North State Journal Vol. 8, Issue 34

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 34

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WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023

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BRIEF this week

Biden heads to Israel as concerns mount that Israel-Hamas conflict will spread Tel Aviv, Israel President Joe Biden will travel to Israel on Wednesday to meet with Israeli leadership, as concerns increase that the raging Israel-Hamas war could expand into a larger regional conflict.

Biden is looking to send the strongest message yet that the U.S. is behind Israel. His Democratic administration has pledged military support, sending U.S. carriers and aid to the region. Officials have said they would ask Congress for upward of $2 billion in additional aid for both Israel and Ukraine, which is fighting Russia’s invasion.

“He is coming here at a critical moment for Israel, for the region and for the world,” Blinken said.

Repairing the roof

Work continues at the North Carolina State Capitol, which closed in May for repair work to replace copper on the roof and dome, update the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and repair deteriorating mortar and stone on the building’s exterior. Completed in 1840, the North Carolina State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark. The current work marks the third roof replacement in the Capitol’s history.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Tillis among senators backing bill to stop release of $6B to Iran Washington, D.C. North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis and several colleagues introduced the Revoke Iranian Funding Act to rescind the general licenses that enabled the release of the $6 billion to Iran and prevent the Iranian regime from accessing and using the funds currently held in Qatar.

Additionally, the bill directs Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to study all high-value Iranian assets around the world that are currently blocked by U.S. sanctions and provide that information to Congress.

“The Biden administration’s reckless decision to send $6 billion to the rogue state of Iran must be reversed,” said Tillis in a statement. “Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism and their continued financial support of Hamas enabled the cold-blooded murder of thousands of innocent Israeli civilians, including the horrific slaying of children. This legislation will ensure the United States does not provide the Iranian regime with more resources to fund terrorism and attack our allies.”

NSJ STAFF

NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Lawsuits filed following latest round of veto overrides by General Assembly

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Five more of Democratic Gov, Roy Cooper’s vetoes were overridden by the legislature on Oct. 10. As of this latest round of overrides, the General Assembly’s override success rate this session is now 19 for 19.

The governor has now issued 94 vetoes over his two terms in office. That number far surpasses the total of 35 vetoes issued by the four governors in North Carolina who had veto powers; Hunt - 0, Easley - 9, Perdue - 10, and McCrory - 6.

The vetoes successfully overridden included some Democratic support in the House, however, no Senate Democrats voted in support of the over-

rides.

The House vote came in at 77-39 on the veto override of House Bill 600, Regulatory Reform Act of 2023. The override had Democratic support from Reps. Carla Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg); Nasif Majeed (D-Mecklenburg); Garland Pierce (D-Scotland); Shelly Willingham (D-Edgecombe); and Michael Wray (D-Northampton) all voted to override the veto. The Senate overrode the veto by a vote of 30-18.

For Senate Bill 678, Clean Energy/Other Changes, the House vote was 77-37. The same five Democrats who voted to override the veto of House Bill 600 also voted to overSee OVERRIDES, page A8

Legislative Democrats face backlash for refusing to support Israel resolutions 12 House Democrats walked off the House floor as vote was taken; four Senate Democrats refused to sign Senate’s statement

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Democrats in both chambers of the General Assembly are facing backlash for failing to support a resolution and statement supporting Israel after the country suffered a terrorist attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.

Thousands of innocent Israelis, including infants, children of all ages, and the elderly have been injured or killed. Reports out of Israel indicates that at least 25 U.S. citizens were killed in the attacks.

On Oct. 10, the N.C. House passed a resolution urging Congress to support Israel “financially and otherwise for as long as it takes for Israel to bring justice in light of the unprovoked attacks on innocent Israeli civil-

Stein kicks off gubernatorial campaign at Shaw University Around 100 people attended Stein’s ‘NC Strong’ rally

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — On Oct. 10, North Carolina Attorney General and Democratic candidate for governor in 2024 Josh Stein held a campaign kick-off rally in Raleigh.

The rally was held in the C.C. Spaulding Gymnasium at Shaw University and was much smaller than that of his likely Republican opponent, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, with around a hundred peo-

ple in attendance, including media. Robinson’s kick-off was held in Alamance County in April and drew over 1,000 people despite strong storms moving through the area at the time.

The Shaw University Marching Band was featured at the onset of Stein’s event followed by welcoming remarks given by Shaw University President Dr. Paulette Dillard.

Dillard told attendees she was thrilled Stein was kicking off his campaign at her institution, which she said is “all about the democratic process.”

State Sen. Natalie Murdock (D-Durham) also gave some remarks before introducing Gov.

Roy Cooper. Prior to serving in the Senate, Murdock worked under Stein at the N.C. Department of Justice as a deputy director of communications.

“It is my pleasure to stand here today and support our future governor, Josh Stein,” Murdock said. She later went on to say things are “really, really rough in Raleigh” and that the state needs to elect a governor who will keep his veto pen “on the ready.”

Murdock turned the microphone over to Cooper, who spoke for around eight minutes and billed Stein as an example of a leader with a track record of protecting consumers. The governor also mentioned Stein’s activities

ians.”

The resolution passed unanimously 104-0, but with 12 Democrats walking out on the vote including Reps. John Autry (Mecklenburg), Amber Baker (Forsyth), Gloristine Brown (Pitt) Kanika Brown (Forsyth), Maria Cervania (Wake), Terence Everitt (Wake), Pricey Harrison (Guilford), Nasif Majeed (Mecklenburg), Marcia Morey (Durham), Renee Price (Orange), Diamond Staton-Williams (Cabarrus), and Julie von Haefen (Wake).

Rep. Erin Paré, the primary sponsor of the House resolution, slammed the Democrats who left the floor.

“It is unconscionable to me that Democrats have become so extreme that they walked out and refused to vote on a resolution condemning the slaughtering of children and raping of women,” said Paré. “Their shameful actions have sent a terrible message to not only the people of Israel, but all of America’s allies across the world.”

Two of the House Democrats See ISRAEL, page A2

as attorney general in security opioid settlements and battling scammers and robocallers.

Just this past August, Stein’s campaign was found to have lost over $50,000 from a “sophisticated scam” that targeted a campaign vendor.

“I’ve thought about it a lot. We need a person with integrity and grit,” said Cooper in his remarks.

“We need a person who is ready to work hard to get things done and put bipartisan coalitions together to make things happen.”

Cooper introduced Stein as someone who will make North See STEIN, page A2

$2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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10.18.23 #406

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THE WORD: AN INVISIBLE HAND AT THE HELM

How often do we see people who have toiled for years, only to find their efforts in vain?

They’re busy constructing something dear to them, whether it’s a physical structure or a mental creation, without realizing it stands on unstable ground or at the brink of a hidden catastrophe!

A dedicated teacher pours their utmost attention into a promising young student, only to have their hopes dashed by a sudden illness that takes the student away!

A parent showers their deepest love, care, time, and resources on raising their child.

Yet, in the end, the wayward path their child takes feels worse than death to the parent.

Yes, many times, our dearest hopes, well-thought-out plans, and joyful ambitions are thwarted. The bright dreams of success become dimmed by misfortune, calamity, ruin, and finally, the grave. One roll of the dice, and the grand game of life slips through our fingers!

But it’s not the same with the everlasting wealth — “the hope which is laid up for you in heaven” — a happiness beyond the whims of luck, unbreakable bonds. “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for

PUBLIC DOMAIN

: “The Gamblers” (circa 1623) by Hendrick ter Brugghen is a painting in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art

ever.” Psalm 73:26 John MacDuff (1818–1895) was a Scottish Presbyterian minister and author known for his devotional writings and hymns. He served as a pastor in various congregations in Scotland during the 19th

century. One of his most wellknown works is the devotional book titled “The Faithful Promiser,” which contains a collection of daily readings and reflections on the promises of God. His works are now in the public domain. This passage has been edited.

STEIN from page 1

Carolina “stronger than ever.”

Stein took the stage and began by thanking his family and his supporters, singling out N.C. Association of Educators President Tamika Walker Kelly. Overall, Stein’s remarks lasted around 18 minutes, covering a wide range of topics from Medicaid Expansion to raising teacher pay to “the national average.”

Stein talked about growing up in North Carolina from the “remarkable natural beauty from the Blue Ridge Mountains” and “to some of the finest educational institutions in the world, including Shaw University.”

Stein said the state is their home and that he and his wife have talked about their kids and their futures.

“And I know we are not the only ones who pray that our children and grandchildren also want to call it home,” said Stein.

“But our home is under assault.

Right-wing politicians are taking a sledgehammer to its foundation.”

“Just look at what the Republican supermajority legislature did this year,” Stein said. “They held Medicaid Expansion hostage for months for casinos; squandering billions of dollars and putting people’s lives at risk. They passed dangerous new restrictions on a woman’s reproductive freedom, stripping them of making their own decisions about their own bodies, their own feelings, and their own futures.”

Stein took aim at the historic state expansion of school choice to all families in the state by claiming Republicans at the legislature “defunded our schools” and disrespected educators.

“And this month, they’re right back in doing what they did during the past 12 years - gerrymandering legislative districts to

AP DILLON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Attorney General Josh Stein speaks to supporters at his “NC Strong” gubernatorial campaign kick-off at Shaw University in Raleigh on Oct. 10, 2023. cling to power,” said Stein. “But I’ve got news. Next year, you and I are going to stop them because good organizing can beat a bad gerrymander.”

“Know this: I will always stand up against the special interests and for the people of North Carolina,” Stein said after describing some of his leadership style and accomplishments as attorney general such as attempting to reduce the “16,000” untested rape kits that were “sitting on a shelf with the state” that he said he inherited when took office.

When Stein took office in 2017, the backlog was over 15,000 and gave North Carolina the dubious distinction of being number one in the country for untested kits. Five years later, as of March

2023, the dashboard tracking the rape kit backlog stood at 16,223.

Turning to voting, Stein said he fought for voting rights while Republicans gerrymandered and “slashed my budget by $10 million dollars.”

“Republicans at the General Assembly engaged in partisan gerrymandering to discriminate against voters based on their political beliefs,” said Stein. “And in the words of the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals, they targeted black voters with almost surgical precision.”

Stein then turned his focus to attacking one of his opponents: Mark Robinson.

“He disabused the 2020 election results,” said Stein. “I say that is a big dangerous lie and that

Mark Robinson is wrong.”

He also accused Robinson of calling school teachers “wicked people” and that Robinson calls “LGBT folks filth.” Both of those incidents were taken from church events and posted on social media by left-leaning organizations.

Former N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice Michael Morgan, Stein’s only announced primary opponent, issued a statement on X about Stein’s event, calling it a “manufactured gathering.”

“Josh Stein, welcome to Southeast Raleigh,” Morgan wrote. “As my 2024 primary election opponent for Governor of North Carolina finds his way to Shaw University today for an orchestrated, manufactured gathering dis-

guised as a “rally” on the HBCU’s campus, others join me in shaking our heads over this made-forTV and social media exhibition.”

“The Stein camp has developed this pop-up mirage in an obvious response to my recently-announced candidacy in order to try to create an impression that I don’t have sufficient support in my own community to win this race,” wrote Morgan. “However, Southeast Raleigh has been my home for 39 years: living here, worshipping here, shopping here, volunteering here, serving here.”

Morgan continued, taking aim at Stein’s authenticity and his “wealthy war chest.”

As of August, Stein’s campaign had over $8.23 million cash on hand.

Eight NC schools named 2023 National Blue Ribbon schools

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The U.S. Department of Education has released its list of 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools with eight North Carolina public schools receiving the award.

Last year, five schools in North Carolina received the award.

“The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award have set a national example for what it means to Raise the Bar in education,” U.S. Educa-

tion Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement.

A total of 353 schools nationwide were recognized this year in the areas of overall academic performance or closing achievement gaps. This year’s winners from North Carolina were honored as “Exemplary High Performing Schools.”

The North Carolina schools winning the award this year include Beaufort County Early College High School, Beaufort County Schools; Fairview Elementary School, Buncombe

County Schools; Greensboro Academy, Greensboro; Heyward C Bellamy Elementary School, New Hanover County Schools; Highland School of Technology, Gaston County Schools, Jay M. Robinson Middle School, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools; Lucama Elementary School, Wilson County Schools; and R. Odell Elementary School, Cabarrus County Schools.

“These schools are a shining example of the incredible things North Carolina’s public schools are capable of accomplishing,”

said State Superintendent Catherine Truitt in a statement. “I’m so proud of the students, teachers, staff members, and leadership of each of these schools for their hard work over the past year.”

Started in 1982, The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program turned 40 this year and has given out 10,000 awards to over 9,000 schools during that time.

Since the program began, a total of 138 public schools in North Carolina have been recognized as Blue Ribbon schools.

“These schools are a shining example of the incredible things North Carolina’s public schools are capable of accomplishing.”

State Superintendent Catherine Truitt

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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House Oversight Committee questions DMV chief over driver’s license contract Questions also raised about driver’s license renewal changes that shouldn’t have been in state budget

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — At an Oct. 11 hearing, the House Oversight and Reform Committee questioned Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Commissioner Wayne Goodwin over a provision in the state budget on driver’s license renewals and the selection of a Canadian company to produce the licenses. Deputy Commissioner Portia Manley also appeared before the committee. Prior to being named head of the DMV in January 2022, Goodwin was the North Carolina Democratic Party Chairman and is also a former state legislator and insurance commissioner.

“One purpose of oversight is to examine if department officials are complying with the law,” committee co-chair Rep. Jake Johnson (R-Polk) said in an opening statement. “We have to wonder whether this contract is even valid if the company cannot produce a legal state driver’s license. The speed and lack of oversight in awarding this contract also raise concerns related to the security of North Carolinians’ personally identifiable information.”

The vendor chosen to produce the state’s driver’s licenses is CBN Technologies. CBN stands for Canada Bank Note and the company is based in Canada but also has offices in other locations.

Goodwin referred to Session Law 2021-134 (H.B. 650) multiple times in his testimony in

defense of the vendor selection process. That law allows the DMV to expedite certain projects by exempting them from the state’s Department of Information and Technology (DIT) oversight requirements.

During the hearing, Goodwin indicated that there were very few vendors who did driver’s licenses or ID card printing and that most were “global” and most had offices in the United States.

The committee members asked why CBN Secure Technologies was selected, specifically asking Goodwin to explain why the DMV exempted the project from DIT procurement oversight and did not use a competitive bidding process.

Rep. Shelly Willingham (D-Edgecombe) spent his time questioning Goodwin about industry standards in printing driver’s licenses, whether the current contracted company was American or foreign, and about the new vendor allegedly only being able to print in black and white versus color.

Goodwin said his division sent a request to N.C. Department of Transportation leadership about changing the state law requiring color photos. That request did not make it to lawmakers, who would have to sign off on such a change.

In his answer on the black and white printing, Goodwin claimed that half of countries around the world have “gone to monochromatic” printing for better facial recognition purposes. He said CBN can do color but prefers not to because it “goes against industry standards,” which is apparently grayscale.

Goodwin mentioned the military uses grayscale, which promoted questions from Rep. Al-

“If there’s not partitions in place or firewalls in place to segregate our data and keep it safe from outside access, then essentially the contracts no good for security purposes because any one of the employees in a foreign nation can access that information.”

Rep. Allen Chesser (R-Nash) len Chesser (R-Nash), who held up his military ID printed in color.

Chesser told Goodwin he wanted to know whether or not data was going to be firewalled while citing concerns about the data being accessed by countries that are not our allies like China. Goodwin responded that they were “following ISO standards.”

ISO stands for International Standards Organization, an “an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 169 national standards bodies,” that creates global requirements for items like identification documents.

When it came to data, Both Manley and Goodwin again said their agency was following agency guidelines.

In an interview with North State Journal after the hearing, Chesser said he wasn’t satisfied and that “the answer we essentially got from them was I don’t know,” and that “we’ll follow up.”

Johnson also indicated to North State Journal that the committee wasn’t satisfied and another hearing on both matters may occur.

“It wasn’t necessarily the printing with the color and the grayscale, the simple fact was they were trying to say that we use black and white currently and we don’t. We use color. I just wanted to provide clarity,” Chesser said about Goodwin’s testimony over the driver’s license vendor selection.

Chesser said he was concerned that Goodwin “was simply saying what he was told” and that his fear is that a substantial vetting process for personally identifiable information isn’t part of the equation.

“My concern is similar to what happened when the federal government withdrew from Google for hosting federal data,” said Chesser. “If there’s not partitions in place or firewalls in place to segregate our data and keep it safe from outside access, then essentially the contracts no good for security purposes because any one of the employees in a foreign nation can access that information.”

“And then what recourse does the State of North Carolina have to protect the citizens of North Carolina from that access being leaked in Europe or Canada or one of the other,” Chesser added. “According to him, 70 plus nations that could potentially have access to our information.”

Goodwin was also asked about a legislative budget request that allegedly came from his office in February extending the eight-year license renewal period to 16 years for individuals ages 18 to 66.

“The commissioner has provided little to back up his statements that 16-year license re-

NC Dept. of Agriculture announces availability of Farmland Preservation grants

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler has announced applications for farmland preservation grants are now open. The application process closes on Dec. 18 at 5:00 p.m.

“Investments in farmland preservation are more important than ever,” said Troxler. “In the face of population growth

and development pressure, these grants are critical in preserving North Carolina’s agricultural economy and ensuring food security for future generations.”

The grants are funded through the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund.

Preserving family farms is one of Troxler’s top priorities.

In March 2005, he delivered his “Agricultural Development and

Farmland Preservation Strategy” to the General Assembly. During that legislative session, the General Assembly passed House Bill 607 establishing the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund.

County governments and conservation nonprofit groups can also apply for funding for a new option called Local Agricultural Growth Zones (AGZ) aimed at enhancing local investments in agricultural conservation ease-

ments through matching funds from the state.

Local AGZs are areas of concentrated agricultural conservation easements. By protecting AGZ easements from development, a “buffer” can be created between urban and agricultural areas. Per Troxler’s grant announcement citing research by the American Farmland Trust, “large blocks of permanently protected land are one of the most effective sprawl manage-

OVERRIDES from page 1

ride the veto of Senate Bill 678.

The Senate’s vote came in at 3019.

Senate Bill 512, Greater Accountability for Boards/Commissions. The House vote was 72-44 and the Senate 30-19.

“Gov. Cooper has made it clear that he wants full control of appointments to state boards and commissions,” Sen. Warren Daniel (R-Burke) said in a statement on the veto override of Senate Bill 512. “His desire to handpick appointees that will do his bidding serves his party, not North Carolinians.”

Warren also said the “knowledge and expertise of the General Assembly and members of the executive branch should be utilized, not stifled.”

Though Gov. Cooper was on an economic development trip to Japan, he announced he was suing over Senate Bill 512.

“This law is a blatantly unconstitutional legislative power grab,” Cooper said in a press release.

“Over the years, the North Carolina Supreme Court has repeatedly held in bipartisan decisions that the legislature cannot seize executive power like this no matter what political parties control which offices. The efforts of Republican legislators to destroy the checks and balances in our constitution are bad for people and bad for our democracy.”

NSJ FILE PHOTO

The North Carolina state seal outside of the legislative building in Raleigh is shown.

Representing Cooper are Eric M. David, Daniel F. E. Smith, and Amanda S. Hawkins, who are attorneys with Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard.

Cooper’s 55-page lawsuit

makes multiple accusations that Senate Bill 512 “facially” violates the Separation of Powers Clause and the Faithful Execution Clause of the state constitution and is seeking a permanent injunction

of the law.

The House and Senate override votes for both Senate Bill 747, Election Law Changes, and Senate Bill 749, No Partisan Advantage in Elections, were identical to

newals do not comply with federal REAL ID requirements,” co-chair Rep. Harry Warren (R-Rowan) said ahead of the hearing. “To the extent that he is correct, it is not clear why it took until after he made the legislative request to learn this. We want to clear up the confusion.”

The renewal provision made it into the finalized budget but since then Goodwin has indicated the extension is in violation of federal REAL ID requirements. As a result, technical corrections will have to be made to the budget.

Congress established the Real ID Act in 2005 to make IDs like driver’s licenses and other ID cards acceptable for accessing federal facilities and accepted by the Transportation Safety Administration at airports. Implementation has been delayed multiple times since its passage with 2025 as the next deadline for REAL ID to take effect.

Warren asked Goodwin when the DMV learned that the longer renewal period didn’t meet REAL ID requirements to which Goodwin responded it was sometime in March and that the provision had been removed from a related agency bill in April. Goodwin also said his agency did not request it be included in the budget.

Goodwin was pressed about why legislators were not made aware if the issue prior to the budget becoming law by Rep. Jeff McNeely (R-Iredell).

McNeely said it looked like a lack of communication to the budget chairs was perhaps part of the problem and would like to see Goodwin correct that in the future. Goodwin apologized for “miscommunication” with lawmakers and agreed that going forward he would notify as many people as possible.

ment tools.”

When applying, AGZ applications must include a cash contribution for agricultural conservation easement purchase “equal to or greater than the ADFP Trust Fund grant request” for agricultural conservation easement purchase. Those who qualify can request up to $2 million per Local AGZ application.

Per Troxler’s announcement, landowners interested in preserving their farms through conservation easements must work with county governments or land trusts to apply for grant funds.

Grant applications as well as rules and information packets are available online at www. ncadfp.org/Cycle17.htm.

that of Senate Bill 512.

“North Carolina voters deserve to know their elections are safe and secure,” House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) said in a statement of the override on Senate Bill 747. “Thankfully they can have that confidence now that we have overridden the Governor’s veto of this commonsense elections bill.”

Following the override of Senate Bill 747, the NC Democratic Party (NCDP) and the Democratic National Committee filed a lawsuit. In a statement, NCDP Chair Anderson Clayton said in part that “North Carolina Republicans are launching an all out attack on democracy itself,” and calling the bill “election suppression.”

Former Hillary Clinton campaign attorney Marc Elias also announced he was suing over Senate Bill 747. In a press statement, Elias said he was filing the lawsuit filed on behalf of three Democrat-tied advocacy organizations; Voto Latino, the Watauga County Voting Rights Task Force, and Down Home North Carolina.

“The plaintiffs allege that the Undeliverable Mail Provision violates the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment and places an undue burden on the right to vote in violation of the First and 14th Amendments,” according to Elias’ statement. “The plaintiffs request that the court declare the provision unconstitutional and prevent its enforcement.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

COLUMN

NEWT GINGRICH

The gathering storm The threat from China has not dissipated in the slightest while our defense spending and industry remain basically status quo as threats multiply.

RUSSIA HAS BEEN ATTACKING Ukraine for 20 months now. Iran, through its terrorism partner Hamas, attacked Israel last weekend. China has been threatening to attack Taiwan.

The world is beginning to look a lot like the 1930s, when Japan attacked and overran much of China, and Nazi Germany and its then-ally the Soviet Union attacked and overran Poland and the Baltic States.

Former President George W. Bush has been ridiculed for describing an “Axis of Evil.” But at this point, the axis of Russia, Iran and China seems to be acting in greater unison than the axis of Germany and Japan acted during World War II. And we have no reason to assume today’s axis will turn on itself as when Hitler attacked the Soviet Union in June 1941.

No American military forces are currently fighting in Ukraine, none will surely be fighting in Israel, and no forces are currently stationed in Taiwan. But then there were no American military forces fighting in Asia or Europe in June 1941.

Soon, there would be.

And conceivably, they could be again sometime soon. As military historian Eliot Cohen points out, no one lately has a good record of military predictions.

What is clear is that the United States will be called on to provide large numbers of conventional weapons to Ukraine and Israel for some unspecified time. This could be a strain for a nation concentrating in recent decades on producing high-tech weapons in small numbers.

In prolonged on-the-ground fighting, however, numbers matter. Production of artillery shells (“munitions”) in adequate numbers was the issue that ousted one British prime minister and installed David Lloyd George in World War I (see Andrew Roberts’ biography of Lord Northcliffe).

And President Franklin Roosevelt’s foresighted enlistment of top corporation executives made America the world’s “arsenal of democracy” in World War II (see Arthur Herman’s “Freedom’s Forge”).

Those were the days when America was capable of building big things, in large numbers — a capacity, as liberal writers Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson have lamented, we have lost.

One reason is that our leaders lack Roosevelt’s capacity to pick men (and women) good at getting things done, which made big government look misleadingly easy for the next few generations of Americans. Roosevelt picked the leaders who built the Pentagon in 15 months (see

Steve Vogel’s “The Pentagon”), and the generals and admirals who assembled from almost nothing the 16-million-men military (see Eric Larrabee’s “Commander in Chief” that produced the “absolute victory” that Roosevelt promised on Dec. 8, 1941).

Currently, American defense stockpiles are already strained in supplying arms and ammunition to Ukraine, and supplying Israel will strain them more. “The threat from China has not dissipated in the slightest while our defense spending and industry remain basically status quo as threats multiply,” former Pentagon official Elbridge Colby wrote. “We should have been on a national mobilization footing for our defense industry a long time ago.”

That would require a major shift in budget priorities, away from things such as the Biden administration’s $400 billion forgiveness of college loan debt (with benefits tilted toward above-averageincome borrowers). Moreover, thanks to inf lation stoked by Trump and Biden COVID-era stimulus spending, government interest costs have skyrocketed. And will American armed forces, currently failing to meet recruitment goals, need to be expanded?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ordering a vigorous response to Hamas but in time will have to answer why his government was apparently so unprepared for the Oct. 7 attacks. And in a forthright statement on Oct. 10, President Joe Biden said unambiguously that “we’re with Israel” and “we will make sure Israel has what it needs.” But in time, he may need to answer why he and his appointees and colleagues in the Obama administration tilted U.S. policy toward Hamas’ patron Iran, to the point of releasing $6 billion to Iran in September and appointing an Iranian sympathizer and possible spy to a national security post.

Meanwhile, America is bitterly split on partisan lines, with a narrowly Republican House (which nonsensically ousted its speaker), a narrowly Democratic Senate, and a Democratic president who, like Woodrow Wilson and unlike Franklin Roosevelt, has not taken Republicans into his councils as the storms of war gather.

Stormy weather ahead.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics.

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Our public schools are a national disaster

Three essential components to an enriching education are discipline in the classroom, high expectations and a classical curriculum.

PERHAPS WHAT’S MOST DISTRESSING about the latest collapse in high school test scores is that no one seems to be very distressed.

You’ve probably heard the news that ACT scores have fallen for the sixth straight year. Our high school kids are less equipped for a job or college than at any time in three decades.

Why isn’t anyone in Washington or anyone in our $800 billion education bureaucracy sounding the alarm and declaring this a national emergency? It certainly puts our national security, our technological superiority and our economic prosperity in grave danger.

Instead of outrage, it is almost as if Americans have become anesthetized to bad news about our kids.

One theory is that Americans feel about their local schools as they do toward Congress: They love their own representative but think the rest of the members are corrupt and incompetent.

Yes, there are some excellent public schools, and yes, there are thousands of great teachers. But I live in Montgomery County, Maryland, which is one of the wealthiest counties in the country, and we had to pull our kids out of the public schools because they were so bad — and because they shut down during COVID. I shudder to think what’s going on in the Baltimore schools down the road.

Exactly 40 years ago, the National Commission on Excellence in Education issued its findings on the state of the schools in its 1983 report entitled “A Nation at Risk.” Here was the grim conclusion: “If an unfriendly foreign power had attempted to impose on America the mediocre educational performance that exists today, we might well have viewed it as an act of war.”

The nation never paid attention. If you think I’m blowing one bad report out of proportions, the National Assessment of Educational Progress report that came out earlier this year found similarly dismal student performance in the public schools.

Reading and math proficiency collapsed over the past four years in part because of the teachers unions’ insistence that public school stay closed during COVID — a national act of child abuse.

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The Left obsesses about income inequality and the gap between rich and poor. Yet, they are so captive to the teachers unions that they do nothing about what is arguably the most regressive policy in America: our failing public school system. The decline in test scores is only half the story. The other part of the story is that the biggest declines in learning and achievement are among the poorer families.

I’m the furthest thing from an education expert, but I have had five kids. It’s pretty clear that three essential components to an enriching education are discipline in the classroom, high expectations and a classical curriculum. This isn’t that complicated. It’s not like solving a Rubik’s Cube.

Today, most public schools fail all three of these standards.

California recently announced it is going to make climate change a standard part of the school curriculum. Really? They are going to scare the bejesus out of kids with a propaganda campaign telling them the world is coming to an end. Why don’t they just try phonics so kids can read?

The school blob’s pitiful response to this abject failure to teach is to call for more money. We’ve tried that for 40 years. Per student spending in the public schools after adjusting for inf lation is up 50% in 30 years, which almost entirely inversely correlates with the continual test score slide.

The one glimmer of hope is the burgeoning school choice movement in America, which allows the dollars to follow the students and parents to choose the best schools for their kids — public, private, Christian, Jewish, or whatever works.

Ten states this year have expanded school choice.

Meanwhile, the teachers unions argue with a straight face that school vouchers would hurt the public schools. Have they seen the test scores? How could they possibly perform worse?

Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation and an economist with FreedomWorks. His latest book is “Govilla: How the Relentless Growth of Government Is Devouring Our Economy.”

Defeating “pure, unadulterated evil” requires the necessary — not the reasonable PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN had appropriately strong words about Hamas in his Oct. 10 address to the nation. He said we were confronted with “pure, unadulterated evil.” He described Hamas’s savage attack on civilians — men, women, children, and babies — as “an act of sheer evil.”

In one of the best speeches of his presidency, Biden described the horrors being perpetrated on people in Israel — including Americans, Germans, French, Thai, and other nationalities.

President Biden described: “Stomachturning reports of — babies being killed. Entire families slain. Young people massacred while attending a musical festival to celebrate peace — to celebrate peace. Women raped, assaulted, paraded as trophies…. Infants in their mothers’ arms, grandparents in wheelchairs, Holocaust survivors abducted and held hostage — hostages whom Hamas has now threatened to execute in violation of every code of human morality.”

Biden rightfully called these acts “abhorrent.”

He charged that “Hamas offers nothing but terror and bloodshed with no regard to who pays the price.”

Finally President Biden pledged “let there be no doubt: The United States has Israel’s back.”

It was a stirring, emotional, powerful speech.

Now comes the hard part.

Destroying Hamas, which I called for in a recent article, will be a painful, bloody, brutal business.

Regardless of current reports of Iran’s supposed surprise about the attack, Hamas and its Iranian sponsor have been planning for this war inside Gaza for years. They will apply the same ingenuity and ruthlessness to maximize Israeli casualties that they just displayed in their amazingly broad surprise offensive.

Hamas will also maneuver to maximize civilian casualties. Hamas wants children and women killed by Israeli bombs and wounded by Israeli soldiers. They will use their allies in the news media to begin a drumbeat that Israel is being too harsh.

There are already anti-Semitic and proHamas demonstrations on college campuses and even in many of our major cities.

The horrors of 40 Israeli babies killed will shortly be erased by the wave of sympathy for the suffering of the Palestinian people.

Unfortunately, the atrocities and deliberate savagery of Hamas will become a distant memory to the political-media elite.

Mark my words: Just as they have in the past, the leftwing movement will return to referring to Hamas terrorists as “freedom fighters” and “defenders of their neighborhoods.”

Israel is likely already being told by leaders in the West that it must have “a proportionate response.”

What is a proportionate response to slaughtering babies, raping women, killing Holocaust survivors, and dragging bodies in the street to publicly spit on them? The anti-Israel propagandists will not have an answer. But they won’t need one.

Somehow the “pure, unadulterated evil” President Biden so clearly defined will fade from the dialogue. (The State Department is already hard at work to trap Israel into proportionate and appropriate responses).

This is a unique moment when evil can be destroyed.

However, destroying Hamas will require doing what is necessary — not what is reasonable. You win wars by overwhelming your enemy with asymmetric force — not meeting them with proportionate force.

What is necessary may include full military occupation of Gaza. This is a war, and it should be treated as an occupied warzone. This means fully securing the area and deploying the best surveillance and control apparatus Israel can muster in Gaza.

What is necessary may require Israel aggressively routing out Hamas in Gaza — including people who have been supporting and celebrating their evil and terror.

What is necessary will take months not days — and it must be methodically prosecuted.

Importantly, destroying Hamas would liberate the Palestinian people whose lives have been limited and impoverished by a corrupt terror dictatorship. The people of Gaza would have a dramatically better future if Hamas ceased to exist.

Every time someone tells you we have had enough violence, and that Israel should “be reasonable,” quote President Biden to them.

Pure, unadulterated evil must be destroyed — not negotiated with or offered compromise.

This is the real challenge — and the only road to safety in Israel and Gaza.

It will also signal to Hezbollah and Iran that more attacks will lead to similar treatment for their regimes.

The world will be much safer once civilization proves it has the courage and discipline to utterly destroy evil and defend and protect the innocent.

Only then can we return focus to improving diplomatic relations with and for our allies in the Middle East.

Right now, we must do what is necessary — not what is reasonable.

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Murphy to Manteo

Taste NC’s best at the State Fair Organizers of the N.C. State Fair always ensure that the annual festivities are chock full of Got to Be NC producers, and this year, they say “it’s everything you’ve come to know and love about the traditional tented space outside of the Scott Building…but on a *massive* scale! From local products to farmer spotlights, a cooking demonstration stage to pop-up competitions, the Got to Be NC Pavilion’s going to be a highlight of your visit to the Fair.” Not only can you learn how North Carolina’s agricultural diversity impacts your life every day, but you can also taste and purchase products developed by your neighbors right here in North Carolina. The Pavilion is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.

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Jones & Blount Cooper appoints former Wake County superintendent to State Board of Education

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By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

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RALEIGH — Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper made several commission and boards appointments on Oct. 9, including that of former Wake County Public Schools Superintendent Catty Moore as an at-large member to the State Board of Education.

“I’m glad to appoint more Hispanic and Latino leaders to my boards and commissions, including Catty Moore to the North Carolina State Board of Education and the new members of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Hispanic and Latino Affairs,” Cooper said in a press release on the appointments.

“We’re going to continue to uplift diversity in all of our state

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1. Romesburg Family Farm goat milk products, Ruffin 2. America's Best Nut Co., Rocky Mount 3. Bobbees Honey, Louisburg 4. Carolina Pickle Co., Chinquapin 5. Coddle Creek Farms nut butters, Mooresville 6. The Country Squire Restaurant. Inn and Winery, Duplin Co. 7. JOY Filled Foods, Goldsoro 8. North Carolina Fudge, Rougemont 9. Spicer's Sauces, Denton 10. Tidewater Grain, Oriental 11. Cheerwine, Salisbury 12. Rock of Ages Winery, Roxboro 13. Roland's Dry Rub, Morganton

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Banner Elk one of top ten spots for fall foliage seekers Avery County The Town of Banner Elk, just west of Boone and Blowing Rock, was listed as one of travel website Trips to Discover’s 10 Underrated Places for Fall Foliage.

The site noted the numerous activities such as skiing, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, fishing and more that the town and surrounding areas have to offer.

According to a report from Appalachian State University, fall color tourism brings in each year a minimum of $1 billion to North Carolina’s economy between September and November. Leaves typically reach their peak color around the third or fourth weekend in October, Banner Elk said on its website. The best vantage points around Banner Elk include Grandfather Mountain, Wildcat Lake and the Emerald Outback trail system.

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Teen pleads guilty in golf cart DWI death Gaston County Derek Helms, 19, was charged with involuntary manslaughter, DWI, felony serious injury by vehicle and reckless driving in September 2022, after a passenger, Gabby Carrigan, reportedly fell off and succumbed to injuries the following day. Helms plead guilty last week to involuntary manslaughter and DWI, according to the Gaston County District Attorney’s Office. Officials say Helms registered a .02 BAC after the crash and already spent nine days in jail, adding that Helms now has 24 months of supervised probation with 60 hours of community service and substance abuse assessment.

WBTV

Toddler shot accidentally shot at church with pastor’s gun Burke County Deputies received the call about a gunshot wound at River Valley Baptist Church in Morganton shortly before 8:30 p.m. Sunday, according to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. A 2-year-old child is now in stable condition after what was determined to be an accidental shooting in the toddler’s head, just below his ear.

Area news crews spoke to the pastor of the church, who confirmed that both his sons and his gun were involved in the incident. The pastor said that his 2-yearold’s older brother accidentally fired the loaded weapon when the children found the gun in the back of his van.

NSJ

Prostitution ring busted in Salisbury Rowan County According to reports, 15 people have been charged in a prostitution investigation by the Rowan Co. Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury Police, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

The investigation took place last week in Salisbury, and officials say that all charges filed were for offenses that took place on North Long Street. Sheriff Travis Allen noted the negative impact on both residents and businesses in the community, and that there could be an element of victims being forced into prostitution. “Both the sheriff’s office and police department want those men charged, and others to know the behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our community,” Travis told news outlets.

Western NC woman missing after a campground stop

Lexington Police charge students for social media threats to schools

Homecoming parade disrupted by dirt bikers

Wildlife officials report disease among deer in Johnston Co.

Davidson County Multiple students have been charged in connection to threats at Piedmont Triad schools. According to the Lexington Police Department, they have been working with the school district to investigate the six threats made against Lexington Senior High School and Lexington Middle School via social media over a ten-day period. The charges include felony communicating a threat of mass violence on educational property in connection to a threat at the school.

Officials ask for parents and community members to be aware of their children’s social media activity, and that anyone with any knowledge about the other threats contact the police department.

NSJ

Johnston County The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) confirms that a female deer harvested in Johnston County has tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease. Officials say the deer was hunter-harvested during archery season and is the first detection of the disease in the county since March 2022. CWD is a highly transmissible disease to other deer and spreads through saliva, urine and feces in live deer and the movement of deer carcasses and carcass parts, but seems to pose no threat to humans.

Officials urge hunters the importance of taking precautions when transporting or disposing of deer carcasses. For more information and guidelines, visit ncwildlife.org.

Durham County The Durham Police Department have reported the attempted disruption of Hillside High School’s homecoming parade Sunday by two dirt bikers who tried to “insert themselves” into the parade route. Officials say that a Durham County Sheriff’s deputy encountered the bikers driving recklessly near the parade, trying multiple times to join the participants, which included other vehicles, floats, as well as marching bands and elementary school children. The two bikers were detained and later arrested after deputies called Durham Police to help with the call, police said in a news release. This incident occurred minutes after a wrong-way driver, currently still at large, entered the parade route at high speed, nearly injuring participants as well.

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Stokes County Family members are looking for a woman who went missing after making a stop at the Jomeokee Campground in Pinnacle, N.C. They say Jessica Straub was last heard from on Saturday. Stokes County officials searched the campground Sunday, reportedly finding some of her belongings, but nothing else. Her parents and brother say her phone is currently off, but that they had been in contact with Straub as she is on a road trip from Michigan. Straub was last seen in a white shirt, black jogging pants and tennis shoes. Anyone who might have seen her is asked to call the Stokes County Sheriff’s Department.

NSJ

Texas Pete false advertising lawsuit dismissed

Man with machete tried to board Charlotte school bus

Forsyth County A false advertising lawsuit against the company behind North Carolina-made Texas Pete hot sauce was dismissed after the dispute escalated to claims of harassment by the plaintiff. In 2022, Phillip White of California filed a class action lawsuit claiming that the maker of Texas Pete hot sauce, T.W. Garner Food Co., was deceptively marketing the sauce as a Texan product even though it is made in Winston-Salem. The suit asked for the court to force Texas Pete to change its name and give money to past customers. White, who was involved in a similar case accusing Kroger Co. of false advertising, now claims that Garner Foods’ attorneys were harassing his friends and family, and asked for the case to be dismissed.

Mecklenburg County Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department officials say a driver got out of his vehicle with a machete and got into an argument with a 23-year-old woman who was operating a CharlotteMecklenburg Schools bus last week.

During the argument, the man went to the door of the school bus, tapped on the door with the machete, and tried to gain access to the bus, police said. The encounter, which authorities believe started as a possible road rage incident, happened shortly before 6:30 a.m. in the 1400 block of E 7th Street. The bus was servicing Myers Park High School but no students were on the bus at the time of the incident, and the man was able to leave the area before authorities arrived at the scene.

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Havelock event to help dispose of unused prescription drugs Craven County Havelock officials have announced that the Havelock Police Department is teaming up with the Drug Enforcement Administration to host an event for the public to dispose of unneeded medications in observance of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On Saturday, Oct. 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Walmart located at 566 US 70 Highway W. in Havelock. Citizens may bring tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs to these drop off locations.

According the news release collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, like cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

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Woman arrested in crochet animal Facebook scam Pitt County A Youngsville woman has been arrested and is being charged for her part in a Facebook scam. Tabitha Melissa Paganelli, 27, allegedly scammed someone over Facebook for the order of crochet animals.

The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office reports that an area consumer stated she had been the victim of a Facebook scam where she had placed an order for crochet animals, but the order had not been fulfilled in full as promised in May. The victim attempted to resolve the issue with the suspect but all communications were cut. Last week Pitt Co. detectives learned that Paganelli was residing in Youngsville, and coordinated with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to arrest Paganelli at work in Bunn, N.C. She was booked and later released on $5,000 bail.

WCTI

agencies and departments.”

Cooper’s announcement cites Moore as being recently retired “after more than 35 years” with the Wake County Public School System. During her time with Wake County Schools, Moore was a teacher, assistant principal, principal, deputy superintendent, and served as superintendent for the last five years of her employment.

She replaces James Ford, who resigned from the board in August.

Moore has previously been named the Wake County Principal of the Year, the North Carolina Central Region Principal of the Year, the North Carolina PTA Superintendent of the Year, and the Magnet Schools of America National Superintendent of the Year.

What’s in the budget for post-secondary education? Billions.

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — With the enactment of the 2023-25 state budget on Oct. 2, billions in spending for the University of North Carolina and Community College Systems will take effect.

In a statement, University of North Carolina System President Peter Hans called the budget passed by the General Assembly a “huge win for North Carolina’s public universities” that supports the system’s mission.

“From children’s health care to faculty and staff salaries to campus repairs and renovations, this budget strengthens our work and expands our service to the state,” Hans said.

“Steady public support for higher education helped make North Carolina one of the fastest-growing states in America and made it possible to keep tuition flat for eight years in a row,” added Hans. “This delivers tremendous value for students and families, so I’m grateful to our citizens and our elected leaders for continuing a strong tradition of public investment.”

UNC System topline items in the budget: $15 million for research partnership development with next-generation energy businesses $47 million for engineering program support $47.2 million for health and medical program support $80 million for the expansion of health-related courses $530 million for repairs and renovations at UNC System schools

Funding is also provided for the new School of Civic Life and Leadership at UNC-Chapel Hill and an expansion of the N.C. Teaching Fellows Program.

The North Carolina Community College System will see over $1.474 billion in year one and over $1.514 billion in year two of the budget.

The Community College System had asked for a funding increase of $232 million in March. That request included $86.8 million to raise faculty and staff salaries by 7% salary increase as well as close to $144 million in student investment spending. : $2.4 million to provide childcare services to enable parents to attend college courses $8 million for development of career pathways for students with intellectual disabilities $25 million to increase student financial aid $14.2 million for broadband access improvements at all 47 rural colleges in the state $55 million for courses to gain degrees in nursing and health care fields $400 million to complete the four-year community college capital commitment Another $2 million in nonrecurring funds are included in both years of the budget for aiding students on track to graduate from public universities but may be at risk of dropping out over financial issues.

The budget also codifies the Short-Term Workforce Development Grants Program to help students cover the cost of workforce and continuing education courses.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

NATION & WORLD

Hamas practiced in plain sight, posting video of mock attack weeks before border breach

el of a tank flying an Israeli flag.

The gunmen move through the cinderblock buildings, seizing and cuffing other men playing the roles of Israeli soldier hostages.

Michael Milshtein, a retired Israeli colonel who previously led the military intelligence department overseeing the Palestinian territories, said he was aware of the Hamas videos, but was still caught off guard by the ambition and scale of the attack.

“We knew about the drones, we knew about booby traps, we knew about cyberattacks and the marine forces. The surprise was the coordination between all those systems,” Milshtein said.

The seeds of Israel’s failure to anticipate and stop last Saturday’s attack go back at least a decade. Faced with recurring attacks from Hamas militants tunneling under Israel’s border fence, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proposed a concrete solution — build a bigger wall.

With financial help from U.S. taxpayers, Israel completed construction of a $1.1 billion project to fortify its existing defenses along its 40-mile land border with Gaza in 2021.

The new, upgraded barrier includes a “smart fence” up to 19.7 feet high, festooned with cameras that can see in the dark, razor wire and seismic sensors capable of detecting the digging of tunnels more than 200 feet below. Manned guard posts were replaced with concrete towers topped with remote-controlled machine guns.

“In our neighborhood, we

need to protect ourselves from wild beasts,” Netanyahu said in 2016, referring to Palestinians and neighboring Arab states.

“At the end of the day as I see it, there will be a fence like this one surrounding Israel in its entirety.”

Shortly after dawn on Saturday, Hamas fighters pushed through Netanyahu’s wall in a matter of minutes. And they did it on the relative cheap, using explosive charges to blow holes in the barrier and then sending in bulldozers to widen the breaches as fighters streamed through on motorcycles and in pick-up trucks. Cameras and communications gear were bombarded by grenades and mortar shells dropped from offthe-shelf, commercial drones — a tactic borrowed directly from the battlefields of Ukraine.

Snipers took out Israel’s sophisticated roboguns by targeting their exposed ammunition boxes, causing them to explode.

Militants armed with assault rifles used paragliders to sail over the Israeli defenses, providing Hamas airborne troops despite lacking airplanes. Increasingly sophisticated homemade rockets capable of striking Tel Aviv substituted for a lack of heavy artillery.

Satellite images analyzed by the AP show the massive extent of the damage done at the heavily fortified Erez border crossing between Gaza and Israel. The images taken Sunday showed gaping holes in three sections of the border wall, the largest more than 230 feet wide.

Once the wall was breached, Hamas fighters streamed

through by the hundreds. A video showed a lone Israeli battle tank rushing to the sight of the attack, only to be attacked and destroyed in a ball of flame. Hamas then disabled radio towers and radar sites, likely impeding the ability of Israeli commanders to see and understand the extent of the attack.

Hamas forces also struck a nearby army base near Zikim, engaging in an intense firefight with Israeli troops before overrunning the post. Videos posted

by Hamas show graphic scenes with dozens of dead Israeli soldiers.

They then fanned out across the countryside of Southern Israel, attacking kibbutzim and a music festival. On the bodies of some of the Hamas militants killed during the invasion were detailed maps showing planned zones and routes of attack, according to images posted by Israeli first responders who recovered some of the corpses. Israeli authorities announced last week they had recovered the bodies of about 1,500 Islamic fighters, though no details were provided about where they were found or how they died.

Military experts told the AP the attack showed a level of sophistication not previously exhibited by Hamas, likely suggesting they had external help.

Ali Barakeh, a Beirut-based senior Hamas official, acknowledged that over the years the group had received supplies, financial support, military expertise and training from its allies abroad, including Iran and Hezbollah. But he insisted the recent operation to breach Israel’s border defenses was homegrown, with the exact date and time for the attack known only to a handful of commanders within Hamas.

Details of the operation were kept so tight, Barakeh said, that some Hamas fighters who took part in the assault believed they were heading to just another drill, showing up in street clothes rather than their uniforms.

Even with all its high-tech gadgets, the Iron Wall was still largely just a physical barrier that could be breached, said Victor Tricaud, a senior analyst with the London-based consulting firm Control Risks.

“The fence, no matter how many sensors ... no matter how deep the underground obstacles go, at the end of the day, it’s effectively a metal fence,” he said. “Explosives, bulldozers can eventually get through it. What was remarkable was Hamas’s capability to keep all the preparations under wraps.”

played by Hamas,” Staton-Williams said. “After leaning into my faith and remaining in prayer, a decision to endorse more violence was something I was not lead to do. I will continue to pray for peace as both countries work toward resolution.”

WBT Radio Host Pete Kaliner spoke with House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain), who said it “hit close to me” as the speaker had traveled to Israel a few years ago.

Moore said during his trip that he had visited one of the kibbutz locations where Hamas slaughtered families and children over the past weekend. He described some of the carnage that has occurred including babies being beheaded, children being burned alive, and people murdered.

“If we can’t take a stand for that... if we can’t take a stand to support those people to oppose terrorists like Hamas that are doing what they’re doing, then what can we do?” Moore told Kaliner.

“All of the folks who were on the House floor voted for it but about 12 Democratic members literally walked off the floor and did not vote for it. They just walked off the floor and I am shocked by that. I am sur-

prised by that. I am disappointed by that,” said Moore.

In the N.C. Senate, 46 members signed a statement condemning Hamas for the attack on Israel, but four Democrats refused. The Senatorial Statement, in part, reads, “[I]t is our duty, and the duty of all civilized people, to condemn the cowardly act of targeting civilians, including children and the elderly.”

The Democrats who did not sign the statement were Sens.

Julie Mayfield (D-Buncombe), Graig Meyer (D-Orange), Mujtaba Mohammed (D-Mecklenburg), and Natalie Murdock (D-Durham).

In a series of posts on X, Meyer made no mention of the Senatorial statement, saying instead that as state legislator he was not elected to “weigh in on foreign affairs.”

Gov. Roy Cooper personally issued a statement on X Oct. 8: “I stand with Israel and strongly condemn the horrific attacks being perpetrated by Hamas and others. This violence is unthinkable and must be stopped. My heart is with the people of Israel and all North Carolinians with family and friends there. I have directed the Department of Pub-

lic Safety to take action to support security at houses of worship as needed as we remain vigilant against any potential threats here in North Carolina. – RC” In his official capacity as attorney general, Stein joined a statement issued by a multi-state coalition of attorneys general on the attack on Israel. The statement reads, in part, “We are aghast and outraged at the wanton, calculated attacks on civilians going about their daily lives. The carnage, perpetrated by Hamas and its supporters, has directly led to the loss of hundreds of innocent lives and horrific kidnappings.”

Neither Cooper nor Stein has not made any comments about the refusals by the House and Senate Democrats.

Additionally, state Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton has also not issued any statement on the attack on Israel nor has she made any comment about the refusals of General Assembly Democrats with regard to the House resolution or the Senatorial statement.

As of Oct. 17, the N.C. Democratic Party has not issued any statement on any social media accounts or on its website regarding the attack on Israel.

The Associated Press LESS THAN A month before Hamas fighters blew through Israel’s high-tech “Iron Wall” and launched an attack that would leave more than 1,200 Israelis dead, they practiced in a very public dress rehearsal.

A slickly produced two-minute propaganda video posted to social media by Hamas on Sept.

12 shows fighters using explosives to blast through a replica of the border gate, sweep in on pickup trucks and then move building by building through a full-scale reconstruction of an Israeli town, firing automatic weapons at human-silhouetted paper targets.

The Islamic militant group’s live-fire exercise dubbed operation “Strong Pillar” also had militants in body armor and combat fatigues carrying out operations that included the destruction of mock-ups of the wall’s concrete towers and a communications antenna, just as they would do for real in the deadly attack last Saturday.

While Israel’s highly regarded security and intelligence services were clearly caught flatfooted by Hamas’ ability to breach its Gaza defenses, the group appears to have hidden its extensive preparations for the assault in plain sight. One of the compounds Hamas used to prepare was so close to an Israeli border checkpoint that soldiers could have been able to observe the site with binoculars.

“There clearly were warnings and indications that should have been picked up,” said Bradley Bowman, a former U.S. Army officer who is now senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington research institute. “Or maybe they were picked up, but they didn’t spark necessary preparations to prevent these horrific terrorist acts from happening.”

Bowman said there are indications that Hamas intentionally led Israeli officials to believe it was preparing to carry out raids in the West Bank, rather than Gaza. It was also potentially significant that the exercise has been held annually since 2020 in December, but was moved up by nearly four months this year to coincide with the anniversary of Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza.

In a separate video posted to Telegram from last year’s Strong Pillar exercise on Dec. 28, Hamas fighters are shown storming what appears to be a mockup Israeli military base, complete with a full-size mod-

ISRAEL from page 1

who walked out on the resolution, von Haefen and Staton-Williams, have issued statements. von Haefen posted her statement to X in which she seemingly blamed the veto overrides on Oct. 10 as the reason why she walked out on the resolution supporting Israel.

“I stand with President Biden & our NC Democratic congressional delegation in condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel. Brutal violence has no place in our society and my heart and prayers are with everyone affected by this horrible war,” von Haefen wrote in part. “But, I will not stand with Speaker Moore in his efforts yesterday to distract from the damage that was occurring to democracy in North Carolina with the veto overrides of five destructive pieces of legislation.”

WSOC’s Joe Bruno reported that Staton-Williams later issued a statement saying she could not “endorse more violence,” regarding her walkout on NC’s resolution to support Israel.

“I represent a district with families who have loved ones on both sides of this conflict. I absolutely condemn the cruelty dis-

HAMAS VIA AP

This image from video posted to social media by Hamas on Sept. 12, 2023 shows a live-fire exercise dubbed operation “Strong Pillar” outside Al-Mawasi, a Palestinian town on the southern coast of the Gaza Strip.

Stoneman Douglas High shooting site visited one last time by lawmakers and educators Parkland, Fla. Florida lawmakers and education leaders from several states took what is likely the final tour of a building at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, where a former student shot 17 people to death and wounded 17 others on Valentine’s Day 2018.

The building is scheduled to be demolished next summer.

Authorities told WPLG-TV that Saturday was the last day for people to tour the building, which has been preserved as evidence by the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

People from 25 states, including school board members, superintendents and national Parent Teacher Association members, went on the tour to see how they could make schools safer, WFOR-TV reported.

In July, families of the victims were allowed to go inside the locked building.

Members of Congress were among those who toured it in August.

Classes have long-since resumed at the Stoneman Douglas campus while the building with bulletriddled and blood-splattered walls remained locked off.

Community members have been calling for its demolition for years, but prosecutors said they needed to preserve it as evidence for the shooter’s murder trial.

On Feb. 14, 2018, former student Nikolas Cruz went with an AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle to the campus, where he killed 14 students and three staff members and wounded 17 other people. He pleaded guilty in 2021 and was sentenced last year to life in prison.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Russia’s foreign minister will visit North Korea amid claims of weapons supplied to Moscow Moscow Russia’s foreign minister will visit North Korea this week, the Foreign Ministry said Monday, days after the United States claimed Pyongyang had delivered munitions and military equipment to Russia for use in the fighting in Ukraine.

Sergey Lavrov will be in North Korea on Wednesday and Thursday, the ministry said in a brief statement that did not specify whom he would meet or the aims of the trip.

The White House said Friday that more than 1,000 containers of equipment and ammunition have been sent to Russia from North Korea.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia last month to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military sites, triggering speculation about a possible North Korean plan to refill Russia’s munition stores that have been drained by the protracted conflict with Ukraine.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that the U.S. believes Kim is seeking sophisticated Russian weapons technologies in return for the munitions to boost North Korea’s military and nuclear program.

The White House released images that it said show the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia. The containers were shipped between Sept. 7 and Oct. 1, according to the White House.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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

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

I know In order to put the crisis causedVirginia’s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There is though approximately programor of are Reagan, led d to do, lastUnited I to normal they are$120 conspiracy theorists people wh don’t.as afterdown our own asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock further. neighbors he mightisbe the root academic corruption, billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment inor1989. otherwise don’t care if they get themselves others sick. title of a recent study, ehernobyl. to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen rates — Concor the num temporary In inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 C Since when did questioning government at all levels become aisba “Academic Grievance Studies and theAmericans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2 starttalking gettingabout back the possibility This is all new to the number of identified COVID-19 cases eady money to bu sacrifices are comparison.

Senators in Washingto thing?

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

The study was are people who shape, safe, at and in theChina denominator are likely wrong.

We debt we owe them as one wayor toform. get So while we should remain vigilant and stay health care An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment forgiving $1.2 trw over. of China toon do,half lastof I checked. done

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

Afte ty were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patie ountable in tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue hold C suffering fromin the H1N1 virusis(swine flu) representatives during the 2009topandem $10 million federal Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatical decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan extra we areprecautions, now this disaster. been trying to take because all of this brings grant to Peter expand in ofsay has Lindsay and Boghossian that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah e, to is my family.

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

After County and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

Even more importantly, we have no clue ation.

Burke past. the world like any other But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone hm in academia, especially within certain 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scientist China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities. They call l of this brings up of identified Last week, the Appalachian business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that theycases could be an order of ma these fields “grievance studies,” where Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavir senior refer notscholarship to repeat.Commission number of people who have had Regional (ARC) is not so much based upon intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and ost everyone hastruth finding butmillion upon attending to awarded a $10 grant replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. social grievances.

Grievance scholars to The Industrial Commons bully students, administrators and other (TIC), an industry-focused departments into adhering to their nonprofit The in western worldview. worldview they promote is Jason North scientific Carolina.nor Therigorous. grant Grievance neither EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS studies consist of disciplines such as is posed to help build a sociology, anthropology, gender studies, 40,000-square-foot green COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race textile manufacturing hub in studies.

Burke County.

In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, “North has started Lindsay andCarolina Boghossian submitting bogus academic papers to a rich legacy in textile academic journals in cultural, queer, AP PHOTO manufacturing and race, gender, fat and sexuality studies innovation,” said Governor to determine if they would pass peer Gov. Roy Cooper met with United State Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel to discuss the strong economic partnership between Royof Cooper in a and pressthe “THIS IS THEfallen DAYinto the lord has made seriousness the be virus review and accepted for need publication.North Carolina and Japan.

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home place.

I unders release.

“This investment Acceptance of dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how people who simplyresearch askwill that orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I editors found sympathetic to their helpstart strengthen our textile this challenging tim n thingsjournal can getting back to are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”I know that during questions about the data, intersectional postmodern leftist vision economy andorgrow our working from home or losing a job, it may with contempt.

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

They’re treated thou academic standards. which is the largest and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded ls us aboutworkforce, when it’s safe to begin the Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the govern Several of the fake research papers in the nation.”for publication. The Fat and of hopeful for, even alcy. were accepted a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful process returning back Lenten and pandemic. us, and we have the toisask Thisjournal newright facility setthose be paper Studies published atohoax state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government w Since when did that argued the term bodybuilding was me, my faith is an important part o home orders are in place all over the a manufacturing incubator Easter seasons If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked asFor to the questions.

And the longer questioning andas should be replaced making.

As I celebrated Easter with my f hem get exclusionary in states, such Michigan, that will expand the capacity justification for it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like country, and the provide North State Journal and“we employers,” said Cooper in stricter with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our eeling isolated and/or anxious about to produce circular textiles – a must do this out of an abundance of caution.” people, a a press releasethe on more Monday.

“We sittingLo message of politicized performance.” One reviewer affliction, so that we may be able toback comfo ng for their families, will demand hope to announce more good TOKYO – Last week, Gov. Roy process where textile waste is this at all levels It will need to be explained in detailhope to the people of this state who when they can get t said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading that we will affliction, with comfort which we our news for thethe people and econ35-person North are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. broken down anditturned article and believe has aninto important Cooper led abecome a once again enjoy Carolina delegation to Tokyo, omy of North Carolina in the local an God.” vels should be as forthcoming as they contribution to make to the field and this amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders at the new yarn. This process allows thing?

Japan, for the bad annual Southeastweeks andcelebrating months to come.” sporting events, If you are the Easter season again, not vague answers, but answer journal.” are reliable. can be with those answer for a new raw material input ern United States/Japan (SEUS/ During his visit, Cooper met “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect on this message and be comforted ents believability. concerts, family To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then details that give the to make new products at the with several with notable business Feminism as anfamilies, Intersectional Reply toJapan) Economic Development God’s example andWe comfort allallthose in n hat we can to keep our free citizens mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about should continue gatherings, Conference.

During this event, leaders, including Toyota ChairTIC and throughout the textile Neoliberal Feminism,” was this difficult time.

Through faith and by h afe. But we should and alsoChoice still continue too. services ourselves, and our comm theincourse man Akio Toyoda, FUJIFILM church manufacturing supply chain. living a freeof the data. State Republican leaders have, accepted for publication

by Affilia, a which spanned confident we will emerge out of this pand ecause while reasonable stay-at-home four days, Cooper held several President and CEO Teiichi Goto, Unfortunately, when certain types ofand questions get asked, there is to ask questions about th feminist for social TIC isjournal a nonprofit that workers. The many more society Inthose this same Forestry spirit, I continue to be ins y shouldpaper also have an expiration date. meetings with major were business Sumitomo President sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat measures are understand consisted in part of a rewritten supports the scaling of our own and CEO Toshiro Mitsuyoshi, supposedofficials simply questioning the data and askingafter neighbors helping neighbors. nd it is not normal.

Not in any way,Two other leaders and government passage from Mein Kampf. when we can start getting back This is all new to Amer employee-owned businesses opportuRepresentative Di- name temporary InMorinaga Concord, a shape, high school senior d remainhoax vigilant and stay safe, at including to recruit employment papers were published, to do, last I to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who or form.

So while and industrial cooperatives, nities for the state and establish rector and President Eijiro Ota, “Rape and Queer Performativity to buy a 3-D printer andwe plastic to mfortable withCulture this so-called “new sacrifices are sick. money otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others the same time should checked. relationships in advance of next Bridgestone Global CEO Shu helping the region’s atwhile Urban Dog Parks.”

This paper’s subject health care workers out of his own home.

Since when did questioning government a bad andnormal.” over. at all levels becomeIshibashi Japan External was dog-on-dog rape.

But the dog rape year’s conference, which is set to manufacturing workforce thing?

That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one little bit. be held in Charlotte.

Trade Organization (JETRO) paper eventually forced Boghossian, improve its economic SEUS/Japan is considered Chairman Norihiko Ishiguro to to do, last I checked.

Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out AP PHOTO prosperity.

It isSister now home under the pseudonym Toldjah the premier economic developdiscussI’m several established and has also My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family.

Stacey Matthews themselves.

A Wall Street Journal writer to three enterprises, Good week, Governor Roy Cooper, Secretary of Commerce soon to be constructed manudState and Insurrection. hadLegal figured out what they were doing. ment partnership between the Last worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contribu Baker Sanders and Economic Development facturing facilities across North Books, Carolina Textile District Some papers accepted for publicationeight states in the Southeastern Machelle suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, United States and Japan, one Partnership of North Carolina Executive Director Chris Carolina. The governor also met material Return,advocated which training inand academic journals I’ve been to take extraCorporation precautions, becauseKoji all of this brings up of the nation’s largest trading Chung mettrying with Toyota Motor President Sato with United States Ambassador men like dogs and punishing white male has saved 1.8 million pounds way too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. partners and home to 225 comand Toyota Motor North America Executive Vice President to Japan Rahm Emanuel to discollege students for historical slavery by of fabric from landfills over the But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has panies with large presences in Christ Reynolds to discuss the first North America battery cuss the strong economic partasking them to sit in silence on the floor in past five years.

Carolina. Nearly 30,000 manufacturing plant in the Triad. nership between the state and chains during class and to be expected North to North Carolinians go to work Japan.

TIC alsothe has several Other papers learn from discomfort. at Japanese-owned companies, According to a press release community-focused initiatives y celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life “We’re grateful for the op- companies in Japan and engage from the governor’s office, Coochoice and“TOSS,” advocated treating privatelywith several thousand more such as a schoolscheduled to start in the next portunity to strengthen our in meaningful discussions with conducted based artmasturbation program, andas a form of five years. economic partnerships with several major business leaders See CONFERENCE, page A10 sexual violence against women. Typically, “Work” in Burke County s academic journal editors send submitted that engages youth and the In papers out to referees for review. community in acceptance conversations recommending for publication, many reviewers gave about the future of these papers glowing praise. employment.

Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran This manufacturing hub certain grievance studies concepts through will be part of TIC’s largerto see how often the Lexis/Nexis database, Innovation Campus and will bethe years. they appeared in our press over He foundat huge in the usages located theincreases former Drexel ofHeritage “white privilege,” bias,” Furniture“unconscious site in “critical race theory” and “whiteness.”

Morganton. my and devastate local commuAll of this is being taught to college The Associated Press This project is whom a nities,” he said. students, many of become primary Bill Ford, only the fourth DETROIT — Ford Motor collaboration between North and secondary school teachers who then family member to lead the Co. Executive Chairman Bill Carolina, South Carolina and indoctrinate our young people.

120-year-old company, said he I doubt whether coronavirus- Ford on Monday called on auTennessee, and isthe designed has watched other countries toworkers to come together to caused financial crunch will give college to improve the economic lose their auto industries, then and university administrators, who areend a a monthlong strike that he prosperity in southern all of their manufacturing base. says could cost the company the crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, ability to invest in the future.

He said strong American manAppalachia.

Overall, this the guts and backbone to restore academic In a rare speech coming ufacturing is essential for naproject will include $60 million respectability.

Far too often, they get much during contract talks in the tional security. ofintheir political supportand from private investment, it campus company’s hometown of Dear“We need to come together to grievance people who are members of the is set to create 85 jobs across bring an end to this acrimonifaculty and diversity and multiculturalborn, Michigan, Ford said high the three states. Of the 85 labor costs could limit spending ous round of talks,” Ford said. “I administrative offices. still believe in a bright future — new of these willboards be Thejobs, best 31 hope lies with of on developing new vehicles and investing in factories. one that we can build together. based inthough North many Carolina. trustees, serve as yes-men “It’s the absolute lifeblood of I still believe the automobile infor the university president.

I think that a “The Industrial Commons is AP PHOTO our company. And if we lose it, dustry is a major force for good good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s a nationally recognized model we will lose to the competition. Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford delivers in our country. We will continue catalogs. Look at the course offerings at for our circular economy,” said America loses. Many jobs will remarks on the future of American manufacturing, Monday, to be there when America needs a time when college graduates knew how N.C. Commerce Secretary be lost,” said the great-grandOct. 16, 2023, in Dearborn, Mich. us most.” to read, write and compute, and make Last week, after the KenMachelle Baker Sanders. them today’s curricula.

Another helpfulson of company founder Henry Ford. tucky strike began, a top Ford tool would to give in careful “Since itsbe founding 2015,consideration The company, he said, builds added jobs here in the U.S.,” in the world, the Kentucky executive said on a conference toTIC eliminating has beenall onclasses/majors/minors the frontlines more vehicles in America and Ford said. call with reporters that Ford Truck Plant in Louisville. containing the word “studies,” such as of reenergizing the industrial The company is near an imFord said the strike at the had reached the limit in how women, Asian, black or queer studies. has more United Auto Workers manufacturing economy I’d bet that by restoring the traditionalemployees than any company, passe with the United Auto Kentucky plant is harming tens much it was willing to spend to which has increased its costs in Workers union, which walked of thousands of Americans who end the strike. in western Northto Carolina academic mission colleges, they would out in targeted strikes at all work for parts suppliers and UAW President Shawn Fain put a serious dent into the COVID-19 a highly competitive industry. through its unique workforce Ford has 57,000 UAW work- three Detroit automakers on Ford dealers. The strike also said that Bill Ford knows he can budget shortfall. training and community ers compared with 46,000 at Sept. 15. could cause a fragile parts sup- settle the strike by calling CEO support programs that have GM and 43,000 at StellanLast week 8,700 union memply base to collapse, he said. “If Jim Farley and telling him “to Walter E. Williams is a professor of trained more than 3,700 tis. “Many of our competitors bers walked out at the largest it continues, it will have a major economics at George Mason University. moved jobs to Mexico as we and most profitable Ford plant impact on the American econo- See STRIKE, page A11 workers.”

business & economy Fixingn.c. college corruption FAST

FACTS

A6

Approved Logos

north STA

VISUAL VOICES

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

Cooper leads NC delegation to Tokyo for SEUS/Japan Economic Development Conference

Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford calls on autoworkers to end strike, says company’s future is at stake

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

A10 NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING OCT 15

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

$2,355,959,672 Add Receipts

$107,187,103 Less Disbursements

$112,753,158 Reserved Cash

$125,000,000 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$6,312,010,266 Loan Balance

$0

Delta Air Lines posts $1.11 billion profit for the third quarter and sees strong holiday bookings The Associated Press ATLANTA, G.A. – Planes packed with summer travelers boosted Delta Air Lines to a $1.11 billion profit in the third quarter, and the carrier said Thursday that it expects revenue to keep rising into the holiday season.

Profit was up 59% from a year earlier, as strong ticket sales — especially for premium seats and international flights — helped Delta shrug off higher labor costs.

The Atlanta-based airline predicted ranges for fourth-quarter and full-year profit that mostly exceed Wall Street expectations.

“I think we’re closing the year strong, and the holiday bookings that we see right now are pretty good,” CEO Ed Bastian said in an interview. “Domestic (travel) is solid, and international is really strong.”

U.S. airlines are flying high

as the travel recovery that began last year shows few signs of slowing down.

Delta increased its passenger-carrying capacity an aggressive 16% and was able to fill all those extra seats. Travelers flew 64 billion miles on the airline in the quarter, a 17% increase, and they filled 88% of the seats on the average flight, a point higher than last summer.

Revenue from ticket sales in the main cabin grew 12% — and 17% for premium seating.

Money from Delta’s loyalty program soared 21%.

The program, called SkyMiles, has become so popular that there are far more passengers hoping for upgrades to better seats than available seats. Lines can grow long at Delta lounges at busy airports like Atlanta and New York’s JFK. But when Delta announced changes to deal with the overcrowding last month — includ-

ing basing elite frequent-flyer status purely on spending, and limiting lounge access for holders of Delta credit cards — the reaction from longtime customers was quick and brutal.

Some vowed to switch airlines.

Alaska Airlines and JetBlue fished for disgruntled Delta members by promising elite status in their programs. Even Bastian admitted the airline “ probably went too far.”

Bastian has promised to modify the unpopular changes, but he hasn’t given any details yet.

“We are working on that.

We’ll be announcing something in the coming days,” Bastian said in the interview. He said he has received “a lot of feedback – everyone had their own ideas as to how we might restructure the program. Almost universally, people acknowledged that we needed to do something.”

Delta’s third-quarter profit,

adjusted to exclude one-time items, was $2.03 per share, 8 cents better than forecast by analysts in a FactSet survey.

Revenue rose 11% to $15.49 billion, also beating expectations.

For the fourth quarter, Delta said revenue will rise as much as 11% from a year ago and it will earn between $1.05 to $1.30 per share. Analysts expected $1.09.

The airline predicted that full-year profit will land between $6 and $6.25 per share after saying in June it would be at the top end of a $5-to-$6 range.

The short-term outlook would be rosier if not for a recent pickup in jet fuel prices — although fuel is still much cheaper than it was a year ago.

Bastian expressed confidence that Delta and other carriers can raise prices enough to cover any increase in fuel expense.

Shares of Delta were virtually flat in morning trading.

CONFERENCE from page A9

per also scheduled time to meet confidentially with several other companies, who have yet to establish an economic relationship with North Carolina but are considering new opportunities.

“Over thousands of miles of land and sea and several generations, North Carolina’s relationship with Japan has grown strong and resolute, producing valuable success for our people,” said Cooper. “We look forward to continuing to work together to bring success to both the southeastern United States and Japan through this valuable partnership.”

The 2024 SEUS/Japan Annual Joint Meeting is scheduled to take place in Charlotte. The goal of the next conference is to showcase the state’s economy and build greater ties between North Carolina and Japan.

“This meeting is a symbol of the Southeast United States and Japan’s strength, and a reminder of all the good things we do together, every day,” said Cooper. “From electric vehicles to aviation to life sciences, we’re excited to host SEUS/Japan in Charlotte next year to continue discussing what’s next for business for our two countries.”

AP PHOTO

A Delta Air Lines plane leaves the gate on July 12, 2021, at Logan International Airport in Boston. Planes packed with summer travelers boosted Delta Air Lines to a $1.11 billion profit in the third quarter, and the carrier said Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, that it expects revenue to keep rising into the holiday season.

Social Security commissioner announces 3.2% increase in benefits for 2024 The Associated Press WASHINGTON — Millions of Social Security recipients will get a 3.2% increase in their benefits in 2024, far less than this year’s historic boost and reflecting moderating consumer prices.

The cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, means the average recipient will receive more than $50 more every month beginning in January, the Social Security Administration said Thursday.

The AARP estimated that increase at $59 per month.

“This will help millions of people keep up with expenses,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, Social Security’s acting commissioner.

About 71 million people — including retirees, disabled people and children — receive Social Security benefits.

Thursday’s announcement follows this year’s 8.7% benefit increase, brought on by record 40-year-high inflation, which pushed up the price of consumer goods. With some economists expecting inflation to ease, the next annual increase is markedly smaller.

“Compared to last year’s 8.7% increase, this is going to feel small and the perception is that its not keeping up with the inflation and the higher costs that retirees are still seeing,” said Martha Shedden, president of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts.

On top of that, an anticipated increase in Medicare premiums for 2024 will eat into the Social

AP PHOTO

A Social Security card is displayed on Oct. 12, 2021, in Tigard, Ore. About 71 million people including retirees, disabled people and children receive Social Security benefits.

Security cost-of-living bump.

Medicare hasn’t announced the increase for traditional Medicare, but said the cost of Medicare Advantage plans is expected to remain stable.

Still, senior advocates applauded the annual Social Security adjustment.

“Retirees can rest a little easier at night knowing they will soon receive an increase in their Social Security checks to help them keep up with rising prices,” AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins said.

“We know older Americans are

still feeling the sting when they buy groceries and gas, making every dollar important.”

Social Security is financed by payroll taxes collected from workers and their employers. The maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security payroll taxes will be $168,600 for 2024, up from $160,200 for 2023.

Retirees whose sole income comes from Social Security are not subject to taxes on that income.

Nancy Altman, president of Social Security Works, an ad-

vocacy group for the social insurance program, said that the COLA is a “reminder of Social Security’s unique importance” and that “Congress should pass legislation to protect and expand benefits.”

However, the program faces a severe financial shortfall in the coming years.

The annual Social Security and Medicare trustees report released in March said the program’s trust fund will be unable to pay full benefits beginning in 2033. If the trust fund is deplet-

ed, the government will be able to pay only 77% of scheduled benefits, the report said.

There have been legislative proposals to shore up Social Security, but they have not made it past committee hearings.

A March poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that most U.S. adults are opposed to proposals that would cut into Medicare or Social Security benefits, and 79% of people polled said they oppose reducing the size of Social Security benefits.

The Social Security Administration is still without a permanent leader. President Joe Biden in July nominated former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley to lead the agency.

The COLA is calculated according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index, or CPI. But there are calls for the agency to instead use a different index, the CPI-E, which measures price changes based on the spending patterns of the elderly, like health care, food and medicine costs.

Any change to the calculation would require congressional approval. But with decades of inaction on Social Security and with the House at a standstill after the ouster of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., seniors and their advocates say they don’t have confidence any sort of change will be approved soon.

The cost of living adjustments will have a big impact on people like Alfred Mason, an 83-yearold Louisiana resident. Mason said that “any increase is welcomed, because it sustains us for what we are going through.”

As inflation is still high, he said, anything added to his income “would be greatly appreciated.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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Amazon, Tripadvisor and other companies team up to battle fake reviews while FTC seeks to ban them The Associated Press NEW YORK — Some of the most used platforms for travel and online shopping said Tuesday they’re going to team up to battle fake reviews.

Amazon, reviews site Glassdoor and Trustpilot as well as travel companies Expedia Group, Booking.com and Tripadvisor said in an announcement they’re launching a coalition that aims to protect access to “trustworthy consumer reviews” worldwide.

The companies said the members of the group, which will be called Coalition for Trusted Reviews, will look for best practices for hosting online reviews and share methods on how to detect fake ones. That will include developing standards for what constitutes a fake review and sharing information about how bad actors operate.

Phony reviews have long plagued online marketplaces despite their efforts to eradicate it. Much of the problem is fueled by brokers who solicit fake customer reviews through social media platforms, encrypted messaging apps and other channels in exchange for money, free items or other benefits. Brokers can solicit positive reviews to boost sales for businesses or sellers. They can also also post negative reviews for competitors in order to tank

AP PHOTO

In this April 17, 2019, file photo, online customer reviews for a product are displayed on a computer in New York. Some of the most used platforms for travel and online shopping said Tuesday, Oct. 17. 2023 they’re going to team up to battle fake reviews. Amazon, reviews site Glassdoor and Trustpilot as well as travel companies Expedia Group, Booking.com and Tripadvisor announced they’re launching a group called the “Coalition for Trusted Reviews.” their sales.

Last month, Amazon said two review brokers in China were sentenced to two-and-ahalf years in prison and three years of probation after using messaging apps to advertise

and sell fake reviews to Amazon selling accounts. The company has filed a flurry of other lawsuits in the past year against operators that it says were doing similar things. Last year, it also sued the administrators of more

than 10,000 Facebook groups that it alleged were coordinating bogus reviews in exchange for money or free products.

Facebook groups trading reviews for Google and Trustpilot, which allows users to leave

feedback for businesses, were also discovered earlier this year by the British consumer watchdog group “Which?”

Federal regulators have also been aiming to crack down on bogus reviews aiming to deceive consumers. In June, the Federal Trade Commission proposed a new rule that, among other things, would prohibit businesses from selling or obtaining fake reviews, suppressing honest reviews and selling fake social media engagement.

Businesses would also be prohibited from creating or controlling a website that claims to provide independent opinions about its products and employing other practices like “review hijacking,” which makes reviews for one product appear like they were written for different ones. If the proposal is adopted, violators can be face penalties.

Becky Foley, Tripadvisor’s vice president for Trust & Safety, said in a statement included in the news release that combating operators behind fake reviews will be “an immediate area of focus” for the coalition.

“These actors often operate outside of jurisdictions with a legal framework to shut down fraudulent activity, making robust cooperation even more important,” Foley said.

The companies said the coalition is a result conversations that came out of a “Fake Reviews” conference that was organized by Tripadvisor and held last year in San Francisco. They said they will meet in early December at a second conference that will be organized by Amazon and held in Brussels.

Supreme Court rejects North Carolina’s appeal in dispute over undercover animal rights activists The Associated Press WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Monday rejected North Carolina’s appeal in a dispute with animal rights groups over a law aimed at preventing undercover employees at farms and other workplaces from taking documents or recording video.

The justices left in placea legal victory for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals in its challenge to the state law, which was enacted in 2015.

PETA has said it had wanted to conduct an undercover investigation at testing laboratories at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill but feared prosecution under the “Property Protection Act.” In a 2-1 decision, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in February that the law could not be enforced against PETA — and likely others in similar situations — when its undercover work is being performed to conduct newsgathering activities.

“People have a right to know about illegal and unethical conduct. Exposing unsafe or inhumane practices and working conditions is essential to holding powerful bad actors accountable for the harm they cause,” said David Muraskin, a lawyer with FarmSTAND — representing PETA and other groups that challenged the law. A PETA attorney separately also praised Monday’s refusal.

The law is similar to so-called state ag-gag laws — aimed at gagging undercover activists who record footage of the animal agriculture industry — that

STRIKE from page A9

stop playing games and get a deal done.”

He threatened to strike and close Ford’s Rouge truck complex in Dearborn. “It’s not the UAW and Ford against foreign automakers. It’s autoworkers everywhere against corporate greed,” Fain said in a statement.

At the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan, west of Detroit, few workers are on the picket lines Monday afternoon said they listened to Ford’s speech.

When told what Ford said about investing in the future, line worker Steve Applebee said

AP PHOTO

The U.S. Supreme Court is seen, Oct. 5, 2023, in Washington. have been struck down by several courts around the country over free speech concerns. The Supreme Court has so far refused to weigh in.

The majority opinion at the 4th Circuit had narrowed a 2020 ruling by a trial court judge who had struck down four provisions in the law related to the potentially secretive activities.

State lawyers for Attorney General Josh Stein, a defendant in the case along with

UNC-Chapel Hill’s chancellor, had asked the Supreme Court to take up the matter. So did the North Carolina Farm Bureau Federation, which also defended the law in court.

Stein’s office had told the justices there were conflicting decisions among circuits “about whether audio-visual recording always constitutes protected speech or whether recording may be unprotected when it takes place on nonpublic prop-

erty without the property owner’s consent.”

Muraskin said Monday that reversing that decision would have had a chilling effect on whistleblowers and undercover investigations of many kinds, including those of sexual harassment.

N.C. Farm Bureau attorney Jake Parker called Monday’s decision not to hear the case “disappointing and troubling” and expressed hope that the North

Carolina legislature would “step up again and protect our fundamental rights to privacy and property.”

“Meanwhile, farmers and other business owners should consider themselves activist targets and take caution when hiring new employees,” Parker said.

A spokesperson for Stein, the state’s top law enforcement officer, said his office was reviewing Monday’s decision and its implications.

he agreed. “I get that,” he said. “I can see both sides.”

But he also said Ford is paying CEO Farley $21 million per year when starting pay for Ford factory workers is up only about $3 per hour from when he started with the company 31 years ago.

Ford’s offer of a 23% general wage increase barely covers inflation over the last three or four years, said Applebee, 59.

Carlos Hollins 47, of Detroit, who just started with Ford in July and is at the low end of the pay scale, said workers gave up raises in 2008 when Ford and the others were in financial trouble. They were promised that

concessions would be restored when the company recovered.

“We shouldn’t have to suffer, especially for the retirees,” he said. “They need to pay us what we deserve.”

The union has said retirees haven’t received a pension increase for at least a decade.

Hollins said workers should get everything they are asking for, and Ford has enough money to pay it.

The speech from Ford arrives with the entire auto industry making a historic and expensive shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles.

Fain has said Ford and crosstown rivals General Motors and

Jeep maker Stellantis are making billions in profits, and that workers should get a share. He says the workers should be repaid for sacrificing general pay raises, cost of living adjustments and agreeing to lower wage tiers to keep the companies afloat during the Great Recession.

The union began striking at targeted factories after its contracts with the companies expired. It started picketing one assembly plant from each company, but that has since spread to 38 parts warehouses at GM and Jeep maker Stellantis. The UAW later added another assembly plant at both GM and Ford and on Wednesday, Fain

made the surprise announcement that the union would walk out at the Kentucky plant, which makes Super Duty pickups and large Ford and Lincoln SUVs. About 34,000 of the union’s 146,000 employees at all three automakers are now on strike.

The seemingly widening labor rift suggests Ford and the union may be in for a lengthy strike that could cost the company and its workers billions of dollars.

The union has said Ford’s general wage offer is up to 23% over four years and that it has reinstated cost of living raises. GM and Stellantis were at 20%. But Fain said none is high enough.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Bank of America profits jump 10% but warns of slowing spending by Americans The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — Bank of America posted a 10% rise in third quarter profits Tuesday, helped by higher interest rates that allowed the bank to charge more for loans at the same time that it kept expenses under control.

However, CEO Brian Moynihan warned Tuesday that Americans continue to slow their spending after burning through pandemic savings, and now face higher costs due to inflation.

The Charlotte, N.C., bank earned a profit of $7.8 billion,

or 90 cents per share, which is 13 cents better than Wall Street had expected, according to a survey of analysts by FactSet. It also tops last year’s $7.1 billion profit, or 81 cents per share, in the same period.

Most of the higher profits came from higher interest rates on loans, with net interest income coming in at $14.4 billion, compared with $13.76 billion a year earlier.

With much of the savings gone from the pandemic, consumers are turning more heavily to credit cards to manage their expenses. BofA saw credit card balances rise to $98 bil-

lion in the quarter, compared with $85 billion a year ago. The bank also saw higher charge offs this quarter, or money it doesn’t expect to recover from credit card use.

“We did this in a healthy but slowing economy that saw US consumer spending still ahead of last year but continuing to slow,” said Moynihan in a prepared statement.

Investment banking and trading at BofA also did well in the quarter. The bank saw revenues from stock trading rise 10% to $1.7 billion in the quarter, with zero days of trading losses in the last 90 days.

AP PHOTO

In this Dec. 7, 2012 photo, a woman passes a Bank of America office branch, in New York.

Bank of America reports earnings on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. .

The Commerce Department updates its policies to stop China from getting advanced computer chips The Associated Press WASHINGTON — The Commerce Department on Tuesday updated and broadened its export controls to stop China from acquiring advanced computer chips and the equipment to manufacture them.

The revisions come roughly a year after the export controls were first launched to counter the use of the chips for military applications that include the development of hypersonic missiles and artificial intelligence.

“These export controls are intended to protect technologies that have clear national security or human rights implications,” Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said on a call with reporters. “The vast majority of semiconductors will remain unrestricted. But when we identify national security or human rights threats, we will act decisively and in concert with our allies.”

The updates stemmed from consulting with industry and conducting technological analyses. There will now be a gray zone that will be monitored for chips that could still be used for military aims even if they might not meet the thresholds for trade limitations.

The updates also introduce new requirements that make it more difficult for China to manufacture advanced chips abroad.

The list of manufacturing equipment that falls under the export controls has also been expanded,

among other changes to the policy.

The export controls announced last year were a source of frustration for the Chinese government, which viewed the design and manufacturing of high-level semiconductors as essential for its economic and geopolitical goals. Raimondo has said the limits on these chips are not designed to impair China’s economic growth.

In an August meeting, Raimondo and her Chinese counterparts agreed to exchange information about the export controls. But a senior administration official, insisting on anonymity to discuss the policy, said the U.S. government did not discuss with China the parameters of the revised export controls.

China’s No. 2 leader, Premier Li Qiang, appealed for “concrete actions” by Washington to improve relations, a reference to Chinese pressure for changes in U.S. policy on technology, Taiwan and other issues.

Chinese government officials are scheduled to go to San Francisco in November for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

President Joe Biden has suggested he could meet on the sidelines of the summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, though a meeting has yet to be confirmed.

The two leaders met last year following the Group of 20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, shortly after the export controls were announced.

AP PHOTO

The Pfizer logo is displayed at the company’s headquarters, Friday, Feb. 5, 2021, in New York. Shares of Pfizer are falling before the market opened on Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, as the company cut its full-year outlook, citing declining sales of its COVID-19-related products.

Pfizer trims expectations for 2023 with sales of COVID-19 vaccine, treatment, weaker than thought The Associated Press NEW YORK — Shares of Pfizer are in retreat on the first day of trading after the drug company said sales of its COVID-19 vaccine and its coronavirus treatment are weaker than it had expected and cut revenue projections by $9 billion for the year.

Falling sales of both clipped sales in the second quarter, but Pfizer said in August that it expected a rebound in the second half of 2023.

Shares of Pfizer slipped more than 1% before the opening bell Monday and Moderna, which is heavily reliant on the competing vaccine it makes, slid nearly 5%.

Pfizer said Friday that global usage of Paxlovid is trending slightly above last year, but that it’s still below expectations.

The fall vaccination period just began and the New York City drugmaker said that it’s too soon to get a handle on vaccination rates for the year.

Full-year revenue for Paxlovid

and Comirnaty is expected to be approximately $12.5 billion, short $9 billion of what it had expected.

Pfizer is lowering its full-year revenue expectations for Paxlovid by approximately $7 billion. That number also accounts for delayed commercialization of the product, which was pushed to January 2024 from the company’s previous expectation of commercialization in the second half of this year. Pfizer is also lowering its 2023 revenue

expectations for Comirnaty by approximately $2 billion due to lower-than-expected vaccination rates.

Pfizer Inc. now foresees 2023 revenue in a range of $58 billion to $61 billion, down from its prior forecast for $67 billion to $70 billion. It now projects full-year adjusted earnings between $1.45 and $1.65 per share due to lower-than-anticipated revenue for COVID-19-related products and inventory write-offs.

That is short of the full-year

revenue of $63.61 billion and earnings of $2.77 per share that Wall Street was expecting, and far short of the company’s previous projections of per-share earning between $3.25 and $3.45.

JPMorgan said the company’s update solves an ongoing U.S. Paxlovid inventory debate and it anticipates the company’s bigger-than-expected cuts to its sales projections will help put a floor under per-share earnings expectations for next year.

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

A4

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

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Anti-semitism, Hamas, ‘nones’ and American evangelical Christians

Evangelicals believe Jews are God’s “chosen people” — and we Gentiles are blessed cousins to have been allowed salvation through faith in Jesus.

WHERE IS ALL THIS animosity and antisemitic hatred towards Jews coming from in America today?

It is emanating right from the heart of the modern Democratic Party ― from the uber-progressive left-wing. The depth and width of anti-semitism in the Democratic Party even had Jake Tapper on CNN shaking his head in wonder as if no one ever saw it coming.

“Hamas” means “violence” in Hebrew in case anyone needs to understand the evil facing Israel today.

Why is it so “surprising” to anyone in the media, the Democratic Party or anywhere else that these progressive socialist Democrats are so antagonistic towards Jews and Israel?

Close to 30% of Democrats today say they are either atheist, agnostic or have no religious faith, all grouped together under the “None” category.

“Nones” are not getting any spiritual or historical training from churches or synagogues today. God forbid any such theological education is offered in public schools or on college campuses.

Is there any wonder why they don’t think Israel has any special extraordinary place in world history? Nones don’t believe there is a God, Yahweh, in the first place. To them, Israel is just another imperialist conqueror of poor, downtrodden Palestinians even though there has never been Palestinian rule in the region since the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land over three thousand years ago.

As recently as 1960, 91% of American Democrats professed to have religious faith and were considered solid reliable defenders of Israel. Close to 80% of Jewish voters still vote for Democrats, apparently believing this is still their grandparents’ Democratic Party.

It most definitely is not. By contrast, the strongest support in America for Jews and Israel for the past half century has come from Bible-believing evangelical Christian Republicans.

Why is that?

Evangelical Christians believe everything in the Old Testament ― just as Torah-believing Jews do. They believe God provided a ram to be sacrificed by Abraham instead of his son, Isaac. They believe Isaac’s son, Jacob, wrestled with an angel and was given a new name, Israel. Evangelicals believe the burning bush spoke to Moses; the Red Sea parted for the exodus of the Jews from Egypt and every other act of God recorded in the twenty-four books of the Old Testament.

Evangelicals believe Jews are God’s “chosen people” ― and we Gentiles are blessed cousins to have been allowed salvation through faith in Jesus as detailed in the New Testament.

Ask any evangelical Christian what they think about God protecting Israel and they will rip off a litany of biblical stories as historical proof Israel where God delivered Israel from destruction. They will go on to say America should do everything humanly possible to help them survive, even though they know God miraculously has delivered Israel numerous times through His divine intercession.

To name one notable instance, Gideon took 32,000 men of Israel to go against the huge Midianite army of 135,000 soldiers. 22,000 left because they were afraid and did not trust God would deliver victory. Of the 10,000 left, Gideon chose only 300 after they scooped up water with their hands out of the nearby spring instead of lapping it up like a dog. When Gideon gave the signal, the 300-man Israeli army broke clay pots and blew horns. The sleeping soldiers of Midian were so startled when they awoke, they began fighting each other amidst the confusion and were routed by the tiny Israelite army.

Non-believers will scoff and say any miraculous victory by Israel in the Bible is a made-up legend or mythology which never actually happened. For more recent proof of God’s deliverance of Israel in the face of arrayed Arab armies, Israel defeated Egypt, Syria and Jordan in the Six Days War in June of 1967 and annexed the entire Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza strip now under attack. In October 1973, Israel again defeated the much-larger allied Arab forces and almost pushed into Egypt before a ceasefire was implemented.

Both underdog victories are viewed by evangelical Christians and the world that God must surely have been at work protecting Israel. We can pray He does it again.

There is no prohibition against praying for deliverance from enemies in the Old Testament. There is no prohibition against praying Hamas will turn against Hezbollah and Iran just like the Midianites did to themselves. Unless you want to go join the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), you can pray this prayer from Psalms every day: “Deliver Israel, O Lord, from the evil man; preserve them from the violent man…Grant not the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves…Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into deep pits, that they rise not up again.”

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

NC Democratic Party strangely silent on Israel-Hamas war

The NC Democratic Party, much like the national party, has at the very least an anti-Israel problem and at worst an anti-Semitism problem.

AFTER THE TERRORIST ATTACKS by Hamas against Israeli civilians began earlier this month, there was condemnation across the political spectrum in the United States Congress for what amounted to an act of war.

Some Congressional Democrats, however, took a blame-the-victim approach, with Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) saying peace could not happen in the region until the U.S. ended “government support for Israeli military occupation and apartheid.”

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), whose parents are Palestinian immigrants, said, “As long as our country provides billions in unconditional funding to support the apartheid government, this heartbreaking cycle of violence will continue.”

The approach taken by North Carolina Democrats has also led to questions about just how divided they are as a party on the issue of support for Israel in response to the brutal attacks from Hamas which saw hostages taken, women raped and paraded naked through the streets, and infants murdered — with some of them being beheaded.

Gov. Roy Cooper has expressed “strong support and solidarity with the Israeli people” and ordered flags at half-staff, and Attorney General Josh Stein, a 2024 gubernatorial candidate, tweeted “I stand with Israel.”

But if you look at the North Carolina Democratic Party’s Twitter and Facebook pages, as of this writing you see not one post written even addressing the conflict in the Middle East, much less expressing support for Israel.

On the Twitter page of NC Dem Party chair Anderson Clayton, there was a whole lot of self-promotion, some tweets about supporting labor unions, a couple of acknowledgments about “Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” and mentions of the lawsuit Democrats are filing over SB 747, which they have predictably described as a “voter suppression bill.”

The lone mention of the Israel-Hamas war was a retweet she did of Cooper’s original statement.

Meanwhile, 12 state House Democrats decided to stage a walkout last week during the vote on a resolution in support of Israel.

As North State Journal reported, the “12 Democrat members” who

walked out were Reps. John Autry (Mecklenburg County), Amber Baker (Forsyth), Gloristine Brown (Pitt) Kanika Brown (Forsyth), Maria Cervania (Wake), Terence Everitt (Wake), Pricey Harrison (Guilford), Nasif Majeed (Mecklenburg), Marcia Morey (Durham), Renee Price (Orange), Diamond Staton-Williams (Cabarrus), and Julie von Haefen (Wake).

On the Senate side, four Democrats refused to sign on to a statement of support for Israel. They were Sens. Julie Mayfield (D-Buncombe), Graig Meyer (D-Orange), Mujtaba Mohammed (D-Mecklenburg), and Natalie Murdock (D-Durham).

The North Carolina Democratic Party has in recent years been gripped by an increasing strain of anti-Israelism within its ranks, as evidenced by a series of resolutions they adopted in 2022, one of which alleged without evidence that Israel was engaging in “apartheid” against the Palestinian people.

Similar resolutions were attempted this year but the most controversial ones were dropped from consideration after heated debate.

Several of the Democrats in the House and Senate who turned their backs on showing support for Israel issued statements to the media explaining why they chose to do so, including some who suggested that they didn’t feel like it was a responsibility of the state legislature to weigh in on foreign policy.

Rest assured, however, had the shoe been on the other foot and had Israel been the one who was the aggressor, those same Democrats would be singing a much different tune.

The NC Democratic Party, much like the national party, has at the very least an anti-Israel problem and at worst an anti-Semitism problem. And unless it gets fixed, rank-and-file Democrat voters who support Israel but who have also remained loyal to the party despite this growing problem should ask themselves if it is worth it to continue to be affiliated with people who seem to be so conflicted over how and even if to take a stand.

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

Playoffs within grasp for Charlotte FC, B3

AP PHOTO

Defensive back Brandon Johnson and Duke will need to slow Florida State’s high-powered offense when the teams meet Saturday in Tallahassee.

NBA

Duke prepares for next ‘biggest ever’ game

Hornets’ Bridges booked after latest brush with law

Blue Devils face No. 4 FSU in battle for the ACC lead

Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges turned himself in Friday after an arrest warrant was issued for an alleged protection order violation stemming from a domestic violence case last year. Bridges, accompanied by his attorney, turned himself in early in the morning in Lincoln County. Bridges appeared before a district court judge and was released on $1,000 bond. The 25-year-old Bridges had been in Washington, D.C., on Thursday night as the Hornets played the Wizards in a preseason game, according to a team spokesman. Bridges did not play because he is suspended by the league. The warrant had originally been issued on Jan. 2 but had not previously been served. Bridges “unlawfully” and “knowingly” violated the protection order, and “continually contacted the victim,” according to court documents made public Friday.

Bridges is currently serving a 10-game suspension from the NBA to begin the season. It remains to be seen if Bridges could face further discipline from the league.

The Associated Press

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Duke ranked No. 2 in preseason college hoops poll New York Kansas received 46 of 63 first-place votes to outdistance second-place Duke and third-place Purdue to be ranked No. 1 in The Associated Press men’s college basketball preseason poll released Monday. The Blue Devils received 11 first-place votes and the Boilermakers earned three.

Michigan State was fourth with one first-place vote while Marquette rounded out the top five. Defending national champion UConn was sixth.

UNC is ranked 19th in the first poll of the season, but no other schools from North Carolina received any votes.

FOR THE THIRD time in two months, Duke is preparing for the biggest game in program history.

The Blue Devils beat No. 9 Clemson on a national stage in the opener, putting up a program-defining win. That set up a 4-0 start, leading to an even bigger game, against No. 11 Notre Dame. Duke nearly upset the Irish, losing on a heartbreaking last-minute play.

A blowout of NC State last week puts the Blue Devils at 5-1, 2-0 in the conference and ready to play No. 4 Florida State, which sits atop the league at 6-0, 4-0, in a road game with the highest stakes any living Duke player,

coach or fan has seen.

“The Clemson game was the opener, right?” Duke coach Mike Elko asked rhetorically. “So, there wasn’t a ton of finality to that one. It was just two teams that were playing on a national stage for the first time, trying to establish themselves. And as big as the Notre Dame game was and as huge of a stage that was, that was still a nonconference opportunity.

“Now you’re playing a primetime game between two unbeaten teams in the ACC, and at the end of this, someone’s going to have a clearer path to Charlotte than the other one. That’s something that’s critical and that’s not lost on anybody in our locker room. It is an in-league, big stage, big opportunity for our guys to go kind of rise up to and take advantage of.”

It’s an old football adage — as

“We haven’t done this on the road yet. So, we’ll have to go do that and there’ll be a new challenge for us to kind of rise to.”

Mike Elko, Duke coach you keep winning, the games get bigger, the spotlight brighter, the stakes higher and the challenge more daunting.

It’s a lesson that Clemson has learned over the last 10 years as the Tigers became regular contenders for the College Football Playoff. Notre Dame has known it since the leather helmet era as one of the most recognizable programs in college football and all of sports.

It’s also something Florida State learned generations ago.

Saturday won’t be the biggest game in program history for the Seminoles. It’s not even the biggest of the season for FSU — that would be a 45-24 win over thenNo. 5 LSU in Atlanta to open the season. An overtime win over Clemson at Death Valley might also been a bigger game. And, if the Noles keep winning, the prospect of playing for an ACC title and a trip to the CFP might knock the Duke game from 2023 Florida State’s top five.

“I mean, there’s always going to be pressure,” said Seminoles coach Mike Norvell. “If you don’t play good, there’s going to be pressure on that end. If you are playing good, there’s going to be pressure to continue improvement and getting better. … Do I think there’s players that feel the pressure? Oh, man, we’re 6-0, here we go, we got to do this, this.

Yeah, it’s human nature to want to continue.

“But ultimately, it’s still about you can’t get focused on the outside and the exterior. If you’re willing to give your attention to that, the pressure that comes See DUKE, page B3

Panthers hit bye week with changes on horizon With coach Frank Reich already under pressure, Carolina has a new voice calling offensive plays

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE GOOD NEWS is the Carolina Panthers won’t lose this week. That’s because the team has its bye week.

The bad news? Virtually everything else swirling around the 0-6 Panthers.

The stumble out of the gate doesn’t have fans longing for the days of Matt Rhule, but it’s safe to say everyone hoped the Frank Reich/Bryce Young era would have a better first act.

The Panthers are the NFL’s only remaining winless team, and if anyone is hoping that it gives Carolina a head start on tanking for a top pick to add to Young, last year’s No. 1 overall choice, we have some bad news: The Panthers dealt away their first-round pick in this year’s draft to move up to take Young.

Despite being just six games into his tenure as Panthers coach, Reich is already appear-

AP PHOTO

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young will have a new person calling plays for him following the bye week after coach Frank Reich announced he was handing the reins of the offense to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. ing in “coaches on the hot seat” speculation in national outlets.

That’s because owner David Tepper is showing no signs that he’s willing to patiently wait for Reich’s plan to develop Young and get the Panthers back to

winning again to bear fruit.

Last week, Reich admitted that he has weekly meetings with Tepper to discuss the most recent game. And they sound as painful to endure as some of the team’s games this season.

“It hasn’t been fun,” Reich said. “I wouldn’t characterize them as fun meetings. But those meetings make me better, and I trust they make us better.”

Reich went on to say that Tepper is not one to “sit idly by.”

“Some owners kind of stay away and don’t engage a whole lot. Other owners do. And his philosophy is he’s going to engage,” Reich said.

Tepper also doesn’t seem like one to welcome negative publicity, like his coach telling everyone about their post-loss come-to-David meetings.

Another sign that Reich may not be on firm ground is the first domino to fall during the bye week. On Monday, Reich announced that he would no longer be calling plays for the team, turning the duties over to 37-year-old coordinator Thomas Brown.

Brown, a former assistant of Sean McVay, is considered a rising coaching star in the NFL. So it was likely only a matter of time before Reich handed off the responsibility.

See PANTHERS, page B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

B2 WEDNESDAY

10.18.23

TRENDING

Alyssa Nakken: The first woman to coach on the field in a major league game has now interviewed for a managerial job. Nakken, who worked first base for San Francisco in April 2022, has interviewed for the Giants managerial vacancy. The 33-year-old Nakken has been a coach on the Giants staff since Gabe Kapler, who was fired after going 295-248 over three-plus seasons, hired her in January 2020.

Damien Harris: The Bills running back has full movement after suffering a neck injury in Buffalo’s 14-9 win Sunday over the Giants, Buffalo coach Sean McDermott said after the game.

Harris was hurt after being tackled by linebacker Bobby Okereke on a 1-yard gain in the second quarter and flashed a thumbs-up sign before being loaded into the ambulance.

Derion Kendrick: The Rams cornerback was arrested early Monday on a felony charge of carrying a concealed weapon several hours after Los Angeles’ home win over Arizona.

TMZ reported that officers found a gun and marijuana in Kendrick’s car following a traffic stop.

The 23-year-old Kendrick, a native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, who played collegiately at Clemson and Georgia, was a sixth-round pick by the Rams in 2022.

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NASCAR

Kyle Larson edged Christopher Bell at Las Vegas on Sunday to become the first driver locked into the Cup Series’ championship race. The 2021 Cup champion earned the first of four spots in the Nov. 5 title-deciding finale. The win capped a week for Larson in which he began his preparations for next year’s Indianapolis 500. Larson plans to run both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 next May.

BEN MCKEOWN | AP PHOTO

“We just didn’t execute, man.”

NC State football coach Dave Doeren following the Wolfpack’s 24-3 loss Saturday at Duke.

STEVE MARCUS | AP PHOTO

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

GOLF

DARRON CUMMINGS | AP PHOTO

BILL KOSTROUN | AP PHOTO

“I don’t know that we’ve maybe played a worse game ever.”

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour after Carolina’s 6-5 shootout win over the Kings on Saturday.

Miami guard Haley Cavinder has entered the transfer portal six months after she and her twin sister, Hanna, announced they wouldn’t play the 2023-24 season. The Cavinder twins were among the biggest beneficiaries in the name, image and likeness era of college athletics, boasting more the 4.5 million TikTok followers.

NATHAN W. AMES | AP PHOTO

Eleven-time PGA Tour winner Andy Bean died Saturday after complications from a double lung replacement surgery. Bean was 70.

His best year was in 1978 when he won three times, and he played in his first Ryder Cup a year later. Bean also won three times on the PGA Tour Champions.

NFL

PRIME NUMBER

55,646 Fans at the “Crossover at Kinnick” women’s basketball outdoor exhibition between DePaul and Iowa, nearly doubling the previous record of 29,619 to see a women’s basketball game.

DARRON CUMMINGS | AP PHOTO

Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson could face season-ending surgery on his injured right shoulder, and owner Jim Irsay said the fourth overall pick will “probably” miss the rest of the season.

Richardson sat out Sunday at Jacksonville, missing his second game of the season, and was diagnosed with a sprained AC joint and put on injured reserve after being hurt Oct. 8 against the Titans.

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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Charlotte FC controls playoff destiny in final two games

“I’m sure if and when we get (to the playoffs) we’ll be a team that no one will want to play.”

Ashley Westwood, Charlotte FC captain

The Crown’s postseason hopes hinge on two matches against Inter Miami

By Jesse Deal North State Journal THE PATH FORWARD is simple.

Win and you’re in.

Charlotte FC controls its destiny heading into its final series of the regular season, a home-andhome with Inter Miami. Wins in both matches and the second-year team will guarantee itself not only its first playoff berth but also home-field advantage for the single-elimination wild card.

“We’re hitting form at the right time and we’re playing well,” said Charlotte FC captain Ashley Westwood following the team’s 2-0 win over Chicago. “We’re dominating teams, and when we play well, we’re a real force to be reckoned with. The way we control games, and we’re starting to score goals now too. So everything’s clicking at the right time, and I’m sure if and when we get there we’ll be a team that no one will want to play.”

The Crown currently sits in 11th place in the East with 39 points but is just one point back of the ninth spot, currently held

by D.C. United with 40 points, and two points back of the eighth spot, currently held by CF Montreal with 41 points.

Last year, in Charlotte’s inaugural season, the playoffs featured only the top seven teams from each conference, but the league expanded the postseason for 2023, including a single-elim-

AP PHOTO

Charlotte FC controls its playoff destiny with two regular season games — both against Inter Miami — remaining. ination wild card match between the eighth- and ninth-seeded teams from each conference.

The top seven spots in the East are already locked in, but Charlotte can finish the highest out of all the remaining teams in the wild card hunt as they have two games remaining on their schedule compared to the rest who have just one or none left.

The Crown could know as early as Wednesday night if they’re in as a win — which is good for three points in the standings — followed by losses for CF Montre-

al, New York Red Bulls and the Chicago Fire FC would do the job.

There are a handful of other clinching scenarios, but the easiest path forward for the Crown is to win both games.

Standing in their way is an Inter Miami squad that recently saw its playoff hopes dashed.

“We’re going to prepare our game as strong as we can like we’ve always done,” said Charlotte FC coach Christian Lattanzio, “learning the lessons that we have learned and keeping on the standards that we are trying to

build with this football club.”

Charlotte has faced Inter Miami one other time this season, losing 4-0 in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals earlier in the year.

Despite that performance, there should be quite a big difference on the pitch Wednesday.

Inter Miami will likely be without legendary footballer Lionel Messi for at least one match as the forward is currently with Argentina for international play and has a match against Peru on Tuesday night.

Messi may be back in time for

Sunday’s closer at Bank of America Stadium, but Charlotte at least won’t have to face one of the sport’s greatest in Miami.

“We have been playing our game most of the time, and so we want to keep our identity,” Lattanzio said. “Whether we play at home or we play away, we have to respect the opposition, especially when they have very good players like most teams in MLS, but obviously especially Miami with Messi if he plays. At the same time, we need to respect, more than anything, ourselves, our identity, our supporters and we need to give our club’s best possible effort for the next game and the one after.”

Inter Miami is 11-1-1 with Messi in the lineup since he joined the team but just 1-4-2 without him, and the herons have lost their last four to slip out of the playoff picture.

Charlotte nearly slid out of the picture themselves with just a single win in 10 games heading into the Leagues Cup break, but a 3-2-4 run since has put them on the precipice of the postseason.

“People had written us off weeks ago, but we knew how well we were playing, we knew what we were doing to teams on the pitch, and we knew what we could do,” Westwood said. “We’ve stuck to it under difficult circumstances, and it just shows the character that we’ve got. We’re heading up to another massive game, but that’s what we targeted in the last two games. To be in with a chance.”

Charlotte, ECU first meeting a battle of 1-win teams The Pirates and 49ers are both looking for stability and an identity on offense

thing together, and we’re 1-5,” he said. “There is only one person to point at, and that’s me.”

“We’re at a seminal moment in the season, and we’re going to find out who and what we are. … We’re going to find out a lot about our character in the

next six weeks because when you’re losing football games, it’s really hard. This is part of our pedagogy and why we are here and what we’re teaching. You will know in the next six weeks whether I have what it takes to fix it or not.”

Following ECU’s home loss to the Mustangs, fifth-year coach Mike Houston pointed to his team’s inability to close out games in the fourth quarter as a reason for its 1-5 start.

“Every game except Michigan, right? It’s pretty frustrating,” Houston said of his team

being within one score entering the final quarter in four of its five losses. “That’s the difference between winning and losing, finishing ball games, playing when the pressure is on.

“We’ve been able to do that a lot in the past, but we haven’t been able to do that yet this year.

We have to find a way to do that.

We’ve got a great opportunity next Saturday to have another game at home, and we’ll be focused on getting ready for our next opponent this weekend.”

With the stakes high for both coaches, Saturday’s game has the potential to start up a conference rivalry between two schools that are less than four hours apart.

There is a bit of added history as well.

In 2018, Charlotte athletic director Mike Hill reportedly offered Houston a contract to leave his job at James Madison to replace Brad Lambert and become the 49ers’ coach.

Two days later, the Niners officially withdrew their offer to Houston because he was considering other offers, including one from East Carolina that he eventually accepted. Charlotte went on to hire Will Healy, who went 7-6 and reached a bowl game in 2019 but was fired last fall after a 1-7 start to the season.

Over in Greenville, Houston led the Pirates to their first bowl win since 2013 last season but has compiled a 23-29 overall record, and some fans are beginning to question if he’s the man for the job.

In a season filled with losses, one side will enter the season’s stretch run with some momentum after a win in a burgeoning rivalry.

I bet we’re not giving up 10 points a game midway through the season,” Elko said. “I don’t think I would have called that. So maybe the performance of the group is exceeding expectations.”

Elko’s defense will face its toughest challenge of the season in a Florida State team that is averaging 42.2 points, No. 7 in the nation and 11 points more than the Blue Devils — and the availability of star quarterback Riley

Leonard for the game is still in question. The Noles have scored at least 30 points in 12 straight games, the second-longest active streak in football and second-longest in ACC history.

“There’s a challenge of being on the road that creates a whole different type of atmosphere and environment and level of emotions that you’ve got to push through,” Elko said of his team’s latest challenge. “I think our team is now

used to going through a week where they’re talking about the game that we’re going to play. I think they’re used to having the idea of what a spotlight game is.

But we haven’t done this on the road yet. So we’ll have to go do that, and there’ll be a new challenge for us to kind of rise to.”

And if Duke manages to rise to the challenge, then the biggest game in program history lurks somewhere down the road.

By Jesse Deal North State Journal THE AMERICAN ATHLETIC Conference’s two North Carolina teams will face each other for the first time this weekend when East Carolina hosts Charlotte in Greenville.

ECU is coming off a 31-10 home loss to SMU, while Charlotte suffered a 14-0 shutout loss to Navy at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Both teams will be looking for their first win against an FBS opponent this season after starting 1-5 with 0-2 records in the AAC. Oddsmakers currently have the Pirates as a 7.5-point home favorite over the 49ers when the two teams meet at 2 p.m. Saturday at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium.

The two teams have underperformed for similar reasons — competent defenses undercut by struggling offenses.

On the defensive side of the ball, the 49ers rank 76th, allowing 382 yards, while the Pirates are 31st at 332 yards allowed per game.

Offense is another story.

Charlotte is averaging 304 yards of offense a game, 123rd in the country, while ECU’s 125thranked offense totals 302 yards per game — and both teams have shuffled quarterbacks through the first six games of the season.

Dual-threat quarterbacks Jalon Jones of Charlotte and Mason Garcia of ECU have had success running the ball but have struggled with passing

DUKE from page B1

with that, you’re going to miss out on the opportunity to grow and get better throughout the journey, the week, the game.”

Aside from the stakes and the pressure, the game promises to be a compelling matchup on Saturday night. Florida State has one of the nation’s top defenses.

The Noles are allowing just 18.3 points per game, which ranks

AP PHOTO

Charlotte’s Jalon Jones has struggled in the passing game, leading coach Biff Poggi to try other options at quarterback in his first season leading the 49ers. consistency.

Meanwhile, traditional passers Trexler Ivey of the Niners and the Pirates’ Alex Flinn haven’t performed well in the passing game either, combining for 10 interceptions and just three touchdowns.

After Charlotte’s shutout loss to the Midshipmen, first-year coach Biff Poggi said he would consider trying out sophomore Oklahoma transfer Micah Bowens behind center, but he also took the blame for the team’s overall struggles.

“I’m the guy that put this

them in the top 25. They have one of the best red zone defenses and lead the ACC in defensive touchdowns.

Duke’s defense is even better.

The Blue Devils are allowing half as many points as FSU, good for No. 4 in the nation. The Blue Devils are also No. 2 nationally in red zone defense.

“I think the performance of our defense — I don’t know that I would have sat here and told you

“There is only one person to point at, and that’s me.”

Biff Poggi, Charlotte coach

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

What does science say about grass vs. turf debate in sports?

There has been a push by athletes for natural surfaces The Associated Press WHICH PLAYING surface is safer for athletes: natural grass or artificial turf?

The question is important not just in football, but also for soccer, recreational sports and high school and college athletics — anywhere athletes make sudden shifts in direction that can twist joints and tear ligaments.

Scientists continue to study the question, but there are challenges to getting the answer right. There are variables to take into account: the player’s age and physical shape, weather and surface conditions, the type of shoes and whether the injuries involved contact with other players. And surfaces have changed over the years with new technology.

The debate was revived when Aaron Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon during an NFL game on artificial turf. Although Rodgers’ injury may have been just as likely on grass because of the circumstances, that hasn’t stopped the wrangling.

What does the science say and what are the challenges?

Looking back at injury rates Some studies look back at injury rates while making adjustments for other factors that could be in play. That type of study is good but will never be able to keep up with innovation, said Dr. Calvin Hwang, a team doctor for Stanford’s football players and the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team.

“There’s always evolving technology (with both) grass but especially with artificial turf,” Hwang said. “The newer generation turfs may be safer than older generation turfs. And so studies that were done five or six years ago may not be including some of those newer generation turfs.”

Still, Hwang, who treats players who play home games on grass, said the research he’s seen leads him to believe that grass is

AP PHOTO

Panthers offensive guard Greg Van Roten slides during a game in 2018. NFL players continue to push for having natural grass fields in all stadiums for their safety. safer.

Recently, a group of researchers reviewed studies on the topic.

They looked at 53 articles published between 1972 and 2020, on injuries in professional and amateur sports, including football, soccer, rugby, field hockey and ultimate Frisbee. The authors didn’t specify whether the studies included injuries involving a direct blow from another player or just noncontact injuries.

The studies suggest “a higher rate of foot and ankle injuries on artificial turf, both old-generation and new-generation turf, compared to natural grass,” they wrote in a paper published last year in the American Journal of Sports Medicine. Knee and hip injuries were similar on both surfaces, they wrote. The authors noted that studies reporting a higher rate of injury on grass received financial support from the artificial turf industry.

Similar findings were reported in a separate study that analyzed 4,801 NFL foot and leg injuries during 2012-16 regular season games. That research

found 16% more injuries per play on artificial turf compared to grass. The authors concluded that if all games had been played on grass during that period there would have been 319 fewer foot and leg injuries. Looking only at noncontact injuries the risk was even higher, about 20% more injuries per play.

The debate In the NFL, the players’ union prefers grass and has been pushing for it. The NFL says some artificial turf fields are safer than some grass fields and wants to reduce injuries on all surfaces.

About half the NFL stadiums use artificial turf.

Both sides use the same data on noncontact injury rates but have interpreted the figures differently.

The data collected for the NFL and players union is not publicly available. The company that analyzes the data, IQVIA, did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Artificial turf is made from plastic fibers that resemble grass

with a cushioning infill made of granulated rubber, sand, cork or coconut fiber.

“The upside of turf is that players feel more nimble, they feel faster,” said Dr. Brian Cole, orthopedic surgeon and team doctor for the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. “The downside is they’re faster. It’s a collision sport. Velocity goes up and collisions go up.”

Shoe cleats and surfaces Dr. Joseph Donnelly has repaired numerous torn ACLs in female high school soccer players in the Bay Area where most high school athletes play on artificial turf. Studies have shown that female athletes are more likely than males to suffer ACL injuries in sports such as soccer that require sudden changes in direction.

“It’s an epidemic,” said Donnelly, an orthopedic surgeon at Stanford Health Care. “When these ladies tear their ACLs, we fix them, we send them back and then they’re actually more likely to tear their opposite ACL.”

He dug into the research. One study from 2016 used a hydraulic testing machine to simulate shoes with different style cleats pivoting on various playing surfaces. Shoes with blade-shaped cleats on artificial turf were a dangerous combination. The traction from the blade-shaped cleats increased the twisting force on the knee.

“You’re not going to be able to change the surface you play on,” Donnelly said. “So we do try to get them to use a cleat that has a favorable interaction with the turf.”

Some young athletes don’t want to give up their favorite cleats because they worry about performance on the field, he said. Like other sports medicine experts interviewed for this story, he thinks grass is safer.

“There’s no question that there is less torque when you’re on grass no matter what cleats you’re wearing,” he said.

Hybrid surfaces For big stadiums, there are financial pressures that favor artificial turf, which offers more flexibility for events like concerts. Weather and upkeep are part of the equation. A poorly maintained grass field can cause injuries.

The future may be hybrid fields. The Green Bay Packers’ Lambeau Field in Wisconsin has featured Kentucky bluegrass sod weaved in with synthetic fibers since 2018.

Grass or hybrid fields may get a boost from the 2026 World Cup. The regulations for the tournament have not yet been published, but grass has been preferred for all past men’s World Cups. Seven of the 11 U.S. venues are NFL stadiums with artificial turf. And in a recent ESPN interview, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the stadiums will be putting in hybrid surfaces for the tournament.

Grass field technology has improved, Cole said. “They can do it when it’s 110 (degrees) and they can do it when it’s 30 below zero in Green Bay. So it can be done. And I think the science is clearly enabling them to do it at this point.”

Pampling earns 2nd PGA Tour Champions win with victory at SAS Championship The final stop of the tour’s regular season was at Cary’s Prestonwood Country Club The Associated Press CARY — Rod Pampling of Australia had to play 33 holes Sunday in the rain-delayed SAS Championship at Prestwood Country Club, and it was worth every step when he finished off a 68 and then closed with a 5-under 67 for his second career PGA Tour Champions title.

The SAS Championship was the final tournament before the Charles Schwab Cup playoffs begin for the top 72 players. Pampling’s victory moved him up 13 spots to No. 17.

David Duval shot 71 and tied for 11th, just enough for him to

PANTHERS from page B1

“It’s always been part of the plan,” Reich said. “Something Thomas and I have discussed from the time that he was hired. … I knew it was not a question of if, just when. The play-calling thing is still going to be collaborative. Thomas is going to lead it. He’s in charge of it; he’ll make the call.”

Reich called Brown a “stud” in the profession and said he always thought the bye week was a good “checkpoint.” He also swore the change now was “100% my decision, from start

move up seven spots and finish at No. 71 in the Schwab Cup to qualify for the postseason.

Pampling finished with a bogey for a two-shot victory over Steven Alker, who moved up to No. 2 in the standings behind Steve Stricker.

The Australian finished off 15 holes of the second round in the morning with back-to-back birdies, and then he played bogey-free in the final round until the end, when it only affected his margin of victory.

“I just walked as slow as I could,” Pampling said. “It was a long day. We knew what we were going to be in for. Just eat the food, take your time. Thankfully, it wasn’t too quick out there.”

Pampling had a one-shot lead over Alker, Paul Broadhurst and Vijay Singh when the second

round was finished. Singh and Broadhurst fell back early in the final round, and Pampling had three birdies in a four-hole stretch around the turn to seize control.

“We’ve been working hard,” Pampling said. “We got rid of our bad stuff about a month-and-a-

half ago. Been closer and closer and this week it was just a great ball-striking week, putting well, everything. It’s a great feeling to win again.”

Ernie Els had a 68 and tied for third with Mario Tiziani, who closed with a 65.

Tiziani, the brother-in-law of Stricker, split time this year playing on the PGA Tour Champions, managing his wife’s brother and occasionally caddying for Stricker. He made it to the postseason for the second straight year and starts out at No. 42.

to finish.”

However, he also admitted it’s been a topic of discussion in his meetings with Tepper for several weeks, and making the move with the team at 0-6, averaging fewer than 19 points per game and ranked No. 23 in the NFL in passing and total offense seems less like passing the torch and more like dumping a grenade.

Reich also sounded like he had mixed feelings about giving up play-calling.

“I know it’s time, but there’s a little bit of it that’s hard, right?” he said. “Because I do like calling it. You like being right in the

middle of the action; you like being responsible in the crosshairs, good or bad. You’ve got to live with that. I’ve always loved that about this game.”

Brown is in his first season with the coordinator title and had just three years on an NFL staff prior to 2023, all with McVay’s Rams. He previously served as a college coordinator at Miami from 2016 to 2018.

Reich said he kept the play-calling duties to start the year because he had never worked with Brown before.

“I didn’t know Thomas before this year,” Reich explained. “And so it was going to be a question

of us kind of working together, getting into the season.”

Brown got the chance to call plays during the preseason, taking over the duties in the second half of each game.

“I thought he did a great job. It came very easy to him,” Reich said at the time. “He’s been doing it. The whole OTAs and training camp when we go two-minute, you know, I’m just having him call everything. He’s doing a great job. He’s a natural.

He really is. Very quick-minded.

“If you know Thomas, you know he’s very decisive and he does call his plays with conviction. I think this is a great expe-

rience for him.”

The team scored 23 points under Brown in the three preseason games, 13 with Reich calling the shots.

Young seemed excited to find out that, a half-dozen games into his NFL career, he’d be getting a new play-caller.

“We were always working toward that,” Young said. “He made that known far before the season started. We didn’t necessarily have a timeline, but we always knew that this was coming. I’m super excited. I’m excited for the future.”

At the moment, not many people share Young’s sentiment.

AP PHOTO

Rod Pampling, pictured in June, won the PGA Tour Champions’ SAS Championship at Prestonwood Country Club on Sunday.

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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a day at the State Fair It truly takes an entire day to walk around the annual North Carolina State Fair. From award-winning livestock to the rides and games at Midway and over 100 different food vendors, the event offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. On Monday, Oct. 16, North State Journal staff photographer PJ Ward-Brown sampled some of the action.

PHOTOS BY PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

NASA spacecraft launched to mysterious and rare metal asteroid in first mission of its kind The Associated Press CAPE CANAVERAL, F.L. — NASA’s Psyche spacecraft rocketed away Friday on a six-year journey to a rare metal-covered asteroid.

Most asteroids tend to be rocky or icy, and this is the first exploration of a metal world. Scientists believe it may be the battered remains of an early planet’s core, and could shed light on the inaccessible centers of Earth and other rocky planets.

SpaceX launched the spacecraft into an overcast midmorning sky from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Named for the asteroid it’s chasing, Psyche should reach the huge, potato-shaped object in 2029.

“It’s so thrilling,” said Laurie Leshin, director of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Added Arizona State University’s Jim Bell, part of the Psyche team: “What a great ride so far.”

An hour later, the spacecraft separated successfully from the rocket’s upper stage and floated away, drawing applause from ground controllers.

After decades of visiting faraway worlds of rock, ice and gas, NASA is psyched to pursue one coated in metal. Of the nine or so metal-rich asteroids discovered so far, Psyche is the biggest, orbiting the sun in the outer portion of the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter alongside millions of other space rocks. It was discovered in 1852 and named after Greek mythology’s captivating goddess of the soul.

“It’s long been humans’ dream to go to the metal core of our Earth. I mean, ask Jules Verne,” lead scientist Lindy Elkins-Tanton of Arizona State University said ahead of the launch.

“The pressure is too high. The

AP PHOTO

A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket lifts off from pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., Friday, Oct. 13, 2023. The spacecraft will travel to the metallic asteroid Psyche, where it will enter orbit in 2029 and be the first spacecraft to explore a metal-rich asteroid. temperature is too high. The technology is impossible,” she said. “But there’s one way in our solar system that we can look at a metal core and that is by going to this asteroid.”

Astronomers know from radar and other observations that the asteroid is big — about 144 miles (232 kilometers) across at its widest and 173 miles (280 kilometers) long. They believe it’s brimming with iron, nickel and other metals, and quite possibly

silicates, with a dull, predominantly gray surface likely covered with fine metal grains from cosmic impacts.

Otherwise, it’s a speck of light in the night sky, full of mystery until the spacecraft reaches it after traveling more than 2 billion miles (3.6 billion kilometers).

Scientists envision spiky metal craters, huge metal cliffs and metal-encrusted eroded lava flows greenish-yellow from sulfur — “almost certain to be

completely wrong,” according to Elkins-Tanton. It’s also possible that trace amounts of gold, silver, platinum or iridium — iron-loving elements — could be dissolved in the asteroid’s iron and nickel, she said.

“There’s a very good chance that it’s going to be outside of our imaginings, and that is my fondest hope,” she said.

Believed to be a planetary building block from the solar system’s formation 4.5 billion years

Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ dances to No. 1 at the box office, eyeing ‘Joker’ film record The Associated Press MOVIE THEATERS turned into concert venues this weekend as “Swifties” brought their dance moves and friendship bracelets to multiplexes across the country. The unparalleled enthusiasm helped propel “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” to a massive, first place debut between $95 million and $97 million in North America, AMC Theatres said Sunday.

It’s easily the biggest opening for a concert film of all time, and, not accounting for inflation, has made more than the $73 million “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” earned in 2011. In today’s dollars, that would be around $102 million. And if it comes in on the higher end of projections when totals are released Monday, it could be the biggest October opening ever. The one to beat is “Joker,” which launched to $96.2 million in 2019.

A unique experiment in distribution, premium pricing, star power and loose movie theater etiquette—more dancing and shouting than a Star Wars premiere—have made it an undeniable hit. Compiled from Swift’s summer shows at Southern California’s SoFi Stadium, the film opened in 3,855 North American locations starting with “surprise” Thursday evening previews.

Those showtimes helped boost its opening day sum to $39 million – the second biggest ever for October, behind “Joker’s” $39.3 million.

Internationally, it’s estimated to have earned somewhere between $31 to $33 million, bringing its global total in the range of $126 million to $130 million.

“This is a phenomenal number,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore. “To have a blockbuster style opening weekend for a concert film is unprecedented.”

Swift, who produced the film, went around the Hollywood studio system to distribute the film, making a deal directly with AMC, the largest exhibition company in the United States. With her 274 million Instagram fol-

AP PHOTO

Taylor Swift arrives at the world premiere of the concert film “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” on Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023, at AMC The Grove 14 in Los Angeles. lowers, Swift hardly needed a traditional marketing campaign to get the word out.

Beyoncé made a similar deal with the exhibitor for “ Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé, “ which will open on Dec. 1. The two superstars posed together at the premiere of “The Eras Tour” earlier this week in Los Angeles.

It was a needed injection of star power with Hollywood actors over 90 days into a strike that has left most red carpets void of glamourous talent and resulted in several high-profile films being pushed to next year.

“The Eras Tour,” directed by Sam Wrench, is not just playing on AMC screens either. The company, based in Leawood, Kansas, worked with sub-distribution partners Variance Films, Trafalgar Releasing, Cinepolis and

Cineplex to show the film in more than 8,500 movie theatres globally in 100 countries.

The spotlight on Swift has been especially intense lately as a result of her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. The two made separate surprise appearances on “Saturday Night Live” this weekend and were also photographed holding hands in New York.

It led to some hyperbolic projections going into the weekend, with some analysts predicting that “The Eras Tour” could make over $125 million. Dergarabedian said it’s common for outsized expectations to be attached to massive brands like Swift.

There’s also no precedent for something like “The Eras Tour” and a celebrity of Swift’s stature.

“The laws of gravity don’t ap-

ply to Taylor Swift,” Dergarabedian said.

The film scored well with both critics and audiences, who gave it an A+ CinemaScore, a metric that typically signals a film will continue to do well after its first weekend.

Elizabeth Frank, the executive vice president of worldwide programming and chief content officer for AMC Theatres, said in a statement that they are grateful to Taylor Swift.

“Her spectacular performance delighted fans, who dressed up and danced through the film,” Frank said. “With tremendous recommendations and fans buying tickets to see this concert film several times, we anticipate ‘Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour’ concert film playing to big audiences for weeks to come.”

ago, the asteroid can help answer such fundamental questions as how did life arise on Earth and what makes our planet habitable, according to Elkins-Tanton.

On Earth, the planet’s iron core is responsible for the magnetic field that shields our atmosphere and enables life.

Led by Arizona State University on NASA’s behalf, the $1.2 billion mission will use a roundabout route to get to the asteroid.

The van-size spacecraft with solar panels big enough to fill a tennis court will swoop past Mars for a gravity boost in 2026. Three years later, it will reach the asteroid and attempt to go into orbit around it, circling as high as 440 miles (700 kilometers) and as close as 47 miles (75 kilometers) until at least 2031.

The spacecraft relies on solar electric propulsion, using xenon gas-fed thrusters and their gentle blue-glowing pulses. An experimental communication system is also along for the ride, using lasers instead of radio waves in an attempt to expand the flow of data from deep space to Earth.

NASA expects the test to yield more than 10 times the amount of data, enough to transmit videos from the moon or Mars one day.

The spacecraft should have soared a year ago, but was held up by delays in flight software testing attributed to poor management and other issues. The revised schedule added extra travel time. So instead of arriving at the asteroid in 2026 as originally planned, the spacecraft won’t get there until 2029.

That’s the same year that another NASA spacecraft — the one that just returned asteroid samples to the Utah desert — will arrive at a different space rock as it buzzes Earth.

The stadium tour, which continues internationally, famously crashed Ticketmaster’s site and re-sale prices became astronomical. Pollstar projects that it will earn some $1.4 billion. The concert film offered fans both better seats and a much more affordable way to see the show for the first or fifth time. Prices are higher than the national average, at $19.89, which references her birth year and 2014 album, and ran closer to $29 a pop for premium large format screens like IMAX. Even so, they are significantly less than seat at one of the stadium shows.

Showtimes are also more limited than a standard Hollywood blockbuster, but AMC is guaranteeing at least four a day on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at all AMC locations in the U.S. Many locations also specified that there are no refunds or exchanges. And fans will have to wait a while for “The Eras Tour” to be available on streaming — part of the AMC deal was a 13-week exclusive theatrical run.

Michael O’Leary, CEO of the National Association of Theater Owners said in a statement the moment was, “Another landmark weekend for cinemas.”

“This year has been marked by unprecedented experiences for movie lovers in theaters across this nation,” O’Leary continued in a statement. “The ‘Eras Tour’ debut proves, yet again, that fans are eager to share other experiences in a communal way, with theater owners working creatively to build memorable moments in their cinemas.”

O’Leary said that a survey of 6,000 people by his organization and The Cinema Foundation found that 72% want to see more concert films on the big screen.

“The Eras Tour” accounted for over 70% of the total weekend box office grosses. “The Exorcist: Believer” placed a very distant second in its second weekend with $11 million, followed by the “Paw Patrol” movie in third with $7 million. Rounding out the top five was “Saw X” with $5.7 million and “The Creator” with $4.3 million.

“This is great news for theaters,” Dergarabedian said. “’The Eras Tour’ wasn’t even on our radar in mid-August. You take this out of the equation, and it would have been a totally different weekend.”

d d

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

B7

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND

CUMBERLAND

NEW HANOVER

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

ADMINISTRATOR CTA NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23E1486

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23E1663

State of North Carolina Cumberland County

State of North Carolina Cumberland County

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator CTA of the Estate of Roberta McConnell Gore, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 1517 Marlborough Road, Fayetteville North Carolina 28304, on or before December 27th, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Alex H. Culbreth, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 262 Rockhill Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28312, on or before January 18, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 27th day of September, 2023.

This the 18th day of October, 2023.

Lori H. Murphy, Administrator CTA Estate of Roberta McConnell Gore, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 09/27/2023, 10/04/2023, 10/11/2023 and 10/18/2023

Alex Christopher Culbreth Executor of the Estate of Alex H. Culbreth, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 10/18/23, 10/25/23, 11/1/23 and 11/8/23

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 22 – E – 2123

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Roosevelt Creel, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before January 18, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 18th day of October, 2023.

Nancy Creel, Executor of the Estate of Roosevelt Creel NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

FILE NO. 23 E 1338 In the Matter of the Estate of Robert Baird Godley, Deceased.

The undersigned, having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Robert Baird Godley, deceased, this is to notify all creditors of said Estate to file their claims against the same on or before December 27, 2023, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of same.

All persons indebted to said Estate will please make payment of such indebtedness at once. All claims against said Estate are to be filed with, and all debts owed to said Estate are to be paid to, the undersigned: Julie Borden Godley, Executrix of the Estate of Robert Baird Godley, 2832 Leader Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412.

This the 27th day of September, 2023.

JULIE BORDEN GODLEY Executrix of the Estate of Robert Baird Godley, Deceased ATTORNEY FOR THE ESTATE: Lonnie B. Williams, Jr. Attorney | Estate & Business Law 2325 Tattersalls Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 Telephone (910) 619-0248

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER

WAKE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23E 852 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Louise Tanfield, deceased,late of New Hanover, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Mary Louise Tanfield to present them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of December, 2023 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment.

This the 27th day of September, 2023 Alyson Ranalli Wilford 2210 S. Live Oak Parkway Wilmington, NC 28403 Executor of the Estate of Mary Louise Tanfield Sept 27, Oct 4,11,18 2023

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Lillian Annette D. Israel Kathryn Dell D. Tims Co-Executors of the Estate of Samuel J. Davis c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS State of North Carolina New Hanover County Notice to all Creditors.

The undersigned having qualified as the Executor of the estate of DeMette Gordon Bordeaux late of New Hanover County North Carolina does hereby notify all persons,firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 1204 43rd St Wilmington,NC 28403 on or before December 27,2023 or this notice will be pleated in bar of their recovery.All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 25th of September 2023.

DeMette Gordon Bordeaux II Executor of the Estate of : DeMette Gordon Bordeaux Mail to: 1204 43rd St Wilmington,NC 28403

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Sandra Lee Sessoms, late of Wake County (23E004987-910), North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 22nd day of January 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 18th day of October 2023.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS State of North Carolina of New Hanover notice to Creditors. Having qualified Executrix of the Estate of the late James E. Bowman.

The undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before December 27, 2023 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. (For Publications 9/27, 10/4, 10/11 and 10/18) This day September 27, 2023.

Sidion Nixon, 1310 Grace St. Wilmington, NC 28401

This the 18th day of October 2023.

BEFORE THE CLERK

NEW HANOVER

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS:

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Samuel J. Davis, late of Wake County (23E004953-910), North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 22nd day of January 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.

Doris Holland Gilbert Executor of the Estate of Sandra Lee Sessoms c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTIC SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of the deceased Shanita Springer, of New Hanover County NC. This is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having any claims against the Estate of said Shanita Springer. To present them to the Administrator Of The Estate, on or before the 4th Day of January 2024. So the sum will be pleaded in Bar of the recovery. On this day, October 11th 2023, Lillian Springer 1000 Martin Street, Wilmington NC 28401. Administrator of the Estate of Shanita Springer PUBLICATION DATE OCTOBER 4TH, 2023.

(For publication: 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8/2023)

State of North Carolina New Hanover In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Having Qualified as Executrix of The Estate of Wanda Blanton Wells Deceased 10/7/2023 of New Hanover County, this is to notify all persons, firms, corporations ,having claims against the Estate of said Wanda Blanton Wells to present them to the undersigned on or before January 16, 2024 This is October 16th,2023 Terri Sellars Carr 432 Bayshore Drive Wilmington,NC 28411 Executrix of the Estate of Wanda Blanton Wells

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CABARRUS IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY KRISTINE V. WADE DATED JULY 8, 2005 RECORDED IN BOOK 6081 AT PAGE 275 IN THE CABARRUS COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cabarrus County courthouse at 10:00 AM on October 25, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Kristine V. Wade, dated July 8, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $125,200.00, and recorded in Book 6081 at Page 275 of the Cabarrus County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured

Address of property: 4 8 6 6 Bentridge Dr NW, Concord, NC 28027 Tax Parcel ID:

CABARRUS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23SP419

CUMBERLAND AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 619 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Shirley M. Burkett (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Shirley M. Burkett, Heirs of Shirley M. Burkett: Lori Burkett, Wanda Wilson, Nancy Canady, William S. Burkett; Heirs of Nancy Canady: Dwayne Canady, Ray Holmes, Jr., Jillian Holmes) to Jennifer Grant, Trustee(s), dated July 3, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 09238, at Page 0812 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 23 SP 450 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Aaron Dean McLean and Audreanna N. McLean, in the original amount of $280,000.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc., dated June 3, 2022 and recorded on June 3, 2022 in Book 11489, Page 0268, Cumberland County Registry.

Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 22 SP 1212 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by ANGELA GAFFNEY payable to CERTAINTY HOME LOANS, LLC, lender, to ALLAN B. POLUNSKY, Trustee, dated December 11, 2020, and recorded in Book 10961, Page 561 of the Cumberland County Public Registry by Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Cumberland County, North Carolina, in Book 11453, Page 704, 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 Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 11:00 am, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash

County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 30, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 4, Block “F”, in a subdivision known as LaFayette Village, Section IV, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Plat Book 16, Page 5. Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 805 Hemlock Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

55092681920000 Present Record Owners: V. Wade

Kristine

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Kristine V. Wade.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid

taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in

favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is 4th day of October, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 13143-30605

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.

McLean and Audreanna N. McLean.

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 Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe 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.

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 2704 Aloine Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28306. Tax ID: 9496-10-1398 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the

Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of 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. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property are Aaron Dean

the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 948820-8101 ADDRESS: 6721 PACIFIC AVE., FAYETTEVLLE, NC 28314 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): ANGELA GAFFNEY BEING ALL OF LOT 934, MIDDLE CREEK, SECTION TEN, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF SAME DULY RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 78, PAGE 54, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY, 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.

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

sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 1:30PM on November 1, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: PIN: 9496-10-1398 Property Address: 2704 Aloine Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28306 Being all of Lot 69, in a subdivision known as Parkers Ridge Estates, Section One, Part B as shown on plat of same duly recorded in Plat Book 117, Page 67, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §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 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 no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee

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: 2698 - 6292

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee David W. Neill, Bar #23396 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) dneill@mtglaw.com

THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANK-RUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 110 Frederick St, Suite 200 Greenville, South Carolina 29607 Phone: (470) 321-7112, Ext. 204 Fax: 1-919-800-3528 RAS File Number: [22-023453]

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

B8 TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 676 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Brandon Dowling (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Brandon Dowling) to Investors Title Insurance Company., Trustee(s), dated September 15, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 11573, at Page 0713 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 813 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Benjamin Sylvia (Deceased) and Annie Bell Sylvia (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Benjamin Sylvia and Annie Bell Sylvia, Heirs of Benjamin Sylvia: Ronnie Sylvia) to WFG National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated June 25, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 10338, at Page 0784 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 699 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Joseph Allen Smaw, Jr. (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Joseph Allen Smaw, Jr.) to National Title Network, Trustee(s), dated February 16, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 09118, at Page 0383 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on September 8, 2017, Document No. 28536, in Book No. 10164, at Page 0422 A Loan Modification recorded on September 28, 2022, in Book No. 11582, at Page 555 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 21SP10 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DEBRA E. MOORE DATED APRIL 11, 2012 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8875 AT PAGE 309 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured

23 SP 490 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Patricia Key Landreth to BB&T Collateral Service Corporation, Trustee(s), which was dated February 2, 2012 and recorded on February 24, 2012 in Book 8838 at Page 862, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county

23 SP 182 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Frederick Brewington to Accurate Group, Trustee(s), which was dated April 9, 2013 and recorded on April 15, 2013 in Book 9162 at Page 791, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 23 CVD 4897 NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY JERRY MEYER MILLER TRUST, Plaintiff, v.

KEITH L. CLARK, VERONIKA CLARK, UNITED

having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 23, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Parcel Number 9499-92-3061 Being all of Lot 4 In Subdivision known as “Summer Hill, Section Five, Part One” according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 36, Page 9, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 722 Dandridge Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of 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.

Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 30, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot No. 14, in a subdivision known as Shenandoah, Section X according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 42, Page 12, Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1701 Carter Baron Place, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Situate in the County of Cumberland State of 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.

be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 30, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot Number 50 in a subdivision known as Arran Hills Section 14, Part 3 and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 52, at Page 3, Cumberland, County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6423 Dunham Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Parcel ID: 0406-16-4098Commonly known as 6423 Dunham Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28304 However, by showing this address no additional coverage is provided 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.

debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 25, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Debra E. Moore, dated April 11, 2012 to secure the original principal amount of $116,860.00, and recorded in Book 8875 at Page 309 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 1 5 1 1 Diplomat Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304 Tax Parcel ID: 9496-535301

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

with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed

on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is August 30, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

courthouse for conducting the sale on October 25, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: A tract or parcel of land in the County of CUMBERLAND and State of North Carolina, in CROSS CREEK Township, namely:

This being the same property conveyed to DON H. LANDRETH AND PATRICIA A. LANDRETH, dated 03/23/1971 and recorded in Book 2252, Page 363, in the CUMBERLAND County Recorders Office.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 3307 Granville Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing.

THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of 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.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned,

the current owner(s) of the property is/are Charles M. Brittain III, Guardian of the Estate of Patricia A. Landreth, an incompetent.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to 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 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 no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. 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.

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 their sole discretion, if they believe 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.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 23-07217-FC01

the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on November 1, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot Number 34 in a subdivision known as ROSLIN FARMS, SECTION 1, PART 2 and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 118, at page 13, Cumberland County, North Carolina.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 6517 Valley Falls Rd, Hope Mills, NC 28348.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the

remaining amounts are immediately due and owing.

THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of 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.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Frederick Brewington.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to 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 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 no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. 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.

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 their sole discretion, if they believe 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.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 22-21929-FC01

STATES OF AMERICA, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY- INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC., Substitute Trustee,

action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Plaintiff in the above entitled action has filed a Complaint for Renewal of Judgment pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 1-47 and other applicable law, to bring an action to obtain a new Judgment, renewing the Prior Judgment for an additional term of ten (10) years. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than November 20, 2023 (40 days from the date of first publication) and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This the 9th day of October, 2023.

HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP By: J. Scott Flowers N.C. State Bar No.: 31525 Post Office Box 2505 Fayetteville, NC 28302 Telephone: (910) 864-6888 Facsimile: (910) 867-8732 Attorneys for Plaintiff Dates of Publication: 10/11/23, 10/18/23, and 10/25/23 THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND

ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

BEING all of Lot No. 12, Block C, as shown on a plat entitled Huntington Park, as recorded in Book of Plats 30, Page 2, Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry, and being a portion of the property described in Deed recorded in Book 2117, Page 431, Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry.

Defendants.

TO: Keith L. Clark and Veronika Clark 2951 Cosmo Drive, Apt. B Fayetteville, North Carolina 28304 Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled

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: 15162 - 67906

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: 15793 - 72051

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: 1727 - 68374

20-111015

NOTICE O

IN THE GENER SUPERIOR CO

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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TAKE NOTICE

FORSYTH NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 497 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Douglas L. Beauchamp and Rachel M. Beauchamp (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Douglas L. Beauchamp and Rachel M. Beauchamp) to Joan H. Anderson, Trustee(s), dated August 17, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 2777, at Page 994 in Forsyth 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 Forsyth 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 Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on November 1, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

IREDELL AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 419 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Samuel Dolan and Casey Dolan (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Samuel Dolan and Casey Dolan) to Substitute Trustee Services, Inc., Trustee(s), dated June 4, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 2819, at Page 1694 in Iredell 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 Iredell County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 297 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Adrian Redman (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Adrian Redman, Heirs of Adrian Redman: Arron Bryson Redman a/k/a Aaron Bryson Redman) to Vylla Title, LLC, Trustee(s), dated December 19, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 2667, at Page 1763 in Iredell 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 Iredell 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 Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated

NEW HANOVER NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 395 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by John B. Ashcraft (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Glenn Nester and Janet Nester) to Frances Jones, Trustee(s), dated September 17, 2010, and recorded in Book No. 5511, at Page 1096 in New Hanover 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 New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION NEW HANOVER COUNTY 23sp82 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MELISSA A. BELL AKA MELISSA ANNE BELL AND REGINALD R. AUTRY DATED SEPTEMBER 9, 2010 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5510 AT PAGE 765 IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION NEW HANOVER COUNTY 23sp422 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARY A. LEVITE DATED MAY 24, 2010 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5489 AT PAGE 1292 IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the

22 CVS 5407 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF FORSYTH NEWREZ, LLC d/b/a SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, V. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DENNIS DEAN HALL,

by and through his GUARDIAN AD LITEM, MARIA SATTERFIELD and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC., Substitute Trustee Defendant(s).

TO: TIFFANY LANG and ABIGAIL GORDY a/k/a ABIGAIL FELDER Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows:

Judicial Foreclosure of a Deed of Trust encumbering real property located at 4896 Candlelight Drive Winston Salem, North Carolina 27107.

You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than Thursday October 26, 2023 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This the ____ day of September, 2023.

HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP Jeffrey A. Bunda N.C. Bar No.: 34432 6230 Fairview Road, Suite 315 Charlotte, NC 28210 Telephone: (704) 357-6262 Attorney for Plaintiff

BEGINNING at an iron stake located at the northwestern intersection of NC Highway #66 and Sand Hill Road; running thence with the northern right of way line of Highway #66 North 83 deg. 14’ 51” West 113.00 feet to an iron stake located in the eastern line of George P. Aslanis (see Deed Book 1403, page 1807); running thence with the eastern line of George P. Aslanis North 06 deg. 32’ 07” East 217.85 feet to an iron stake in the southwest corner of Tony M. Dillard (see Deed Book 1185, page 442); running thence with Dillard’s southern line South 83 deg. 36’ 00” East 112.65 feet to an iron stake located in the western right of way of Sand Hill Road; running thence with the western right of way line of Sand Hill Road South 06 deg. 26’ 38” West 218.54 feet to an iron stake in the northern right of way of NC Highway #66, the point and place of Beginning, containing 0.565 acres, more or less, in accordance with a survey prepared by Gupton-Foster Associates, dated June 2, 1988, and last revised May 29, 1995, bearing Job No. 7237-89A. Being further known and designated as Tax Lot 106, Block 5139, as presently shown on the Forsyth County Tax Maps. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 905 Old Hollow Road, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Property address: 905 Old Hollow Road, WinstonSalem, NC 27105

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

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 will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:30 PM on November 2, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Mooresville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Property Description 300 Robinson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117 Parcel ID: 4638-13-0700 BEING all of Lot 1 of Robinson Wood Subdivision, Phase 1, as the same is patted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 25, Page 205 (which is a revision of Map Book 25 at Page 156) Iredell County Public Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 300 Robinson Road, Mooresville, 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. §4521.23.

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.

for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 26, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Statesville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot, parcel of land or condominium unit situated in the Iredell County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: BEING ALL of Lot No. 5 of REVISION OF SURVEY FOR RIVERGREEN, as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 36, pages 85 & 86 Iredell County Registry. Including the Unit located thereon; said Unit being located at 119 Sweetwater Drive, Statesville, 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. §4521.23.

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.

of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 31, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Castle Hayne in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All of Lot “A” as shown on map of a division of Farm 105 of Marathon Colony recorded in Map Book 28, Page 173 in the New Hanover County, North Carolina Registry, reference to said map is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4222 Castle Hayne Road, Castle Hayne, North Carolina.

($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.

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

therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the New Hanover County courthouse at 10:00AM on October 31, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in New Hanover County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Melissa A. Bell aka Melissa Anne Bell and Reginald R. Autry, dated September 9, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $127,500.00, and recorded in Book 5510 at Page 765 of the New Hanover County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 4 7 0 1 Triplett Way, Wilmington, NC 28409

Tax Parcel ID: R07107010-010-000 Present Record Owners: Reggie Autry, Camden Autry and Torren Autry The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Reggie Autry, Camden Autry and Torren Autry.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all

prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for

Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 11, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the New Hanover County courthouse at 10:00AM on October 24, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in New Hanover County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Mary A. Levite, dated May 24, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $114,300.00, and recorded in Book 5489 at Page 1292 of the New Hanover County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3 3 1 5 Needle Rush Ct, Castle Hayne, NC 28429 Tax Parcel ID: R02617001-002-000

Present Record Owners: T h e Estate of Mary A. Levite The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Mary A. Levite.

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

with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed

on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 5, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

Parcel ID Number: R01700-004-033-001 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

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: 14848 - 66094

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: 9736 - 39089

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: 15169 - 67941

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: 8728 - 74520

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

B10 TAKE NOTICE

NEW HANOVER NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 412 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Roger Sterling Wells, III and Anna Mae Wells (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Roger Sterling Wells, III and Anna Mae Wells) to The Law Office of Jonathan Richardson, PLLC, Trustee(s), dated March 4, 2022, and recorded in Book No. RB 6544, at Page 1382 in New Hanover 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 New Hanover County, North Carolina and the

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 317 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by David L. Brannock (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David L. Brannock, Heirs of David L. Brannock: Barbara Burton, Kenneth W. Brannock, William Brannock, Jr., Cynthia Brannock; Heirs of William Brannock, Jr.: Joyce Cressman Brannock; Heirs of Cynthia Brannock: Serena Pulliam) to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), dated November 4, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 5781, at Page 301 in New Hanover 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 New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 256 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Lisa P. Bullock and Cornelius E. Bullock, Jr. (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Cornelius E. Bullock, Jr. and Lisa P. Bullock) to First American Title Insurance Co, Trustee(s), dated May 23, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 5186, at Page 814 in New Hanover 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 New Hanover 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 Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 24, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kure Beach in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and

ONSLOW AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 321 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Michael McCarty (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Michael McCarty, Heirs of Michael McCarty: Lula Frances McCarty, Denise L. McCarty Poole, Emmanuel I. Smith, Michael M. Smith, Christina L. Smith, Michael E. Battiest) to Westcor Land Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated January 12, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 5667, at Page 226 in Onslow 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 Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 190 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Drake William David Sturtz and Gianna Selene Sturtz (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Drake William David Sturtz and Gianna Selene Sturtz) to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), dated March 14, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 4912, at Page 184 in Onslow 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 Onslow 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 Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 417 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Ryan Little (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Ryan Little) to Hilton T. Hutchens, Jr. Esq., Trustee(s), dated March 23, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 5713, at Page 176 in Onslow 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 Onslow 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 Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure

RANDOLPH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 249 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Raymond Rudolph Isom, Jr. and Margaret Susan Thomas Isom (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Margaret Susan Thomas Isom, Heirs of Margaret Susan Thomas Isom: Matthew Aaron Craven, Jeremy Michael Craven) to Douglas Douglas and Connie Lampieri, Trustee(s), dated July 18, 2003, and recorded in Book No. 1826, at Page 0371 in Randolph 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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 22sp399 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DAVID B. HAITHCOCK DATED MARCH 11, 2013 AND RECORDED IN BOOK RE2328 AT PAGE 1759 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of

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 Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 24, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Carolina Beach in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot #2, block #57 of the plan of Carolina Beach according to Map prepared by J.L. Becton, C.E., and duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of New Hanover County, in Map Book #2, at Page #106. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 802 South Third Street, Carolina Beach, 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. §4521.23.

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.

undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 24, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lots 99 and 100 of the Subdivision of Arcadia, according to a map thereof duly recorded in Map Book 2, at Page 88, New Hanover County Registry, reference to which is hereby mad for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 225 North 26th Street, Wilmington, 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. §4521.23.

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.

being more particularly described as follows: That real estate located in the County of NEW HANOVER, State of NORTH CAROLINA, more particularly described as follows:

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.

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: 15915 - 72745

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: 15498 - 69928

A UNIT OWNERSHIP in real property pursuant to Chapter 47-C of the General Statutes of North Carolina and being known and designated as Unit 107B in Dow Avenue, A Condominium, a condominium development as the same is shown and described on map thereof recorded in Condominium Plat Book 17 at Pages 28 and 29 in the Office the Register of Deeds of New Hanover County, North Carolina, and in the Amended Declaration of condominium recorded in Book 5178 at Page 2874 and following pages in said Registry, and all amendments and supplements thereto; sand said unit is also conveyed SUBJECT TO AND TOGETHER WITH all of the rights easements, covenants, terms and conditions of said Declaration and all amendments and supplements thereto, and being the land s described, or intended to be described, in the deed recorded in Book 5135 at Page 2309 in said Registry. Including the Unit located thereon; said Unit being located at 107 Dow Avenue, Unit B , Kure Beach, North Carolina.

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

said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 2, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that property situate in the County of Onslow, State of North Carolina described as: Being all of Lot 37 as same is shown and delineated on a map of Northside at the Commons, Section V-A, said map being recorded in Map Book 39, Page 92, Slide K-588 in the office of the Register of Deeds of Onslow County, reference to said map being hereby made for a more perfect description of said property. Together with improvements located thereon; said property located at 116 Grantham Lane, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Being the same property conveyed to Michael McCarty by Bugler Group, LLC, a Wyoming Limited Liability Company, in Deed dated 4/1/2020, recorded 4/16/2020, in Book 5146 Page 953, in the County of Onslow and State of North Carolina.

More commonly known as 116 Grantham Lane,

Jacksonville, North Carolina 28546.

Parcel/Tax Id: 060154 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.

the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 25, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 5, WYNDHAM HILLS, SECTION I as shown on that plat recorded in Book 39, Page 52, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements thereon; said property being located at 2414 Hines Farm Road, Jacksonville, 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.

sales, at 10:00 AM on October 26, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hubert in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot No. 11, Whispering Pines Subdivision, Section Two as shown on that Plat by Pate Phillips, R.L.S. and recorded in Map Book 25, Page 196, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 116 Pine Needle Drive, Hubert, 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.

Randolph 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 Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 24, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Archdale in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of lot 22 of Penman Heights subdivision, as per plat thereof recorded in plat book 25, page 1, Randolph County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3429 Hilltop Drive, Archdale, North Carolina.

($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.

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

the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 26, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed David B. Haithcock, dated March 11, 2013 to secure the original principal amount of $78,900.00, and recorded in Book RE2328 at Page 1759 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2581 Carl Allred Rd, Franklinville, NC 27248 Tax Parcel ID: 7783373217

Present Record Owners: The Estate of David B. Haithcock The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of David B. Haithcock.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit

of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted.

This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007,

be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is September 11, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.

LOGS.com Posted: By:

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.

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: 7523 - 28669

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: 13304 - 58357

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: 11501 - 49305

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: 15912 - 72742

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: 15931 - 72855

22-114685

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

B11

TAKE NOTICE

RANDOLPH 23-116679 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 23sp256 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY NANCY SNYDER DATED APRIL 8, 2011 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2227 AT PAGE 1101 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured

ROBESON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ROBESON COUNTY 23sp90 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DEWEY W. CAMPBELL, JR. AND SHELIA R. CAMPBELL DATED NOVEMBER 6, 1996 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 926 AT PAGE 658 IN THE ROBESON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust

WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP002639-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Sara Burns and James Burns (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Burns Asset Management, Inc.) to Judy H. Woody, Trustee(s), dated November 3, 2005, and recorded in Book No. 011670, at Page 01943 in Wake 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 Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP001494-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Cheryl Wilder Partin FKA Cheryl K. Wilder and Charles Terrel Partin (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Cheryl Wilder Partin and Charles Terrel Partin) to Michael Lyon, Trustee(s), dated December 15, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 016642, at Page 00335 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on July 16, 2019, in Book No. 017506, at Page 01031, 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 Wake 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 Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on October 30, 2023 and will

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP002734-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Skyline Real Estate Group Of NC, Inc., a North Carolina Corporation (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Skyline Real Estate Group Of NC, Inc., a North Carolina Corporation) to Mitchell & Associates Law Firm, PLLC, Trustee(s), dated August 30, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 017230, at Page 01975 in Wake 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 Wake 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 Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 23SP002621-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY EDWARD V. WILLIAMS AND JAN L. WILLIAMS DATED OCTOBER 12, 2009 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 13727 AT PAGE 1237 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP002761-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Anthony L. Bowen and Ruth Bowen (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Anthony L. Bowen and Ruth Bowen) to Verdugo Trustee Service Corporation, Trustee(s), dated April 23, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 015281, at Page 02431 in Wake 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 Wake 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 Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on October 23, 2023 and will sell

debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 10:00AM on October 24, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Nancy Snyder, dated April 8, 2011 to secure the original principal amount of $111,605.00, and recorded in Book 2227 at Page 1101 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3871 Old Liberty Rd, Franklinville, NC 27248 Tax Parcel ID: 7784-25-3234 Present Record Owners:

The Estate of Nancy Snyder The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Nancy Snyder.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and

must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted.

This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 5, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.

LOGS.com Posted: By:

and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Robeson County courthouse at 11:00AM on November 1, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Robeson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Dewey W. Campbell, Jr. and Shelia R. Campbell, dated November 6, 1996 to secure the original principal amount of $54,900.00, and recorded in Book 926 at Page 658 of the Robeson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 409 W

Main St, Rowland, NC 28383 Tax Parcel ID: 370302071 & 370302075 Present Record Owners: Dewey W. Campbell, Jr. The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Dewey W. Campbell, Jr. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject

to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted.

This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order

for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is September 18, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.

LOGS.com Posted: By:

the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on November 1, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot Number 7, Fairview Hills as recorded in Book of Maps 1981, Page 566, Wake County Registry. Including the Units located thereon; said Units being located at 829 A and B Barringer Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina.

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.

improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8604 Greenway Street, Raleigh, North Carolina.

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.

property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination.

Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay

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

of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 26, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Edward V. Williams and Jan L. Williams, dated October 12, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $128,200.00, and recorded in Book 13727 at Page 1237 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 7 1 0 1 Shellburne Dr, Raleigh, NC 27612 Tax Parcel ID: 0136305

Present Record Owners: Edward V. Williams and Jan L. Williams The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Edward V. Williams and Jan L. Williams.

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

with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in

favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is September 14, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fuquay Varina in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the county of WAKE, State of NC and is described as follows:

§45-21.23.

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.

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)

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tax Id Number(s): 0076786 Land Situated in the City of Raleigh in the County of Wake in the State of NC Situate on the northeastern side of Greenway Street and About 292 feet in a southeasterly direction from the Raleigh Falls of Neuse Road and beginning at an iron stake, southernmost corner of Lot 13 on plat or map entitled “Greenway Acres Addition, Property of Lewis P. Walton,” according to a survey and plat thereof made

by John W. Birdsall, O.L.S. July 8, 1965, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Wake County, North Carolina, in Book of Maps 1965, Page 160, and running thence along the line of Lot 13 N. 46 deg. 27 min. E. 157.47 feet to an iron stake; thence along other lands of Greenway Acres S. 55 deg. 39 min. E. 188.66 feet to an iron stake; thence along the line of the land of W. M. Dean S. 57 deg. 56 min. W. 1891.55 feet to an iron stake the margin of Greenway Street; thence along and with the northeastern margin of Greenway Street N. 50 deg. 49 min. W. 149.55 feet to the point of beginning, and being Lot 14 on the plat hereinabove referred to. Together with

sales, at 1:30 PM on October 23, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a stake in the eastern edge of the Old Stage Road 200 feet south of the intersection of the eastern edge of the Old Stage Road with the southern edge of Sunny Lane; and runs thence North 1 30 minutes east along the eastern edge of the Old Stage Road 50 feet to a stake, the southwestern corner of Lot No. 10; thence south 88 30 minutes east along the southern boundary line of Lot No. 10 a distance of 150 feet to a stake, the southeastern corner of Lot No. 10; thence north 88 30 minutes west 150 feet to the point of beginning, and being all of Lot Z of part one of Echo Heights according to map and subdivision of same prepared by J/L/Castleberry, Jr., Engineer, on April 8, 1957. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5315 Old Stage Road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Commonly known as: 5315 Old Stage Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603

ALL that parcel of land in Wake County, State of North Carolina, as described in Deed Book 12334, Page 1960, ID# 199096, Being known and designated as: Lot 74, Cottonwood Subdivision, Phase 2, filed in Plat Book 1993, Page 671. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 700 Perry Howard Road, Fuquay Varina, North Carolina.

More Commonly known as: 700 Perry Howard Road, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 Tax/Parcel ID: 199096 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S.

The property address and Tax Parcel Identification Number listed are provided solely for informational purposes.

Commonly known as: 8604 Greenway Street, Raleigh, NC 27615-2418 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,

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

23-116679

23-115440

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: 15128 - 67687

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: 13076 - 57275

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: 15062 - 70076

23-116353

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: 8768 - 34281

B12

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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VOLUME 6 ISSUE 49 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | STANLYJOURNAL.COM

SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Stanly students at NC State Fair Students from South Stanly Middle School enjoyed the oversized pumpkins during the 2023 North Carolina State Fair at the NC State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, on October 16, 2023.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Teen brings gun to Albemarle High School A teenager was arrested for bringing a firearm to Albemarle High School last Wednesday, according to the Albemarle Police Department. A school resource officer received a tip about the gun, and, after a brief investigation, arrested the unnamed juvenile for possession of a firearm on school grounds.

No other information was shared.

Stanly County Schools to hold job fair Nov. 7 The Stanly County School District will hold a job fair Tuesday November 7 from 2 to 4 p.m. at East Albemarle Elementary School, 1813 East Main St. in Albemarle. The district has numerous job postings to fill, including teachers, teaching assistants, bus drivers and monitors, custodians, clerical staff, tutors, and more. See the district’s website at stanlycountyschools.org for more on the job fair and openings.

Medicare open enrollment is open through Dec. 7 The annual Medicare open enrollment period is now open, and changes must be made by Dec. 7 to take effect as of Jan. 1. Contact Stanly County Senior Services at 704986-3769 for more information.

Badin Brews taphouse to host third annual fall street festival Downtown Albemarle event will feature over 70 vendors, live music and more

By Jesse Deal North State Journal ALBEMARLE — The Badin Brews taphouse in downtown Albemarle is preparing for its third annual all-day fall street festival, set for Oct. 21 from noon to 8 p.m.

The Downtown Albemarle Street Festival on South First Street is co-presented by the Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation and

Young Country Customs LLC. The festival will host more than 70 vendors, including brewing companies and a variety of dining options.

Celebrating both Oktoberfest and Halloween, the festival will feature local musicians, gem mining, axe throwing, a bounce house, costume contest and more. Admission and parking are free.

Previous fall street festivals have included vendor appearances from Southern Range Brewing Company, Sycamore Brewing, Victory Brewing Company, Cabarrus Brewing Company, Four Saints Brewing Company, Lenny Boy Brewing

The festival will feature local musicians, gem mining, axe throwing, a bounce house, costume contest and more.

Company, Wise Man Brewing, Legal Remedy Brewing and Catawba Brewing Company.

Food options have included Wildfire Pizza, Mana4U, Kasen’s Krab Shack, Mike’s Vegan Cookout, Trixi’s Mexican Street Food, Sweeter Than Honey Concessions, Duck Do-

nuts, Golden Gals Funnel Cakes, Nomad Coffee and The Boba Tea Bar. Badin Brews opened in summer 2021 and has continued to expand its entertainment outreach in the downtown Albemarle area.

Albemarle Councilman Dexter Townsend spoke about the taphouse at the council’s June 5 meeting: “Badin Brews single-handedly as a business has brought more people to the streets of downtown Albemarle for a festival than any festival that the city of Albemarle ever sponsored could generate trafSee FESTIVAL, page 2

North Carolina Medicaid expansion still set for Dec. 1 start as federal regulators give final OK The Associated Press RALEIGH — Federal regulators have given their final approval for North Carolina to begin offering Medicaid to hundreds of thousands of low-income adults on Dec. 1, state health officials announced on Friday.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services told the state in a letter Thursday that changes to North Carolina’s Medicaid program to provide expanded coverage through the 2010 Affordable Care Act had been approved.

An estimated 600,000 adults age 19-64 who earn too much for traditional Medicaid but too little for subsidized private insurance are expected to benefit in

North Carolina. About half of that total should be enrolled immediately, the state Department of Health and Human Services has said.

“Expanding Medicaid is a monumental achievement that will improve the health and lives of hundreds of thousands of people while helping our health care providers and economy,” Gov. Roy Cooper said in a DHHS news release announcing the approval of the State Plan Amendment, which is designed to show the state is equipped to handle the influx of additional federal funds.

The General Assembly passed and Cooper signed in March a Medicaid expansion law, but a state budget also needed to be

approved before expansion could be implemented. A two-year budget law took effect earlier this month.

DHHS had been working so that the enrollment start could be accelerated once the budget law was enacted. Federal regulators received the State Health Plan amendment proposal on Aug. 15, according to Thursday’s letter. Cooper and DHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley announced the Dec. 1 start date nearly three weeks ago.

To qualify for coverage, for example, a single person can make up to $20,120 annually in pretax income, while a household of four can make up to $41,400 for an adult to benefit.

County social services offic-

es will help enroll residents who qualify for Medicaid expansion beyond the first tranche of 300,000 who already have limited Medicaid family planning coverage and will be enrolled automatically. DHHS has created a website with information on expansion for consumers and groups that aims to locate potential recipients.

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

10.18.23

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Stanly County Journal ISSN: 2575-2278 Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Albemarle, N.C. 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 STANLYJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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CRIME LOG

x PRATT, OTIS JUNIOR (B /M/54), COMMUNICATE THREATS, 10/17/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office x POLK, RICHARD SHAQUILLE (B /M/30), DWLR NOT IMPAIRED REV, 10/15/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office x WATKINS, MARCELL JAQUAN (B /M/33), ASSAULT SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, 10/15/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office x BONDS, DWAYNE ANTHONY (W /M/49), FAIL REGISTER SEX OFFENDER(F), 10/13/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office x SANDERS, JEFFERY TRAVIS (W /M/35), FAIL REGISTER SEX OFFENDER(F), 10/13/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office x MEASIMER, RANDY LEE (W /M/32), MISDEMEANOR LARCENY, 10/12/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office POLK, MICHEAL JOSEPH (B /M/26), FELONY PROBATION VIOLATION,

FESTIVAL from page 1

fic for. We’ve put a lot of investment in downtown and we’ve established a social district.”

Interested vendors can still sign up to attend the festival with a silver ($150), gold ($250) or platinum ($500) scholarship package. Applications are available on the Downtown Al-

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A company cancels its plans to recover more Titanic artifacts. Its renowned expert died on the Titan The Associated Press NORFOLK, V.A. — The company that owns the salvage rights to the Titanic shipwreck has cancelled plans to retrieve more artifacts from the site because the leader of the upcoming expedition died in the Titan submersible implosion, according to documents filed in a U.S. District Court on Wednesday.

The decision could impact a looming court battle between the company and the U.S. government, which has been trying to stop the 2024 mission.

U.S. attorneys have said the firm’s original plans to enter the ship’s hull would violate a federal law that treats the wreck as a gravesite.

Paul-Henri Nargeolet was the director of underwater research for RMS Titanic, Inc, the Georgia-based firm that recovers and exhibits Titanic artifacts. Nargeolet was lending his expertise to a separate company, OceanGate, when he and four others died on the Titan’s final dive near the Titanic in June.

Before the tragic dive, RMST planned to take images inside and outside of the wreck. The firm also wanted to retrieve items from the debris field as well as freestanding objects within the sunken ocean liner.

Nargeolet was supposed to be in charge. The former French navy officer had al-

ready completed 37 dives and supervised the recovery of about 5,000 Titanic artifacts.

RMST’s exhibits have displayed items ranging from silverware to a piece of the ship’s hull.

The company’s original 2024 expedition plan also included possibly retrieving objects from the ship’s famed Marconi room. That’s where the Titanic’s radio broadcast increasingly frantic distress signals after the ocean liner hit an iceberg.

The messages in Morse code were picked up by other ships and receiving stations onshore, which helped to save the lives of about 700 people who fled in life boats. There were 2,208 passengers and crew on the Titanic’s sole voyage from Southampton, England, to New York.

The company said Wednesday in its court filing that its plans now only include imaging at the wreck site and surveys to refine “future artifact recovery.”

“Out of respect for P.H. Nargeolet and his family, and the other four people who perished so recently at the site, and their families, the company has decided that artifact recovery would not be appropriate at this time,” the firm wrote.

RMST also said it will not send another crewed submersible to the Titanic until “further investigation takes place regarding the cause of the (OceanGate) tragedy.” The

The court case hinges on federal law and a pact between the U.S. and Great Britain to treat the sunken Titanic as a memorial to the more than 1,500 people who died.

U.S. Coast Guard is leading the probe into the Titan’s implosion.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how the change in plans could impact RMST’s budding legal fight with the U.S. government. The company’s filing appears to suggest that it no longer plans to enter the ship’s hull, which the government said would break the law.

A hearing was still scheduled for Friday afternoon in U.S. District Court in Norfolk, Virginia, which oversees Titanic salvage matters.

“Today’s filing underscores that we take our responsibilities seriously,” RMST CEO Jessica Sanders said in a statement.

“In light of the OceanGate tragedy, the loss of our dear colleague Paul-Henri ‘P.H.’ Nargeolet, and the ongoing investigation, we have opted to amend our previous filing to only conduct unmanned imaging and survey work at this time,” she said.

Lawyers for the U.S. government did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

The court case hinges on federal law and a pact between the U.S. and Great Britain to treat the sunken Titanic as a memorial to the more than 1,500 people who died.

In August, the U.S. argued in court filings that entering the Titanic’s severed hull — or physically altering or disturbing the wreck — is regulated by the law and its agreement with Britain. Among the government’s concerns was the possible disturbance of artifacts and any human remains that may still exist.

The company has not directly responded to the government’s claims in court. But in previous cases, RMST has challenged the constitutionality of U.S. efforts to “infringe” on its salvage rights to a wreck in international waters. The firm has argued that only the court in Norfolk has jurisdiction, and points to centuries of precedent in maritime law.

In a filing with the court earlier this year, RMST said it did not plan to seek the government’s permission regarding its original expedition plans.

But those plans have changed.

The firm said it “will not recover artifacts at this time, nor conduct other activity that would physically alter or disturb the wreck,” the company wrote Wednesday.

Miniature ‘Star Wars’ X-wing gets over $3 million at auction of Hollywood model-maker’s collection

film “Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope” sold for about $3.1 million after a bidding duel between two collectors, the auction house said. Also going for an eye-popping amount was a “Star Wars” Stormtrooper costume that sold for $645,000.

A rare surviving spacesuit from Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film

“2001: A Space Odyssey” sold for $447,000.

Jein was a fan of “ Star Trek “ before he worked on the franchise — and some of the items that he collected were popular at the auction. A filming model of the “SS Botany Bay” vessel from “Star Trek: The Original Series” from the 1960s went for $200,000

while prop devices from that series like a hero phaser went for $187,500 and a tricorder garnered $175,000.

Jein, who grew up in Los Angeles, was still early in his career when he led the team that created the mothership for Steven Spielberg’s 1977 film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The model that appears gigantic in the movie is just over 5 feet (1.5 meters) long and now part of the collection at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. A small preliminary model, which is about 5 inches (12 centimeters) long, brought in $55,000 at the auction.

Lou Zutavern, Jein’s longtime friend and shop supervisor, said that he and Jein always had “a ball” working together. He said Jein was a great friend, and recalled the time he brought a box filled with model kits to entertain Zutavern after he had a knee surgery.

Zutavern said his friend had a love of Hollywood history, and a passion for seeking out items for his collection.

“He loved the search and finding things and making a trade,” Zutavern said. “It was part of the fun for him.”

Oct. 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. A costume contest at 5 p.m. will be open to children 10 and under at Courthouse Square, and a trick-or-treat session will take place at businesses along North Street and West Main Street.

Participating businesses and organizations include the City of Albemarle Fire Department,

Albemarle Police Department, CrossFit Albemarle, Albemarle Music Store, Armadillo Axe Throwing Inc., BoHo Goddess of Albemarle, Divine Real Estate Boutique, Five Points Public House and GloryBeans CoffeeHouse.

Hilltop Seafood Co., Kimbrell’s Furniture, Little Leo’s Boutique, Livi Bug’s Boutique,

Melissa Kathleen’s School of Dance, Music On Main of Albemarle, Satin & Lace, and The Tomahawk Throwing Range & Blade Shop LLC are also scheduled to participate in Downtown Trick or Treat.

All upcoming holiday-related events in downtown Albemarle can be found at albemarledowntown.com.

The Associated Press DALLAS — A miniature X-wing Starfighter used in a “Star Wars” film sold for over $3 million during an auction over the weekend of items both collected and created by longtime Hollywood model-maker Greg Jein.

The collection amassed by Jein, who died last year at the age of 76, brought in about $13.6 million during an event at Heritage Auctions in Dallas. The auction house said that everyone from model-makers to collectors and science-fiction fans attended, making the event its best-attended in years.

Joe Maddalena, Heritage’s executive vice president and a longtime friend of Jein’s, said in a news release Monday that the auction was “a profound testament to my friend as both a visual-effects master and one of the great collectors.”

Jein not only had an Oscar and Emmy-nominated career making miniature models for nearly half a century, but he also spent a lifetime collecting costumes, props, scripts, artwork, photographs and models from the shows he loved.

The Red Leader X-wing Starfighter that was used in the 1977

bemarle Street Festival social media pages. All event sponsorship proceeds will fund police and firefighter presence, permits and licenses, marketing and advertising, as well as music and entertainment.

The street festival isn’t the only fall-themed event coming up in Albemarle. Downtown Trick or Treat is set for

AP PHOTO

A miniature model called “Red Leader,” a X-wing Starfighter from the 1977 film “Star War, Episode IV, A New Hope,” sits on display at Heritage Auctions, Aug. 30, 2023, in Irving, Texas.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

Authoritarian thugs continue their persecution of Jack Phillips

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

I’VE BEEN WRITING ABOUT Denver-area baker Jack Phillips for over a decade now. It’s clear to me he’s going to be badgered into the grave by authoritarians intent on punishing him for thought crimes. From the first time his name appeared in the news until this day, the media have misled the public about him, about the case and about the law.

The latest chapter in Phillips’ Kafkaesque saga involves a transgender lawyer named Autumn Scardina, who demanded Phillips create a pink cake with blue frosting to help celebrate a gender transition. As expected, Phillips, who’d already spent years fighting government coercion, refused to participate.

The Colorado Civil Rights Commission agreed that Scardina had been discriminated against as a transgender person. Then, the dishonorable A. Bruce Jones of the 2nd Judicial District upheld the commission’s flagrant attack on free expression. Now, the Colorado Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case.

The entire case is built on ludicrous contortions of logic and law. The Colorado Court of Appeals, for instance, ruled in favor of Scardina, contending that the colors pink and blue aren’t really speech because, in and of themselves, they aren’t expressive of anything. The message, says the court, is “generated by the observer.”

Yes. Because Phillips isn’t a complete idiot, he understands that context matters. The color white has no inherent meaning, either. If a known Klansman

asks a tailor to fit him for some white sheets, it definitely does.

Then again, if you believe Scardina just happened to approach the most famous Christian baker in the country to create a “transition” cake the same day the Supreme Court announced it would hear the Masterpiece case in 2017, you’re certainly an idiot. The entire Scardina episode, including the configuration of the cake — using colors but no words — was calibrated to set Phillips up.

In the initial complaint to the Civil Rights Commission, Scardina claimed to be “stunned” by Phillip’s rejection. It should be noted, because it isn’t in any media coverage, that Phillips’ lawyers had very good reason to suspect Scardina, whose name appeared on a caller ID, first requested “an image of Satan smoking marijuana.” Later, an email was sent to the shop requesting “a three-tiered white cake” with a “large figure of Satan, licking a (nine-inch) black Dildo ... that can be turned on before we unveil the cake.”

Then again, Scardina admitted it was a setup. As the Associated Press reported last year, according to the activist’s lawyer, “She called Phillips’ Masterpiece Cakeshop to place the order after hearing about the court’s announcement because she wanted to find out if he really meant it ... It was more of calling someone’s bluff.”

There was no bluff to call. Phillips isn’t going to create cakes to celebrate gay weddings or gender transitions or the grand openings of strip clubs or bawdy bachelor parties or for a ‘happy divorce!’ or any other event that undermines his

faith. And even if he was the biggest hypocrite in all of Christendom — which he most certainly isn’t — it wouldn’t change anything. Americans don’t have to justify their free expression to anyone.

Scardina claims the lawsuit was intended to “challenge the veracity” of Phillips’ claim that he would serve LGBTQ customers. This is the central lie of the case. Phillips never once refused to sell a gay couple or a transgender person or anyone else anything in his store. But Phillips isn’t Scardina’s servant, and the government has no right to compel him to endorse or participate in any lifestyle.

Speaking of which, the media keeps contending that Phillips is looking for a religious “carve out” in antidiscrimination law — or something along those lines. No such thing exists.

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment or just instinctively dismiss it, but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

Anything that infringes on those rights is the “carve out,” not the other way around.

If “anti-discrimination” laws dictate that the government can compel Americans to express ideas they disagree with, as Colorado does, then anti-discrimination laws need to be overturned, tout de suite.

At this point, the best-case scenario is for Phillips’ case to reach SCOTUS, so the court can either repair the Masterpiece decision — which basically provided the state and activists with a guidebook on bullying people of faith (basically, don’t show public animosity while doing it) — or shelve the First Amendment.

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter. The chain is unbroken.

And for two millennia, since the destruction of the last Jewish dynasty in the holy land of Israel, those Jew-haters were ascendant.

No longer. That is the promise of the State of Israel.

Never again.

The Jews will not stand by and be murdered. They will not leave their Biblical homeland. They will not surrender. They will be strong and courageous, as Joshua said three thousand years ago.

Israel is indispensable. Its presence is a miracle, its strength a gift.

Thank God for the State of Israel.

There are those who say that antiZionism is not antisemitism. Tell that to the dead women and children in Sderot.

Tell that to Hamas, who proclaim in their charter: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

There are those who say that the Israeli-Arab conflict is a “cycle of violence.” Only the morally blind and obtuse could ever say such a thing.

Look at the videos. Look at the pictures.

That is what evil looks like.

LOOK. Look, because this is what moral equivalence brings. Rape of women.

Kidnapping of children. Murder of

hundreds of innocents, including full families.

For decades, we’ve been told that to look evil in its face was somehow unsophisticated. That to pretend evil away was an act of intellectual virtue.

That to cater to evil, to concede to evil, was the pathway toward a better world.

It was all a damned lie.

LOOK. There are those who proclaim the complexity of it all. Those people are fools. What’s worse, they are enablers of evil, fellow travelers, justifiers of the worst human rights violations on the planet, from targeting civilians to hiding behind them.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. This was the worst week for Jews since the Holocaust.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. Look it in the face. I know that you will. I know you will because I am a Jew, and because I am an American.

Americans love justice. Americans love good. Americans resonate to the book of Psalms, that says, “Hate evil, those who love the Lord.”

Hate evil. And fight it. Americans always have, and they always will.

I know we will.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

I am a Jew

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter.

I AM A JEW. Those have been the words of the Jewish people for three millennia.

Those were the words of the men, women and children of Masada.

Those were the words of the followers of Bar Kochba.

Those were the words of Jews in Granada in 1066 and the Rhineland in 1096 and Khmelnytsky from 16481657 and Kishinev in 1903, in Hebron in 1929.

Those were the words of Jews in Auschwitz and Treblinka.

Those were the words of Daniel Pearl.

Those are my words, too.

They are the words of my parents, my wife, my children.

Over the weekend, my people were attacked. Murdered. Mutilated. Our women raped. Our children kidnapped.

This has happened millions of times before, to millions of Jews. Jew-hatred exists because evil exists. Because there are people who have, for all of human history, hated the Jews and sought to strike at them while they are weak. Who have blamed the Jews for their own problems, who have crafted complex conspiracy theories about the supposed power of the Jews, who have sought to destroy the Jews.

From Pharoah to Haman. From Hitler to Hamas.

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

3

4 SIDELINE REPORT

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

SPORTS

MLB

Cardinals staff shaken after armed robbery at Dominican Republic complex Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Authorities are seeking at least five people in an armed robbery of the St. Louis Cardinals complex in the Dominican Republic on Friday. Dominican Republic police spokesman Diego Pesqueira told The Associated Press that the suspects bound and gagged a security guard and stole watches, rings, necklaces and other items from athletes and personnel.

Pesqueira said the suspects used the guard’s shoelaces to tie his wrists and ankles together. No one was injured, and no shots were fired, he said. A statement from the Cardinals said baseball equipment was also stolen. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak says players and staff at the complex were shaken.

NFL

49ers’ Kittle fined $13K-plus for profane T-shirt Santa Clara, Calif.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was fined more than $13,000 by the NFL for wearing a profane T-shirt about the Dallas Cowboys. Kittle wore a T-shirt under his uniform last week that said “F Dallas,” with the rest of the first word hidden by white tape. He exposed it to the national television audience after a touchdown run in the fourth quarter

by Jordan Mason. The league announced that Kittle was fined $13,659 for the infraction. Kittle said earlier in the week that he expected to be fined but said it would be worth the penalty “100%. I’d do it again.”

AUTO RACING

Paralyzed driver Wickens wins IMSA class title Braselton, Georgia Robert Wickens, paralyzed from the waist down in an IndyCar crash five years ago, won an IMSA class title at Road Atlanta on Friday. Wickens uses a car equipped with hand controls for paralyzed drivers. He and co-driver Harry Gottsacker finished fourth in the Fox Factory 120 to claim the title. The Bryan Herta Autosports entry needed to finish in eighth to clinch the championship. Wickens said he felt like he proved he could return last year and believes this season’s run to the title was more streamlined and professional.

TENNIS

Tel Aviv Open canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war London The Tel Aviv Open tennis tournament scheduled for next month has been canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war. The ATP men’s tour says the decision was made after consultation with security experts and with the safety of players and fans in mind.

The event was scheduled for early November. In last year’s final, Novak Djokovic defeated Marin Cilic in straight sets to take the title.

AP PHOTO

Kyle Larson (5) finishes ahead of Christopher Bell (20) and Zane Smith (38) to win Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at Las Vegas.

Larson earns spot in title race with victory at Las Vegas The 2021 champion clinched a spot in the winner-take-all race at Phoenix on Nov. 5 The Associated Press LAS VEGAS — Kyle Larson used a spectacular midrace save, got a lightning fast final pit stop from his Hendrick Motorsports crew, then held off Christopher Bell at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway finish line to become the first driver locked into the Cup Series’ championship finale.

The 2021 Cup champion earned the first of four spots in the Nov. 5 title-deciding finale with his win in Sunday’s opening race of the round of eight of the playoffs.

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races,” said Larson.

Larson’s fourth win of the season was the most important: Hendrick Motorsports could

theoretically coast through the next two weeks and focus mostly on preparing for the finale at Phoenix Raceway. Joey Logano won Las Vegas last year and parlayed the two weeks of prep time into a championship-clinching win at Phoenix.

There won’t be any rest for the No. 5 team, though.

“If we just say, ‘Hey, we’re going to cruise for the next two weeks,’ then you are not operating with the edge that I think you’re going to need to win it in Phoenix,” said crew chief Cliff Daniels. “There’s two more races to win, and the way I see this now is that we’re in the position, we get to play those races to win.”

Larson led 133 laps and beat Bell by 0.082 seconds.

He needed a pretty remarkable save in the second stage when his Chevy wiggled and Larson somehow escaped with only denting the rear corner of the car into the wall. It was a save that Daniels believes only

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races.”

Kyle Larson Larson could pull off.

“I just tried to take a deep breath and really forget about that as quickly as possible and get refocused,” Larson said.

It kept him in contention and Larson claimed the lead on pit road when his crew had the fastest stop following a caution with 57 laps remaining. Bell had control of the race at that point, but Larson was first off pit road.

Bell, who started on the pole in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, was third after the pit stop.

Passing seemed particularly difficult Sunday at Las Vegas, and Bell was sort of stuck following Larson for the rest of the race.

But he made a run at Larson

UNC’s Maye, NC State’s Wilson headline AP’s ACC midyear honorees Clemson was voted the most disappointing team The Associated Press UNC QUARTERBACK DRAKE MAYE, NC State linebacker Payton Wilson and Louisville coach Jeff Brohm headline the honorees in The Associated Press’ midseason report for the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Maye was picked as the top offensive player through the season’s first half in voting by AP writers covering league teams, while Wilson was picked as top defensive player. Brohm was the choice as top coach after the Cardinals’ fast start, which also made Louisville the pick as the most surprising team so far.

Maye, a third-year passer and top NFL prospect, edged out quarterback Jordan Travis of fourth-ranked Florida State after helping the No. 12 Tar Heels (5-0, 2-0) post their best start since 1997. He entered the season facing massive expectations and got off to a slow start with TD throws as the team leaned more on the running game under new coordinator Chip Lindsey, but

AP PHOTO

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson was voted as the ACC’s top defensive player at the season’s midway point by The Associated Press. he ranks among the Bowl Subdivision leaders in passing yardage (fourth, 325.8), total offense (360.6) and completion percentage (14th, 72.1%) while also running for four scores.

“Drake has thrown for a few more yards this year than he did this time last year, and it’s been against tougher competition,”

UNC coach Mack Brown said.

Wilson has been a relentless presence in the middle of the Wolfpack’s defense. He’s fourth in FBS with 11.7 tackles per game, and he’s had at least nine stops in every game.

“He’s the leader of this football team,” Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren said. “He’s the best player on

over the final handful of laps, closing the gap each time by the flag stand. As they closed in on the checkered flag, Bell gave it one furious push inside of Larson but couldn’t beat him to the line.

“I don’t know what else I could have done,” a dejected Bell said. “I feel like that was my moment. That was my moment to make the final four and didn’t capture it. It would have been nice to lock in.”

Larson praised Bell, his longtime sprint car rival, for racing him cleanly to the finish line.

“I could see him coming in my mirror, for sure,” Larson said of Bell’s closing rate. “Thankfully, Christopher always races extremely clean. Could have got crazier than it did coming to the start/finish line. Thank you to him for racing with respect there.”

Kyle Busch, a Las Vegas native, finished third in a Chevrolet. He was followed by Brad Keselowski in a Ford and Ross Chastain in a Chevrolet. All three were eliminated from the playoffs last Sunday at Charlotte.

The Cup Series goes to Homestead-Miami Speedway next Sunday for the middle race in the round of eight. Larson is the defending race winner.

this football team.”

As for Brohm, he left Purdue to return to the program where he starred as a passer. His Cardinals (6-0, 3-0 ACC) were picked to finish eighth in the league, but they’re off to their best start since 2013 after ending Notre Dame’s 30-game winning streak against ACC teams in the regular season.

“We’ve raised the bar here a little bit with this past win,” Brohm said. “If you want to be good, you’ve got to back it up every week. If you can’t back it up every week, then you’re really not that good.”

Clemson, which was picked ahead of FSU to win the ACC for the eighth time in nine years, was voted the most disappointing team. The Tigers opened the season at No. 9 but was blown out in its season opener at Duke, tumbled 16 spots to No. 25 for one week and then ultimately fell out of the poll before falling to FSU for an 0-2 ACC start.

At Virginia, coach Tony Elliott was named the coach on the hottest seat.

Elliott is 4-12 in Year 2 with the Cavaliers (1-5, 0-2), including 1-8 in ACC play. Two of those four wins have come against Coastal Athletic Association teams from the Championship Subdivision.

Elsewhere, Boston College’s Jeff Hafley started his tenure with a pair of six-win seasons but went 3-9 last year with the Eagles (3-3, 1-2).

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Ja’Zyion Geiger Albemarle, football

Ja’Zyion Geiger is a junior wide receiver and cornerback on the Albemarle football team.

The Bulldogs beat Mount Pleasant, 26-21, last Friday, to post their first conference win of the season.

Geiger, Albemarle’s leading receiver on the season, caught five passes for 37 yards in the game and also added two punt returns for 10 yards. He had seven solo tackles on defense.

However, his big play on the night came when the game was on the line.

Mount Pleasant had driven to the Bulldogs’ 27-yard line and was looking to get a gamewinning touchdown in the waning seconds of the game, when Geiger jumped in front of the pass to intercept it at the 10-yard line. He returned it 24 yards to clinch the victory for Albemarle.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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North Stanly moves to 6-2 with road win over South Stanly Three Stanly County teams were victorious Friday night

By Jesse Deal North State Journal NORTH STANLY’S offense remained formidable in a 4212 victory last Friday at South Stanly.

The Comets (6-2, 2-0 YVC), who came into the game averaging more than 30 points per game, now sit atop the Yadkin Valley Conference standings in both overall and conference wins after winning three games in a row.

Coming off his NCHSAA Performance of the Week showing in North’s 57-20 win a week ago, running back Jay Jackson had another explosive performance with 205 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries.

The 6-foot-2, 225-pound senior now has 1,273 yards and 19 touchdowns this season.

Running backs Aden Allsbrook and Elijah Bryant each added a touchdown run, while quarterback Chance Blake finished with 200 passing yards on 10-of-15 passing with touchdown throws to Jordan Stewart and Conner Lupole.

North next travels to Mount Pleasant on Friday to face the Tigers (5-3, 2-1 YVC) with a chance to post its highest win total since 2019.

The Rowdy Rebel Bulls (44, 1-2 YVC) dropped to .500 overall and hit the road to challenge Lake Norman (5-3,

0-0 South Piedmont) in a nonconference matchup.

West Stanly 24, Parkwood 12 Recovering from last week’s blowout loss to Forest Hills, the Colts bounced back with a 24-12 road win over Parkwood.

West (5-3, 2-1 Rocky River Conference) led 16-6 at halftime and held off the Wolf Pack (1-7, 0-3 RRC) to move above .500 in conference play.

Running back Rene Salazar rushed 33 times for 174 yards and two touchdowns, and quarterback Jett Thomas also added a rushing touchdown.

The Colts will host Anson (4-4, 2-1 RRC), who defeated West 35-14 last season.

Albemarle 26, Mount Pleasant 21 After four consecutive losses to start the season, Albemarle has won three of its past four following a 26-21 home win over Mount Pleasant.

The Bulldogs (3-5, 1-1 YVC) entered the fourth quarter down 14-12 but got touchdowns from Kaine McClendon (team-high 115 yards) and Malik Watkins (87 yards) to push ahead.

An interception from Ja’Zyion Geiger with 1:35 remaining ended the Tigers’ comeback bid and gave Albemarle its third win of the season.

The Bulldogs will now host Union Academy (1-7, 0-2 YVC), losers of five straight.

Germany’s Jamal Musiala, left, and the United States’ Gio Reyna, right, battle for the ball during Saturday’s international friendly in East Hartford, Connecticut.

AP PHOTO

Reyna plays under Berhalter in USMNT’s loss to Germany The American coach and player have been fueding The Associated Press EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Gio Reyna was noticeable with dyed blond hair in his first game back with Gregg Berhalter following the eruption of their family feud at last year’s World Cup. Germany’s offense in its first game under Julian Nagelsmann and a porous U.S. defense also stood out.

Niclas Füllkrug and Jamal Musiala scored three minutes apart early in the second half, and Germany rallied to beat the United States 3-1 in a rainy exhibition Saturday.

Christian Pulisic put the 11thranked U.S. ahead in the 27th minute, and İlkay Gündogan tied the score in the 39th. Füllkrug got the go-ahead goal in the 58th minute, and Musiala padded the margin in the 61st for No. 15 Germany.

“On the three goals, it was a loss of connection in the backline and in the midfield — just overall organization on those three plays let us down a little bit,” Berhalter said. “Games against opponents like this can’t be that open.”

Reyna played the first half in his first start since fracturing his right leg in a CONCACAF Nations League match against Canada in June. The 20-year-old midfielder had been limited since the injury to a 27-minute substi-

“It was good to see and good to have him on the field.”

USMNT ocach Gregg Berhalter on Gio Reyna tute appearance for Dortmund in the Bundesliga on Oct. 7.

“He played a good game, showed his quality,” Berhalter said. “It was good to see and good to have him on the field.”

Berhalter limited Reyna to a pair of substitute appearances at the World Cup and said during a management conference after the tournament that he near-

ly sent a player home from Qatar for lack of effort during training, remarks clearly about Reyna.

Reyna’s parents, former U.S. captain Claudio Reyna and midfielder Danielle Egan, contacted the U.S. Soccer Federation about a three-decades-old domestic violence allegation involving Berhalter and the woman who later became his wife.

Berhalter was replaced by a pair of interim coaches and, after a law firm retained by the United States Soccer Federation determined Berhalter did not improperly withhold information when he was hired in 2018, he was rehired to resume coaching in September.

“Honestly, it’s like it never happened,” midfielder Weston McK-

ennie said of Reyna. “Whenever he came back in, it was just done and dusted.”

Germany had 60% possession and outshot the U.S. 19-6. The Americans had not lost by two goals in a game in which they scored first since the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup final against Mexico.

“These are games we want to start finding ways to win,” Pulisic said.

Germany plays Mexico on Tuesday in Philadelphia, while the U.S. faces Ghana at Nashville, Tennessee.

“It’s normal that not everything today was brilliant,” Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said, “But that’s good because I love to work, so let’s work.”

6

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Sen. Joe Manchin considers independent 2024 run, warns party system could be nation’s ‘downfall’ The Associated Press CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has benefited from waiting to reveal where he stands as the swing vote in a chamber closely divided between Democrats and Republicans.

He’s taken the same approach when it comes to the next phase of his political career: The moderate Democrat has teased possible retirement, a run for reelection to the Senate or even a presidential campaign in 2024 — possibly as an independent candidate.

During a multi-day trip to West Virginia’s capital last week, the 76-year-old expressed growing frustration with the polarized U.S. two-party system.

“I’m having a hard time — I really am,” he said while touring a Charleston metal stamping plant.

“The two-party system, unless it changes, will be the downfall of our country.”

Manchin’s visit included the metal plant, which began being revitalized during his governorship, and an Amtrak station renovated with infrastructure funds he helped secure. He told reporters he was “getting closer” to a 2024 decision, repeating his line that he’ll make an announcement before the end of the year.

But he deflected questions about his identity as a Democrat, which

AP PHOTO

West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin speaks with reporters outside the newly renovated Amtrak train station in Charleston, W.Va. on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. he’s held since first running for West Virginia’s House of Delegates in 1982.

“Don’t worry about the ‘D’ or the ‘R’, worry about the person — who is that person?” said Manchin, who was a Democratic secretary of state and governor of West Virginia. “There can be a good D and a bad D and a good R and a bad R, but the identity — I like more the independent identity.”

Manchin, who joined Congress in 2010 and rose to prominence in West Virginia politics

when both coal and the Democratic Party were king, has wielded his influence like few other politicians in recent years.

He managed to win reelection in 2018 in one of former President Donald Trump’s most loyal states as the last of his party to hold statewide office in now-deep red West Virginia.

However, some observers say he faces very tough odds if he runs for reelection, particularly as the state’s enormously popular Republican Gov. Jim Justice has entered the race.

Some progressive Democrats over the past few years have grown weary of Manchin. His vote is one of two they’ve had to beg, convince and cajole in a 5149 Senate — but his nearly constant chides at many fellow Democrats, particularly President Joe Biden, left them concerned he could switch parties and take away their slim hold on power.

One of his most stunning rebukes of his party came in December 2021 when after months of painstaking negotiations directly with the White House, Manchin pulled his support from a $2 trillion social and environmental bill, dealing a fatal blow to Biden’s leading domestic initiative in his first year in office.

Months later, in a surprise turn of events, Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer crafted a compromise package to ultimately pass and sign into law a modest domestic bill focused on healthcare and climate change.

As Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair, Manchin has used his sway to push a variety of West Virginia initiatives, including support for miners with black lung and the completion of the contested Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline. If he chooses to run for any office, he will be counting on nuts and bolts investments making a difference to voters.

Two Republicans, Justice and

Rep. Alex Mooney, are already vying for Manchin’s Senate seat.

The senator had recruited Justice to run for governor as a Democrat before Justice, in a surprise move, switched to the GOP at a rally for Trump during his first term.

Over the last months, Manchin appeared in New Hampshire at an event for No Labels, a national political movement that could offer an independent presidential ticket in 2024. He’s currently holding around $10.8 million in campaign funds, compared to Mooney’s $1.5 million and Justice’s $800,000.

Still, Justice has a high approval rating in West Virginia, making him a formidable opponent for any candidate.

Robert Rupp, a retired political history professor at West Virginia Wesleyan, called Manchin one of the most successful campaigners in recent state history because of his personal relationships with constituents.

The question, Rupp said, is whether Manchin will “risk his reputation and further political career by running for a race where the odds are overwhelmingly against him.”

“On paper, most of the people would write him off, but I haven’t, based on his past record of success,” Rupp said. “I have some doubts that he would run as an independent, since that’s in many ways a road to nowhere.”

The Supreme Court signals support for a Republicanleaning congressional district in South Carolina The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court last week seemed likely to preserve the Republican hold on a South Carolina congressional district against a claim that it treats Black voters unfairly. The outcome could shape the fight for partisan control of the House of Representatives.

The court’s six conservative justices signaled skepticism with a lower court ruling that ordered South Carolina to redraw a coastal district that is held by Republican Rep. Nancy Mace.

Chief Justice John Roberts said a ruling for Black voters who challenged the district “would be breaking new ground in our voting rights jurisprudence.”

When Mace first won election in 2020, she edged Democratic incumbent Rep. Joe Cunningham by 1%, under 5,400 votes.

In 2022, following redistricting driven by the 2020 census results, Mace won reelection by 14%. She is one of eight Republicans who voted to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker.

With Republicans holding a thin margin in the U.S. House, the loss or gain of one seat could alter the balance of power after the 2024 elections.

The Republican-led legislature’s 2022 redistricting moved 30,000 Black residents of Charleston out of Mace’s district.

The state argued that partisan politics, not race, and a population boom in coastal areas explain

AP PHOTO

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., speaks with reporters at the Capitol in Washington, May 24, 2023. the congressional map.

“The General Assembly had no reason to and did not use a racial target. It used political data to pursue its political goals,” lawyer John Gore told the court on behalf of the state.

But the lower court concluded that the state used race as a proxy for partisan affiliation in violation of the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, one of three liberals who sounded sympathetic to the challengers,

noted that the old and new districts kept the Democratic-leaning Black voting age population at 17%, low enough to keep electing a Republican representative.

“How do you explain the consistency? I mean, my understanding is that thousands of people were moved in and out of this district, and yet that line, the line concerning the amount of, you know, Black voter -- adult voter participation remained the same,” Jackson said.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, on

the other hand, seemed to have little trouble with the state’s explanations for how the map ended up as it did. Kavanaugh asked what the court should do if it finds the state relied on solid political, rather than racial, data to draw the district.

“If that data is good, should we reverse?” he asked.

Kavanaugh and Roberts split with the other conservatives and joined the liberal justices when the Supreme Court in June said Alabama diluted Black voters’ po-

litical power.

Democrats seem likely to gain a seat in Alabama following a court-ordered redistricting that will give Alabama two congressional districts where Black voters comprise a substantial portion of the electorate. A similar pending Louisiana case could lead to a second mostly Black district there, too.

In South Carolina, Black voters wouldn’t be as numerous in a redrawn district. But combined with a substantial set of Democratic-leaning white voters, Democrats could be competitive in the reconfigured district.

Civil rights groups challenged the map in federal court and won a ruling from a unanimous threejudge panel in January.

Leah Aden, arguing in defense of the lower-court ruling, told the justices that “four of the five heaviest Black precincts” were moved out of Mace’s district, while a much lower percentage of majority-white voting precincts were moved.

The lower court put its order on hold to allow the state to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said in January that “we don’t need to draw anything until five members of the Supreme Court say we have to.”

Both sides want a decision by Jan. 1 so that the state can use a congressional map in the 2024 elections that complies with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

obituaries obituaries

Barbara Jean Gary Wayne (Taylor) Drye Gardner

April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023 April 20, 1953 - October 14, 2023 Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, Gary Wayne Gardner, January 14, 2023 at her home. 70, of New London, NC, passed away Barbara was born April 17, 1936 Saturday, October 14, 2023 in North Carolina to the late Robertat Health Stanly.

LeeAtrium Taylor and the late Eva Belle Mr. Gardner was born April Watts Taylor.

20,was 1953 inpreceded Forsythin County, She also death NC to the late Thomas O. by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Gardner and Mary Frances Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee McGee Gardner “Skinny”.

Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor.Gary is survived by his wife, Kim Gardner of the Survivors include children, home.

He Williams is also survived by Debbie (Mike) of many friends, CecilCurry & Jackie Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) DugginsDouglas of Winston Salem, of Oakboro, (Tammy) NC, Mike & Vannecia Garner Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Melissa (Don) Parrish Albemarle, of Welcome, NC.of Bob & Susan Samantha Smith of NC, Sims of(Destiny) Winston Salem, Oakboro, Bradley SmithStringer of Oakboro, Preston & Brenda of Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Winston Salem, NC, Randy Jessie Lylesville; & Stover JaniceofHodges of sisterWelcome, in-law, many of NC,Beatrice BubbaGoodman; & Pam Boswell nieces andLondon, nephews;NC, andBarbara her beloved New cats,Jones Bo and ofGarfield.

Greensboro, NC, Paul Barbara a member of River, & Carolwas Ebert of Little Oakboro Baptist&Church over SC, Vance BonnieforDavis 60 years.

She workedNC, over Terry 30 years of Randleman, & at Stanly Knitting of Mills.

After just Jae Osborne Kernersville, twoNC, yearsKen of retirement, began & Maggieshe and Mark managing the Oakboro Senior Dudley of Walkertown, NC, Center and did for 18Sink yearsof Richard &that Sharon untilWelcome, this past week.

Barbara was NC, Gary & Joyce known for her good cooking and Myers of Thomasville, NC, always taking care of others. She also and Mike & Dee Duffield of loved going on day long shopping Welcome, NC. trips - she could out walk and out shop people half her age. She kept her mind and body active through gardening, word searches, and various other hobbies.

Dwight Farmer Mary Jane Furr

January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, March 25, 1936 - October 14, 2023 2023 Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, Mrs. Mary Jane Hartsell of Norwood died Sunday morning, (Almond) Furr, 87, of Oakes.

January 15, 2023 at Forrest Albemarle, NC, passed Dwight was born Januaryaway 24, on Saturday, October 14,late 2023, 1939 in Stanly County to the at Stanly Walter VirgilManor. and Martha Adkins Known byamany simply as Farmer.

He was 1957 graduate Jane or “Mom,” Mrs. of Mary Norwood High School and was Furr was born March 25, 1936, a United States Army Veteran.

Oakboro, Stanly County, Heinwas a member of Cedar Grove to theMethodist late James Monroe United Church where he and Cornelia Smith Hartsell. had served as church treasurer and Shemember. was predeceased bycareer her choir He began his husband, Walter Bruce Furr, with the Stanly County Sheriff’ s in 1989; and her to first Department moving thehusband, Norwood Sidney A. Almond, in 2019.as Police Department and retiring SheofisPolice also predeceased Chief with the Townby of sisters Ramelle Norwood after manyEfird yearsand of service.

Dwight Yow was an gardener,and Gladys of avid Albemarle, bird watcher Carolina fan.of the Ruby Nealand “Teen” Crisco He is survived by his wife Hilda Oakboro community.

Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Mrs. Furr is lovingly Farmer Jr. (Mary) McLeansville, survived by herofson Rod NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Almond and wife Kelly B. Lowe (David) Norwood;NC; one her Almond ofof Rockwell, sister Geraldine DennisA. of Hughes Troy; two daughter, Rhonda grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” of Albemarle, NC; son Rick Farmer III and Whitley Rose Huiand Almond of Albemarle, NC; Lowe. sister, Mrs. Joyce H. Little of He was preceded in death by Oakboro. his son Alex, brothers, Tommy She is also survived by and a Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia grandson, Hunter Hughes of Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty.

Albemarle; brother-in-law Memorials may be made to Cedar Ben Furr and wife Tempie Grove United Methodist Church, of Cary, NC; stepchildren Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Dean, Donna, David, and Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs Doug (and their respective Road, Norwood, NC 28128. spouses and children); nieces Sandra Edwin, Rita Crisco, Sonya Young and Suzanne Mariscano; and nephews Dennis Efird, Barry Yow, and Mark Crisco.

James Roseboro Sarah Love June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023 Hinson

James 55,2023 of June 2,Arthur 1944 -Roseboro, October 13, Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, January 2023 Love at Anson Health Mrs.10,Sarah Hinson, and 79,Rehab. formerly of Albemarle, Mr. passed Roseboro was on born on NC, away Friday, June 23, 1967 to the late Robert October 13, 2023. and Delena Shipp Roseboro.

Mrs. Hinson was bornHe June graduated from South Stanly 2, 1944, in Stanly County, to High School and was employed by the late Craig and Rosa Love.

Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching She is survived by her husband football and basketball, especially the Tommy Hinson. Mrs. Hinson Carolina TarHeels and Miami. isInlovingly by is her additionremembered to his parents he daughters; Bridgette Clark preceded in death by his brothersof Albemarle, NC and and sisters: Barbara LeeTammy Roseboro, HouseBrown, (Chad)Verna of Albemarle, Dorothy Roseboro, NC. SheIngram, is also survived by Henrietta and Harold brother, Glen Love (Marlee) Roseboro. and sisters, Elizabeth Conklin He is survived by his sisters: and (James) Betty Page.

Mrs.Edwards Hinson is Helen Roseboro survived

by Roseboro grandchildren ofalso Albemarle, Mary House, Taylon House, ofAsheton Washington DC, and Marion Derek Helms and Robert Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: Wallace, Stepchildren Todd Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, Hinson and Scotty Hinson, Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of step-grandchildren; Shelby Norwood, and Van Horne; a special Hinson, Josh Hinson, Tyler friend of over 40 years, Michelle Hinson, Amande Hinson McLendon of the home; special nieces: NybreaAnn Montague, Knya and Carrie Hinson.

Little, and Laquanza Crump; special She is also survived by great nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond grandchildren Chance, Denver, Roseboro, andmany Marcus Lilly; and Caden and step-great God daughter, Daphne grandchildren.

Mrs.Johnson; Hinsonand special friends, Vetrella and is predeceased by a Johnson son Chris Ben McLendon.

Wallace, brother; Kenneth Love, sister; Willene Hinson and two brothers-in-law Wade Hinson and George Conklin.

Darrick Baldwin January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023

Dimpie Neil Hathcock

Kimberly Morton Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50,

January 14, 1967 - October 8, 2023 Dimpie “Neil” Hathcock, 56, of Albemarle, passed away Sunday, October 8, 2023 at Atrium Health Stanly. There will be no funeral service at this time.

Neil was born January 14, 1967 in Stanly County, NC to the late Carl Odell Hathcock and Catherine Rebecca Mauldin Hathcock. He formerly worked at Kimbrels Furniture Store. He loved to fish, going camping and video games.

Mr. Hathcock is survived by his son, Dakota Walker Huneycutt of Albemarle, NC and a sister, Rebecca “Becky” Buiwe (Randy) of Albemarle, NC. Neil was also preceded in death by his brother, Darrell Hathcock and his wife, Bonnie Huneycutt.

Roger Paul Brewer

March 19, 1947 - October 11, 2023 Roger Brewer, 76, of Albemarle passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 in his home.

Born March 19, 1947 in Stanly County, NC, he was the son of the late Paul William Brewer and Nora Faye Hatley Brewer. He was a member of Union Chapel Methodist Church and was a retired textile employee with Carolina Paper Products in Oakboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents and step-mother Lottie Brewer. He is survived by numerous cousins and an Aunt Jean Nash of Albemarle.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

November ~ October entered eternal 28, rest,1977 Sunday, January 13, 2023 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina.

Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was Kimberly Dawn Morton the Eddie James Baldwin 45son of of Albemarle died FridaySr. and the late Phyllis Blue Evening, October 13,Baldwin.

2023 at Darrick enjoyed life, always kept Atrium Cabarrus. things lively andwas enjoyed making Kimberly born others smile. His no November 28,presence 1977 inisStanly longer in our hisElaine memory County to midst, Bobbybut and will forever live inof ourNorwood. hearts.

Scott Morton HeInwas educated theparents Stanly addition toin her County schools and children attended she ispublic survived by her Albemarle Senior High School, Dakota Ray Lambert of Chapel Albemarle.

Hill,NC, Cheyenne Elaine He was a great conversationalist Lambert of Jacksonville, NC and loved meeting people.

Darrick and Colton James Catoe of never met a stranger and always Salisbury, NC. Grandchildren, showed loveLandon, and compassion Dustin, Austin for andhis fellowman. He also loved his dog, Oaklynn Catoe all of Salisbury.

Rocky.

Her sister, Stephanie Morton He is survived by his father, Bibey (Mike) of Norwood, a Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal niece, Alyssa (Alex) McGarity (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) and her Medley, andanimal Morgancompanion Baldwin; Abby. brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton She was preceded in death Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a by of her grandparents, andA host other relatives and Ray friends.

Jennie Ruthfrom Morton and Zeb limb has fallen our family tree. and Scott.

We willPatricia not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

John Kluttz PeggyB.Eudy March 23, 1935 - January 9, Hartsell 2023

November 20, 1939 - October John grew12, up2023 in the Millingport community where he drove a school bus and worked at the local83, gas Peggy Eudy Hartsell, station during High School of Locust, NChis passed away years.

He graduated from Millingport Thursday October 12, 2023 in High in 1954 and enteredbyinto her home surrounded her servicefamily. with the US Airforce loving immediately afterward.

Born November 20,Upon 1939 return from the service,NC he and his in Cabarrus County, high school sweetheart Julie Peggy was the daughter ofwere married in 1956. Cleveland He graduated from the late Grover Nashville Diesel College later in Eudy andAuto Lectie Huneycutt 1959 and began his career Eudy. She was a memberasofa diesel mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Bethel Baptist Church. She Company, moving his growing worked several years as a family to Charlotte where they lived Environmental Services Aid at until their retirement.

Northeast Hospital in Concord When John purchased his first and prior to that worked forhe Model A Ford at the age of 17, Allison’s in took Stanfield. said that he the carPeggy to the had a greenmechanic thumb and loved community when he had gardening. a small problem.The mechanic told Peggy survived bytoher him that ifishe was going keep the husband of 66toyears, J.D. car, he needed learn to work on Hartsell Locust. is also it. This is of when John’sShe passion for survived by her sons, Danny Model A Fords began and how he (Rose) ofhappiest Stanfield and Dennis spent his days with his best (Paula) Hartsell of the Oakboro, friends from around globe for the and Cole, four grandchildren, rest of his life!

Chellie Hartsell, Abbyas Hinson At age 50, after years a Detroit (Daniel), Danielhe Hartsell, Diesel Mechanic and Julieand Dustin six and great decidedHartsell, to take theand plunge grandchildren, Jensen, open a full ModelRyder, A Restoration Kellan, Ellie, and at Dacesyn.

Shop. They thrived their shop in Cornelius, NC until their retirement Other survivors include her in 1998Scenie when they moved to sister, Hunter in back Mount Cabarrus County. once H.D. again Pleasant, NC andJohn brother set up(Nell) shop inofhis back yard garage Eudy Charlotte. where he attracted a loyal group of In addition to her parents, friendsiswho visited almost daily.

Peggy preceded in death While on theEstelle farm inWhitley, Gold Hill, by siblings, John also began a lifelong love with Mattie Belle Smith, Elizabeth Alis Chalmers tractors after he Furr, Gertie Allmon, Curtis restored his Dad’ s tractor and began Eudy, Ernest Eudy, Jessie amassing collection of tractors Eudy, andhis Ann Page. She is as well. also preceded in death by her John restored many great grandson, Talin.cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Award the highest award given to members at the national level.

This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men. John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) ofthe Richfield, Celebrate life of NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) your loved ones. Submit of Asheville, NC and Seth William obituaries and death McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; notices to be published in five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, SCJ at Meredith, Grant, Victoria and obits@stanlyjournal.com Ronan.

John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.

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Doris Jones Betty Ferree Coleman Beach

October 11, 1944 - January 10, June 2, 1930 - October 14, 2023 2023

Betty Ferree Beach,78, DorisLillian Elaine Jones Coleman, 93, passed on sSaturday, went homeaway into God’ presence on October 2023 in her illness and January 14, 10 after a sudden beloved of Badin.

She a valianttown week-long fight in ICU. wasDoris bornwas on June 2, October 1930 in11, born on the Badin Hospital, a daughter 1944, in the mountains of Marion, ofNC the lateher Mabel and while father wasArthur away Ferree. fighting in the US Navy during BettyWar grew up in Badin, a was World II. Raymond Jones town she to loved herafter entire life. and so proud return the war She attended Badin School meet his little girl!

Doris grew up in where sheNC and graduated from Durham, played High on the basketball Durham School.

She furthered team in theatold Badin Theatre. her studies Watts Hospital After nursing school, Betty and School of Nursing in Durham did her post work in in graduated asgraduate a Registered Nurse 1966.

Washington, DC, where she married Rev. Corps Dr. Ted metDoris a young Marine Coleman in 1966David and had two officer, Andrew Beach. daughters Amyand andspent Laura.the Doris They married raised Amy and Laura in North next twenty years assigned SC. toAugusta, military bases in Hawaii, was an incredible neonatal SanDoris Diego, Jacksonville, intensive careand nurse for most of her Alexandria, Virginia career, and this was her passion.

Beach. During those twenty The Augusta Chronicle didone a feature years three children and on her in 1985. was aDavid, clinical dog joined the She family: nurse manager Augusta, Georgia Tonya, Andrea,inand a sweetly at University Hospital NICU stubborn Hungarian Vizsla,and worked there for 20 years.

During Tad. Upon military retirement, thisfamily time, Doris mentored young the returned to Badin, andchildhood assisted inhome savingon the tonurses Betty’s lives of so many babies. She also Cedar Street, and she never worked for Pediatrician Dr. William left.

A. Wilkes in Augusta for several Betty doted on her two years prior to her NICU career. Doris cats, KP and Coco, who were retired from the mother/baby area at wonderful companions.

She Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 loved watching the birds in years of nursing. her Doris backyard, the was a especially gentle and sweet hummingbirds.

She loved spirit and loved her Lord. Shetonever cook no gathering was left met aand stranger, and she always complete you feelingwithout upliftedher afteramazing talking pound cake she that with her.

She(even wouldthough often claim always it hadfriends a sad streak), she hadsaid “adopted” into her her fudge, and herand persimmon immediate family, honestly, she pudding.

Her vegetable between soup never made a distinction and beefPositivity stew were alwaysfrom in her the two. radiated demand. like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, Known Meme to her smart, andas sentimental.

During her eight grandchildren, shemember loved lifetime she was an active spending time Church with each of of First Baptist of Durham, them, attending their ball First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Catholic Church games andTrinity birthday parties, in Augusta, and Palestine United and trying to keep up with Methodist Church in Albemarle. their antics.

And there were She especially loved plenty of antics.

Allhelping those at church with older adults, grandchildren kept her youth, young!and children.

Betty is survived by her Shechildren: was especially talented three David and his at sewing from a young ageher and wife, Sharon; Tonya and made giftsKen; for friends, Christmas husband, and Andrea ornaments, Halloween Costumes, and her husband, Myron.

She doll clothes, dresses, prom leaves eight pageant grandchildren: dresses,and coats, bags, scarves, Jeffrey histote wife, Rachel; outfits for Amy and Laura, and Bradley and his wife, Kelly; Christening gowns for eachBrett; of her Ashley and her husband, grandchildren.

Wesleigh and her husband, Doris was preceded inher death by Joey; Myles; Anna and her father Arthur Raymond Jones, husband, Taylor; Avery and her her mother Mary Ellen Cameron husband, Sean; and Patrick.

Jones, and her sister Maryanne She was recently blessed Jones Brantley. with two beautiful great Survivors include her two granddaughters: Lyla and precious daughters: Amy Cameron Leighton.

Her legacy is rich. Neal Coleman (partner Dr. Edward

Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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STATE & NATION Report: Abortion declined significantly in North Carolina in first month after new restrictions The Associated Press RALEIGH — North Carolina appears to have had a significant decline in abortions performed in the first month after new restrictions approved by state legislators took effect, according to estimates released Wednesday by a research group.

The findings by the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion policies, are based on data collected from a sample of abortion providers in the state as part of its new effort by the group to calculate monthly trends in abortions — both surgical and medication — nationwide.

A new law approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly over the veto of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper that started July 1 banned nearly all abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with additional exceptions for rape and incest and for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies.

Before July 1, North Carolina had a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks.

The data showed an estimated 2,920 abortions were provided in July in North Carolina within the state’s formal health care system, compared with an estimated 4,230 in June, or a 31% decline, according to Guttmacher’s Monthly Abortion Provision Study. It found the state

AP PHOTO

Protesters on both sides of the issue hold signs as North Carolina House members debate, Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Raleigh. had by far the largest decline nationwide, which saw an estimated 7% month-over-month reduction.

The group’s policy experts contend that while the new 12week near-ban is having an effect on discouraging abortion, a new in-person requirement to receive state-mandated counseling may be more influential.

That requires a woman seeking an abortion to visit a provider to comply with the state’s previously approved 72-hour waiting period, rather than check in with a

phone call.

Traveling twice to a provider, who could be hours away, may be too onerous for some women, leading some to obtain abortion pills on their own by mail or to carry their pregnancy to term, according to the Institute.

The July estimate “likely represents both North Carolinians and out-of-state patients who are no longer able to access vital reproductive health care due to arbitrary gestational bans and medically unnecessary barriers,” lsaac Maddow-Zimet, who leads

Guttmacher’s new study project, said in a news release.

The group’s analysis cautioned that North Carolina’s marked decline could in part reflect seasonal variations in when pregnancies occur and that trends may change in the months ahead as patients and providers adapt to the new law.

The report, which collects data back to January, showed North Carolina’s abortion totals largely steady for the first six months of the year.

The group said its new data showed no increases in abortions provided in South Carolina, Virginia, the District of Columbia or Maryland, which could have contributed to North Carolina’s decline in July if they occurred.

The conservative North Carolina Values Coalition, which supports pro-life policies, said it was encouraged by the reduction in abortions as the law was carried out. The new law also included funds to increase contraceptive services, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and provide paid maternity leave for state employees and teachers.

“It is great news that the lives of more innocent unborn children are being saved and that the new law appears to be working to keep North Carolina from being a destination for abortion,” Executive Director Tami

Republican Jeff Landry wins the Louisiana governor’s race, reclaims office for GOP The Associated Press BATON ROUGE, La. — Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, has won the Louisiana governor’s race, holding off a crowded field of candidates.

The win is a major victory for the GOP as they reclaim the governor’s mansion for the first time in eight years. Landry will replace current Gov. John Bel Edwards, who was unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits. Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the Deep South.

“Today’s election says that our state is united,” Landry said during his victory speech Saturday night. “It’s a wake up call and it’s a message that everyone should hear loud and clear, that we the people in this state are going to expect more out of our government from here on out.”

By garnering more than half of the votes, Landry avoided an expected runoff under the state’s “jungle primary” system. The last time there wasn’t a gubernatorial runoff in Louisiana was in 2011 and 2007, when Bobby Jin-

dal, a Republican, won the state’s top position.

The governor-elect, who celebrated with supporters during a watch party in Broussard, Louisiana, described the election as “historic.”

Landry, 52, has raised the profile of attorney general since taking office in 2016. He has used his office to champion conservative policy positions. More recently, Landry has been in the spotlight over his involvement and staunch support of Louisiana laws that have drawn much debate, including banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youths, the state’s near-total abortion ban that doesn’t have exceptions for cases of rape and incest, and a law restricting youths’ access to “sexually explicit material” in libraries, which opponents fear will target LGBTQ+ books.

Landry has repeatedly clashed with Edwards over matters in the state, including LGBTQ rights, state finances and the death penalty. However the Republican has also repeatedly put Louisiana in national fights, including

over President Joe Biden’s policies that limit oil and gas production and COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Landry spent two years on Capitol Hill, beginning in 2011, where he represented Louisiana’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District. Prior to his political career, Landry served 11 years in the Louisiana Army National Guard, was a local police officer, sheriff’s deputy and attorney.

During the gubernatorial election season, Landry had long been considered the early frontrunner, winning the endorsement of high profile Republicans — Trump and U.S. Rep Steve Scalise — and a controversial early endorsement from the state GOP. In addition, Landry has enjoyed a sizable fundraising advantage over the rest of the field throughout the race.

Landry has made clear that one of his top priorities as governor would be addressing crime in urban areas. The Republican has pushed a tough-on-crime rhetoric, calling for more “transparency” in the justice system and continuing to support cap-

ital punishment. Louisiana has the nation’s second-highest murder rate per capita.

Along the campaign trail, Landry faced political attacks from opponents on social media and in interviews, calling him a bully and making accusations of backroom deals to gain support. He also faced scrutiny for skipping all but one of the major-televised debates.

Among other gubernatorial candidates on the ballot were GOP state Sen. Sharon Hewitt; Hunter Lundy, a Lake Charlesbased attorney running as an independent; Republican state Treasurer John Schroder; Stephen Waguespack, the Republican former head of a powerful business group and former senior aide to then-Gov. Jindal; and Shawn Wilson, the former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and sole major Democratic candidate.

Wilson, who was the runner-up, said during his concession speech that he had called Landry to congratulate him on his victory. The Democrat said

Fitzgerald said in a separate news release.

After the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v.

Wade, North Carolina had become a refuge for residents in nearby states like Georgia, Tennessee and West Virginia that severely restricted or banned abortions. Guttmacher estimated abortions in North Carolina had increased 55% during the first half of 2023 compared with half of the total for 2020 across all months.

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and a doctor sued in June over provisions in the new law. A federal judge has blocked two such portions, including a requirement that abortions performed after 12 weeks occur in a hospital.

For the report, Guttmacher officials said that abortions are counted as having occurred when a patient had a surgical abortion — also called a procedural abortion — or abortion pills were dispensed.

The group said it doesn’t release specific numbers of facilities sampled to protect confidentiality. But Guttmacher oversampled the number of facilities — clinics, hospitals or doctor’s offices among them — in North Carolina to better calculate the effect of the new restrictions, according to a spokesperson.

during their phone call, he asked the governor-elect to keep Medicaid expansion, increase teacher pay and “educate our children the way they need to be educated.”

“The citizens of Louisiana spoke, or didn’t speak, and made a decision,” Wilson said.

Also on Saturday’s ballot were five other statewide contests and four ballot measures.

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser won reelection Saturday night, but other races won’t be decided until November.

One closely watched race is for attorney general, which holds the highest legal authority in the state’s executive branch. Liz Baker Murrill, a Republican who currently works at the Attorney General’s Office and Lindsey Cheek, a Democrat and trial attorney, have advanced to a November runoff.

Also advancing to a runoff in the state treasurer race is John Fleming, Republican, and Dustin Granger, Democrat.

In the secretary of state race, First Assistant Secretary of State Nancy Landry, a Republican, and Gwen Collins-Greenup, a Democrat and attorney, will advance to a runoff. The winner in November will have the task of replacing Louisiana’s outdated voting machines, which do not produce the paper ballots critical to ensuring accurate election results.

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Another day at the office Members of the Asheboro Fire Department strategize at a live fire training exercise. The training, which involved burning a to-bedemolished structure, allows firefighters to gain invaluable experience and team building in a (somewhat) controlled environment.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Ramseur Elementary joining Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Ramseur Elementary School in Randolph County is among a record-setting 256 North Carolina elementary schools set to participate in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) for the 2023-24 school year.

This marks the largest number of schools participating in the program in a given school year.

The FFVP, administered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and funded by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant, provides free fresh fruits and vegetables to children during the school day.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt emphasized the importance of the program in promoting healthy eating habits among students. “The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grant exposes students to a wide variety of foods and helps set the course for healthy habits into their adulthood,” Truitt said.

In-person early voting begins Thursday The one-stop early voting period for Nov. 7 elections across North Carolina begins Thursday, Oct. 19. Voters must show identification in this year’s elections.

On the ballot in Randolph County this year are contests for Asheboro City Schools Board of Education, Asheboro City Council, High Point Mayor and City Council, City of Randleman Aldermen, Thomasville Mayor and City Council, Franklinville Town Commissioner, Liberty Mayor, Ramseur Mayor and Town Commissioner, Seagrove Town Commissioner, and Staley Mayor and Town Commissioner.

Randolph County’s early inperson voting location is at the Board of Elections office at 1457 N. Fayetteville St. in Asheboro.

One-stop, in-person early voting ends for November municipal elections on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Randolph County School Board examines dropout data, low-performing schools Board also reviews recent grants and audit report findings

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Schools Board of Education met Monday, Oct. 16, with updates on various district items, including new data on dropout rates, a list of underperforming schools, and details on some received grants and a financial audit.

RCS had 111 dropouts for the 2021-22 school year, a decrease from the previous year.

“We report 7-12 grade dropouts,” said Executive Director of Administrative Services for Students Edwina Ashworth, noting that this data is for the 2021-2022 school year. “The school system as a whole was at 1.5% and the state as a whole was 1.54%.”

For the 2008-09 school year, by comparison, Randolph Coun-

ty was at a 5% dropout rate, while the state of North Carolina was at 4.5%. Randolph improved above the NC state average for 2021, but dropped down below again this year.

“It’s thanks to a lot of work from our student advocates and our social workers to collaborate, continue to find students and to provide students alternate opportunities to work with them so they won’t be a dropout,” Ashworth said. “I know this goes without saying but one is too many, it should be zero and we understand that.”

The board was presented with low-performing school designations from the state, with 12 schools designated as such.

“The Randolph County School System was notified by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction that 12 schools within our school system have been designated as low-performing schools,” said Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Cathy Waddell. “Schools designated as low-performing are: Eastern

“12 schools within our school system have been designated as lowperforming schools.”

RCS Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Cathy Waddell Randolph High School, Franklinville Elementary School, Liberty Elementary School, Northeastern Randolph Middle School, Ramseur Elementary School, Randleman Elementary School, Randleman Middle School, Southeastern Randolph Middle School, Southwestern Randolph High School, Trinity Elementary School, Trinity Middle School and Uwharrie Ridge Six-Twelve.”

The board was also updated on three grants that Randolph County Schools received. The first was

Southern Pines resident crowned Miss Randolph County UNC Chapel Hill student and Topsail High School sophomore win titles, set to compete in state pageant next June

By Bob Sutton Ramdolph Record RANDLEMAN — A 21-yearold Southern Pines resident is the new Miss Randolph County. Ashley Leonard, a student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, won the title in a competition Saturday night and will represent Randolph County in the Miss North Carolina competition next year.

Ila Monical, 15, a sophomore at Topsail High School in Hampstead, was crowned Miss Randolph County Teen.

DAVID SINCLAIR | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

a Donors Choose Grant for $435 for Randleman Middle School to provide a classroom set of math manipulatives for learning fractions. The second was a Thomas Tire Extra Mile Grant of $500 for Trinity High School to provide funding for classroom organization materials, lab supplies and writable surfaces. The third grant was a DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation Sports Matter Program Grant of $5,000 for Uwharrie Ridge Six-Twelve to provide funding to replace equipment in the school fitness center.

The board also reviewed the findings of its 2022-23 Audit Report, conducted by Anderson Smith & Wike PLLC, with a clean report and opinion from the auditors. According to Dennison, RCS increased its fund balance amount by about $2.5 million, ending the fiscal year with a total of around $9.6 million in fund balance.

The Randolph County Schools Board of Education will next meet Nov. 20.

interview, health and fitness, talent, red carpet/evening gown and on-stage interview/conversation.

Leonard performed a viola solo to the song “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” for her talent and presented her community service initiative “Love Doesn’t Hurt” to the judges.

In addition to the crown and title of Miss Randolph County, Leonard also received a $1,000 scholarship from the Kiwanis Club of Asheboro, along with other monetary and gift items from sponsors.

Monical’s talent was a musical theater performance and her community service initiative is “You Know Me, Not My Story.”

She received a $500 scholarship.

Both winners will represent Randolph County in the Miss See PAGEANT, page 2

Ashley Leonard, the new Miss Randolph, is crowned by outgoing Miss Randolph Tori Kaitlyn Gross as Taylor Loyd, the current Miss North Carolina, supervises proceedings.

The Kiwanis Club of Asheboro sponsored and operated the competition, which took place at

Randleman Elementary School auditorium. The 10 contestants competed in categories of private

$2.00

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

10.18.23

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 RANDOLPHRECORD.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00

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North Carolina and Miss North Carolina’s Teen competitions next June.

“I am incredibly honored to represent this area for the next year,” Leonard said. “I hope you all follow along with my journey to Miss North Carolina.”

Maxine Ford was the runner-up in the Miss Randolph County competition and Cedrianna Huffman was first runner-up in the teen competition.

Miss North Carolina Taylor Loyd, Miss Randolph County 2023 Tori Gross and Miss Randolph County’s Teen 2023 Parker Sterling were in attendance and participated on stage and in the crowning of the winners.

The Miss Randolph County competition is open to contestants from Alamance, Chatham, Davidson, Guilford, Montgomery, Moore and Randolph counties. The Miss North Carolina competition features contestants who win a local competition such as Miss Randolph County.

Some local competitions are open, meaning contestants may come from any of the 100 counties in North Carolina.

Others are limited to a group of adjacent counties. The Miss Randolph County Teen portion of Saturday’s competition was open.

Randolph

Guide The Randolph Guide is a quick look at what’s going on in Randolph County.

Oct. 21 Basketmaking 101 | 3:30 - 4:30 pm The Asheboro Public Library at 201 Worth St is holding a basketmaking class, with adults and older children working together to create small reed baskets, while little kids create their own versions. Teens welcome.

Oct. 21 DAVID SINCLAIR | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The new Miss Randolph County Teen (previously called Outstanding Teen) Ila Monical, of Topsail High School in Hampstead, beams with pride after her win.

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Zoo City Sportsplex grand opening postponed Construction delays push back debut of multi-million dollar sports facility

By Bob Sutton Ramdolph Record ASHEBORO — The grand opening of the Zoo City Sportsplex has been postponed due to construction delays.

“Anything of this size, you’re going to run into some issues and might have some delays,” said Jonathan Sermon, recreation services director for the city of Asheboro.

The grand opening was initially scheduled for this week, but it has been postponed following an announcement from the city last week.

“The project team and the city’s contractors have been working diligently to ready the facility for its formal opening,” the city’s statement read. “Unfortunately, labor and material shortages combined with significant construction activity in the Piedmont Triad Region, have prevented paving from being finished in time for the ceremony. This delay is beyond everyone’s control and we continue to work with our partners to prepare the site for this exciting milestone.”

Parts of the new facility

have been in use for several weeks.

More paving is needed before large crowds can be accommodated at the sportsplex, Sermon said.

“We were hoping the entire thing would be paved by now,” he said.

Paving is nearly complete in the upper part of the park, but it hasn’t started in the lower level yet.

Upon completion, the park should have about 800 parking spots, according to Sermon. He added that a paving project in the Mebane area has delayed the availability of crews working on the Asheboro park.

The park remains a construction site during the day but opens for some activities in late afternoons.

The Randolph-Asheboro YMCA is using the sportsplex for its challenge soccer program, and youth football teams are also utilizing the facility. Uwharrie Charter

Academy is renting the main soccer field for boys’ games this season.

The sportsplex, located along Old Cox Road and Zoo Parkway, is designed to accommodate various sports and recreational activities.

The approximately 100-acre facility comes with a price tag exceeding $15 million.

Other aspects of the park are also nearing completion.

“There’s still a lot of little projects to get wrapped up,” Sermon said.

The painting on the pickleball courts should be nearly complete. However, volleyball equipment expected last week for the sand courts has been delayed.

Some walking trails have been opened, Sermon said, and the dog park is fenced, but there’s additional work to be done in that area.

The official grand opening will be rescheduled, with the date depending on progress.

If the paving project is completed in the next few weeks, the grand opening could occur this fall. Otherwise, it might be moved to the spring, Sermon said.

“It all hinges on this paving,” Sermon said.

A “Business After Hours” event, part of the Asheboro/ Randolph Chamber, was scheduled to coincide with this week’s grand opening.

Hammett, Samuel (M, 24), Arrested on charge of Sewage Disposal Violation on 10/10, at 928 Mack Rd.

Firearm, PWIMSD Schedule III CS, Possess Marijuana Marijuana up to 1/2oz, on 10/9, at 10207 S Main St.

x Moody, Dalton (M, 23), Arrested on charge of Maintain Place CS, Possess Meth, Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, on 10/10, at 811 New Century Dr.

x Garcia, Maria (F, 24), Arrested on charge of Injury to Real Property, Breaking or Entering, on 10/9, at 298 N Staley St.

The grand opening was initially scheduled for this week, but has been postponed following an announcement from the city last week.

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A Day On Main Street | 9 am - 5 pm Downtown Ramseur’s Fall Fest with food, music, crafts, arts and more. Over 220 Vendors spaces will be packed into downtown. Join us for one of the largest Randolph County Festivals. Free trolley service will run from Harmony Baptist, First Christian and Ramseur Wesleyan Parking lots from 9 am to 5 pm.

Oct. 21 & 22 Boo at the NC Zoo Get your kids ready for the beloved Boo at the North Carolina Zoo! This annual, family-friendly Halloween event serves sweet treats and more, perfect for kids 4-12.

Dress up your little ones to enter fun costume contests, enjoy trick or treating, and have a howling good time with festive games.

Oct. 24 Spooky Stories for All Ages | 5:30pm The Asheboro Public Library at 201 Worth St hosts author and costume, prop, and puppet builder Cheralyn Lambeth as she shares kid-friendly creepy ghost stories around a faux indoor campfire.

CRIME LOG x Capps, Justin (M, 29), Arrested on charge of Assault Inflict Serious Injury, Assault by Pointing a Gun, Interfere with Emergency Comm, Misdemeanor Larceny, DV Protective Order Violation, on 10/11, at 3302 Green Glade Rd. x Petty, Jacob (M, 18), Arrested on charge of Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, Possess F-WN/LQ/ MXBV <21, on 10/11, at 5871 Mendenhall Rd. x Starnes, Trent (M, 27), Arrested on charge of Misdemeanor Child Abuse, Simple Possess Schedule II CS, on 10/11, at 176 E Salisbury St. x Biles, Jessica (F, 23), Arrested on charge of Sewage Disposal Violation, on 10/10, at 928 Mack Rd.

x Watson, Neil (M, 42), Arrested on charge of Felony Larceny, Possession of Stolen Goods, on 10/10, at 1049 Ingram Dr. x Fowler, Bobby (M, 48), Arrested on charge of Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Firearm by Felon, Possession of Stolen

x Gasey, Meagen (F, 27), Arrested on charge of Obtain Property False Pretense, First Deg Tresp Enter/Remain, on 10/9, at 767 New Century Dr. x Alvarez, Sergio (M, 32), Arrested on charge of Second Degree Trespass, on 10/8, at 2301 Lambert Dr. x Little, Joseph (M, 25), Arrested on charge of Assault on a Female, Communicating Threats, on 10/8, at 613 Glovinia St.

DEATH NOTICES

x Eric Vance Krigbaum, age 61 and born in Lemay, MO, died October 8, 2023. x Harriet Hight Goins, age 87 of Asheboro, died Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at her home. x Carolyn Bolick Butcher, age 77 of Asheboro, died Thursday, October 5, 2023 at Clapps Nursing Home with Hospice Care.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

3

OPINION

de

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

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

Authoritarian thugs continue their persecution of Jack Phillips

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

I’VE BEEN WRITING ABOUT Denver-area baker Jack Phillips for over a decade now. It’s clear to me he’s going to be badgered into the grave by authoritarians intent on punishing him for thought crimes. From the first time his name appeared in the news until this day, the media have misled the public about him, about the case and about the law.

The latest chapter in Phillips’ Kafkaesque saga involves a transgender lawyer named Autumn Scardina, who demanded Phillips create a pink cake with blue frosting to help celebrate a gender transition. As expected, Phillips, who’d already spent years fighting government coercion, refused to participate.

The Colorado Civil Rights Commission agreed that Scardina had been discriminated against as a transgender person. Then, the dishonorable A. Bruce Jones of the 2nd Judicial District upheld the commission’s flagrant attack on free expression. Now, the Colorado Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case.

The entire case is built on ludicrous contortions of logic and law. The Colorado Court of Appeals, for instance, ruled in favor of Scardina, contending that the colors pink and blue aren’t really speech because, in and of themselves, they aren’t expressive of anything. The message, says the court, is “generated by the observer.”

Yes. Because Phillips isn’t a complete idiot, he understands that context matters. The color white has no inherent meaning, either. If a known Klansman

asks a tailor to fit him for some white sheets, it definitely does.

Then again, if you believe Scardina just happened to approach the most famous Christian baker in the country to create a “transition” cake the same day the Supreme Court announced it would hear the Masterpiece case in 2017, you’re certainly an idiot. The entire Scardina episode, including the configuration of the cake — using colors but no words — was calibrated to set Phillips up.

In the initial complaint to the Civil Rights Commission, Scardina claimed to be “stunned” by Phillip’s rejection. It should be noted, because it isn’t in any media coverage, that Phillips’ lawyers had very good reason to suspect Scardina, whose name appeared on a caller ID, first requested “an image of Satan smoking marijuana.” Later, an email was sent to the shop requesting “a three-tiered white cake” with a “large figure of Satan, licking a (nine-inch) black Dildo ... that can be turned on before we unveil the cake.”

Then again, Scardina admitted it was a setup. As the Associated Press reported last year, according to the activist’s lawyer, “She called Phillips’ Masterpiece Cakeshop to place the order after hearing about the court’s announcement because she wanted to find out if he really meant it ... It was more of calling someone’s bluff.”

There was no bluff to call. Phillips isn’t going to create cakes to celebrate gay weddings or gender transitions or the grand openings of strip clubs or bawdy bachelor parties or for a ‘happy divorce!’ or any other event that undermines his

faith. And even if he was the biggest hypocrite in all of Christendom — which he most certainly isn’t — it wouldn’t change anything. Americans don’t have to justify their free expression to anyone.

Scardina claims the lawsuit was intended to “challenge the veracity” of Phillips’ claim that he would serve LGBTQ customers. This is the central lie of the case. Phillips never once refused to sell a gay couple or a transgender person or anyone else anything in his store. But Phillips isn’t Scardina’s servant, and the government has no right to compel him to endorse or participate in any lifestyle.

Speaking of which, the media keeps contending that Phillips is looking for a religious “carve out” in antidiscrimination law — or something along those lines. No such thing exists.

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment or just instinctively dismiss it, but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

Anything that infringes on those rights is the “carve out,” not the other way around.

If “anti-discrimination” laws dictate that the government can compel Americans to express ideas they disagree with, as Colorado does, then anti-discrimination laws need to be overturned, tout de suite.

At this point, the best-case scenario is for Phillips’ case to reach SCOTUS, so the court can either repair the Masterpiece decision — which basically provided the state and activists with a guidebook on bullying people of faith (basically, don’t show public animosity while doing it) — or shelve the First Amendment.

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter. The chain is unbroken.

And for two millennia, since the destruction of the last Jewish dynasty in the holy land of Israel, those Jew-haters were ascendant.

No longer. That is the promise of the State of Israel.

Never again.

The Jews will not stand by and be murdered. They will not leave their Biblical homeland. They will not surrender. They will be strong and courageous, as Joshua said three thousand years ago.

Israel is indispensable. Its presence is a miracle, its strength a gift.

Thank God for the State of Israel.

There are those who say that antiZionism is not antisemitism. Tell that to the dead women and children in Sderot.

Tell that to Hamas, who proclaim in their charter: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

There are those who say that the Israeli-Arab conflict is a “cycle of violence.” Only the morally blind and obtuse could ever say such a thing.

Look at the videos. Look at the pictures.

That is what evil looks like.

LOOK. Look, because this is what moral equivalence brings. Rape of women.

Kidnapping of children. Murder of

hundreds of innocents, including full families.

For decades, we’ve been told that to look evil in its face was somehow unsophisticated. That to pretend evil away was an act of intellectual virtue.

That to cater to evil, to concede to evil, was the pathway toward a better world.

It was all a damned lie.

LOOK. There are those who proclaim the complexity of it all. Those people are fools. What’s worse, they are enablers of evil, fellow travelers, justifiers of the worst human rights violations on the planet, from targeting civilians to hiding behind them.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. This was the worst week for Jews since the Holocaust.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. Look it in the face. I know that you will. I know you will because I am a Jew, and because I am an American.

Americans love justice. Americans love good. Americans resonate to the book of Psalms, that says, “Hate evil, those who love the Lord.”

Hate evil. And fight it. Americans always have, and they always will.

I know we will.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

I am a Jew

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter.

I AM A JEW. Those have been the words of the Jewish people for three millennia.

Those were the words of the men, women and children of Masada.

Those were the words of the followers of Bar Kochba.

Those were the words of Jews in Granada in 1066 and the Rhineland in 1096 and Khmelnytsky from 16481657 and Kishinev in 1903, in Hebron in 1929.

Those were the words of Jews in Auschwitz and Treblinka.

Those were the words of Daniel Pearl.

Those are my words, too.

They are the words of my parents, my wife, my children.

Over the weekend, my people were attacked. Murdered. Mutilated. Our women raped. Our children kidnapped.

This has happened millions of times before, to millions of Jews. Jew-hatred exists because evil exists. Because there are people who have, for all of human history, hated the Jews and sought to strike at them while they are weak. Who have blamed the Jews for their own problems, who have crafted complex conspiracy theories about the supposed power of the Jews, who have sought to destroy the Jews.

From Pharoah to Haman. From Hitler to Hamas.

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

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

4 SIDELINE REPORT

SPORTS

MLB

Cardinals staff shaken after armed robbery at Dominican Republic complex Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Authorities are seeking at least five people in an armed robbery of the St. Louis Cardinals complex in the Dominican Republic on Friday. Dominican Republic police spokesman Diego Pesqueira told The Associated Press that the suspects bound and gagged a security guard and stole watches, rings, necklaces and other items from athletes and personnel.

Pesqueira said the suspects used the guard’s shoelaces to tie his wrists and ankles together. No one was injured, and no shots were fired, he said. A statement from the Cardinals said baseball equipment was also stolen. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak says players and staff at the complex were shaken.

NFL

49ers’ Kittle fined $13K-plus for profane T-shirt Santa Clara, Calif.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was fined more than $13,000 by the NFL for wearing a profane T-shirt about the Dallas Cowboys. Kittle wore a T-shirt under his uniform last week that said “F Dallas,” with the rest of the first word hidden by white tape. He exposed it to the national television audience after a touchdown run in the fourth quarter

by Jordan Mason. The league announced that Kittle was fined $13,659 for the infraction. Kittle said earlier in the week that he expected to be fined but said it would be worth the penalty “100%. I’d do it again.”

AUTO RACING

Paralyzed driver Wickens wins IMSA class title Braselton, Georgia Robert Wickens, paralyzed from the waist down in an IndyCar crash five years ago, won an IMSA class title at Road Atlanta on Friday. Wickens uses a car equipped with hand controls for paralyzed drivers. He and co-driver Harry Gottsacker finished fourth in the Fox Factory 120 to claim the title. The Bryan Herta Autosports entry needed to finish in eighth to clinch the championship. Wickens said he felt like he proved he could return last year and believes this season’s run to the title was more streamlined and professional.

TENNIS

Tel Aviv Open canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war London The Tel Aviv Open tennis tournament scheduled for next month has been canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war. The ATP men’s tour says the decision was made after consultation with security experts and with the safety of players and fans in mind.

The event was scheduled for early November. In last year’s final, Novak Djokovic defeated Marin Cilic in straight sets to take the title.

AP PHOTO

Kyle Larson (5) finishes ahead of Christopher Bell (20) and Zane Smith (38) to win Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at Las Vegas.

Larson earns spot in title race with victory at Las Vegas The 2021 champion clinched a spot in the winner-take-all race at Phoenix on Nov. 5 The Associated Press LAS VEGAS — Kyle Larson used a spectacular midrace save, got a lightning fast final pit stop from his Hendrick Motorsports crew, then held off Christopher Bell at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway finish line to become the first driver locked into the Cup Series’ championship finale.

The 2021 Cup champion earned the first of four spots in the Nov. 5 title-deciding finale with his win in Sunday’s opening race of the round of eight of the playoffs.

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races,” said Larson.

Larson’s fourth win of the season was the most important: Hendrick Motorsports could

theoretically coast through the next two weeks and focus mostly on preparing for the finale at Phoenix Raceway. Joey Logano won Las Vegas last year and parlayed the two weeks of prep time into a championship-clinching win at Phoenix.

There won’t be any rest for the No. 5 team, though.

“If we just say, ‘Hey, we’re going to cruise for the next two weeks,’ then you are not operating with the edge that I think you’re going to need to win it in Phoenix,” said crew chief Cliff Daniels. “There’s two more races to win, and the way I see this now is that we’re in the position, we get to play those races to win.”

Larson led 133 laps and beat Bell by 0.082 seconds.

He needed a pretty remarkable save in the second stage when his Chevy wiggled and Larson somehow escaped with only denting the rear corner of the car into the wall. It was a save that Daniels believes only

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races.”

Kyle Larson Larson could pull off.

“I just tried to take a deep breath and really forget about that as quickly as possible and get refocused,” Larson said.

It kept him in contention and Larson claimed the lead on pit road when his crew had the fastest stop following a caution with 57 laps remaining. Bell had control of the race at that point, but Larson was first off pit road.

Bell, who started on the pole in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, was third after the pit stop.

Passing seemed particularly difficult Sunday at Las Vegas, and Bell was sort of stuck following Larson for the rest of the race.

But he made a run at Larson

UNC’s Maye, NC State’s Wilson headline AP’s ACC midyear honorees Clemson was voted the most disappointing team The Associated Press UNC QUARTERBACK DRAKE MAYE, NC State linebacker Payton Wilson and Louisville coach Jeff Brohm headline the honorees in The Associated Press’ midseason report for the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Maye was picked as the top offensive player through the season’s first half in voting by AP writers covering league teams, while Wilson was picked as top defensive player. Brohm was the choice as top coach after the Cardinals’ fast start, which also made Louisville the pick as the most surprising team so far.

Maye, a third-year passer and top NFL prospect, edged out quarterback Jordan Travis of fourth-ranked Florida State after helping the No. 12 Tar Heels (5-0, 2-0) post their best start since 1997. He entered the season facing massive expectations and got off to a slow start with TD throws as the team leaned more on the running game under new coordinator Chip Lindsey, but

AP PHOTO

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson was voted as the ACC’s top defensive player at the season’s midway point by The Associated Press. he ranks among the Bowl Subdivision leaders in passing yardage (fourth, 325.8), total offense (360.6) and completion percentage (14th, 72.1%) while also running for four scores.

“Drake has thrown for a few more yards this year than he did this time last year, and it’s been against tougher competition,”

UNC coach Mack Brown said.

Wilson has been a relentless presence in the middle of the Wolfpack’s defense. He’s fourth in FBS with 11.7 tackles per game, and he’s had at least nine stops in every game.

“He’s the leader of this football team,” Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren said. “He’s the best player on

over the final handful of laps, closing the gap each time by the flag stand. As they closed in on the checkered flag, Bell gave it one furious push inside of Larson but couldn’t beat him to the line.

“I don’t know what else I could have done,” a dejected Bell said. “I feel like that was my moment. That was my moment to make the final four and didn’t capture it. It would have been nice to lock in.”

Larson praised Bell, his longtime sprint car rival, for racing him cleanly to the finish line.

“I could see him coming in my mirror, for sure,” Larson said of Bell’s closing rate. “Thankfully, Christopher always races extremely clean. Could have got crazier than it did coming to the start/finish line. Thank you to him for racing with respect there.”

Kyle Busch, a Las Vegas native, finished third in a Chevrolet. He was followed by Brad Keselowski in a Ford and Ross Chastain in a Chevrolet. All three were eliminated from the playoffs last Sunday at Charlotte.

The Cup Series goes to Homestead-Miami Speedway next Sunday for the middle race in the round of eight. Larson is the defending race winner.

this football team.”

As for Brohm, he left Purdue to return to the program where he starred as a passer. His Cardinals (6-0, 3-0 ACC) were picked to finish eighth in the league, but they’re off to their best start since 2013 after ending Notre Dame’s 30-game winning streak against ACC teams in the regular season.

“We’ve raised the bar here a little bit with this past win,” Brohm said. “If you want to be good, you’ve got to back it up every week. If you can’t back it up every week, then you’re really not that good.”

Clemson, which was picked ahead of FSU to win the ACC for the eighth time in nine years, was voted the most disappointing team. The Tigers opened the season at No. 9 but was blown out in its season opener at Duke, tumbled 16 spots to No. 25 for one week and then ultimately fell out of the poll before falling to FSU for an 0-2 ACC start.

At Virginia, coach Tony Elliott was named the coach on the hottest seat.

Elliott is 4-12 in Year 2 with the Cavaliers (1-5, 0-2), including 1-8 in ACC play. Two of those four wins have come against Coastal Athletic Association teams from the Championship Subdivision.

Elsewhere, Boston College’s Jeff Hafley started his tenure with a pair of six-win seasons but went 3-9 last year with the Eagles (3-3, 1-2).

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

PREP ROUNDUP

BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Asheboro boys stay on track in soccer Randolph Record ASHEBORO HAS MOVED past the midway mark in Mid-Piedmont Conference boys’ soccer and remains unscathed.

Asheboro’s Diego Bustamante scored three goals as the Blue Comets topped Oak Grove 5-2.

That pushed Asheboro’s league record to 6-0 with four games remaining.

Earlier in the week, the Blue Comets defeated Montgomery Central 4-0 with goals from Daniel Gutierrez, Aranth Gomez, Tyler Smith and Bustamante. ** In a Piedmont Athletic Conference showdown, Southwestern Randolph nipped Randleman 2-1 in overtime last week.

Freshman Kevin Garcia had two goals and David Lopez scored the other goal for the Cougars, who received two assists from Fernando Hernandez.

The result put both teams at 8-1 in league play with three games remaining. The outcome avenged a one-goal loss to the Tigers from last month.

Hernandez and David Lopez each racked up two goals in Southwestern Randolph’s 4-2 victory against host Trinity.

Also earlier in the week, Randleman defeated visiting Wheatmore 1-0.

5

State playoffs are scheduled to begin this weekend for volleyball following this week’s conference tournaments.

Volleyball The first round of the state playoffs is set for Saturday.

Seeds and pairings should come out Thursday.

The PAC Tournament has been going on this week, with the championship match set for Wednesday night at Southwestern Randolph. ** Southwestern Randolph had already secured the PAC championship, but the Cougars capped the regular season in style.

They swept second-place Uwharrie Charter Academy for a 25-22, 25-20, 25-20 road victory to go 12-0 in regular-season conference play.

That result gave Southwestern Randolph a nine-match winning streak head into this week’s PAC Tournament. In those nine matches, the Cougars posted sweeps seven times. ** In the Mid-Piedmont Conference, Asheboro placed second behind Oak Grove with an 8-2 league mark.

The Blue Comets received

a first-round bye in the conference tournament. Semifinals and final are slated for Oak Grove, wrapping up Wednesday.

The Blue Comets won their last six regular-season matches. That stretch concluded by defeating visiting Montgomery Central 25-19, 25-14, 25-18 behind Piper Davidson’s 27 digs, Eva Vuncannon’s 32 assists, Sion Murrain’s 18 kills, Ellen Long’s 17 kills and Lia’s George’s 13 kills, 13 digs and three aces.

Kaleb Freeman

Girls’ tennis Carmen Turgeon of Wheatmore captured the PAC singles championship by defeating Providence Grove’s Maya Barber 10-4 in the title match at Asheboro Memorial Park.

Sammie Parks of Southwestern Randolph ended up in third place by defeating Wheatmore’s Sarah Smith 10-1.

The Southwestern Randolph tandem of Allie Popp and Lindsi Brown won the doubles title by defeating Trinity’s Karla Rios and DeAnna Cobb 8-5 in the final.

Third place in doubles went to Providence Grove’s Noelle Swaim and Abby Greeson, who were 8-4 winners against Randleman’s Stevi Robbins and Gracie Rich.

Girls’ golf Addison Allen of Asheboro placed seventh in the Mid-Piedmont Conference championships last week at Sapona Country Club in Lexington. That earned her a spot in the Class 3-A regionals Oct. 23 at The Valley Golf Course in Burlington.

FILE PHOTO

Kaleb Freeman of Southwestern Randolph heads a ball during a game earlier this season against Randleman.

Southwestern Randolph, boys’ soccer Freeman has been a defender during Southwestern Randolph’s breakthrough season.

Entering this week with a 16-2-1 record, the Cougars had more victories than in the last two seasons combined.

Freeman has contributed to the play at the defensive end that has helped Southwestern Randolph rack up nine shutouts.

He also has registered a pair of goals and an assist.

SCOTT PELKEY | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Randleman quarterback John Kirkpatrick picks up yards on a run as Southwestern Randolph’s Chris Leon-Avalos, left, and Caleb Shelton pursue him during Friday night’s game.

Eastern Randolph, Randleman post shutouts

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record RAMSEUR — Lucas Smith ran for four touchdowns and Eastern Randolph registered its fourth consecutive shutout as the host Wildcats blew out neighboring Providence Grove 47-0 in a Piedmont Athletic Conference football game Friday night.

The Wildcats (7-1 overall, 3-0 PAC) built a 28-0 halftime lead on the way to their seventh consecutive victory.

Carter Revelle threw for two touchdowns, racking up 155 yards on 10-for-13 passing.

Rayden West and Nicah Taylor had the receiving touchdowns.

Providence Grove (5-3, 1-2) lost for the third time in its last four games.

Randleman 24, Southwestern Randolph 0: At Randleman, John Kirkpatrick threw two touchdown passes and the Tigers’ defense picked off three passes in the PAC victory.

Tyshaun Goldson, Thomas Dobias and Chase Farlow intercepted passes as Randleman (80, 3-0) recorded its second shutout of the season. The Tigers benefited from four total Southwestern Randolph turnovers.

Edison Hernandez gained 155 rushing yards with one touchdown. Goldston also scored on a run, while Lane Swaim and Gregory Price made touchdown

PREP FOOTBALL — WEEK 10 Thursday night’s games Ledford at Asheboro Friday night’s games Wheatmore at Eastern Randolph Southwestern Randolph at Providence Grove Randleman at Trinity

catches.

The Tigers led 12-0 in the first quarter and later scored one touchdown in each of the third and fourth quarters.

Southwestern Randolph quarterback Noah Stills, who threw for 102 yards, was intercepted three times.

The Cougars (5-3, 1-2) have been involved in three consecutive games with shutouts, losing two of those.

Kirkpatrick was intercepted once by Nathan Ellis.

Trinity 27, Wheatmore 12: At Trinity, the visiting Bulldogs intercepted four passes – and scored two touchdowns on defense – to help secure the PAC victory in this cross-town rivalry.

First-year Trinity coach Bear Bradley was the Wheatmore coach from 2013-16.

Brandon Campbell scored two touchdowns and on a two-

point conversion run.

Trinity (4-4, 1-2) received a boost from Nathan Mathai’s return of a fumble and Campbell’s interception return for touchdowns. The Bulldogs also scored on Dominic Payne’s run and Noah Bradley’s pass to Campbell.

Adrian Goodwin, Kasey Blakeney and Cam Nelson also intercepted passes for Trinity, which benefited from six total turnovers.

Payne rushed for 113 yards on eight carries.

Wheatmore (2-6, 0-3), which trailed 14-0 at halftime, lost its fourth game in a row. Trey Swaney and Jonathan Kelly scored touchdowns for the Warriors.

North Davidson 42, Asheboro 21: At Lexington, the host Black Knights held Asheboro without a point in the second third quarters to help pull away in the Mid-Piedmont Conference game.

North Davidson (3-5, 2-1) racked up its second-highest point total of the season, though half of the points came in the fourth quarter. The first touchdown of the fourth quarter enabled the Black Knights to stretch the lead to 28-7.

Asheboro (1-7, 0-3) has lost seven straight games. Logan Laughlin threw three touchdown passes, racking up 247 yards in the air on 17-for-35 passing. Elijah Woodle made two of the touchdown receptions and Aiden Robinson had the other. Woodle accounted for 107 yards on six catches.

Asheboro’s home game this week vs. Ledford has been moved to Thursday night.

Collins makes it through Caraway special event Randolph Record SOPHIA — Brandon Collins prevailed in the Enduro/Any Car feature in one of the highlights of the Crashin’ Hackett’s Night of Destruction and Terror on Saturday night at Caraway Speedway.

Collins made it through the 50-lap event in the top spot. He was followed by Allen Vance and Justin Smith.

The figure-8 race was won by Tony Black ahead of Buddy Allred. The “Bowling with Cars” competition was won by Daniel Hughes, while Ashley Black was tops in the trailer/boat race. Black Smith was the winner of the Demo Derby.

In more traditional racing on the track, Ron Mock won the UCARs feature by besting the field across 25 laps. Hughes was the runner-up, followed by Jason Richmond, Steven Collins and Josh Phillips.

Jon Morton was the winner in Bootleggers covering 15 laps, followed by fast qualifier Bentley Black, John Turner, Jimmy Crigger and Robbie Perkins.

Next for the speedway is the final card in the points competitions with the regular-season finale Saturday night.

Meanwhile, the North-South Shootout that features Modifieds is taking form. The racing will be held Nov. 4.

Defending champion Matt Hirschman heads the list of early entries for the event.

Two-time North-South winner Burt Myers and his brother Jason Myers along with John Smith, Caleb Heady and Brian Loftin, Paterick Emerling, Ronnie Williams, J.R. Bertuccio, Austin Kochenash and Paul Hartwig III have entered as well.

The CARS Tour will be part of the action that weekend as well with Late Models and Pro Late Models.

It’s time to determine track champions in regular divisions at the speedway.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

6

Sen. Joe Manchin considers independent 2024 run, warns party system could be nation’s ‘downfall’ The Associated Press CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has benefited from waiting to reveal where he stands as the swing vote in a chamber closely divided between Democrats and Republicans.

He’s taken the same approach when it comes to the next phase of his political career: The moderate Democrat has teased possible retirement, a run for reelection to the Senate or even a presidential campaign in 2024 — possibly as an independent candidate.

During a multi-day trip to West Virginia’s capital last week, the 76-year-old expressed growing frustration with the polarized U.S. two-party system.

“I’m having a hard time — I really am,” he said while touring a Charleston metal stamping plant. “The two-party system, unless it changes, will be the downfall of our country.”

Manchin’s visit included the metal plant, which began being revitalized during his governorship, and an Amtrak station renovated with infrastructure funds he helped secure. He told reporters he was “getting closer” to a 2024 decision, repeating his line that he’ll make an announcement before the end of the year. But he deflected questions about his identity as a Democrat, which he’s held since

AP PHOTO

West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin speaks with reporters outside the newly renovated Amtrak train station in Charleston, W.Va. on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. first running for West Virginia’s House of Delegates in 1982.

“Don’t worry about the ‘D’ or the ‘R’, worry about the person — who is that person?” said Manchin, who was a Democratic secretary of state and governor of West Virginia. “There can be a good D and a bad D and a good R and a bad R, but the identity — I like more the independent identity.”

Manchin, who joined Congress in 2010 and rose to prominence in West Virginia politics when both coal and the Democratic Party were king,

has wielded his influence like few other politicians in recent years.

He managed to win reelection in 2018 in one of former President Donald Trump’s most loyal states as the last of his party to hold statewide office in now-deep red West Virginia.

However, some observers say he faces very tough odds if he runs for reelection, particularly as the state’s enormously popular Republican Gov. Jim Justice has entered the race.

Some progressive Democrats over the past few years have

grown weary of Manchin. His vote is one of two they’ve had to beg, convince and cajole in a 51-49 Senate — but his nearly constant chides at many fellow Democrats, particularly President Joe Biden, left them concerned he could switch parties and take away their slim hold on power.

One of his most stunning rebukes of his party came in December 2021 when after months of painstaking negotiations directly with the White House, Manchin pulled his support from a $2 trillion social and environmental bill, dealing a fatal blow to Biden’s leading domestic initiative in his first year in office.

Months later, in a surprise turn of events, Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer crafted a compromise package to ultimately pass and sign into law a modest domestic bill focused on healthcare and climate change.

As Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair, Manchin has used his sway to push a variety of West Virginia initiatives, including support for miners with black lung and the completion of the contested Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline. If he chooses to run for any office, he will be counting on nuts and bolts investments making a difference to voters.

Two Republicans, Justice and

Rep. Alex Mooney, are already vying for Manchin’s Senate seat. The senator had recruited Justice to run for governor as a Democrat before Justice, in a surprise move, switched to the GOP at a rally for Trump during his first term.

Over the last months, Manchin appeared in New Hampshire at an event for No Labels, a national political movement that could offer an independent presidential ticket in 2024. He’s currently holding around $10.8 million in campaign funds, compared to Mooney’s $1.5 million and Justice’s $800,000.

Still, Justice has a high approval rating in West Virginia, making him a formidable opponent for any candidate.

Robert Rupp, a retired political history professor at West Virginia Wesleyan, called Manchin one of the most successful campaigners in recent state history because of his personal relationships with constituents.

The question, Rupp said, is whether Manchin will “risk his reputation and further political career by running for a race where the odds are overwhelmingly against him.”

“On paper, most of the people would write him off, but I haven’t, based on his past record of success,” Rupp said. “I have some doubts that he would run as an independent, since that’s in many ways a road to nowhere.”

The Supreme Court signals support for a Republicanleaning congressional district in South Carolina The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court last week seemed likely to preserve the Republican hold on a South Carolina congressional district against a claim that it treats Black voters unfairly. The outcome could shape the fight for partisan control of the House of Representatives.

The court’s six conservative justices signaled skepticism with a lower court ruling that ordered South Carolina to redraw a coastal district that is held by Republican Rep. Nancy Mace.

Chief Justice John Roberts said a ruling for Black voters who challenged the district “would be breaking new ground in our voting rights jurisprudence.”

When Mace first won election in 2020, she edged Democratic incumbent Rep. Joe Cunningham by 1%, under 5,400 votes.

In 2022, following redistricting driven by the 2020 census results, Mace won reelection by 14%. She is one of eight Republicans who voted to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker.

With Republicans holding a thin margin in the U.S. House, the loss or gain of one seat could alter the balance of power after the 2024 elections.

The Republican-led legislature’s 2022 redistricting moved 30,000 Black residents of Charleston out of Mace’s district.

The state argued that partisan politics, not race, and a population boom in coastal areas explain the congressional map.

“The General Assembly had no reason to and did not use a racial target. It used political data to pursue its political goals,” lawyer John Gore told the court on behalf of the state.

But the lower court concluded that the state used race as a

proxy for partisan affiliation in violation of the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, one of three liberals who sounded sympathetic to the challengers, noted that the old and new districts kept the Democratic-leaning Black voting age population at 17%, low enough to keep electing a Republican representative.

“How do you explain the consistency? I mean, my understanding is that thousands of people were moved in and out of this district, and yet that line, the line concerning the amount of, you know, Black voter -- adult voter participation remained the same,” Jackson said.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, on the other hand, seemed to have little trouble with the state’s explanations for how the map ended up as it did. Kavanaugh asked what the court should do if it

finds the state relied on solid political, rather than racial, data to draw the district.

“If that data is good, should we reverse?” he asked.

Kavanaugh and Roberts split with the other conservatives and joined the liberal justices when the Supreme Court in June said Alabama diluted Black voters’ political power.

Democrats seem likely to gain a seat in Alabama following a court-ordered redistricting that will give Alabama two congressional districts where Black voters comprise a substantial portion of the electorate. A similar pending Louisiana case could lead to a second mostly Black district there, too.

In South Carolina, Black voters wouldn’t be as numerous in a redrawn district. But combined with a substantial set of Democratic-leaning white voters, Democrats could be competitive

in the reconfigured district.

Civil rights groups challenged the map in federal court and won a ruling from a unanimous three-judge panel in January.

Leah Aden, arguing in defense of the lower-court ruling, told the justices that “four of the five heaviest Black precincts” were moved out of Mace’s district, while a much lower percentage of majority-white voting precincts were moved.

The lower court put its order on hold to allow the state to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said in January that “we don’t need to draw anything until five members of the Supreme Court say we have to.”

Both sides want a decision by Jan. 1 so that the state can use a congressional map in the 2024 elections that complies with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

7

obituaries

Joyce Sanders Wheless

January 23, 1939 — October 13, 2023 Joyce Sanders Wheless, 84 of Randleman passed away Friday, October 13, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Joyce was born January 23, 1939, in Iredell County, North Carolina to Lee and Mildred Cagle Sanders. She was a 1957 graduate of Frank L. Ashley High School in Gastonia, North Carolina. Joyce was formerly employed as an X-ray Technician for Randolph Hospital and then for Asheboro Orthopedics for 15 years. Joyce was known as everybody’s mom. She was very loving and welcoming. All holidays were everything they were supposed to be, Immaculate housekeeper. She loved to be a doctor or nurse and help anyone in the family who needed it. She was the most concerned grandparent ever and was always there when you needed her. She loved to color and do floral arranging as well as interior decorating.

Joyce was married to William “Bill" Wheless for 27 years until his untimely death in 1987. She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband Bill and two sons Steven and Mark and a sister Doris Beaty.

Left to cherish her memory is her daughter: Janet Wheless Adams and husband John of Randleman. 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Sandra Latham Lucas

July 1, 1952 — October 11, 2023 Sandra Latham Lucas, age 71, of Asheboro passed away on October 11, 2023 at Randolph Hospital.

Mrs. Lucas was born in Randolph County on July 1, 1952 to Wilson and Shaye Luther Latham. She was employed in the furniture industry for over 20 years.

In addition to her parents, Sandra was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Brown Lucas, Sr. Sandra loved to play music and was a talented banjo and fiddle player. She enjoyed cooking for people and everyone loved coming over to eat. Family was very important to Sandra and she loved her grandchildren dearly.

She is survived by her children, Janet Ellis (Irwin) of Randleman, Jerry Brown "J.B." Lucas, Jr. of Asheboro, and Julie Foust (Isaac Harris) of Asheboro; grandchildren, Simon Lucas (Morgan), John Brown (Kendra), Jonathan VaunLuc (Taylor), Shay Lucas (Josh Dillon), Allison Lucas (Scott Carpenter), Caleb Brown, Aliyah Ellis, Selah Foust, and Savannah Lucas; great grandchildren, Anna, Jesse, Baylee, Evolet, Liam, Ellie, and Scarlett; and her pets, Salem and Venus.

May 25, 1950 — October 7, 2023 Darlene Kay Alleman Gantt, age 73, of Asheboro went to be with the Lord on October 7, 2023.

Mrs. Gantt was born in Mechanicsburg, PA on May 25, 1950 to Russell and Viney Varner Alleman. In addition to her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, David "Butch" Gantt, Jr. and sister-in-law, Barbara Deppen.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Gantt; son, Benjamin Gantt (Jill); daughters, Lorrie Gantt and Emily Janes (Cameron); grandchildren, Abigail Gantt, William Gantt, and Katherine Gantt; brothers, Jack Alleman (Mary), Russell Alleman, Jr. (Barbara), and Kenneth Alleman (Carol); sisters-in-law, Deanna Parrish, Luann Fritz (Bob), and Maria Christini (Marty); brother-in-law, David Deppen; and several nieces and nephews.

October 18, 1943 — October 11, 2023 Lois Wood Richardson, age 79, of Asheboro passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at her home.

Lois was born on October 18, 1943 to Garfield and Lucille Wood. She was a member of Asheboro Friends Meeting and often helped make chicken pies for fund raisers. One of Lois' great joys was traveling with her late husband, Dan. During their travels, they visited 48 of the 50 states together. She loved life, working in the yard with her flowers, laughter and fellowship with friends and family. She enjoyed her weekly Rook game with friends, lovingly dubbed "The Rookies". Some of her last words were that she "loved everyone", and truly she did.

In addition to her parents, Lois was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dan Richardson and brother, Clayton Wood.

She is survived by her daughters, Amy Fogleman (Al), Teresa Holston (Wayne); son, Tim Richardson (fiancée Judy); grandchildren, Brandi Nicole Hunley, Terri Lynn Hunley (fiancé Billy Wright) and Ava Grace Fogleman; daughter by choice, Kesha Andrews (Ben); brother, Chester Wood (Sandy); special friend, R. P. Routh and many other beloved family members and friends.

JB Garland, Sr

December 21, 1933 — October 10, 2023 JB Garland, Sr., 89, passed away October 10, 2023 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Red Hill, NC on December 21, 1933 to George Garland and Bertha Tipton Garland.

JB was a loving and devoted family man and provider.

Working for 34 years as an oiler with the Lorillard Tobacco Company. He was a Christian man who enjoyed woodworking and gardening.

JB is survived by his sons, Mark Garland (Tracie) of Sophia and Baxter Garland (Vicky) of Julian; four grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild. In addition to his parents, JB is preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Alderman Garland; five brothers; and three sisters.

Janette Browder

September 28, 1933 - October 14, 2023

James Edward Gardner, Jr.

Darlene Kay Alleman Gantt

Lois Wood Richardson

September 11, 1942 - October 7, 2023 James Edward Gardner, Jr., surrounded by family, passed away peacefully at the age of 81. Jim was born and raised in Suffolk, VA, and was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Gardner, his mother Elizabeth Barnes Gardner, and his sister, Camilla Carroll Levien.

He entered the US Army after graduation and served in the Vietnam War. While he was stationed at Fort Lee in Petersburg, VA, he met his forever partner, Barbara Wrenn, who was a teacher at Petersburg High School. They married on June 10th, 1967, and celebrated their 56th anniversary this year.

Jim was most proud whenever he could talk about his large family. He had four children, and was ‘Granddaddy’ to nine grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Barbara, son Jeff and his wife Robin, and grandsons Drew & Brad; son Mike and his wife Leah, and grandchildren Taylor and Mary Margaret; son Greg and his wife Kelly, and grandsons Wrenn and Blake; and daughter Julie and her husband Chad, and grandchildren Ellie, Brooke, and Grant. He was at his happiest when all 19 were under one roof.

Patty Flinchum

November 16, 1954 - October 10, 2023 Patty Jean Newsome Flinchum, 68, of Asheboro, died Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at Randolph Health in Asheboro.

Born November 16, 1954, in Forsyth Co., NC, Mrs. Flinchum was the daughter of the late William Floyd and Anna Bella Douglas Newsome.

She had worked as a sewer for Klaussner Furniture. She enjoyed camping, shopping and spending time with her family.

Mrs. Flinchum was blessed with four children and one adopted daughter.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Flinchum was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Flinchum; brother, Roger Newsome, and granddaughter, Kristina Faith Dameron.

Mrs. Flinchum is survived by her children, Susan Oliver, Rev. David Casey Motley (Desiree), Regina Kepley (Timothy), Scott Casey; adopted daughter, Ann Williams (Tony); sisters, Libby Hughes, Deborah Jones, Annette Robinette; brothers, James Newsome, Ricky Newsome; her pride and joy were her two grandsons, Michael D., Little Michael; additional grandchildren, Dustin, Robert, Kathleena, Catherine, Charlotte, Jacob; great grandchildren, Michael Jr., and Levi.

Janette Brinkley Browder, 90, of Asheboro, passed away, Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Born in Surry County, on September 28, 1933, Janette was the daughter of the late Roy and Alpha Hiatt Brinkley.

She was a good woman, good mother, and a good wife.

Janette was a hard worker, and she had a green thumb with her beautiful garden. She loved walking, loved flowers, and she prayed and read her Bible daily.

Janette set a good example for her whole family, loving to cook for them and eat with them.

She was an excellent care giver and took care of others. Janette watched Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and $10,000 Pyramid every night. She loved traveling to Mt. Airy and visiting the Sock Store.

In addition to her parents, Janette was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbern "Bill" Browder; daughter, Brenda Gay Rich; son-in-law, Jimmy Winningham; sisters, Genevieve Boles, Dorine Langley; brothers, Hasten Brinkley and Richard Brinkley.

She is survived by her daughter, Shelia Winningham Allison (Mike) of Asheboro; grandchildren, Brian Yow (Laurie), Jeffrey Winningham (Stephanie); Kaili Yow, Kiersten Yow, Kamryn Yow, Tessa Winningham, Whyatt Winningham, Brewster Loflin, Davis Loflin, Vincen Loflin, Miles Allison, Lea Allison; son-in-law, Eugene Rich (Jean); and several nieces and nephews; her special friends, Sarah Louise Sheffield; 4 legged companion, Jake; and her church friends.

Esther Evans Hopkins (Doby)

April 26, 1926 — October 10, 2023 In the words of the Apostle Paul, “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 2:21 Esther Lee Evans Hopkins (Doby) completed her earthly race early morning October 10, 2023 at the Randolph Hospice House. Born April 26, 1926 in Darlington, SC to Thomas Oliner Evans, Sr. and Edna Marie Smith Evans, she lived her ninety-seven plus years to the fullest. Growing up in a family that eventually numbered eleven siblings, she would say her life was happy, rewarding, and, at times, adventurous or even challenging. Throughout her life, she followed the object of her hope and love, Jesus Christ.

Esther wed William (Bill) R. Hopkins on October 4, 1947, and became mother to four daughters who survive her.

Being a pastor’s wife, mother, and, eventually, a teacher, became the joys of her life.

Bill died in January of 1996, and she found another companion Robert Doby who also predeceased her.

They enjoyed many happy adventures and a deep, satisfying companionship until his death in 2007.

Surviving to cherish her wonderful memories and a Christian example are daughters Patricia A. Mikowski of Florence, SC, Kaye H. Poole (Melvin) of Oakboro, NC, Doreen H. Reynolds (Don) of Reidsville, NC, and Terri H. Prestwood (Mike) of Badin, NC. Eight of nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren also survive. Numbers of nieces, nephews, and friends also will remember Esther with love.

Jimmie Joe Garner

April 5, 1940 — October 8, 2023 Jimmie Joe Garner, age 83, of Randleman, NC passed away peacefully on the morning of October 8, 2023.

He is survived by his three children, Sterling Garner, Chris (Amber) Garner, Danielle (Gary) Garrett, seven grandchildren, Justin Beverly, Gary Garrett Jr, Lindsey, Darian, and Alexandria Garrett, Christopher Garner II and Kylie Misenhiemer, one brother Benny Ray Garner, a host of nieces and nephews and countless friends.

Jimmie Joe was born to the late Avery and Grace Garner of Asheboro, NC where he graduated from Central High School. He later moved to Randleman where he settled with his late wife, Margine Allen Garner. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing golf, bowling and loved to dance.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Report: Abortion declined significantly in North Carolina in first month after new restrictions The Associated Press RALEIGH — North Carolina appears to have had a significant decline in abortions performed in the first month after new restrictions approved by state legislators took effect, according to estimates released Wednesday by a research group.

The findings by the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion policies, are based on data collected from a sample of abortion providers in the state as part of its new effort by the group to calculate monthly trends in abortions — both surgical and medication — nationwide.

A new law approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly over the veto of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper that started July 1 banned nearly all abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with additional exceptions for rape and incest and for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies.

Before July 1, North Carolina had a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks.

The data showed an estimated 2,920 abortions were provided in July in North Carolina within the state’s formal health care system, compared with an estimated 4,230 in June, or a 31% decline, according to Guttmacher’s Monthly Abortion Provision Study. It found the state

AP PHOTO

Protesters on both sides of the issue hold signs as North Carolina House members debate, Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Raleigh. had by far the largest decline nationwide, which saw an estimated 7% month-over-month reduction.

The group’s policy experts contend that while the new 12week near-ban is having an effect on discouraging abortion, a new in-person requirement to receive state-mandated counseling may be more influential.

That requires a woman seeking an abortion to visit a provider to comply with the state’s previously approved 72-hour waiting period, rather than check in with a

phone call.

Traveling twice to a provider, who could be hours away, may be too onerous for some women, leading some to obtain abortion pills on their own by mail or to carry their pregnancy to term, according to the Institute.

The July estimate “likely represents both North Carolinians and out-of-state patients who are no longer able to access vital reproductive health care due to arbitrary gestational bans and medically unnecessary barriers,” lsaac Maddow-Zimet, who leads

Guttmacher’s new study project, said in a news release.

The group’s analysis cautioned that North Carolina’s marked decline could in part reflect seasonal variations in when pregnancies occur and that trends may change in the months ahead as patients and providers adapt to the new law.

The report, which collects data back to January, showed North Carolina’s abortion totals largely steady for the first six months of the year.

The group said its new data showed no increases in abortions provided in South Carolina, Virginia, the District of Columbia or Maryland, which could have contributed to North Carolina’s decline in July if they occurred.

The conservative North Carolina Values Coalition, which supports pro-life policies, said it was encouraged by the reduction in abortions as the law was carried out. The new law also included funds to increase contraceptive services, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and provide paid maternity leave for state employees and teachers.

“It is great news that the lives of more innocent unborn children are being saved and that the new law appears to be working to keep North Carolina from being a destination for abortion,” Executive Director Tami

Republican Jeff Landry wins the Louisiana governor’s race, reclaims office for GOP The Associated Press BATON ROUGE, La. — Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, has won the Louisiana governor’s race, holding off a crowded field of candidates.

The win is a major victory for the GOP as they reclaim the governor’s mansion for the first time in eight years. Landry will replace current Gov. John Bel Edwards, who was unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits. Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the Deep South.

“Today’s election says that our state is united,” Landry said during his victory speech Saturday night. “It’s a wake up call and it’s a message that everyone should hear loud and clear, that we the people in this state are going to expect more out of our government from here on out.”

By garnering more than half of the votes, Landry avoided an expected runoff under the state’s “jungle primary” system. The last time there wasn’t a gubernatorial runoff in Louisiana was in 2011 and 2007, when Bobby Jin-

dal, a Republican, won the state’s top position.

The governor-elect, who celebrated with supporters during a watch party in Broussard, Louisiana, described the election as “historic.”

Landry, 52, has raised the profile of attorney general since taking office in 2016. He has used his office to champion conservative policy positions. More recently, Landry has been in the spotlight over his involvement and staunch support of Louisiana laws that have drawn much debate, including banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youths, the state’s near-total abortion ban that doesn’t have exceptions for cases of rape and incest, and a law restricting youths’ access to “sexually explicit material” in libraries, which opponents fear will target LGBTQ+ books.

Landry has repeatedly clashed with Edwards over matters in the state, including LGBTQ rights, state finances and the death penalty. However the Republican has also repeatedly put Louisiana in national fights, including

over President Joe Biden’s policies that limit oil and gas production and COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Landry spent two years on Capitol Hill, beginning in 2011, where he represented Louisiana’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District. Prior to his political career, Landry served 11 years in the Louisiana Army National Guard, was a local police officer, sheriff’s deputy and attorney.

During the gubernatorial election season, Landry had long been considered the early frontrunner, winning the endorsement of high profile Republicans — Trump and U.S. Rep Steve Scalise — and a controversial early endorsement from the state GOP. In addition, Landry has enjoyed a sizable fundraising advantage over the rest of the field throughout the race.

Landry has made clear that one of his top priorities as governor would be addressing crime in urban areas. The Republican has pushed a tough-on-crime rhetoric, calling for more “transparency” in the justice system and continuing to support cap-

ital punishment. Louisiana has the nation’s second-highest murder rate per capita.

Along the campaign trail, Landry faced political attacks from opponents on social media and in interviews, calling him a bully and making accusations of backroom deals to gain support. He also faced scrutiny for skipping all but one of the major-televised debates.

Among other gubernatorial candidates on the ballot were GOP state Sen. Sharon Hewitt; Hunter Lundy, a Lake Charlesbased attorney running as an independent; Republican state Treasurer John Schroder; Stephen Waguespack, the Republican former head of a powerful business group and former senior aide to then-Gov. Jindal; and Shawn Wilson, the former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and sole major Democratic candidate.

Wilson, who was the runner-up, said during his concession speech that he had called Landry to congratulate him on his victory. The Democrat said

Fitzgerald said in a separate news release.

After the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v.

Wade, North Carolina had become a refuge for residents in nearby states like Georgia, Tennessee and West Virginia that severely restricted or banned abortions. Guttmacher estimated abortions in North Carolina had increased 55% during the first half of 2023 compared with half of the total for 2020 across all months.

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and a doctor sued in June over provisions in the new law. A federal judge has blocked two such portions, including a requirement that abortions performed after 12 weeks occur in a hospital.

For the report, Guttmacher officials said that abortions are counted as having occurred when a patient had a surgical abortion — also called a procedural abortion — or abortion pills were dispensed.

The group said it doesn’t release specific numbers of facilities sampled to protect confidentiality. But Guttmacher oversampled the number of facilities — clinics, hospitals or doctor’s offices among them — in North Carolina to better calculate the effect of the new restrictions, according to a spokesperson.

during their phone call, he asked the governor-elect to keep Medicaid expansion, increase teacher pay and “educate our children the way they need to be educated.”

“The citizens of Louisiana spoke, or didn’t speak, and made a decision,” Wilson said.

Also on Saturday’s ballot were five other statewide contests and four ballot measures.

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser won reelection Saturday night, but other races won’t be decided until November.

One closely watched race is for attorney general, which holds the highest legal authority in the state’s executive branch. Liz Baker Murrill, a Republican who currently works at the Attorney General’s Office and Lindsey Cheek, a Democrat and trial attorney, have advanced to a November runoff.

Also advancing to a runoff in the state treasurer race is John Fleming, Republican, and Dustin Granger, Democrat.

In the secretary of state race, First Assistant Secretary of State Nancy Landry, a Republican, and Gwen Collins-Greenup, a Democrat and attorney, will advance to a runoff. The winner in November will have the task of replacing Louisiana’s outdated voting machines, which do not produce the paper ballots critical to ensuring accurate election results.

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 34 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Coming in for a landing

The All Veterans parachute team lands at midfield prior to Hoke County’s homecoming game. The Bucks knocked off Union Pines to take the Turkey Bowl trophy.

WHAT’S HAPPENING North Carolina issues urgent call for volunteer firefighters A crucial recruitment campaign is currently underway across North Carolina, aiming to tackle the severe shortage of volunteer firefighters throughout the state, with a special emphasis on departments and associations in local areas.

The recruitment initiative coincides with Fire Prevention Month in October, particularly Fire Prevention Week from Oct. 8-14. The campaign’s focus this year is on cooking safety, the cause of 51% of all home fires. Fire departments are dedicated to educating their communities about the importance of fire safety and prevention.

There is an urgent need for new recruits as North Carolina has seen a decrease of 4,963 volunteer firefighters since 2020. Considering that over 80% of all North Carolina firefighters are volunteers, the state is in dire need of more individuals willing to take up these roles.

In-person early voting begins Thursday The one-stop early voting period for Nov. 7 elections across North Carolina begins Thursday, Oct. 19. Voters must show identification in this year’s elections.

On the ballot in Hoke County this year are three seats on the Raeford City Council.

Hoke County’s early inperson voting location is at the Board of Elections office at 227 N. Main St. in Raeford.

One-stop, in-person early voting ends for November municipal elections on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Parent committee fails to garner school board approval Increased substitute pay approved

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Schools Board of Education discussed a range of policy items at its meeting Tuesday, Oct. 10.

Interim Superintendent Rodney Shotwell gave an update on the impact of signing bonuses previously approved for the 2023-24 school year.

“How did those new signon bonuses help us in terms of the number of people that we have at each school?” Shotwell asked. “So far, about 24 individuals have been able to receive the sign-on bonus and we’ve got some more coming. But when you think about it, 24 over 14 schools, I know that the intent of

the organization was to get more people to come in over here as a result of the signing bonus.”

He added, “We’re also doing the bonuses a little bit differently. If a person receives a $7,500 sign-on bonus, they get $2,500 upfront and then the remaining amount will be split up over the course of three years. This is another way to ensure that the person has a little bit of longevity.”

The board approved several new policies related to the Parent’s Bill of Rights Legislation, as recommended by the North Carolina School Board Association. It tabled Policy 3210 - Parental Inspection of and Objection to Instructional Materials for further review.

The board also approved the NCSBA Hosting Platform for the hosting district policies.

“There is a one-time fee of $1,250 and an annual subscription of $3,650, however, it is

prorated,” Shotwell said. “It’s basically $304 a month and it’s the best $304 a month you’ll spend for not only the public but our teachers, principals and staff to be able to access and find applicable policies.”

In addition, the board approved school improvement plans for low-performing schools and pay raises for substitute teachers.

“Our need for substitute teachers has grown, not only here in Hoke County but everywhere around us,” Shotwell said.

Pay for non-certified substitutes will rise from $98 to $117 per day, and certified substitute pay will go from $135 to $150 a day.

Finally, a resolution for a proposed Ad Hoc Parent Committee, which would serve as an advisory board to the Board of Education, failed to move forward.

“This committee will be something for the board, not for the purpose of running individually but for all the board members to include more specifically the staff, administration and most importantly the parents and students,” said board member Ruben Castellon, who had drafted the resolution.

Board member Rosa McAllister-McRae, who had opposed the committee in prior meetings, tried to table the item for a full year, but her motion also failed to meet the voting threshold.

“The motions on the floor are dead,” McAllister-McRae said.

“We just have to move on.”

Castellon can bring the item back in a future meeting and said he plans to reach out to every board member to work toward an agreeable resolution.

The Hoke County Schools Board of Education will next meet Nov. 14.

Fiber-to-the-home broadband launches in Hoke County 265 customers covered at launch, part of $5B investment in rural broadband

By Jordan Golson North State Journal Spectrum announced the launch of its advanced fiber-tothe-home gigabit broadband in Hoke County. The initial rollout covers 265 homes and small businesses and is part of Spectrum’s $5 billion investment in rural broadband through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF).

The gigabit broadband ser-

vice offers symmetrical 1 gigabit connections, meaning it provides equal upload and download speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second. This highspeed connection allows for seamless streaming, gaming, and other online activities.

“Spectrum is bringing gigabit broadband to unserved communities across America through RDOF,” said Tim Williams, Vice President of Construction at Spectrum. “Our investment is making it possible to deliver the high-value broadband, mobile, TV and voice services now available in Hoke County.”

“Many Rural communi-

ties often fall behind when it comes to internet availability, and communities in my district have experienced this firsthand,” said state Rep. Garland Pierce. “Spectrum’s partnership and broadband expansion through RDOF will help close the digital divide once and for all for many of our unserved residents. Now business, school and residents will be able to fill the connectivity gap that has been missing for so long.”

Spectrum’s RDOF-related investment, which includes $1 billion won in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) RDOF auction, aims to provide broadband ac-

cess to approximately 1 million customer locations across 24 states in the coming years. The initial rollout in Hoke County is just the beginning, with more homes and businesses expected to be covered in the future.

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Miniature ‘Star Wars’ X-wing gets over $3 million at auction of Hollywood model-maker’s collection The Associated Press DALLAS — A miniature X-wing Starfighter used in a “Star Wars” film sold for over $3 million during an auction over the weekend of items both collected and created by longtime Hollywood model-maker Greg Jein.

The collection amassed by Jein, who died last year at the age of 76, brought in about $13.6 million during an event at Heritage Auctions in Dallas. The auction house said that everyone from model-makers to collectors and science-fiction fans attended, making the event its best-attended in years.

Joe Maddalena, Heritage’s executive vice president and a longtime friend of Jein’s, said in a news release Monday that the auction was “a profound testament to my friend as both a visual-effects master and one of the great collectors.”

Jein not only had an Oscar and Emmy-nominated career making miniature models for nearly half a century, but he also spent a lifetime collecting costumes, props, scripts, artwork, photographs and models from the shows he loved.

The Red Leader X-wing Starfighter that was used in the 1977 film “Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope” sold for about $3.1 million after a bidding duel between two collectors, the auction house said. Also going for an eye-popping amount was a “Star Wars” Stormtrooper costume that sold for $645,000.

A rare surviving spacesuit from Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey” sold for $447,000.

Jein was a fan of “ Star Trek “ before he worked on the franchise — and some of the items that he collected were popular at the auction. A filming model of the “SS Botany Bay” vessel from “Star Trek: The Original Series” from the 1960s went for $200,000 while prop devices from that series like a hero phaser went for $187,500 and a tricorder garnered $175,000.

Jein, who grew up in Los Angeles, was still early in his career when he led the team that created the mothership for Steven Spielberg’s 1977 film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The model that appears gigantic in the movie is just over 5 feet (1.5 meters) long and now part of the collection at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. A small preliminary model, which is about 5 inches (12 centimeters) long, brought in $55,000 at the auction.

Lou Zutavern, Jein’s longtime friend and shop supervisor, said that he and Jein always had “a ball” working together. He said Jein was a great friend, and recalled the time he brought a box filled with model kits to entertain Zutavern after he had a knee surgery.

Zutavern said his friend had a love of Hollywood history, and a passion for seeking out items for his collection.

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

3

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

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

Authoritarian thugs continue their persecution of Jack Phillips

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

I’VE BEEN WRITING ABOUT Denver-area baker Jack Phillips for over a decade now. It’s clear to me he’s going to be badgered into the grave by authoritarians intent on punishing him for thought crimes. From the first time his name appeared in the news until this day, the media have misled the public about him, about the case and about the law.

The latest chapter in Phillips’ Kafkaesque saga involves a transgender lawyer named Autumn Scardina, who demanded Phillips create a pink cake with blue frosting to help celebrate a gender transition. As expected, Phillips, who’d already spent years fighting government coercion, refused to participate.

The Colorado Civil Rights Commission agreed that Scardina had been discriminated against as a transgender person. Then, the dishonorable A. Bruce Jones of the 2nd Judicial District upheld the commission’s flagrant attack on free expression. Now, the Colorado Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case.

The entire case is built on ludicrous contortions of logic and law. The Colorado Court of Appeals, for instance, ruled in favor of Scardina, contending that the colors pink and blue aren’t really speech because, in and of themselves, they aren’t expressive of anything. The message, says the court, is “generated by the observer.”

Yes. Because Phillips isn’t a complete idiot, he understands that context matters. The color white has no inherent meaning, either. If a known Klansman

asks a tailor to fit him for some white sheets, it definitely does.

Then again, if you believe Scardina just happened to approach the most famous Christian baker in the country to create a “transition” cake the same day the Supreme Court announced it would hear the Masterpiece case in 2017, you’re certainly an idiot. The entire Scardina episode, including the configuration of the cake — using colors but no words — was calibrated to set Phillips up.

In the initial complaint to the Civil Rights Commission, Scardina claimed to be “stunned” by Phillip’s rejection. It should be noted, because it isn’t in any media coverage, that Phillips’ lawyers had very good reason to suspect Scardina, whose name appeared on a caller ID, first requested “an image of Satan smoking marijuana.” Later, an email was sent to the shop requesting “a three-tiered white cake” with a “large figure of Satan, licking a (nine-inch) black Dildo ... that can be turned on before we unveil the cake.”

Then again, Scardina admitted it was a setup. As the Associated Press reported last year, according to the activist’s lawyer, “She called Phillips’ Masterpiece Cakeshop to place the order after hearing about the court’s announcement because she wanted to find out if he really meant it ... It was more of calling someone’s bluff.”

There was no bluff to call. Phillips isn’t going to create cakes to celebrate gay weddings or gender transitions or the grand openings of strip clubs or bawdy bachelor parties or for a ‘happy divorce!’ or any other event that undermines his

faith. And even if he was the biggest hypocrite in all of Christendom — which he most certainly isn’t — it wouldn’t change anything. Americans don’t have to justify their free expression to anyone.

Scardina claims the lawsuit was intended to “challenge the veracity” of Phillips’ claim that he would serve LGBTQ customers. This is the central lie of the case. Phillips never once refused to sell a gay couple or a transgender person or anyone else anything in his store. But Phillips isn’t Scardina’s servant, and the government has no right to compel him to endorse or participate in any lifestyle.

Speaking of which, the media keeps contending that Phillips is looking for a religious “carve out” in antidiscrimination law — or something along those lines. No such thing exists.

It is unclear if the people who write those words are unfamiliar with the First Amendment or just instinctively dismiss it, but religious liberty and free expression are explicitly protected by law.

Anything that infringes on those rights is the “carve out,” not the other way around.

If “anti-discrimination” laws dictate that the government can compel Americans to express ideas they disagree with, as Colorado does, then anti-discrimination laws need to be overturned, tout de suite.

At this point, the best-case scenario is for Phillips’ case to reach SCOTUS, so the court can either repair the Masterpiece decision — which basically provided the state and activists with a guidebook on bullying people of faith (basically, don’t show public animosity while doing it) — or shelve the First Amendment.

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter. The chain is unbroken.

And for two millennia, since the destruction of the last Jewish dynasty in the holy land of Israel, those Jew-haters were ascendant.

No longer. That is the promise of the State of Israel.

Never again.

The Jews will not stand by and be murdered. They will not leave their Biblical homeland. They will not surrender. They will be strong and courageous, as Joshua said three thousand years ago.

Israel is indispensable. Its presence is a miracle, its strength a gift.

Thank God for the State of Israel.

There are those who say that antiZionism is not antisemitism. Tell that to the dead women and children in Sderot.

Tell that to Hamas, who proclaim in their charter: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

There are those who say that the Israeli-Arab conflict is a “cycle of violence.” Only the morally blind and obtuse could ever say such a thing.

Look at the videos. Look at the pictures.

That is what evil looks like.

LOOK. Look, because this is what moral equivalence brings. Rape of women.

Kidnapping of children. Murder of

hundreds of innocents, including full families.

For decades, we’ve been told that to look evil in its face was somehow unsophisticated. That to pretend evil away was an act of intellectual virtue.

That to cater to evil, to concede to evil, was the pathway toward a better world.

It was all a damned lie.

LOOK. There are those who proclaim the complexity of it all. Those people are fools. What’s worse, they are enablers of evil, fellow travelers, justifiers of the worst human rights violations on the planet, from targeting civilians to hiding behind them.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. This was the worst week for Jews since the Holocaust.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. Look it in the face. I know that you will. I know you will because I am a Jew, and because I am an American.

Americans love justice. Americans love good. Americans resonate to the book of Psalms, that says, “Hate evil, those who love the Lord.”

Hate evil. And fight it. Americans always have, and they always will.

I know we will.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

I am a Jew

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter.

I AM A JEW. Those have been the words of the Jewish people for three millennia.

Those were the words of the men, women and children of Masada.

Those were the words of the followers of Bar Kochba.

Those were the words of Jews in Granada in 1066 and the Rhineland in 1096 and Khmelnytsky from 16481657 and Kishinev in 1903, in Hebron in 1929.

Those were the words of Jews in Auschwitz and Treblinka.

Those were the words of Daniel Pearl.

Those are my words, too.

They are the words of my parents, my wife, my children.

Over the weekend, my people were attacked. Murdered. Mutilated. Our women raped. Our children kidnapped.

This has happened millions of times before, to millions of Jews. Jew-hatred exists because evil exists. Because there are people who have, for all of human history, hated the Jews and sought to strike at them while they are weak. Who have blamed the Jews for their own problems, who have crafted complex conspiracy theories about the supposed power of the Jews, who have sought to destroy the Jews.

From Pharoah to Haman. From Hitler to Hamas.

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

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

4 SIDELINE REPORT

SPORTS

MLB

Cardinals staff shaken after armed robbery at Dominican Republic complex Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Authorities are seeking at least five people in an armed robbery of the St. Louis Cardinals complex in the Dominican Republic on Friday.

Dominican Republic police spokesman Diego Pesqueira told The Associated Press that the suspects bound and gagged a security guard and stole watches, rings, necklaces and other items from athletes and personnel. Pesqueira said the suspects used the guard’s shoelaces to tie his wrists and ankles together. No one was injured, and no shots were fired, he said. A statement from the Cardinals said baseball equipment was also stolen.

Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak says players and staff at the complex were shaken.

NFL

49ers’ Kittle fined $13K-plus for profane T-shirt Santa Clara, Calif.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was fined more than $13,000 by the NFL for wearing a profane T-shirt about the Dallas Cowboys.

Kittle wore a T-shirt under his uniform last week that said “F Dallas,” with the rest of the first word hidden by white tape. He exposed it to the national television audience after a touchdown run in the fourth quarter by Jordan Mason. The league announced that Kittle was fined $13,659 for the infraction.

AUTO RACING

Paralyzed driver Wickens wins IMSA class title Braselton, Georgia Robert Wickens, paralyzed from the waist down in an IndyCar crash five years ago, won an IMSA class title at Road Atlanta on Friday.

Wickens uses a car equipped with hand controls for paralyzed drivers. He and co-driver Harry Gottsacker finished fourth in the Fox Factory 120 to claim the title.

The Bryan Herta Autosports entry needed to finish in eighth to clinch the championship.

Wickens said he felt like he proved he could return last year and believes this season’s run to the title was more streamlined and professional.

AP PHOTO

Kyle Larson (5) finishes ahead of Christopher Bell (20) and Zane Smith (38) to win Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at Las Vegas.

Larson earns spot in title race with victory at Las Vegas The 2021 champion clinched a spot in the winner-take-all race at Phoenix on Nov. 5 The Associated Press LAS VEGAS — Kyle Larson used a spectacular midrace save, got a lightning fast final pit stop from his Hendrick Motorsports crew, then held off Christopher Bell at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway finish line to become the first driver locked into the Cup Series’ championship finale.

The 2021 Cup champion earned the first of four spots in the Nov. 5 title-deciding finale with his win in Sunday’s opening race of the round of eight of the playoffs.

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races,” said Larson.

Larson’s fourth win of the season was the most important: Hendrick Motorsports could

theoretically coast through the next two weeks and focus mostly on preparing for the finale at Phoenix Raceway. Joey Logano won Las Vegas last year and parlayed the two weeks of prep time into a championship-clinching win at Phoenix.

There won’t be any rest for the No. 5 team, though.

“If we just say, ‘Hey, we’re going to cruise for the next two weeks,’ then you are not operating with the edge that I think you’re going to need to win it in Phoenix,” said crew chief Cliff Daniels. “There’s two more races to win, and the way I see this now is that we’re in the position, we get to play those races to win.”

Larson led 133 laps and beat Bell by 0.082 seconds.

He needed a pretty remarkable save in the second stage when his Chevy wiggled and Larson somehow escaped with only denting the rear corner of the car into the wall. It was a save that Daniels believes only

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races.”

Kyle Larson Larson could pull off.

“I just tried to take a deep breath and really forget about that as quickly as possible and get refocused,” Larson said.

It kept him in contention and Larson claimed the lead on pit road when his crew had the fastest stop following a caution with 57 laps remaining. Bell had control of the race at that point, but Larson was first off pit road.

Bell, who started on the pole in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, was third after the pit stop.

Passing seemed particularly difficult Sunday at Las Vegas, and Bell was sort of stuck following Larson for the rest of the race.

But he made a run at Larson

over the final handful of laps, closing the gap each time by the flag stand. As they closed in on the checkered flag, Bell gave it Hoke Co one furious push inside of Lar- Union Pi son but couldn’t beat him to the line.

“I don’t know what else I could have done,” a dejected Bell said. “I feel like that was my moment. That was my moment to make the final four and didn’t capture it. It would have been nice to lock in.”

Larson praised Bell, his longtime sprint car rival, for racing him cleanly to the finish line.

“I could see him coming in my mirror, for sure,” Larson said of Bell’s closing rate. “Thankfully, Christopher always races extremely clean. Could have got crazier than it did coming to the start/finish line. Thank you to him for racing with respect there.”

Kyle Busch, a Las Vegas native, finished third in a Chevrolet. He was followed by Brad Keselowski in a Ford and Ross Chastain in a Chevrolet. All three were eliminated from the playoffs last Sunday at Charlotte.

The Cup Series goes to Homestead-Miami Speedway next Sunday for the middle race in the round of eight. Larson is the defending race winner.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Hoke County wins Turkey Bowl trophy in homecoming game North State Journal Hoke County snapped a fourgame losing streak with a 2821 win over Union Pines in Friday’s homecoming game. The win earned the Bucks the Turkey Bowl trophy and a win over the Vikings for the third straight year.

Brandon Saunders led the Bucks’ offense, throwing for three touchdowns on a 10for22, 185-yard passing night.

Saunders completed touchdown passes to Joey Castaneda, Tyceri Vick and Tre’jan

Williams to help build an early lead. Williams also added an interception on defense, which he returned 60 yards.

The Bucks also got a boost from the ground game, with Jairo Ortiz carrying 20 times for 100 yards and a touchdown.

Union Pines was led on offense by Hayne Tobias, who caught four passes for 103 yards and two touchdowns as well as a two-point conversion.

Hoke County improved to 3-6 on the season and won its first conference game against four losses. The Bucks close out

the regular season on the road, Friday, with a game against Pinecrest. The Patriots are 8-0, 4-0 in conference.

Hoke has lost to Pinecrest each of the last three years and haven’t won at Pinecrest since 2005.

Union Pines lost its third straight game to fall to 2-6 on the year, 1-3 in the Sandhills Conference. They host Southern Lee on Friday in the first of back-to-back home games to close out the regular season.

The Vikings have won the last four over Southern Lee.

5

TRE’JAN WILLIAMS

Tre’jan Williams

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hoke County, football

HAL NUNN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hoke County holds the Turkey Bowl Trophy high as the team celebrates a homecoming win over Union Pines, 28-21.

Tre’jan Williams is a senior wide receiver and defensive back for the Hoke County football team.

The Bucks snapped a five-game losing streak with a 28-21 win over Union Pines on Friday, and Williams contributed on both sides of the ball. He caught two passes for 49 yards and a touchdown on offense, while returning an interception 60 yards on defense.

For the season, Williams leads Hoke County in receiving yards and interceptions and is tied for the team lead in total touchdowns and fumble recoveries.

Reyna plays under Berhalter in USMNT’s loss to Germany The American coach and player have been fueding

Germany’s Jamal Musiala, left, and the United States’ Gio Reyna, right, battle for the ball during Saturday’s international friendly in East Hartford, Connecticut.

The Associated Press EAST HARTFORD, Conn.

— Gio Reyna was noticeable with dyed blond hair in his first game back with Gregg Berhalter following the eruption of their family feud at last year’s World Cup. Germany’s offense in its first game under Julian Nagelsmann and a porous U.S. defense also stood out.

Niclas Füllkrug and Jamal Musiala scored three minutes apart early in the second half, and Germany rallied to beat the United States 3-1 in a rainy exhibition Saturday.

Christian Pulisic put the 11th-ranked U.S. ahead in the 27th minute, and İlkay Gündogan tied the score in the 39th.

Füllkrug got the go-ahead goal in the 58th minute, and Musiala padded the margin in the 61st for No. 15 Germany.

“On the three goals, it was a loss of connection in the backline and in the midfield — just overall organization on those three plays let us down a little bit,” Berhalter said. “Games against opponents like this can’t be that open.”

AP PHOTO

Reyna played the first half in his first start since fracturing his right leg in a CONCACAF Nations League match against Canada in June. The 20-yearold midfielder had been limited since the injury to a 27-minute substitute appearance for Dortmund in the Bundesliga on Oct.

7.

“He played a good game, showed his quality,” Berhalter said. “It was good to see and good to have him on the field.”

Berhalter limited Reyna to a pair of substitute appearances at the World Cup and said during a management confer-

ence after the tournament that he nearly sent a player home from Qatar for lack of effort during training, remarks clearly about Reyna.

Reyna’s parents, former U.S. captain Claudio Reyna and midfielder Danielle Egan, contacted the U.S. Soccer Federa-

tion about a three-decades-old domestic violence allegation involving Berhalter and the woman who later became his wife.

Berhalter was replaced by a pair of interim coaches and, after a law firm retained by the United States Soccer Federation determined Berhalter did not improperly withhold information when he was hired in 2018, he was rehired to resume coaching in September.

“Honestly, it’s like it never happened,” midfielder Weston McKennie said of Reyna.

“Whenever he came back in, it was just done and dusted.”

Germany had 60% possession and outshot the U.S. 19-6.

The Americans had not lost by two goals in a game in which they scored first since the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup final against Mexico.

“These are games we want to start finding ways to win,” Pulisic said.

Germany plays Mexico on Tuesday in Philadelphia, while the U.S. faces Ghana at Nashville, Tennessee.

“It’s normal that not everything today was brilliant,” Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said, “But that’s good because I love to work, so let’s work.”

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

6

Sen. Joe Manchin considers independent 2024 run, warns party system could be nation’s ‘downfall’ The Associated Press CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia has benefited from waiting to reveal where he stands as the swing vote in a chamber closely divided between Democrats and Republicans.

He’s taken the same approach when it comes to the next phase of his political career: The moderate Democrat has teased possible retirement, a run for reelection to the Senate or even a presidential campaign in 2024 — possibly as an independent candidate.

During a multi-day trip to West Virginia’s capital last week, the 76-year-old expressed growing frustration with the polarized U.S. two-party system.

“I’m having a hard time — I really am,” he said while touring a Charleston metal stamping plant.

“The two-party system, unless it changes, will be the downfall of our country.”

Manchin’s visit included the metal plant, which began being revitalized during his governorship, and an Amtrak station renovated with infrastructure funds he helped secure. He told reporters he was “getting closer” to a 2024 decision, repeating his line that he’ll make an announcement before the end of the year.

But he deflected questions about his identity as a Democrat, which

AP PHOTO

West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin speaks with reporters outside the newly renovated Amtrak train station in Charleston, W.Va. on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. he’s held since first running for West Virginia’s House of Delegates in 1982.

“Don’t worry about the ‘D’ or the ‘R’, worry about the person — who is that person?” said Manchin, who was a Democratic secretary of state and governor of West Virginia. “There can be a good D and a bad D and a good R and a bad R, but the identity — I like more the independent identity.”

Manchin, who joined Congress in 2010 and rose to prominence in West Virginia politics

when both coal and the Democratic Party were king, has wielded his influence like few other politicians in recent years.

He managed to win reelection in 2018 in one of former President Donald Trump’s most loyal states as the last of his party to hold statewide office in now-deep red West Virginia.

However, some observers say he faces very tough odds if he runs for reelection, particularly as the state’s enormously popular Republican Gov. Jim Justice has entered the race.

Some progressive Democrats over the past few years have grown weary of Manchin. His vote is one of two they’ve had to beg, convince and cajole in a 5149 Senate — but his nearly constant chides at many fellow Democrats, particularly President Joe Biden, left them concerned he could switch parties and take away their slim hold on power.

One of his most stunning rebukes of his party came in December 2021 when after months of painstaking negotiations directly with the White House, Manchin pulled his support from a $2 trillion social and environmental bill, dealing a fatal blow to Biden’s leading domestic initiative in his first year in office.

Months later, in a surprise turn of events, Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer crafted a compromise package to ultimately pass and sign into law a modest domestic bill focused on healthcare and climate change.

As Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair, Manchin has used his sway to push a variety of West Virginia initiatives, including support for miners with black lung and the completion of the contested Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline. If he chooses to run for any office, he will be counting on nuts and bolts investments making a difference to voters.

Two Republicans, Justice and

Rep. Alex Mooney, are already vying for Manchin’s Senate seat.

The senator had recruited Justice to run for governor as a Democrat before Justice, in a surprise move, switched to the GOP at a rally for Trump during his first term.

Over the last months, Manchin appeared in New Hampshire at an event for No Labels, a national political movement that could offer an independent presidential ticket in 2024. He’s currently holding around $10.8 million in campaign funds, compared to Mooney’s $1.5 million and Justice’s $800,000.

Still, Justice has a high approval rating in West Virginia, making him a formidable opponent for any candidate.

Robert Rupp, a retired political history professor at West Virginia Wesleyan, called Manchin one of the most successful campaigners in recent state history because of his personal relationships with constituents.

The question, Rupp said, is whether Manchin will “risk his reputation and further political career by running for a race where the odds are overwhelmingly against him.”

“On paper, most of the people would write him off, but I haven’t, based on his past record of success,” Rupp said. “I have some doubts that he would run as an independent, since that’s in many ways a road to nowhere.”

The Supreme Court signals support for a Republicanleaning congressional district in South Carolina The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court last week seemed likely to preserve the Republican hold on a South Carolina congressional district against a claim that it treats Black voters unfairly. The outcome could shape the fight for partisan control of the House of Representatives.

The court’s six conservative justices signaled skepticism with a lower court ruling that ordered South Carolina to redraw a coastal district that is held by Republican Rep. Nancy Mace.

Chief Justice John Roberts said a ruling for Black voters who challenged the district “would be breaking new ground in our voting rights jurisprudence.”

When Mace first won election in 2020, she edged Democratic incumbent Rep. Joe Cunningham by 1%, under 5,400 votes.

In 2022, following redistricting driven by the 2020 census results, Mace won reelection by 14%. She is one of eight Republicans who voted to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker.

With Republicans holding a thin margin in the U.S. House, the loss or gain of one seat could

AP PHOTO

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., speaks with reporters at the Capitol in Washington, May 24, 2023. alter the balance of power after the 2024 elections.

The Republican-led legislature’s 2022 redistricting moved 30,000 Black residents of Charleston out of Mace’s district.

The state argued that partisan politics, not race, and a population boom in coastal areas explain the congressional map.

“The General Assembly had no reason to and did not use a racial target. It used political data to pursue its political goals,” lawyer

John Gore told the court on behalf of the state.

But the lower court concluded that the state used race as a proxy for partisan affiliation in violation of the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, one of three liberals who sounded sympathetic to the challengers, noted that the old and new districts kept the Democratic-leaning Black voting age population at 17%, low enough to keep electing

a Republican representative.

“How do you explain the consistency? I mean, my understanding is that thousands of people were moved in and out of this district, and yet that line, the line concerning the amount of, you know, Black voter -- adult voter participation remained the same,” Jackson said.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, on the other hand, seemed to have little trouble with the state’s explanations for how the map ended up as it did. Kavanaugh asked what the court should do if it finds the state relied on solid political, rather than racial, data to draw the district.

“If that data is good, should we reverse?” he asked.

Kavanaugh and Roberts split with the other conservatives and joined the liberal justices when the Supreme Court in June said Alabama diluted Black voters’ political power.

Democrats seem likely to gain a seat in Alabama following a court-ordered redistricting that will give Alabama two congressional districts where Black voters comprise a substantial portion of the electorate. A similar pending Louisiana case could lead to

a second mostly Black district there, too.

In South Carolina, Black voters wouldn’t be as numerous in a redrawn district. But combined with a substantial set of Democratic-leaning white voters, Democrats could be competitive in the reconfigured district.

Civil rights groups challenged the map in federal court and won a ruling from a unanimous threejudge panel in January.

Leah Aden, arguing in defense of the lower-court ruling, told the justices that “four of the five heaviest Black precincts” were moved out of Mace’s district, while a much lower percentage of majority-white voting precincts were moved.

The lower court put its order on hold to allow the state to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said in January that “we don’t need to draw anything until five members of the Supreme Court say we have to.”

Both sides want a decision by Jan. 1 so that the state can use a congressional map in the 2024 elections that complies with the Supreme Court’s ruling.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

obituaries

Julia Hernandez Velasco

February 17, 1973 ~ October 15, 2023 Julia Hernandez Velasco passed away on October 15, 2023 at the age of 50.

Julia was born in Veracruz, Mexico on February 17, 1973, to the late Sebastian Hernandez Bautista and Delfina Velasco Cruz.

She was a calm and humble woman. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Julia was always nice and caring with her grandchildren.

Even though she was sick, she was outgoing. She was a fighter.

Julia is survived by her husband, Dionicio Brasil; five children, Alma Hernandez, Monica Brasil (Anibal Lucas), Juan Hernandez, Anna Hernandez (David Salvador), Henry Brasil Hernandez; grandchildren, Larry Brasil, Carlos Brasil, Dianna Brasil, Rosa Hernandez, Laly Brasil, Erick Brasil, Armando Salvador, Nayeli Lucas, Alondra Salvador, Javier A. Sosa, Thiago S. Sosa, and one on the way.

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Carolyn (Douglas) Rebecca Hobson September 12, 1963 ~ October Caddell 1952 ~ 2023

Mrs. Carolyn Douglas Caddell of Raeford went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the age of 71.

Carolyn was born on April 23, 1952, to the late James E. and Johnsie Richardson Douglas. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Jacki Burley, and her sister Barbara Douglas She was an avid Gardner and enjoyed being a mother and grandmother.

She is survived by two sons Jennings Walters of Raeford, NC, and James Burley and his wife Nicole of Carthage, NC.; four grandchildren Rachel, Kathryn, Alyssa, and D.J.; two brothers. Allen K. Douglas and his wife Debra of Raeford and Richard S. Douglas of Carthage, NC. Several nieces and nephews.

7

12, 2023

Ms. Rebecca Hobson transitioned from earth to glory on October 12, 2023.

Cyrus Peterkin Jr.

September 5, 1953 ~ October 9, 2023 Mr. Cyrus Peterkin Jr. age, 70 transitioned from earth to glory on October 9, 2023.

Marie Leach Tarleton

November 26, 1948 ~ October 10, 2023

January 26, 1931 ~ October 13, 2023

Marie Leach Tarleton passed away at home on October 10, 2023, at the age of 74.

She was born in Biscoe, NC on November 26, 1948, to the late Junior Martin Leach and Connie Belle Freeman Leach.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Sare Oncul Tucker.

Marie was previously the owner and operator of the Courtyard Grill in Lumberton.

She is survived by her husband, Alfred “Mac” McInnis Tarleton, Jr., of Lumberton, NC.; son Greg Tarleton (Sheritza Mandrell) of Goldsboro, NC; daughter, Angela “Angie” Tarleton (Craig Wade), of Lumberton, NC; grandson, Kardar Oncul; two greatgrandchildren, Ella Tucker and Braydon Tucker; sister, Carolyn Britt (Mike) of Myrtle Beach, SC; brother, James Leach (Rosie) of Wilmington, NC; and a special friend, Betty Pittman of Shallotte, NC.

Ms. Rita Lee Neely Mason passed away peacefully in her sleep at home under the compassionate, professional care of First Health Hospice on October 13, 2023, at the age of 92.

Rita was born at home, delivered by her older sister Mary Teresa Lerner in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia on January 26, 1931, to the late John Thomas Neely and Sarah Etta Whisner Neely.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Mack Mason; ten brothers and sisters; and one grandson, Brant Hogbin.

She was a devout Catholic and the eldest member of the congregation at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church of Raeford. Rita received a Plenary Indulgence from Pope John XXIII in 1968.

She graduated from Swanson School for Swedish Massage in 1966. She was a massage therapist at the Town of Bath Spa in Berkeley Springs, WV. She was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening, bird watching, horseback riding, and ceramic making. She was an avid animal lover.

Rita is survived by her children, Diane Rita LaVelle Middleton (Louie) of Shallotte, NC; Rick J. LaVelle, of Raeford, NC; Dawn Marie May (Benny) of Boone, NC; David Thomas Mason (Kelly Cassedy Mason) of Raeford, NC; five grandchildren, Eric Hogbin, Miles Greer, Nicholas Mason, Olivia Mason, and John May; great-grandchildren, Brant Hogbin, Jr., Ruby Pearrell, Phoebe Hogbin, Molli Hogbin, Ivan Hogbin, and Ava Greer; and one great great grandchild, Ashton Pearrell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the National Audubon Society.

David McNair

May 28, 1962 ~ October 7, 2023

Celebrate the life of your loved ones.

Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

Rita Lee Neely Mason

Mr. David McNair Sr age, 61 went home to rest with his heavenly father on October 7, 2023. He was preceded in death by his son David McNair Jr. along with his parents, James Curtis Sr. and Wilhelmenia McNair.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Debra S. McNair; children: Jamelle McNair, Amere Campbell, DaViyon McNair, Michael Roper, Chloe McNair, Ashanti McNair, Dashawna McNair, Nyeamah Troutman, LaTonya McRae; siblings: Mary Cole, Dorothy McNair, Brenda McNair, James McNair Jr; sixteen grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. David will be greatly missed.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Report: Abortion declined significantly in North Carolina in first month after new restrictions The Associated Press RALEIGH — North Carolina appears to have had a significant decline in abortions performed in the first month after new restrictions approved by state legislators took effect, according to estimates released Wednesday by a research group.

The findings by the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion policies, are based on data collected from a sample of abortion providers in the state as part of its new effort by the group to calculate monthly trends in abortions — both surgical and medication — nationwide.

A new law approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly over the veto of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper that started July 1 banned nearly all abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with additional exceptions for rape and incest and for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies.

Before July 1, North Carolina had a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks.

The data showed an estimated 2,920 abortions were provided in July in North Carolina within the state’s formal health care system, compared with an estimated 4,230 in June, or a 31% decline, according to Guttmacher’s Monthly Abortion Provision Study. It found the state

AP PHOTO

Protesters on both sides of the issue hold signs as North Carolina House members debate, Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Raleigh. had by far the largest decline nationwide, which saw an estimated 7% month-over-month reduction.

The group’s policy experts contend that while the new 12week near-ban is having an effect on discouraging abortion, a new in-person requirement to receive state-mandated counseling may be more influential.

That requires a woman seeking an abortion to visit a provider to comply with the state’s previously approved 72-hour waiting period, rather than check in with a

phone call.

Traveling twice to a provider, who could be hours away, may be too onerous for some women, leading some to obtain abortion pills on their own by mail or to carry their pregnancy to term, according to the Institute.

The July estimate “likely represents both North Carolinians and out-of-state patients who are no longer able to access vital reproductive health care due to arbitrary gestational bans and medically unnecessary barriers,” lsaac Maddow-Zimet, who leads

Guttmacher’s new study project, said in a news release.

The group’s analysis cautioned that North Carolina’s marked decline could in part reflect seasonal variations in when pregnancies occur and that trends may change in the months ahead as patients and providers adapt to the new law.

The report, which collects data back to January, showed North Carolina’s abortion totals largely steady for the first six months of the year.

The group said its new data showed no increases in abortions provided in South Carolina, Virginia, the District of Columbia or Maryland, which could have contributed to North Carolina’s decline in July if they occurred.

The conservative North Carolina Values Coalition, which supports pro-life policies, said it was encouraged by the reduction in abortions as the law was carried out. The new law also included funds to increase contraceptive services, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and provide paid maternity leave for state employees and teachers.

“It is great news that the lives of more innocent unborn children are being saved and that the new law appears to be working to keep North Carolina from being a destination for abortion,” Executive Director Tami

Republican Jeff Landry wins the Louisiana governor’s race, reclaims office for GOP The Associated Press BATON ROUGE, La. — Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, has won the Louisiana governor’s race, holding off a crowded field of candidates.

The win is a major victory for the GOP as they reclaim the governor’s mansion for the first time in eight years. Landry will replace current Gov. John Bel Edwards, who was unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits. Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the Deep South.

“Today’s election says that our state is united,” Landry said during his victory speech Saturday night. “It’s a wake up call and it’s a message that everyone should hear loud and clear, that we the people in this state are going to expect more out of our government from here on out.”

By garnering more than half of the votes, Landry avoided an expected runoff under the state’s “jungle primary” system. The last time there wasn’t a gubernatorial runoff in Louisiana was in 2011 and 2007, when Bobby Jin-

dal, a Republican, won the state’s top position.

The governor-elect, who celebrated with supporters during a watch party in Broussard, Louisiana, described the election as “historic.”

Landry, 52, has raised the profile of attorney general since taking office in 2016. He has used his office to champion conservative policy positions. More recently, Landry has been in the spotlight over his involvement and staunch support of Louisiana laws that have drawn much debate, including banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youths, the state’s near-total abortion ban that doesn’t have exceptions for cases of rape and incest, and a law restricting youths’ access to “sexually explicit material” in libraries, which opponents fear will target LGBTQ+ books.

Landry has repeatedly clashed with Edwards over matters in the state, including LGBTQ rights, state finances and the death penalty. However the Republican has also repeatedly put Louisiana in national fights, including

over President Joe Biden’s policies that limit oil and gas production and COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Landry spent two years on Capitol Hill, beginning in 2011, where he represented Louisiana’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District. Prior to his political career, Landry served 11 years in the Louisiana Army National Guard, was a local police officer, sheriff’s deputy and attorney.

During the gubernatorial election season, Landry had long been considered the early frontrunner, winning the endorsement of high profile Republicans — Trump and U.S. Rep Steve Scalise — and a controversial early endorsement from the state GOP. In addition, Landry has enjoyed a sizable fundraising advantage over the rest of the field throughout the race.

Landry has made clear that one of his top priorities as governor would be addressing crime in urban areas. The Republican has pushed a tough-on-crime rhetoric, calling for more “transparency” in the justice system and continuing to support cap-

ital punishment. Louisiana has the nation’s second-highest murder rate per capita.

Along the campaign trail, Landry faced political attacks from opponents on social media and in interviews, calling him a bully and making accusations of backroom deals to gain support. He also faced scrutiny for skipping all but one of the major-televised debates.

Among other gubernatorial candidates on the ballot were GOP state Sen. Sharon Hewitt; Hunter Lundy, a Lake Charlesbased attorney running as an independent; Republican state Treasurer John Schroder; Stephen Waguespack, the Republican former head of a powerful business group and former senior aide to then-Gov. Jindal; and Shawn Wilson, the former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and sole major Democratic candidate.

Wilson, who was the runner-up, said during his concession speech that he had called Landry to congratulate him on his victory. The Democrat said

Fitzgerald said in a separate news release.

After the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v.

Wade, North Carolina had become a refuge for residents in nearby states like Georgia, Tennessee and West Virginia that severely restricted or banned abortions. Guttmacher estimated abortions in North Carolina had increased 55% during the first half of 2023 compared with half of the total for 2020 across all months.

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and a doctor sued in June over provisions in the new law. A federal judge has blocked two such portions, including a requirement that abortions performed after 12 weeks occur in a hospital.

For the report, Guttmacher officials said that abortions are counted as having occurred when a patient had a surgical abortion — also called a procedural abortion — or abortion pills were dispensed.

The group said it doesn’t release specific numbers of facilities sampled to protect confidentiality. But Guttmacher oversampled the number of facilities — clinics, hospitals or doctor’s offices among them — in North Carolina to better calculate the effect of the new restrictions, according to a spokesperson.

during their phone call, he asked the governor-elect to keep Medicaid expansion, increase teacher pay and “educate our children the way they need to be educated.”

“The citizens of Louisiana spoke, or didn’t speak, and made a decision,” Wilson said.

Also on Saturday’s ballot were five other statewide contests and four ballot measures.

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser won reelection Saturday night, but other races won’t be decided until November.

One closely watched race is for attorney general, which holds the highest legal authority in the state’s executive branch. Liz Baker Murrill, a Republican who currently works at the Attorney General’s Office and Lindsey Cheek, a Democrat and trial attorney, have advanced to a November runoff.

Also advancing to a runoff in the state treasurer race is John Fleming, Republican, and Dustin Granger, Democrat.

In the secretary of state race, First Assistant Secretary of State Nancy Landry, a Republican, and Gwen Collins-Greenup, a Democrat and attorney, will advance to a runoff. The winner in November will have the task of replacing Louisiana’s outdated voting machines, which do not produce the paper ballots critical to ensuring accurate election results.

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THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

NEAL ROBBINS | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North State Journal publisher Neal Robbins tags the Pittsboro Kiwanis Club’s “World Famous” ham biscuit as the best at the fair.

COUNTY NEWS In-person early voting begins Thursday The one-stop early voting period for Nov. 7 elections across North Carolina begins Thursday, Oct. 19. Voters must show identification in this year’s elections.

On the ballot in Forsyth County this year are contests for High Point Mayor and City Council, King Mayor and City Council, Bethania Town Commissioner, Kernersville Mayor and Board of Aldermen, Lewisville Mayor and Town Council, Rural Hall Mayor and Town Council, Walkertown Mayor and Town Council, Clemmons Mayor and Village Council, and Tobaccoville Mayor and Village Council.

Forsyth County’s early inperson voting location is at the Board of Elections office at 201 N. Chestnut St. in WinstonSalem.

One-stop, in-person early voting ends for November municipal elections on Saturday, Nov. 4.

UNCA celebrates 20th anniversary of Watson Hall with 3 concerts The University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Watson Hall with an expanded Chamber Music Festival this month. The festival will feature three concerts and will include performances by faculty, students, and seven guest artists.

The guest artists include Grammy Award-winning violist Kim Kashkashian, cellist Brant Taylor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and hornist David ByrdMarrow of the International Contemporary Ensemble. The artists will also teach master classes throughout the week.

The concerts are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 14, Oct. 17, and Oct. 21 at Watson Hall, located at 1533 S. Main St.

Rediscovering tradition at the N.C. State Fair A trip to the fair is a journey of community, tradition, and the simple joy of a good biscuit

Kiwanis Club booth with its “World Famous” ham biscuits.

Since 1964, this booth has been a fixture at the fair, mirroring my theory that a limited menu often leads to perfected offerings. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Carolina-style hot dogs, I find the best hot dogs at the spots with the fewest options beyond a hot dog and its four accepted condiments (mustard, chili, slaw and onions). The same is true with the Pittsboro Kiwanis Club, where your options are a ham biscuit or nothing when it comes to food items.

The Kiwanis Club was my first stop on arrival Monday, but by mid-afternoon, as the crowd’s breakfast cravings gave way to a hunt for fried delights, my path led me back to the ham biscuit booth. I was

welcomed by the friendly faces of volunteers - Sledd Thomas, Jack Moore, Charlee Moore and John Justice. Chatting with Sledd, I learned about the booth’s over 60-year tradition of serving ham biscuits to fair-goers. The camaraderie among the volunteers added a dash of community spirit to the simple joy of a good biscuit.

Standing there, with a ham biscuit in hand amidst the buzz of conversations and the diverse aroma of fair food mingling in the air, the essence of the fair came alive. It’s about community, tradition and those simple joys that weave us together. Stick to your favorites at the fair, but next year, if you need a new food item, might I suggest an old staple that you might not have made your list before.

WSFCS students seeing improvements in literacy through district programs

and a professional learning series for the continuum of leadership roles within the WSFCS Equity-Driven Leadership framework.

The board then received updates on two programs from their 90 by ‘25 goal — to have 90% of third graders reading on or above grade level by 2025.

The first program, literacy coaches, began in the 2021-22 school year and was designed to build capacity in schools around literacy, said Paula Wilkins, chief academic officer.

District surveys found that over 80% of teachers felt supported and like they received regular feedback, collaborative time and walkthroughs. Almost all teachers, 91%, felt like their coach had high expecta-

By Neal Robbins North State Journal RALEIGH — I made my annual visit to the fair on Monday with my wife, Beth, and our sons, Everett, 13, and James, 8. I’ve been going to the state fair since I can remember going anywhere. I’ve seen it all, tasted it all and walked it all.

Each year, we dive into this kaleidoscope of food and fun, chasing the perfect bite amidst laughter and wild rides. With two adventurous boys, the new food choices often match the new rides in terms of excitement.

District to focus on expanding equitybased principal pipeline program

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education convened on Thursday, Oct. 12, with a focus on updates from various district programs.

The first update concerned the Equity Centered Principal Pipeline.

“Winston- Sa lem/Forsy th County Schools is one of eight large urban districts in the nation to receive this grant from the Wallace Foundation in 2021 to participate in the Equity Center Pipeline Initia-

The 2023 N.C. State Fair featured 48 new food offerings, from a colossal shrimp pop (voted best new item by local media and our own A.P. Dillon) to Hungarian chimney cakes (a must-have if you like sweets). It’s always fun to try new things at the fair (or at least see someone else try them - looking at you, fried butter).

But, most seasoned fairgoers have their staples that they just can’t miss. At the top of my list is a ham biscuit.

Cary United Methodist Church was the first fair vendor to serve ham biscuits back in 1916. The Apex Lions Club has an extensive following for their ham biscuit, which is part of a larger menu on the main drag at the State Fair.

My go-to ham biscuit has always been at the Pittsboro

tive,” said Timisha Barnes, assistant superintendent of Talent Development and School Transformation. “It is an $8.2 million grant over five years to support us in creating systems for hiring, recruiting, retaining, selecting and supporting effective, equity-driven principals.

“Our work is executed through a district partnership team made up of principals, assistant principals, central office leaders, community members, UNCG, App State and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction,” Barnes said.

According to Barnes, the pipeline focuses on seven domains: leadership standards, high-quality pre-service preparation, selective hiring and placement, leadership evaluation and support, principal supervisors, leader track-

ing systems and sustainability.

Over the program’s two years, it has developed the framework to outline competencies, established partnerships with UNCG/App State, implemented a process to vet school leader candidates, supported the first cohort of assistant principals with UNCG/ App State programs, strengthened the vetting process to align with the framework and laid the foundation for the development of a leader tracking system.

Barnes said the plan for the program’s third year includes See COMMISSIONERS, page 2 launching a leader tracking system, executing strategies to diversify leadership with a focus on increasing Black and Hispanic representation, engaging principal supervisors in the development of an equity-driven evaluation instrument and developing rubrics $2.00

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COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

I am a Jew Twin City Herald Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter.

I AM A JEW. Those have been the words of the Jewish people for three millennia.

Those were the words of the men, women and children of Masada.

Those were the words of the followers of Bar Kochba.

Those were the words of Jews in Granada in 1066 and the Rhineland in 1096 and Khmelnytsky from 1648-1657 and Kishinev in 1903, in Hebron in 1929.

Those were the words of Jews in Auschwitz and Treblinka.

Those were the words of Daniel Pearl.

Those are my words, too.

They are the words of my parents, my wife, my children.

Over the weekend, my people were attacked.

Murdered. Mutilated. Our women raped. Our children kidnapped.

This has happened millions of times before, to millions of Jews. Jew-hatred exists because evil exists. Because there are people who have, for all of human history, hated the Jews and sought to strike at them while they are weak. Who have blamed the Jews for their own problems, who have crafted complex conspiracy theories about the supposed power of the Jews, who have sought to destroy the Jews.

From Pharoah to Haman. From Hitler to Hamas.

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter. The chain is unbroken. And for two millennia, since the destruction of the last Jewish dynasty in the holy land of Israel, those Jew-haters were ascendant.

No longer. That is the promise of the State of Israel.

Never again.

The Jews will not stand by and be murdered.

They will not leave their Biblical homeland.

They will not surrender. They will be strong and courageous, as Joshua said three thousand years ago.

Israel is indispensable. Its presence is a miracle, its strength a gift.

Thank God for the State of Israel.

There are those who say that anti-Zionism is

not antisemitism. Tell that to the dead women and children in Sderot. Tell that to Hamas, who proclaim in their charter: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

There are those who say that the Israeli-Arab conflict is a “cycle of violence.” Only the morally blind and obtuse could ever say such a thing.

Look at the videos. Look at the pictures.

That is what evil looks like.

LOOK. Look, because this is what moral equivalence brings. Rape of women. Kidnapping of children.

Murder of hundreds of innocents, including full families.

For decades, we’ve been told that to look evil in its face was somehow unsophisticated. That to pretend evil away was an act of intellectual virtue.

That to cater to evil, to concede to evil, was the pathway toward a better world. It was all a damned lie.

LOOK. There are those who proclaim the complexity of it all. Those people are fools. What’s worse, they are enablers of evil, fellow travelers, justifiers of the worst human rights violations on the planet, from targeting civilians to hiding behind them.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. This was the worst week for Jews since the Holocaust.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. Look it in the face. I know that you will. I know you will because I am a Jew, and because I am an American.

Americans love justice. Americans love good.

Americans resonate to the book of Psalms, that says, “Hate evil, those who love the Lord.”

Hate evil. And fight it. Americans always have, and they always will.

I know we will.

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

Miniature ‘Star Wars’ X-wing gets over $3 million at auction of Hollywood model-maker’s collection The Associated Press DALLAS — A miniature X-wing Starfighter used in a “Star Wars” film sold for over $3 million during an auction over the weekend of items both collected and created by longtime Hollywood model-maker Greg Jein.

The collection amassed by Jein, who died last year at the age of 76, brought in about $13.6 million during an event at Heritage Auctions in Dallas. The auction house said that everyone from model-makers to collectors and science-fiction fans attended, making the event its best-attended in years.

Joe Maddalena, Heritage’s executive vice president and a longtime friend of Jein’s, said in a news release Monday that the auction was “a profound testament to my friend as both a visual-effects master and one of the great collectors.”

AP PHOTO Jein not only had an Oscar and Emmy-nominated career mak- A miniature model called “Red Leader,” a X-wing Starfighter from the 1977 film “Star War, ing miniature models for nearly Episode IV, A New Hope,” sits on display at Heritage Auctions, Aug. 30, 2023, in Irving, Texas. half a century, but he also spent a lifetime collecting costumes, before he worked on the franchise props, scripts, artwork, pho- New Hope” sold for about $3.1 that sold for $645,000.

A rare surviving spacesuit — and some of the items that he tographs and models from the million after a bidding duel between two collectors, the auc- from Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film collected were popular at the aucshows he loved.

The Red Leader X-wing Star- tion house said. Also going for an “2001: A Space Odyssey” sold for tion. A filming model of the “SS Botany Bay” vessel from “Star fighter that was used in the 1977 eye-popping amount was a “Star $447,000.

Jein was a fan of “ Star Trek “ Trek: The Original Series” from film “Star Wars: Episode IV — A Wars” Stormtrooper costume

BOE from page 1

tions for them.

According to district data, five of the 12 schools are on track to reach their DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) targets. For last year’s first-grade

benchmarks, the six areas of focus for DIBELS measurements — phonemic awareness, letter name, decoding, letter sounds, reading accuracy, reading fluency — saw an increase between 12-19%.

The second program was the Reading Warriors tutors.

“Reading Warriors volunteers are an additional third level of support beyond the teachers and additional professionals in the school,” Wilkins said. “Those tutors help support two days a week for 30 minutes with a specific intervention.”

According to Wilkins, 96%

of the 47 tutors surveyed felt they had a great or excellent overall experience and 83% felt welcomed and important.

The board approved three contracts for exceptional children nursing services and a $87,500 contract with Education Resource Group to provide

the 1960s went for $200,000 while prop devices from that series like a hero phaser went for $187,500 and a tricorder garnered $175,000.

Jein, who grew up in Los Angeles, was still early in his career when he led the team that created the mothership for Steven Spielberg’s 1977 film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The model that appears gigantic in the movie is just over 5 feet (1.5 meters) long and now part of the collection at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. A small preliminary model, which is about 5 inches (12 centimeters) long, brought in $55,000 at the auction.

Lou Zutavern, Jein’s longtime friend and shop supervisor, said that he and Jein always had “a ball” working together. He said Jein was a great friend, and recalled the time he brought a box filled with model kits to entertain Zutavern after he had a knee surgery.

Zutavern said his friend had a love of Hollywood history, and a passion for seeking out items for his collection.

“He loved the search and finding things and making a trade,” Zutavern said. “It was part of the fun for him.”

professional development for Carver High School staff.

“These are Title I dollars that are at the school’s discretion to use to further the development of their staff,” said board member Sabrina Coone.

The WSFCS Board of Education will next meet Oct. 24.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

SIDELINE REPORT

3

SPORTS

the better part of th ing to earn acceptan stitutions,” Ural said don’t know what we’r now.”

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Cardinals staff shaken after armed robbery at Dominican Republic complex Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Authorities are seeking at least five people in an armed robbery of the St. Louis Cardinals complex in the Dominican Republic on Friday. Dominican Republic police spokesman Diego Pesqueira told The Associated Press that the suspects bound and gagged a security guard and stole watches, rings, necklaces and other items from athletes and personnel.

Pesqueira said the suspects used the guard’s shoelaces to tie his wrists and ankles together. No one was injured, and no shots were fired, he said. A statement from the Cardinals said baseball equipment was also stolen. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak says players and staff at the complex were shaken.

Kyle Larson (5) finishes ahead of Christopher Bell (20) and Zane Smith (38) to win Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at Las Vegas.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jordan Smart AP PHOTO

Larson earns spot in title race with victory at Las Vegas The 2021 champion clinched a spot in the winner-take-all race at Phoenix on Nov. 5

NFL

The Associated Press

49ers’ Kittle fined $13K-plus for profane T-shirt

LAS VEGAS — Kyle Larson used a spectacular mid-race save, got a lightning fast final pit stop from his Hendrick Motorsports crew, then held off Christopher Bell at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway finish line to become the first driver locked into the Cup Series’ championship finale.

The 2021 Cup champion earned the first of four spots in the Nov. 5 title-deciding finale with his win in Sunday’s opening race of the round of eight of the playoffs.

“Glad we don’t need to stress in the last two races,” said Larson.

Larson’s fourth win of the season was the most important: Hendrick Motorsports could theoretically coast through the next two weeks and focus mostly on preparing for the finale at Phoenix Raceway. Joey Logano won Las Vegas last year and parlayed the two weeks of prep time into a championship-clinching win at Phoenix.

There won’t be any rest for the No. 5 team, though.

“If we just say, ‘Hey, we’re going to cruise for the next two weeks,’ then you are not operating with the edge that I think you’re going to need to win it in Phoenix,” said crew chief Cliff Daniels.

“There’s two more races to win, and the way I see this now is that we’re in the position, we get to play those races to win.”

Larson led 133 laps and beat Bell by 0.082 seconds.

He needed a pretty remarkable save in the second stage when his Chevy wiggled and Larson somehow escaped with only denting the rear corner of the car into the wall. It was a save that Daniels

Santa Clara, Calif.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was fined more than $13,000 by the NFL for wearing a profane T-shirt about the Dallas Cowboys. Kittle wore a T-shirt under his uniform last week that said “F Dallas,” with the rest of the first word hidden by white tape. He exposed it to the national television audience after a touchdown run in the fourth quarter

by Jordan Mason. The league announced that Kittle was fined $13,659 for the infraction. Kittle said earlier in the week that he expected to be fined but said it would be worth the penalty “100%. I’d do it again.”

AUTO RACING

Paralyzed driver Wickens wins IMSA class title Braselton, Georgia Robert Wickens, paralyzed from the waist down in an IndyCar crash five years ago, won an IMSA class title at Road Atlanta on Friday. Wickens uses a car equipped with hand controls for paralyzed drivers. He and co-driver Harry Gottsacker finished fourth in the Fox Factory 120 to claim the title. The Bryan Herta Autosports entry needed to finish in eighth to clinch the championship. Wickens said he felt like he proved he could return last year and believes this season’s run to the title was more streamlined and professional.

TENNIS

Tel Aviv Open canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war London The Tel Aviv Open tennis tournament scheduled for next month has been canceled because of the Israel-Hamas war. The ATP men’s tour says the decision was made after consultation with security experts and with the safety of players and fans in mind.

The event was scheduled for early November. In last year’s final, Novak Djokovic defeated Marin Cilic in straight sets to take the title.

believes only Larson could pull off.

“I just tried to take a deep breath and really forget about that as quickly as possible and get refocused,” Larson said.

It kept him in contention and Larson claimed the lead on pit road when his crew had the fastest stop following a caution with 57 laps remaining. Bell had control of the race at that point, but Larson was first off pit road.

Bell, who started on the pole in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, was third after the pit stop. Passing seemed particularly difficult Sunday at Las Vegas, and Bell was sort of stuck following Larson for the rest of the race.

But he made a run at Larson over the final handful of laps, closing the gap each time by the flag stand. As they closed in on the checkered flag, Bell gave it one furious push inside of Larson but couldn’t beat him to the line.

“I don’t know what else I could have done,” a dejected Bell said. “I feel like that was my moment. That was my moment to make the final four and didn’t capture it. It would have been nice to lock in.”

Larson praised Bell, his longtime sprint car rival, for racing him cleanly to the finish line.

“I could see him coming in my mirror, for sure,” Larson said of Bell’s closing rate. “Thankfully, Christopher always races extremely clean. Could have got crazier than it did coming to the start/finish line. Thank you to him for racing with respect there.”

Kyle Busch, a Las Vegas native, finished third in a Chevrolet. He was followed by Brad Keselowski in a Ford and Ross Chastain in a Chevrolet. All three were eliminated from the playoffs last Sunday at Charlotte.

The Cup Series goes to Homestead-Miami Speedway next Sunday for the middle race in the round of eight.

Larson is the defending race winner.

COURTESY PHOTO

Ronald Reagan, volleyball Jordan Smart is a senior setter and team captain of the Ronald Reagan Raiders volleyball team.

The Raiders swept all three matches last week, beating West Stokes, Mount Tabor and RJ Reynolds in 3-0 victories to wrap up an undefeated regular season. As Reagan prepares for the playoffs, they sit on a 30-0 record, 14-0 in the Central Piedmont.

Smart led the way with 96 assists in the three games. By comparison, the rest of the Reagan team managed just 13 assists, combined, in the three matches. Smart leads the team for the season in aces and assists and is second in digs.

UNC’s Maye, NC State’s Wilson headline AP’s ACC midyear honorees Clemson was voted the most disappointing team The Associated Press UNC QUARTERBACK DRAKE MAYE, NC State linebacker Payton Wilson and Louisville coach Jeff Brohm headline the honorees in The Associated Press’ midseason report for the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Maye was picked as the top offensive player through the season’s first half in voting by AP writers covering league teams, while Wilson was picked as top defensive player. Brohm was the choice as top coach after the Cardinals’ fast start, which also made Louisville the pick as the most surprising team so far.

Maye, a third-year passer and top NFL prospect, edged out quarterback Jordan Travis of fourth-ranked Florida State after helping the No. 12 Tar Heels (5-0, 2-0) post their best start since 1997. He entered the season facing massive expectations and got off to a slow start with TD throws as the team leaned more on the running game under new coordinator Chip Lindsey, but

AP PHOTO

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson was voted as the ACC’s top defensive player at the season’s midway point by The Associated Press. he ranks among the Bowl Subdivision leaders in passing yardage (fourth, 325.8), total offense (360.6) and completion percentage (14th, 72.1%) while also running for four scores.

“Drake has thrown for a few more yards this year than he did this time last year, and it’s been against tougher competition,”

UNC coach Mack Brown said.

Wilson has been a relentless presence in the middle of the Wolfpack’s defense. He’s fourth in FBS with 11.7 tackles per game, and he’s had at least nine stops in every game.

“He’s the leader of this football team,” Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren said. “He’s the best player on

this football team.”

As for Brohm, he left Purdue to return to the program where he starred as a passer. His Cardinals (6-0, 3-0 ACC) were picked to finish eighth in the league, but they’re off to their best start since 2013 after ending Notre Dame’s 30-game winning streak against ACC teams in the regular season.

“We’ve raised the bar here a little bit with this past win,” Brohm said. “If you want to be good, you’ve got to back it up every week. If you can’t back it up every week, then you’re really not that good.”

Clemson, which was picked ahead of FSU to win the ACC for the eighth time in nine years, was voted the most disappointing team. The Tigers opened the season at No. 9 but was blown out in its season opener at Duke, tumbled 16 spots to No. 25 for one week and then ultimately fell out of the poll before falling to FSU for an 0-2 ACC start.

At Virginia, coach Tony Elliott was named the coach on the hottest seat.

Elliott is 4-12 in Year 2 with the Cavaliers (1-5, 0-2), including 1-8 in ACC play. Two of those four wins have come against Coastal Athletic Association teams from the Championship Subdivision.

Elsewhere, Boston College’s Jeff Hafley started his tenure with a pair of six-win seasons but went 3-9 last year with the Eagles (3-3, 1-2).

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

4

STATE & NATION Report: Abortion declined significantly in North Carolina in first month after new restrictions The Associated Press RALEIGH — North Carolina appears to have had a significant decline in abortions performed in the first month after new restrictions approved by state legislators took effect, according to estimates released Wednesday by a research group.

The findings by the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion policies, are based on data collected from a sample of abortion providers in the state as part of its new effort by the group to calculate monthly trends in abortions — both surgical and medication — nationwide.

A new law approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly over the veto of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper that started July 1 banned nearly all abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with additional exceptions for rape and incest and for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies.

Before July 1, North Carolina had a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks.

The data showed an estimated 2,920 abortions were provided in July in North Carolina within the state’s formal health care system, compared with an estimated 4,230 in June, or a 31% decline, according to Guttmacher’s Monthly Abortion Provision Study. It found the state

AP PHOTO

Protesters on both sides of the issue hold signs as North Carolina House members debate, Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Raleigh. had by far the largest decline nationwide, which saw an estimated 7% month-over-month reduction.

The group’s policy experts contend that while the new 12week near-ban is having an effect on discouraging abortion, a new in-person requirement to receive state-mandated counseling may be more influential.

That requires a woman seeking an abortion to visit a provider to comply with the state’s previously approved 72-hour waiting period, rather than check in with a

phone call.

Traveling twice to a provider, who could be hours away, may be too onerous for some women, leading some to obtain abortion pills on their own by mail or to carry their pregnancy to term, according to the Institute.

The July estimate “likely represents both North Carolinians and out-of-state patients who are no longer able to access vital reproductive health care due to arbitrary gestational bans and medically unnecessary barriers,” lsaac Maddow-Zimet, who leads

Guttmacher’s new study project, said in a news release.

The group’s analysis cautioned that North Carolina’s marked decline could in part reflect seasonal variations in when pregnancies occur and that trends may change in the months ahead as patients and providers adapt to the new law.

The report, which collects data back to January, showed North Carolina’s abortion totals largely steady for the first six months of the year.

The group said its new data showed no increases in abortions provided in South Carolina, Virginia, the District of Columbia or Maryland, which could have contributed to North Carolina’s decline in July if they occurred.

The conservative North Carolina Values Coalition, which supports pro-life policies, said it was encouraged by the reduction in abortions as the law was carried out. The new law also included funds to increase contraceptive services, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and provide paid maternity leave for state employees and teachers.

“It is great news that the lives of more innocent unborn children are being saved and that the new law appears to be working to keep North Carolina from being a destination for abortion,” Executive Director Tami

Republican Jeff Landry wins the Louisiana governor’s race, reclaims office for GOP The Associated Press BATON ROUGE, La. — Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, has won the Louisiana governor’s race, holding off a crowded field of candidates.

The win is a major victory for the GOP as they reclaim the governor’s mansion for the first time in eight years. Landry will replace current Gov. John Bel Edwards, who was unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits. Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the Deep South.

“Today’s election says that our state is united,” Landry said during his victory speech Saturday night. “It’s a wake up call and it’s a message that everyone should hear loud and clear, that we the people in this state are going to expect more out of our government from here on out.”

By garnering more than half of the votes, Landry avoided an expected runoff under the state’s “jungle primary” system. The last time there wasn’t a gubernatorial runoff in Louisiana was in 2011 and 2007, when Bobby Jin-

dal, a Republican, won the state’s top position.

The governor-elect, who celebrated with supporters during a watch party in Broussard, Louisiana, described the election as “historic.”

Landry, 52, has raised the profile of attorney general since taking office in 2016. He has used his office to champion conservative policy positions. More recently, Landry has been in the spotlight over his involvement and staunch support of Louisiana laws that have drawn much debate, including banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youths, the state’s near-total abortion ban that doesn’t have exceptions for cases of rape and incest, and a law restricting youths’ access to “sexually explicit material” in libraries, which opponents fear will target LGBTQ+ books.

Landry has repeatedly clashed with Edwards over matters in the state, including LGBTQ rights, state finances and the death penalty. However the Republican has also repeatedly put Louisiana in national fights, including

over President Joe Biden’s policies that limit oil and gas production and COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Landry spent two years on Capitol Hill, beginning in 2011, where he represented Louisiana’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District. Prior to his political career, Landry served 11 years in the Louisiana Army National Guard, was a local police officer, sheriff’s deputy and attorney.

During the gubernatorial election season, Landry had long been considered the early frontrunner, winning the endorsement of high profile Republicans — Trump and U.S. Rep Steve Scalise — and a controversial early endorsement from the state GOP. In addition, Landry has enjoyed a sizable fundraising advantage over the rest of the field throughout the race.

Landry has made clear that one of his top priorities as governor would be addressing crime in urban areas. The Republican has pushed a tough-on-crime rhetoric, calling for more “transparency” in the justice system and continuing to support cap-

ital punishment. Louisiana has the nation’s second-highest murder rate per capita.

Along the campaign trail, Landry faced political attacks from opponents on social media and in interviews, calling him a bully and making accusations of backroom deals to gain support. He also faced scrutiny for skipping all but one of the major-televised debates.

Among other gubernatorial candidates on the ballot were GOP state Sen. Sharon Hewitt; Hunter Lundy, a Lake Charlesbased attorney running as an independent; Republican state Treasurer John Schroder; Stephen Waguespack, the Republican former head of a powerful business group and former senior aide to then-Gov. Jindal; and Shawn Wilson, the former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and sole major Democratic candidate.

Wilson, who was the runner-up, said during his concession speech that he had called Landry to congratulate him on his victory. The Democrat said

Fitzgerald said in a separate news release.

After the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v.

Wade, North Carolina had become a refuge for residents in nearby states like Georgia, Tennessee and West Virginia that severely restricted or banned abortions. Guttmacher estimated abortions in North Carolina had increased 55% during the first half of 2023 compared with half of the total for 2020 across all months.

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic and a doctor sued in June over provisions in the new law. A federal judge has blocked two such portions, including a requirement that abortions performed after 12 weeks occur in a hospital.

For the report, Guttmacher officials said that abortions are counted as having occurred when a patient had a surgical abortion — also called a procedural abortion — or abortion pills were dispensed.

The group said it doesn’t release specific numbers of facilities sampled to protect confidentiality. But Guttmacher oversampled the number of facilities — clinics, hospitals or doctor’s offices among them — in North Carolina to better calculate the effect of the new restrictions, according to a spokesperson.

during their phone call, he asked the governor-elect to keep Medicaid expansion, increase teacher pay and “educate our children the way they need to be educated.”

“The citizens of Louisiana spoke, or didn’t speak, and made a decision,” Wilson said.

Also on Saturday’s ballot were five other statewide contests and four ballot measures.

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser won reelection Saturday night, but other races won’t be decided until November.

One closely watched race is for attorney general, which holds the highest legal authority in the state’s executive branch. Liz Baker Murrill, a Republican who currently works at the Attorney General’s Office and Lindsey Cheek, a Democrat and trial attorney, have advanced to a November runoff.

Also advancing to a runoff in the state treasurer race is John Fleming, Republican, and Dustin Granger, Democrat.

In the secretary of state race, First Assistant Secretary of State Nancy Landry, a Republican, and Gwen Collins-Greenup, a Democrat and attorney, will advance to a runoff. The winner in November will have the task of replacing Louisiana’s outdated voting machines, which do not produce the paper ballots critical to ensuring accurate election results.

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 34 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

NEAL ROBBINS | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North State Journal publisher Neal Robbins tags the Pittsboro Kiwanis Club’s “World Famous” ham biscuit as the best at the fair.

WHAT’S HAPPENING In-person early voting begins Thursday The one-stop early voting period for Nov. 7 elections across North Carolina begins Thursday, Oct. 19. Voters must show identification in this year’s elections.

On the ballot in Moore County this year are contests for Foxfire Village Council, Aberdeen Board of Commissioners, Cameron Mayor and Board of Commissioners, Carthage Mayor and Board of Commissioners, Pinebluff Board of Commissioners, Robbins Mayor and Board of Commissioners, Southern Pines Mayor and Town Council, Taylortown Town Council, Vass Mayor and Board of Commissioners, Pinehurst Mayor and Village Council, and Whispering Pines Village Council.

Moore County’s early inperson voting location is at the Agricultural Center at 707 Pinehurst Ave. in Carthage.

One-stop, in-person early voting ends for November municipal elections on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Rep. Hudson’s bill to protect school archery, hunting programs becomes law Legislation designed to protect archery and hunting programs in schools, cosponsored by U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), was recently signed into law by President Joe Biden. The Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act or H.R. 5110, received overwhelming bipartisan support, passing the House of Representatives on a vote of 424-1 and the Senate unanimously. The lone nay in the House was by Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX 16).

Rediscovering tradition at the N.C. State Fair A trip to the fair is a journey of community, tradition, and the simple joy of a good biscuit

By Neal Robbins North State Journal RALEIGH — I made my annual visit to the fair on Monday with my wife, Beth, and our sons, Everett, 13, and James, 8.

I’ve been going to the state fair since I can remember going anywhere. I’ve seen it all, tasted it all and walked it all.

Each year, we dive into this kaleidoscope of food and fun, chasing the perfect bite amidst laughter and wild rides. With two adventurous boys, the new

food choices often match the new rides in terms of excitement.

The 2023 N.C. State Fair featured 48 new food offerings, from a colossal shrimp pop (voted best new item by local media and our own A.P. Dillon) to Hungarian chimney cakes (a must-have if you like sweets). It’s always fun to try new things at the fair (or at least see someone else try them - looking at you, fried butter). But, most seasoned fairgoers have their staples that they just can’t miss. At the top of my list is a ham biscuit.

Cary United Methodist Church was the first fair vendor to serve ham biscuits back in 1916. The Apex Lions Club has an extensive following for their

ham biscuit, which is part of a larger menu on the main drag at the State Fair.

My go-to ham biscuit has always been at the Pittsboro Kiwanis Club booth with its “World Famous” ham biscuits.

Since 1964, this booth has been a fixture at the fair, mirroring my theory that a limited menu often leads to perfected offerings. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Carolina-style hot dogs, I find the best hot dogs at the spots with the fewest options beyond a hot dog and its four accepted condiments (mustard, chili, slaw and onions). The same is true with the Pittsboro Kiwanis Club, where your options are a ham biscuit or nothing when it comes to food items.

The Kiwanis Club was my first stop on arrival Monday, but by mid-afternoon, as the crowd’s breakfast cravings gave way to a hunt for fried delights, my path led me back to the ham biscuit booth. I was welcomed by the friendly faces of volunteers - Sledd Thomas, Jack Moore, Charlee Moore and John Justice. Chatting with Sledd, I learned about the booth’s over 60-year tradition of serving ham biscuits to fair-goers. The camaraderie among the volunteers added a dash of community spirit to the simple joy of a good biscuit.

Standing there, with a ham biscuit in hand amidst the buzz of conversations and the diverse aroma of fair food mingling in the air, the essence of the fair came alive. It’s about community, tradition and those simple joys that weave us together.

Stick to your favorites at the fair, but next year, if you need a new food item, might I suggest an old staple that you might not have made your list before.

Moore County schools board approves contracts, field trips

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal BENNETT — The Moore County Schools Board of Education met Tuesday, Oct. 10, to discuss several contractual matters.

The board first approved a two-year contract with Republic Services, costing $192,567.96, to provide waste removal and recycling for all 23 schools and the central office maintenance and garage area.

The contract can be extended up to three times for an additional year, with a maximum duration of five years.

Next, the board approved three Exceptional Children contracts for speech and language therapy services for the

2023-24 school year, totaling $270,000. Deputy Superintendent Mike Metcalf noted that a district-employed speech pathologist would earn $55 an hour, based on a state-set salary scale, while the current contracted price is $80 an hour.

Board member David Hensley said, “It goes without saying that it’s much cheaper to hire and retain people even if we have to pay them more. We have a chronic shortage of math and science teachers and now we have a shortage of speech pathologists and so we’re forced to pay 50% more to hire contractors.”

The board approved five outof-state field trips for the upcoming school year.

“Several of these I am very

much for, such as the band and orchestra, speech and debate team,” said board member Pauline Bruno. But, she emphasized that students must meet certain behavior and academic standards to participate.

Tracy Metcalf, director for Student Support Services, noted that the “trips are all aligned to the standard course of study, so they are academic trips. For behavioral standards, they do set a standard for that and students do have to meet that standard in order to go on the trip and we do monitor those things.”

Lastly, the board approved a new standard for numbering board policies. Superintendent Tim Locklair explained, “This is simply renumbering our pol-

icies to align with the North Carolina School Board’s policy process so when we get an update from them based on the law or a new regulation from the state board of education, that number then aligns with the number we have.”

The Moore County Schools Board of Education will next meet Nov. 6.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

10.18.23

“Join the conversation”

Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

moore

I am Jew I AM A JEW. Those have been the words of the Jewish people for three millennia.

Those were the words of the men, women and children of Masada.

Those were the words of the followers of Bar Kochba.

Those were the words of Jews in Granada in 1066 and the Rhineland in 1096 and Khmelnytsky from 1648-1657 and Kishinev in 1903, in Hebron in 1929.

Those were the words of Jews in Auschwitz and Treblinka.

Those were the words of Daniel Pearl.

Those are my words, too.

They are the words of my parents, my wife, my children.

Over the weekend, my people were attacked. Murdered. Mutilated. Our women raped. Our children kidnapped.

This has happened millions of times before, to millions of Jews. Jew-hatred exists because evil exists. Because there are people who have, for all of human history, hated the Jews and sought to strike at them while they are weak. Who have blamed the Jews for their own problems, who have crafted complex conspiracy theories about the supposed power of the Jews, who have sought to destroy the Jews.

From Pharoah to Haman. From Hitler to Hamas.

The words of the Nazis are indistinguishable from the words of the Hamas charter. The chain is unbroken.

And for two millennia, since the destruction of the last Jewish dynasty in the holy land of Israel, those Jew-haters were ascendant.

No longer. That is the promise of the State of Israel.

Never again.

The Jews will not stand by and be murdered. They will not leave their Biblical homeland. They will not surrender. They will be strong and courageous, as Joshua said three thousand years ago.

Israel is indispensable. Its presence is a miracle, its strength a gift.

Thank God for the State of Israel.

There are those who say that antiZionism is not antisemitism. Tell that to

happening

the dead women and children in Sderot.

Tell that to Hamas, who proclaim in their charter: “Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it.”

There are those who say that the IsraeliArab conflict is a “cycle of violence.” Only the morally blind and obtuse could ever say such a thing.

Look at the videos. Look at the pictures.

That is what evil looks like.

LOOK. Look, because this is what moral equivalence brings. Rape of women.

Kidnapping of children. Murder of hundreds of innocents, including full families.

For decades, we’ve been told that to look evil in its face was somehow unsophisticated. That to pretend evil away was an act of intellectual virtue. That to cater to evil, to concede to evil, was the pathway toward a better world. It was all a damned lie.

LOOK. There are those who proclaim the complexity of it all. Those people are fools.

What’s worse, they are enablers of evil, fellow travelers, justifiers of the worst human rights violations on the planet, from targeting civilians to hiding behind them.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. This was the worst week for Jews since the Holocaust.

Do not turn away.

LOOK. Look it in the face. I know that you will.

I know you will because I am a Jew, and because I am an American.

Americans love justice. Americans love good. Americans resonate to the book of Psalms, that says, “Hate evil, those who love the Lord.”

Hate evil. And fight it. Americans always have, and they always will.

I know we will.

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

CRIME LOG

MOORE CITIZENS FOR FREEDOM

MOORE COUNTY Remember that we live in the best country, the best state, and by far the best county.

MOORE COUNTY, WHAT A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE!

TUNE INTO The John and Maureen show

Sundays

1 - 2PM WEEB 990 AM 104.1 and 97.3 FM

x MOTTOLA, JANICE REBECCA, 51, W, F, 10/17/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Resisting Public Officer, DWI, $26,000 Secured x LIRA, SUSAN MARIE MCRAE, 43, W, F, 10/17/2023, Southern Pines PD, Felony Possession of Cocaine, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, Carrying Concealed Weapon, No Bond x GARNER, JERRY DENNIS, 46, W, M, 10/17/2023, Vass PD, Simple Assault, Break or Enter a Motor Vehicle, Felony Larceny, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, No Bond x TORRES, CELIA MERCEDES, 28, H, F, 10/16/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Felony Larceny, $10,000 Secured x MCNEILL, CAMERON WARDELL, 18, B, M, 10/16/2023, Southern Pines PD, Resisting Public Officer, Simple Possess Schedule VI CS, Carrying Concealed Gun, $10,000 Secured x JOSEPH, JENNIFER ANN, 56, W, F, 10/16/2023, Aberdeen PD, Shoplifting Concealment Goods, Possession of Stolen Goods/Property, Second Degree Trespass, Misdemeanor Larceny, Possession of Stolen Goods/Property, $2,000 Secured x MANESS, LARRY RAY, 52, W, M, 10/15/2023, Robbins PD, Possess Methamphetamine, Possess Schedule II CS, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, Assault on a Female, $13,000 Secured x HOWELL, ANTHONY RYAN, 37, B, M, 10/15/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Felony Possession of Cocaine, Maintain Veh/Dwell/Place CS, PWISD Cocaine, Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia, PWISD Marijuana, Fel Poss Synthetic Cannabinoid, Simple Possess Schedule VI CS, Simple Possession Schedule II CS, $52,000 Secured x COLLINS, SEAN MICHAEL, 48, W, M, 10/15/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Assault on a Female, $4,000 Secured

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Moore County:

Oct. 20 Movies by the Lake - The Little Mermaid | 6:45pm Movies on the big screen at Aberdeen Lake Park, with concessions available for purchase.

Oct. 21 Moore Philharmonic Orchestra Pancake Fundraiser | 8am 10am Show your support & join MPO for breakfast at Kickback Jack’s in Southern Pines. Purchase your tickets at the door for $10.

Moore County Farmers Market | 8am - 12pm In downtown Southern Pines at 156 SE Broad Street.

Live music from 10am - 12pm.

Fall-O-Ween | 11am - 2pm Join us at the Malcolm Blue Farm for fun carnival games, inflatables, pony rides, a climbing wall, and more! There will be food vendors and ice cream. We encourage everyone to wear their best costume! This event is for children ages 15 and under.

Fall Strings Showcase | 7pm Enjoy music from Bach to Broadway at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church in downtown Southern Pines. Entry is free and open to all to attend.

ing

North State Journal for Wednesday, October 18, 2023

3

SPORTS North Moore readies for Cummings showdown

By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal

PREP FOOTBALL — WEEK 10

MOORE COUNTY will play for a share of first place in the Mid-Carolina Conference when the Mustangs take on Cummings on Friday. The game, at Cummings, pits the Mustangs, 6-2 overall and 5-1 in the conference, against the 7-1 Cavaliers, who have a one-game conference lead at 6-0. A win will put them in a tie for the lead with one game to play.

The game pits two game-breaking running backs in North Moore’s Jakarey Gillis and Cummings’ Jonathan Paylor. Both teams rush for more than 330 yards per game while averaging fewer than 50 yards a game in passing.

Here’s a look at last week’s action and a look ahead to this Friday.

topped the century mark. Gillis carried 15 times for 102 yards and a score, while Nathan Rogers had nine carries for 148 and two touchdowns.

North Moore 42, Graham 6:

Union Pines 21, Hoke County 28:

The Mustangs blew out the Red Devils as a pair of running backs

Hoke County snapped a fourgame losing streak with a 28-21 win

Friday Oct. 20, 7:30 PM, North Moore Mustangs (6-2, 5-1) at Cummings Cavaliers (7-1,6-0) *Conference Game Friday Oct. 20, 7:30 PM, Pinecrest Patriots (8-0, 4-0) home vs.

Hoke County Bucks (3-6, 1-4) *Conference Game* Friday Oct. 20, 7:30 PM, Union Pines Vikings (2-6, 1-3) home vs.

Southern Lee Cavaliers (4-4, 1-3) *Conference Game*

over Union Pines in Friday’s homecoming game. The win earned the Bucks the Turkey Bowl trophy and a win over the Vikings for the third straight year.

Union Pines was led by Hayne Tobias, who had 102 yards receiving and two touchdowns. But the Vikings lost their third straight game to fall to 2-6 on the year, 1-3 in the Sandhills Conference. They host Southern Lee on Friday in the first of back-to-back home games to close out the regular season. The Vikings have won the last four over Southern Lee.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Nathan Rogers

Pinecrest 27, Scotland 17: Pinecrest continued its undefeated run, moving to 8-0 with a win at Scotland. Zymire Spencer ran for 104 yards and a touchdown and also caught a touchdown pass for the Patriots, while Elijah Melton had 82 receiving yards on 6 catches. The Patriots play a home game against Hoke County this week.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North Moore, football

HAL NUNN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The All Veterans parachute team lands at midfield prior to Hoke County’s homecoming game. The Bucks knocked off Union Pines to take the Turkey Bowl trophy.

Nathan Rogers is a senior running back and defensive lineman for the North Moore football team.

For the second straight week, a Mustangs ball carrier earns athlete of the week honors, after Rogers carried the ball nine times for 148 yards and two touchdowns in a 42-6 win over Graham. Rogers also added a two-point conversion in the game. Rogers is third on the team in rushing this season and second in touchdowns, but he led the way in both last Friday, setting the stage for a Mid-Carolina Conference showdown this week.

The 5-1 (6-2 overall) Mustangs will take on 6-0 (7-1 overall) Cummings with the conference lead at stake.

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obituaries

Demetrios "Jim" Mellios May 12, 1943 - October 7, 2023

Demetrios “Jim” Mellios born May 12, 1943, peacefully passed away on October 7, 2023.

He was born in Thessaloniki, Greece to Kleanthes and Efthicia Mellios. Jim was the oldest of three boys, and is survived by his brothers, Chris and Kosta Mellios. Jim attended the American University in Thessaloniki before moving to the United States in 1962. He attended college in NYC where he met and married Frances Polwin. Soon after they were married, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served as a CID. Upon his honorable discharge, he worked at AMP, Incorporated for 30 years. Through the years, Jim and Fran raised two children and welcomed four grandchildren. After his retirement in 1999, Fran and Jim moved to North Carolina and settled in Pinewild in 2001. Since his retirement, he worked at Pine Needles Golf Course in a variety of capacities.

Jim enjoyed Thursday morning breakfast, Friday golf, and weeknights playing cards. He was an avid reader, was a coin and stamp collector, and loved brewing his own beer. Most of all he cherished his loved ones. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, finding immense happiness in the presence of his wife, children, and grandchildren. His love and support were unconditional, and he always made time for those he held dear. Jim will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering loyalty, and zest for life. His legacy will live on through the memories he created and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to have known him.

He is survived by his wife, Fran; his son, Jeff Mellios and wife Jill; his daughter, Athena (Mellios) Sullivan and husband Chris; and his four grandchildren, Adriana and Nick Mellios and Delaney and Madelyn Sullivan. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Robert Darby

August 6, 1959 ~ October 7, 2023 Robert Scott Darby of Aberdeen passed away on Saturday, October 7, 2023, in UNC Healthcare Southeastern at the age of 64.

Robert was born in Moore County on August 6, 1959, to the late Kenneth and Mary Russell Darby. Robert was a graduate of Pinecrest High School and worked in local government. He enjoyed fishing and gardening as well as spending time with his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Rusty Darby.

He leaves behind his sister, Vauna Cagle; his brother Darrell Darby; his grandnieces, Vikki Darby and Linda Darby and her fiancee, Marvin Ross; his grandnephew, Richard Cagle; and extended family.

Mary Elizabeth "Libby" King Barnes July 5, 1950 - October 10, 2023

Mary Elizabeth “Libby” King Barnes, 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at FirstHealth Hospice House.

Libby was the daughter of Moe and Jane Gurley King.

Originally from Sanford, she moved to Aberdeen during her young adolescent years.

She loved the beach, fishing, and swimming, and enjoyed sitting on the porch in the evening to watch the deer and other wildlife. Some of her hobbies included board games, card games, jigsaw puzzles, as well as her love of reading.

Some of her favorite authors were Stephen King and James Patterson. She was an avid Tar Heel basketball fan who bled Carolina Blue till the day she passed.

She was always thinking of others and their needs and enjoyed donating to charities as well as Goodwill. Whatever she couldn’t use, she always wanted to donate it or give it to someone who could use it rather than throw it away.

She is survived by her husband, Freddie Barnes of Eastwood, daughter Connie Talley and husband Tommy, and granddaughter Katie Talley of Elon.

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Bobby Ray Clodfelter

June 1, 1934 - October 8, 2023 Bobby Ray Clodfelter, 89 of West End, passed away on October 8, 2023 at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.

Born on June 1, 1934 in Forsyth County, North Carolina to the late Turner B. Clodfelter and Martha L. Craver. Bobby worked for the American Tobacco Company as a buyer for over 40 years. He proudly served in the Korean War with the US Army. He was an avid golfer and also enjoyed traveling to both the beach and mountains.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Williams Clodfelter; and one brother, Thomas Clodfelter.

He is survived by two sons, Timothy Lee Clodfelter (Cynthia W.) and Brian Clodfelter (Julianne); one brother, Jim Clodfelter; also survived by four grandchildren, Benjamin (Amber), Rhett, Mason and Libby; and one great granddaughter, Isabelle.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Moore County Scholarship Fund in memory of Shirley Clodfelter- Sandhills Classical Christian School 1487 Rays Bridge Road Whispering Pines, NC 28327.

Michael James Beaumont

February 22, 1948 - October 10, 2023 Michael James Beaumont, 75 of Southern Pines, passed away peacefully at his home on October 10, 2023.

Born on February 22, 1948 in Queens, New York to the late Ernest and Caroline Beaumont. Michael proudly served the United States Army as a Captain, flying Huey’s (Rattlers 71) in the Vietnam War. He enjoyed riding his Harley any chance he had and was a proud member of the “HOG” group, with whom he formed close friendships. He was a loyal and generous friend to all.

The most important thing in his life was his family. He wanted nothing more than for his children and their families to have an abundance of happiness. They always knew he was there with anything that they needed and was able to provide practical life advice along with comic relief (fart jokes).

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Edmond Beaumont, Maryann Caccavale, Joseph Beaumont and Arthur Beaumont along with his beloved wife, Marilyn Nancy Beaumont; with whom he has been reunited with in heaven. This brings his family great peace.

He is survived by three daughters, Michelle Beaumont Ogens (Greg), Carolyn Cimadamore (Joseph) and Jennifer Eichfeld (Wes); one sister, Teresa Martens, sisterin-laws, Joyce Eder (Dan) and Mary Ellen Beaumont; also survived by eight grandchildren, Ryann (Anna), Tyler, Alex, Sean, Michael, Joey, Peyton, Nicole.

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