher did not seek reelection to the board. Dasher also current serves as the board’s vice chair. Register of Deeds Lunday Riggsbee, who has been in office since 2014, filed for another term. Races for Chatham County’s delegation to the General Assembly will be contested in November 2024. Democratic state Rep. Robert Reives, the House Minority Leader, filed for another two-year term in Raleigh. He faces Republican Joe Godfrey. “I am proud to file for reelection and continue serving the people of this community in the North Carolina House of Representatives,” Reives said in a statement after he filed for reelection. “Chatham County is my home and I am proud of the progress we have made, especially over the past few years. I look forward to earning the trust See FILINGS, page A9
AP PHOTO
Courtney Steed and Jesse Wimberley talk about the need for controlled burns at his property Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, in West End.
Rekindling ‘fire culture’ to help pine trees thrive Prescribed burns clear the ground, leaving tree trunks free to grow By James Pollard for AP/Report for America WEST END — Jesse Wimberley burns the woods with neighbors. Using new tools to revive an old communal tradition, they set fire to wiregrasses and forest debris with a drip torch, corralling embers with leaf blowers. Wimberley, 65, gathers groups across eight North Carolina counties to starve future wildfires by lighting leaf litter ablaze.
The burns clear space for longleaf pine, a tree species whose seeds won’t sprout on undergrowth blocking bare soil. Since 2016, the fourth-generation burner has fueled a burgeoning movement to formalize these volunteer ranks. Prescribed burn associations See BURNS, page A10
$2.00
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A2 THURSDAY
CHATHAM
12.21.23 #18
happening NEW SALEM CHURCH Christmas Eve Service Dec. 24th at 6:00 PM 5030 Old Graham Road, Pittsboro.
“Join the conversation” Chatham News & Record www.chathamnewsrecord.com
SANDY BRANCH BAPTIST CHURCH You are invited to join us at Sandy Branch on December 24th for a special day of worship and celebration.
North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 Copyright 2023 North State Media LLC Neal Robbins, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Asheebo Rojas, Sports Reporter A.P. Dillon, Capitol News Reporter Ryan Henkel, Reporter Bob Sutton, Reporter Jesse Deal, Reporter P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer
We will have our usual activities on Sunday morning – Sunday School at 10 a.m. and morning worship service at 11. At 6:00 p.m. we will have our annual Christmas Eve program in the Activities Building as we use scripture and hymns to remind us of the beautiful Christmas story of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The church is located at 715 Sandy Branch Church Road, Bear Creek, and all are always welcome!
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: chathamcommunity@northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
David Guy, Advertising Manager
The Chatham News & Record (USPS #101-160) is published weekly, 52 weeks a year, by North State Media LLC, 303 West Raleigh Street, Siler City, N.C. 27344.
For a vacation hold or to report a delivery problem: 919-663-3232 To place a classified or display ad: 919-663-3232; Fax: 919-663-4042 To submit a news tip or correction: 919-663-3232; email: news@ chathamnr.com
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
Get in touch
www
Dec. 25 Residential
Land
448 River Point Road (Moncure) 4.10 acres 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath $300,000
170 Cherokee Dr. (Chapel Hill) 1.150 acres $100,000
2035 Long Point Trail (Sanford) Lake Front!! 0.480 acres 5 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath $735,000 94 Sunny Ridge Lane (Pittsboro) 5.150 acres 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath $875,000 85 Herndon Creek Way (Chapel Hill-Westfall Subdivision) 0.168 acres 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath $585,000 809 Stoneybrook (Sanford – Westcroft Subdivision) 1.21 acres, 4 Bedroom, 3 bath $360,000
188 Cherokee Dr. (Chapel Hill) 1.150 acres $100,000 1388 Henry Oldham Road (Bear Creek) 4.840 acres $150,000 1049 Alton King Road (Goldston) 11.548 acres $200,000 1223 Alton King Road (Goldston) 12.701 acres $225,000 893 Alton King Road (Goldston) 24.938 acres $325,000 1544 Roberts Chapel Road (Goldston) 17.632 acres $225,000
1710 Roberts Chapel Road (Goldston) 17.643 $225,000
0 Moore Mountain Road (Pittsboro) 25.92 acres $1,000,000
Christmas Day
37 E Cotton Road (Pittsboro) 0.996 acres $300,000
00 Moore Mountain Road (Pittsboro) 36.35 acres $1,400,000
Dec. 28
5663 NC 751 Hwy (Apex) 1.771 acres $325,000
1000 Nesbit Road (Pleasant Garden) 52.130 acres $1,500,000
Free Christmas Tree Recycling
5645 NC 751 Hwy (Apex) 3.584 acres $625,000 0 Hal Clark Road (Siler City) 29.730 acres $360,000 0 Old 421 Road (Liberty) 97.760 acres $500,000 0 JB Morgan Road (Apex) 21.500 acres $825,000
6122 Pleasant Hill Church Road (Siler City) 18.58 acres $300,000 330 Lowe Hill Lane (Moncure) 4.846 acres $180,000 8636/8710 Johnson Mill Road (Bahama) 182.89 acres $3,240,000 Commercial Unimproved 10681 E US 64 Hwy (Apex) 3.97 acres $1,000,000
chathamnewsrecord.com Residential
Land
Land
4377 Old US Highway 421 N (Siler City) 7.88 acres 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath $370,000
13120 Strickland Road (Raleigh) 16.250 acres $1,500,000
1223 Alton King Road (Goldston) 12.701 acres $225,000
00 Hamlets Chapel Road (Pittsboro) 118.742 $4,250,000
Commercial Unimproved
@ChathamNR
@ChathamNR
3 - 8 p.m. Join your community for some local last minute shopping! Lots of gift vendors, live music, adult beverages, fire pits, the moon and stars. Let every season be the reason to shop local at The Plant at 220 Lorax Lane in Pittsboro.
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Shop for some last minute Christmas dinner items at the market on the lawn of the Chatham Mills building in downtown Pittsboro, with all products grown or made within 100 miles.
CONTACT US
To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
Dec. 22
Chatham Mills Farmers Market
Send address changes to The Chatham News & Record, PO Box 290, Siler City, N.C. 27344
We stand corrected
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
Dec. 23
N.C. POSTMASTER
Auto-renew; cancel anytime
mosaicatchathampark.com
Pittsboro Bazaar Night Market
BUSINESS
Subscription rates begin at $6.58/ month (1 year print & digital, paid annually) or $4.92/month (digital only, paid annually). Pick your plan at www. chathamnewsrecord.com/subscribe.
SPONSORED BY
THIS WEEK’S VIDEO What Is A Quit Claim Deed? https://youtu.be/mp4G4HAYOPc?si=Ke9R1Pc0L5osps96
1700 Hillsboro Street (Pittsboro) 29.79 acres $4,500,000
7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. We are offering free Christmas tree recycling at the Solid Waste & Recycling facility at 28 County Services Road in Pittsboro Dec. 28 through Jan. 19, Monday through Friday. Artificial trees can be placed in the scrap metal recycling bin, but all decorations and lights must be removed. Pre-lit trees cannot be recycled, so throw those in with the regular trash.
Pittsboro Farmers Market 3 - 6 p.m. The Plant is happy to be the host of The Pittsboro Farmers Market. The 15+ vendor market is held under the solar panel structures. The Pittsboro Farmers Market offers local produce, meat, flowers, soaps, and more.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
CRIME LOG
ing x David Lee Johnson, December 10
51, of Bear Creek, was arrested for assault on a female and interfering with emergency communications. December 11 x Joseph Wiley Beal, 42, of Goldston, was arrested for discharging weapon into occupied dwelling, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and damaging personal property. x Hally Alexis Scotton, 21, of Siler City, was arrested failure to appear in court as well as a number of child abuse charges. December 13 x Jeremy Lenel Palmer, 40, of Sanford, was arrested for trafficking opium or heroin, possession of marijuana up to ½ oz., and possession of drug paraphernalia. December 14 x Meleah Denise Hicks, 24, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for driving while
impaired, child abuse, and driving with license revoked.
possession of cocaine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
x Cierra Chantel Alston, 21, of Siler City, was arrested for failure to appear.
x Anhelica Maria Mata, 24, of Goldston, was arrested for felony conspiracy and aid and abetting an armed robbery.
x Maria Molina Jauregui, 30, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for communicating threats. x Bradley Jason Scott, 41, of Bear Creek, was arrested for a felony violation of a domestic violence protection order. x Carrie Anne Mote, 30, of Siler City, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretense, possession of a stolen property and larceny of a firearm. x Dujuan Rashad Hood, 43, of Chapel Hill, was arrested on a child support warrant. December 15 x Jimmy Jerome-Maurice Headen, 42, of Siler City, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a felon, trafficking opium or heroin, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, felony
x Shannon Terrell Brown, 38, of Goldston, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a felon, felony conspiracy, robbery with a dangerous weapon, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, burning personal property, assault by pointing a gun, and communicating threats. x Philip Demario Clay Smith, 33, of Durham, was arrested for disclosing private imagery of an adult, misdemeanor stalking and assault on a female. x Pierre Josue DubonBenard, 37, of Siler City, was arrested for violating a domestic violence protectie order.
Chatham County launches free QuitSmart stop smoking program Runs through January to help with New Year’s resolutions Chatham News & Record THE CHATHAM County Public Health Department is initiating a free virtual QuitSmart program in January 2024 to assist residents in quitting tobacco use. Tobacco is a leading preventable cause of death in the U.S., causing approximately 480,000 deaths annually. In Chatham County, according to the 2021 Community Assessment, 11.2% of adults use tobacco, with ciga-
rettes the most common. The QuitSmart sessions will include an informational meeting on January 3rd, followed by meetings on January 10th, 24th, and 26th, each from 6-7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Participants will receive two weeks of nicotine patches, QuitSmart materials, support from fellow participants, and a personalized pre-quit and 12-week quit plan. Register by December 29th by contacting Program Lead Tia Brown at tia.brown@chathamcountync.gov or call 919-5454857. More information is available at chathamcountync.gov/ quitsmart.
December 16 x Luke David Bathrick, 36, of Moncure, was for resisting a police officer.
CAROLI N A F I REARMS T RA I N I NG 1641 Hawkins Ave., Sanford • (919) 356-6954 • www.carolinafirearmstraining.com
SCAN TO REGISTER
A3
Concealed Carry Class – $75 Class dates (Siler City)
Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 10 Contact us today for more information!
COURTESY PHOTO
The 2023 Leadership Academy Class. LEADERSHIP from page 1
nominations or general applications, with each municipality and the non-profit community having designated slots. “Currently, there are five executive directors of non-profits in Chatham County that are graduates of the program,” noted county spokesperson Kara Lusk in an interview, emphasizing the program’s broad reach. “Chatham County department leaders and supervisors are encouraged to complete the academy as their workload permits,” she explained. “And most have done so.”
The selection process within the county is primarily nomination-based, with department heads and office holders putting forward candidates. The demand for participation consistently outstrips available capacity, underscoring the program’s perceived value among county employees. With approximately 700 employees in Chatham County government, the Leadership Academy plays a crucial role in shaping the future of local governance and community service, a testament to the county’s commitment to nurturing talent and leadership within its ranks.
AT YOUR Bob Atkinson, GRI, CRS, E-PRO Homes-Land-Investments
C: 919-362-6999
Call Advertising @ 919-663-3232
D & G Plumbing Problems?
Commercial and Residential Installation and Service
Located in Siler City
Locally Owned and Operated by Greg and Donna Kennedy Licensed and Insured
2I¿ FH &HOO
Atkinson Properties Group bobatkinson321@gmail.com
JHJ Painting & Power Washing “We Specialize in All Your Painting & Power Washing Needs” Deck Washing, Renewal & Repair • Window Washing & Install Carpentry • Door Install • Other Small Repairs
John Hayes, Jr • 919-548-0474
Local Service Directory
ASHEBORO TIE YARDS, INC Mushroom Compost • Shredded Hardwood Mulch Pine Mini Nuggets • Brick Chips • Sand • Top Soil Black, Brown & Red Mulch • White Pea Gravel • Railroad Ties 205 Hanner Town Rd. Bear Creek (2 miles South of Bonlee on Old 421)
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 7 AM - 4 PM, Fri. 7 AM - 12 PM
(919) 837-2822 • We Deliver!
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A4
OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
Second chances As a person of faith, I believe the message of the holiday season is about second chances and communities working to support one another.
MY FAVORITE childhood concept was the do-over. Whether shooting hoops or swinging a baseball bat, sometimes I needed a second chance. Maybe a third or fourth! Adults, however, are less receptive to the do-over, which saddens me, especially when people are trying to put their lives back together. Recently at my church, we welcomed guests from Benevolence Farm in neighboring Alamance County, “where second chances grow naturally.” On the thirteenacre farm, employees produce candles, soap, and other body care products. The goals are life-changing: “To create a more equitable, just, and nurturing world for women and the communities they transform.” Benevolence Farm provides housing and employment for women returning from incarceration. It’s one of the only programs of its kind in the state. Benevolence Farm not only helps individuals through their programs but also advocates for legislative change. Second Chance Lobby Day highlights reentry issues for the formerly incarcerated. Citizens approach our North Carolina lawmakers with their stories in hopes of “removing barriers to productive citizenship for individuals with criminal records.” No one gets a complete do-over, but people do want a second chance.
I’m reflecting on second chances during the Christmas season when my faith talks about a young woman who, in her time and culture, faced criminal prosecution for being pregnant and unmarried. She might have been stoned to death. But Mary received the benefit of the doubt from her fiancé, Joseph, and even more support from her cousin, Elizabeth, who housed and sheltered her for three months. Readers are likely more familiar with the story of the nativity, yet the shocking aspects of the story have softened over time with idyllic children’s plays about a warm, cozy barn. The outrageous truth is that a woman in labor was left to fend for herself. She was treated the same as the livestock. Tragically, some women at Benevolence Farm tell stories about how our modern society’s treatment of those recently released from prisons and jails is not much better. Benevolence Farm promises, “We believe that we are more than our worst mistakes.” People of diverse backgrounds and experiences can unify and rally behind this statement. As a person of faith, I believe the message of the holiday season is about second chances and communities working to support one another. Second chances are also for the greater good. After all, we never know how one mother might change the world.
EDITORIAL | BOB WACHS
Traditions, old and new, big part of Christmas Nowhere, it seems, is tradition more alive and active than at Christmas.
MR. WEBSTER, in his book of words, defines “tradition” as “an inherited, established or customary pattern of thought, action or behavior” and as “the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction.” He actually goes on to say a few more things but that about seems to cover the big picture. And nowhere, it seems, is tradition more alive and active than at Christmas. We all have traditions and they cover the gamut from the sublime to the silly and everywhere in between. Some are years, even decades and generations, in the making while others may be as fresh as the snow we can’t see to get any of lately. They revolve around family and friends and faith. Some are short and simple while others take a bit longer to come to pass. But regardless of the who, what, when, where how and why, they all add to the fabric of our lives and make them richer. I remember that as a little guy we got our Christmas tree from the woods. Dad would go out on the appointed day and in time come back with a cedar tree he’d found on land he knew he could explore. They always smelled so good when Mama would bring them into the house and set them in the living room in front of the corner windows. We had those big multi-colored bulbs that in time would see the paint come off, turning them into two-toned versions. Today the tradition at our place is small white bulbs, mostly at the request years ago of the two forty-somethings who used to be teenagers who lived at my house. And while it’s always a work of art when their mama finishes the task, I wouldn’t mind seeing those big gaudy bulbs one more time . . . especially if we could add the shiny metal strings of garland and the loose icicles I used to throw at the tree. Mama would also tape all the Christmas cards she and Daddy got onto the doors in our dining room. It was always interesting to see how many of the same cards came in the mail from different folks. It was also always interesting to try to figure out who a few were from because there was either no name or nobody knew who Clem and Sally Jo were or
how they knew us. Today most of the cards that come in – and there aren’t as many as before – look strangely like photo albums and many times there’s no reference to Christmas. Not saying that’s a bad thing because it’s nice to see how the kids have grown but sometimes it does make me wonder just what that has to do with the birth of Jesus. Another tradition at my childhood home was that someone – Santa or Mama or Daddy or somebody – would leave some shoeboxes full of nuts and fruit and candy and such under the tree. Talk about smelling good; sometimes I’d wait about 10 minutes before tearing into the Milky Way or Three Musketeers there. After a few days the supply of the good stuff like that would be getting thin and inevitably my two older brothers would fulfill another family tradition and raid my box and take my candy and leave a Brazil nut or two or some shriveled raisins in its place. We also had a tradition that allowed us to open one present on Christmas Eve. Why I don’t know. Just like Mr. Webster said, there weren’t any written instructions. Today my group still sort of practices that tradition. As time has moved on, others have been added. For several years the folks in the congregation where I am have had a candlelight Christmas Eve Communion service. As we gather in the chill of the night outside the church doors and sing and hear “Silent Night” I get just a glimpse of what I think the night outside Bethlehem was like that night long ago. For years, each Christmas I would read and reread “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” when the Chatham News/ Record ran it on the editorial page. And for the longest time local radio station WNCA had Mrs. Mattie Walden read the Christmas Story – the real one – from the Book where it first appeared. Miss Mattie now spends her Christmases in the Place where it originated in the company of son Bill but I wonder if Barry Hayes saved a taped copy of her reading. Maybe so and I just haven’t caught it since she went on to her permanent home. There are others, of course, and no doubt you have yours. They are important; savor them. Treasure them. Enjoy them. And, by all means, be sure to pass them on . . .
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
COLUMN | JAN HUTTON
COLUMN SUSAN ESTRICH
My near ‘Twilight Zone’ experience… Bear with me while I take a dip into my inner drama queen, trying to avoid being fully immersed in her oh-so-seductive quicksand.
IF SOME WELL-MEANING person intoned, “Just be nice, Jan,” I’d probably feel a bit like gagging. Wouldn’t you? Especially in the context of what appeared to be an incredibly botched medical appointment. Bear with me while I take a dip into my inner drama queen, trying to avoid being fully immersed in her ohso-seductive quicksand. Here we go! Got up at the break of light, dressed quickly, and out the driveway, 7 miles down to the medical facility. Managed to find a place in the already crowded, paid, parking deck. Walked on the very L-O-N-G walkway to the building, was admitted with proper ID, and moved to the first registration point. After offering (twice) all the requested information, I knew I was in trouble. No, there was no appointment for me in the system. (Uttered a very guttural “argh” which only my inner drama queen could hear.) Was sent to the basement lab for a second check of my appointment where I was also deemed persona non-grata. Teeth clenched, returned to main registration, and was told I had no alternative for keeping the appointment I needed. Oh, yes, the very same appointment for which I’d received an official reminder two days ago, but had deleted! Truth: I began to hear the music theme from Rod Serling’s “The Twilight Zone” in my head, inclusive of the show’s iconic introduction: “You are about to enter another dimension….”) Shook my head, hoping to dislodge the possibility of sliding into The Twilight Zone. Seemed to work. At that juncture, the occasional adult who lives inside me stepped up and took me by the hand to the second floor’s clinical practice office. Managed to speak to a scheduler who, once she understood I was not trying to snooker her, reinserted a lab appointment. Back again to the first floor‘s main registration point. STILL,
NO APPOINTMENT TIME SHOWS UP. Another 10 minutes of my persistent internal diva chatter, and lo and behold, I am no longer persona non grata in the appointment system. However, I could not use the quick computer sign-in because I had a ‘brand new appointment’ which needed to be processed by a real human being (whose cubicle I could not find.) Finally, made it back down to the basement lab… How does this relate to my initial sentence, “Be nice, Jan”? I mean, would you be feeling nice if, like a manic pinball, you’re bounced around for a necessary medical appointment? (Uh, oh, I can feel an inner drama queen resurgence happening. Down girl!) A reframe. I had no idea where the problem with my missing appointment originated. It’s a busy facility and the long-time fatigue of Covid sucked up way, way too many resources. So, yes, I initially gave way to my inner drama queen. It was fortunate that only I could hear my drama queen opining, “Why me?!” Let’s face it, we’ve all recently lived through a plague. Externalizing my emotional plague would help no one, including myself. However, there’s (drum roll) a new bug going ‘round - the civility bug. Now that’s a bug I can live with. Sure, I was a tad short-tempered in my first two verbal encounters at this facility, but the civility bug bit rather quickly after that. Let’s be honest, I became a superspreader of that good ol’ civility bug during the rest of my interactions in this building. And I felt better, oh heavens, so much better! It was clear as day that those who experienced my intentional sharing of civility contagion perked up like wilted flowers plopped into water. Oh, yes, that civility virus is a force with which to be reckoned! So go on, be a civility bug superspreader you’ll feel better and just about everybody else in your orbit will, too. Not bad, not bad at all…
COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON
Proud to keep serving you This holiday season, let us remember all those who have defended freedom serving in our nation’s uniform— especially those who do not have the opportunity to return home to their families.
For my family and many of yours, the holiday season is the best time of the year. From decking the halls to exchanging gifts with loved ones and friends, our joyful holiday traditions serve as a bright light in uncertain times. As another year is drawing to a close, I have been reflecting on the incredible results House Republicans have delivered this year on behalf of the American people. To address the crisis at our Southern Border, House Republicans passed the Secure the Border Act—the strongest border security bill America has ever seen in order to keep our nation safe and our border secure. My legislation, the HALT Fentanyl Act, also passed the House and would increase penalties on this dangerous substance flowing across our border. Every state, including North Carolina, is suffering from the impacts of President Joe Biden’s open border policies. Just last week, 118 pounds of fentanyl was intercepted in North Carolina—enough to kill our entire population two times over. Despite the record-breaking amount of migrant crossings and deadly drugs flowing across our borders, Senate Democrats refuse to take up these bills. Their lack of action combined with the disastrous policies of the Biden Administration continues to fuel the crisis at the Southern Border. In addition, my legislation, the Protecting America’s Distribution Transformer Supply Chain Act, recently passed the Energy and Commerce Committee and will be brought up soon for a vote in the full House. This bill would strengthen the U.S. supply chain for distribution transformers, and help prevent communities from experiencing long outages similar to what we endured last December in Moore County. As the representative of the largest Army base in the world, I’m proud of everything we have accomplished this year to strengthen our nation’s
A5
defense and military readiness. Last week, the House passed the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which bolsters our nation’s defense capabilities to keep up with foreign adversaries, eliminates the woke ideology infiltrating our military, and takes care of our men and women in uniform by providing the largest pay raise in over 20 years. It is not a perfect bill, but ensuring our military families and veterans have the resources they deserve is among the most important duties we have in Congress. I will never stop fighting to make sure our community’s veterans, troops, and their families receive the support they deserve. This holiday season, let us remember all those who have defended freedom serving in our nation’s uniform—especially those who do not have the opportunity to return home to their families. I continue to pray for the strength and safety of soldiers from our region, and across the country, who are away from their families. Let’s not forget those family members who miss them. God bless you all. I hope you are proud of all the work our office accomplished this year on your behalf. I will always work hard on the issues that are important to you and your family. My dedicated staff in our Southern Pines and Fayetteville district offices are here to provide you with highquality constituent services. To find our office locations and office hours, visit hudson.house.gov. While we have a lot of work left ahead of us, I look forward to 2024 and the opportunity to continue to serve you and our community. Together, House Republicans will keep fighting to get our country on a better path forward. As Hanukkah ends and the Christmas holiday nears, I hope you enjoy time with loved ones and remember what’s most important—our faith, our families, our friends, and the many blessings we enjoy as citizens of the greatest nation on Earth.
Jack Smith plays his Trump card IN AN EXTRAORDINARY move, Special Counsel Jack Smith asked the Supreme Court on Monday to rule on President Donald Trump’s claim that he is immune from prosecution for election interference. The trial judge has already rejected his claim of wholesale immunity, and in the normal course, the issue would next be taken up by the appellate court, which could delay the trial of Trump. Instead, Smith is taking the case directly to the Supreme Court, which has given Trump until Dec. 20 to respond to the request. What’s going on here? It’s all about timing. The trial is currently scheduled to begin on March 4. The president’s strategy has been to do everything he can to delay his trials so as to not interfere with his campaign for the presidency. He is now in the awkward position where, having put forth the broad claim of presidential immunity, he has to decide whether to urge the court not to decide the claim now, even though a decision in his favor would result in the case against him being thrown out. The underlying issue is one that the court has never decided: Does a president have absolute immunity from prosecution for crimes committed while he was president? In papers filed last October, Trump put forward his claim of absolute immunity, which was rejected by the trial judge two weeks ago. The president’s lawyers had noticed an appeal to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals and asked the trial court to freeze the case until the appeal was decided -- a delay that could potentially put the trial off until a newly elected President Trump could pardon himself. Technically speaking, Smith made two requests to the court: first, that they decide the case before the appellate court heard it; and second, that they do so on an expedited basis. “The United States recognizes that this is an extraordinary request,” Smith wrote in the papers he filed on Monday, adding that “this is an extraordinary case.” Fifty years ago, the Watergate Special Counsel used the procedure to take directly to the Supreme Court the subpoena for the White House tapes; the Supreme Court ended up rejecting Richard Nixon’s claim of executive privilege, effectively ending his presidency. “Certiorari before judgment,” as the procedure is technically called, requires the votes of four justices to hear the case. The court has reportedly used the procedure some 19 times in the last 15 years. To be sure, this is a conservative court dominated by Republican appointees. But on issues of executive privilege, the court has been more restrained than on social issues. In 2020, the court squarely rejected Trump’s claim that he had an absolute right to block the release of his financial records from prosecutors, with Chief Justice John Roberts writing that “no citizen, not even the president, is categorically above the common duty to produce evidence when called upon in a criminal proceeding.” Also in 2020, the court rejected a suit brought by the state of Texas that aimed to throw out results in four battleground states that Trump lost, and refused to review suits filed by Trump lawyers claiming that voting machines had been hacked in the election. And just last year, the court turned down a request from Trump seeking to halt the release of White House records relating to the attack on the Capitol, upholding the order of Judge Tanya Chutkan, the judge in this case, that “presidents are not kings.” So far, the president has managed to turn the 91 counts against him into something of a calling card, using the charges effectively for fundraising while avoiding the political costs one might expect. But a decision going against him from the Supreme Court, and a fullblown trial beginning around Super Tuesday, could bring home the reality and change the equation. Arguing for delay may be awkward for the president, but not nearly as awkward as running his campaign from the steps of the federal courthouse in D.C. while he stands trial.
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.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A6
obituaries IN MEMORY JANET WALTERS DEC.13TH, 2023 Janet Walters age 72 passed away Wednesday December 13, 2023, peacefully at home. Janet was a lifelong educator and had a passion for learning and teaching for over 40 years. She is survived by her husband Jackie, two daughters, Michelle and Nichole and their spouses. She is also survived by her stepson Robbie, his spouse and one brother Ralph and spouse. Also surviving are one niece, one nephew and several grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donate to St Jude’s or your favorite children’s charity. No services at this time. MARTA BROWN PURVIS DEC.23RD, 1957 – DEC.12TH, 2023 Marta Brown Purvis, 65, of Carthage, passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at FirstHealth Hospice House, surrounded by her family. The funeral will be at 3:00 pm on Friday, December 15, 2023, at Putnam Friends Church with Pastor James Brewer presiding. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00-2:45 pm.
Juanita Barker Richardson
July 22nd, 1945-Dec.15th, 2023
Juanita Barker Richardson, 78, of Bear Creek, NC, passed away December 15th, 2023, at her home surrounded by family and loved ones. Juanita was born in Chatham
Marta was born in Randolph County on December 23, 1957, to William and Eloise Brady Brown. She loved life and enjoyed cooking, shopping, and reading. She adored her grandchildren and spending time with her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Roger Brown and her special mother, Linda Jones Brady. Marta is survived by her husband of 48 years, Tony Steven Purvis, of the home; children, Santana Purvis Chriscoe (James), of Carthage and Tony Steven Purvis, Jr.(Christina), of Carthage; special father, Dwight Brady, of Bennett; sisters, Lisa Brown Cockman, of Carthage, Anita Brady, of Bennett, Sharon Brady Hussey (Randy), of Bennett, Tonya Brady Saunders (Brian), of Bennett, Amy Simmons Gibson, of Level Cross and Tina Simmons Masterson (Douglas), of Mississippi; brother, Tony Simmons, of Denton; grandchildren, Jonah Chriscoe, Macy Chriscoe, Peyton Purvis and River Purvis and a host of family and friends. GAIL DEATON WALLACE MARCH 6TH, 1954-DEC.11TH, 2023 Gail Deaton Wallace, 69, of Robbins, passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023, at her home. The graveside service for family was held at 12:00 pm on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at Beulah Baptist Church with Ted Gardner presiding. Gail was born in Moore County on March 6, 1954, to Virgil and Emily Sheffield Deaton. She worked as a sewer for Ithaca Mills and later as a deli manager at Walmart in Siler City. She loved crafts, sewing, quilting, cooking, and gardening. She loved her family and spending time with them. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sisters, Lorene, Colene, Nancy and Barbara; brothers, Dale, Robert, Jessie and Virlin and grandchild, Cami Jo Brown. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Johnny Lee Wallace, of the home; daughters, Christie Brown (Brent), of Seagrove and Misty Phillips (Kevin,) of Eagle Springs; son, Ted Gardner (Lisa), of Asheboro; sister, Rosa Yearby, of Pinehurst; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Wallace, Braxton Wallace, Tyler Upchurch, Nathan Gardner and Braxtin Gardner and a host of family and friends.
Veonia Cassie Mae Goldston
May 4th, 1939-Dec.15th, 2023
Veonia Cassie Mae Goldston Alston was born on May 4, 1939, to the late Emma Alston Goldston and Rena Paul Goldston. She was called home on December 15, 2023. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Glovers Grove AME Zion Church. Veonia will lie in state from 12:00 to 1:00 P.M. Burial will follow at Chatham Memorial Park. Veonia married Grady Thomas Alston on April 16, 1960. A native of Chatham County, N.C. she at an early age joined Glover’s Grove A.M.E. Zion Church. Later she moved her membership to Evans Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church joining her husband. She was active in her early years in the church Sunday School, choir and singing groups and the usher board. After graduating from Chatham High School, she was pursuing a degree in Elementary Education at Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC when her studies were interrupted to accompany her husband. Later she attended Arizona State University Tempie, Arizona obtaining a degree in Dietary Nutrition. Also, she was blessed with the highly educational benefit of extensive travel with her husband. She traveled throughout most of the United States and Europe, including Germany, France, Switzerland, Luxenburg, Holland and Austria. She was active wherever her travels took her during their military career earning qualifying certificates as an American Red Cross Volunteer, Dental and Medical Assistant,
SPONSORED BY DONALDSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY
County to Johnie Henry Barker and Dena Hicks Barker on July 22nd, 1945. She was employed as a beautician for 54 years and worked at Total Fit Beauty Shop. Juanita was a devoted Christian woman. She was a member of Brush Creek Baptist Church and the church choir. She also was a guide for the Judgement House. She was an assistant Sunday school teacher and a member of the middle couple’s Sunday school class. Juanita loved gardening and growing her flowers, cooking, and canning, and being a homemaker for her family. She loved her grandchildren and getting to spend time and make memories with them. She is survived by her husband of 18 years, Ronnie Richardson; two sons, Shannon Hussey (Rebekah) of Bear Creek and Travis Hussey (Susan) of Bear Creek; one brother,
Johnie H. Barker, Jr. of Bennett; three grandchildren, Timothy, Hannah, and Kelsey Hussey. She is preceded in death by her parents, Johnie and Dena, an infant son, Keith Hussey, brothers, Earl, Virgil, and David Barker, sisters, Allene Hart, Rachel Barker, Christine Harris, Virginia Justice, and Frances Gilmore. The funeral service will be Thursday, December 21st, 2023, at 11 AM at Brush Creek Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will follow afterwards. Services will be officiated by Reverend Patrick Fuller and Reverend Robert Kidd. Family would like any food taken to the church on Thursday, December 21st, 2023. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Richardson family. Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com
Refugee Camp Volunteer and Certified Nurses Aide from CCTC, Sanford, NC. Among her numerous recognition and awards was one for her many hours of work with refugees in West Germany. Also, the military awarded her with commendations for highly professional work in the Dental and Medical Clinics in Korlshire, Germany. She was named the chairman of the Protestant Women of Chapel Publicity and Refugee Care. She has completed many hours of volunteer work with the American Red Cross and in various hospitals. Her compassion and concern for others led her to share dinners with lonely soldiers during all the major holidays while the servicemen were away from home and family. Always ready to help others she fed many small children who appeared to be hungry and in need. This same attitude led her to faithfully feed and comfort families during their times of bereavement. After she was not able to actively help others, she faithfully supported charity organizations such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, USO, Disabled American Veterans, Durham Rescue Mission, and many others. Of course, she was known in the community for her pound cakes, cocnut cakes, pineapple cakes, chocolate cakes and pies. And loving to wear a hat. Her motto was “Let my work speak for me”. Her record on earth is now complete. It has spoken well of her. Veonia was preceded in death by her parents Rena Paul Goldston and Emma Alston Goldston; brothers, Jimmy James Goldston and Johnny Willard Goldston; son, Kenneth Thomas Alston. She leaves to cherish her: husband, Grady Thomas Alston of 63 years, daughter, Pamela Denise Alston; brother Charlie Monroe Goldston; foster sons, Darryl Goldston and Jonathon Brown; devoted sister-in-law, Rose Goldston; sisters-in-law, Fannie Long and Roberta Goldston; brother-in-law, Nathaniel Headen; nieces, Tammy Goldston, Melody Goldston, Priscilla Bynum (Tony); devoted niece, Cynthia Goldston, Tabitha Reed, Sheila
Rhodes, Theodocia Bynum, Ariana Buselehner, and Patrica Ann Glover; nephews, Anthony Goldston, Jamie Goldston, Steve Reives, Rev. Paul Willis Goldston, Arthur Long, Mingo Long, Aaron Long, Jerry Bynum, Henry Van Johnson, Robbie Johnson and Cliff Johnson; and her special friends Dr. Tim and Pamela Scheetz. Online condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com Smith and Buckner are assisting the Alston family.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah And a Blessed New Year in 2024 Schedule your new year’s advance planning appointments with our specialist Lisa Wooten. “Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” 396 West St., Pittsboro, NC 27312 | 919-542-3057 | www.donaldsonfunerals.com
What is My Mother’s Name Veonia Means to ME V = Virtuous = caring for the needs of others that are less fortunate E = Encouraging = gives others support and confidence O = Open hearted = willing to listen to others and not judge N = Nurturing = helpful to others I = Inspirational = motivates others A = Affectionate = Always caring for others Moma or “Suggie” as I sometimes called you were my best friend. We always found something to laugh or talk about. You helped to shape me into the woman I am today. You stuck by me through the good and the bad times. Moma, you always made time to listen to me and encourage me to do my best. The night before you left me, we told each other we loved each other. I miss you but I know that heaven has gained an angel. Love Always, Pam (Babe) as you always called me.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@ northstatejournal.com
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
Buddy Cleo Mclaughlin
Nov.21st, 2023-Dec.15th, 2023 Buddie Cleo McLaughlin, affectionately known as “Bud” to friends and family, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 15, 2023, at UNC Hospital in Hillsborough, NC, at the age of 94. Born on November 21, 1929, Buddie was the eldest of three sons to the late Buddie McLaughlin Sr. and Virtle Marley McLaughlin. He was a graduate of Siler City High where he was a natural athlete and lover of all sports, especially
baseball. Buddie was a Sergeant in the US Army from 1948 – 1952 where he spent time between Fort Jackson and Fort Gordon. His fondest memories were of his days spent playing the outfield for the Army’s Red Devils traveling baseball team. In his later years, Bud developed a love for golf and treasured his regular outings with golfing buddies. Buddie retired from a 33-year career as the shipping manager at AJ Schnierson’s in Siler City with a reputation for his strong work ethic and meticulous attention to detail. Embracing retirement, he discovered a new talent for painting, much love and many hours were dedicated to projects at the homes of his children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Buddie was preceded by his brother, Bobbie McLaughlin. Buddie is survived by the love of his life, Louise Gaines McLaughlin, to whom he was married for 70 years. Their enduring love and support for one another is a lasting gift to their children and grandchildren. Also left to cherish his memory are his three children, Jan Brewer of
Siler City, Linda McMasters of Siler City, and Buddie Thomas “Tommy” McLaughlin of Ocean Isle, his six grandchildren: Ashley Brewer of Siler City, Mary Brewer of Salisbury, Blair Baxter of Siler City, Carla Murray of Siler City, Grant McMasters of Charlotte, and Chandler McLaughlin of Greensboro. Eight great-grandchildren: Harrison and Hadley Brewer, Ella and Nora Grace Baxter, Cole and Owen Murray, Hailey and Olivia McMasters; and brother, Daffy McLaughlin of Siler City. A graveside service to honor Buddie’s life will be held on Saturday, December 23, at 11 am immediately followed by visitation with the family at Loves Creek Baptist Church where Buddie actively served for over 70 years, as a deacon and in various other leadership roles. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Loves Creek Baptist Church at 1745 E 11th Street in Siler City, a fitting tribute to a man whose faith played such a significant role in shaping his remarkable life. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the McLaughlin family.
A7
Jason Michael Downing
March 28th, 2005-Dec.12th, 2023 Jason Michael Downing II, 18, of Burlington formerly of Bear Creek, died Tuesday, December 12, 2023. Jason was born in Durham County on March 28, 2005, to Jason Michael Downing, Sr., and Tara Messer Downing. Jason is survived by his parents, fiancée, Joan Marie Riojas of Burlington; Jason and Tara Downing, of Bear Creek; sister, Makayla Downing Lehman (Caleb) of Bear Creek; second set of parents, Greg and
Margie Riojas of Burlington; brother-in-law, Greg Riojas Jr., of Burlington; paternal grandparents, Charles and Patricia Downing, of Albany, KY; great grandmother, Rochele Downing, of Pittsboro; great uncle, Thomas Downing, of Pittsboro; grandmotherin-law, Joan Marie Riojas, of Burlington; special aunt, Nichole Wilson, of Burlington; paternal uncle, Chad Downing, of Burlington; paternal aunt, Jennifer Downing, of Burlington; and best friend, cousin, and brother, Evan Trotter, of Bear Creek. Jason was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Robert Norton Downing, and heavenly sister, Caitlin Michelle Womble. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM. The memorial service will follow at 2:00 PM, with Rev. Mamie Alley and Rev. Ray Gooch officiating. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is serving the Downing family. Online Condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com
Students, get your applications in for the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour! Each year, Central Electric sponsors two rising high school juniors or seniors on the trip of a lifetime to Washington, D.C in connection with the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. While in D.C., you’ll join 1,800 other students from across the country to meet members of Congress and learn more about American history and electric cooperatives.
CHATHAM CO UNTY Q U IT S M A R T V IR T U A L C L A S S ES New year, new you! Quitting tobacco can be challenging, but with personalized support and community, it is possible! If you live or work in Chatham County, QuitSmart classes are available for FREE to you.
The trip will be hosted in June 2024 and the deadline for all applications is Jan. 22. Scan the QR code or visit CEMCPower.com to apply or to find out more information.
C LA S S D A TES
2 weeks of nicotine replacement patches QuitSmart materials Support from other participants Personalized quit plan developed with a trained specialist
Information Session: Wed., January 3rd Class #1: Wed., January 10th Class #2: Wed., January 24th Class #3: Fri., January 26th All Sessions: 6:00-7:30 PM All sessions held virtually on Zoom
> edwardjones.com
R EGIS TR A TIO N D EA D LIN E: FR ID A Y , D EC EM B ER 2 9 TH
> edwardjones.com | Member Contact Tia Brown with SIPC the Chatham County Public Health
CEMCPower.com
Department for more information or to register:
919-774-4900 tia.brown@chathamcountync.gov | (919) 545-4857 8 0 0 - 4 4 6 - 7 7>5 2edwardjones.com | Member SIPC
—
—
128 Wilson Rd SANFORD, NC
W H A T Y O U GET (a ll FR EE)
www.chathamcountync.gov/publichealth | www.facebook.com/chathamhealth
Season’s Greetings
Season’s Greetings Here’s to all good things this holiday season. Pittsboro Chad Virgil, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® 630 East St Suite 2 919-545-5669
Governors Club Sharon A Dickens, AAMS® 50101 Governors Dr Suite 118 919-967-9968
Pittsboro Lee Shanklin, AAMS® 120 Lowes Drive Suite 107 919-545-0125
Chapel Hill Eric C Williams, AAMS® 190 Chatham Downs Dr Suite 103 919-960-6119
Pittsboro Kevin C Maley, AAMS® 984 Thompson St Suite E2 919-444-2961
Chapel Hill
Season’s Greetings
Siler City Laura Clapp, CFP®, AAMS™ 301 E Raleigh St 919-663-1051
Here’s to all good things this holiday season.
Pittsboro
L Villagrana, CFP Shari Becker Sharon AJessica Dickens, AAMS™ ®
180 Providence Rd Financial Advisor Suite 1c
984 Thompson St., Suite E2 919-491-2839
984-219-6635 50101 Governors Dr Suite 118 Here’s to all good things this Chapel holiday season. Hill, NC 27517 Pittsboro Sharon A Dickens, AAMS™ Blake Stewart 919-967-9968
Financial Advisor 114 Russet Run Suite 120 919-542-3020
50101 Governors Dr Suite 118 Chapel Hill, NC 27517 919-967-9968
edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
MKT-98
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A8 CLASSIFIED ADS REAL ESTATE LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland. com - 919-362-6999 Jy2,tfnc OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE Office, Professional space for lease, now available, in downtown Pittsboro. Call 919-612-0596 for details.” Jn15,tfnc
RENTALS, APARTMENTS Home For Rent-3 bedroom, 1 ½ bath brick ranch home located at 500 Eden Hills, Siler City, NC, for lease on a yearly basis at $1,400 per month, yard maintenance year around included. All appliances remain, no pets and no more than two adults and two children. Call Meacham Realty at 336622-1998 in Liberty for more information.;D14,21,28,J4,11,18,25c
POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919-533-6319 for more information, TDD #1-800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible A2,tfnc ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for one-bedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, onsite laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit. Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-6631877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity. Jy14,tfnc OPENING SOON: Taken Applications Oak View at Siler City - Multifamily community w/ 1-, 2-, & 3-bedroom apts. Amenities include a playground, computer center, onsite laundry facilities, community garden, and much more! Affordable housing: applicants must meet income requirements. Call (919) 283-9922 or (910) 986-4439 today to be put on the call list. Or email: leasingoakview@ partnershippm.com Credit & criminal background check required. Handicap accessible units subject to availability. Equal Housing Opportunity. Professionally managed by Partnership Property Management. N9,16,23,30,D7,14,21,28c
MISCELLANEOUS COLLARDS FOR SALE! - Nice, big, beautiful Collards-$4.00/head. Also, Cabbage and Greens. Crutchfield XRDS. 919-214-1849, 984-265-0402 D14,21,28p
MISCELLANEOUS MRS.LANE PSYCHIC READER & ADVISOR SOLVE ALL PROBLEMS SUCH AS LOVE, COURTSHIP, BUSINESS, COURT CASES AND LUCKY NUMBERS CALL 919-718-5370 D21,28,J4,11p
AUTO FOR SALE RV FOR SALE - RV for sale, Damen Daybreak 2000, 75,000 miles, runs great, good tires, good air conditioner, good generator. $10,000, Financing available, 919828-4247. Jn8,tfncx
AUCTIONS RICKY ELLINGTON AUCTIONEERS - Equipment, business, liquidation, estates, land, houses, antiques, personal property, coins, furniture, consignments, benefits, etc., NCAL #7706, 919-548-3684, 919-6633556, rickyellingtonauctions@yahoo. com, Jy6,tfnc
Full Time and Seasonal Positions Available Seeking Qualified Experienced Production Workers
Production Positions Available:
x
Experienced Band Saw Operator - Average Hourly Pay: $15.00 - $17.00
x
Production Table / Assembly Frame Builder - Average Hourly Pay: $15.00$28.00
x
Production Fabric Cutter - Average Hourly Pay: $17.00 - $31.00
Great Benefits! Dental, Health, Vision, STD, Voluntary Life, Critical Illness, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Discount, and Annual Paid Day Off. Holidays and Vacation Weeks with pay: 14 paid holidays annually Hughes Furniture 952 S. Stout Road Randleman, NC 27317 (336)498-8700 or Apply Online at: www.Hughesfurniture.com/www.Indeed.com EOE
SERVICES RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919548-4314, Sales, Services, Supplies. Serving public for 35 years. Rada Cutlery is also available. Au26,tfnc
3col x 5in. $150 PER RUN
TV ANTENNA SALE & INSTALLATION CUT OUT MONTHLY SATELLITE & CABLE BILLS 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE 919-227-6698 MAC PAGE – BRUCE MCDANIEL D21,28,c JUNK CARS PICKED UP Free of charge. Due to many months of low steel prices and unstable steel markets, we cannot pay for cars at this time. Cars, trucks, and machinery will be transported and environmentally correctly recycled at no charge. 919-542-2803. A2,tfnc LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-2583594. N9,tfnc DIGGING AND DEMO-Land improvements, mini-excavating, stump removal, mobile home and building tear-down, all digging. Call John Hayes, 919-548-0474. N9-MAR21P
ĭȦȦΈ͋̓͋З͋͋͋З͉̓͊ͅΈʯɣΈʣƔǨƢƛʿȦƢΈ̋ɣʿʋΈǑʋƢƢΈʉʿɣʯƢΗ HELP WANTED FOOD SERVICES STAFF, Pittsboro Christian Village is accepting applications for Server, Pantry Cook, and Cook. Apply in person 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday – Friday, at 1825 East St. in Pittsboro. Jy14,tfnc
Dental Insurance HIRING CNA’s
Get the dental care you deserve with dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. It can help cover the services you’re most likely to use –
ALL SHIFTS
CALL: 919-542-3151
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for appointment to complete application and interview. Pittsboro Christian Village 1825 East Street, Pittsboro, NC
Cleanings
X-rays
Fillings
Crowns
Dentures
Preventive care starts right away Helps cover over 350 services Go to any dentist you want – but save more with one in our network No deductible, no annual maximum
Call today for all the details.
APARTMENTS
Now accepting applications for 2BR, 1.5BA
Range, refrigerator, dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
844-903-1784
Call now to get this FREE
Here’s the information you requested on Dental insurance
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
Information Kit!
dental50plus.com/chatham O
O
Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-888-7994433 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds B438/B439. 6154-0120
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A9
TAKE NOTICE CREDITOR’S NOTICE Having qualified on the 13th day of June 2023, as Administrator of the Estate of Ollie Currie Taylor, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 14th day of March 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 7th day of December 2023. Janet T. Glover, Administrator of the Estate of Ollie Currie Taylor 1322 Newlands Street Siler City, NC 27344
00
.00-
Attorneys: J. Grant Brown Law Offices of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: December 14th, 21th, 28th and January 4th of 2024.
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Off.
line
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Hugh Cullman, late of 25 Speyside Circle, Pittsboro, Chatham County, North Carolina 27312, the undersigned do hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned c/o Jean Gordon Carter, McGuireWoods LLP, P.O. Box 27507, Raleigh, NC 27611, on or before the 1st 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 30th day of November, 2023. Katherine Cullman Hedges and Hugh Cullman, Jr., Co-Executors of the Estate of Hugh Cullman Attorney: Jean Gordon Carter McGuireWoods LLP P.O. Box 27507 Raleigh, NC 27611
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 16 CvD 554
The undersigned, DEBORAH MOFFITT, having qualified on the 8th day of DECEMBER ,2023, as Executrix of the Estate of LASHANDA M. LANE, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of MARCH 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 21ST Day of DECEMBER 2023. DEBORAH MOFFITT, EXECUTRIX 2301 STOCKYARD RD. STALEY, NC 27355 Run dates: D21,28,J4,11p
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plaintiff, vs. The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of BERTA SILER GUIN a/k/a BERDA SILER GUIN a/k/a BERTA SILER GUINN a/k/a BERDA SILER GUINN, et al Defendants. TO: The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of BERTA SILER GUIN a/k/a BERDA SILER GUIN a/k/a BERTA SILER GUINN a/k/a BERDA SILER GUINN and spouse, if any, which may include LINDA KAY SILER, INCOMPETENT, and spouse if any, and REGINALD Q. JOHNSON, JR. and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder A pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on December 21, 2023. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plaintiff seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the first publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after December 21, 2023, or by January 30, 2024, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought. This the 11th day of December, 2023. ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES MARK D. BARDILL/MARK B. BARDILL Attorney for Plaintiff NC Bar #12852/56782 310 W. Jones St. P. O. Box 25 Trenton, North Carolina 28585 Telephone: (252) 448-4541 Publication dates: December 21, 2023 December 28, 2023 January 4, 2023
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TODD STEPHEN MOORE, DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having heretofore qualified as Executor of the Estate of Todd Stephen Moore, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before March 13th, 2024 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of any recovery thereon. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 14th day of December, 2023. LuAnne Moore, Executor Estate of Todd Stephen Moore, Deceased c/o Ronald P. Johnson, Esq. Carruthers & Roth, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors at Law 235 North Edgeworth Street (27401) Post Office Box 540 Greensboro, North Carolina 27402 Publication dates: December 14th, 21st, 28th and January 4th, 2024.
NOTICE ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against MILDRED CROSS BISCARDI, deceased, of Norwood, PA, are notified to exhibit the same to the Resident Process Agent noted below on or before the 14th day of March, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery.
CREDITOR’S NOTICE Having qualified on the 17th day of November 2023, as Administrator of the Estate of Mary Marsh, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 28th day of February, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 22nd day of November 2023. W. Woods Doster, Administrator of the Estate of Mary Marsh 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Attorneys: Law Offices of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: November 30th, December 7th, 14th, and 21st 2023.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against James Roscoe Baldwin, deceased, of Chatham County N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Mar 2, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of Recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 30th day of November, 2023. Jamie Baldwin, Administrator 7107 Mathew St. Greenbelt, MD 20770
NOTICE
Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This11th day of December 2023. Nancy Biscardi Case Nancy Biscardi Case, Personal Representative c/o William J. Riley, Attorney at Law, Resident Process Agent PO Box 1687 Durham, NC 27702
NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No. 23E663 North Carolina Chatham County Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of HOWARD KEITH SLINKARD, deceased, of Chatham County, NC, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before March 15, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment. This the 14th day of December, 2023. Howard Kent Slinkard, Executor, c/o Beth W Bowen, Bowen Law Firm PC 590 New Waverly Pl Ste 120 Cary, NC 27518 Phone: 919-859-3224 www.bowenlawfirm.net Chatham News and Record December 14, 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Alice G. Ward, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before March 15, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 13th day of December, 2023. James P. Ward, Executor 507 Carolina Meadows Villa Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ALL PERSONS, firms, and corporations having claims against Edward Collins Childress, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before March 1st, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, JOANNE ALUKA-WHITE having qualified on the 11th day of DECEMBER 2023, as Executrix of the Estate of ROSE N. ALUKA, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of MARCH 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 14th Day of DECEMBER 2023. JOANNE ALUKA-WHITE 363 STONEY CREEK WAY CHAPEL HILL, NC 27517 Run dates: D,14,21,28,J4p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, ANDY BRENT WALDECK having qualified on the 29th day of November 2023, as Executor of the Estate of SIEGFRIED WALDECK, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of MARCH 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 7th Day of DECEMBER 2023. ANDY BRENT WALDECK, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 4641 HOPEWOOD DR. GRAHAM, NC 27253 Run dates: D7,14,21,28
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, JEFFREY S. BOGGS having qualified on the 13th day of November 2023, as Executrix of the Estate of WILLIAM JERRY BRADY, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of MARCH 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 21ST Day of DECEMBER 2023. JEFFEY S. BOGGS, EXECUTOR 5551 BONLEE-CARBONTON RD. GOLDSTON, NC 27252 Run dates: D21,28,J4,11p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Juli Anne Lawrence qualified before the Chatham County Clerk of Court on November 27, 2023, as the Executor of the Estate of EDWARD THADDEUS LAWRENCE, 420 Chimney Rock Lane, Sanford, NC 27330. This is to notify all persons, firms and corporations, as required by N.C.G.S. 28A-14-1, having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the attorney designated below on or before the 6th 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 payments to the undersigned. Payments and claims should be presented to Deirdre M. Stephenson, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 1433, Sanford, NC 27331-1045.
The following item will be considered by the Siler City Town Council on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. The hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Siler City Court Room of the Siler City Town Hall at 311 N. 2nd Ave. Legislative Hearings R23-1101 – Rezoning of a parcel from Residential 20 (R-20) to Office-Institutional/Conditional (O-I-C), parcel totaling 2.200 acres ±, addressed as 431 George Street (parcel number 51403), and being the property of Adelfo Poultry, represented by Adelfo Jaimes. The proposed item is available for review by contacting Jennifer C. Baptiste at jbaptiste@silercity.org or 919726-8626. All persons interested in the outcome of the item are invited to attend the legislative hearing and present comments, testimony, and exhibits on the above referenced item. These are separate hearings: Interested parties may submit evidence and written comments. Written comments or evidence on these applications can be submitted by email to Kimberly Pickard at kpickard@ silercity.org. Individuals desiring to speak must sign up by calling 919-726-8620 before 12:00 p.m. on or before the scheduled public hearing date. The Town of Siler City will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of materials for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Kimberly Pickard at 919-726-8620, 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344, or kpickard@ silercity.org for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Kimberly Pickard al kpickard@silercity. org o 919-726-8620 o en 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 de alojamiento para esta solicitud.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, ANN C. RADCLIFFE having qualified on the 30th day of November 2023, as Executrix of the Estate of IRENE SOLES DAVIS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of MARCH 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 7th Day of DECEMBER 2023. ANN C. RADCLIFFE 708 RED OAK DR. SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: D7,14,21,28
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 182 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Fred Waas and Leslie Gregory Waas (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Leslie Gregory Waas) to The Maitland Law Firm, Trustee(s), dated November 11, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 01828, at Page 0539 in Chatham 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 Chatham 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 Pittsboro, Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on December 28, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Chapel Hill in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 200, Governors Village Subdivision, Phase Four as shown on Plat Slides 98-229, 98230 and 98-231 [Lot 200 being specifically shown on Plat Slide 98-231], Chatham County Registry, to which reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 30154 Pharr, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. 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: 16955 - 79666
NOTICE OF HEARINGS TOWN OF SILER CITY
This the 30th of November, 2023. Lisa Kosloski, Administrator of the Estate of Edward Collins Childress, c/o Paul A. Yokabitus, Attorney, 1033 Wade Avenue, Suite 104, Raleigh, NC 27605.
FORECLOSURES
NOTICE On 12/1/23 Certificate of Need review began for Carolina Dialysis - Pittsboro Proj J-12463-23 Add 1 dialy stat. Written comments are due to the Agency by 1/3/24. A public hearing will only be scheduled if requested in writing by 1/3/24 and sent to DHSR.CON. Comments@dhhs.nc.gov or 2704 Mail Service Ctr, Raleigh, NC 27699-2704
FILINGS, from page A1 of my constituents to continue building both this District and North Carolina into the best that we can be.” In the state Senate, Democratic incumbent Natalie Murdock will face Republican Christopher Partain. Both of Chatham’s state legislative seats favor Democrats. After redistricting, Chatham County is split nearly evenly between two Congressional Districts. The western and eastern parts of the county remain in the 9th District, currently represented by Republican Richard Hudson. Hudson has both primary and general election opposition in his district. Lee County resident Troy Terazon filed in the race along with Democrat Nigel Bristow of Richmond County. Most of Pittsboro and swath across the middle of Chatham County is now represented by Democratic U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee. The redrawn 4th District also includes of all of Durham and Orange counties along with southwestern Wake County. Two Republicans, Eric Blankenburg of New Hill and Max Ganorkar of Pittsboro, are seeking their party’s nomination in the contest.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
A10 BURNS from page 1
are proving key to conservationists’ efforts to restore a longleaf pine range forming the backbone of forest ecology in the American Southeast. Volunteer teams, many working private land where participants reside or make a living, are filling service and knowledge gaps one blaze at a time. Prescribed fires, the intentional burning replicating natural fires crucial for forest health, require more hands than experts can supply. In North Carolina, the practice sometimes ends with a barbecue. “Southerners like coming together and doing things and helping each other and having some food,” Wimberley said. “Fire is not something you do by yourself.” More than 100 associations exist throughout 18 states, according to North Carolina State University researchers, and the Southeast is a hot spot for new ones. Wimberley’s Sandhills Prescribed Burn Association is considered the region’s first, and the group reports having helped up to 500 people clear land or learn how to do it themselves. The proliferation follows federal officials’ push in the past century to suppress forest fires. The policy sought to protect the expanding footprint of private homes and interrupted fire cycles that accompanied longleaf evolution, which Indigenous people and early settlers simulated through targeted burns. “Fire is medicine and it heals the land. It’s also medicine for our people,” said Courtney Steed, outreach coordinator for the Sandhills Prescribed Burn Association and a Lumbee Tribe member. “It’s putting us back in touch with our traditions.” The longleaf pine ecosystem spans just 3% of the 140,000 square miles (360,000 square kilometers) it encompassed before industrialization and urbanization. But some pockets remain, from Virginia to Texas to Florida. The system’s greenery still harbors the bobwhite quail and other declining species. The conifers are especially resistant to
A long leaf pine tree shows signs from previous controlled burns on Jesse Wimberley’s property Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, in West End.
AP PHOTO
droughts, a hazard growing more common and more severe due to climate change. A big tent of environmentalists, hunters, nonprofit groups and government agencies recently celebrated a 53% increase in the longleaf pine range since 2009, spanning an estimated 8,100 square miles (20,000 square kilometers). However, those strides fell short of their goal to hit 12,500 square miles (32,000 square kilometers). Private landowners are central to the coalition’s latest restoration effort. They hold roughly 86% of forested land in the South, according to America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative. The partnership needs thousands of new landowners to support longleaf management on their properties. The nascent burn associations are vital in their education, according to a 15year plan released in November. Federal agencies back the endeavor through activities such as invasive species removal and land management workshops. Nearly $50 million in federal grants are available for projects bolstering forest health, including prescribed fire. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has a “Longleaf Pine Initiative” partnering with burn groups like Wimberley’s. Farm bill money supports planning and planting. Personnel can help install firebreaks.
But applicants are increasingly competing for limited funding that cannot cover all the needed maintenance burns, Longleaf Pine Initiative Coordinator Matthew Vandersande said. Landowners say liability-concerned states are reluctant to send their relatively few burners onto private property and private contractors cannot meet the demand. “When it comes time to drop the match, you’re kind of on your own,” said Keith Tribble, 62, who owns a North Carolina tree farm. While state forestry services provide classes, Tribble credits burn associations for the handson experience and crews needed to confidently manage the pines. Humidity and wind speed are the biggest factors in a burn plan, according to Hitchcock Woods Superintendent Bennett Tucker, manager of a private forest in South Carolina. The pine’s oils allow it to almost always carry fire and it typically burns at a relative humidity between 25% and 50%. “With a prescribed fire, we can control the where, the when, the how and all those factors by choosing the best conditions,” Tucker said. Handheld weather meters ensure wind speed, temperature and humidity fall within limits under plans written beforehand. The prescriptions also can reduce potential liability in the event a fire escapes. Runaway fires are
rare, according to studies of federal agencies and surveys of community burn groups. Wimberley’s teams haven’t had one yet, even with 40 burns per year. Climate change is reducing the number of safe burn days. Rising temperatures cause lower relative humidity in the South and intensify periods when it’s too dry, said Jennifer Fawcett, a North Carolina State University wildland fire expert. As the severity and frequency of storms, droughts and wildfires increase, longleaf pines could become even more important for ecological resilience in the South. Deep roots anchor them during strong winds and stretch far into the ground for water. Flames enhance soil nutrients. Further, the surrounding ecosystems have few known rivals for biodiversity in the U.S. Light pours through open canopies onto the sparse floor, giving way to flora like an insect-eating plant that needs sun exposure and wet soil. Gopher tortoises feed on the native vegetation and dig up to 15-foot (4.5-meter) burrows sheltering other at-risk species. “It’s more than just planting trees,” said Lisa Lord, The Longleaf Alliance conservation programs director. “We want to take the time to restore all of the values of the forest.” A late 1920s education campaign known as the “Dixie Crusaders” harmed those in-
terdependent relationships. Federal officials turned southerners against the practice and burning fell off. Flammable needles and wiregrasses piled up to dangerous tinder levels. Wimberley’s family resisted, knowing their livelihoods depended on fire. His ancestors first applied it to “sweat” out the pine’s lucrative sap distilled into turpentine or exported as sealants. Later generations burned to shield crops. Burning looks different from the times Wimberley’s mother dragged kindling known as “fat lighter” through the forest. But public understanding of its importance is returning and the ranks are growing. “We’re all a bunch of pyromaniacs,” said Tribble, the tree farm owner. Still, Tribble burns for a reason: he values connecting with people and the land. Before his burns, brush cluttered the ground, choking water flow to parts of the property that were “bone dry.” Now water runs from more marshy areas and the squeaky call of the rarely spotted red-cockaded woodpecker resounds from mature pines. Wild turkeys appear when smoke fills the sky. Steed, the Lumbee outreach coordinator, is heartened by the rekindling of this proactive “fire culture” beyond the tribe that she says introduced it to the region. She ran through her grandfather’s scorched woods as a child, but the expanse has gone about a decade without fire. Steed plans to lead her first burn next year in Wimberley’s woods and then manage a family property she recently inherited. “It feels empowering,” Steed said of prescribed fire. “It feels like a very tangible way to connect to the past and also guide the future.” Pollard is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
(CREDIT NORTHWOOD ATHLETICS’ SOCIAL MEDIA)
Northwood’s boys’ basketball team exits the plane after arriving in Oregon for the Salem Capitol City Classic. Asheebo Rojas gives the latest on how the Chargers are doing in the Pacific Northwest.
Northwood, Drake Powell start strong in Oregon, crush North Salem Saturday, 72-46 Powell scored a team-high 25 points in the win By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record THE NORTHWOOD boys basketball team took its talents to Salem, Oregon, Saturday, winning its first game in the Capitol City Classic against North Salem, 72-46. Northwood put on an offensive clinic led by senior Drake Powell who recorded 25 points on a 73 percent shooting clip. The Chargers as a whole shot just under 55 percent from the floor, missing only nine two-point attempts all game. Powell got off to a hot start,
scoring eight points in the first quarter to push Northwood to a 19-13 lead. Most of his buckets came from mid-range jumpers created off the dribble or set up by teammates. The Chargers’ offense stayed consistent in the second quarter, scoring another 21 points for a 40-24 lead at halftime. Powell poured in another 11 points in the quarter as North Salem just didn’t have an answer for him. Northwood’s other scorers got going in the second half, especially from three. Sophomore Cam Fowler made two of the Chargers’ four second half threes and finished the night as Northwood’s only other double-digit scorer with 11 points. Nine Northwood players
Family and friends remember legendary Chatham Central baseball coach, Ronald Scott Scott passed away peacefully at his home on Dec. 8 By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record ON A RAINY afternoon in 1995, Ronald Scott, then Chatham Central’s baseball head coach, prepared to get one step closer to saying goodbye. A few hours after getting the field ready for a game against West Davidson, Scott would coach his last game on the field named in his honor. The rain cleared the sky ahead of the first pitch, and with a loud shoulder to shoulder crowd watching on, Scott’s final go at the place where he spent the last 36 years couldn’t have gone better. Chatham Central pitcher Brad Gee sent the revered coach off with a no-hitter. “That kind of sums up coach’s career,” Gary Leonard, a 1974 Chatham Central graduate and current member of the Chatham County Board of Education said. For Scott’s daughter, Rhonda Batten, that moment made her realize how much he meant to the Bear Creek community. But after Scott said goodbye
to 86 years of life on Dec. 8, that night became one of many stories told about a soul well respected and a life well lived. Family and friends gathered in the Polly O. Yow Auditorium at Chatham Central Saturday for Scott’s funeral service. Batten said many people shared kind words of remembrance with some describing him as a “legend.” “Wow, a legend,” Batten said. “It occurs to me, however, that a legend is never anything my dad set out to be. Dad did what he loved doing. He loved baseball, and he loved being with people. He wanted to fulfill God’s purpose for his life.” Scott was born on Nov. 12, 1937 in Greensboro, North Carolina to Glenn and Virginia Scott. He moved to Bear Creek at the age of eight and graduated from Bennett High School before becoming an Elon College graduate. From 1959 to 2016, Scott fulfilled many roles at Chatham Central, coaching men’s basketball, cross country and football. He also taught U.S. history and driver’s education, and he served as the school’s athletic director for 26 years. Yet, he was most known for leading the baseball program See SCOTT, page B5
scored throughout the night, and two glaring catalysts for the Chargers’ offensive efficiency were their passing and their ability to get second-chance points. The Chargers grabbed seven offensive rebounds which limited North Salem’s possessions while also allowing Northwood to get easy buckets at the rim. Northwood’s guards, especially senior Fred Whitaker, also played unselfishly all night, making the extra pass to open teammates in half-court sets. Whitaker finished the night with four assists to go along with his six points. The win put the Chargers in a quarterfinal matchup against Woodburn (Oregon) Monday night.
PJ WARD-BROWN | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Northwood’s Drake Powell throws down a dunk against North Moore earlier this season.
Takeaways from Seaforth girls’ big win over Chatham Central Seaforth continues to dominate in conference play By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record THE ROLLING Seaforth girls basketball team added another display of its prowess with a 71-21 win over Chatham Central Friday, despite its leading scorer in junior Gabby White sitting out the first quarter due to illness. Four Seaforth girls scored in double digits in the win. Sophomore Katie Leonard led the way with 17 points. Since the crushing loss to Grace Christian on Dec. 5, the Hawks have won four straight games with an average win margin of just under 39 points. Against its first three conference opponents, the average win margin is 50 points. Friday’s victory over a gritty, well-coached Chatham Central team provided more insight into what’s behind the Hawks’ hot start and how they fare in Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference. Here are some takeaways about Seaforth from its most recent win. This is a team
ASHEEBO ROJAS | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth assistant coach Antonio Hayes was impressed with the Hawks’ ability to play as a team while missing a key contributor. White is undoubtedly the focal point of Seaforth’s roster when she’s on the floor, but without her presence in the first quarter against Chatham Central, the Hawks didn’t miss a step. Led by Leonard and junior Peyton Collins, Seaforth’s production stayed up to par on both ends of the court with players continuing to make the extra pass offensively and defenders rotating on time defensively. Leonard and Collins scored 10 points each to give the
Hawks a 28-5 lead at the end of the first quarter. “It tells us that we’re a team,” Seaforth assistant Antonio Hayes said. “It’s not one girl or anything like that…It really helps when (White) is out, and we still play like that.” And even when White returned in the second quarter, in which she dropped 14 quick points, the rest of the team still produced. If anything, White’s presence opened up wide-open opportunities from three and in the paint when defenders converge on her. The Hawks made nine-three pointers (four in the second half), and Leonard ended up being the leading scorer with 17 points with three others scoring in double-digits. Its defense is just as good as its offense As efficient and well-oiled Seaforth’s offense looks, its coaches and players emphasize that it’s a defensive-minded team. Before Friday’s matchup, Chatham Central averaged 54 points per game, nearly hanging 70 on two opponents this season. Yet, scoring was the Bears hardest task against Seaforth See SEAFORTH, page B2
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B2
KILDEE FARM (919) 742-5102
936 Kildee Church Rd.
(off Hwy 64 between Ramseur and Siler City, Watch for Signs)
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Re-Opening January 8, 2024
DAK Income Tax Service
221 E. Raleigh St • Siler City • 919-742-5778
Brenda Nall
SEAFORTH from B1
Andrew Nall
Despite the 50-point loss, Chatham Central is one of who bottled them up with in- the better squads in the contense ball pressure and quick ference, boasting a 6-2 record as of Tuesday. The Bears rotations. Chatham Central likes to have taken care of inferior get the ball inside to its an- opponents in dominant fashchor in Karaleigh Dodson, ion and have hung close with but all night, Seaforth cut off some good teams. However, Seaforth is just those passing lanes and forced on a different level the guards into turnin terms of skill, size overs. and speed. Those turnovers So far, the only turned into many “It tells us two teams in the quick buckets in conference that have transition, and with that we’re a White’s size combin- team. It’s not looked good enough to slow down or ing with her speed beat the Hawks have and basketball IQ one girl or out on the break, anything like been Northwood and Southeast Alamance. Chatham Central Northwood beat just couldn’t catch that” Southeast Alamance up. in a close 38-35 batOnce again, it’s Seaforth tle on Dec. 8. not just White and Both teams seem Leonard leading assistant to have the size and the defensive effort. Antonio Hayes talent to match up Seaforth has a solid well with Seaforth core of multiple deand put some presfenders, including senior Hannah Ajayi, who sure on its stout defense. grabbed multiple steals on Yet, just like Northwood and the wing, and junior Sydney Southeast Alamance, SeaBallard who protected the forth has been in close battles and has taken a hard loss alrim down low. ready, which has helped prepare the Hawks for tougher Not many stand in its way competition down the road. In fact, Seaforth will test With the way Seaforth has fared against Mid-Carolina its talent again Wednesday 1A/2A opponents so far, it against Newton from Covingdoesn’t look like the Hawks ton, Georgia in the Cherokee will get tested much within Invitational held in Cherokee, the conference with the ex- North Carolina. The game will tip-off at 2 p.m. ception of a couple of teams.
!ĠØŹĠØł !ŎƀŅŹƛ ęĤŅę ăŬƔĤõăŰ Ãăăķĺƛ õŹĤƔĤŹĤăŰ !ØĺăŅûØŬ *) 4Ѷ ( - сф "$)" -1$ . )/ -. '*. !*- *'$ 4. 0 . 4Ѷ ( - сх "$)" -1$ . )/ -. '*. !*- *'$ 4. ) . 4Ѷ ( - сц "$)" -1$ . )/ -. '*. !*- *'$ 4. #0-. 4Ѷ ( - сч $//. *-* )/ - *- /$1 $1$)" чѷрф ѵ(ѵ Ҋ *-)$)" 3 - $. 2ҝ ./# рп ѵ(ѵ Ҋ $)"*Ѹ **&. о ' . рр ѵ(ѵ Ҋ 2 -. 1 0) р +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ 0(($&0 Ѹ $)* #' рѷтп +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ $) ) $)" сѷтп +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ 0!$.ѷ *+' *! /# /# /0т +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ )/' *" 2ҝ $5 $' - $/4 )/ - !*- /$1 $1$)" ш ѵ(ѵ Ҋ )ҁ. *!! о *)1 -. /$*). рп ѵ(ѵ Ҋ 0.$ ( ..$*) рпѷрф ѵ(ѵ Ҋ -/#-$/$. *0) /$*) 3 - $. -*"- ( с +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ /- )"/# о *) т +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ #0-. 4 * $ 'ѷ *1$ -$ 4Ѷ ( - сш $//. *-* )/ - !*- /$1 $1$)" чѷрф ѵ(ѵ Ҋ *-)$)" 3 - $. 2ҝ *)$ рп ѵ(ѵ Ҋ -$Ҋ $/ рр ѵ(ѵ Ҋ -*+Ҋ ) /$1$/$ . рсѷтп +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ .$ #$) 0$'/$)" ' .. җ Ҙ р +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ ( .ҝ 0 # $' - $/4 )/ - !*- /$1 $1$)" ш ѵ(ѵ Ҋ /-*)" о $/ рп ѵ(ѵ Ҋ "$))$)" 0$'/$)" рпѷтп ѵ(ѵ Ҋ $) ) $)" - /$ ц +ѵ(ѵ Ҋ -$ 4 $"#/ ) ,óĄ èóĄ¹ ÏêÃóĄè ĐÏóê óê Đ̹Ĉ¹ ê² óĐ̹Ą ĀĄóÅĄ èĈŞ ¬ áá óĖĄ ¬¹êĐ¹ĄĈ Qóê² ĩŴ ,ĄÏ² ĩŞ ŋ ŤèŤŴň ĀŤèŤ iÏĐĐĈªóĄó ¹êĐ¹Ą ÃóĄ ¬ĐÏĢ¹ IÏĢÏêÅ ŌńŌŴňŇŅŴŇňńŅ qÏá¹Ą ÏĐĩ ¹êĐ¹Ą ÃóĄ ¬ĐÏĢ¹ IÏĢÏêÅ ŌńŌŴŊŇŅŴņŌŊň
ÏĈÏĐ óĖĄ ģ¹ªĈÏĐ¹ Đ ģģģŤ¬Ì ĐÌ è¬ó ŤóĄÅ
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
Seaforth student selected to national student council Kyle Stinson, junior, will serve on NFHS National Student Advisory Council
“It’s awesome to be on the national level with the National Student Advisory Council.”
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record Kyle Stinson, a junior at Seaforth High School, was one of 16 high school students selected on Dec. 7 to the inaugural National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) National Student Advisory Council (NSAC). Stinson, a member of the Seaforth boys tennis team, and the other selected student leaders involved in sports or performing arts will attend a number of meetings in 2024 to discuss issues impacting students’ involvement in high school activity programs in the regions they represent. Olivia Elder from Mary Per-
Kyle Stinson sons High School in Forsyth, Georgia will join Stinson in representing section 3, which covers North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. “It’s awesome to be on the national level with the National Student Advisory Council,” Stinson said. “We went from representing a school to a county to a state to eight states now, and that’s what I’m very fortunate to have. Also, (I’m fortu-
nate) to have the support of a lot of people. Communication will be very important.” The NFHS states that the responsibilities of the NSAC are to “determine and develop actions the council will take to gather insight on the experiences of (high school students),” “identify and communicate areas of support that may be needed from the NFHS and state associations,” and “identify and communicate ideas for increasing student involvement in cocurricular activities, where needed.” Stinson currently represents region 5 on the NCHSAA Student-Athlete Advisory Council. On the national level, he said he hopes to promote good sportsmanship and effective communication in athletic operations. The NSAC will meet for the first time from Jan. 20-23 in Indianapolis.
B3
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Keira Rosenmarkle
CREDIT SEAFORTH ATHLETICS
Seaforth wrestling
CREDIT CHATHAM COUNTY SCHOOLS’ X ACCOUNT
Seaforth’s Kyle Stinson, shown here while serving in Roy Cooper’s office as part of the Governor’s Page Program earlier this year, will represent area student-athletes as part of the NFHS National Student Advisory Council.
Seaforth girls wrestling’s Keira Rosenmarkle earns athlete of the week honors for the week of Dec. 11. In the WRAL/HSOT Wrestling Tournament Saturday, Rosenmarkle (152-pound weight class) pinned three opponents in under two minutes each on the way to the championship round, where she won over Faith Bane from New Bern by decision. That win clinched Rosenmarkle’s sixth first place finish this season.
Chatham Charter School
Chatham Charter School is now accepting applications for openings in kindergarten and limited RSHQLQJV LQ ¿UVW WKURXJK HOHYHQWK JUDGH IRU WKH VFKRRO \HDU .LQGHUJDUWHQ DSSOLFDQWV PXVW EH ¿YH \HDUV RI DJH RQ RU EHIRUH $XJXVW 7KH DSSOLFDWLRQ SHULRG HQGV RQ -DQXDU\ $SSOLFDWLRQV PD\ EH VXEPLWWHG RQOLQH ZZZ FKDWKDPFKDUWHU RUJ XQGHU WKH ³$GPLVVLRQV´ OLQN DW WKH VFKRRO +DPS 6WRQH 5RDG 6LOHU &LW\ RU E\ FDOOLQJ Chatham Charter School administers all education programs, employment activities, and admissions without discrimination against any person on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, ,or other OHJDOO\ SURWHFWHG FODVVL¿FDWLRQ
La Escuela de Chatham Charter
/D (VFXHOD GH &KDWKDP &KDUWHU DKRUD HVWi WRPDQGR DSOLFDFLRQHV SDUD HVSDFLRV GHO NLQGHU \ DOJXQRV HVSDFLRV GHVGH HO SULPHU JUDGR KDVWD HO JUDGR RQFH SDUD HO DxR HVFRODU /RV QLxRV TXH DVLVWDQ DO NLQGHU GHEHQ WHQHU FLQFR DxRV GH HGDG iQWHV GHO GH DJRVWR (O SHULRGR GH DSOLFDFLyQ WHUPLQD HO GH HQHUR 3XHGH FRPSOHWDU XQD DSOLFDFLyQ DO ,QWHUQHW ZZZ FKDWKDPFKDUWHU RUJ DO HQODFH $GPLVVLRQV D OD HVFXHOD +DPS 6WRQH 5RDG 6LOHU &LW\ R SRU XQD OODPDGD La Escuela de Chatham Charter es una escuela pública, multidenominacional, y no lucrative que provide una educación de la calidad para los niños de todos las razas, los credos, una condición de discapacidad, \ ORV RULJLQHV QDFLRQDOHV
Small Class Size Individual Attention Over 30 middle and high school sports teams offered /DV FODVHV SHTXHxDV $WHQFLyQ LQGLYLGXDOL]DGD Ofrecen ৄDV GH HTXLSRV GH GHSRUWHV SDUD ORV JUDGRV
Extra Curricular Activities College Preparatory Tuition Free /DV DFWLYLGDGHV H[WUDFXUULFXODUHV /D SUHSDUDFLyQ GH XQLYHUVLGDG (QVHQDQ]D JUDWXLWD
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B4 PREP ROUNDUP
Intra-county basketball heats up By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record BOYS’ BASKETBALL Seaforth lost twice during the week, falling to Cummings in a tight 64-67 battle on Dec. 12. The Hawks lost another close game Friday against Chatham Central, 57-64. Chatham Central junior Reid Albright recorded a 23-point, 10-rebound double-double in the win. The Bears started their week with a 53-42 win over Bartlett Yancey. Albright scored 25 points and grabbed nine rebounds in the win. Chatham Central followed that with a 67-24 over Triangle Math and Science Wednesday. Junior Luke Gaines and senior Devonte Johnson led the way with 13 points each. Northwood continued its dominant start to conference play, beating Jordan-Matthews, 79-19, on Dec. 12. The Chargers won their first game of the Capitol City Classic in Salem, Oregon, beating North Salem, 72-46. Senior Drake Powell recorded 25 points and seven rebounds in the win. Jordan-Matthews lost to Cedar Ridge Wednesday, 36-48. The Jets bounced back with a 47-34 win over North Moore Friday. Chatham Charter lost to Franklin Academy Friday, 5969. Woods Charter beat River Mill, 33-32, on Dec. 11. Week of Dec. 11 Power Rankings Northwood Chatham Central Seaforth Jordan-Matthews Chatham Charter
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth wrestling suffered its first dual meet loss of the season at UNC’s Carmichael Arena, against Laney. Woods Charter Girls’ Basketball Seaforth started the week with a 52-8 win over Cummings on Dec. 12. Junior Peyton Collins led the way with 13 points in the win. The Hawks rolled to a 7121 win over Chatham Central Friday. Four Seaforth players scored in double-digits. Chatham Central won its first game of the week over Bartlett Yancey, 43-35. The Bears followed that with a 5837 win over Triangle Math and Science Wednesday. Junior Karaleigh Dodson recorded an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double against the Tigers. Northwood beat Jordan-Matthews, 58-13, on Dec. 12. Sophomore Neah Henry scored a team-high 15 points in
the victory. The Chargers followed that with a 51-36 win against Overhills Friday and a 56-38 win over Ashe County in the Central City Classic Saturday. Jordan-Matthews beat North Moore Friday, 30-24. Chatham Charter won its fourth straight game Friday with a 49-32 win over Franklin Academy. Woods Charter lost to River Mill, 34-38, on Dec. 11. Week of Dec. 11 Power Rankings Seaforth Northwood Chatham Charter Chatham Central Jordan-Matthews Woods Charter Wrestling In a tri-meet with Bartlett
Yancey and North Moore, Seaforth beat Bartlett Yancey, 6618, and North Moore, 83-0. Seaforth lost its first dual match against Laney, 20-46, in a multi-dual meet with Cardinal Gibbons and Cary at Carmichael Arena in Chapel Hill, North Carolina Saturday. The Hawks beat Cardinal Gibbons, 41-32, and Cary, 55-21. Seaforth’s Keira Rosenmarkle won first place on the girls side of the WRAL/HSOT Wrestling Tournament Saturday. She won over Faith Bane from New Bern by decision in the championship match. Northwood won two matches in a tri-meet hosted by Jordan-Matthews Wednesday, beating Providence Grove, 5424, and Jordan-Matthews, 5324. Jordan-Matthews won over Providence Grove, 36-27. Chatham Central lost to Southeast Alamance, 30-54, and Graham, 18-45, in a trimeet Wednesday. INDOOR TRACK In the JDL Holiday Invitational Saturday, Julia Hall finished 11th in the girls 1000 meter run with a time of 3:26.99. Hall also led Northwood runners in the 1600 meter run, finishing with the 13th fastest time. Northwood’s Laney Bobo finished fourth in the girls pole vault event. Jordan Wiley had the best day for the Northwood boys, finishing 26th in the 1000 meter run and 17th in the 1600 meter run. In the Asheboro Blue Comet Classic Friday, Jordan-Matthews had a few first place finishers in events against other schools. Those included Marvin Herrera (boys 1000 meter run), Christian Torres (boys 1600 meter run), Athena Dispennette (girls 500 meter dash) and Cassidy Deshazo (girls 55 meter
hurdles). SWIMMING Chatham County’s first place finishers in Wednesday’s meet hosted by Asheboro High School: Boys 200 meter medley relay: Northwood (Christian Smith Pumalpa, Jesse Sikes, Morgan Turner, JJ Bacheler), Time: 2:15.40 Boys 200 meter freestyle: Christian Smith Pumalpa (Northwood), Time: 2:35.28 Girls 200 meter individual medley: Abigail Emrich (Northwood), Time: 2:32.69 Girls 50 meter freestyle: Eva Wahieb (Seaforth), Time: 32.16 Boys 50 meter freestyle: Evan Hepburn (Seaforth), Time: 27:10 Boys 100 meter butterfly: Jesse Eskelund (Chatham Central), Time: 1:07.12 Girls 400 meter freestyle: Holly Thesing (Northwood), Time: 5:13.96 Boys 200 meter freestyle relay: Northwood (Christian Smith Pumalpa, Jesse Sikes, Morgan Turner, JJ Bacheler), Time: 2:01.06 Girls 100 meter backstroke: Abigail Emrich (Northwood), Time: 1:06.75 Boys 100 meter backstroke: Jesse Eskelund (Chatham Central), Time: 1:08.51 Boys 100 breaststroke: Evan Hepburn (Seaforth), Time: 1:04.40 Girls 400 meter freestyle relay: Seaforth (Charley Howard, Jade Brown, Sydney Haire, Alexandra Smith), Time: 5:03.79 Seaforth finished first in the following events at Thursday’s multi-dual meet with Cary Academy, Carrboro, Wake Christian and St. Davids: boys 200 yards medley relay, boys 100 butterfly (Benjamin Lajoie), boys 100 yards breaststroke (Evan Hepburn).
LearnAboutLand.com
THIS IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW IN 2024 Call Bob! Atkinson Properties Group 919-362-6999
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B5
App State slogs past Miami (Ohio) in the rain-soaked Cure Bowl The Mountaineers won six of their final seven games to finish 8-5 The Associated Press ORLANDO, Fla. — Joey Aguilar threw for 211 yards and scored on an 8-yard run in the third quarter as Appalachian State beat Miami (Ohio) 13-9 on Saturday in the rain-soaked Cure Bowl. Aguilar’s scoring run capped an 11-play, 73-yard drive and gave App State (9-5) a 13-3 lead after Michael Hughes kicked field goals of 29 and 22 yards in the first half.
SCOTT from page B1
for 36 years, winning 520 games and the 1976 2A state championship. Scott received a Distinguished Service Award from the North Carolina High School Athletic Association in 1996, and in 2008, he was inducted into the NCHSAA Hall of Fame. Forever enshrined in North Carolina sports history, Scott’s memory lives on in the many lives he impacted. As a coach, Scott was remembered for his attention to detail, instilling in his players a way of doing things that they would take beyond Chatham Central. “He was just so meticulous with detail,” Leonard, who played under Scott from 197074, said. “From his field to uniforms to how we were going or coming back from a game. I didn’t realize that as much until I played a little bit in college.” At practices, there was no standing around like other baseball teams as Scott had players in the cages while others
Miami (11-3) running back Rashad Amos answered Aguilar’s TD with a 23-yard score late in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 13-9. He finished with a career-best 180 yards on 33 carries. But the RedHawks squandered a potential chance to take the lead when backup running back Keyon Mozee fumbled on a short carry near midfield with 2:39 remaining. Miami never got the ball back. Aguilar was named the MVP. He completed 19 of 33 passes and spread the ball around, hitting seven receivers. Kaedin Robinson caught nine passes for 118 yards in the difficult con-
ditions. “We just want to stay true to ourselves,” Aguilar said. “The weather is going to be however the weather is going to be.” The rainy weather forced both teams to try to focus more on ball security and stick to the ground. The game was played as a steady rain soaked the area and pools of water formed around midfield over the bowl logo and in the end zone at FBC Mortgage Stadium on the campus of the University of Central Florida. Officials with the Cure Bowl reported an inch of rain fell before the game started and an-
other inch fell between kickoff and the final play. The conditions certainly affected play. There were 13 fumbles, with Appalachian State losing two and Miami losing three. “Ball security is at a premium, and it didn’t seem like either team managed to do it,” Miami (Ohio) coach Chuck Martin said. “Just kind of have to plod through it and make the last play.” Appalachian State rushed for 151 yards in the second half to put the game away. Anderson Castle had 119 yards on 18 carries for the Mountaineers. The Mountaineers had a 332-
227 advantage in total yards. Amos accounted for most of the RedHawks’ total. Miami kicker and Lou Groza Award winner Graham Nicholson kicked a 34-yard field goal in the first quarter. He missed his lone PAT attempt. “The elements were rough,” Appalachian State coach Shawn Clark said. “We had to make one more play than they did. And we did. Toward the end, our running game started to wear them down.” Appalachian State celebrated its victory the only way it could, by sliding through the water and mud covering the midfield logo.
were sprinting or fielding balls in the outfield. He also wrote everything down on small pieces of paper or notecards, including practice schedules, class schedules and to-do lists. Giving his all to the program, Scott’s players respected him as their leader, and at the same time, he demanded the best out of them. “He was a stickler,” John Phillips, a member of the 1976 state title team who went on to coach football and basketball at Jordan-Matthews, said. “You better address umpires with respect. You better not throw a helmet. If you strike out, you better not drop a helmet. We were expected to conduct ourselves. That doesn’t mean we didn’t have any free spirits, but we kept it in line for him.” Once players left the program, Scott transformed into a mentor and a friend. For Rick Jones, a 1971 Chatham Central graduate, baseball player and long-tenured college coach, Scott started preparing him for his future while still in
high school. Sitting behind four pitchers his junior year, Jones knew he wouldn’t get much burn on the mound, but that was also the one year that head coaches were not allowed to coach third base. “(Scott) calls me into his office, and he said, ‘you’re going to coach third base,’” Jones said. “And so, there I am out there coaching third base, and that’s when I knew I wanted to coach.” Jones went on to coach high school ball in Fayetteville, North Carolina before making stops at Ferrum College, Elon, Georgia Tech and Tulane. He served 21 seasons as the Green Wave’s head coach from 1994 to 2014. Being that Elon was his alma mater, Scott would visit Jones to watch his team play or help run his camps during his time there. “The bottom line was he was always there for me,” Jones said. “And supportive in every way. And (a) voice of reason. I got teams at Tulane that were getting ready to go to Omaha in the College World Series. I’m
talking to him on the phone about, ‘what do you think about this,’ ‘what do you think about that?’ He was a voice of reason. He had an answer, and I leaned on that.” Scott played a similar role for Leonard who took over Scott’s head coaching duties at Chatham Central in 1996. Although he didn’t come to games to not put any extra pressure on Leonard, Scott would advise him to change something every year, leading to Leonard installing a home side bullpen his first season. Scott would also make the effort to check in with Leonard on the phone or after practices about the team. “He was always looking out for everybody else,” Leonard said. “I thought that said so much for him as an individual.” Of course, showing up for others went well beyond the diamond for Scott. A faithful Christian, Scott poured himself into many other facets of the Bear Creek community, serving as a Sunday school superintendent, a Sunday
school teacher, treasurer and a member of multiple committees at Prosperity Friends Church. As “dad” to Batten and “fafa” to his granddaughters, Scott “supported them in everything,” taking the time to enjoy piano recitals and dance competitions. Christmas used to be father and daughter time when they would shop, eat and enjoy the lights. At the dinner table back at home, Scott enjoyed sharing a meal prepared by his wife, Janice. As the family goes about the first holiday season with an empty seat at the table, they won’t be able to see Scott’s goodbye gift like they did nearly 29 years ago. But, with the legacy he left behind and knowing what he found important in his life, they know that Scott received the best gift he could ever ask for. “(Scott) would want all to receive the best gift ever,” Batten said. “God’s invitation into His kingdom that is full of grace, forgiveness, love and eternal blessings.”
We are OPEN and here for you. Bowen Insurance Agency serves Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, Siler City, and the surrounding communities.
C
all Bowen Insurance Agency today for all of your insurance needs! We specialize in homeowners, auto, and life insurance. Bowen Insurance Agency is located at: 1345 Thompson Street Jennifer McLaurin
Give us a call at 919-444-2499 www.boweninsurance.com
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B6
entertainment
7(03/( 7+($75( (919)774-4155
www.templeshows.org
2023-2024 SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE NOW!
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B7
Why choose us? • Prescription ready in Minutes. • Walk In Immunization. • Most Insurances accepted. • Best Cash/discounted prices in the town. • Free Medication Adherence packs and Pill Packs.
- Free Delivery in and around Pittsboro (919) 533-6901 | 630 East St #13, Pittsboro, NC 27312 pittsboropharmacy.com
MR. HANDYMAN NEEDS MORE HANDS! NOW HIRING
Hours: Mon.–Fri. 11am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm, Closed Sun. Solution for the puzzle in last week’s edition.
B8
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
Pennsylvania is in its Taylor Swift era, her home state declares The Associated Press
*Must set up Auto Draft for 2nd Month. Offer valid through February 1st 2024.
HARRISBURG, Pa. — She’s Time magazine’s person of the year. She’s the most-played artist globally on Spotify. She’s helmed the first tour to gross more than $1 billion and then the highest-grossing concert film of all time. And now Taylor Swift can add one more accolade: A state House of Representatives resolution is recognizing 2023 as the Taylor Swift era in her home state of Pennsylvania. Lawmakers approved the resolution on Swift’s 34th birthday. The Associated Press has reached out to see if Swift was impressed with her birthday gift. Pennsylvania (Taylor’s Version) has benefited from her Midas touch over the past year, sponsors say. The frenzy for tickets to her tour prompted legislative action in the state — and elsewhere, albeit slowly — to address Ticketmaster’s shortcomings. Swift buoyed the local economy on her tour stops in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and donated proceeds to hunger relief organizations as she
blazed through. Nationally, she’s encouraged thousands of people to register to vote, particularly young people. The pure heft of the Pennsylvania native turned Miss Americana has displayed musically, culturally and economically over the past year prompted the resolution. While the resolution had its naysayers, it passed 103-100. Speaker Rep. Joanna McClinton, a Democrat from Philadelphia County, jested, “Haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate” — echoing the lyrics of Swift’s track “Shake It Off.” Most Republicans voted against the measure, as did a few Democrats. She has “transcended the role of pop star,” the resolution said. The resolution recognizes her accomplishments throughout the past year, saying she “shines as a role model of courage, self acceptance and self-determination, persisting in the face of personal and professional obstacles and challenges.” Swift grew up near West Reading, in Berks County, about 60 miles (96 kilometers)
What to stream this week: Bradley Cooper conducts, Percy Jackson quests The Associated Press NEW MOVIES TO STREAM “Maestro,” Bradley Cooper’s follow-up to “A Star Is Born” takes a loving look at the life of Leonard Bernstein and wife Felicia Montealegre. Cooper co-writes, directs and stars opposite Carey Mulligan in a portrait of the public and private side of the legendary composer and conductor. AP Film Writer Jake Coyle called it a “high wire act of a biopic” in his review, favoring the experimental black-and-white beginning over the later years, which focuses more on the increasingly complex family dynamics. The first hour, he wrote, is “like a dream of 1950s New York modernism.” The film, streaming on Netflix on Wednesday, is expected to be a big contender through awards season, especially for Mulligan’s lived-in, decades-spanning portrayal of an artist living in the shad-
ow of a genius and a wife grappling with the compromises she’s made to support him. Artificial intelligence is at the heart of “The Creator,” Gareth Edwards’ visually dazzling sci-fi epic which begins streaming on Hulu on Wednesday. John David Washington plays a retired special forces operative enlisted to help find the creator of advanced AIs after a nuclear bomb destroys downtown Los Angeles. In my review, I wrote that “even if it is a somewhat convoluted and silly mishmash of familiar tropes and sci-fi cliches, it still evokes the feeling of something fresh, something novel, something exciting to experience and behold — which is so much more than you can say about the vast majority of big budget movies these days.” NEW SERIES TO STREAM PBS is celebrating its 25year partnership with James
solutions
Beard-winning chef, cookbook author and restaurateur, Lidia Bastianich, with “25 Years with Lidia: A Culinary Jubilee.” Premiering Monday on PBS (check local listings), Lidia is joined by family and friends to reflect on her more than two decades in public television, and some of the dishes she’s made along the way. The special will also stream on PBS. org and the PBS app. Percy Jackson finds out that Greek myths aren’t just a history lesson in a new Disney+ series, based on the bestselling books by Rick Riordan. Walker Scobell (“The Adam Project”) takes the lead as the 12-yearold who goes from dealing with school bullies to battling monsters, while finding out his paternity means he’s a demigod with special abilities. Jackson sets out on a quest to clear his name. The first two episodes of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” drop Wednesday on Disney+.
northwest of Philadelphia. Part of her childhood was spent growing up on a Christmas tree farm, “where every wish comes true,” she sings in “Christmas Tree Farm.” Though she left Pennsylvania for Nashville to begin her music career as a teenager, she’s had other nods to the Commonwealth in her songs (“gold rush,” and “seven,” were surprise songs at her Pennsylvania stops on tour.) And her home state hasn’t forgotten her. A mural commemorating the artist’s youth was posted in her hometown this summer, claiming her as “Reading’s own.” Democratic Rep. Maureen Madden of Monroe County was an enthusiastic supporter of the measure and voiced appreciation for how Swift has pushed young people to become politically active. “I turn 64 years old today, and I think about who’s going to carry on our legacy. She’s not popular because she writes break-up songs,” Madden said on the House floor. “She’s popular because the largest demographic of people eligible to vote, the 18- to 24-year-old
demographic, listens to her and does what she says.” Swift’s impact as a woman, and on young women specifically, can’t be understated, lawmakers said. The resolution recognized her “singular economic and cultural influence” as demonstrating “the power of female agency, feminine ideas, feminine art and a distinctly feminine narrative.” It comes at a time where women have broken a number of glass ceilings in local politics, Democratic Rep. Jennifer O’Mara of Delaware County, said in a committee hearing for the resolution on Tuesday. The first woman was elected to serve as mayor of the nation’s sixth largest city, Philadelphia, as voters across the state chose the first woman to be Allegheny’s county executive. Women, for the first time in the Legislature, are serving as president pro tempore in the Senate and as speaker of the House. “2023 is the year for women in many ways,” O’Mara said. “And I urge you to help us make it Taylor Swift era here in Pennsylvania.”
Jazz Tales PRESENTS
A PREMIER MUSICAL EVENT TRINITY BURSEY'S CAPTIVATING NARRATION WILLBE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ANIMATED PRESENTATION, IN SYNC WITH THE ORIGINAL COMPOSITIONS OF GREGG GELB, PERFORMED LIVE BY THE HEART OF CAROLINA JAZZ ORCHESTRA.
JANUARY 5, 2024 7:30PM TEMPLE THEATRE 120 CARTHAGE ST., SANFORD, NC
SCAN CODE OR GO TO WWW.TEMPLESHOWS.ORG TO BUY TICKETS
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023
B9
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar falls and breaks hip at Los Angeles concert The Associated Press
ƌƎƋɲMɲ $VI $ɲMS M$ >I>Ȇɲ9 ɲƍƒƍƋƎ ŚŚŚȇıČĬĬùȇăĶŎŋğŀŎČ ȌıČĬĬùǗăĶŎŋğŀŎČ
$" " S>ɰM a ɰƍƋȂɰb$ 9ɰh>Vɰ>I Iɰ>94&9 >IɰS$I>V $ɰ>VIɰ GG
LOS ANGELES — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was undergoing surgery for a broken hip Saturday after falling at a concert in Los Angeles. The NBA Hall of Famer was attending a show Friday night when he was injured. Paramedics at the undisclosed venue responded and the 76-year-old was taken to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. His business partner, Deborah Morales, declined to provide a further update Saturday and referred only to a statement posted on Abdul-Jabbar’s social media. “We are all deeply appreciative of all the support for Kareem,” it said.
Abdul-Jabbar was a key player on the Los Angeles Lakers’ teams during their “Showtime” era in the 1980s, leading them to five NBA championships. He was a six-time NBA MVP. The 7-foot-2 center was the NBA’s career-scoring leader until being passed by current Laker LeBron James in February. Abdul-Jabbar owned the mark for 39 years. He starred at UCLA, when he was known as Lew Alcindor and was a three-time national player of the year under coach John Wooden. Abdul-Jabbar disclosed in 2020 that he had prostate cancer. In 2009, he said he had been diagnosed the previous year with chronic myeloid leukemia, a blood cancer.
Proudly Serving Chatham County
An Independent Agency Representing
60 Mosiac Blvd., Ste. 130, Pittsboro 919-726-3003 • HC1935.com
AP PHOTO
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar speaks during a news conference prior to an NBA basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, in Los Angeles.
B10
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, December 21, 2023