Chatham News & Record - July 27

C HATHAM NEWS & R E C O R D

Chatham County elections: Siler City mayor leads 2023 ballot

By Matt Mercer North State Journal

THE CONTESTS for Chatham County’s 2023 municipal elections are set.

Candidate ling wrapped up on Friday, July 21 and voters in Goldston, Pittsboro and Siler City will head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

One of the most-watched races will be for mayor of Siler City. This year’s contest features a rematch between incumbent Thomas “Chip” Price III and Donald Matthews.

In 2022, Price defeated Matthews in a three-person contest with 52% to 35% of the city’s vote.

“We’re really at a time when leadership matters,” Matthews told the News & Record earlier this month. “We need to be able to make all of this work together for the greater good of the community.

Matthews said at his campaign launch the town needs a complete “revitalization” in or-

der to prepare for new residents coming to Siler City and to improve services facilities and services for current residents.

“Our infrastructure needs to be completely redone. We should be looking and working with state legislature to get them to understand we need an investment in this community,” he said.

Price, for his part, has overseen impressive economic development and downtown revitalization in both his 10 years as a town commissioner and the past thirteen months as mayor.

Most notable is the Wolfspeed materials facility coming to the Chatham-Siler City Advanced Manufacturing Site. The project is expected to create a signi cant number of jobs in the region.

In a speech in April, he stated that Siler City is committed to economic growth both for its citizens and the surrounding regions.

“(I want) to continue the vision and work already started by the town board and sta ,” Price

Chatham County Board of Elections swears in its board members and chair

By Valeria Cloës Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — The Chatham County Board of Elections swore in the board members and chair for their two-year term at noon on Tuesday, July 18, at the Chatham County Board of Elections Ofce.

Chair Laura Heise (Democrat), Secretary Frank Dunphy (Republican) and member Mark Barroso (Democrat) have all served on previous terms while members Bob Tyson (Republican) and Erika Lindemann (Democrat) were sworn in for the rst time.

“I am happy to join the county Board of Elections,” Tyson, who retired from a database consultant job six years ago, said. “I want to help provide accessible and secure elections for the people of Chatham County.”

N.C. House Rep. Robert Reives II (D-Chatham) was present at the ceremony, leading the ve individuals in saying their oath.

In an email statement from Heise, she said she was rst elected as a member of the board in 2007, and 10 years later was appointed as chair by the governor at the time. In 2021 and 2023 she was elected by Gov. Roy Cooper.

“Chatham is growing, and so is the elections o ce,” Heise said. “We anticipate a move to a larger elections o ce space, perhaps by December 2023. We will be welcoming new sta as well — an additional elections specialist and a machine tech position. Next year, a presidential election year, will be a busy one!”

The rest of the board mem-

“The town should strive to ensure that citizens are treated fairly and equally. While there is always room for improvement, the town is currently ful lling its mission with the resources available.”

Siler City Mayor Chip Price

said during his 2022 campaign. “The town should also strive to ensure that citizens are treated fairly and equally. While there is always room for improvement, the town is currently ful lling its mission with the resources available,” he added.

In addition to the contest for mayor, four seats on the Siler City Board of Commissioners are up for grabs.

Three candidates are vy-

ing for one at-large seat on the board: incumbent commissioner Jay Underwood, Chandler Picot and Travis Patterson.

In Districts 2 and 3, incumbents Norma Boone and Curtis Brown are unopposed for reelection. District 4 incumbent William “Bill” Hiages, the current mayor pro tem, faces a challenge from Alec Hauser.

In Pittsboro, town commissioner Kyle Shipp was the only candidate to le for mayor and will be unopposed in November’s election.

Backed by outgoing mayor Cindy Perry, Shipp pledged to work with the community to lead Pittsboro towards a prosperous and sustainable future.

“Having served as Mayor for three terms, I wholeheartedly endorse Kyle as the ideal candidate to lead our town,” said Perry in an endorsement of Shipp.

Shipp said his plan focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and creating a business-friendly environment for both new and existing businesses, generating

quality employment opportunities for residents, protecting the town’s natural resources and delivering a ordable housing.

Six candidates led to run for three seats on Pittsboro’s Board of Commissioners.

Incumbents John Bonitz and J.A. “Jay” Farrell are running for reelection. They will appear on the ballot with Allen Wilson, John Foley, C.P. Stewart and Kali Korey.

The third municipality with elections this year is the town of Goldston – although none of their contests feature competitive races.

Jonathan Hensley will continue to serve as mayor as he was the only candidate to le for the seat of the southern Chatham County town.

Lisa Burke and Charlie Fields were the only candidates to le in Ward 2 and Ward 4 respectively.

Finally, three seats on the Goldston Gulf Sanitary District are on the ballot with three candidates: Danny Scott, Henry Kitchings and Ricky Beal. Absentee ballots for November’s election will be available by Friday, Oct. 6 and early in-person voting begins in Thursday, Oct. 19. The voter registration deadline for this year’s election is Friday, Oct. 13. Voters will also be required to show photo identi cation to cast a ballot.

CORA Food Pantry hosts its grand reopening after years of renovations, welcomes individuals back into its grocery store-style pantry

By Valeria Cloës Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — As Chatham

Literacy Executive Director Vicki Newell stepped into the recently renovated CORA Food Pantry warehouse, she said “Oh my gosh, this is amazing!” Newell took in the sight of fresh vegetables and fruits, canned goods, refrigerators lled with chicken, ham and other meat, all of which were neatly organized to resemble any grocery store in the area. Respect. That is what the renovations to the CORA building exempli ed, she said.

“This doesn’t make you feel like you have a need,” she said, surrounded by ripe bananas, broccoli and pumpkins.

CORA held its grand reopening event at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, where Executive Director Melissa Driver Beard said CORA has served over 230 families since

reopening its doors at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 17. In addition, according to CORA’s Impact Report for scal year from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, they have distributed 1.28 million meals, serving 10,220 individuals.

Timeline of CORA’s renovations

Though CORA only recently reopened its doors, the renovations and building process span back to 2015.

Development & Communications Director Rebecca Hankins said CORA’s Board of Directors asked the Chatham County Board of Commissioners for more funding to expand its facility in 2015. Three years later in November 2018, CORA had the ground breaking for the pantry warehouse, located to the left of the original building structure.

“It’s not only CORA sta and volunteers and board that care, the community has come out, donated, and allows us to do this work and do it well.”

Rebecca Hankins, CORA Food Pantry’s Development & Communications Director

VALERIA CLOËS | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

First row from left to right, Deputy Director Steve Simos, Director Pandora Paschal, and Election Specialist Chance Mashburn pose with Chatham Board of Election members (back row left to right) Erika Lindemann, Secretary Frank Dunphy, Mark Barroso, Bob Tyson, Chair Laura Heise, and N.C. House Rep. Robert Reives II (D-Dist.54).

Chatham News & Record www.chathamnewsrecord.com North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 Copyright 2023 North State Media LLC

Neal Robbins, Publisher publisher@northstatejournal.com 336-283-6305

NEWSROOM

Matt Mercer, Editor in Chief matt@northstatejournal.com

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The

BOE from page 1

bers are nominated by their local party, Director Pandora Paschal said. Their names are then passed along to the respective state parties and their names are sent State Board of Elections for approval. Once approved, they are sworn in, Paschal said.

Lindemann said being on the board is a welcome privi-

lege.

“By attending meetings of the Board over the past two years, I have come to appreciate the outstanding work of Board members, Elections O ce sta , and election workers in planning, organizing, conducting and securing each election,” she said. “Their spirit of service to the public is commendable, and I want to do all that I can as support their es-

sential work.”

Following the swearing-in ceremony, the board conducted their regular meeting where they appointed Dunphy as secretary of the board — His rst term on the Board of Elections was in 2020.

“I am honored to be enabled to participate in this wonderful American experiment of participatory governance,” he said in an email statement.

ON THE

The Immigrant Community Advisory Committee will have a meeting at 6 p.m. on Aug. 2 in the courtroom at City Hall in Siler City.

OTHER Silk Hope Ruritan Club, Cancellation Notice, July 29 Summer Spectacular — Due to unforeseen circumstances completely out of the control of the Silk Hope Ruritan Club, it has become necessary to cancel this year’s Summer Spectacular Event. We have exhausted every e ort to make the event go on but to no avail. We deeply regret that this decision had to be made but again it is completely out of our control.

The Chatham Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors will meet on Thursday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, 1192 U.S. 64 W. Business, Pittsboro (west side entrance), in the conference room. All meetings are open to the public. To be added to the agenda or for more information, please call 919-545-8440.

Chatham County dads are invited to participate in the Strong Fathers Parenting Program. The weekly virtual sessions resumed in July. Strong Fathers is for dads who are willing to work on ending the cycle of violence within their families. It is a 20-week program that focuses on parenting skills, understanding domestic violence and the e ects violence has on children, healthy parenting, self-care, being a good role model, generational impacts, and the developmental stages of children. More information can be found on the Strong Fathers website. Group sizes range from 8-12 men at a time, and there is a rolling admission so participants can join at any time. Questions may be directed to Deanna Manley at 984-500-4061 or at deannam@strongfathersprogram. org. Individuals may refer someone by completing the Online Referral Form. Information about fees can be found on the Strong Fathers website.

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Contact: advertising@chathamnr.com

Diabetes Prevention Program Information Session, Wednesday, August 2, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The Chatham County Public Health Department will present an informational session entitled Diabetes Prevention at the Goldston Public Library on Aug. 2 at 9:30 a.m. This free information session, led by one of the County’s nutritionists, will discuss type 2 diabetes and how to prevent it. — Arts & Crafts — Artes y Manualidades, Thursday, Aug. 3, 10 and 17, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Families with children ages 3+ (younger with an assisting adult) are invited to join sta at the Goldston Public Library for an arts and crafts session. The fun will be held in the E.M. Harris, Jr. Conference Room on Aug. 3, 10 and 17, starting at 10:30 a.m. — Las familias con niños de 3 años o más (menores con un adulto que les ayude) están invitadas a la Biblioteca Pública de Goldston para una sesión de artes y manualidades. La diversión se llevará a cabo en la sala de conferencia E.M. Harris, Jr. los días 3, 10 y 17 de agosto, a partir de las 10:30 a. m. — Welcome to Medicare, Monday, Aug.t 7, 10 a.m. to noon, The Goldston Public Library will host a Welcome to Medicare session on August 7 at 10 a.m. This session is speci cally for individuals approaching the age of 65 and is in collaboration with Chatham County Aging Services and the Chatham County Tax O ce. — Medicare 101, Monday, Aug. 7, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Chatham County Aging Services, the Chatham County Tax O ce, and Goldston Public Library will host a Medicare 101 session at the library on Aug. 7 at 1:30 p.m. This session is speci cally for individuals already 65 years of age and has questions about Medicare such as plan options, coverage, enrollment, etc. — Friday, June 9, and every Friday until August 11, 2 p.m. Families with children of all ages are invited to the library for a family movie in the E.M. Harris Jr. Conference Room. Participants are welcome to bring snacks, a blanket or pillow, and family and friends. This runs through Aug. 11; movies are rated G or PG. — Wednesday, Aug. 16, 6 to 8 p.m. Goldston Public Library and the Chatham County Parks & Recreation Department will host a series of activities on Wednesday, Aug. 16, for children of all ages to enjoy. Some recreational activities will include large group games, various yard games, and a scavenger hunt around the library. During the event, the Friends of the Goldston Public Library will be distributing school supplies to the children attending (as supplies last). Goldston Public Library is located at 9235 Pittsboro-Goldston Road, Goldston.

“Join

Guide

CCCC Building Bridges holds open house, students show o new

By Valeria Cloës Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — In the hot and humid mid-July air, Lizabeth Silva, student of Central Carolina Community College, climbed into a bright red seated forklift, maneuvering the machine under close instruction from forklift instructor Ben Rankin.

Silva picked up a wooden palette with orange tra c cones on top, reversed to the opposite end of one of the CCCC Chatham Main Campus’ parking lots and seamlessly zigzagged between a line of tra c cones back to where she started.

The crowd — made up of the 11-student cohort of the Building Bridges Program, CCCC sta members and other attendees — applauded as Silva rejoined her peers.

Silva said she joined the program because as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated trade eld, she wanted to learn how to do things herself.

“Because my mom always says, ‘If you want something done, you gotta do it yourself,’”

forklift skills

she said.

Student after student got on the forklift after Silva at the program’s open house, and demonstrated the skills they learned since the cohort started the program on Monday, July 17.

CCCC’s Building Bridges Program, spearheaded by Dean of Workforce & Continuing Education Programs Greg Singleton, aims to provide underemployed, unemployed and justice-involved individuals with a weeklong training where students gain career readiness soft skills, forklift certi cation and OSHA10 training, a workplace safety certi cation.

Before the forklift demonstration, Singleton and others involved with organizing, teaching and bringing this program to life addressed the latest cohort.

Singleton thanked each individual and organization who had a hand in making this program come to life, which included the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, and Carolina Handling and Chatham Media Group (the previous owners of the Chatham News & Record) for donating forklifts to the pro-

gram. “Now it comes into fruition,” Singleton said. “This really has energy.” While the program is intended to help its students acquire jobs at places like Wolfspeed, VinFast, the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, and so on, this program gives its students the skills to get into other elds.

Marica Tedder, workforce development program manager for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, said one of the students from the very rst cohort in January 2023 ended up using the career readiness skills and mechanical skills to open his own motorcycle repair shop.

“He felt like the forklift class opened his eyes to see outside of the box,” she said.

CCCC President Lisa M. Chapman said the students are putting in the hard work and are taking advantage of the program. Being only a week-long program, it allows for exibility; In addition to being enrolled in the Building Bridges Program, Je

Ganon said ve students in the cohort are “dual enrolled” in this program and semesters-long programs at CCCC.

Silva is enrolled in the Building Construction Technology degree and decided to take this program to supplement the skills she has been learning since the fall 2022 semester.

The program also has a partnership with Fifth Third Bank, Tedder said.

They schedule virtual quarterly workshops to teach students the basics of nancing, which can include how to open a bank account, purchase a home and budgeting, along with other nancial awareness skills, Tedder said.

Rankin, also safety coordinator for over 20 years at CCCC, said it means a lot to be able to help the students of this program.

“We want to serve people in a way that helps improve their life for them, their family and their community,” Rankin said. “And by doing this, and seeking out and developing ways to help underserved individuals is a good pathway to the future.”

Pittsboro Board of Commissioners formally approve Sanford merger agreement, explain splash pad closure

By Valeria Cloës Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO

—

The Pittsboro Board of Commissioners met at 7 p.m. on Monday, July 24, at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center to explain the splash pad closure, to revise utility rates for the 2023-2024 Fiscal Year and to approve the town’s water merger agreement with the City of Sanford.

Town Manager Jonathan Franklin said the town is having issues with the splashpad pumps staying primed.

“We believe air is getting into the supply lines,” he said. “A crew is slated to come and camera those lines this week or next.”

On Saturday, July 22, public information officer Colby Sawyer informed the town that the splashpad, located at Knight Farm Community Park, was closed.

“We want to reassure our community that the safety and well-being of our residents are our top priorities. We will not reopen the splash pad until we are confident that the issue has been thoroughly identified and resolved,” Sawyer said in a statement.

Pittsboro Parks and Recreation said the community would be updated as the issues are resolved to allow the splashpad to reopen.

“We believe air is getting into the supply lines. A crew is slated to come x those lines this week or next.”

Pittsboro Town Manager Jonathan Franklin

In addition, the commissioners unanimously approved to decrease the utility rates by 5% for the Fiscal Year 2023-24, effective Aug. 1. Franklin said this “means the average customer will see a 5% reduction in their monthly utility bill, on average. This reduction was possible due to the merger and the immediate cost savings.”

The commissioners also unanimously approved a Sanford Water Filtration Expansion Agreement between the Town of Pittsboro, the City of Sanford, the Town of Holly Springs, and the Town of Fuquay-Varina.

“The expansion will provide advanced treatment facilities at the Sanford plant,” Franklin said.

The commissioners also approved the merger agreement for the City of Sanford and the Town of Pittsboro. Every commissioner took the time to thank everyone involved in the agreement and the work that was put into it.

“This has been a long time in coming,” Commissioner and Mayor Pro Tem Pamela Baldwin said.

Finally, the commissioners also unanimously adopted a resolution proposing to change the mayors two-year term to a fouryear term. They set a public hearing meeting on this topic for Aug. 14 to hear community input.

This resolution will be formally voted on Sept. 11.

VISUAL VOICES

OPINION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

| JAN HUTTON

Oh, no, the ‘P’ word …

Every neighborhood seems to have its share of tug-of-wars regarding “This is how MY neighborhood should be.” Particularly in areas where neighborhoods have been built adjacent to more rural lands.

THE “P” WORD?

There’s a word I’m hesitant to use for fear of scaring people o — polarization. In fact, when I see the “P” word in a news story, I contemplate heading for the exit myself. It-is-just-such-apolarizing word. Viscerally, I nd myself reacting as I would to a charged four-letter word except … It doesn’t have four-letters.

Guess you might like a few more speci cs? OK. I will, however, stay far away from anything resembling politics — I don’t want you heading for the exits either. But, returning to the “P” word.

Every neighborhood seems to have its share of tug-of-wars regarding “This is how MY neighborhood should be.” Particularly in areas where neighborhoods have been built adjacent to more rural lands, there’s the age-old tussle between, “It’s my land and don’t tell me what to do with it!”, and “Hey, let’s discern the common needs in the “hood.” This is often where the “polarizing” word enters the picture.

In these stand-o s, unhappy words are exchanged. Yes! No! Escalation! Cutting dead those who don’t agree with you. And the di erent sides harden, becoming entrenched camps. Pretty soon, the behavior of being “downright neighborly” bounces o each faction as it would the highest grade Te on. (Frankly, I prefer my Te on in frying pans.)

Just outside the bounds of my covenanted neighborhood, but still, part of our larger community, is a family who were among the earliest home builders. Having grown up in a rural area, their values tended toward a deep desire for privacy, translated into trying to keep all pedestrians o the road running by their house. BUT the road led to a park. All cars could freely enter the park.

Yes, the last tiny bit of road was private, but owned by several other signatories, including the family intent on maintaining their privacy. The other homes stayed out of this years-long stando (and I can’t say I blame them!). Most pedestrians, bikers and runners, were rebu ed with cursing and o -the-leash biting dogs. In my case, after walking my pup there, a County Sheri came

EDITORIAL | BOB WACHS

to my door to apprise me I would be arrested if I did that again! (Arf, Arf!!) The matriarch of this family seemed to be central to their deeply held value of maintaining privacy. Several times, she gave me the “ nger” when driving-by while I was out walking on the street. I’m a peaceful sort, but unfortunately, in one instance, an accompanying neighbor returned the “ nger” which only made things worse. (Downright neighborly? Nope.)

Time passed. (It’s amazing how that happens.) Aging occurred in that family (and in me.) The biting dogs crossed the rainbow bridge and eventually other neighbors became free to walk, run, or bike that beautiful, wooded, bit of road. Such a sigh of relief. Very, very unexpectedly, I had an interaction with the now, older, matriarch. About 13-14 years had passed since the County Sheri and ”giving the nger” incidents. It was clear that she found my face familiar, but didn’t seem to place me among the former pantheon of folks trespassing on the street. (Whew!) While chatting, she made a comment about having more di culty doing tasks that had formerly been easy for her. Oh, I’ve so been there! Such an opportunity for bridging an old chasm. So, yes, I leaped onto that bridge. Ultimately, two good people (with di erent values) had a friendly conversation about aging and being kind to ourselves as our bodies and minds change.

After so many years of the ol’ polarization word, we approached “downright neighborly” in those few moments. Of course, it’s very possible that she might still recall my past “o enses.” But, heck, whatever the outcome, I’ll wave to her on the street and keep planting neighborly seeds, well, because “why not?”

By the way, ALL-season planting is highly recommended for “downright neighborly” seeds …

Jan Hutton is a retired hospice/hospital social worker who believes in living life with heart and humor. She has happily lived in Chatham for 20 years.

Life, like back porch, means taking good and bad

Throwing open the doors to the porch I was greeted by the song of a quartet of birds, a gentle morning breeze even in the midst of our heat wave of the day, the early rays of the sunshine … and a nasal announcement that Pepé Le Pew had crossed the yard.

SOME FEW YEARS AGO

Better Half and I had a screenedin back porch added to our humble dwelling. It started out to be a deck but somewhere between starting and nishing, we had the inspiration of why not make it a screen porch.

The logic to that was, I thought, very logical — namely we could enjoy the bene ts of the outdoors — fresh air, sights, sounds and so forth — without the down side, namely the bugs and skeeters and gnats. So, the deed was done.

Since then, that room has gotten plenty of use. It’s an outdoor dining room, a place for co ee and the newspaper, site of lots of good naps in the metal glider that once graced my grandma and grandpa’s porch, later handed down to my folks. It’s at the top of the list of my favorite rooms in the house, somewhere in the mix with the study and the Necessary Room.

Another feature that makes it really nice is that a few months ago, the deal Bank and We struck was kaput. The 30-year pound of esh arrangement was over. Bank was like Elvis, namely having left leaving the building. I have no complaints with the deal. The good folks who built our place did a ne job. And in addition, the deal served as a great math lesson for me. I learned that because of something called compound interest we paid back about three times what Bank loaned us.

But that’s okay. Both Better Half and I were away at work, plus we didn’t have any usable skills to help and the folks who built the place probably would have charged us triple for just getting in the way.

So, after all is said and done, it’s been a good deal.

The screen porch I mentioned earlier came later. And, as noted, it’s been great. But in addition to the uses, I’ve also learned something from it about life. And that is that the best laid plans

of mice and men sometimes — often, in fact — can and do go astray.

The other morning my mind was made up to take the morning paper and a cup of stout black co ee out to said glider. Throwing open the doors to the porch I was greeted by the song of a quartet of birds, a gentle morning breeze even in the midst of our heat wave of the day, the early rays of the sunshine … and a nasal announcement that Pepé Le Pew had crossed the yard.

Maybe that’s why the family pooch barked all night.

From time to time some folks have told me they’ve never smelled the presence of a skunk. Then they’ll ask, “What does it smell like?”

All I can say is that when a skunk or two has been by and done their skunk thing, you’ll know. Anyway, it made me realize life, of course, is like that. Sometimes the unique smell of a skunk of some sorts will come along and interrupt our good plans, ideas and thoughts, such as the midst of what’s going on now with social unrest. So, I’m pretty sure the best response to what’s going on — as well as visits from skunks — is to give things a little time, pay attention and do the right thing but don’t get your underwear in a wad, wait for a better day and go inside for the co ee and newspaper. And give Pepe and all the other skunks lots of room.

Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and retired long-time managing editor of the Chatham News/Chatham Record, having written a weekly column for more than 30 years. During most of his time with the newspapers, he was also a bi-vocational pastor and today serves Bear Creek Baptist Church for the second time as pastor.

COLUMN

The two groups in Philadelphia

ON THE WEEKEND of June 29 – July 2, two di erent groups of activists gathered at the Marriott in downtown Philadelphia. One group spent the majority of the weekend outside the building protesting and chanting while the other group spent the weekend inside the building listening and learning. One group drew chalk drawings of male private parts and curse words on the pavement outside while those inside took copious notes as they listened to educators, politicians, in uencers and historians share their expertise. And nally, the group outside shouted menacing epithets, harassing the other group as they entered the hotel to engage in a weekend of constructive dialogue.

Clearly these two groups have di erent ways of manifesting themselves and their objectives. The group inside the building is called “Moms for Liberty’’ and the event under protest was the 2nd annual “Joyful Warrior Summit.”

As a proud member of Moms for Liberty, I hold a biased perspective. I am not only a member, I founded the Chatham County Moms for Liberty chapter in March 2022. Obviously, I am committed to their mission, which is why I nd myself equally dumbfounded and dismayed as I listen to and observe the way in which certain activist groups distort and misrepresent our organization. When the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) goes so far as to add Moms for Liberty to its list of “anti-government extremist” groups, is it any wonder that organizations like MoveOn.org, Act Up and the Young Communist League are put on notice to start gathering and busing paid activists to protest our events? No doubt, we have the SPLC to thank for the unhinged protestors thrusting their middle ngers in our faces every day as we arrived and departed the conference. I think it’s fair to say that both groups could agree that “Moms are Number 1,” so we chose to believe that’s what holding up those ngers in front of a group of moms meant. If nothing else, they were passionate about showing us that single nger.

Moms for Liberty’s expressed mission is “ ghting for the survival of America by unifying, educating and empowering parents to defend their parental rights at all levels of government.” So when we hear the mainstream media and all its sycophants parrot the same talking points that we are “racist, fascist, homophobic, bigots,” please forgive us if we struggle to piece together the disconnect between who we know we are versus who they think we are. How did these two groups nd themselves in such vastly di erent realities? Ironically, the answers seem to be tied to the very reason Moms for Liberty was founded in the rst place. To be clear, I have no doubt these protestors believe they are saving the free world by upholding their sincerely held convictions. What concerns me

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

is the information upon which they are building these convictions. After all, what exactly were they protesting? Parents learning about our country’s history and how it can help us understand where we are today? How to navigate legal challenges when advocating for our family? What it takes to run for and be on a school board? Had just one of the protestors displayed a sincere curiosity to join us inside the building, as they were welcome to do, they would have learned that these were just some of the many strategy session topics o ered at the summit to help x our broken education system.

Moms for Liberty is known for the e ective use of Freedom of Information Act requests to push the school districts to disclose information they would otherwise shield from the public. Subsequently, they have unearthed alarming evidence supporting the theory that school boards and administrators are more interested in the indoctrination of our children than their education. They care more about their government agenda than what parents have to say. Turns out, as reading and math scores are plummeting all around the country, public school-sponsored social justice and political activism are on the rise. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion budgets are exploding while teachers lack the necessary resources for basic reading and math instruction. Clearly, this is not a funding problem, it’s a priorities problem.

Yet, studies show, 73% of Americans want schools to get back to teaching the basics. The quest to return to basics is the beating heart of the Moms for Liberty movement. The group inside that hotel are only asking for the pendulum to move more to the middle. We are simply asking to restore some balance to a system that has long been veering o into an agenda prioritizing “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” over teaching fundamental reading and math skills.

Politics – left or right – should be removed from our children’s education. At no time in human history have government-run schools ended well for society as a whole. Children shouldn’t be taught what to think, but how to think. When I witness these groups protesting what they believe to be true because of what they have been taught to think in their schools or mainstream media, I’m reminded of the Orwellian doublethink slogans generated from The Ministry of Truth being broadcast throughout the city in the dystopian novel, 1984: “War is Peace! Freedom is Slavery! Ignorance is Strength!”

Here is the real truth: Our schools belong to both groups who showed up at the Philadelphia Marriott. Moms for Liberty seeks to hold our schools accountable for the sake of all children. This way none of us are at risk of having government propaganda intrude on the sacred responsibility of parenting our children.

Chatham County Democrats oppose photo ID law

THE CHATHAM COUNTY DEMOCRATIC

PARTY believes that all eligible US Citizens should have equal and equitable access to the polls. This is a fundamental principle upon which democracy rests. Unfortunately, new rules requiring a photo ID to vote violate that fundamental principle. There is clear evidence of a racial bias in the new rules. The most common form of photo ID is a driver’s license.

According to data available on the NC Board of Elections website, 91.6% of white voters in Chatham County have a driver’s license, compared with 81.2% of Black voters. Although other forms of photo ID are acceptable, voters who do not have a driver’s license will be required to find a way of getting to a facility (BoE office, DMV) where they can obtain an ID, incurring travel expenses and, likely requiring them to take time away from work.

The real intent of these rules appears to be voter suppression. The rule requiring that a copy of a photo

ID be included with absentee-by-mail ballots makes this patently clear. Although a copy of a photo ID is required, the photo is not used to verify the voter’s identification. Many older and low-income voters may not have a copier at home, making it difficult to comply with this new requirement. Further, without explanation, overseas voters are exempted from this rule. The same rules should apply to everyone. Finally, the new rules will place extraordinary burdens on poll workers. The process of comparing photo IDs to the person presenting to vote will increase the time required to vote, likely resulting in long lines. Lower-income workers and others living in poverty will be especially burdened by these delays. Many may decide they cannot afford the time it takes to vote. But, then again, perhaps that is the objective.

Susan J. Blalock, Chair, Chatham County Democratic Party

COLUMN ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

Who were the bu alo soldiers?

“BUFFALO SOLDIER, IN THE HEART OF AMERICA.”

Bob Marley’s distinctive song immediately came to mind when I learned that July 28 is National Bu alo Soldier Day — instituted in 1992 by Gen. Colin Powell at the dedication of a memorial in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Like many suburban white kids of my generation, I thought Marley was cool; I had no idea about the political subtext of the reggae star’s song.

Following the Civil War, in which hundreds of thousands of Black soldiers fought for the Union, Congress established the rst all-Black regiments in a peacetime army. Initially, these men could only serve west of the Mississippi due to racist prohibitions. Many Black soldiers fought Native Americans for land as the country looked to expand westward. This is the tragic irony — recently freed men enlisted by a still-racist government to take the land and liberty away from a di erent race of people.

Certain sources claim that the term bu alo soldier was bestowed by Native Americans, like the Apache, out of respect for the Black soldiers. It’s far more likely that the term originated as a derogatory reference to the soldiers’ physical characteristics, including the color of their skin and texture of their hair. In letters from the late 19th century, when the socalled Indian Wars were fought, Black soldiers referred to the Native Americans with the same racial epithets common among white Americans. Racism diminishes all of us.

Eventually, bu alo did become a moniker of pride; the animal was even included on the insignia of certain regiments. Bu alo soldiers served our country into the 20th century, including abroad in both world wars. They were also the rst uno cial national park rangers — “uno cial” because the National Park Service hadn’t been established. But Black soldiers helped build the roads that made travel possible for more Americans.

Today, the soldiers are remembered in the Bu alo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, Texas, as well as at an exhibit in the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C., which notes “(their) legacy is a complex one and raises challenging questions about the relationship of the soldiers to the government they served as well as to the native peoples they fought.” I do not wish to be read as glossing over the history of racism and imperialism like I did as an undergraduate.

But I have been moved by reading the biographies of the 19 bu alo soldiers awarded the Medal of Honor before the turn of the 20th century. Many of these men overcame prejudice to distinguish themselves in service to our country. For example, Henry Johnson was born a slave in 1850. He enlisted in the calvary at 16 and rose to the rank of sergeant in 1879. Isaiah Mays was part of the guard for the U.S. Army paymaster. When his caravan was ambushed, Mays crawled over 2 miles with an injured leg to the nearest town for help.

“If you know your history,” sang Marley about the bu alo soldiers, “then you would know where you coming from.” July 28 is a good day to take Marley as his word and discover more about these men and their complicated legacy through the websites of these museums or, even better, making a visit.

CORA from page 1

However it took an additional three years, partly because of the Covid-19 pandemic, to continue construction of the pantry warehouse, spanning from February to June 2021, Hankins said.

The most recent renovations and construction to CORA’s administrative o ces located in the original building structure started in January 2023 and nished at the end June 2023, she said.

For two weeks, the nishing touches were made: arranging furniture, setting up the pantry, organizing the warehouse, and starting to welcome families back into the facility since before the pandemic, she said.

Since the pandemic, CORA has done curbside pickup, where families still got to choose from a variety of foods, but did not have a grocery store-style experience. But it does now.

What to expect when you walk in

For any individual or families looking to use CORA’s services for the rst time, they walk in and are greeted by a front desk worker who will ask them to ll out a questionnaire. It asks for the individual’s name, phone number, how many people will be fed by the pantry, food allergies and, if comfortable, income and demographic information, Hankins said.

“As an organization that relies on grants, having that information is very useful,” she said. “So that’s what we do — It’s a very quick intake process.”

After that, the individual or family is given a CORA card, which looks like a business card, that identi es the individual so they don’t have to go through the intake process each time they come in.

The individual is given a number and waits in the lobby for the until their number is called to go into the pantry, she said. For families coming in, the lobby now has a children’s area with books a toy shopping cart and comfy seats.

Children can take a book home every time they come in, Cindi Ebert, president of CORA’s Board of Directors, said.

Once a person’s number is called, they can proceed into the pantry area — accompanied by a volunteer the whole way — where they grab a red shopping cart and go through the aisles, picking their allotted number of produce and goods.

A caring community

“I think what we have here is really a re ection of a community that cares,” Karen Howard, Chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners, said in the grand reopening initial remarks.

Hankins agreed with Howard’s statement and said she wants the community to know that CORA is here to help.

According to the 2022 Census, 12% of people in Chatham County are in poverty. Thus, Hankins said someone’s neighbor could be food insecure without their neighbor knowing.

“It’s not only CORA sta and volunteers and board that care,” Hankins said. “The community has come out, donated, and allows us to do this work and do it well.”

CORA Choice Shopping is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday through Thursday, and Drive Through is open from 10 a.m. to noon on Fridays.

For more information on CORA, visit its website at www.corafoodpantry.org

MOSAIC aims to bring urban lifestyle to Chatham Park

The 44-acre development will include over 200 residential units

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

PITTSBORO – Chatham Park is an approximately 7,100 acre planned development district approved by the Town of Pittsboro in 2015 that, according to its approved master plan, will include up to 22 million square feet of non-residential development, 22,000 residential units, at least 1,320 acres of open space and 667 acres of park land and will feature a variety of land uses such as dwellings, parks, open space, entertainment and commerce. Chatham Park is also located on the northside of Pittsboro, and is touted as having easy access to both Raleigh and Durham.

Within the Chatham Park PDD is a $180 million, 44-acres, mixed-use

community called MOSAIC.

Developed by Kirk Bradley, the CEO of Lee-Moore Capital, MOSAIC will be an urban-style development that is a blend of retail, o ce and residential that will serve as the gateway to Chatham Park.

The MOSAIC’s website describes itself as “An entertainment and lifestyle destination alive with experience and stocked with interaction. A welcoming community with sustainable design, inventive programming and natural environs. MOSAIC’s seamless blend of retail, o ce and residential creates daytime energy while restaurants, events and impromptu gatherings spark evening vigor.”

In addition, the website says that MOSAIC will include 200,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, 120-key Hampton Inn & Suites, 88,000 square feet of o ce space, 165 apartment homes through The Guild Apartments, 40 condos through Tessera at MOSAIC, entertainment venues and education facilities.

Current listed tenants include Greek Kouzina, Jersey Mike’s Hops & Berry Taproom, O‘Ya Cantina, People’s Co ee, Town Hall Burger, Town Hall Italian, Lux Nail Salon, CMG Financial Group, Harris & CO Insurance, refuel Market, Tasu Asian Bistro, Hampton Inn and Suites and UNC Health Urgent Care.

MOSAIC’s website also lists that they are looking to add a theater, bakeries, sweet shops, tness venues, outdoor out tters, clothing and shoe boutiques, medical and dental practices, beauty and soft goods shops and service providers.

MOSAIC also o ers live outdoor events including concert and movie series, farmers market, and specialty nights such as Thursday jazz nights and Wellness Wednesdays every week on the Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons, the MOSAIC’s event lawn.

Initial construction began in 2021 and all 19 of MOSAIC’s planned buildings are scheduled to nish construction in 2024.

Wolfspeed CEO appointed to NC A&T University Board of Trustees

By Gri n Daughtry North State Journal

WOLFSPEED CEO Gregg

Lowe o cially joined the Board of Trustees at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University last week. NC A&T is the nation’s No. 1-ranked Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

“I am excited to join the NC A&T Board of Trustees and to serve their students and community,” said Lowe in a statement. “Wolfspeed rmly believes in the power of students to change the world, and I’m eager to further strengthen our relationship while working together to usher in the

next generation of scientists, technologists and innovators.”

Wolfspeed and NC A&T have combined to advance several initiatives to bolster the state’s workforce. In 2020, Wolfspeed committed $4 million over ve years to the HBCU, the single largest donation in the university’s history at that time to create the Wolfspeed Endowed Scholars Program, according to information provided by the company.

The two entities worked together to establish comprehensive education and training curricula and cutting-edge research and innovation programs. Wolfspeed says the partnership opened opportunities for undergraduate

Hours: Mon.–Fri. 11am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm, Closed Sun.

“NC A&T is proud of our con- tinued strong partnership with Wolfspeed and the appointment of CEO Gregg Lowe to our Board of Trustees.”

Harold L. Martin, Chancellor

and graduate credentials in silicon carbide semiconductor manufacturing, as well as training and career advancement programs for

From Chatham County Sheri ’s O ce

On July 14, Joseph Adam Jamal Alexander, 28, of 3995 Jones Ferry Road, Chapel Hill, was arrested by Investigator Cody DeViney for resisting a public o cer. He was issued a written promise to appear in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro on Aug. 2.

On July 14, Demetric Antonio McRae, 37, of 67 Harrington Lane, Siler City, was arrested by Deputy Jonathan Frazier for failure to appear per release order and hit/ run/failure to stop at property damage accident. He was issued a $4,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Robeson County District Court in Maxton on Aug. 1.

On July 15, Gary Lee Louk, 54, of 1499 Haw Branch Road,

existing semiconductor manufacturing workers.

Wolfspeed subsequently announced earlier this year the continuation of this collaboration with their intent to apply for CHIPS and Science Act funding to build a new research and development facility on NC A&T’s campus. The R&D facility will be focused on silicon carbide to support the next generation of advanced compound semiconductors.

“NC A&T is proud of our continued strong partnership with Wolfspeed and the appointment of CEO Gregg Lowe to our Board of Trustees,” said Chancellor Harold L. Martin, Sr. “Gregg’s lead-

ership and extensive science and technology background will serve as a vital resource for our prestigious university. I look forward to working with him as we provide new opportunities for our students to pursue the next generation of careers in the green economy, drive innovation and look to solve the problems of both today and tomorrow.”

Lowe was one of four new appointees to become a university trustee. Also joining the Board of Trustees were Gina Loften, Jini Thornton and Jasmine Amaniampong as the student representative. Lowe, Loften and Thornton will serve four-year terms on the board.

Sanford, was arrested by Deputy Reid Allshouse for possession of rearm by a felon-true bill of indictment. He was issued a $10,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Moore County Superior Court in Carthage on July 31.

On July 16, Erik Velasquez-Gayia, 31, of 4865 Old U.S. 1, Moncure, was arrested by Deputy Richard Gunter for false report to police station and obstructing justice. He was issued a written promise to appear in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro on July 26.

On July 16, Victor Lee Washington Jr., 37, of 89 Henley Road, Chapel Hill, was arrested by SSgt. Michael Cox for felony stalking. He was held on a 48-hour domestic violence hold and is scheduled to appear in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro

on July 17.

On July 16, Leonard Maurice Poole, 41, of 2200 Wise Place, Durham, was arrested by Deputy Joseph Scott for breaking and entering a motor vehicle, false pretenses/ swindle/con dence game and possession of stolen property. He was a $1,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro on July 19.

On July 16, Annie Lane Mashburn, 35, no address, was arrested by Deputy Brooke Roberts for resisting a public o cer, rst degree trespass enter/remain, communicating threats, and assault on a government o cial. She was issued a $10,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Chatham County District Court in Pittsboro on August 2.

ARREST BLOTTER

COURTESY PHOTO

The MOSAIC development in Chatham Park is shown in this courtesy photo.

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e nal deadline for all grant applications is Sept. 15, but don’t wait to apply. Applications submitted prior to the early-bird deadline on Aug. 15 will be entered to win one of ve $100 Visa gi cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more informaiton or to apply!

HELEN ‘FAYE’ PHILLIPS FITTS

April 5, 1931 ~ July 21, 2023

Helen “Faye” Phillips Fitts, 92, of Siler City, passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023, at her home.

The funeral was held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at Rives Chapel Baptist Church, where she was a member, with Rev. John Hackney presiding.

Faye was the daughter of Barney and Ellen Hilliard Phillips. She worked at Sweaters USA. After retiring, she managed WesCare Senior Adult Daycare. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Robert Fitts Jr.; and brother, Archie Phillips and wife Betty.

Faye is survived by her children, William (Billy) Fitts III and wife Amy, Johnny Fitts (Amy Jo Hussey), both of Siler City, Patti Faye Hargis and husband Alan of Dunn; sister Mattie Lee Elkins of Goldston; ve grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, Flowers are accepted or donations can be made to Rives Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 4338 Rives Chapel Church Road, Siler City, N.C. 27344. Condolences may be o ered online at www. joycebradychapel.com.

LAURA CHRISTINE TEAGUE MOORE

July 22, 1943 ~ July 18, 2023

Laura Christine Teague Moore, 79, of Seagrove, passed away on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Moore Regional Hospital.

The graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 21, 2023, at Smyrna Church, where she was a member, with Rev. Farrell Hussey presiding.

Laura was the daughter of James and Mary Ola Brown Teague. She owned and operated Pot Luck Pottery. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dexter Wayne “John” Moore; one brother; and two sisters.

Survivors include her children, Dexter Moore and wife Tonya of Siler City, Amy Harmon and husband Tripp of Pittsboro, Riley Moore of Antioch, Tenn.; stepdaughter, Cathy Moore of Bennett; sisters, Mildred Moore of Seagrove, Lois Richardson and husband Jack of Seagrove, Ginny Rushing and husband Larry of Mt. Croghan, S.C., and Ruby Bruns Deaton, of Chattanooga, Tenn.; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

In lieu of owers, donations can be made to Smyrna Church. 203 Smyrna Church Road, Robbins, N.C. 27325. Condolences may be o ered online at www. joycebradychapel.com.

ANN JONES

JALISA

December 26, 1989 ~ July 8, 2023

Jalisa Ann Jones, 33, of Greenville, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at ECU Medical Center in Greenville.

The funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Knotts Funeral Home with burial following at Westwood Cemetery.

CLARA ESTHER (BROWN) CLEGG

April 7, 1930 ~ July 16, 2023

Ms. Clara Esther (Brown) Clegg, 93, of Sanford, passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at her residence.

The funeral service was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 26, at First Calvary Baptist Church with burial following in Lee Memory Gardens.

MILEE (BALDWIN) SHAW

June 10, 1939 ~ July 17, 2023

Mrs. Milee Shaw, 84, of Pittsboro, passed away at Piedmont Medical Center on Monday, July 17, 2023.

The funeral was held at noon on July 24, 2023, at Hamlet Chapel C.M.E. Church with burial following in the church cemetery.

THOMAS EARL STEWART

March 11, 1960 ~ July 15, 2023

Thomas Earl Stewart, 63, of Lanham, Maryland, formerly of Moncure, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023.

Services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home, Sanford.

William Curtis Elmore

December 12, 1932 ~ July 17, 2023

William Curtis Elmore, 90, of Siler City passed away Monday, July 17, 2023, at the Jim & Betsy Bryan Hospice Home in Pittsboro.

Mr. Elmore was born in Chatham County on December 12, 1932, son of the late Millard C. and Lucy Senath Elmore. Curtis served his country faithfully in the United States Army. He went on to work for many years as a salesman with Napa Auto Parts. He was an avid horseman and a devoted caretaker to Bobbie. Curtis was a member of Mt. Vernon Global Methodist Church of Siler City. In addition to his parents, Curtis was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 64 years, Barbara Lemons Elmore; a sister Mary Lois Wilson; and brothers, Jimmy and Earl Elmore.

Mr. Elmore is survived by his son Curtis Randall Elmore of Siler City; daughter Sandra E. Siler and husband Billy of Siler City; grandchildren, Jessica Elmore Reinert and husband Derek, Amy Hayes, and Emily Armstrong; great-grandchildren, Hayley and Madison Hayes, Chloe Page, Nicholas and Tessa Armstrong and Riley Reinert.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Smith & Buckner Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Chatham Memorial Park with Rev. Jason Dickerson o ciating.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to Liberty Home Health and Hospice or UNC Hospice.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hannah, Scott, Brandy, Brian, Caroline, Ashley and Katie with Liberty Home Health and Hospice, as well as Danielle, Brooke, Ester and Scott with UNC Hospice.

Online condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is serving the Elmore family.

Edna Ruth Lane Moore

August 4, 1931 - July 18, 2023

Edna Ruth Lane Moore, 91, of Castle Hayne entered eternal rest in her heavenly home July 18, 2023, after a lengthy illness.

Born Aug. 4, 1931, in Edenton, N.C., she grew up in Hertford and graduated from Perquimans High School.

On June 29, 1952, she married William “Bill” Moore and spent the next 20 years traveling with the Air Force. The family rst moved to Goldsboro in 1959 and later returned in 1971 to retire from the military.

While raising her family, she became church secretary at Love Memorial Baptist Church, where she served for more than 10 years. She was a very loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She was an “extra mom” to many young people over the years and treated everyone like family. She was a perpetual student and often self-taught. From playing the organ and piano at church, she was creative and artistic, sewing clothes and taking advantage of overseas assignments to Scotland and Japan, where she studied ower arranging and punch pictures, the latter including achieving teacher certi cation. She was also certi ed in cake decorating. Everything she learned or acquired, she used to encourage others and could often be found serving others in her church and community.

She was predeceased by the love of her life, her husband of 68 years, William Moore, her parents, William and Esther Lane, sister Neva Joyce Lane, and brother Phillip Lane.

Survivors include her three children, Phyllis Moore Van Dyke (husband, Ron) of Goldsboro; Chris Moore (Alice) of Raleigh; and Glenda Moore White (Bill) of Rocky Point; sister Joanne White of Edenton; seven grandchildren, Lane Moore, Krista D’Amico, Bub White (Katie), Morgan Byrd (Ethan), Joshua, Jared and Savannah Moore; and four great-grandchildren, Brooks White, Levi Byrd, Emmi Rose White and Eli Byrd; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Sunday, July 23, at 3 p.m. at Sandy Branch Baptist Church Cemetery, in Bear Creek, N.C.

You may o er online condolences at www. shallottefunerals.com.

Arrangements handled by White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte, N.C.

Milton Franklin Roberts

April 30, 1961 ~ July 19, 2023

Milton Franklin Roberts of Chapel Hill died July 19, 2023 from complications related to liver failure. He was born April 30, 1961 in Montgomery County, N.C. to Woodrow and Lois (Shore) Roberts. He graduated from West Montgomery High School in 1979. He attended Stanly Community College where he received an Associate Degree in Biomedical Engineering Technology, which led him to pursue a career in the repair and preventative maintenance of medical equipment.

Milton’s biomedical jobs led him to St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, S.C., where he met his eventual wife, Nancy. Next, he worked at Baptist Hospital in Columbia, S.C., while his wife attended Nurse Anesthesia School. Milton and Nancy settled down in Chapel Hill, where they each found jobs in their respective elds at UNC Hospitals. Milton retired after 26 years of service, during which he touched the lives of numerous employees across the hospital campus.

Chapel Hill became Milton and Nancy’s home, where they raised their two beautiful daughters, Madison and Morgan. Milton was a loyal Tar Heel fan who frequently attended UNC basketball and football games. He also enjoyed exploring his community through food; He loved fresh produce from the farmers market and eating at local restaurants, but he loved his wife’s cooking most of all. He loved listening to various types of music, occasionally making his own by playing guitar and singing (when he thought no one was listening). Milton also enjoyed vacationing with his family and friends; He especially loved trips to the beach during the winter. Milton had a unique sense of humor that brought laughter and smiles to everyone who knew him wherever he went.

Milton is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Roberts and Lois (Roberts) Morrison; and his nephew Richie Parsons. He is survived by his wife of 32 years Nancy; his daughters, Madison and Morgan; his sisters, Gail (Jimmie) Robinson and Terecia (Ronnie) White; his brother Mickey Roberts; his nieces and nephews; and his many dear friends. He was so loved by many and will be missed.

Milton was cremated and did not want a formal memorial service. However, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Condolences can be made through www. walkersfuneralservice.com.

Milton’s family would like to thank the healthcare sta that took care of him at both UNC Hospitals and Duke University Hospitals. Please consider becoming an organ donor to help others like Milton.

Robert ‘Bob’ A. Babcock

Robert (Bob) A. Babcock, 88, died on July 18, 2023. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and was the son of Arthur and Elizabeth Babcock. He graduated from LaPorte High School and then joined the U.S. Navy. He served primarily in the Paci c theater. He enrolled in Ball State University following the completion of his naval career. He met his wife Patricia while a student. They married in 1958. Robert graduated with a degree in business administration in 1960. His business career started as an insurance adjuster. He and a co-worker then decided to open their own rm after a few years of working with two other rms. He and his partner had a successful corporation for thirty years until his retirement. He was active in Boy Scouts as a Scout Master and in the Blue Goose Adjusters Association. He was the chair of the Administrative Board of the Chesterton United Methodist Church. He moved to North Carolina upon retirement. This enabled him to be closer to the grandchildren and enjoy the experiences of a new state with his wife. Travel to many states and other countries was a source of pleasure. Survivors include his wife Patricia and children Brett, Richard (Dr. Mary) and Laura (Dr. John) Haselow, grandchildren, Rachel, Jared, Mitchell Haselow and Trevor and Alana Babcock.

Predeceased are a daughter, Beth, and his parents, Arthur and Elizabeth Babcock. Private services will be held at the Smith and Buckner Funeral Home.

Bob’s family would like to express their gratitude for the professionalism and compassion given by both the Liberty Skilled Care and Hospice units.

Carolyn Williams Morris

Carolyn Williams Morris, 73, of Beaufort, passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023, at her home in Beaufort.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

A devoted wife and grandmother, Carolyn found joy in creating a beautiful home, nurturing her many friendships and most of all, enjoying the love of her family. Carolyn cherished being a grandmother of four and created fun and precious memories her family holds close. The grandchildren loved going to Beaufort to visit “Gee” knowing they would enjoy adventures and special treats she created just for them. She was the center of her family and will be missed dearly by her husband and two daughters. Small in stature, Carolyn was quick-witted and mighty with her generous heart. She had many creative talents as evident in her professional career as a hair stylist, interior decorator and as a life-long lover of fashion. She was an advocate for the well-being of animals and for preserving the planet for future generations. She also had a love for travel and recently enjoyed a bucket list trip exploring Europe with family.

Carolyn was a member of the Sweet Potato Queens in Beaufort and loved dancing and listening to live music. She treasured all the friendships she’d made over the years and lived by the motto “party like there is no tomorrow, because today might be your last.” Her outlook on life was an inspiration to those who knew and loved her.

Her family honors her memory in sweet ways each day, and will always cherish her spirit around them as they hold her close in their heart. It is with deepest love and gratitude that her family accepts the love and support of family and friends.

She is survived by her husband Billy Morris of Beaufort; two daughters, Ashley Morris Marshburn and husband, Kyle of Wilmington, Lauren Morris Hill and husband, Jason of Wilmington; four grandchildren, Ethan, James, Charlie, and Beau; two brothers, Brent Williams of Siler City, Don Williams and wife, Phyllis of Chapel Hill; and sister-in-law, Jeanie Williams of Clarksville, V.A.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Mary Williams and her brother, Steve Williams.

In lieu of owers, donations may be made to: The American Cancer Society at https:// www.cancer.org/donate.html or PAWS of Carteret at www. pawsofcarteret.org

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, N.C.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of SANDRA ANITA SHARPE, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of October, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 27th day of June, 2023.

Lois Smith Branson, Administrator of

The Estate of Sandra Anita Sharpe

648 Poe Road

Siler City, North Carolina 27344

MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850

Jy6,Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of ERNEST LEE PENDERGRAPH late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of October, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 28th day of June, 2023.

David Lee Pendergraph, Executor of

The Estate of Ernest Lee Pendergraph

185 Hot Shotes Drive Siler City, North Carolina 27344

MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 Jy6,Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

Having quali ed as the Personal Representative of the Estate of PATRICIA ANN DILLON, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned in care of the attorney for the estate, Kim K. Ste an, Ste an & Associates, P.C., 2411 Old NC 86, Hillsborough, NC 27278, on or before the 4th day of October, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

David Alfred Dillon, Personal Representative Attorney for Estate: Kim K. Ste an Ste an & Associates, P.C. 2411 Old NC 86 Hillsborough, NC 27278 Jy6,Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

the undersigned at 1153 Hu man Mill Road, Burlington, NC 27215 on or before the 13th day of October, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations, indebted to the said estate will please make immediate settlement.

This the 10th day of July, 2023.

Vera T. Harris, Executrix

J. Ray Deal, Attorney

Deal Law, PLLC 1153 Hu man Mill Road Burlington, NC 27215 Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,Au3,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

north carolina chatham county

All persons having claims against Alvin Douglas Hu of Chatham County, North Carolina, who died on the 20th day of March, 2023, are noti ed to present them to Judy C. Lucas, Administrator CTA of the Estate of Alvin Douglas Hu in c/o Higgins, Frankstone, Graves & Morris, P. A., Attorneys for the Estate, 1414 Raleigh Road, Suite 203, Exchange West at Meadowmont, Chapel Hill, NC 27517-8834 on or before October 18, 2023. Failure to present a claim in timely fashion will result in this Notice being pleaded in bar of recovery against the estate, the Administrator CTA, and the devisees of Alvin Douglas Hu . Those indebted to Alvin Douglas Hu are asked to make prompt payment to the Estate. Higgins, Frankstone, Graves & Morris, P.A. 1414 Raleigh Road, Suite 203 Exchange West at Meadowmont Chapel Hill, NC 27517-8834 Jy20,Jy27,Au3,Au10,4tc

Notice to Creditors

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 23-E-355

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executrix of the Estate of MICHAEL DEAN WRIGHT late of Chatham County, NC do hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at the address below on or before the 18th day of October, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 13th day of July, 2023.

Beatrice Geraldine Wright, Executrix of the Estate of Michael Dean Wright, c/o The Law O ce of Anne Page Watson, PLLC 3400 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 205 Durham, NC 27705 Jy20,Jy27,Au3,Au10,4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

2023 E 000393

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against PATRICIA ANN REID deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before October 18, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.

This 13th day of July, 2023.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned having quali ed on the 5th day of July, 2023, as the Co-Executors of the Estate of Bertram Oliver Fraser-Reid, deceased, of CHATHAM County, North Carolina, File No. 21-E-44, do hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before October 18, 2023, or this notice shall be pleaded in bar of recovery of such claims. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 16th day of July, 2023.

Andrea Fraser-Reid and Terrik Fraser-Reid, Co-Executors c/o Ethan C. Timmins, Attorney NC Bar No. 53086 Patrick Law, PLLC 3805 University Drive, Suite A Durham, NC 27707 Ju20,Ju27,Au3,Au10,4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

23 E 376

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against JOSEPH P. ROSSI, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before October 18, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 20th day of July, 2023. Mark J. Rossi, Executor 781 Beaver Dam Rd Chapel Hill, NC 27517 Ju20,Ju27,Au3,Au10,4tp

Public Notice

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-Part B, Public Law 108.446) Project is presently being amended. The Project describes the special education programs that Willow Oak Montessori Charter School proposes for Federal funding for the 2023-2024 School Year. Interested persons are encouraged to review amendments to the Project and make comments concerning the implementation of special education under this Federal Program. All comments will be considered prior to submission of the amended Project to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in Raleigh, North Carolina. The IDEA-Part B Project is open to the public for review and comments during the week of August 4, and August 11 and in the o ce of Allyssa McNeal, EC Coordinator located at 1476 Andrews Store Road, Pittsboro, North Carolina.

Jy20,Jy27,2tc

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SILK HOPE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

TO: Each member of the Silk Hope Volunteer Fire Department and the community (all adults age 18 or older who are residing in the Silk Hope Fire District).

High Point Precast Products, has requested an amendment to the Town of Goldston Watershed Map to add 17.826 acres located at 870 and 819 Walter Lambert Rd (Parcels 9617 and 10087)) to the Town of Goldston Watershed.

6. Tracy Ayotte, on behalf of Ricky Beal and High Point Precast Products, has requested an amendment to the Town’s zoning map to zone as IH- Heavy Industrial a 17.826 -acre tract located at 870and 819 Walter Lamber Rd (Parcels 9617 and 10087).

7. A legislative public hearing request by the Goldston Town Board to consider amendments to the Goldston Uni ed Development Ordinance; speci cally, chapters 2.3,2.4,2.8,2.10,2.13, and 8.3.

Substantial changes may be made following the public hearing due to verbal or written comments received or based on the Board’s discussions. Notice to people with special needs: If you have an audio or visual impairment, unique accessibility requirements or need language assistance, please call the number listed below prior to the hearing and assistance may be provided.

If you have any questions or comments concerning these issues, please call Hunter Glenn with the Chatham County Planning Department 919- 542-8284 or write to P.O. Box 54, Pittsboro N.C. 27312. Jy27,Au3,2tc

Chatham County Schools Surplus Sale

Chatham County Schools is o ering surplused school items for sale via sealed bids. The surplused items can be viewed on:

Date: Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023

Time: 8:00am - 1:00pm

Location: Chatham County Schools

Maintenance/Construction Facilities 155 Farrell Street Pittsboro, NC 27312

If you would like to see a list of items please visit Chatham County Schools website: https://www. chatham.k12.nc.us/Page/23650 Jy27,1tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

23 E 38

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

Having quali ed as Executrix of the Estate of ELIZABETH ALPERIN MAXWELL-GARNER, of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before October 16, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

Leisa Smith, Executrix

Gregory S. Connor, Attorney 5511 Capital Center Drive, Ste. 180 Raleigh, NC 27606 Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,Au3,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, having quali ed on the 3rd day of July 2023, as Executrix of the Estate of Dennis Alan Nagy deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of October, 2023, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 13th day of July 2023

Dori Maria Nagy, Executrix

Estate of Dennis Alan Nagy

Gwendolyn C. Brooks, Esquire

Kennon Craver, PLLC 4011 University Drive, Suite 300 Durham, North Carolina 27707 Jy13,Jy20,Jy27,Au3,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

Having quali ed as Executrix of the Estate of Edwin Earl Elmore, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations, having claims against the said estate to present them to

Hugh A Reid, Administrator 324 W Smith Road Pittsboro, NC 27312 Jy20,Jy27,Au3,Au10,4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF JUDITH PERCIVAL BLOOMER

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Judith Percival Bloomer, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Barbara Ann Rosenberg as Executor of the decedent’s estate on or before October 22, 2023, c/o Gregory HermanGiddens, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above named Executor. This the 20th day of July, 2023.

Barbara Ann Rosenberg, Executor c/o Gregory Herman-Giddens, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517 Jy20,Jy27,Au3,Au10,4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 2023 E 000391

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against RUBY MAE MCSWAIN, RUBY MCSWAIN, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before October 18, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.

This 20th day of July, 2023.

Helen Glover, Administrator 7189 Silk Hope Liberty Road Siler City, NC 27344 Ju20,Ju27,Au3,Au10,4tp

Please take notice of the annual meeting of the membership of the Silk Hope Fire Department, Inc. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at 8 p.m. at the o ce of the corporation which is the re station which is located at the intersection of S.R. 1003 (Silk Hope Road) and S.R. 1346 (Silk Hope Gum Springs Road). The business to be conducted at the annual meeting is as follows: The election of four directors and

2. Any other business which may lawfully come before the meeting is held.

Jerry Barlowe, Secretary Jy20,Jy27,2tc

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

A public hearing will be held by the Goldston Town Board on Monday, August 7th, 2023, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The hearing will be held at the Goldston Town Hall located at 40 Coral Avenue, Goldston, NC 27252.

Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department o ce. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also request to speak by contacting the town clerk Annie Kay King Gaines at akkgaines@americansouthgc.com or Hunter Glenn at hunter.glenn@chathamcountync.gov. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below:

1. Michael Blakley, on behalf of Tumbleweed Holdings, LLC, has requested an amendment to the Town of Goldston Zoning Map to zone as CDIH- Conditional District Heavy Industrial 628.04 acres located at 970 Murchison Rd (Parcels 63303,66852,9896,67003, and 62603).

2. Michael Blakley, on behalf of Tumbleweed Holdings, LLC, has requested an amendment to the Town of Goldston Watershed Map to add 628.04 acres located at 970 Murchison Rd (Parcels 63303,66852,9896,67003, and 62603) to the Town of Goldston Watershed.

3. Harvey Harman, on behalf of Chatham County Habitat for Humanity, has requested an amendment to the Town of Goldston Watershed Map to add 3.16 acres located on Pinecrest Drive (Parcels 9426,9550, and 71799) to the Town of Goldston Watershed.

4. Harvey Harman, on behalf of Chatham County Habitat for Humanity, has requested an amendment to the Town’s zoning map to zone as R-15 Residential 3.16 acres located on Pinecrest Drive (Parcels 9426, 9550, and 71799).

5. Tracy Ayotte, on behalf of Ricky Beal and

23-E-278

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, Maria J. Scho eld, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of James A. Scho eld deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of October 27, 2023, or this notice will be plead in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 27th day of July, 2023.

Maria J. Scho eld, Executor c/o Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312 Jy27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

All persons having claims against Sherman King Poultney, Sherman K. Poultney, of Chatham County, North Carolina, who died on the 2nd day of February, 2023, are noti ed to present them to JoAnn Overton and Christopher Sherman Poultney, Co-Executors of the Estate of Sherman King Poultney, in c/o Dean P. Broz, Attorney for the Estate, at Higgins, Frankstone, Graves & Morris, P. A., 1414 Raleigh Road, Suite 203, Exchange West at Meadowmont, Chapel Hill, NC 27517-8834 on or before October 27, 2023. Failure to present a claim in timely fashion will result in this Notice being pleaded in bar of recovery against the estate, the Co-Executors, and the devisees of Sherman King Poultney. Those indebted to Sherman King Poultney are asked to make prompt payment to the Estate. This the 27th day of July, 2023. Dean P. Broz, Atty for the Estate Higgins, Frankstone, Graves & Morris, P.A. 1414 Raleigh Road, Suite 203 Exchange West at Meadowmont Chapel Hill, NC 27517-8834 Jy27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tc

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed on the 18th day of July, 2023, as Executor and Administrator CTA of the Estate of Ruth Paine Edgerton a/k/a Ruth Benson Paine, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, do hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of October, 2023, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 27th day of July, 2023.

Christopher P.C. Paine, Executor and Kathleen S. Dickinson, Administrator CTA of the Estate of Ruth Paine Edgerton a/k/a Ruth Benson Paine Post O ce Box 57579 Durham, North Carolina 27717 Gwendolyn C. Brooks Kennon Craver, PLLC 4011 University Drive, Suite 300 Durham, North Carolina 27707 Jy27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tc

ADDENDUM ACKNOWLEDEGMENT FORM

ADDENDUM #1

Town of Siler City

311 N. Second Ave

P.O. Box 769

Siler City NC 27344

RFQ TITLE: Stormwater Asset Inventory and Assessment

OPENING DATE: August 02, 2023

ADDENDUM NUMBER: One (1)

DATE: July 19, 2023

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE FOLLOWING

CHANGES ARE APPLICABLE TO THE ORIGINAL

SPECIFICATIONS OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED

RFQ. This addendum includes the following:

1. Stormwater Utility Development.

2. Stormwater Mapping & Condition Assessment (could include the following) Survey of Strom Drainage Structures and Pipes, Smoke/Dye

Testing, SUE Investigation, CCTV, Plans/ Record Drawings Scanning, GPS/GIS Attribute Population, Condition Assessment.

3. Stormwater Master Planning (could include the following) Hydraulics modeling (H&H), Public Participation, Water Quality/Quantity Project Identi cation, Conceptual Project Design, CIP Development

4. Project Management

5. Funding administration or nancial management assistance.

6. Experience with stormwater planning.

Omit the following:

1. Flow tracking to assess current capacity and to identify major sources of In ow and In ltration (I/I).

• Track ow at strategic locations to identify current conditions and future growth limitations.

• Narrow down primary locations of I/I with ow tracking at agreed upon manholes.

• Develop recommendations and strategies for improving I/I issue.

2. Experience with water improvements The Town of Siler City is an Equal Opportunity Employer and invites the submission of proposals from small and minority, and woman-owned rms.

The new submission date: August 02, 2023, by 5:00 pm. The awarded date is August 07, 2023, at the Board of Commissioners meeting. This addendum now becomes part of the original

RFQ.

PROPOSER: BY:

ADDRESS: PHONE: CITY, STATE:

DATE:

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:

Jy27,1tc

ADDENDUN ACKNOWLEDEGMENT FORM

addendum #1 Town of Siler City 311 N. Second Ave P.O. Box 769 Siler City NC 27344

RFQ TITLE: Sewer Asset Inventory and Assessment (AIA) OPENING DATE: August 02, 2023

ADDENDUM NUMBER: One (1)

DATE: July 19, 2023

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE FOLLOWING

CHANGES ARE APPLICABLE TO THE ORIGINAL SPECIFICATIONS OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED

RFQ. This addendum includes the following:

1. Funding administration or nancial management assistance.

2. Compliance with ARPA funds and sewer planning grant.

3. Scopes should reference DWI’s “Water and Wastewater Utility Evaluation Guidance

Document: Asset Inventory and Assessment, Capital Cost, and Operating Cost Analyses.”

Omit the following:

1. Examples of water construction projects

The Town of Siler City is an Equal Opportunity Employer and invites the submission of proposals

CLASSIFIED ADS

REAL ESTATE

LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land

Experts, www.learnaboutland.com - 919-3626999 Jy2,tfnc

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE

O ce, Professional space for lease, now available, in downtown Pittsboro. Call 919612-0596 for details.” Jn15,tfnc

RENTALS, APARTMENTS

POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen

Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. O ce hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919533-6319 for more information, TDD #1800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible, A2,tfnc

from small and minority, and woman-owned rms.

The new submission date: August 02, 2023, by 5:00 pm.

The awarded date is August 07, 2023, at the Board of Commissioners meeting. This addendum now becomes part of the original RFQ.

PROPOSER: BY: ADDRESS:

PHONE: CITY, STATE: DATE:

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE: Jy27,1tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

Having quali ed as Personal Representative of the Estate of LARRY WAYNE BINKLEY, deceased, late of CHATHAM County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at: 1968 Harold Andrews Road, Siler City, NC 27344, on or before the 26TH day of OCTOBER, 2023 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 21st day of July, 2023.

SUSAN MEECE, Personal Representative of the Estate of LARRY WAYNE BINKLEY Frank C. Thigpen Thigpen and Jenkins, L.L.P.

Attorney for Estate Post O ce Box 792 Robbins, NC 27325 Jy27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tc

NOTICE OF HEARINGS, TOWN OF SILER CITY

The following item will be considered by the Siler City Town Council on Monday, August 7, 2023. The hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Siler City Court Room of the Siler City Town Hall at 311 N.

2nd Ave.

Legislative Hearings

R23-0602 – Rezoning of ve tracts from O ce-

Institutional/Conditional O-I-C to Neighborhood Business (B-1-C), parcels totaling 10.812 acres

±, addressed as unaddressed Village Lake Road (parcel number 80718), 100 Village Lake Road (parcel number 80719), unaddressed Siler Business Drive (parcel number 80720), unaddressed Village Lake Road (parcel number 80721), and unaddressed Siler Business Drive (parcel number 80724), and being the properties of Rudra SilerCity, LLC., represented by Courtney McQueen of Qunity Engineering, Inc.

R23-0701 – Rezoning of eight (8) tracts from Agricultural-Residential (A-R) and Residential

6 (R-6) to Residential 3/Conditional (R-3-C), parcels totaling 89.678 acres ±, addressed as two (2) unaddressed parcels Love Creek Church Road (parcel numbers 68842, 14180), 411 Love Creek Church Road (parcel number 14413), and ve unaddressed parcels Woody Lane (parcel numbers 14421, 14423, 14425, 14233, and 14359), and being the properties of Genie Coble; Grady Ray and Genie Coble; Carol Reeves and Deborah Tilson, and Boyd Lee Lambert, Jr.

The proposed item is available for review by contacting Jennifer C. Baptiste at jbaptiste@ silercity.org or 919-726-8626. All persons interested in the outcome of the item are invited to attend the legislative hearing and present comments, testimony, and exhibits on the above referenced item.

These are separate hearings: Interested parties may submit evidence and written comments. Written comments or evidence on these applications can be submitted by email to jbaptiste@silercity.org. Individuals desiring to speak must sign up by calling 919-726-8626 before 12:00 p.m. on or before the scheduled public hearing date. The Town of Siler City will make appropriate

arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of materials for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Tammy Thomas at 919-726-8625, 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344, or tthomas@silercity.org for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Tammy Thomas al tthomas@silercity.org o 919-7268625 o en 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 de alojamiento para esta solicitud. Jy27,Au3,2tc

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

18 E 409

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against JOE BEN KLEINERT, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before October 27, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.

This 25th day of July, 2023.

Donna B. Kleinert, Executrix 6388 Hurta Lane Bryan, Tx 77808 Ju27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 2023 E 000361

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against CLORINDA ANDREWS, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before October 27, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.

This 25th day of July, 2023.

Margaret L. Andrews, Executor P.O. Box 972 Liberty, NC 27298 Ju27,Au3,Au10,Au17,4tp

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice: the Chatham County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution on July 17, 2023 to convey the following property from the Chatham County Public Health Department to these three non-pro t agencies in Chatham.

- Saint Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church

- Alliance Serving Chatham County

- Chatham Outreach Alliance (CORA)

The property consists of:

- Ten portable 2-burner induction cooktops

- Three sets of stainless-steel stove top cookware pots and pans

- Two sets of missing bowls, cutting boards, and cooking utensils

- Two gas ranges

- One commercial refrigerator

The property will be used by the agencies for cooking meals with healthier foods for community members experiencing food insecurity. Jy27,1tc

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Monday, August 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center, Hall C, 1192 US Highway 64 West Business, the Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to receive public comment, both written and oral, on the following proposed amendment to the Town of Pittsboro Town Charter:

Ordinance Amending the Town Charter of Town of Pittsboro to Change the Mayor’s Term of O ce from Two-Year to Four-Year Term

Written comments, which will be included with the record of the public hearing, may be submitted to the Town Clerk, P.O. Box 759, Pittsboro, NC 27312, or by e-mail to: cbailey@ pittsboronc.gov and shall be received by 4 p.m. on Monday August 14, 2023. Comments must include your name and address and should be limited to three minutes.

Pursuant to N.C.G.S §160A-102, the Board of Commissioners may act on this item at its September 11, 2023, meeting, with such action to include approval, disapproval, or tabling the item for further consideration.

Posted this 25th day of July 2023.

Carrie L. Bailey Town Clerk Town of Pittsboro, North Carolina Jy27,Au3,2tc

Sale of Town of Pittsboro Property

An o er of $125,000.00 has been submitted for the purchase of certain property owned by the Town of Pittsboro, more particularly described as follows: Midway Street, Parcel 62413

Legal Description: ALL of that certain lot or parcel of land conveyed by Henry E. Hatch et ux to the Town of Pittsboro recorded in Book HR, Page 254 of the Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description.

SAVE AND EXCEPT all of that certain lot or parcel of land conveyed to E. T. Ward from the Town of Pittsboro recorded in Book JZ, Page 366 of the Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Persons wishing to upset the o er that has been received shall submit a sealed bid with their o er to the o ce of the Town Clerk Carrie Bailey, Town of Pittsboro Town Hall, 635 East Street, Pittsboro, N.C., by 5:00 p.m., August 7, 2023. At that time the Town Clerk shall open the bids, if any, and the highest qualifying bid will become the new o er. If there is more than one bid in the highest amount, the rst such bid received will become the new o er.

A qualifying higher bid is one that raises the existing o er to an amount not less than $131,300.00 together with execution of a Town O er to Purchase and Contract form which is available in the o ce of the Town Clerk.

A qualifying higher bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of ve percent (5%) of the bid; the deposit may be made in cash or cashier’s check. The Town will return the deposit on any bid not accepted and will return the deposit on an o er subject to upset if a qualifying higher bid is received. The Town will return the deposit of the nal high bidder at closing.

The buyer must pay cash at closing.

The Board of Commissioners must approve the nal high o er before the sale is closed, which it will do within 30 days after the nal upset bid period has passed. The Town reserves the right to withdraw the property from sale at any time before the nal high bid is accepted and the right to reject at any time all bids.

Further information may be obtained at the o ce of Town Clerk Carrie Bailey, Town of Pittsboro Town Hall, 635 East Street, Pittsboro, N.C., or call Carrie Bailey at 919.542.4621 ext. 1104 during normal business hours of 8:30-5p.m., MondayFriday.

**Please note no water and sewer entitlements transfer with the above property. Jy27,Au3,2tc

AUTO FOR SALE

FOR SALE - 2011 Lexus ES 350, 919-742-4561, Jy27, tfnc

RV FOR SALE

RV for sale, Damen Daybreak 2000, 75,000 miles, runs great, good tires, good air conditioner, good generator. $10,000, Financing available, 919-828-4247. Jn8,tfncx

FOR SALE

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for one bedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, on-site laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit.

Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-663-1877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity. Jy14,tfnc

YARD SALE

HUGE INDOOR SALE - June 28 & 29 - 17720 US Hwy 64W, Several families. Friday, 9 a.m. until, Saturday, 9 until ? ? Lots of Collectables, Clothing (all sizes), Shoes, Handbags, Books, Purses, Glassware, Cookware, Decorative Pillows, Linens, Pictures, etc. Come check us out! Jy27,1tp

AUCTIONS

AUCTIONEER SCOTT L. HARRIS at JHA. One Call...We sell it all!!! Real estate, personal property, estate settlement, farms & land, business liquidation. JHA has been conducting auctions in the state of NC since 1989. Fully licensed Real Estate and Auction

Firm. NCAL #8420 Firm #8086 www. JerryHarrisAuction.com, 919-498-4077, Jy6,tfnc

‘RICKY ELLINGTON AUCTIONEERSEquipment, business, liquidation, estates, land, houses, antiques, personal property, coins, furniture, consignments, bene ts, etc., NCAL #7706, 919-548-3684, 919-663-3556, rickyellingtonauctions@yahoo.com, Jy6,tfnc

ESTATE SALE - All items must go!

Saturday July 29th and Sunday July 30th from 8am - 2pm.

Address: 99 Owls Nest, Pittsboro

Note: Located in the Cedar Grove neighborhood. Cash only. https://www.estatesales.net/NC/ Pittsboro/27312/3744711

SERVICES

RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919-548-4314, Sales, Services, Supplies.

Serving public for 35 years. Rada Cutlery also available. Au26,tfnc

AUTO BROKERS RECYCLERS - Cash paid for Junk/Wrecked vehicles. Call 919-545-0194. My13,tfnc

JUNK CARS PICKED UP Free of charge. Due to many months of low steel prices and unstable steel markets, we cannot pay for cars at this time. Cars, trucks, and machinery will be transported and environmentally correctly recycled at no charge. 919-542-2803. A2,tfnc

LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-2583594. N9,tfnc

HELP WANTED

PINEY GROVE METHODIST CHURCH is seeking a part-time music director. Contact Cli Stickney at (919) 818-7847 for more information. Jn15,22,29,Jy6,13,20,27,7tp

FOOD SERVICES STAFF, Pittsboro Christian Village is accepting applications for Server, Pantry Cook, and Cook. Apply in person 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday – Friday, at 1825 East St. in Pittsboro. Jy14,tfnc

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

FILE NUMBER: 23 SP 36

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by SHEMIKA SKILLINGS FRANKS AND BOOKER T. FRANKS payable to MORTGAGE INVESTORS CORP, lender, to NATIONAL TITLE NETWORK, Trustee, dated April 16, 2012, and recorded in Book 1616, Page 1104 and further modi ed by Agreement recorded on April 20, 2020 in Book 2107, Page 760 of the Chatham 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 O cial Records of Chatham County, North Carolina, in Book 2347, Page 1043, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at 11:30am, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 9714 00 83 4340

ADDRESS: 120 ELSA JANE LN., PITTSBORO, NC 27312

PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): SHEMIKA SKILLINGS FRANKS AND BOOKER T. FRANKS

ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN HADLEY TOWNSHIP, CHATHAM COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT #90, CONTAINING 4.505 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT ENTITLED “SURVEY FOR BOBCAT POINT SUBDIVISION – PHASE IV; LOTS 89, 90, 102 AND 103,” PREPARED BY VAN R. FINCH – LAND SURVEYS, PA, DATED NOVEMBER 19, 2003, REVISED NOVEMBER 2, 2003 AND REVISED DECEMBER 1, 2003, AND RECORDED IN PLAT SLIDE 2003-438, CHATHAM COUNTY REGISTRY, REFERENCE TO WHICH IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION.

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 o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered 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 ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed 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 ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation 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 e ective 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 e ective date of the termination.

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

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A 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. 52157

Fax: 1-919-800-3528

RAS File Number: 22-020429

HIRING CNA ’ s

ALL SHIFTS

CALL: 919-542-3151

Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for appointment to complete application and interview. Pittsboro Christian Village 1825 East Street, Pittsboro, NC

Now accepting applications for 2BR, 1.5BA Range, refrigerator, dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410

TDD 1-800-735-2962

Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com

Chatham Monument Company has an immediate job opening. This is a full time position and involves placing monuments in the cemetery in Chatham and surrounding counties. Job requirements are: Must have a valid NC drivers license, must be able to lift 75 pounds if necessary. Must have a good attitude, the ability to work well with others and be willing to learn. Also needs reliable transportation to and from work. Pay will be based on the individual and their ability to do the work. Apply in Person to 227 N. 2nd Ave. Siler City, NC 27344

SOUTHERN SUPREME

FRUITCAKE CO. has openings for full time, temporary positions in all areas of production from August 2023 - December 2023.

Interested applicants may apply between 10:00am - 4:00 pm Monday-Thursday at 1699 Hoyt Scott Road, Bear Creek NC 27207

of the Chatham County, North Carolina Registry.

Pursuant to the Order dated May 26, 2023 entered in the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division for Wake County, North Carolina Case No. 22CVS0004903-910, the undersigned counsel for Lienor Sanchez Brothers Masonry,

tham County, State of North Carolina, and more particularly described as follows: NCPIN 973400-34-5627, Real Estate ID 0083437, and the instruments recorded in Book 02197, Page 0797

Sanford ‘team e ort’ shuts down troublesome hotel

Chatham News & Record

SANFORD — After years of battling crime and blight at The Prince Downtown motel, the City of Sanford, North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE), and neighboring residents and businesses worked together to close it down permanently.

The Prince Downtown has long been known as a nuisance to City o cials, Sanford Police, and the community. However, a high legal threshold made closing the facility di cult for the city.

As individual complaints about The Prince Downtown stacked up, City sta and police worked behind the scenes with ALE on a strategy to protect the community from the nuisance activities — and partnered with neighboring property owners to do it.

The city gathered statements from neighbors and business owners a ected by The Prince Downtown’s nuisance activities and used them to le a suit in June 2022 against the motel’s current and former owners.

On June 27, 2022, a North Carolina Superior Court judge issued a temporary restraining order against the current owners that prohibited any further nuisance and criminal activity on the property pending a trial.

“The temporary restraining order was an important rst step in the legal process,” Mayor Rebecca Wyhof Salmon said about the city’s strategy. “With the order in place, the motel’s owners were given the opportunity to remedy the city’s concerns and the city had a tool to hold the owners accountable if they didn’t.”

“The temporary restraining order was an important rst step in the legal process,. With the order in place, the motel’s owners were given the opportunity to remedy the City’s concerns and the City had a tool to hold the owners accountable if they didn’t.”

Rebecca Wyhof Salmon, Mayor

Despite the order, The Prince Downtown’s current owners allowed criminal activity to continue. There were multiple drug transactions, overdoses, and — most tragically — loss of a life at the property.

In late April 2023, the court enforced the temporary restraining order, held the current owners in contempt, and ordered the motel to close immediately, giving two weeks for tenants to vacate the property.

The Court’s ruling did not require the city to help the motel’s tenants. However, due to the short timeline, Sanford o cials worked with S3 Housing Connect to help relocate those a ected by the closure.

“For many of the tenants, The Prince Downtown had been home for years and making a new start was going to be overwhelming,” Byron Buckels, Sanford City Council representative for Ward 4, said. “We wanted to do what we could to make the process a little less scary.”

Days after the court order was

The real property described herein is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS.” The sale shall be made subject to all prior liens, restrictions, and easements of record, as well as any unpaid taxes and assessments, if any. The record owner of the above-described real property as re ected on the records of the Chatham County Register of Deeds not more than ten (10) days prior to posting of this Notice is JLS Homes, LLC, a North Carolina limited liability company. Any successful bidder may be required to deposit with counsel for Lienor immediately upon conclusion of the sale, a cash deposit of ve (5%) of the bid or $750.00, whichever is greater. If the successful bidder fails to make the required deposit, the property will be immediately reo ered for sale. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price

signed, H3 was on-site to share information and assess needs.

The organization delivered a typed notice to all residents explaining the details of the motel closure and that the city and community were coming together to help them.

The agencies were able to quickly move most of the motel’s tenants into permanent housing. The team pitched in to help tenants pack and move, with the City providing moving boxes and supplies.

“The relocation process was one of the most challenging things I have ever done,” Cindy Hall, director of Street Medicine for H3, said. “We did our best to treat each person with compassion and dignity, and worked long hours searching for suitable homes.”

As a result, all but one of the long-term tenants from The Prince Downtown had access to a safe, decent and a ordable place to live just 30 days after the motel’s closure.

At the end of June, a Superior Court judge ruled the mortgage holder could foreclose on the property — something that had not been allowed as the case was being examined. The judge also ruled the current owners had to permanently close The Prince Downtown, and must also demolish and remove the buildings from the property at their expense.

The court’s ruling achieved the city’s goals in ling the original lawsuit, which was to preserve the safety and well-being of all involved. Permanently shutting down the motel and removing the buildings protects tenants from living in unsafe conditions, and also protects neighboring residents and businesses from future nuisance and criminal activity.

“From the Sanford Police Department and ALE to the downtown property owners to our amazing nonpro t agencies,” Salmon said. “This was truly a team e ort that couldn’t happen overnight.”

so bid in cash or by certi ed check at the time counsel for Lienor tenders to him or her a deed for the property or attempts to tender such deed. Should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance of the purchase price so bid at that time, he or shell shall remain liable on the bid. This sale shall be held open ten (10) days for upset bids.

WYRICK ROBBINS YATES & PONTON LLP

Cullen Sta ord csta ord@wyrick.com

Mary Kate Gladstone mgladstone@wyrick.com 4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 300 Raleigh, North Carolina 27607

Telephone: (919) 781-4000

Facsimile: (919) 781-4865

Chatham County residents warned about jury duty phone scams

Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO —Residents of Chatham County are being cautioned by the Chatham County Sheri ’s O ce about a jury duty scam currently making the rounds.

The Sheri ’s O ce said earlier this week that it has received several reports from residents who were contacted by scammers falsely posing as representatives of law enforcement and spoo ng the Sheri ’s Ofce telephone number. In each case, the fraudulent caller informs the recipient that they have neglected their jury duty obligation and must pay a ne to prevent imminent arrest and incarceration. Several residents have reported that scammers have left voicemails when their calls were not answered.

The Sheri ’s O ce says that if you receive such a call, hang up without providing any information about yourself or taking any action. If you have received such a voicemail, do not return the call. The callers use tactics such as pressuring residents to stay on the phone to purchase a money order, prepaid debit card, or gift card,

but you should resist and hang up. If asked, do not leave your home or place of work to meet the caller at any location.

Statewide, members of the public have reported being scammed out of thousands of dollars through jury duty scams. Per North Carolina statute the penalty for disobeying a jury summons is currently $50 for each time a juror fails to appear. In North Carolina, ocial jury summonses, as well as failure to appear notices, are always delivered to your home or post o ce box by rst class mail.

“These deceptive individuals prey on the fear of arrest and exploit our sense of civic responsibility,” Chatham County Sheri Mike Roberson said in a statement. “The Sheri ’s O ce will never call you to demand payment for missed jury duty. If you receive such a call, please report it to our o ce immediately. Together we can protect our community from these fraudulent schemes.”

Chatham County residents should promptly report any suspicious calls or emails to the Chatham County Sheri ’s Ofce at 919-542-2911.

COURTESY PHOTO

From left to right, Club President Bud Hansen, Tessa Gaines, Alyssa Bick, Rebekah Brookshire, Corrine McLaurin, Lillian Jones, Caroline Matthews, Victoria Barlow, Ashlee Raines, Francisco Larreos Perez and Scholarship Committee Chair Michael Rogers. Not pictured, Mylie Cardman and Jackson Headen who were unable to attend.

Silk Hope Ruritan Club awards scholarships

Chatham News & Record

At their regular meeting on Monday, July 10, the Silk Hope Ruritan Club awarded college scholarships to 11 recently graduated high school seniors in Chatham County.

One of the annual highlights of Ruritan Clubs across the nation is being able to help with the nancial support of students in their communities, according to information provided by the organization.

A total of $9,000 was presented to these students after they and their families were treated to a meal at the meeting prepared by club members and their spouses.

Following the meal Rev. Jason Dickerson gave a motivational talk to the students.

A total of $9,000 was presented to these students after they and their families were treated to a delicious meal.

Viana called back up to Brazillian U17 women’s soccer team, B2

Chatham football coaches, athletic directors give insights on ensuring player safety

Programs use variety of techniques to protect against concussions

By Shelby Swanson For Chatham News & Record

RYAN JOHNSON, head football coach at Jordan-Matthews, jokes that he never heard the word “concussion” during his playing days.

Since then, there’s been a

drastic shift. Johnson recalls the conversation around chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) changing in 2015. That year, the lm ‘Concussion’ came out. It recounts forensic pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu, played by Will Smith, confronting the NFL for suppressing his research on CTE, the debilitating brain disease that can cause memory loss, among other symptoms.

Since then, Johnson has seen many parents become hesitant

Palermo in middle of rst minor league baseball season

By Jeremy Vernon Chatham News

& Record

FORMER NORTHWOOD

baseball standout Davis Palermo is currently playing his rst full season of professional baseball.

Palermo, who graduated from Northwood in 2018, played four years with the UNC baseball team before being selected in the eighth round at No. 236 overall by the Colorado Rockies in the 2022 MLB Draft.

“It was pretty unbelievable,”

Palermo told the News & Re -

cord last June. “It’s just a pretty crazy thing to think about. It took a little bit to settle in. You can go back year after year,” he continued. “Even last year at this time, I would’ve said you were crazy. My freshman year, I would’ve said you were even more crazy. It’s just unreal that this is happening from where I was.”

See PALERMO, page B3

about allowing their children to play football.

High school football has long been a cherished tradition in Chatham County, but with the growing concern about sports-related brain injuries like CTE, ensuring player safety has become a paramount focus.

Addressing Concerns and Challenges

Across the region, high school

programs are out tting their players with quality helmets. Virginia Tech researchers’ STAR rating system, which measures a helmet’s ability to reduce the likelihood of a concussion, rates all of the helmets in usage at Seaforth and Northwood as 5-star, indicating a strong commitment to player safety. Across the county, coaches and athletic directors made it clear that it is the school’s responsibility to provide quality equipment.

Jason Amy, the athletic director at Seaforth High School, emphasized safety as a non-negotiable priority. It is one of the top items in his yearly budget, with annual investments in purchasing new helmets.

“We try to get better and better every year,” Amy said.

Mitch Johnson, the head football coach at Northwood High, echoed Amy’s opinion, empha-

ANTHONY

By Jeremy Vernon Chatham

News & Record

CHATHAM COUNTY will

be well represented at the 2023 Dixie Softball World Series. Along with the West Chatham 15U All-Stars — who made the 2023 Dixie Youth Softball Belles (15U) World Series — the West Chatham 10U All-Stars booked their ticket to the 2023 Angels X-Play (10U) World Series. Unlike the 15U All-Stars, the 10U All-Stars will play their tournament in Fairview, Tenn.

West Chatham earned its bid into the World Series after winning the 2023 North Carolina Dixie Youth Angels X-Play state tournament in Winnabow back on July 8-12. The 10U All-Stars went 5-1 during the tournament. Their only loss came to South Stanly, who they eventually bested, 6-5, in the championship game.

“The team is made up of an outstanding group of young girls,” said head coach Lin Andrew. “They not only are good athletes, but they are good kids. Their excitement when making

a big play, crossing home plate, or seeing one of their teammates make a contribution to the team is evident. They are state champions but more importantly, they are 9 and 10 year old girls who are having fun, learning about the game, and learning how to show good sportsmanship.”

The 10U All-Stars are also looking for donations to help fund their travels to Tennessee for the World Series. They have a GoFundMe page set up

See DIXIE WORLD, page B5

SIMON BARBRE | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

sack Northwood quarterback Will Smith during a game last season. The Chargers

the Hawks, 12-7. See FOOTBALL, page B4

4.55 ERA with 36 strikeouts against 13 walks in 29.2 innings pitched this season with the Fresno Grizzlies.

Back row: Shakel Conrad, Lilly Johnson, Sarah Hunt, Anna Claire Caviness, Kaydence Graham, Paisley Hutchins.

week.

JAMES KIERFER | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth rising sophomore So a Viana is set to train with the Brazilian U17 women’s national team from Aug. 1-11 in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro.

Viana called up to Brazil U17 training

By Jeremy Vernon Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — One month after earning her rst invite to a Brazilian women’s national team camp, Seaforth rising sophomore So a Viana is set to train with the U-17 team again next month.

Viana was one of 26 players called up by Brazil U-17 coach Simone Jatobá to head to the Granja Comary — the national team’s main training center — in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro from Aug. 1-11. The team is training in preparation for the 2024 South American U-17 Women’s Championships. Brazil won the 2022 version of the tournament and has claimed four of the seven championships since the tournament’s inception in 2008.

Whoever wins the 2024 South American U-17 Women’s Championships will earn a bid to the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in the Dominican Republic next November.

Viana was born in Miami and was raised in the United States, but she holds dual nationality with Brazil. She had participated in a few Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) talent ID camps in Florida in the past, but she hadn’t competed in the national team system.

The rising sophomore plays club soccer for the North Carolina F.C. 2008 ECNL G team, which competes in the Elite Clubs National League. On top of her responsibilities to her high school team, she also trains four nights a week with her club team.

Viana is one of only two players selected by Brazil’s U-17 team that plays for a club team in the United States, along with Florida United’s JuJu Harris. Many of the other selections play their soccer for clubs in Brazil and other international countries.

This past spring, Viana led the Seaforth girls’ soccer team in both goals (33) and assists (25) from her forward position as just a freshman. She helped the Hawks amass a 17-6-1 overall record and reach the third round of the 2A state playo s before falling to Raleigh Charter. Seaforth is coached by Viana’s dad, Giovanni Viana.

A tenacious attacking player with a knack for nding the back of the net, Viana has modeled her game after Brazilian legend Debinha, who plays for the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and is currently playing for Brazil in the Women’s World Cup this summer.

Viana said she saw Debinha play pretty regularly when she was with the N.C. Courage from 2017-22. She even made a habit of speaking with her after the games, and at one point she exchanged phone numbers with the two-time NWSL champion.

Like Debinha and other Brazilian legends like Marta and Formiga, Viana will be referred to by just one name — So a — going forward as she continues to compete with Seleção. Playing under a mononym, like Pele, Neymar or Ronaldo, is a common practice among Brazilian soccer players and is considered part of the country’s unique soccer culture.

CHATHAM COUNTY SPORTS

Here are some more of our photographs showcasing Chatham County sports during the 2022-23 school year. Throughout the summer, we’ll share more shots our photographers captured over three seasons of high-level competition.

run over 1.1 innings while walking two batters. That came after posting a 2.78 ERA with a 7424 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 58.1 innings with the Tar Heels during the 2022 college season.

Palermo joined the Fresno Grizzlies — the Rockies’ Single-A a liate — in 2023 and has played in 28 games this summer. In 29.2 innings

pitched, he has a 4.55 ERA and 36 strikeouts against 13 walks.

In his last appearance before this story was written, on Sunday, Palermo picked up the loss after allowing three runs (two earned) in the 10th inning of the team’s loss to the Modesto Nuts.

During his senior season at Northwood in 2018, Palermo was 3-3 with a 2.16 ERA and 46 strikeouts against 15 walks. He also batted.235 at the plate with

12 hits and eight RBI.

According to Baseball Reference, Palermo is the fourth former Northwood player to play professional baseball, joining Benji Johnson (2007-2013), Woods Fines (2005-2012) and Austin Brice (2010-2023). Brice was the only one of the three to make the major leagues, as he appeared in 144 games over seven seasons with the Marlins, Reds, Red Sox and Pirates.

In his MLB career, Brice was 4-4 with a 5.12 ERA and 160 strikeouts over 168.2 total innings pitched. Right now, he plays for the St. Paul Saints, the Triple-A a liate of the Minnesota Twins. In 16 games with the team this summer, he is 1-1 with a 4.41 ERA and 17 strikeouts over 16.1 innings.

The only other former Chatham County player to play Major League Baseball apart from

Brice is Greg Harris, who graduated from Jordan-Matthews 1981. Harris was selected in the 10th round of the 1985 MLB Draft and played eight years between the Padres, Rockies and Twins.

In 243 career appearances (109 starts), Harris had an overall record of 45-64 with a 3.98 ERA and 605 strikeouts against 303 walks over 909.1 innings pitched.

JAMES KIEFER | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

JAMES KIEFER | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

NIKKI WITT | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

JAMES KIEFER | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

PALERMO from page 1

Chelsea/Wrexham latest example of Triangle’s sporting successes

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

THE TRIANGLE is proving to be a premier destination for major sporting events in North Carolina as, yet again, another massively successful venture happened right within its borders.

It was the second time this year that one of the area’s local universities transformed its college football stadium into a brand new venue for an event never before seen in the area.

In February, it was the NHL heading outdoors as the Carolina Hurricanes hosted the Washington Capitals for the NHL’s Stadium Series in Carter-Finley Stadium and this time, it was Kenan Stadium hosting a FC Series match between two of Europe’s most popular clubs in Chelsea FC and Wrexham AFC. Putting on these events is an undertaking of massive proportions because the facilities aren’t readily available, they have to be assembled.

In Raleigh, it was the creation and sustentation of ice at Carter-Finley Stadium and in Chapel Hill, it was the laying of 100,000 square feet of fresh sod on the arti cial turf of Chris

Smith Field. “This is a rst on this eld since we’ve been arti cial,” said UNC’s Director of Athletic

Grounds and Turf Management Casey Carrick. “But we’ve been to Bank of America in Charlotte and helped with a couple of

those ip-overs so it’s not a new process to us, but it is new for Kenan.

“The sod is speci cally made

for applications like this. It’s a four month process to grow the sod at the farm. It’s grown on plastic so the depth of it is pretty consistent and uniform throughout the whole thing. It weighs 17 pounds a square foot so it’s very heavy. There’s a couple of machines out here that push it together really tight and make the seams almost unnoticeable and so once it’s in place it really doesn’t go anywhere.”

According to Carrick, the sod that Chelsea and Wrexham played on is the same one utilized in various NFL stadiums.

The sod was laid one week prior to the match and was ready for game day with no issues.

“When we heard it had only been put down last week, I think everybody was a little bit nervous, but it played incredibly well,” said Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson. “You’ve got to give the grounds sta and the technology so much credit for that. For it to knit together so quickly, it was amazing. We all thought it was going to cut up, but it didn’t. It was a fantastic playing surface, so credit to everybody involved.”

If you build it, they will come.

That’s proving to be a non-debatable truth in an area hungry

The Northwood football team had an overall record of 4-6 in 2022. The Chargers are set to begin their rst season under new head coach Mitch Johnson on Aug. 18 at home against Riverside-Durham.

sizing that he doesn’t know of “any student that has purchased their own equipment.”

Still, booster clubs help.

Cameron Vernon, the athletic director at Northwood, recognized the importance of continued community support and funding. He expressed his commitment to prioritize “needs” — such as safety — and explore further improvements or “wants” with money left over.

Currently, Vernon and Northwood are looking to kick-start a new campaign to raise money for a new-andimproved eld house.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Northwood is taking its approach to football equipment a step further — investing in Guardian Caps, a padded shell xed to the outside of a player’s helmet, to enhance protection.

According to research from the NFL, the Guardian Cap results in at least a 10 percent reduction in impact severity if one player is wearing it, and at least 20 percent reduction if two players are wearing them.

“Every one of our players wears it at all times,” Mitch Johnson said. “I don’t even think we’ve had our helmets on without the Guardian Cap on.”

Mitch Johnson, who joined Northwood this o season, said this is the second high school he’s been with that has implemented the usage of Guardian Caps.

However, there still isn’t a consensus on the use of the caps across the county.

Terrance Gary, the head football coach at Seaforth, said that he was looking into purchasing the Guardian Caps this year, but after doing more digging, decided against it.

“A lot of the research says

it’s not really that e ective,”

Gary said.

Gary, like other coaches in the area, is doubling down on proper tackling techniques through circuits and believes in the age-old wisdom of “you can’t hit what you can’t see.”

Not only are these tackling drills key to building solid fundamentals, but they prioritize player visibility and safety during practice.

Gary and his sta attend Glazier Clinics, a series of football clinics that equip Gary and other coaches with lesson plans — instructing them on how to implement safe tackling practices over the course of a season.

Part of this continued education is the acknowledgement of soaring temperatures during summer training. Coaches like Ryan Johnson are prioritizing regular water breaks and other cooling measures, with Jordan-Matthew’s athletic trainer even chalking up an extensive “heat plan.”

Future Steps and Optimism

Football in Chatham County is not just a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon.

The coaches and athletic directors in the region are cognizant of their responsibility in ensuring the safety of their athletes. By investing in top-rated helmets, proper tackling techniques, and expert trainer support, they are taking signi cant strides to protect their players.

Gary hopes that, with these extra steps, young athletes won’t have to miss out on the life lessons that football provides.

“Concussions are important, but I also feel like football is such a great sport when it comes to developing yourself as a man or woman,” Gary said. “You have so many different positions and roles on that team, which translates to life.”

SIMON BARBRE | CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

A sellout crowd of over 50,500 fans enjoyed a FC Series match between Chelsea and Wrexham at University of North Carolina’s Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill.

UNC men’s basketball announces home-and-home with Kansas; Black signs two-way deal with Hornets

By Jeremy Vernon Chatham News & Record

CHAPEL HILL — On Monday morning, the North Carolina men’s basketball team announced it will play a homeand-home series with the University of Kansas during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

The Tar Heels will play on the road in 2024-25 before hosting the Jayhawks the following season. UNC has only played at Allen Fieldhouse — the historic home of Kansas’ men’s basketball team — one other time, way back in 1960. It also has never hosted the Jayhawks at Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill.

The Tar Heels and Jayhawks have played 12 times in their storied history, including seven times in the NCAA Tournament. While the two teams have each won six games against each other during that span, Kansas has won the past six meetings, including a 72-69 win over the Tar Heels in the 2022 NCAA Tournament nal.

“These two games should be exciting for players and coaches on both teams and a win for fans of college basketball,” UNC head coach Hubert Davis said in a statement. “It’s an opportunity for two great programs to play in each other’s home arenas, which are among the best and most historic in our game.”

Former Tar Heels’ head coach Roy Williams — who led UNC to three national titles from 2003-2021 — also coached the Jayhawks from 1988-2003. Wil-

with a goal of $20,000. These donations will go toward travel expenses for players and their families. At the time this story

liams is the only coach in NCAA history to win at least 400 games with two programs (418 with Kansas and 485 with UNC).

Dean Smith played collegiately at Kansas before graduating in 1953. He eventually took the head coaching job at UNC and helped the Tar Heels win two national championships in 1983 and 1992.

Leaky Black earns contract with Hornets

Former UNC men’s basketball player Leaky Black has earned himself a contract at the NBA level. Black — who started 130 games over ve seasons with the Tar Heels from 2018-2023 — signed a two-way deal with the Charlotte Hornets last week.

Black wasn’t selected in the 2023 NBA Draft but earned an invite to play with Charlotte during the Summer League. He averaged just 2.7 points and 5.7 rebounds in 15.7 minutes per game with the Hornets, but his tenacious defense made him an asset the team is willing to gamble on.

In his ve seasons at UNC, Black was an All-ACC defensive team member twice. His 6-foot-8 frame, long arms and lateral quickness made him a nightmare for o ensive players. While his lack of o ensive game will keep him o the oor for long stretches at the next level, Black could become a solid situational defensive player regardless of whether or not he nds his shooting touch.

As a two-way player, Black

was written, a total of $2,851 had been raised. This is the second time in three years the West Chatham 10U All-Stars have made the Dixie World Series. Back in

will spend most of his time with Charlotte’s G-League a liate — the Greensboro Swarm. He is able to spend up to 45 days during the season with the Hornets, and he will be paid a corresponding daily amount depending on the number of days he plays in each league.

Black was one of two players Charlotte used two-way contracts on. The other was Amari Bailey, whom the team took with the No. 41 pick in this year’s NBA Draft.

Maye signs NIL deal with The Rock’s energy drink company

Last week, North Carolina football quarterback Drake Maye was announced as one of seven NCAA athletes to sign a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal with ZOA Energy — a drink company founded by actor and former professional wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

According to ZOA’s Amazon page, the drinks include 160210 mg of natural ca eine from green tea and green co ee, 100% of your daily Vitamin C and a mix of six di erent B-Vitamins. ZOA’s energy drinks are currently o ered in eight di erent avors, and the company also makes pre-workout drinks.

The other athletes included in the company’s rst foray into the NIL game are LSU women’s basketball player Angel Reese, Florida A&M softball player Amaya Gainer, Georgia football

2021, the 10U team made the big tournament and ended up nishing third overall. Andrews said it has been fun watching the e ects playing a team sport has had on his play-

tight end Brock Bowers, Ohio State football receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., Miami football defensive back Kamren Kitchens and Northwestern State men’s basketball player Hansel

Enmanuel.

According to On3’s NIL Top 100 rankings, Maye is seventh with $1.5 million in “total evaluation” — an algorithm that establishes the market based on two categories, brand value index and roster value index.

Maye is widely considered

ers. “Sports have such a positive impact on not only the physical health, but also the mental and emotional well-being of kids,” he said. “It’s great to see them

one of the top prospects in college football heading into next year’s NFL Draft. Many publications list him as the No. 2 quarterback in the class behind USC quarterback Caleb Williams, and he could very well be a top- ve pick come next April. Last season, his rst starting for UNC, Maye completed 66.2% of his passes for 4,321 yards and 38 touchdowns against seven interceptions. He also ran for 698 yards and seven rushing touchdowns.

growing as players and growing as individuals. Our local recreation departments as well as our city and county programs continue to positively impact the children in our community.”

AP PHOTO

North Carolina forward Armando Bacot (5) shoots against Kansas forward Mitch Lightfoot during the rst half of a college basketball game in the nals of the Men’s Final Four NCAA tournament, Monday, April 4, 2022, in New Orleans.

DIXIE WORLD from page 1

2024 Ford Mustang

By Jordan Golson North State Journal

LOS ANGELES — The car market is changing so quickly, it’s challenging to keep up — even for an expert. Electric cars are in and gas-guzzling, impractical oldschool rides are out. Or are they?

Growing exceptionally longin-the-tooth, both the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro are done after 2023, leaving the Ford Mustang as the only muscle-slash-pony car left. But Ford isn’t just keeping the Mustang around while Stellantis and GM eye an electric muscle car future. Instead, we have a new seventh-generation Mustang, with new tech and performance features, which Ford hopes will appeal to a younger, more diverse audience. It just might work, too.

Ford says the Mustang is the best-selling sports car of the last decade (cumulatively, not across individual years), and sees enough oomph left to invest a not insigni cant amount of money in the Seventh-gen car. It’s not a clean sheet design, which would be prohibitively expensive for a nameplate that will sell perhaps 50,000 vehicles per year, but Mustang is perhaps the most iconic brand Ford has, sitting atop the company’s subbrand pyramid with Bronco and the F-Series of pickups, and this longnosed pony isn’t yet ready to put out to pasture.

The biggest change is to the interior, where Ford has installed a pair of crisp and clear 13-inch screens. On the right is the in-

fotainment touchscreen, which Ford repeatedly pointed out is angled 10 degrees to the left for a more driver-centric cockpit. The company has adopted Epic’s Unreal Engine to display some gorgeous renders of the Mustang on its status screens, though the company whi ed a bit because the on-screen ‘Stang doesn’t match the car you’re sitting in. I nudged Ford reps about this, hoping they’ll match screen and car soon, and I also suggested that they add Fortnite-style Easter eggs like, perhaps, a surprise Rulolph-themed car for Christmas or a big Jack-o-lantern on Halloween.

Perhaps the biggest surprise-and-delight moment is the various instrument cluster display modes, with di erent options for Normal, Sport, or Track driving — plus a special screen replicating the old Fox Body dash

cluster from the late 80’s Mustangs that I grew up with, complete with green backlighting when the headlights are turned on. It’s wonderfully silly to bring back such an iconic dashboard, and a terri c use of a digital display.

There are two main variants of the Mustang, largely based around what’s under the hood. First, there’s a terri c 2.3-liter, 315-horsepower four-cylinder turbo (EcoBoost, in Ford marketingspeak) that comes over from the wickedly fun and now-cancelled Ford Focus RS.

Fun fact: you only have to go back 13 years, to the 2010 model year, to nd a Mustang GT that makes 315 horsepower from its big V8. This EcoBoost Mustang is no slowpoke, and was the focus of the assembled press’s rst day with the new Mustang. With the optional active exhaust t-

ted, it’s one of the best-sounding four-cylinder engines I’ve ever heard, and de nitely the best at this price point.

The Mustang GT swaps that for a 480-horsepower V8 that sounds terri c, is very speedy, and is the only way to get a manual transmission — but it’s not the one I would get.

The EcoBoost Mustang has more than ample power, and I would rather put the money towards all manner of upgrades that will make life more fun than a big V8 will. The Performance Package, available on either car, adds Brembo brakes, extra stiening elements, extra aerodynamic bits, and, crucially, an electronic drift brake designed with direct input from the drifting experts at Vaughn Gittin Jr.‘s RTR.

It’s wildly fun and surprisingly easy to use, so long as you don’t mind wearing out your tire’s treadwear warranty far faster than necessary. The drift brake is an electronic parking brake, but with an old-style handle rather than a push-button. Turn on the proper track-only modes and you can lock up the rear wheels and start a slide with the briefest yoink. Best kept to race tracks (or deserted parking lots), it’s far more fun and far more safe than an impromptu drag race. Nonetheless, a drift brake-equipped Mustang will probably appear on a TikTok near you sliding beautifully sideways right into a Walmart parking lot light pole.

It’s not that the GT or it’s big V8 engine isn’t great — it is. But by the time you check all the op-

tion boxes that you should check, you’re approaching Mustang Dark Horse territory. Dark Horse is a new, performance trim sitting above the GT, and with an almost identical engine and accompanying performance gures, although the Dark Horse does get to the psychologically important 500-horsepower gure.

I’m reviewing Dark Horse separately (Ford had the press test them at separate events), but to me it’s clear that the new Mustang comes down to two optimal setups: an EcoBoost engine with as many go-faster options as you can a ord (Performance Pack highly recommended), or just go all the way and get the Dark Horse, lest you opt for the GT and turn green with envy when the faster and more mischievous night pony gallops past at your next track day.

After testing both on the world-famous canyon roads north of LA, and getting time with the EcoBoost on a deceptively challenging autocross course, I can say with certitude that the smaller engine is the better buy. It’s lighter, handles better, and (not that you care, particularly, if you’re buying this car) is a bit kinder to your wallet at the fuel pump. And it still sounds great.

To be sure, the GT is a good time, with the big V8 letting out an angry bellow at the slightest twitch of the throttle (and with a 7,500 rpm redline). But by the time you go GT, you really ought to go big or go home. Dark Horse is waiting in the shadows, ready and waiting.

This pony isn’t quite ready to be put out to pasture

& paper pursuits

SOLUTIONS

NC Zoo working to secure funding to rebuild aviary

“Once the demolition drawings are complete, Zoo sta will work next on the bid process for a contractor to remove the building.”

Diane Villa

By Scott Pelkey North State Journal

ASHEBORO — The Aviary at the North Carolina Zoo is set to be demol ished, but the Zoo is working on secur ing funds and putting together plans to rebuild.

With its 93 species of birds, hundreds of tropical plants, and an environment that mimics the tropical rainforest, the Aviary has been a guest favorite since it rst opened in 1982.

In January 2022, the Zoo announced that the Aviary would be closing due to a potential threat of Avian Flu, leaving many guests with the impression that this closure would be temporary. Howev er, during the closure, a team of engineers was brought in to conduct an inspection of the building, and their ndings were not promising.

“The aviary is a very humid environ ment; it’s a very rough environment,” said Debbie Zombeck, the chief curator of birds at the N.C. Zoo and the aviary’s su pervisor, in an interview last year.

After 40 years, it seems that the build ing has reached the end of its lifecycle.

Engineers found drainage, foundation, and HVAC issues and ultimately conclud ed that renovations would not be nan cially viable for the Zoo. Fears surround ing aviation u at the time, coupled with the engineers’ assessment, led to the un popular decision to permanently close and take down the habitat in April 2022.

Because the response from the pub lic was overwhelmingly negative, the Zoo administration and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources quick ly began working secure funding to both demolish the old aviary and, in the fu ture, rebuild.

The Zoo has hired REI Engineers to work on demolition drawings.

“Once the demolition drawings are complete, Zoo sta will work next on the bid process for a contractor to remove the building,” said Diane Villa, Director of Communications and Marketing.

In March 2023, Governor Roy Cooper introduced his 2023-25 budget proposal, which includes $60 million for the “Zoo Aviary replacement,” but the budget has not been passed.

“The aviary has been an integral part of the N.C. Zoo for decades,” said Sena tor David Craven, Jr. “It was a unique ex perience that provided an experience that provided visitors an up-close-and-per sonal look at birds and tropical plants.

While no timeline has been an nounced, sources familiar with the Zoo say a new aviary may not open until at least 2030.

“Should the funding come through, the new aviary design process will begin,” said Villa. “It will take time, noting that the North Carolina Zoo is in the process of building the Asia region as a priority, but sta are excited to begin establishing criteria for the birds and the guest experience. As it is early in the planning and funding phases, it is di cult to set a timeline for when the new aviary will be completed.”

SCOTT PELKEY | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

A sign outside the entrance tells guests that the aviary is closed.

Adam Phillips, Miranda Parker, Mary Maloney, Gary Phillips, Jay Parker, Don Basnight, Ken Tunnell, Terri Turner, Crystal Fisher