North State Journal Vol. 9, Issue 30

Panthers bench QB Bryce Young, B1

the BRIEF this week

Suspect in apparent assassination attempt on golf course for 12 hours

West Palm Beach, Fla.

The Greensboro native suspected in an apparent assassination attempt targeting Donald Trump camped outside a Florida golf course with food and a rifle for nearly 12 hours, lying in wait for the former president before a Secret Service agent thwarted the potential attack and opened fire, according to court documents filed Monday. Ryan Wesley Routh did not fire any shots, never had Trump in his line of sight and sped away after an agent who spotted him shot in his direction, officials said. He was arrested in a neighboring county. Routh, 58, appeared in federal court in West Palm Beach to face federal firearms charges, starting a criminal case in the final weeks of a presidential race already touched by violence and upheaval. Though no one was injured, the episode marked the second attempt on Trump’s life in as many months. Routh has three misdemeanor and two felony convictions in North Carolina — including one for a 2002 incident during which he barricaded himself in a Greensboro roofing company building, leading to a threehour standoff with police. One of the charges was for possession of a weapon of mass destruction for having a fully automatic weapon. An AK-style rifle was found at the scene where Routh was located by the Secret Service.

Goldsboro’s O’Meara retiring from pro golf

Pebble Beach, Calif.

Mark O’Meara, the 67-yearold Goldsboro native who grew up in California, is ending his career this week at the PGA Tour Champions’ Pure Insurance Championship, held at Pebble Beach and Spyglass. O’Meara, inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2015 at a ceremony at St. Andrews, ends his career with 16 wins on the PGA Tour, three on the European tour, two on the Japan Golf Tour, one on the PGA Tour of Australasia and the 1994 Argentina Open.

O’Meara’s two biggest wins were the Masters and British Open in 1998, making him the oldest player to win two majors in the same year, and he also won the U.S. Amateur in 1979.

Under water

A police officer checks on a vehicle that fell into a sinkhole on a highway in Brunswick County after a storm dropped historic amounts of rain on North Carolina’s coast Monday. For more, turn to Page A8.

UNC System reports growth in enrollment

HBCUs led gains as N.C.’s public universities aligned with a national upward trend

School construction financing, more asks greenlit by LGC

Macon and Rowan counties were approved for a combined $142 million

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Local Government Commission has greenlit financing requests totaling more than $335 million for various projects across the state, in-

cluding school construction financing for Macon and Rowan counties.

The approvals came during the Local Government Commission’s (LGC) monthly meeting held Sept. 10.

Rowan County secured the largest single financing approval, with $73 million in limited obligation bonds authorized for school-related capital projects. The funds will be used to address aging facil-

See LGC, page A8

WCPSS paid $379K to senator’s equity training company

The Equity Collaborative was founded and run by Orange County state Sen. Graig Meyer

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Three years after North State Journal reported on a professional development course called “Intro to Critical Race Theory“ being offered to teachers in Wake County Public Schools, the organization behind that training continues to receive funds from the district.

Public records requests show Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) invoices and payments to The Equity Collaborative (TEC) totaling more than $379,500 between 2019 and July 2024.

TEC was founded and is run by sitting North Carolina General Assembly Sen. Graig Meyer (D-Orange). According to its website, TEC’s “equity-centered professional learning and coaching” includes defining “what is equity” as well as exploring implicit bias,” “understanding systemic oppression and privilege” and “developing your approach for anti-racism.”

“The sessions are based on the belief that helping adults to develop an equity-centered approach to everything they do is the key to achieving equity in school environments,” TEC’s website says. “This institute is focused on finding common definitions of equity, oppression, and culturally responsive actions, as well as developing an approach to grow, change, and better serve our most marginalized students and families.”

North State Journal staff

RALEIGH — In a year when many universities across the nation are still feeling the aftershocks of pandemic-era enrollment drops, the University of North Carolina System is experiencing a rising tide. From Western Carolina to UNC Wilmington, there are nearly a quarter million students now navigating the halls of the state’s public universities. According to a release this week from the UNC System, enrollment across the 17-campus system is up 2.2% from last year and 3.5% since 2022.

The growth aligns with national figures, which show a 2.5% increase in undergraduate enrollment for Spring 2024, according to recent data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. All institutions with-

“Our goal is to help organizations develop their own capacity to create educational equity and social justice by addressing bias and oppression,” TEC’s website says about its equity coaching. A 2021 analysis of contracts in just seven districts around the country found TEC had earned more than $1.29 million in fees, including a “racial equity institute” and “dismantling racism” workshops that cost the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Schools $219,100. In 2020, Cumberland County Public Schools paid TEC $38,826 and New Hanover schools paid TEC over $24,000.

In 2021, NSJ reported that WCPSS had supplied $97,000 in invoices and

See WCPSS, page A8

$2.00

in the UNC System reported an increase in enrollment, with transfer enrollment seeing a significant 7.8% rise over last year. UNC System campuses added more than 5,400 students this fall.

North Carolina Central, UNC Wilmington and Elizabeth City State led the system with the highest growth rates at 7.7%, 4.7% and 4.3%, respectively. Meanwhile, Winston-Salem State (0.1%), Western Carolina (0.5%), UNC Pembroke (0.6%), UNC Chapel Hill (0.6%) and East Carolina (0.6%) saw more modest increases. NC State, which remains the largest campus by undergraduate enrollment, experienced a 3.1% increase.

“We’ve worked hard to keep higher education affordable, to make sure students are graduating with great prospects and less debt,” said UNC System President Peter Hans. “Our universities are focused on delivering a valuable education that’s truly accessible for the people of this state, and that message is getting across.”

See UNC, page A2

BRUNSWICK

How natural it is for us to desire to be in the presence of the Master, to walk with him, to talk with him and to behold his wondrous works. How pleasant to sit at his feet and learn of him. How often we think of those who enjoyed walking with him over the hills of Judea — and wish for ourselves that glorious privilege. It is our privilege, though our natural eyes cannot see him, to dwell in his presence, to commune with him and to learn the deep things of God. In the secret closet, we often feel very near to Him, and our souls long to remain there. Yet, like the man from whom the devils were cast out, we are often not permitted to remain with the Lord—He sends us away.

When we feel ourselves apart from him, it is not always because we have wandered away — for often he finds it needful to send us away for some purpose. Even those who were privileged to be his closest companions while on earth were sent away from him from time to time on various missions.

Sometimes he sent them with the message, “Go and tell.” Obedience to this command, took them away from his presence. Their eyes no longer witnessed His mighty works, nor did their ears hear His gracious words. They did not have the support of his presence — but found themselves apart from the Master.

In the same way, we must often go out from Him with a message, and, being apart from Him in a sense, we may find ourselves needy, seemingly relying on our own strength. Yet, we must daily carry His message to the people, and while doing so, it’s no wonder if we sometimes feel lonely. However, like the disciples, once we have spoken the message, we may return again into His presence.

One he sent away for investigation, saying, “Go ... and show yourself to the priest.” Sometimes we must go out among our enemies and be a gazing-stock for them. We must be the object of their criticism, of their scoffs, of their mockings — and all this apart from the Master. But shall we not bear all these things and rejoice in them, that when we have returned to the Master, and are sitting in the quiet and silence at his feet, holding sweet converse with him — we may know we have wrought his will and glorified his name?

Sometimes he sends us forth to perils. “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves.” But he also gives us the sweet assurance, “Nothing shall by any means hurt you.” His messengers now, as in the days of old, must face perils; and these perils must, in a sense, be faced away from the Master’s presence.

Sometimes he sends to suffering. He said of Paul, “I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”

Even Jesus Himself was sent apart from the Father. He had to leave the glories of Heaven and all they entailed, sacrificing all the honor He had and the joy of being in the Father’s presence

UNC System DEI cuts total over $17M

There were 59 positions cut and 132 reassigned across the state’s 16 public universities

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The University of North Carolina System diversity, equity and inclusion position cuts and reassignments totaled more than $17.1 million.

At its regular meeting on Sept. 11, the University of North Carolina System Board of Governors (UNCBOG) unveiled a one-page summary detailing that 59 positions were cut and 132 reassigned across the system’s 16 schools. The summary lists a total redirected funds of

$16,269,671 and $17,118,889 in total estimated cuts.

“The reports will be scrutinized far and wide, Andrew Tripp, the legal counsel for the UNC System, said during the board meeting. “Some will say that the campuses went too far, some will say the campuses didn’t go far enough. It’s ultimately the Board of Governors that will judge campuses’ compliance.”

UNC Chapel Hill had the most positions eliminated, with 20, and the school also had 27 realigned positions.

The moves totaled $5,389,202, the largest for any school in the UNC System.

Behind Chapel Hill, UNC Charlotte had nine position cuts totaling $1,008,173. The next largest set of cuts was NC

State, with eight positions removed at $4,909,053.

Fayetteville State had the fewest changes, with only one position realigned and no change in cost.

Of the millions in cuts, a large portion was redirected to student success initiatives, such as recruitment efforts and scholarships. Aside from UNC Pembroke and Appalachian State, all of the UNC schools have already spent their redirected money.

UNCBOG member Joel Ford, one of two members who opposed the policy changes earlier this year, expressed concern about recruitment and retention and asked UNC System president Peter Hans to make sure the system’s universities remained welcoming to all students.

— and go to earth to be despised, mocked, hated, scourged, and crucified. Sometimes his spirit was heavy, and sorrow weighed him down; and at last, in the most trying hour, he felt his separation from his Father most keenly and cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” If it was necessary for the Son of God to go apart from the Father, to be sad and lonely and heavy-hearted, and at last feel himself forsaken — then should we think it a strange thing if we sometimes have a similar experience? How sweet to be with him in the secret closet and in the meetings with his saints. How it warms our hearts and fills us with courage and hope. But for the sake of our work, we must go apart to endure, sacrifice and suffer. We cannot always see his smiling face. But there will be a time when we shall forever be with the Lord. Until the time shall come, let us be willing to obey him, even though it takes all the courage and fortitude we have. If we find ourselves apart from him, let us not accuse ourselves of wandering away, if we are doing the work of God. Heaven will be all the sweeter because of our having been, in this sense, apart from the Master here — and we shall be the better prepared to enjoy his presence when he comes for us.

Charles Wesley Naylor is considered one of the most prolific and inspiring songwriters of the Church of God. He was bedridden for much of his adult life but wrote eight books, a newspaper column and over 150 songs. Many of his writings are in the public domain.

“That remains our obligation under federal law, state law and our moral obligation as well,” Hans told Ford.

NC State cut more than $4.9 million by eliminating eight diversity, equity and inclusion positions.

The cuts were made as a result of the UNCBOG repealing and replacing its previous diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies and requirements for all the system’s campuses during meetings held in April and May. The new policy focuses on equality and nondiscrimination over DEI concepts that critics on both the UNCBOG a nd UNC Board of Trustees found to be divisive. All UNC System schools received legal guidance on the new policy in July.

NCCash program hands out record $115M

$1.3B remains waiting to be claimed

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of State Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division has achieved record-breaking results in returning unclaimed money to its rightful owners for the fourth consecutive year.

State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell announced that over $115 million was returned in the 2023-24 fiscal year, surpassing the previous year’s record of $108.5 million.

UNC from page A1

The system’s growth strategy has centered on maintaining low tuition rates, implementing student support programs, improving financial aid, enhancing transfer programs and expanding online learning opportunities.

David English, the UNC System’s senior vice president for academic affairs, emphasized the long-term nature of their approach.

“We’ve been preparing for a more challenging demograph-

“We set a record of sending out $115 million in unclaimed property and we have over $1.3 billion still sitting at nccash.com,” said Folwell said during his monthly call with reporters.

In a press release, Folwell said, “We can’t give this money away fast enough.”

Folwell attributed the improved performance of the Unclaimed Property Division (UPD) to work done by Deputy Treasurer Allen Martin.

“We were able to have another record year in receipts and claims paid thanks to our dedicated team of professionals,” Folwell said in a release.

The division currently holds

ic environment for a long time,” said English. “We need to reach a larger share of our high school graduates, make it easier for community college students to transfer, and make financial aid easier to access and understand. That’s long-range work, but you see it reflected in these enrollment numbers.”

The system’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have contributed significantly to the enrollment increase, reflecting a broader national trend. North

22.3 million properties valued at $1.3 billion waiting to be claimed.

Comparatively, the UPD has returned $610.5 million on 885,691 claims since 2017, a substantial increase from the $393.3 million on 333,294 claims during the previous eight-year tenure of former State Treasurer Janet Cowell. Citizens can visit NCCash. com and search for their name or that of a family member for free to find unclaimed property, which can originate from various sources, including forgotten bank accounts, wages, utility deposits and contents of safe deposit boxes.

Carolina A&T, now the largest HBCU in the country, reported an enrollment exceeding 14,000 students. North Carolina Central experienced a 7.7% increase, pushing its enrollment to 8,579 this fall.

The gains at North Carolina’s HBCUs align with a national resurgence in HBCU enrollment. According to recent data, many HBCUs across the country have seen substantial growth in recent years, even as overall college enrollment faced challenges. Factors contributing to the growth in-

For the fiscal year 202324 ending on June 30, UPD paid 145,032 claims totaling $115,063,782, surpassing the previous record of $108,586,650 for 2022-23, according to Folwell’s office.

In the past few years, with assistance from the legislature, the treasurer’s office rolled out the NCCash Match Program, which now allows citizens with $5,000 or less in unclaimed funds to receive a letter from Folwell’s office alerting them to unclaimed funds. Once a citizen receives a letter, a check will be sent to them automatically within six to eight weeks without the recipient having to file a claim.

clude increased interest following racial justice movements, new sources of funding and initiatives by the institutions intended to boost enrollment and graduation rates. The UNC System’s HBCU growth is partly attributed to changes in policy that allow more out-of-state students at campuses with strong demand and open capacity. “Our public HBCUs are tremendous assets for North Carolina, and they’re bringing in talented students from across the country,” Hans said. “That’s great

During the media call, his 92nd to date, Folwell told North State Journal there were many seven-figure claims over his two terms as treasurer that were memorable, but he highlighted two in particular.

“The one that really strikes me most is an individual who had just lost her husband unexpectedly due to an accident, and somebody had left her $200,000,” said Folwell. “And I believe it was Sen. (Joyce) Krawiec from Kernersville area who helped me and eventually tracked this person down.” Folwell also referenced a rural high school PTA in the western part of the state, saying the previous treasurer had put $100 in McDonald’s stock and didn’t tell anyone. That investment turned into a $27,000 windfall for the PTA at that school.

news for those schools and for the state’s economy.”

The system has also introduced new financial aid initiatives. The Next NC Scholarship aims to cover more than half of tuition and fees at any public university for North Carolina residents from households making $80,000 or less.

The system has also launched a pilot program called NC College Connect to simplify admissions at some universities and encourage more qualified high school graduates to pursue college degrees.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“The Supper at Emmaus” by Carvaggio (crica 1601) is a painting in the collection of the National Gallery in London.

PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The life and careers of Dale Folwell Portrait of a politician

Folwell’s childhood included physical labor and the expectation of more of it in adulthood

This is the first story in a five-week series on the life and career of outgoing North Carolina Treasurer Dale Folwell.

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Sitting behind his desk surrounded by shelves of awards, family photos and memorabilia collected over the years, North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell spoke softly about his early years living and working in the Winston-Salem area.

The pictures and keepsakes offer just a glimpse into the life of the 65-yearold North Carolina state treasurer, a man whose humble beginnings, love of motorcycles, diligent work ethic and passion for public service combined to help reach heights many thought improbable.

“I would say that my childhood, like a lot of children that were born in the late ’50s and early ’60s, changed in an unexpected way with the divorce of my parents,” Folwell said in a wide-ranging interview on his personal life and career with North State Journal. “So I often describe my situation as being poor in resources but rich in opportunity.”

He said he was born in the “old Rex hospital,” the same place he later had an office as assistant secretary of commerce overseeing the division of employment security.

“My office was literally one floor below the maternity ward where my mom first saw me in 1958,” Folwell said. His family had stops in Garner and Florida before settling in Winston-Salem. “And then that’s where I spent the rest of my life.”

Folwell, the youngest of children, described his early education as “very nontraditional” and said he was told in high school that he had an IQ of 108, which is fairly average.

“I had never made 100 on

anything before, so I was ecstatic of where I might have gotten eight extra credit points,” Folwell said with a laugh. “I’ve since learned that the 108 is not so hot and that, generally told based on some guidance I was given, I was going to make my living for the rest of my life with my hands and my back and my feet. So I decided I was going to be the best at that.”

Folwell started working at around age 10 and described being in class during high school for about an hour and a half a day.

He quickly built a diverse resume, delivering papers for the Salem Journal and Sentinel, working at the Cloverdale Shell when he was 11 years old, and serving as a dishwasher and, later, night cook at Mayberry’s Farmers Dairy Bar in Winston-Salem.

He also had second shift work at the Coca-Cola bottling plant, handling the loading of pallets carrying 55-pound cases of glass Coca-Cola bottles.

“When you’re that young and you work at a bottling company plant, you typically get assigned the hardest jobs,” Folwell said. “And the hardest jobs that Coca-Cola bottling company back then were hand-loading the 64-ounce glass cases of Coca-Cola.”

On the weekends, Folwell pulled stock at Coca-Cola but also started finding work in one of his passions as a motorcycle racing mechanic. While working as a mechanic, an overlapping opportunity arose with the expansion of Krispy Kreme and its vehicle fleet.

“I found out about the fact they pay people to take these vehicles places, so I would coordinate my racing mechanic activities with the racing schedule with wherever Krispy Kreme may need some of these vehicles,” Folwell said. “So in some instances, I get paid to drive the van to Louisville, Kentucky, or Indianapolis, or

Dale Folwell grew up as the youngest of three children in and around Winston-Salem. He began working before he was a teenager and quickly demonstrated an aptitude for finding practical solutions to problems — a skill he has used throughout his life.

Houston or whatever — I get paid to drive the van there. And then I get paid to be the mechanic while I was there, and then I drive back with the team back to Winston-Salem.”

During one of his

van-driving motorcycle racing trips, he met Larry Tuttle, a man who would change Folwell’s career trajectory. “Sometimes it could be five weeks or five months or 50 years before you realize what somebody may have done for

you in ways that you didn’t really appreciate at the time,” Folwell said of meeting Tuttle, who encouraged him to come to work at his garbage collection company.

Tuttle described the work as picking up trash 20 hours a week at 1,000 houses, and it paid $10 more an hour than Folwell was making at his other job at the time. The work, however, regularly took Folwell 40 hours to complete, affecting his job as a mechanic. It also presented an opportunity. Folwell presented Tuttle with a proposal to cut costs and time spent by ending service to customers who had not paid in years. The plan earned Folwell a $50 raise, and the amount of work became closer to the original 20-hour schedule he was originally offered.

In 1981, however, Tuttle told Folwell he had “too good a head on your shoulders and you’re too stubborn and you’re too smart to be a garbage collector.”

“I knew I had to leave, but I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t know where I was going to go,” Folwell said quietly.

Eventually, he walked to Winston-Salem State and enrolled in some courses.

COURTESY DALE FOLWELL

Folwell held many blue-collar jobs in his youth, including working as a dishwasher, cook, newspaper delivery person, and motorcycle racing mechanic. He still has many of his uniforms from those days, which serve as reminders of his past and the ingenuity and dedication he applied in those roles — qualities that would benefit him in his future as a public servant.

COURTESY DALE FOLWELL

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

The dumbest tax proposal in history

What happens if the stock market tanks for an entire year and rich people suffer a lot of ‘unrealized capital LOSSES’?

THE PROBLEM WITH really bad ideas in politics is the people who propose them sometimes get elected.

One of the worst ideas is the Kamala Harris proposal to tax the unrealized gains of stocks owned by wealthy individuals.

Harris and Sen. Elizabeth Warren like to portray this as yet another one of their Robin Hood-esque “Tax The Rich!” schemes which will force “only” a very few billionaires to pay their fair share, doggonit!

This one is particularly pernicious according to a well-respected accountant. During a recent conversation, he flat-out said: “This is the dumbest tax proposal in history ― and that’s saying something because so many have been really bad and stupid!”

What Harris, Warren and their progressive socialist Democrat posse fail to realize is that if it ever passes into law, every taxpayer who owns even one share of stock or a small one-family home ultimately will take the brunt of it one day.

Here’s their proposal interspersed by clarifying comments by the accountant in quotations who will remain anonymous but probably speaks for 99% of his profession:

Every year, anyone with a net worth over $100 million will have to pay up to 25% of appreciated value in their stock holdings in a new unrealized capital gains tax.

“First off, since when did any tax start out solely to ‘soak the rich’ which didn’t wind up eventually affecting everyone? The income tax passed in 1913 was supposed to raise taxes on “only” the top 4% of income wage earners. It wasn’t long before everyone was paying income taxes, right?”

Harris and Warren are deliberately vague about how such a tax would be administered

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

and collected. Apparently, accountants will have to measure the amount any stock appreciated against last year’s final value to determine how much their stocks increased. If their stock value went up $1,000, that would be considered the “unrealized capital gain” which is unrealized only because the stock has not been sold yet. The investor has chosen to leave it alone to keep on appreciating in value hopefully for years to come.

“This will drive accountants crazy,” said the accountant. “Every stock for every portfolio? We may have to analyze a million stock holdings and trades during the year for a single wealthy investor.

“This might as well be called ‘The Accountants Lifetime Employment Act.’ We would hate to waste time doing it, but someone will have to pay us a lot of money to do it and do it right annually.”

Average taxpayers will be at risk because rich people will sell a certain amount of other stock holdings to pay their taxes. Such action will drive down the prices of those stocks ― the same stocks that more than 62% of the American public hold in their private IRAs and 401(k) plans through mutual funds and the like.

“Every spring, when the unrealized capital gains taxes of rich people come due, the stock market will swoon as they sell off their stocks to pay the tax. And so will the retirement accounts of hundreds of millions of citizens,” said the accountant.

“What happens if the stock market tanks for an entire year and rich people suffer a lot of ‘unrealized capital LOSSES’? If our tax system were truly fair and reciprocal, each rich person would be able to deduct the full value of those unrealized losses, which means rich

ABC News debate debacle should not be repeated

Moderators David Muir and Linsey Davis quickly turned the debate into a three-on-one, with both Muir and Davis “factchecking” Trump repeatedly.

WHILE THE much-anticipated ABC News presidential debate between GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has come and gone, the debate over how it was handled is still raging.

The terms that were agreed upon by the candidates, with some reluctance from the Harris campaign, were to largely follow the CNN model from June. That included having the mic muted when the other candidate was speaking and no fact-checks from the moderators for either of them.

A sticking point for the Harris team going into the debate was not wanting the mics muted. Though they initially stood their ground and said they were going to follow CNN’s format, just hours before the debate, ABC News was reportedly considering allowing for the mics to be unmuted if they felt the discussion/ debate allowed for it.

As it turns out, that’s exactly what happened, something that Harris used to her advantage during the oftentimes contentious event. Further, moderators David Muir and Linsey Davis quickly turned the debate into a three- on-one, with both Muir and Davis “fact- checking” Trump repeatedly (and sometimes with incorrect information) while ignoring outright falsehoods told by Harris throughout the course of the debate.

Though Harris started out the debate wobbly, refusing to answer a question central to this race considering she’s the current vice president — “Do you believe Americans are better off than they were four years ago?” — it didn’t take long for her to figure out how one-sided the moderators were going to be.

Naturally, she settled in at that point with scripted lines on the ready, likely full well knowing she’d have full rein of the evening.

While some pundits have argued that Trump should have been prepared for the ambush, the point remains that the debate shouldn’t have played out as it did, in the interest of the public’s trust.

If ABC News had planned all along to do fact-checks of both candidates, that would have been one thing.

But all the so-called fact-checks were one-sided, which did a disservice to voters who deserved a fair and balanced debate, not yet another debacle with the scale being tipped in favor of one of the candidates, as happened during the infamous Candy Crowley/Mitt Romney moment from the 2012 presidential campaign.

And yet one of the co-moderators seemed proud of what they had pulled off.

During a post-debate interview with the Los Angeles Times, Linsey Davis said the decision was made to fact-check Trump because of how

people would pay billions less than they would otherwise in down years.

“However, our current tax system limits capital losses to only $3,000 per year. A billionaire who lost $100 million of value in, say, Nvidia, during the year would have to spread that loss at $3,000 per year for the next 33,333 years.”

So, good luck on that, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett.

And what about the next tax year? Would capital gains be calculated based on the stepped-up value that was taxed at the end of the last year or would it go back to the original purchase date and be retaxed all over again?

“Eventually, the same geniuses who came up with this for stocks will look at everyone’s unrealized capital gains in, say, their homes or commercial real estate and think, ‘Hey! Why not apply the same unrealized capital gains tax to real estate? We will raise trillions in tax revenue so we can spend it on more programs to cancel student debt and pay other countries to adopt the Green New Deal.’

“This is categorically the dumbest idea anyone has ever proposed in American history. How does anyone get close to being president of the United States of America without knowing anything about taxes, economics, business or accounting?”

That is a good question. Joe Biden has already proved how dangerous it can be. Kamala Harris should not be allowed to make it worse.

the CNN debate played out.

“People were concerned that statements were allowed to just hang and not (be) disputed by the candidate (President Joe) Biden, at the time, or the moderators,” she told the LA Times.

That sounded an awful lot like saying the quiet part out loud, that Davis did not want the same thing happening to Harris that happened to Biden, where the latter’s disastrous June debate performance was the catalyst for Democrats talking him into exiting the presidential race a few weeks later.

If the media outlets who host these things want to keep doing so, that’s fine. But no Republican presidential candidate or nominee should participate in them again until they negotiate ironclad assurances that the favorites game will not be played.

It’s a tall order, to be sure, considering the wildly partisan makeup of the mainstream media. But debates are an important part of the process of people making up their minds about the candidates, so hopefully this can get sorted out by 2028. Because, unfortunately, all hope on this front for 2024 is lost.

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

NC’s economy depends on strong public schools

By 2030, nearly 2 million jobs will require high-quality postsecondary degrees or credentials.

AMONG THE MANY ways strong public schools benefit everyone in North Carolina, no one should overlook one of the most important: our 21st-century economy.

No matter what type of education makes sense for your family or friends, thriving public schools contribute to the well-being of our shared economy. Public schools have been a cornerstone of America and its status as an economic power since its founding almost 250 years ago — and now they’re more important than ever before.

We need public schools to keep expanding to improve our families’ quality of life. But the economy can’t grow without an educated, skilled workforce.

That’s not just my opinion as a leader in public education, it’s also the position of North Carolina’s business community itself.

The NC Chamber, for example, lists education and talent supply as the first of its three pillars of success for our state’s future.

“Today, nearly half of North Carolina’s employers say they’re struggling to find the talent they need to fill open positions,” the Chamber says. “By 2030, nearly 2 million jobs will require high-quality postsecondary degrees or credentials.”

However, fewer than half of eligible students are enrolled in North Carolina’s high-quality prekindergarten system when the goal should be at least 75%, the Chamber adds.

“As the beneficiaries of strong school systems, community colleges, universities and workforce training programs, businesses have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of education in North Carolina,” the Chamber concludes. “Incentivized to engage and encourage excellence, the business community must serve as a convening and thoughtful voice in an oftencontentious arena.”

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Similarly, the public-private Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina touts our state’s well-educated workforce as a key tool in recruiting new businesses.

As state Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders has put it: “Our investment in North Carolina’s greatest asset — its people — will ensure the state has a diverse, skilled, and healthy workforce ready to support immediate and future business needs.”

Yet, as a recent Commerce Department report noted, North Carolina’s elementary and secondary public school current expenditures lag well behind national averages. That does not create a favorable trajectory for our state’s longterm prosperity.

It’s important to acknowledge that not everyone needs a four-year college degree, even for some of our state’s most advanced industries. But the community colleges providing technical and vocational training need students who show up with strong high school educations — and most of them come from our local public schools.

Every community across our growing state needs a strong civic foundation and a healthy economy built on a well-educated workforce. That’s one of the main reasons why everyone benefits from a strong public school system.

North Carolina competes constantly with other states and nations for jobs and business investments. Healthy public schools have been vital to our state’s success so far, and they’ll be critical for its future. Put simply, public education does the public good. To learn more, go to NCSBA — Public Education Matters.

Jennifer Thompson is a physical therapist and department manager at Cherokee Indian Hospital, and president of the North Carolina School Boards Association.

Kamala Harris won the debate but maybe not the election

“If she isn’t able to move the needle in the polls at least a little bit, maybe that means the country just isn’t buying what she’s selling.”

Nate Silver

WHEN I WAS in the polling business many years ago, our reports always started with the mood of the electorate, whether things were moving in the right direction or seriously off on the wrong track, then moved to two sections on character and issues.

Those sections were usually pretty balanced. We advised candidates on which character traits and issue stands worked for them and which did not. We suggested how they could emphasize their strengths and address or pivot away from their weaknesses.

However, there’s not much need for such a balanced approach in this presidential election, or about the candidates’ first and possibly only television debate, the one on ABC News on Sept. 10. With only minor exceptions, character traits work for Vice President Kamala Harris. And with only minor exceptions, issue stands work for former President Donald Trump.

The obvious debate strategy for Trump would have been to hammer home his advantages on issues, starting with two issues on which voters give dismal grades to the Biden-Harris administration, then going on to the raft of issues on which Harris, in her previous campaign for president, took stands widely unpopular during this one.

From time to time, and succinctly in his closing statement, Trump did this. But he also went off on alarums and excursions, which, however entertaining for his rally audiences, seemed distracting or puzzling for the moveable voters whose votes he needs.

As Fox News’ Brit Hume noted, Harris “baited him successfully, which is the story of the debate in my view.” Such diversions point to character weaknesses: an unwillingness to focus, a preoccupation with personal slights and a lack of discipline. In contrast, Harris was clearly well prepared and disciplined in reciting favorably worded phrases.

“We’re not going back,” Harris said at one point. “It’s time to turn the page.” That’s absurd from one point of view. Nothing she said indicated that a Harris-Walz administration’s policies would be much different from the policies of the Biden-Harris administration. But her words do point to what a majority of voters have found troubling about Trump’s character.

Harris benefited as well from the ABC moderators’ erroneous fact-checking when they argued that no one favors ninth-month abortions, that the Springfield city manager must be a conclusive source of events there, and that violent crime rates declined sharply in 2021 and 2022.

To their credit, the ABC moderators, after raising the Harris-favoring abortion issue early, then asked why she — actually, anonymous campaign staff tweeters — has renounced her 2019 presidential campaign promises to ban fracking, institute mandatory gun buybacks and decriminalize illegal border crossings.

After perfunctorily repeated, obviously rehearsed lines about how she had sort of supported fracking, she segued into comparing her “middle-class” childhood to Trump’s, citing her underwhelming proposals to increase

homeownership, and mentioning a high school friend assaulted by a stepfather and her work “protecting seniors from scams.” Not just a word salad but a whole buffet, with a dash of Tabasco to provoke her opponent.

CNN’s instant poll on who won the debate has Harris ahead 63% to 37%. This is almost the exact opposite of the CNN count on the June 27 debate, which had Trump ahead of President Joe Biden 67% to 33%, and may hearten Harris backers.

But the result is in line with the average of polls taken immediately after the five presidential debates in September and October 2016 and 2020: Fifty-nine percent thought the Democrat won, as against 35% for Trump. So this debate response looks like those in years when Trump won the electoral vote by 77,736 popular votes in three states in 2016 and lost it by 42,918 popular votes in three states in 2020.

Predebate polling showed Harris ahead 48% to 47% in the RealClearPolitics average of recent polls and 49% to 47% in Nate Silver’s Silver Bulletin. Silver was projecting her with a 50% to 49% popular vote edge in November but gave Trump a 61% chance of an Electoral College majority.

But any projections are contingent on events. Nate Cohn, proprietor of the highly rated New York Times/Siena College poll, which showed a predebate Trump lead of 48% to 47%, noted that 28% said “they needed to learn more” about Harris, as compared to only 9% about Trump. “More than anything, voters say they want to hear more about where she stands on the issues,” Cohn wrote. “And a majority of voters say she’s a ‘risky’ choice and ‘more of the same’ — hardly an enviable combination.”

Did she resolve those qualms in her favor in the debate? Not in my view, but I’ll give the final word to Silver. “Harris got the debate she wanted. If she isn’t able to move the needle in the polls at least a little bit, maybe that means the country just isn’t buying what she’s selling.”

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

Springfield and Aurora: Warning signs for America

AS THE NEWS media continues to celebrate and prop up the candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris, the consequences of her and President Joe Biden’s policies are wreaking havoc on cities and communities across the United States.

Springfield, Ohio, and Aurora, Colorado, are two examples that have recently earned some notoriety.

Matt Himes with The Blaze recently published an article that simply contained quotes from real people who live in Springfield, Ohio, who addressed their city’s commission meetings in August.

As Himes put it, they were “people you won’t see quoted in the New York Times.”

I would encourage anyone to read what they had to say. The story of Springfield they told was abhorrent.

According to the city’s own Immigrant Accountability Response Team, the city has seen an influx of approximately 20,000 immigrants, mostly from Haiti, from 2020 to 2024. Keep in mind, the official population of Springfield is only about 58,000 people — and that’s a 7,000-person decline over the last 24 years. So, a 20,000-person increase is massive.

Residents complained of trash piling up on streets, dangerous driving, homelessness, people squatting on their properties, overstressed health care services and a host of other issues you would expect from a sudden, unplanned, 34% population increase.

As one resident noted, on a practical level, “We don’t have the resources to do this properly.”

But other residents spoke of far more acute problems.

One resident named Shannon said she had seen immigrants butchering roadkill on the side of the road, stealing animals from farmers and leaving their decapitated heads, and making stew out of birds they caught in local parks.

In another report by The Federalist, a man had called police in Springfield after seeing a group of four Haitian immigrants hunting geese in a public park.

“I’m sitting here, I’m riding on the trail, I’m going to my orientation for my job today, and I see a group of Haitian people, there was about four of ’em, they all had geese in their hand,” according to a 911 recording.

As Shannon told the Springfield City Commission:

“This is insanity, and it has to stop. What will become of Springfield? Where will we be in five years? The thought terrifies me. Will it be some sort of dystopian wasteland — with most of our original residents having moved away and those that cannot afford to move being locked inside their homes living in fear?

“This thought is keeping me awake at night. I just want the old Springfield back. I know it was far from perfect, but at least it was still ours.”

In Aurora, we are seeing what happens when violent gang members are allowed to enter our country unchecked. Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman said last month that Venezuelan gangs had infiltrated several apartment complexes in the city.

The statement came after video of armed gunmen knocking down doors in an Aurora apartment complex went viral.

There are differing reports about the gang’s level of control of the properties, but that argument is almost beside the point.

The fact is: Heavily armed Venezuelan gang members are acting with impunity in Aurora — and the people of Aurora are having to live with that because the BidenHarris administration specifically (and the Democratic Party generally) have abandoned securing the border.

As the House Committee on Homeland Security reported in June, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol had encountered nearly 10 million people illegally crossing the Southwest border since Biden and Harris took office. There are also another 2 million “get-aways” reported in that time.

For comparison, there were only about 3.1 million encounters at the border during the entirety of President Donald Trump’s first term.

If Harris is elected president, there is no indication she would suddenly start policing the border — or deporting those she has already invited here.

It’s more likely that your hometown will follow the paths of Springfield and Aurora.

Newt Gingrich was the 50th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

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Vice President Kamala Harris waves before boarding Air Force Two on Monday in Philadelphia.

Murphy to Manteo Jones & Blount

PIEDMONT

EAST

NC coast suffers flooding from storm NATION & WORLD

Meteorologists categorized the amount of rain as a “1,000-year flood”

By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press

PARTS OF southeastern

North Carolina were still underwater Tuesday after a storm that wasn’t quite organized enough to become a named storm dropped historic amounts of rain on an area that has suffered floods of a lifetime at least four other times in the past 25 years.

The flash flooding closed dozens of roads in Brunswick County, including U.S. Highway 17, which is the main coastal route. Floodwaters swamped the highway at several points for most of the day, trapping some drivers on high ground that became an island.

Emergency workers brought food and water to people as they waited for the waters to recede, Brunswick County emergency officials said. No deaths were reported, but dozens of roads in the county were damaged and many washed out.

Monday’s deluge centered on Carolina Beach south of Wilmington, where more than 18 inches of rain fell in 12 hours. That amount of rain in that period qualifies as a so-called 1,000-year flood expected only once in that era, meteorologists at the National Weather Service office in Wilmington said.

Several blocks of the coastal town were flooded to the

WCPSS from page A1

$207,500 worth of service contracts for TEC that had purchase orders attached. That analysis included a single invoice of $90,000 for professional development and coaching sessions ordered by the WCPSS Office of Equity Affairs. Most of the invoices and payments in the current batch reviewed by NSJ show the payments were for “professional development and coaching sessions” costing $1,500 for each participant. Some were labeled “job embedded equity coaching” at a rate of $2,500 per day per participant. An invoice for a “racial equity institute two-day institute” held in December 2019 and again in March 2020 cost $28,000. That invoice was signed off on by then-WCPSS Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services Paul Koh, and the invoice shows the WCPSS Counseling and Student Services Department as the ordering authority.

LGC from page A1

ities in the Rowan-Salisbury School System and Kannapolis City Schools. A significant portion of this money will go toward constructing a new school in Salisbury for third through eighth grades, as well as building a 31,000-square-foot addition to Fred L. Wilson Elementary School in Kannapolis. The county plans to repay the debt using general fund money without increasing taxes.

Macon County received authorization for $69 million in financing to build a new high school, a replacement for the existing Franklin High School, which reportedly had safety issues and compliance problems with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The new facility will accommodate 1,400 students. The total cost of the project is expected to exceed $100 million, with additional funding coming from a $62 million state needs-based capital fund grant.

The Onslow County Water and Sewer Authority obtained approval for $35 mil-

bottom of car doors for hours

Monday as the system, known as Potential Tropical Cyclone No. 8, never organized enough to become the eighth named tropical storm of the season, Helene.

It’s not the first historic flood in the region by any measure.

Hurricane Diana in 1984 brought more than 18 inches of rain to the area, and forecasters noted that it was the first time a tropical event had dropped a foot of rain to the area.

Since then, the area just southwest of Wilmington saw

The “justification for services” on the two-day institute documentation says, “All prior SEL Institute Equity services were covered by a contract with the Office of Equity Affairs” and that federal funds would be used to complete the training. Also in 2020, a “virtual” workshop series called “equity in education” was purchased for four high schools as well as the Wake Young Men’s Leadership Academy. The high schools included Holly Springs High, Middle Creek High and two sessions for Fuquay-Varina High. The overall cost was $16,000, and it was noted that the principals of those schools requested the training.

The “equity in education” training was described as “virtual training finding common definitions of equity, oppression, culturally responsive actions, and coaching and supporting others to grow and change in order to better serve our most marginalized students and families” in order to comply with the d istrict’s “stra-

lion in revenue bonds. These funds will be used to install a new 36,000-foot, 18-inch sewer main and construct two associated pump stations. The project also includes the rehabilitation of two existing pump stations. This work is intended to connect the Swansboro and Piney Green sewage systems and expand sewer service to previously untreated areas. Onslow County also obtained approval for $16 million in limited obligation bonds to renovate and expand Northwoods Park Middle School in Jacksonville and increase the school’s capacity to 656 students. Completion is expected by April 2025.

In another $35 million approval, the N.C. Medical Care Commission received authorization for conduit revenue bonds. These funds will be loaned to EveryAge (formerly United Church Homes and Service) to purchase portions of a High Point retirement community in Forsyth County. Lee County’s request for $28 million in limited obligation bonds was also approved.

placed on rising temperatures because of climate change, said Tim Armstrong, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Wilmington.

“The warmer the air, the more moisture it can hold,” Armstrong said Tuesday.

As the three massive floods from unnamed storms show, it doesn’t take a powerful hurricane, just the right combination of atmospheric factors to end up with big floods over small areas.

“The worst of Monday’s flood was centered over just parts of two counties,” Armstrong said.

The rain from the system had moved into southeast Virginia on Tuesday. Along the Outer Banks, the storm closed North Carolina 12 on Ocracoke Island and threatened several homes in Rodanthe, where erosion and rising sea levels have destroyed more than a half-dozen beachfront homes this decade.

The Atlantic hurricane season continues through the end of November.

20 inches) of rain in Hurricane Floyd in 1999, which was once the benchmark for heavy rain.

An unnamed storm in the wake of Hurricane Matthew in 2010 dropped about 11 inches of rain on Brunswick County, and a 2015 deluge as Hurricane Joaquin moved well offshore dropped 20 inches.

And in 2018, Hurricane Florence brought what is now the touchstone for historic flooding across the region with 30 inches of rain.

The blame for recurring floods of a lifetime can be

tegic goals around equality and cultural proficiency.”

A racial equity coaching seminar series ordered by Counseling and Student Services in 2021 cost $27,000 with a breakout rate of $3,000 per session. During the 2022-23 fiscal year, a single document was produced with a total of $39,000. That total was broken into two “equity leadership seminars” and “coaching” charges of $30,000 and $9,000. The time period given was January to June 2023. The seminar sessions were $10,000 each and coaching sessions cost $3,000 each.

A December 2023 invoice for “direct coaching support for the Office of Early Learning showed a cost of $12,000.

The most recent payment WCPSS made to TEC was for multiple training items requested by the Office of Equity Affairs in July 2024. The total dollar figure was $78,000.

The invoice shows four separate types of training and workshops requested. These

The county plans to use the funds to construct a new 33,000-square-foot library in O.T. Sloan Park and purchase communications equipment for emergency services.

The town of Chapel Hill secured approval for $27 million to lease a building that will house its police department, emergency operations center, and technology solutions team. This move is necessitated by the poor condition of the existing police facility and its location on a coal ash disposal site.

In Wake County, the Raleigh Housing Authority received authorization for $21 million in conduit revenue bonds. The funds will be used to develop Parkside Apartments, a 144unit low- and moderate-income multifamily rental housing project.

Several smaller projects also received financing approvals:

• Morehead City: $4.9 million for a new fire station to replace one damaged by Hurricane Florence in 2019.

• Reidsville: $4.9 million for a backup power source for

Ariz. man accused of online terror threats arrested Flagstaff, Ariz.

An Arizona man wanted for allegedly making online terroristic threats has been arrested in Montana, authorities said Sunday. Flagstaff police said 36-yearold Justin Wayne Hill was taken into custody Sunday in Bozeman. Police said they received reports Friday of threats “associated with mass shooting incidents posted to various school, government and business review platforms” and a warrant was issued for Hill’s arrest. A photo of the car he might have been driving with an Arizona license plate was released by police and Hill was arrested soon afterward.

In an updated hurricane outlook last month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration was still predicting a highly active season thanks to near-record sea surface temperatures and the possibility of La Nina. Emergency management officials have urged people to stay prepared.

Elsewhere in the Atlantic, Gordon remained a tropical depression as it swirled through open ocean waters. Gordon could either dissolve in upcoming days or strengthen back into a tropical storm, forecasters said.

items are part of an overall program described as “Equity Facilitation Seminar and Equity Coaching for Growth” that was provided from June 26 through Aug. 9. Facilitation skills workshop: Two-day seminar at $8,000 per day, $16,000 total Prep/training/co-design sessions: Four sessions at $8,000 each, $32,000 total Pair coaching sessions: Four virtual sessions at 3,000 each, $12,000 total Individual coaching sessions: 20 total sessions at $450 each, $18,000 total “Equity training” is not the only rising cost in the district. Since its inception in 201415, the WCPSS Office of Equity Affairs (OEA) has spent $12.135 million, according to spending and budget documents obtained by NSJ.

In its first year, the OEA’s budget was $250,519. Documents obtained for 2023-24 show the OEA’s cost totaling $1,809,759. That cost includes salaries, travel, workshops and other spending,

its water treatment plant.

• Morrisville: $4.5 million for a portion of a parking deck as part of a town center development project.

• Morehead City: An additional $1.8 million for a fire department ladder truck.

• Lincolnton: $1.6 million to rehabilitate parts of its water treatment plant.

• Vance County: $1.6 million to extend water service and refurbish a water tank.

• Rural Hall: $1.5 million toward a new fire station.

• Wake Forest: $1.4 million for parks and recreation facilities.

• Tryon: $852,459 for a fire engine and $612,355 for sewer pipe rehabilitation.

• Black Mountain: $194,000 for police and administrative vehicles.

The LGC also approved numerous smaller financing resolutions for lead service line inventory projects across the state. The largest approvals were $400,000 each for the Fayetteville Public Works Commission, Henderson and Sanford.

Minn. motorist kills 16-year-old by driving into crowd

Minneapolis

A Minnesota woman who was involved in a sidewalk brawl in downtown Minneapolis jumped in an SUV and drove through the crowd, killing a 16-yearold girl and injuring five other people. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the 22-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of murder shortly after the events early Saturday. He said there is “no question” that the motorist intended to drive through the crowd. It wasn’t immediately clear if alcohol played any role, police said. The 16-year-old girl was taken to a hospital where she died. Police said a 29-year-old woman sustained life-threatening injuries, and two 14-yearold girls and two men, ages 24 and 28, were treated for minor injuries.

Fuel truck explosion kills at least 15, injures more in Haiti Port-at-Prince, Haiti

A tanker truck carrying gasoline in Haiti on Saturday flipped and exploded, killing at least 15 people and seriously injuring 40 others, officials said. Prime Minister Garry Conille provided the figures in an X post. Saturday’s explosion happened in Miragoane, a city of 60,000 people that was hit by a strong earthquake three years ago. In 2021, 75 people were killed in Haiti’s secondlargest city, Cap Haitien, when another fuel truck overturned and unleashed a fireball that swept through several homes and businesses that were built closely next to each other.

Boat capsizes in Nigeria, drowning at least 40 Abuja, Nigeria

A boat carrying mostly farmers capsized on a river in northwest Nigeria, drowning at least 40 people, President Bola Tinubu said Sunday. The accident happened in Zamfara state as farmers were trying to get to their land, Tinubu said in a statement. The president promised support for the victims and directed emergency agencies to assess the incident. Authorities said five people were rescued but 40 are still missing. It was not immediately clear how many people were on the boat when it went down.

BRUNSWICK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

A Brunswick County highway was flooded with damage to its pavement after a storm dropped historic amounts of rain on coastal North Carolina.

catastrophe

questions about when normal

shelter-in-place or stay-at-home

majority of Americans “new normal.” end of this month.

China lied about the origin of the tried to tell the world there were only worldwide panic, economic collapse and being thrown out of work.

taxpayer at least $2.4 trillion in added Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the the U.S. dollar were not the reserve to fund any of these emergency fear of rampant in ation and currency aberrant ways and decisions through Diplomacy has obviously not worked world of 21st century health, hygiene communist regimes never take the blame remorse, because that is not what They take advantage of every weakness pushing until they win or the event happens such as the Chernobyl believe that event, not the Star Wars to the dissolution of the Soviet Union Chernobyl.

Cooper stated during don’t know yet” if the asked as to the vague ones like “we of this state who undetermined thousands of cases asked and then had questions about get asked, there is people to treat those can start getting back or are people who sick. levels become a bad society were supposed

we begin to get back to normal

The 3 big questions

The comfort

How China will pay for this COVID-19 catastrophe

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”

ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after this COVID-19 virus dissipates around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this catastrophe one way or another.

fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to normal are treated in some circles with contempt.

WALTER E. WILLIAMS

They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept without question what the government tells us about when it’s safe to begin the process of returning back to normalcy.

Fixing college corruption

Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl.

No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those questions. And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, the more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand answers.

Sponsored by

AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with corruption. The nancial squeeze resulting from COVID-19 o ers opportunities for a bit of remediation. Let’s rst examine what might be the root of academic corruption, suggested by the title of a recent study, “Academic Grievance Studies and the Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was done by Areo, an opinion and analysis digital magazine. By the way, Areo is short for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by John Milton in defense of free speech.

business & economy

In order to put the crisis caused by China in perspective, zero worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th century alone can be directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian u,” 1968 “Hong Kong u,” 1977 “Russian u” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the massive 1918 “Spanish u” pandemic also had its origins in China.

Since when did questioning government at all levels become a

Leaders at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but answer with details that give their statements believability.

We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, ourselves, and our communities safe. But we should also still continue to ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home measures are understandable, they should also have an expiration date.

AT&T Southeast strike ends, 17K return to work

already talking about the possibility debt we owe them as one way to get they have caused the US. Don’t hold your “Jubilee” to happen but ask your elected accountable in tangible nancial ways for expected to operate as responsible citizens of nation.

course, is my family. I’m worried I will. After the 2009 pandemic, all of this brings up prefer not to repeat. most everyone has

This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, shape, or form. So while we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new normal.”

Not one little bit.

Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say that something has gone drastically wrong in academia, especially within certain elds within the humanities. They call these elds “grievance studies,” where scholarship is not so much based upon nding truth but upon attending to social grievances. Grievance scholars bully students, administrators and other departments into adhering to their worldview. The worldview they promote is neither scienti c nor rigorous. Grievance studies consist of disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, gender studies, queer studies, sexuality and critical race studies.

Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym

and is a regular contributor to RedState and

ATLANTA — AT&T reached tentative agreements with AT&T Southeast and AT&T West for new union contracts, marking a significant milestone after an ongoing strike by the provider’s workers, technicians and customer service representatives. Communications Workers of America (CWA) negotiated new contracts in the Southeast covering 17,000 workers who install, maintain and support AT&T’s residential and business wireline telecommunications network in North Carolina and eight other states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee.

the seriousness of the virus and the need uneasy with how people who simply ask when things can start getting back to circles with contempt. as a society simply must accept without tells us about when it’s safe to begin the normalcy. us, and we have the right to ask those stay-at-home orders are in place all over the them get in states, such as Michigan, feeling isolated and/or anxious about providing for their families, will demand levels should be as forthcoming as they and again, not vague answers, but answer statements believability. what we can to keep our families, safe. But we should also still continue because while reasonable stay-at-home they should also have an expiration date. and it is not normal. Not in any way, should remain vigilant and stay safe, at comfortable with this so-called “new

In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, Lindsay and Boghossian started submitting bogus academic papers to academic journals in cultural, queer, race, gender, fat and sexuality studies to determine if they would pass peer review and be accepted for publication. Acceptance of dubious research that journal editors found sympathetic to their intersectional or postmodern leftist vision of the world would prove the problem of low academic standards.

Several of the fake research papers were accepted for publication. The Fat Studies journal published a hoax paper that argued the term bodybuilding was exclusionary and should be replaced with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive politicized performance.” One reviewer said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article and believe it has an important contribution to make to the eld and this journal.”

The five-year agreement includes across-theboard wage increases of 19.33% with an additional 3% increase for wire technicians and utility operations, addressing the core issues of low wages and health care costs. The agreement holds health care premiums steady in the first year and lowers them in the second and third years, with modest monthly increases in the final two years. The agreement in the Southeast ends the 30-day strike — the longest telecommunications strike in the region’s history.

Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.

written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah RedState and Legal Insurrection.

Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month.

Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.

We need transparency and honesty from our

There is 100% agreement, outside of China, that COVID-19 originated in Wuhan Province probably from the completely unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. Some believe it came out of a

Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of

“THIS IS in it” (Psalm I know that working from be glad” as and dad, the have to be pandemic.

THIS WEEK, according to members and state and local governments, Americans the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak. muted — after all, trends can easily reverse have abided by recommendations and orders. to stay at home; they’ve practiced social they’ve donned masks.

If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like must do this out of an abundance of caution.”

Postal Service ready for mail-in ballots insists postmaster n.c. FAST FACTS

The result: a reduction in expected hospitalization According to the University of Washington Metrics and Evaluation model most oft Trump administration, the expected need peak outbreak was revised down by over ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the number

For me, making. As Corinthians a iction, so a iction, with God.”

It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of

Postal employees’ training is already being beefed up

By David Sharp The Associated Press

“Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was accepted for publication by A lia, a feminist journal for social workers. The paper consisted in part of a rewritten passage from Mein Kampf. Two other hoax papers were published, including “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape paper eventually forced Boghossian, Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer had gured out what they were doing.

“We are incredibly proud of our members and thank CWA members, retirees and allies across the country for the solidarity that has sustained us through these complex negotiations,” CWA District 3 Vice President Richard Honeycutt said in a release. “Their willingness to make sacrifices to win major improvements in their contract, not just for themselves but also for future members, is truly inspiring.

Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing?

IN A LETTER released Monday, U.S. Postmaster

Some papers accepted for publication in academic journals advocated training men like dogs and punishing white male college students for historical slavery by asking them to sit in silence on the oor in chains during class and to be expected to learn from the discomfort. Other papers celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life choice and advocated treating privately conducted masturbation as a form of sexual violence against women. Typically, academic journal editors send submitted papers out to referees for review. In recommending acceptance for publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing praise.

“Our bargaining team has worked tirelessly to negotiate a contract that provides significant wage increases that reflect our union members’ hard work and dedication and a medical plan that ensures that our members and their families have affordable, comprehensive healthcare services. You built this for every member who has walked a picket line, spoken out for the contract they deserved, or joined their coworkers for union action.”

That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.

General Louis DeJoy assured state election officials that he’d work with them to handle their warnings of problems with election mail delivery during the primary season. He also insisted that the Postal Service will be ready for the flood of mail-in ballots ahead of the November election.

He said the Postal Service already dealt with most concerns raised by election officials after they warned that properly addressed election mail was returned — a problem that can cause voters to be automatically placed on inactive status — and that mail-

Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran certain grievance studies concepts through the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often they appeared in our press over the years. He found huge increases in the usages of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” “critical race theory” and “whiteness.” All of this is being taught to college students, many of whom become primary and secondary school teachers who then indoctrinate our young people.

The four-year agreement at AT&T West negotiated by CWA covers 8,500 workers in California and Nevada and improves overtime and scheduling, and it includes a wage boost, bringing the compounded increase to 15.01%.

Union members will meet to review the tentative agreements before holding ratification votes in each region. The bargaining committees in each district have recommended ratification.

The budget outline signals a new phase of confrontation with lawmakers

By Isabel Debre The Associated Press

I doubt whether the coronaviruscaused nancial crunch will give college and university administrators, who are a crossbreed between a parrot and jelly sh, the guts and backbone to restore academic respectability. Far too often, they get much of their political support from campus grievance people who are members of the faculty and diversity and multicultural administrative o ces.

The best hope lies with boards of trustees, though many serve as yes-men for the university president. I think that a good start would be to nd 1950s or 1960s catalogs. Look at the course o erings at a time when college graduates knew how to read, write and compute, and make them today’s curricula. Another helpful tool would be to give careful consideration to eliminating all classes/majors/minors containing the word “studies,” such as women, Asian, black or queer studies. I’d bet that by restoring the traditional academic mission to colleges, they would put a serious dent into the COVID-19 budget shortfall.

BUENOS AIRES, Argen-

tina — Libertarian President Javier Milei of Argentina presented the 2025 budget to Congress late Sunday. The budget outline outlines policy priorities that reflect his key pledge to eliminate the country’s chronic fiscal deficit and signals a new phase of confrontation with lawmakers.

In an unprecedented move, Milei personally pitched the budget to Congress instead of his economy minister, lambasting Argentina’s history of macroeconomic mismanagement and promising to veto anything that compromised his tough slog of tight fiscal policy. The president’s budget proposal followed a week of political clashes in the legislature — where Milei controls less than 15% of the seats — over spend-

Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.

The cavalier manner virus, covered up its spread 3,341 related deaths has millions of Americans needlessly The crisis has cost the debt plus trillions more markets and nancial outlets. currency, we would not measures without immediate depreciation. China has to pay for their economic and nancial to bring China into the and fair trade. Totalitarian or express sincere regret totalitarian governments they nd in adversaries adversaries push back. That is, unless an exogenous meltdown in 1986. Some program of Reagan, led

To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about

Here’s the problem: We still don’t know questions that will allow the economy to

Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.

First, what is the true coronavirus fatality important because it determines whether be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue more liberalized society that presumes wide

If you are re ect on this God’s example this di cult con dent we In this same neighbors In Concord, money to buy health care

AApproved Logos April 15,

Since when did questioning government at all levels become a thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed

My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat.

We’ve seen case fatality rates — the number the number of identi ed COVID-19 cases and the denominator are likely wrong. We people have actually died of coronavirus. number has been overestimated, given that of death, particularly among elderly patients, sources suggest the number is dramatically many people are dying at home.

Perhaps COVID-19 is Senators in Washington of China forgiving $1.2 China to “pay” for the damage breath waiting for a Chinese representatives to hold It is about time they are the world like any other

But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone

Hill, senio

Even more importantly, we have no clue actually have coronavirus. Some scientists of identi ed cases could be an order of magnitude number of people who have had coronavirus

It’s okay to ask questions about when we begin to get back to normal

The comfort and hope

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”

“THIS IS THE DAY the lord has made, in it” (Psalm 118:24).

Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.

Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if the state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.

in ballots were postmarked on time but arrived after election deadlines.

DeJoy said that postal employees’ training is already being beefed up. The Postal Service is already in constant contact with election officials and will work with them to address quality problems that caused incorrect deliveries or mail to be returned to sender. Officials said he’d work with them to avoid a repeat of “flawed ballot envelope designs,” though many envelopes were already designed and printed.

ident Donald Trump continues to falsely claim he won in 2020 and seized upon the mail delivery troubles to sow doubts about the upcoming election.

I know that during this challenging time working from home or losing a job, it may be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. However, and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded have to be thankful and hopeful for, even pandemic.

If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we must do this out of an abundance of caution.”

It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases are reliable.

Service has been slow to respond to concerns. He said that localized problems can be quickly addressed but that “larger issues remain.”

fallen into place. I understand to take precautions, but questions about the data, normal are treated in some They’re treated as though question what the government process of returning back No. The government questions. And the longer country, and the stricter the more people, sitting when they can get back answers.

For me, my faith is an important part making. As I celebrated Easter with my Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord a iction, so that we may be able to comfort a iction, with the comfort which we ourselves God.”

To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about the data. State Republican leaders have, too.

DeJoy wrote that the Postal Service also has teams to tackle mail flagged as “undeliverable as addressed” or any other problem that might arise with election mail.

In 2020, amid the coronavirus pandemic, election officials reported sending just over 69 million ballots in the mail, a substantial increase from four years earlier.

Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of hope that we will once again enjoy sporting events, concerts, family gatherings, church services and many more after our own temporary sacri ces are over.

“If the nation’s election officials felt these issues had been properly addressed with USPS staff over the last year, then there would have been no need” for the election groups to air their concerns last week, he said.

Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.

The National Association of Secretaries of State and the National Association of State Election Directors raised the concerns, even as former Pres-

While the numbers this year may be smaller, many voters have embraced mail voting and come to rely on it. Both Democrats and Republicans have launched efforts to push supporters to vote early, either in person or by mail, to “bank” their votes before Election Day on Nov. 5. In a sign of how quickly Election Day is approaching, the first batch of mail ballots was sent last week to absentee voters in Alabama.

If you are celebrating the Easter season, re ect on this message and be comforted, God’s example and comfort all those in this di cult time. Through faith and by con dent we will emerge out of this pandemic In this same spirit, I continue to be inspired neighbors helping neighbors. In Concord, a high school senior named money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic health care workers out of his own home.

Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.

Mandy Vigil, president of the National Association of State Election Directors, agreed “that the issues we’ve raised have not been resolved adequately going into the November election.”

My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat.

Leaders at the local and can be with those answers with details that give their We should all continue ourselves, and our communities to ask questions about the measures are understandable, This is all new to Americans, shape, or form. So while the same time we shouldn’t normal.”

Not one little bit.

Stacey Matthews has also and is a regular contributor

On Monday, Steve Simon, president of the National Association of Secretaries of State, stated that the Postal

But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has

In his response, DeJoy acknowledged that a massive network reorganization caused some temporary problems but assured the two bipartisan election groups that changes are now being limited

ing increases that the administration warns would derail its IMF-backed “zero deficit” budget. Opposition parties have sought to raise salaries and pensions with inflation to help hard-hit Argentines cope with harsh austerity.

“The cornerstone of this budget is the first truth of macroeconomics, a truth that for many years has been neglected in Argentina: that of zero deficit,” Milei told lawmakers, facing rows of empty seats as most of the hard-line opposition Peronist bloc, Unión por la Patria, skipped his address. “Managing means cleaning up the balance sheet, deactivating the debt bomb that we inherited.”

Milei’s supporters interrupted his speech — packed with his usual libertarian talking points — with whoops and cheers.

The opposition-dominated Congress will approve the final budget, which controls the government’s purse strings. Milei’s political isolation makes matters fraught, setting up weeks of negotiations with rivals who insist on concessions.

But Milei vowed that noth-

ing would stop him from pressing on with austerity.

“The budget is a declaration of principles,” said Argentine economist Agustín Almada.

“Even if there is no compromise from the opposition, Milei will continue pursuing this fiscal contraction.”

If the stroke of a veto pen failed to prevent influential lawmakers from spending, Milei promised to find other ways to cut down the state.

“We will only discuss the increase in spending when it comes along with an explanation of what we’ll cut to compensate for it,” Milei said.

Over Milei’s past nine months in office, dramatic cuts to public spending — which he says are necessary to restore market confidence in a country ravaged by one of the world’s highest annual inflation rates — have racked up a fiscal surplus (0.4% of gross domestic product), something unseen in nearly two decades. The austerity has also caused deep economic pain in Argentina, with nearly 60% of Argentines now living in poverty, up from 44% in December 2023, according to the Cath-

Sister Toldjah

Legal Insurrection.

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said Monday that the Postal Service will be ready for the flood of mail-in ballots ahead of the November election.

See BALLOTS, page A11

NATACHA PISARENKO / AP PHOTO

Argentina’s Libertarian President Javier Milei presented his 2025 budget outline to Congress in Buenos Aires on Sunday.

Google’s millisecond ad auctions focus of monopoly claim

The DOJ contends that Google rigged automated auctions of ad sales

By Matthew Barakat

The Associated Press

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — It happens in milliseconds, ideally, as you browse the web. Networks of computers and software analyze who you are and what you are looking at and buy and sell the advertisements you see on web pages.

The Justice Department and a coalition of states say Google’s dominance over the technology that controls the sale of billions of Internet display ads daily is so thorough that it constitutes an illegal monopoly that should be broken up.

A trial underway in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, will determine if Google’s ad tech stack constitutes an illegal monopoly. The first week has included a deep dive into exactly how Google’s products work together to conduct behindthe-scenes electronic auctions that place ads in front of consumers in the blink of an eye.

Online advertising has rapidly evolved. Fifteen or so years ago, if you saw an internet display ad, there was a pretty good chance it featured people dancing over their enthusiasm for low mortgage rates, and those ads were foisted on you whether you were looking at real estate or searching for baseball scores. For its part, Google says it

has invested billions of dollars to improve the quality of ads that consumers see and ensure that advertisers can reach the consumers they’re seeking.

Google’s millisecond ad auctions over other would-be players in the industry. This has deprived the publishing industry of hundreds of millions of dollars it would have received if the auctions were truly competitive.

The Justice Department contends that Google has also rigged the automated auctions of ad sales over the years to favor itself over other would-be players in the industry. This has deprived the publishing industry of hundreds of millions of dollars it would have received if the auctions were truly competitive.

In the government’s depiction, three distinct tools interact to sell and place an ad in front of a consumer. Publishers use ad servers to sell space on their websites, particularly the rectangular advertisements on the top and right-hand side of a web page. Advertisers use ad networks to buy ad space across various relevant websites.

In between is the ad exchange, which matches the website publisher to the wouldbe advertiser by hosting an instant auction.

For years, Google gave its ad exchange, AdX, the first chance to match a publisher’s proposed floor price. For instance, if a publisher wanted to sell a specific ad impression

‘All good here’ among final texts from doomed Titan submersible, hearing reveals

The Titan imploded on June 18, 2023, killing all five on board

By Patrick Whittle The Associated Press

AMONG THE last words heard from the crew of an experimental submersible headed for the wreck of the Titanic were “all good here,” according to a visual re-creation of the journey of the Titan before it imploded, killing all five on board.

The U.S. Coast Guard presented the animation on Monday, the first day of what is expected to be a two-week hearing on the causes of the implosion. According to the presentation, crew aboard the Titan were communicating with staff aboard the support ship Polar Prince via text messages.

The crew lost contact after an exchange of texts about the submersible’s depth and weight as it descended. The Polar Prince then sent repeated messages asking if the Titan could still see the ship on its onboard display. One of Titan’s final responses, which became spotty as it descended, was “all good here.”

The Titan imploded on June 18, 2023, killing all five on board and setting off a worldwide debate about the future of private undersea exploration.

In other testimony Monday, Coast Guard officials said the Titan was left exposed to

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olic University. Milei has balanced the budget by slashing financial transfers to provinces, removing energy and transport subsidies, and steadily holding wages and pensions despite inflation. The bill had swept through both houses of Congress last month. Still, opposition parties ultimately failed to obtain the two-thirds majority needed to override the president’s veto af-

“Google’s rules failed to maximize value for publishers and seem to have been designed to advantage Google’s products.”

Professor Ramamoorthi Ravi

for at least 50 cents, Google’s software would give its ad exchange the first chance to purchase. If Google’s ad exchange bid 50 cents, it would win the auction, even if competing ad exchanges were willing to pay more.

Google said the system was necessary to ensure ads loaded quickly. It would take too long if the computers entertained bids from every ad exchange.

Publishers, dissatisfied with this system, found a workaround to conduct the auctions outside of Google’s purview, a process that became known as “header bidding.” Internal Google documents introduced at trial described header bidding as an “existential threat” to Google’s market share.

Google’s response relied on its control of all three process components. If publishers conducted an auction outside Google’s purview but still used Google’s publisher ad server, DoubleClick For Publishers, that software forced the winning bid back into Google’s Ad

Exchange. If Google were willing to match the price that publishers had received under the header-bidding auction, Google would win the auction. Professor Ramamoorthi Ravi, an expert at Carnegie Mellon University, said Google’s rules failed to maximize value for publishers and “seem to have been designed to advantage Google’s products.”

Publishers could stop using Google’s ad exchange entirely. Still, at trial, they said they were reluctant to do so because they would also lose access to Google’s huge, exclusive cache of advertisers in its Google Ads network, which was only available through Google’s ad exchange.

For its part, Google says it has not run auctions this way since 2019 and that its share of the display ad market has begun to erode in the last five years. It says that tying its buyside, sell-side and middleman products together helps it run seamlessly and quickly and minimizes fraudulent ads or malware risks. Google also says its innovations over the last 15 years fueled the improvements in matching online ads to consumer interests.

The Justice Department says that even though Google no longer runs its auctions in the ways described, this helped Google maintain its monopoly in the ad tech market in the years leading up to 2019.

weather and elements while in storage for seven months in 2022 and 2023. They also said the hull was never reviewed by any third parties, as is standard procedure.

The ongoing Marine Board of Investigation is the highest level of marine casualty investigation conducted by the Coast Guard. When the hearing concludes, recommendations will be submitted to the Coast Guard’s commandant.

The National Transportation Safety Board is also conducting an investigation.

“There are no words to ease the loss endured by the families impacted by this tragic incident,” said Jason Neubauer of the Coast Guard Office of Investigations, who led the hearing. “But we hope that this hearing will help shed light on the cause of the tragedy and prevent anything like this from happening again.”

Among those killed was Stockton Rush, co-founder of OceanGate, the Washington state company that owned the Titan. After the implosion, OceanGate suspended operations.

The hearing’s first witness, OceanGate’s former engineering director, Tony Nissen, testified Monday that Rush could be difficult to work for and was often very concerned with costs and project schedules, among other issues. Nissen also said that initially, he had “no idea they

ter government lobbying eroded support for the measure. At the news of the bill’s rejection Wednesday, outraged retirees — who have lost roughly half of their purchasing power due to inflation — poured into the streets of downtown Buenos Aires, where they faced off with riot police spraying tear gas and water cannons.

Milei warned that his fiscal shock therapy would not be easy. But his administration is betting that the worst has

wanted to go to the Titanic.”

Nissen said Rush would fight for what he wanted, which often changed daily. He said he tried to keep his clashes with Rush behind closed doors so that others in the company wouldn’t be aware. “Most people would eventually just return to Stockton,” he said.

Bonnie Carl, the company’s former finance director, and Tym Catterson, a former contractor, were also scheduled to speak. Some key OceanGate representatives are not scheduled to testify, including Rush’s widow, Wendy Rush, who was the company’s communications director.

Melissa Leake, a spokesperson for the Coast Guard, said the agency does not comment on the reasons for not calling specific individuals to a particular hearing during ongoing investigations. She added that it’s common for a Marine Board of

passed. Although Argentina’s annual inflation hovers around 237%, Milei has retained popular support by keeping a lid on monthly inflation, which has dropped to 4% since its peak of 26% last December, when he took office. In an optimistic statement about the budget Sunday, the Finance Ministry expected Milei’s proposal to result in an annual inflation rate of just 18% by the end of 2025 and yield a 5% economic growth rate. Ar-

Investigation to “hold multiple hearing sessions or conduct additional witness depositions for complex cases.”

According to a list compiled by the Coast Guard, OceanGate co-founder Guillermo Sohnlein, former operations director David Lochridge, and former scientific director Steven Ross are scheduled to appear later in the hearing. Guard officials, scientists, and government and industry officials are also expected to testify. Leake said that the U.S. Coast Guard subpoenaed witnesses who were not government employees.

OceanGate has no full-time employees at this time but will be represented by an attorney during the hearing, the company said in a statement. The company has fully cooperated with the Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board investigations since they began. The implosion killed Rush

gentina’s economy contracted more than 3% in the first half 2024. But much of Milei’s future depends on Congress. The government’s pension law victory over congressional opponents proved short-lived, as lawmakers in the lower house also passed a bill increasing spending on public universities.

Milei suffered another blow when lawmakers rejected his plan to raise spending on the intelligence services by more

and veteran Titanic explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet; two members of a prominent Pakistani family, Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old son Suleman Dawood; and British adventurer Hamish Harding.

The Titan lost contact with its support vessel about two hours after its final dive. When it was reported overdue, rescuers rushed ships, planes and other equipment to an area about 435 miles (700 kilometers) south of St. John’s, Newfoundland.

The search for the submersible attracted worldwide attention as it became increasingly unlikely that anyone could have survived the implosion. Coast Guard officials said that the wreckage of the Titan was subsequently found on the ocean floor about 330 yards (300 meters) off the bow of the Titanic. The Titan had been making voyages to the Titanic wreckage site going back to 2021.

than $100 million. Despite all the belt-tightening, Milei has committed to increasing defense spending from 0.5% of GDP to 2.1%, raising the hackles of some lawmakers amid his cuts to health and education. Although Milei has repeatedly compromised to get his legislation through Congress, he took a strident tone in Sunday’s speech, describing lawmakers who disagree with him as “miserable rats who bet against the country.”

MILEI

OCEANGATE EXPEDITIONS VIA AP

OceanGate Expeditions’ Titan submersible imploded in 2023, killing all on board. A hearing is underway on the causes of the implosion.

STEPHANIE SCARBROUGH / AP PHOTO

Lawyers leave U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Virginia, where Google’s monopoly trial is underway.

Biden’s crackdown on smuggled products from China could mean higher prices

Chinese sellers use the so-called de minimis exemption to flood the U.S. market

By Josh Boak and Didi Tang

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

The Biden administration is cracking down on cheap products sold out of China, expanding a push to reduce U.S. dependence on Beijing and bolster homegrown industry. However, this could trigger higher prices for U.S. consumers who flock to popular shopping sites like Temu and Shein.

President Biden’s proposed rule says foreign companies can’t avoid tariffs simply by shipping goods that they claim to be worth $800 or less.

Sellers from China have used the de minimis exemption to flood the U.S. market, shipping dresses, shoes, toys and bags directly to American shoppers in small packages.

These shipments have jumped from 140 million annually to over 1 billion last year. The U.S. government says the exemption also makes it harder to block banned imports like fentanyl and synthetic drug content, raising fears that unsafe and unlawful products are slipping through.

The White House move comes at a delicate moment for the world’s two largest economies. The United States has tried to lessen its reliance on Chinese products, protect emerging industries such as electric vehicles from competition, and restrict China’s access to advanced computer chips.

Biden’s proposal comes the same week that the U.S. House targeted China in a largely bipartisan series of bills, showing the breadth of Washing-

ton’s efforts to compete with Beijing in a global race for dominance and the effects that can have on everyday Americans in areas from health care to shopping.

The House was not able to bring a bill to meaningfully narrow the de minimis exemption to the floor this week, prompting 126 House Democrats to call on Biden to use his executive authority to close a loophole that they say poses growing dangers to American workers, manufacturers and retailers and “threatens our health and safety.”

Democratic Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Rosa DeLauro welcomed Biden’s announcement on Friday but called it the first step that “does not negate the need for Congress to act on a comprehensive solution.”

According to Customs and Border Protection data, China is the biggest source of retail packages entering the U.S., accounting for the bulk of parcels worth $800 or less.

Homeland Security Secre-

tary Alejandro Mayorkas has acknowledged that it is impossible to screen the 4 million packages that enter the U.S. every day under the tariff exception, which he said is “built on a false premise that low value means low risk.”

At a talk at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in July, Mayorkas said customs workers had seized narcotics, ghost guns and other contraband from these small packages.

Leah DeVere, a Georgia mother, has been campaigning against the exception since her son Cory was shipped a counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl two years ago. He died after taking the drug, she said.

“By tracing the package in which the pill was delivered, my family learned that the shipment originated abroad and breezed past U.S. Customs enforcement without so much as a second glance,” she wrote in an opinion column in May for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “My son’s life

was worth more than $800.”

Such concerns led several U.S. groups — from law enforcement to manufacturing — to form a coalition to lobby lawmakers and the administration to act. However, the National Foreign Trade Council — including international shippers FedEx, UPS, DHL, and retailers Amazon and Walmart — has defended the exception, arguing that it is “an essential component of America’s economic health and supply chain efficiency.”

Without the exemption, it says costs would increase for American consumers and small businesses.

Ending it could be a blow to Chinese-founded companies such as Temu and Shein, which compete by keeping their prices low and might now face additional scrutiny. The government said its tariffs cover about 40% of U.S. imports, including 70% of textile and apparel imports from China.

Temu said it was reviewing the proposal. The company has sold its products at affordable prices “through an efficient business model that cuts out unnecessary middlemen, allowing us to pass savings directly to our customers,” a Temu statement said. “Temu’s growth does not depend on the de minimis policy.”

Shein said it complies with all import requirements, including de minimis parcels. The company also said it supports “responsible reform” of the exemption rule to create “a level, transparent playing field” where the same rules are applied, “regardless of where a company is based or ships from.”

Biden’s proposed rule will undergo a public comment period, a process that the Biden administration would likely need to complete before its term ends.

Buffetts poised to become among most significant forces in philanthropy

Warren Buffett will donate his fortune to a charitable trust managed by his three children

By Thalia Beaty and Josh Funk The Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. — The next generation of Buffetts is poised to become one of the most powerful forces in philanthropy when their 94-year-old father, the legendary businessman and leader of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett, eventually dies.

Buffett announced in June that he would donate his fortune, now valued at nearly $144 billion, to a charitable trust managed by his three children when he dies instead of giving it to the Gates Foundation, as he indicated 18 years ago. In the meantime, the elder Buffett continues to make substantial annual donations to the Gates Foundation and his four family foundations, which will continue throughout his lifetime.

Buffett has entrusted Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates with significant annual gifts to their foundation since 2006 — a remarkable $43 billion.

“Wealthy people don’t tend to give their money to other people to give away,” said James Ferris, founding director of The Center on Philanthropy and Public Policy at the University of Southern California. But many wealthiest people are also hesitant to hand over their

BALLOTS from page A9

fortunes to the next generation because they are concerned that it hampers their ingenuity, he said.

Ferris thinks Buffett’s changing philanthropic intentions is a positive story. “It shows how a donor is making choices and adapting to circumstances,” he said.

The Gates Foundation did not say when it learned of Buffett’s decision or what the impact would be on its budget. A statement previously stated, “Warren Buffett has been exceedingly generous” and has “played an invaluable role in championing and shaping the foundation’s work to create a world where every person can live a healthy, productive life.”

The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, named after Warren Buffett’s first wife, is the largest donor organization. It supports organizations that provide reproductive health care and access to contraception and abortion around the world. Susie Buffett, 71, is its board chair, and Peter Buffett, 66, is a board member.

Susie Buffett also leads The Sherwood Foundation, a major national supporter of early childhood development that gives grants to organizations and projects within Omaha, Nebraska, the Buffetts’ hometown.

Peter Buffett’s NoVo Foundation has been a significant funder of organizations advocating for the autonomy of girls and women and against gender-based violence. In 2020, Peter and his wife, Jennifer, de-

“I can tell you, we’ll sit down in a room when the time comes, and we’ll get it figured out pretty quickly.”

Howard Buffet

cided to reorient their focus, expanding their support for Native American communities and projects to build sustainable, local communities focusing on agriculture and food access.

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation has focused on conflict mitigation and agriculture worldwide. Since 2022, it has donated some $800 million — more than most countries — to humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine during the country’s war with Russia. These include supporting food distribution at schools, demining activities, and rebuilding a major publishing company and a key grain-transporting bridge.

In a relatively rare interview for a family that seldom makes time to speak with the media, Howard Buffett, 69, said he couldn’t predict exactly how he and his siblings would give away their father’s fortune. However, he said they would continue to take risks and find ways to make the most significant difference, as their father recommended.

“I can tell you, we’ll sit down in a room when the time comes, and we’ll get it figured out pret-

seven days in the last presidential

tently

ty quickly,” he said, acknowledging that the directive to donate all the money within 10 years was challenging. He said the siblings’ different ways of thinking and approaches to giving are assets.

But don’t expect to find the family name on many buildings. The siblings have largely avoided it, even as they’ve given away more than $15 billion of their father’s money since 2006.

Kathleen Enright, president and CEO of the Council on Foundations, said the Buffetts have effectively made philanthropy a family business. The next generation is now seasoned and built enduring institutions in their foundations.

“It is a big deal,” she said, of the amount of money the Buffetts are poised to give away, noting that because the fortune will likely continue to grow, they will have to give away highly visible sums to spend it down.

The tight timeframe to give away his fortune after his death reflects one of Warren Buffett’s longstanding conditions for receiving charitable funding. He has instructed the Gates Foundation and his family’s foundations to grant out the full amount they received within a year.

The next generation of Buffetts has run their foundations with tiny staffs, much like Warren Buffett oversees his massive Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate with only about two dozen people at its headquarters in Omaha.

Biden administration showing no urgency opposing Nippon’s U.S. Steel takeover

Washington President Joe Biden has opposed Nippon Steel buying U.S. Steel, but the federal government is in no hurry to block the deal. White House officials earlier this month did not deny that the president would formally block the acquisition. However, the necessary report from the government’s Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States has yet to be submitted to the White House. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says it’s an independent process that needs to be followed.

Boar’s Head closing Virginia plant linked to deadly listeria outbreak

Boar’s Head is closing the Virginia plant tied to a deadly listeria outbreak. The Sarasota, Florida-based company said it will also permanently discontinue production of liverwurst, the product linked to the deaths of at least nine people in the U.S. Boar’s Head said an internal investigation at its Jarratt, Virginia, plant found that the contamination was the result of a specific production process used only for liverwurst. The Jarratt plant hasn’t been operational since late July when Boar’s Head recalled more than 7 million pounds of products after tests confirmed listeria bacteria. The plant had a troubled history, with reports of mold, insects and other problems during safety inspections.

United Airlines to offer free internet from Musk’s SpaceX

Dallas United Airlines says it will offer free Wi-Fi service on flights using the satellite-ba sed Starlink service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX. United said Friday it will start testing Starlink early next year and put it on the entire fleet of planes over the next several years. United isn’t releasing financial details of the deal with SpaceX. The move comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities to stand out when passengers pick an airline for a flight.

Walgreens to pay

$106M in false payment, Rx claims settlement

Washington Walgreens agreed to pay $106 million to settle lawsuits that alleged it submitted false payment claims with government health care programs for never-dispensed prescriptions. The settlement announced on Friday resolved lawsuits filed in New Mexico, Texas, and Florida on behalf of three people who had worked in Walgreens’ pharmacy operation.

Beginning Cash

$2,637,405,803 Receipts (income) $73,889,803 Disbursements $208,852,940 Cash Balance $2,502,479,161

vice performance due to our long-standing processes and procedures,” DeJoy wrote. DeJoy said first-class mail is currently averaging 2.7 days for delivery, even though the two groups wrote in a letter

CHARLES REX ARBOGAST / AP PHOTO

Customs workers have seized narcotics and contraband in small packages from sellers using the minmis rule.

off-road chic

Dissecting Defender’s adventure lifestyle

By Jordan Golson North State Journal

AUSTIN, Texas — Nearly twenty years ago, I owned a Land Rover Discovery that spent more time at the mechanic than on the road. Despite its foibles, I loved it. That experience perfectly encapsulates the Land Rover owner mentality: a devotion transcending mere transportation. Now, with Destination Defender, Land Rover is taking that passionate ownership experience to new heights.

Last year, I attended the second annual Destination Defender festival in Texas, one of the brand’s biggest markets.

The event, still in its infancy, is Land Rover’s answer to enthusiast gatherings like Jeep’s Easter Safari and Ford’s Bronco Off-Roadeo. It signals that Defender is more than just a vehicle — it’s a lifestyle brand with its own identity and community. Destination Defender offered a smorgasbord of activities catering to the brand’s adventurous spirit. From off-road courses and skeet shooting to fly fishing and spa treatments, the event aimed to capture the diverse interests of Defender owners and potential buyers. It’s a far cry from the utilitarian, military-inspired roots of the original Defender, but it’s a smart evolution for a brand looking to broaden its appeal.

The off-road course, while brief, was cleverly designed to showcase the Defender’s capabilities. It gave owners and prospective buyers a taste of what their vehicles can do, even if most will never venture far from paved roads. This hands-on experience is crucial in building brand loyalty and community, much like Ford’s Bronco program, which I’ve experienced firsthand in Las Vegas and Texas — and there’s a new Off-Roadeo location freshly opened in the Smoky Mountains.

But Destination Defender goes beyond just showcasing the vehicle’s capabilities. It’s about creating a lifestyle brand. The event featured live music from artists like Aloe Blacc and Fitz and the Tantrums, adding a festival atmosphere that extends the Defender experience beyond mere transportation. The $200 Defender hoodies on sale at the event are a testament to this strategy — it’s not just about selling cars but creating a community of brand ambassadors. Whether in its 90, 110 or 130 variants (the numbers signify the different lengths available), the Defender itself serves as this community’s centerpiece. Numerous customization options are available, like distinctive color schemes, throwback steel wheels and accessories like storage boxes, ladders and other off-road gear. These special editions allow owners to personalize their Defenders, further strengthening their connection to the brand.

While the Defender may not offer a hardcore off-road trim to rival the most extreme Jeep Wranglers or Ford Broncos, that’s not the point. Land Rover understands that for most buyers, the idea of capability is more important than actual trail use. As I noted in my original Defender review, it’s the perfect embodiment of “off-road lux” — a vehicle that can handle the Serengeti but is more like-

ly to tackle Whole Foods parking lots.

Destination Defender also highlighted Land Rover’s commitment to giving back. The event included a charity awards dinner for the Defender Service Awards, during which five Defender 130s and $25,000 were given to deserving charities including Honour House Society, a getaway for veterans in Canada, and the Squamish Search and Rescue Society in British Columbia, further cementing the brand’s image as a force for good.

As Land Rover continues positioning Defender, Discovery and Range Rover as distinct brands, events like Destination Defender will play a crucial role. They’re not just selling a vehicle; they’re offering entry into a community, a lifestyle and an adventure.

This year’s event takes place

at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu from Nov. 22-24, so it is a bit more upmarket than the Texas ranch event I attended.

The road ahead for Land Rover is clear. By fostering this sense of community and adventure around the Defender, they hope to ensure their iconic off-roader remains relevant and desirable in an increasingly crowded and electrified automotive landscape. Destination Defender isn’t just an event — it’s a glimpse into the future of automotive brand building, where the experience of ownership extends far beyond the vehicle itself. For Land Rover enthusiasts, it’s a chance to live the adventure, even if that adventure is just a weekend getaway. And for the brand, it’s an opportunity to build a community as capable and enduring as the Defender itself.

COURTESY

Major League Table Tennis

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

NCAA BASKETBALL

Kansas guard Moore to miss up to 8 weeks after breaking foot

Lawrence, Kan. Kansas guard Shakeel Moore could miss up to eight weeks after breaking his foot, potentially leaving the Jayhawks without a second guard for the start of the basketball season following Elmarko Jackson’s season-ending knee injury. Moore began his career at NC State before transferring to Mississippi State, where he averaged 7.9 points last season and earned a reputation as a lockdown defender. He was expected to back up veteran guard Dajuan Harris Jr., Wisconsin transfer AJ Storr and South Dakota State transfer Zeke Mayo in the Kansas backcourt.

MLS

Montreal tops Charlotte FC, 2-1

Montreal Caden Clark and Bryce Duke scored three minutes apart in the first half as CF Montreal beat Charlotte 2-1. Clark scored in the 23rd minute. After a triple-save from Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, the ball fell to Clark who volleyed it into the wide-open net. Duke’s goal ended up being the winner. Tim Ream found the back of the net for Charlotte (10-10-8) when he rose above everyone at the back post to score his first goal with his new club.

TV SPORTS

ESPN returns to DirecTV with new Disney deal after nearly 2-week blackout

DirecTV announced it had reached a deal with Walt Disney Co. that restored ESPN and ABC-owned stations to its service after a nearly 2-week dispute that blacked out those networks for millions of viewers across the U.S. The end of the impasse came in time for sports fans to watch ESPN’s slate of college football games.

Bryceless: Panthers make change at quarterback

Bryce Young, the former No. 1 pick, is benched two games into the season

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

ON SUNDAY, Dave Canales stood at the podium at Bank of America Stadium and answered back-to-back questions with the phrase, “Bryce is our quarterback.”

At lunchtime on Monday, Canales returned to the podium and said, “Andy Dalton is our quarterback right now. So, going into this week, I feel great about it.”

The 36-year-old Dalton has started 163 games in his 14year NFL career, although just one in his two seasons with the Panthers, where he’s served as

“I owe it to all the guys to be really critical about what we see on film.”

Panthers coach Dave Canales

a backup for Bryce Young, the top pick in the 2023 draft. The decision came after the Panthers lost their home opener to the Chargers by a 26-3 score. Carolina has scored just 13 points through two games. Going into the Monday night game, every other team with at least two games played had scored at least 24. The Panthers also had an incredible -60 scoring differential through two games, 23 points

worse than anyone else in the league. While the defense has struggled, and there’s no one reason that can be blamed for the terrible start, Young, who struggled last year and has appeared to regress this season, is one of the key factors. Despite having a rebuilt, veteran offensive line and a coach known for his ability to rebuild the careers of troubled quarterbacks, Young has been worse in every key quarterback statistic, including completion percentage, yards per pass and completion, interception rate and passing success rate. Against the Chargers, Young threw for just 84 yards, 13 fewer than Sam Darnold, who flamed out in his time as Panthers starter three years ago, had on one pass for the Vikings

that same afternoon. Fourteen of Young’s 26 passes were targeted for running backs or tight ends — safe dump-off decisions that made more sense last year, when a porous line had Young running for his life.

Despite being sacked less often than last year, Young has yet to throw a touchdown pass. His passer rating is 44.1, down nearly 30 points from last year’s, and his ESPN Total Quarterback rating is a league-worst 8.9, down nearly 25 from last season, when he was second-worst.

Canales was short on specifics when discussing the 180-degree change in direction over less than a day.

“After yesterday, I just went home, watched the film, had some conversations with coaches (and front office staff),” Canales said. “I made the decision that this was the best decision for our group going forward.”

Five times in a 12-minute press conference, Canales said that the change was “the best

See PANTHERS , page B3

Camp battles await new-look Hurricanes

Carolina is back on the ice and has several jobs up for grabs

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — The Hurricanes hit the ice Thursday for the start of training camp as they prepare for the 2024-25 season, and there are a handful of jobs to be decided before the season opener on Oct. 11.

With several players having moved on, Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour will need to reconfigure his lineup from a group of newcomers and prospects. Three camp battles stand out as the most important over the next three weeks.

Opposite Orlov

For the second straight season, there is a battle to play alongside left-handed Dmitry Orlov. Last year, Tony DeAngelo and Jalen Chatfield were the candidates to slot on the right side of the third pairing opposite Orlov. DeAngelo won the job out of camp, but the tandem struggled. An injury to Brett Pesce in

the fifth game of the regular season kept both Chatfield and DeAngelo in the lineup, but by mid-November, Chatfield established himself alongside Orlov, and the tandem thrived together. With Pesce and Brady Skjei — along with DeAngelo — gone this season, the second pairing is now open. Orlov will fill one of those spots in the final season of his two-year contract, but who will play alongside him?

Brind’Amour knows Orlov and Chatfield work well together, and the Hurricanes showed a commitment to the latter by giving him a threeyear, $9 million contract this offseason before he could become an unrestricted free agent. But Carolina gave an even bigger deal to Sean Walker, handing the 29-year-old a fiveyear contract totaling $18 million on July 1.

Walker had a breakout year last season, scoring a combined 10 goals and 29 points with Philadelphia and Colorado. Chatfield’s numbers were similar: The 28-year-old had eight goals and 22 points a year ago. The odds are in Walker’s favor — at least to start the year — for two reasons. One, Brind’Amour knows he can always reunite Orlov with Chatfield should an Orlov-Walker pairing stumble. Secondly, whichever player instead ends up on the third pairing is poised to be matched up with Shayne Gostisbehere — something Chatfield has experience doing.

When Carolina acquired Gostisbehere at the 2022 trade deadline, he played almost exclusively with Chatfield. The duo totaled 225:26 evenstrength minutes in 19 regular season games, according to NaturalStatTrick.com, while Gostisbehere had just 39:04 with other players. The underlying numbers were good for the pairing, so Brind’Amour should have confidence in playing Chatfield with either partner.

KARL B. DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Jack Drury, left, Pyotr Kochetkov, center, and Frederik Andersen will all be battling for positions when the Hurricanes open training camp this week.

ERIK VERDUZCO / AP PHOTO

Young and done: Panthers quarterback Bryce Young leaves the postgame news conference, his final one as Carolina’s starter, after the loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

THURSDAY 9.19.24

TRENDING

Christian

The San Francisco 49ers placed the All-Pro running back on injured reserve because of lingering calf and Achilles tendon injuries The move former Panther, will miss at least four more games after already sitting out the season opener. He is eligible to return Oct. 10. early in training camp and missed four weeks before returning on a limited basis.

Jyilek Zyiare

Harrington: The linebacker at Division II West Virginia State was fatally shot during an alleged home invasion. The body of the Charlotte native was found inside an apartment Wednesday night. Police say several gunshots were disturbance in a hallway and inside the apartment. Harrington, 21, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say they have no information on a possible suspect.

Ashley Sanchez:

The Carolina Courage forward

NWSL player in history to score against all 14 teams in the league when she found the net against Bay FC. Sanchez’s goal tied the game at 1-1, which ended score The Courage are unbeaten in their last 19 home games (12-0-7), three shy of the league record.

Beyond the box score

POTENT QUOTABLES NASCAR among the championship contenders The chaos on the 2.45-mile road course

“Lightning bolts were coming out of his eyes and of his mouth.”

Charlotte coach Poggi on volunteer assistant Steve Wilks (pictured) addressing the team at halftime before the 49ers rallied to win.

“You better hope she keeps coaching and doesn’t run.”

Joe Biden’s message to South Carolina legislators when coach Dawn Staley and the champion Gamecocks visited the White House.

The Giants lost kicker Graham Gano their loss to the Commanders New game, including late in the fourth with the score tied, after Gano, a his hamstring. Punter Jamie Gillan missed a PAT attempt.

Gardner Minshew led three scoring drives in the fourth quarter, and Las Vegas rallied to beat the Baltimore Ravens Trailing 23-13, Minshew stormed back He connected on a 1-yard touchdow n pass to tie it with 3:54 to go The Raiders quickly got the ball back, and Minshew drove for the

The last time UNC was undefeated when it played Duke The Blue Devils were last unbeaten for the game in 2017 The rivals have never both been undefeated for the game If both teams win nex t week — UNC against James Madison and Duke at Middle Tennessee — they can make histor y Sept 28.

Vu made

and the United States won the Solheim Cup for 2017, beating Europe at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Megan Khang, Rose Zhang and Allisen Corpuz got blowout wins, and the Americans

LAUREN PETRACCA

Lilia

a 2-foot birdie putt

Triangle to host Major League Table Tennis this weekend

The MLTT will play six games from Friday to Sunday

By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal

MAJOR LEAGUE Table Tennis is coming to North Carolina for the first time this weekend.

The MLTT will hold six games from Friday to Sunday at the Triangle Badminton and Table Tennis Club in Morrisville. Two games will be played each day between the Carolina Gold Rush, Texas Smash, Seattle Spinners and Chicago Wind. Texas and Chicago will kick off the weekend Friday at 4 p.m. followed by a matchup between Seattle and Carolina at 7 p.m. Seattle will take on Chicago Saturday at 4 p.m., and Carolina will face Texas right after at 7 p.m. On the final day, Seattle will play Texas at 11 a.m., and Chicago and Carolina will end the weekend with a 2 p.m. start time.

Spectators can purchase general admission tickets for individual days (good for both games) on the MLTT website. Adult tickets are $25 and kids ages 4-12 can get in for $10. Students with a valid student ID and seniors ages 60 and up can buy tickets for $15. There’s also

a $60 VIP ticket option that comes with an official MLTT complementary item and allows spectators to sit in the VIP seating area located courtside.

For those that don’t want to miss any of the action, there is a three-day general admission pass that is offered at a discounted price of $65. The three-day VIP pass is $150.

The MLTT was founded in 2023 and features some big table tennis names, including fourtime Olympian Lily Zhang (a

“They’ll give you tips, tricks, all that stuff, and you can see what it’s like to take on the best.”

Max Thompson

member of the Bay Area Blasters) and Olympian Rachel Sung (a member of the Portland Paddlers).

There are eight teams in the league. The Carolina Gold Rush, which plays in both North and South Carolina, earned a firstplace finish in the East Division in last year’s inaugural regular season.

The team was led to a 16-6 regular season record and a fourth-place playoff finish by No. 1 overall draft pick and 2023-24 Men’s MVP Enzo Angles (France) and Women’s MVP Hong Lin (USA), who are both on this year’s roster.

The Gold Rush, currently coached by Shigang “Alex” Yang, have six other players on this season’s roster, including “Cobra” Kai Zhang (USA), Romain Lorentz (France), Edward Ly (Canada), Satoshi Aida (Japan), Eugene Wang (Canada) and Sid Naresh (USA).

“We’re trying to rotate them through North and South Carolina because everywhere we go, we have these table tennis clubs and followers and student club from universities who just really enjoy getting involved,” Max Thompson, the MLTT vice president of marketing said.

An interesting feature of the MLTT is the “intimate” setting and the interactions between players and fans. “Think you’re good?” is the MLTT motto, and for local table tennis players that think they have what it takes, this weekend is a good chance to prove it.

Fans will get the opportunity to play against the players both before and after the matches.

“Our athletes are so humble and enjoy getting to interact with people,” Thompson said. “If

you’ve ever been curious about table tennis, play it in your basement or you’re someone who takes it even more seriously than that, you’ll have a chance to meet these players, and they’ll even play against you.”

Said Thompson, “They’ll give you tips, tricks, all that stuff, and you can see what it’s like to take on the best.”

Another distinctive feature of the MLTT is the game format. Each game will start in a more traditional arrangement with two singles matchups followed by one doubles and two more singles matchups. In each matchup there will be three games each worth a team point. The aspect special to the MLTT is the game-ending “Golden Game” which is a race to 21. Every member of each five-person team rotates into the game every four points until one team reaches 21.

The first team to 21 earns six more team points which can change the outcome or make the games more interesting at the end.

“When it gets down to 20-20 right before 21 and one point is on the line, the lid comes off the place,” Thompson said.

Said Thompson. “When you get all the players on the team rotating and competing against each other, it’s really high stakes, and there’s really no room for error. I think you’ll see some of our best players really struggle sometimes in that high intensity, ‘you have to win these four points and that’s it.’ You don’t have the chance to beat someone in a game to 11.”

Minor league seasons come to a close in North Carolina

Three of the state’s 11 minor league teams made the postseason

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

Durham Bulls

The Bulls opened the Triple-A season with one of the top minor league prospects in baseball, in Junior Caminero. The perennial championship contenders struggled, however. Caminero missed extended time with an injury, then got called up to Tampa, and Durham finished the first half with a sub-.500 record. With less than a week to go in the second half, the Bulls will need to have a winning streak to top their first-half mark.

Highlights: First baseman Bob Seymour got called up at midseason, and the Wake Forest product had 18 home runs in 50 games. Outfielder Jake Mangum was in a race for the league batting title. Lefthander Joe Rock, acquired in a preseason trade, led the team in wins and strikeouts.

Charlotte Knights

The White Sox’s Triple-A affiliate opened like its woeful parent club, finishing in last in the division in the first half. Charlotte rebounded in the second half to flirt with a .500 mark.

Highlights: Rafael Ortega brought veteran leadership at the plate. The 33-year-old utility man had 11 homers, 17 stolen bases and .895 OPS heading into the final week. Chicago prospect Colson Montgomery had 17 home runs, although he saw his ranking take a hit in most prospect lists after a slow start.

Greensboro Grasshoppers

The state’s only playoff team in high-A, Pittsburgh’s High-A

PANTHERS from page B1 decision” for the Panthers. He added another dozen times that he felt Dalton gave the team “the best chance” to win. He also said he didn’t want to get into specifics or that he wanted conversations to remain private seven times, including when he was asked if notoriously volatile owner David Tepper was behind the decision to bench Young. Canales also didn’t discuss the timeline of the change — wheth-

farm team won the South Atlantic League’s first half with a 39-26 record. They finished three and a half games off the pace in the second half, posting a 36-29 mark. The Hoppers fell to second-half champ Hudson Valley in the playoffs, however.

Highlights: Carlson Reed went 6-3 with a 1.99 ERA in his first year out of college. The 2023 fourth-rounder was called up from low-A Bradenton late in the year. Catcher Shawn Ross led the league with 23 home runs, while Jack Brannigan (18) and Nick Cimillo (17) were in the top five.

Winston-Salem Dash

Another White Sox affiliate, the Dash finished below .500 in both halves, going 31-35 for a third-place finish in the first half, then slumping to 29-37 in the second half.

Highlights: Third baseman Wes Kath had 16 home

er this was a brief respite for Young to collect himself, watch and learn from the sideline, or whether the team had soured on the player it traded up to draft first overall just over a year ago. However, Canales didn’t do much to bolster the confidence of his second-year quarterback.

“I owe it to all the guys to be really critical about what we see on film,” he said. “I stood in front of the team and challenged all the guys — we have to step up our passion for what we’re doing

runs and 58 RBIs, both ranked in the top 10 of the South Atlantic. Riley Gowens went 5-3 with 85 strikeouts in 70.1 innings and a 1.038 WHIP.

Asheville Tourists

The Tourists finished below .500 in both halves of the South Atlantic season, going 28-36 in the first half, then falling to dead last in the South Division at 23-43 in the second half.

Highlights: Right fielder Luis Baez was one of three players in the league to finish with 20 home runs, ranking second, overall. He led the league in RBIs. Nic Swanson had 115 strikeouts in 107 innings.

Hickory Crawdads

The Rangers farm team finished over .500, at 34-32, in the second half for a third-place finish in the division. That was a big step up after a 28-38 first half that had the Crawdads

and play with the playing style we’re looking for.”

When asked about his expectations for Young going forward, he said, “I certainly hope he shows up every day, works hard, focuses on his job and continues to push himself.” He later reiterated that when asked again, saying, “The standard of NFL football is to show up, work hard, be focused, be engaged, do your job, give everything you have every day, pursuing your best and growing.”

one spot out of the basement.

Highlights: Shortstop Sebastian Walcott’s 113 hits were second in the league, as were his 31 doubles. He led the South Atlantic with 9 triples. DJ McCarty had 110 strikeouts in 91.1 innings.

Kannapolis Cannon Ballers

The state’s third Chicago White Sox affiliate is giving Pale Hose fans hope for the future. Kannapolis is still playing, after dispatching Charleston in the first round of the playoffs. The Cannon Ballers are now facing Fredericksburg for the Carolina League title. Kannapolis stormed to the first-half South Division title with a 41-25 record. They fell to 29-36 in the second half, finishing fourth. Highlights: First baseman Caden Connor led the Carolina League in batting (.307) and OPS (.830). Aldrin Batista went 8-4 with a team-high 87 strikeouts.

There was nothing about hoping Young figures things out, realizes his potential or takes back over. That led to speculation that the team may be considering a trade. Several teams, most notably the Giants and Dolphins, may be in need of quarterback help, and a trade of Young would have a relatively low impact on the Panthers’ salary cap position. Plus, since he’s still on his rookie contract, a team trading for him would also not be pressed, salary-cap wise.

Carolina Mudcats

A playoff appearance highlighted the Mudcats’ second-tolast year before moving to Wilson. The Brewers’ franchise won the first half of the Carolina League’s North Division by 4.5 games, posting a 41-24 mark. The Muddies then went 37-27 in the second half, just missing winning that title too, finishing in second by a game and a half. Carolina fell to Fredericksburg in the postseason, getting swept 2-0 in the best-of-three series. Highlights: Luis Castillo tied for the league lead in home runs, with 18 and was second with 75 RBIs.

Fayetteville Woodpeckers

The Astros’ farm club went 29-37 in the first half, good for a third-place finish. The second half was even worse, as a 26-38 record put them one spot out of last place in the South Division. Highlights: Center fielder Kenni Gomez had 23 doubles and a .415 slugging percentage, both good for the top 10. Jackson Nezuh struck out 106 in 81.2 innings.

Down East Wood Ducks

In their last year before leaving Kinston, Down East went 35-30 in the first half, finishing third in the division. The Wood Ducks went 30-33 in the second half, to finish fourth. Highlights: Shortstop Echedry Vargas had 14 home runs. Jose Gonzalez had 117 strikeouts in just 87.2 innings, posting a 2.26 ERA and 1.02 WHIP High Point Rockers

It was a frustrating nearmiss for the Rockers, who finished in second place in the first half of the Atlantic League season, then tied for first in the second half, only to miss the playoffs based on a head-to-head tiebreaker.

A trade after just two games with Young might seem to put a blemish on Canales’ reputation as a quarterback whisperer. It was thought that he took the head coaching job in large part for the opportunity to work with the Heisman-winning top pick in the draft.

“I took this job, because it’s a dream of mine,” he said. “It’s a dream to be able to lead men and make decisions to give us the best chance to win.” He just made his first one.

ROSS D. FRANKLIN / AP PHOTO

Wes Kath, pictured during spring training with the Chicago White Sox, was one of Winston‑Salem’s top power hitters this season.

COURTESY MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS

France’s Enzo Angles was the Major League Table Tennis men’s MVP last season.

A

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

look at North Carolina college football

NORTH CAROLINA col-

leges posted their first winning week of the year. Here’s a look at the best and worst of the state’s college football this week.

• North Carolina’s record: 16-15 (41-43 overall)

Last week’s winners (ranked in order of impressiveness of the victory—a combination of opponent and performance):

1. Elizabeth City State: 20-0 at Erskine

2. C atawba: 37-28 at Shaw

3. A pp State: 21-19 at ECU

4. B arton: 24-20 at Chowan

5. Western Carolina: 24-17 at Elon

6. J ohnson C. Smith: 52-6 over Lincoln (Pa.)

7. Lenoir-Rhyne: 38-17 over Tiffin

8. W ingate: 21-7 over Delta State

9. N C State: 30-20 over Louisiana Tech

10. D uke: 26-21 over UConn

11. N orth Carolina: 45-10 over NC Central

12. G uilford: 14-12 over Methodist

13. W inston-Salem State: 19-13 over Ohio Dominican

14. Livingstone: 23-21 over Allen, SC

15. Charlotte: 27-26 over Gardner-Webb

16. D avidson: 42-12 over Point

The Triangle ACC teams struggled against inferior foes at home. Charlotte had a miracle comeback to beat a lower-division foe, while Davidson played an NAIA school. Last week’s losers (ranked in order of impressiveness, despite the result):

1. Ga rdner-Webb: 27-26 at Charlotte

2. M ethodist: 14-12 at Guilford

3. N C Central: 45-10 at UNC

4. S haw: 37-28 to Catawba

5. Chowan: 24-20 to Barton

6. ECU: 21-19 to App State

7. Elon: 24-17 to Western Carolina

8. C ampbell: 21-9 at Rhode Island

9. St. Andrews: 41-6 at Cumberland

10. G reensboro: 27-20 to Averett

11. N C Wesleyan: 28-24 to Ferrum

12. Fayetteville State: 34-0 at Valdosta State

13. B revard: 51-30 to Hampden-Sydney

14. Wake Forest: 40-6 to Ole Miss

15. N C A&T: 42-13 to Delaware

• Off: Mars Hill, UNC Pembroke

Remaining unbeatens (6):

1. Du ke: 3-0

2. U NC: 3-0

3. J ohnson C. Smith: 3-0

4. Lenoir-Rhyne: 2-0

5. Wingate: 2-0

6. G uilford: 2-0

7. W inning records (8): ECU, NC State, App State, Davidson, Shaw, Winston-Salem State, Livingstone, Elizabeth City State: all 2-1

HURRICANES from page B1

Who’s having seconds?

The Hurricanes have topend talent at forward: Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov, Seth Jarvis and Martin Necas would be first-line players on many NHL teams. At least one will end up on the second line, but who will fill out the rest of the top six?

Second-line center will be up for grabs. Evgeny Kuznetsov, acquired at last year’s trade deadline, is gone to the KHL after he and the Hurricanes agreed to terminate his contract.

NC State medical staff helps cornerback Brandon Cisse (2) off the field during the Wolfpack’s win over Louisiana Tech.

At .500 (3)

• Fayetteville State, Barton, Catawba: all 1-1

Losing records (7):

• Charlotte, Wake Forest, Elon, Campbell, NC A&T, NC Central, Western Carolina: all 1-2

Still winless (9):

• Gardner-Webb, St. Andrews: 0-3

• UNC Pembroke, Chowan, NC Wesleyan, Greensboro, Methodist: 0-2

• Mars Hill, Brevard: 0-1

Name Game: Johnson C. Smith won the Eddie McGirt Classic, which is the name given to the Golden Bulls’ home opener in honor of the legendary coach. This week, Fayetteville State is at Elizabeth City State in the 27th annual Down East Viking Classic. NC A&T and NC Central meet in the Aggie/Eagle (or Eagle/Aggie, depending on your allegiances) Classic.

State title standings: Of the 33 teams in the state, 26 have played another North Carolina school. Two more — Mars Hill and Lenoir-Rhyne

— meet this weekend, leaving Johnson C. Smith, Livingstone, Brevard, NC Wesleyan and St. Andrews yet to play a state-title game. St. Andrews is the only team without one on its regular-season schedule.

• 2-0 UNC, Guilford

• 1-0 Duke, App State, NC State, Wake Forest, Campbell, Wingate, Davidson, Fayetteville State, Barton

• 1-1 NC A&T, Charlotte, Shaw, Elizabeth City State, Catawba

• 1-2 Elon, Western Carolina

• 0-1 ECU, Methodist, Greensboro, Gardner-Webb, Winston-Salem State

• 0-2 Chowan, NC Central, UNC Pembroke

State title games this week:

• NC A&T at NC Central

• Fayetteville State at Elizabeth City State

• Lenoir-Rhyne at Mars Hill

• Greensboro at Methodist

Out of state battles for Week Three:

South Alabama at App State on Thursday. Charlotte at Indiana. Gardner-Webb at Presbyterian. James Madison at UNC, Duke at Middle Tennessee. Western Carolina at Montana. ETSU at Elon. Stony Brook at Campbell. ECU at Liberty. NC State at Clemson. Barton at Emory & Henry. Catawba at Virginia-Wise. Lincoln University (PA) at Shaw. Livingstone at Bowie State. UNC Pembroke at Charleston, WV. Wingate at Carson Newman. Winston-Salem State at Virginia State. Belhaven at Brevard. Sewanee at Guilford. Huntingdon at NC Wesleyan

• Off: Wake Forest, Davidson, Chowan, St. Andrews

Bad neighbors: Averett joined James Madison as “foreign” schools with two wins against North Carolina teams, helping Virginia to a 8-3 record against in-state schools.

All-state performances for Week Three:

Quarterback: Joey Aguilar, App State, 424 yards, 32-of-47 passing, two touchdowns, 28 yards rushing

Running backs; Mari Adams, Davidson 207 yards, two touchdowns; Omarion Hampton, UNC, 210 yards, three touchdowns Receiver: Que-Sean Brown, Duke, 11 catchers, 87 yards (including 71 yards after catch), touchdown; Brevi Caldwell, JC Smith, 11 catches 152 yards, touchdown

Defensive line: Desmond Evans, UNC 4 tackles, 4 solo, 3 TFL, 1 sack, 1 PBU; Kahmari Brown, Elon, 5 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 2 sacks, forced fumble; JT Black, Lenoir-Rhyne, 5 tackles, TFL, half a sack, 75 -yard fumble return, PBU Linebacker: Trevor Moffitt, G-W, 6 tackles, 5 solo, TFL, sack, 45-yard pick six, forced fumble, recovered fumble, QB hit; Zakye Barker, ECU, team-high 13 tackles, 5 solo, 1.5 TFL, forced fumble

Defensive back: TJ Magee, Davidson, team high 8 tackles, 5 solo, 1.5 TFL, PBU

Special teams: Ken Moore Jr., Western Carolina, blocked a field goal that Jordy Lowry returned for the game-winning touchdown over Elon. Moore also had a TFL and forced fumble on defense.

Bailey set to lead Wolfpack in visit to No. 21 Clemson

With quarterback Grayson McCall sidelined with an injury, the true freshman will be at the reins of the offense against the Tigers

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

HISTORICALLY, the NC State Wolfpack have struggled whenever they’ve had to go down to Death Valley, with an overall record of 11-24 at Memorial Stadium. In fact, the last time the Pack beat the Clemson Tigers, George W. Bush was president, the very first season of American Idol premiered on Fox and Eminem had just released his hit single “Lose Yourself.”

But NC State head coach Dave Doeren doesn’t believe that history has any impact on the present.

“I don’t think the last 10 years matter,” Doeren said. “I don’t. In college football these days, every team has so many new parts. What matters is the guys on your team that have played against these kinds of teams, and we have a lot of players that have played well against Clemson. Obviously, we have to get the job done down there. That’s something we haven’t done. We’ve been close, but close doesn’t get it done.”

Saturday, the Wolfpack will be looking to finally get it done, and they’ll be relying on true freshman quarterback CJ Bailey — who, at 18, has never known a Wolfpack victory in Clemson — as they head down south to take on the No. 21 Tigers.

Doeren confirmed on a conference call Monday that starter Grayson McCall would not be available for the game against Clemson after the quarterback left Saturday’s game against Louisiana with an undisclosed injury.

“Grayson got dinged up,” Doeren said. “I’m not going to get into the injury, but it’s good news on him as it’s a day-to-day thing. We’re going to take our time. CJ’s ready to play and he’s our quarterback and we’re behind him.”

Last weekend’s game against the Bulldogs was Bailey’s first time throwing at the college level and he finished 13-for-20 with 156 passing yards as well as picking up 27 yards and a touchdown using his legs.

While Bailey was picked off on just his third throwing attempt after entering in relief for McCall, he settled in as the game progressed and found a groove with the offense, leading three second-half scoring drives.

“He’s a football player,” Doeren said. “That kid understands the game and he’s a winner. He’s excited. He’s a kid that’s excited to play the game

and I’m excited for him. You just go out there and do everything you can staff-wise to set him up for success. You know what the challenges are, and you try to give him every look possible so that he can be successful and play fast on Saturday.”

That preparation will certainly be a tall task for the staff though.

“[It’s] a great place to play football,” Doeren said. “It’s going to be a loud environment. … Arguably one of the hardest places to play in the ACC.

“I have great respect for their coaching staff and their players. It’s a trophy game, the only trophy game we have, and it means a lot to the universities that are playing in it all the way back to the Textile Bowl. It’s going to be a great matchup. A very talented team that we’re playing.”

In two games, Clemson has already experienced the epic highs and lows of college football, having suffered a blowout loss to Georgia in Week 1 and then thrashing App State in Week 2.

“They’re coming off of a game where they looked unstoppable and they scored 50+ points in the first half against a good Appalachian State football team,” Doeren said. “They were explosive in that game offensively, played some young receivers that really took the tops off of coverages and I thought [Cade] Klubnik threw the ball extremely well in that football game. He was very accurate, showed touch, showed range and we all know he can run.”

On top of the offense starting to mesh, Clemson also has a staunch defense and one of the best lines in college football.

For NC State to come out ahead, they’ll need a full-team, four-quarter effort, which has been a bit elusive for the slowstart prone Pack.

“For us, we just have to focus on getting better and playing four quarters,” Doeren said. “Just being as clean as we can, playing as hard as we can, straining as hard as we can and just being a little bit of a better version of ourselves each week.”

“NC State football teams over the years, we pride ourselves on improving as the year goes on and that takes an internal focus. It takes guys that are willing to admit the things they have to do better, coaches fixing things schematically and evolving over the course of the season. And we have to play a full game. We’ve had spurts in games where we’ve looked good and spurts where we’ve looked really bad. That’s the evolution of this football team. Learning the new parts and learning how to play together better and how we play NC State football.”

The Pack will be looking to put that evolution forth on the field and prove that history in fact doesn’t dominate the story.

With Jordan Staal entrenched in a bottom-six role, that leaves Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Jack Drury to battle for the spot. They had the same number of points last season (27), though Drury played in five fewer games and Kotkaniemi had 12 goals to Drury’s eight. Carolina certainly has more invested in Kotkaniemi, who has a $4.82 million cap hit through 2030 compared to Drury’s new two-year deal worth $1.725 million annually. It should be an open competition.

One of Jarvis or Necas will likely be on that wing, but who -

ever fills the other side is up for grabs.

Rookie Bradley Nadeau could provide some instant offense if he can adjust to the pro game as well as he made the jump from the BCHL to college hockey last year (at the draft, Hurricanes associate GM Darren Yorke said the transition Nadeau made last year might be tougher than leaping into pro hockey).

Felix Unger Sorum, Jackson Blake and Gleb Trikozov all played well in the Prospects Showcase in Nashville, but, like Nadeau, are any truly ready for major NHL minutes?

Jack Roslovic could force his way into the top six — perhaps even at center should the other two options falter — and one can never rule out Jordan Martinook as a tone-setter, at least in the short term. Camp invitee Sam Gagner hasn’t played 15-plus minutes a night since 2020-21, so that’s not the answer either. Nadeau may have a better chance than one would think.

Freddy or Pyotr

The Hurricanes’ three goalies are locked in, with Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov

NC State quarterback CJ Bailey (16) runs the ball between two Louisiana Tech defenders last Saturday.

in the top two spots and Spencer Martin as the No. 3. But who will be the true No. 1? If things go as planned, Carolina will likely have something like a 50/30 split in games. Who will get the 50?

Andersen certainly has the track record as a No. 1 but has played just 50 regular season games once in his three years in Raleigh. He will be 35 before opening night. Kochetkov is a decade younger and played in 42 games a season ago, but he will need to prove he can be more consistent to fully seize the top job from Andersen.

GENE GALIN FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

KARL B DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

CUMBERLAND

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE NO. 24-E-268 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Constantine G. Patronis, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before November 29, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 29th day of August, 2024.

Athanasia M. Patronis, Executor of the Estate of Constantine G. Patronis

NICOLE A. CORLEY

MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P.

N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD

FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990

COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE # 24E1180 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Christine Burgess, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 319 Carriage Lane,North Augusta, SC 29841, on or before December 5, 2024, or the notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 5th day of September, 2024. Barbara Walker, Executor of the Estate of Christine Burgess 319 Carriage Lane North Augusta, SC 29841 803-257-6135

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In the General Court Of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court of Division Estate File # 2024E. 000235

Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Jones Carrington McNeill deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before 05 of December, 2024(which day is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 28 day of August ,2024

Robert H Carrington Jr Administrator/Executor 2118 Coinjock Cir Fayetteville NC 28304 Of the Estate of Mary Jones Carrington McNeill Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF MARGARET SUNSOOK CHOI Cumberland County Estate File No. 2024 E 000424

All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Margaret Sunsook Choi, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Young Sammy Choi, Fiduciary, at 408 Kingsford Court, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28314, on or before the 19th day of December, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Fiduciary named above.

This the 13th day of September 2024. Young Sammy Choi Fiduciary and Executor of the Estate of Margaret Sunsook Choi 408 Kingsford Court Fayetteville, North Carolina 28314 Run dates: September 19, 26, October 3 and October 10, 2024

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF JOHN LEE DOUGLAS Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 1387

All persons, firms and corporations having claims against John Lee Douglas, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at HUTCHENS LAW FIRM, LLP, 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28312, on or before the 30th day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.

This the 21st day of August, 2024.

Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of John Lee Douglas

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF JUANITA CUNNINGHAM Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 1328

All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Juanita Cunningham, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 6th day of December, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.

This the 28th day of August, 2024.

Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of Juanita Cunningham

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311

Run dates: September 5, September 12, September 19 and September 26, 2024

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 24-E-1017

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Richard Thomas Craven, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before December 5, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 5th day of September, 2024.

Malinda Hutchinson Craven, Executor of the Estate of Richard Thomas Craven NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990

COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 24E 1122 ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Deloise Martinsus Clayton, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before December 03, 2024 (90 days from the date of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of September, 2024

William Clayton Executor of the Estate of Deloise Martinsus Clayton 1599 Rossmore Drive Fayetteville, North CArolina 28314

NOTICE

In the general court of justice Superior Court division Before the clerk File #24E1462 State of North Carolina Cumberland county Administrator notice

The undersigned Gary Blakely Having qualified as administrator of the estate of Jill Ferrel deceased of Cumberland County this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of December 2024 or notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery all persons indebted to the will please make immediate payment to the undersigned this 12th day of September 2024 Gary Blakely 2705 Bullard Ct Fayetteville NC 28312

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF BOBBIE PATRICIA GANN

Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 1354

All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Bobbie Patricia Gann, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Donna Lee Landers, Executor, at 208 Faison Ave. Apt. A. Fayetteville, NC 28304, on or before the 30th day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above.

This the 20th day of August, 2024.

Donna Lee Landers Executor of the Estate of Bobbie Patricia Gann

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311

Run dates: August 29, September 5, September 12, and September 19, 2024

NOTICE In The General Court of Justice

Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #24 E-1112 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Hilton Johnson, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of December, 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 12th day of September, 2024. Regina Byrd Administrator 1100 Clarendon Street, Apt. 508 Fayetteville, N.C. 28305 Publication date: 9/12/2024 9/19/2024 9/26/2024 10/3/2024

Administrator’s Notice IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE 24-E-229

State of North Carolina

Cumberland County

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Else L. Kennedy, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 5337 Plateau Court, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28303, on or before December 5, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of September, 2024. Hans Strout, Administrator of the Estate of Else L. Kennedy, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 9/5/2024, 9/12/2024, 9/19/2024 and 9/26/2024

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Tim Randall Oliver Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 515

All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Tim Randall Oliver, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Lisa D. Schutt, 80 Clay Street, Leroy, NY 14482 and Ronald M. Schutt, Sr., 2389 Lake Rd, Ontario, NY 14519 Co-Administrators, on or before the 13th day of December, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Co-Administrators named above.

This the 9th day of September, 2024. Lisa D. Schutt Ronald M. Schutt, Sr. Co-Administrators of the Estate of Tim Randall Oliver

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311

Run dates: September 12, September 19, September 26 and October 3, 2024

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE 2024 E 1511

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:

CHARLIE DAVIS MURPHY

ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the estate of Charlie Davis Murphy, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of December, 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) 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 19th day of September, 2024.

Cynthia M. Blackwell PO Box 48042

Fayetteville, NC 28331

Administrator of the estate of Charlie Davis Murphy, deceased Publication Dates

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

In The General Court of Justice COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Superior Court Division Estate File# 2024E 001267

Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having qualified as Patricia M Lowe of the Estate of James Frederick McKeithan, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before December 1, 2024 or the notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payments to the undersigned.

This 19th day of August 2024

Patricia M Lowe Administrator/Executor Address: 406 Andrew Ave, Timberlake NC 27583

Of the Estate of James Frederick McKeithan

Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF ROBERT P. KUNKEL

CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 24 E 1451

All persons, firms and corporations having claims

against Robert P. Kunkel, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Ann Fisher, Executor, at 1111 Sturbridge Dr., Durham, NC 27713, on or before the 20th day of December, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above.

This the 10th day of September, 2024.

Ann Fisher Executor of the Estate of Robert P. Kunkel

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311

Run dates: September 19, September 26, October 3 and October 10, 2024

NOTICE

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Mary B Ray, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before 15th day of December 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 12th day of September, 2024

Hubert

NOTICE

D WILLIAMS

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of Margaret Denise Williams, deceased, late Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of December, 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) 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 19th day of September 2024. 11901 Carters Creek Dr, Chesterfield VA 23838. Executor of the Estate of Margaret Denise Williams, deceased September 19,26, October 3,10th 2024.

CABARRUS

the property is located,

NOTICE

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File 24-E-933 In the Matter of the Estate of: Patsy M Thames

Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Patsy McKinnon Thames, deceased, late of Cumberland Cunty, this is to notify all person, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the December 19, 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) 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 12th day of September 2024.

E. David Thames 11089 Wilson Blvd Blythewood, SC 29016 Executor of the estate of Patsy McKinnon Thames deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF PATRICIA ROOF WIDDOWS

Cumberland County Estate file No. 24 E 1520

Having qualified as Executor of the estate of Patricia Roof Widdows, Late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does Hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 309 Kirkwood Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28303, on or before the 20th of December 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated 9-20-2024. Robert L. Widdows, Executor of the estate of Patricia Roof Widdows Robert Widdows 309 Kirkwood Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303 6910-867-2397

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE #24E971 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY Having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Betty Ann Moaney, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 5204 Thruway Rd, Hope Mills, N. C. 28348, on or before December 19, 2024, or the notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned, dated this 19th day of September, 2024. Tywana Bingham: Executor of Estate for Betty Ann Moaney 5204 Thruway Rd. Hope Mill , N.C. 28348 NEW HANOVER

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

24E1105 In the estate of Marjorie Lou Ard, AKA Marjorie Meeks Ard of New Hanover County, North Carolina, deceased. All claims against the above estate must be sent to the undersigned before the 15th day of December, 2024.

This the 30th day of August, 2024. Ivy Wiggins 3307 South College Road Wilmington, NC 28412 Executor of the Estate of Marjorie Lou Ard

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS

THE UNDERSIGNED, Linda J. Williams, having qualified on the 6th day of August 2024, as Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Norwood Wayne Cooper (2024-E-1006), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 23rd day of December, 2024, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address.

This 19th day of September 2024. Linda J. Williams Limited Personal Representative ESTATE OF NORWOOD WAYNE COOPER

David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: September 19, 2024 September 26, 2024 October 3, 2024 October 10, 2024

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS

THE UNDERSIGNED, Dia Ann-Marie

Rice, having qualified on the 3rd day of September 2024, as Administrator of the Estate of Michael Ralph Weathers (2024-E-1250), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 23rd day of December, 2024, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery.

at Page 0257 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 30, 2024 and

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 2, 2024 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE NUMBER ELEVEN (11) TOWNSHIP, CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING LOT NUMBER FOUR HUNDRED EIGHT (408) OF ST ANDREWS SUBDIVISION, PHASES 5 & 6, MAP 2, A MAP OF SAID PROPERTY BEING ON FILE IN MAP BOOK 41, PAGE 96, CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY, TO WHICH REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION THEREOF AS TO METES AND BOUNDS BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED BY DEED RECORDED IN DEED BOOK 5775, PAGE 217, CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS, RESERVATIONS, EASEMENTS, COVENANTS, OIL, GAS OR MINERAL RIGHTS OF RECORD, IF ANY Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5140 Hildreth Court, Concord, NC 28025. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kannapolis in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the City of Kannapolis, Number Four (4) Township, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being all of Lot No FIVE HUNDRED FIFTY NINE (559), Block E, as shown upon the map of Kannapolis Subdivision, SE Section V, a plat of which is duly recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, North Carolina in Book of Maps 19, Page 82. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 559 Reid Street, Kannapolis, North Carolina. For back title reference, see deed from Prosperity Unlimited, Inc, a North Carolina Corporation to Jeremy F Bowers and wife, Tingnong A Bowers, recorded contemporaneously herewith, Cabarrus County Registry 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

and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of John R. Lane. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the

pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form

cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot 18 or Torey Pines, Phase II, as recorded in Plat Book 42, Page 30, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, NC. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 405 Torey Pines Court, Winston Salem, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee

agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating

Lot 4, as shown on that Subdivision Plan of Parcels 4744257839, 4744256811, and 4744255896 for EDCO, said plat being recorded in Map Book 74, at Page 85 in the Iredell County Public Registry.

Property Address: 519 Davis Street, Statesville, NC 28677

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 519 Davis St, Statesville, NC 28677. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks)

JOHNSTON

of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge

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

and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are ALL LAWFUL HEIRS OF HARRELLA WEDINGTON.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the

Reasons of

ID: R08800-005-009-000 Present Record Owners: Michael P. Fann and Cheryle L. Fann The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Michael P. Fann and Cheryle L. Fann. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or

any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is

trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for

secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office

of the Register of Deeds of New Hanover County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in New Hanover County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 24, 2024, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot 282 of Section 3-F, of Brookfield as the same is shown on a map of said section of Brookfield recorded in Map Book 15 at Page 20 of the New Hanover County Registry.

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 132 Elder Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405 Tax ID: R04208-007-007-000

Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum

amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are The Estate of William T. Monroe and Donita S. Monroe. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 17 SP 675 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Flora D. Burnette (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Burnette Trust, Heirs of Flora D. Burnette a/k/a Flora Burnette: Robert Doub Burnette a/k/a Robert Burnette, a/k/a Robert D Burnette) to Rebecca W. Shaia, Trustee(s), dated February 21, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 4984, at Page 573 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 24, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All of Lot 244 in Lincoln Forest Subdivision, Section D, Extension 3, as the same is shown on map recorded in Map Book 9 at Page 15 in the New Hanover County Registry, and being the same lands described in the deed recorded in Book 3354, at Page 712, in said Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3825 Canterbury Road, Wilmington, North Carolina.Parcel ID Number: R06109-001001-000 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.

Guarantor) to 24 Hour Closing, Trustee(s), dated January 11, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 5899, at Page 563 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the

RANDOLPH

24 SP 149 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, RANDOLPH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jerry W Whitaker and Helen L Whitaker to Cynthia Porterfield, Trustee(s), which was dated December 11, 2020 and recorded on December 11, 2020 in Book 2731 at Page 2219, Randolph County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 23sp241 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY TAMMIE J. HEDRICK DATED APRIL 29, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1918 AT PAGE 3732 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance

Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on September 25, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 12, Block O, as shown on that certain plat entitled “Subdivision Map #7, showing a part of Northwoods, Jacksonville, North Carolina,” dated February, 1955, prepared by Herndon Edgerton, Engineer, and recorded in Map Book 4, Page 63, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 521 Jarman Street, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Address 521 Jarman Street, Jacksonville NC 28540 Tax parcel 007782

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.

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 3, 2024 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Randolph County, North Carolina, to wit:

BEING LOTS NOS. 82 AND 83 OF THE W.C. WINSLOW PROPERTY IN SUBDIVISION MADE BY HORNEY BROTHERS LAND COMPANY, A PLAT OF SAID SUBDIVISION BEING RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, AT PAGE 6, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR RANDOLPH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 155 Lexington Road, Asheboro, NC 27205.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the

auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 3, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Tammie J. Hedrick, dated April 29, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $97,440.00, and recorded in Book 1918 at Page 3732 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 309 Lake Dr, Archdale, NC 27263 Tax Parcel ID: 7708786200 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Tammie J. Hedrick

county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 24, 2024 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Randolph County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 85, PHASE 7, EAGLE CREEK SUBDIVISION, AS PER PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 70, PAGE 85, RANDOLPH COUNTY REGISTRY.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 2862 Eagle Point Drive, Trinity, NC 27370.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and

“AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold

remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are JERRY W. WHITAKER AND WIFE, HELEN L. WHITAKER.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Tammie J. Hedrick. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars

owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of George Kern.

subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. §

in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

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.

($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen

Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request

Trustee

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a

Register of Deeds of Union County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Union County, North Carolina, at 10:00 AM on October 3rd, 2024, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 108 of SHANNON VISTA, PHASE 2, MAP 1, as same Is shown on a map thereof recorded in Plat Cabinet K, Page 563, in the UNION County Public Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 5617 Verrazano Drive, Waxhaw, NC 28173 Tax ID: 06054459 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional

part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven

Fifty Dollars

whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Ernest S. Chavis and Sharna M. Chavis. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and

1632, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF WAKE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA.

against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the

North Carolina Registry. The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by MIGUEL MELO PEREZ and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Popular Bank, formerly known as Banco Popular North America. The Commissioner will offer for sale to the highest bidder at a public auction at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 2, 2024 at 10:00 AM the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Wake County, North Carolina and described as follows: BEING ALL OF LOT 74, CARRINGTON WOODS SUBDIVISION, PHASE 6-B, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS 1997, PAGE

of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on September 23, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Cary in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of WAKE, State of NC, and is described as follows: BEING all of Lot 181, Phase 8, Section 2, Lochmere Subdivision, a portion of Lochmere P.U.D., as shown by plat recorded in Book of Maps 1986, Page 1852, Wake County Registry. Being the same property as conveyed from Bobby D. Bames and spouse, Dana T. Bames to Carlos Cuello and spouse, Santiago Rodao as set forth in Deed Book 17383 Page 307 dated 03/06/2019, recorded 03/14/2019, WAKE County, NORTH CAROLINA, Tax ID: 20157848. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 150 Lochwood West Drive, Cary, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

The above described property will be sold, transferred and conveyed “AS IS, WHERE IS” subject to liens or encumbrances of record which are superior to such Deed of Trust, together with all unpaid taxes and assessments and any recorded releases. Neither the Commissioner nor the holder of the debt secured by such Deed of Trust, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Commissioner or the holder of the debt make any representation of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health, or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such conditions expressly are disclaimed. The Commissioner shall convey title to the property by non-warranty deed, without any covenants or warranties, express or implied. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 1-339.29 (c) in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the judge or clerk of superior court of the

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold

subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to

Under arrest

Ryan Wesley Routh, a Greensboro native, was arrested Sunday by law enforcement officers in Martin County, Florida, and is suspected in an apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump. Routh, who has several felony convictions in North Carolina, was held on federal gun charges after an initial court appearance on Monday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Customer kills

18-year-old at N.C. Waffle House

A Waffle House customer fatally shot an 18-year- old worker in Laurinburg police say. Officers responding to a report of shots fired at the restaurant early Friday found Burlie Dawson Locklear, of Red Springs, a 2024 graduate of Hoke High School, suffering from a gunshot wound. He later died at a hospital. Police say the customer ordered food, became verbally abusive to staffers and fired two shots toward the restaurant as he walked back to his vehicle with his order. News outlets report police were looking for the shooter and have obtained a warrant. The restaurant chain said in a statement that Locklear was a victim of an outrageous act of violence.

Court overturns Granville sheriff’s fraud conviction

A state appeals court has overturned a former county sheriff’s fraud and obstruction convictions from late 2022.

A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ex-Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins on Tuesday. Wilkins served as sheriff for 10 years and has been serving time in state prison. The intermediate-level appeals court said that allegations related to Wilkins falsifying his firearms training requirements didn’t meet the necessary elements for the obstruction and fraud charges. The ruling comes seven months after a subordinate to Wilkins had his obstruction convictions related to the training overturned. The exsheriff pleaded to unrelated crimes last fall.

Albemarle receives awards from ElectriCities of NC

COURTESY THE CITY OF ALBEMARLE

Left to right, Albemarle City Manager Todd Clark, Albemarle City Councilman Dr. Chris Bramlett, Albemarle City Councilman Chris Whitley, Albemarle Assistant City Manager Darren Rhodes, Albemarle Public Utilities Director Jay Voyles, Albemarle Mayor Pro-Tem Martha Sue Hall, Albemarle Mayor Ronnie Michael, Albemarle Electric Superintendent Bryan Chandler and Albemarle Assistant Public Utilities Director Bryan Hinson

The city was honored with Public Power Awards of Excellence

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

ALBEMARLE — The city of Albemarle revealed last week that it has been awarded for the quality of its electrical utility system.

In a Sept. 10 media release, city officials announced that Albemarle was recently honored with three Public Power Awards of Excellence from ElectriCities of North Carolina, signifying recognitions in the categories of Future-focused, Strengthen Public Power, and People.

Stanly Community Christian Ministry holds open house event

The Stanly County Chamber of Commerce served as host

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

ALBEMARLE — Now two years in the making, Stanly Community Christian Ministry’s renovation and expansion project has come to a completion.

The Stanly County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting open house event earlier this month to celebrate the grand re-opening of the nonprofit assistance center at 506 S. First St. in Albemarle. Along with SCCM staff, volunteers and board members, representatives from the Stanly Chamber attended the Sept. 6 event as the renovated facility

was unveiled to the public with a tour to showcase a larger food warehouse — now expanded by 5,000 square feet — as well as additional office space, a new volunteer training room, and a new project assembly room.

These architectural changes are the direct result of SCCM’s Growing to Serve Campaign, which was kickstarted in 2022 in order to encourage financial donations.

“We are excited to be invited today to help with this ribbon cutting for Stanly Community Christian Ministry’s newly-renovated facility,” said Erica Church, president of the Stanly County Chamber of Commerce. “It’s just an honor to see that this organization goes above and beyond to share love and hope to those facing food insecurity within our community. It’s an honor for us to be a

“We’re thrilled to be here today cutting the ribbon and moving to full service of this facility.”

Stanly Community Christian Ministry Director Heather Kilde

part of this celebration today.”

Prior to the conclusion of the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Heather Kilde, executive director at SCCM, spoke to those in attendance and provided updates on the nonprofit ministry’s performance in the community.

“We’re thrilled to be here today cutting the ribbon and moving to full service of this facility,” Kilde said. “We’ve been

“It took great teamwork from our entire electric staff to once again earn Public Power Awards of Excellence,” said Jay Voyles, director of public utilities for the City of Albemarle. “These awards demonstrate the city’s commitment to efficient, reliable service that benefits our community now and in the years to come. I thank our team for their work to continually make Albemarle a leading provider of public power.”

ElectriCities is a membership organization that provides power supply and other related services to more than 90 community-owned electric systems in the Carolinas and Virginia.

The awards given by the organization are designed to reflect public power’s strategic priorities and to recognize exceptional achievement.

“This year’s Public Power Awards of Excellence recipients are shining examples

open since October, but the final touches have been made today.”

Kilde stated that SCCM’s two free-dining community table spots — located in both Albemarle and Norwood — have provided over 100,000 meals to community members so far in 2024, while each city’s SCCM-affiliated food pantry has shared approximately 337,000 pounds of food and 28,000 pounds of food, respectively.

The nonprofit has also provided an estimated $150,000 worth of financial assistance in the form of rent and utility assistance to community members.

“We couldn’t do any of this without our volunteers,” Kil-

THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

MARTIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

North State Journal

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Neal Robbins, Publisher

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Jesse Deal, Reporter

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BUSINESS

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CRIME LOG

Sept. 10

• Barret Wade Strickland, 51, was arrested for assault by strangulation, assault inflicting serious injury, assault inflicting serious injury with a minor present, assault on a child under 12, assault on a female, and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

Sept. 11

• Arthur Eugene Wright, 49, was arrested for communicating threats and injury to personal property.

Sept. 12

• Joseph Chad Smith, 41, was arrested for possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II controlled substance, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana, maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances, manufacturing/selling/ delivering/possessing controlled substance within 1000 feet of a park, possession of marijuana paraphernalia, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to appear.

• Jeremy Lee Schweizer, 43, was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, communicating threats, and injury to personal property.

• Joseph Solomon Efird, 32, was arrested for possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances, manufacturing/selling/ delivering/possessing controlled substance within 1000 feet of a park, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Desiree Lynn Coleman, 24, was arrested for failure to appear, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of drug paraphernalia, and larceny of a motor vehicle.

Sept. 15

• Rolando Bautista, 26, was arrested for assault on a female and domestic criminal trespass.

Harris touts GOP endorsements in NC visit

The VP made campaign stops in Charlotte and Greensboro

The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE — Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump launched campaign blitzes last Thursday with dramatically different approaches to attracting swing-state voters who will decide the presidential contest.

Here in North Carolina, Democratic nominee Harris used rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro to tout endorsements from Republicans who have crossed the aisle to back her. She also promised to protect access to health care and abortion, while delighting her partisan crowds with celebrations of her debate performance last week, taking digs at Trump and cheerleading for her campaign and the country.

“We’re having a good time, aren’t we?” Harris declared, smiling as her boisterous crowd chanted: “USA! USA! USA!”

“I was angry at the debate,”

Trump said at a rally in Arizona, mocking commentators’ description of his performance at the debate last week. “And, yes, I am angry,” he said, because “everything is terrible” since Harris and President Joe Biden are “destroying our country.”

As he repeated the word “angry,” Trump’s crowd in Tucson answered with its own “USA! USA! USA!” chants.

Trump’s vice presidential candidate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, made a stop in Raleigh on Wednesday, and former President Trump is scheduled to

hold a rally in Wilmington this Saturday. Trump visited both Asheville and Asheboro in separate appearances last month.

The competing visions and narratives underscored the starkly different choices faced by voters in the battleground states that will decide the outcome. Harris is casting a wide net, depending on Democrats’ diverse coalition and hoping to add moderate and even conservative Republicans repelled by the former president. Trump, while seeking a broad working-class coalition with his tax ideas, is digging in on arguments about the country — and his political opponents — that are aimed most squarely at his most strident supporters.

The post-debate blitz reflected the narrow path to 270 Electoral College votes for both candidates, with the campaign already having become concentrated on seven swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Harris’ itinerary put her in a state Trump won twice, but his margin of 1.3 percentage points in 2020 was his closest statewide victory. Arizona, meanwhile, was one of Trump’s narrowest losses four years ago. He won the state in 2016.

In North Carolina, Harris took her own post-debate victory lap, and her campaign already has cut key moments of the debate into ads. But Harris warned against overconfidence, calling herself an underdog and making plain the stakes.

“This is not 2016 or 2020,” she said in Charlotte. “Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails.”

She touted endorsements from Republican former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney, both of whom have deemed Trump a fundamental threat to American values and democracy.

“Democrats, Republicans and independents are supporting our campaign,” Harris said in Charlotte, praising the Cheneys and like-minded Republicans as citizens who recognize a need to “put country above party and defend our Constitution.”

Yet she also made a full-throated defense of the Affordable Care Act, the 2010 law commonly called “Obamacare” and passed over near-unanimous Republican opposition. She mocked Trump, who has spent years promising to scrap the ACA but said at their debate that he still has no specific replacement in mind.

“He said, ‘concepts of a plan,’” Harris said. “Concepts. Concepts. No actual plan. Concepts. ... Forty-five million Americans are insured through the Affordable Care Act. And he’s going to end it based on a concept.”

She saddled Trump again with the Supreme Court’s decision to end a woman’s federal right to abortion, paving the way for Republican-led states to severely restrict and in some cases effectively ban the procedure.

“Women are being refused care during miscarriages. Some are only being treated when they develop sepsis,” Harris said of states with the harshest restrictions.

The vice president added her usual broadsides against Proj-

ect 2025, a 900-page policy agenda written by conservatives for a second Trump administration. Trump has distanced himself from the document, though there is a notable overlap between it and his policies — and, for that matter, some of the policy aims of Republicans like the Cheneys.

Harris’ approach in Charlotte and Greensboro tracked perhaps her widest path to victory: exciting and organizing the diverse Democratic base, especially younger generations, nonwhite voters and women, while convincing moderate Republicans who dislike Trump that they should be comfortable with her in the Oval Office, some policy disagreements notwithstanding. That’s the same formula Biden used in defeating Trump four years ago, flipping traditionally GOP-leaning states like Arizona and Georgia and narrowing the gap in North Carolina.

Trump, meanwhile, appears to bet that his path back to the White House depends mostly on his core supporters, plus enough new support from working- and middle-class voters drawn to his promises of tax breaks.

A raucous crowd cheered his new promise to end taxes on overtime wages. The Harris campaign quickly labeled the proposal a “snake oil sales pitch,” noting the Trump administration abandoned Obama administration plans to vastly expand the number of workers eligible for overtime pay in favor of a less generous expansion.

“We are going to bring back the American dream bigger, better and stronger than ever before,” Trump said, beaming.

EVENT from page A1

de added. “Our volunteers this year have worked 16,800 hours for the ministry that we do not have to pay staff for. We really appreciate that contingent of volunteers that shows

AWARD from page A1

of the value of public power,” said ElectriCities CEO Roy Jones. “These outstanding communities prioritize local needs and put their customers first as they develop innovative solutions to provide safe, reliable power with superior service. We’re honored to celebrate these communities, and we’re grateful for all they do to provide value to their customers.”

Albemarle’s Future-focused award is an honor for communities that “develop a forward-thinking mindset.”

In this instance, the city was celebrated for its LED streetlight replacement program that enhanced energy efficiency and improved street

up regularly, weekly. Our guys that hang out in the back, the people that hang clothes at the closet, and those that serve our neighbors directly at our tables are really important to us. Thank you so much.”

Since 1985, SCCM has con-

visibility, an electric line replacement project for approximately 4.5 miles of primary electric lines, and a new customer information and utility billing system that will soon track energy consumption in real time.

Through the rollout of that system, the city will aim to allow public power customers to track and adjust their daily usage in order to put more money back into their wallets.

For the city’s Strengthen Public Power award, Albemarle was recognized for its various outreach efforts, including lineworker visits to local schools, customer appreciation gifts during Public Power Week, utility bill inserts, and social media posts.

Lastly, in the People award

tinued to serve in its mission to provide food, financial and clothing assistance to those in need. It has been headquartered out of its 506 S. First Street building for the past 29 years, now offering over 10 pro -

“It took great teamwork from our entire electric staff to once again earn Public Power Awards of Excellence.”

Jay Voyles, director of public utilities for the City of Albemarle

category, the city was honored for “leveraging its people as its greatest asset” through both the ElectriCities Apprentice Lineworker Program and Stanly Community College’s Electrical Lineworker Training Program. The former is a comprehen-

Stanly Community Christian Ministry staff, volunteers and board members stand with representatives from the Stanly County Chamber of Commerce at the Sept. 6 ribboncutting event.

grams to serve Stanly County and averaging a completion of 72,000 client requests per year. More information about SCCM and its series of assistance programs is available at sccminc.org.

sive program that allows lineworkers to obtain their journeyman card — nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor — as a mastery-level certification for professionals, while the latter is a 12-week program where students are instructed by City of Albemarle Electric Division staff to learn the critical labor skills of the electrical power distribution systems. According to information provided by the city, nearly 1.3 million people in over 70 cities and towns across North Carolina get their electricity from public power providers; these public power communities which own their electric systems have the ability to maintain local control and decision-making over their operations.

COURTESY STANLY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | DENNIS PRAGER

You hate Trump? So what?

Hillary Clinton repeatedly said that she was “robbed” of a victory, that the 2016 election was “stolen.”

A GREAT MANY Americans claim that they cannot vote for former President Donald Trump because they loathe him.

That was also their argument in 2016 and 2020. That argument was childish in 2016 and 2020, and it remains childish in 2024.

I say “childish” because mature people don’t vote on the basis of whom they like. They vote on the basis of which candidate is best for their country.

As I asked both eight years ago and four years ago, other than friends and a spouse, whom do you choose based on how much you like a person?

Do you choose your surgeon on that basis? If you or a loved one had cancer and were presented with a choice of two surgeons, one known to be an honorable man and loyal husband, the other known for his abrasive personality and for being a womanizer but also known as one of the best cancer surgeons in the country, which would you choose?

We all know the answer. So, why would you choose a president based on marital fidelity or personality traits?

Though they always mention Trump “the liar” (as far as truth-telling is concerned, Trump is Abe Lincoln compared to President Joe Biden), Trump “the adulterer,” Trump “the mean” and now Trump “the felon” (although no one can tell you what he was charged with), Trump haters would respond that those are not the only reasons why they would never vote for Trump. He is, they constantly tell us, a threat to democracy.

Trump haters have to say that — because they know that merely listing his alleged and actual obnoxious personal traits makes them look

foolish. The problem, however, is that the claim that Trump would end democracy in America is baseless. He was already president for four years, and he in no way threatened democracy. Of course, Trump haters will point to Jan. 6 — and only to Jan. 6 because they have no other example from all four years of the Trump presidency of Trump allegedly threatening democracy.

But Jan. 6 is a phony example. That day, Trump explicitly told his supporters to go peacefully to the Capitol. And it was Trump who, on Jan. 4, explicitly requested and authorized 10,000 National Guard troops to guard the capital and the Capitol. It was Nancy Pelosi and the mayor of Washington, D.C., who refused his request.

Then there are Trump’s repeated claims that the 2020 election was “stolen.” That claim, according to Trump haters, constitutes a “threat to democracy.” But Hillary Clinton repeatedly said that she was “robbed” of a victory, that the 2016 election was “stolen.” But not one Trump hater ever characterized her claim as “a threat to democracy.” Nor, for that matter, did any Republicans. Because that claim doesn’t constitute a threat to democracy.

The charge is made solely because Trump haters ... hate Trump.

Furthermore, and most important, there has been, and is, a real threat to democracy. But it is coming entirely from the Democrats.

For the first time in American history, under Biden, the Department of Justice has been weaponized against political opponents.

For the first time in American history, this country has political prisoners. Steven Bannon and Peter Navarro are just two examples. Jan. 6 prisoners have been wildly overcharged

and placed in solitary confinement over minor infractions.

For the first time in American history, a former president and the nominee of one of the two major political parties has been arrested and put on trial — on nonsensical charges, moreover.

For the first time in American history, an administration has colluded with Big Tech to suppress political speech they consider unfriendly.

For the first time in American history, one major party has attempted to remove the presidential nominee of the other major party from multiple state ballots.

And the intelligence agencies have been likewise politicized. Fifty-one current and former heads of intelligence agencies lied on behalf of the Democratic presidential nominee when they signed a statement right before the 2020 election declaring that the Hunter Biden laptop story was the product of Russian disinformation.

This country has a deep state that is dedicated to serving the Democratic Party.

Things will get much worse if Vice President Kamala Harris is elected. Government censorship of political opponents will increase. Arrests of political opponents will increase. And government control of industries — like setting food prices — has already been promised.

We know how bad things will get because we know what the Biden-Harris administration has already done to the country. Because we know what Harris and her fellow California Democrats have done to California. And because we know what Gov. Tim Walz has done to Minnesota.

To vote for the Democrats because one hates Trump is not merely childish. When how one feels about Donald Trump is more important than the future of the country, we are dealing with something far more serious than childishness. We are dealing with destructive narcissism. Dennis Prager is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host and columnist.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing.

“THE CROWN has made it clear. The climate must be perfect all the year.”

– Oscar Hammerstein

Like the fictional Camelot, home of King Arthur and his mighty knights, Kamala Harris’s Democratic presidential campaign has a gauzy, fairy tale aura about it.

After Harris’ nearly four years of service under the Biden administration, a magic wand has created a new set of clothes. Harris has repeatedly stated that her values have not changed, there is no daylight between President Joe Biden’s policies and her own. A champion of the Green New Deal, Harris believes this policy is the way forward.

The Green New Deal, a reference to President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, was first discussed by Thomas Friedman in 2007, suggesting a departure from “dirty coal and oil energy” into renewables. U.S. House Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) proposed a resolution to create a Green New Deal in 2019. It failed an initial procedural vote. Even the late Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about this idea. Consider how the Green New Deal would be realized in our communities.

First on the list of 10 tenets is “guaranteeing a job with a family-sustaining wage … family and medical leave, vacations and retirement security to all people of the United States.” Fantastic. Unfortunately, under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing due to the influx of undocumented immigrants flooding the labor force. They are willing to work for anything, they are paid in cash and they avoid taxes. This displaces

the entry-level job seeker who must report his earnings and pay taxes. Additionally, this person is denied the benefit of early, on-the-job experience.

McDonald’s cites many successful people, including Harris, as members of the 12.5% of Americans who got their start slinging burgers. Considering the tax-free status of the undocumented worker, one must acknowledge that his “retirement security” is funded by your Social Security contribution.

Second on the Green New Deal list is “high quality health care … affordable, safe and adequate housing … access to clean water, clean air ... healthy and affordable food.” Too good to be true?

The Biden-Harris Health and Human Services Department squandered Americans’ trust trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Each bad decision fostered by the Fauci fraternity — mask up, lock down — was countered by a stimulus check, obscuring the damage caused by those reckless measures. The receipts are in and generations will pay for the damage to our culture.

“Affordable, safe and adequate housing” is touted as the American Dream. Harris has suggested giving a $25,000 subsidy to certain first-time home buyers to get on board the Polar Express. The real American dream would provide housing and services to our veterans, our sick and disabled. On a single night in January 2023, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported more than 650,000 men, women and children on the street, homeless and hopeless. This is an American disgrace.

Third on the list of 10 principles of the Green New Deal is “providing resources, training and high-quality education … to all people of the United States.” This is fantasy.

We are experiencing a massive shortage of teachers, day care providers and staff employees. Public schools are captured by

the Department of Education and hostage to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. In a controlled burn, this trifecta has managed to achieve the following results: 50% of adults in this country cannot read above eighth grade level, 3 of 4 people on welfare cannot read at all and 50% of unemployed people aged 16-21 are functionally illiterate.

Bolstering these averages is the charter school concept, which bypasses the union control and foregoes some regulatory requirements. The success of the charter model has been rewarded by having their budget reduced by millions in the Biden-Harris 2025 proposal.

Teachers are at the mercy of burdensome regulations, low pay and students socially unprepared for the rigors of institutional learning. Working parents, challenged with financial obligations and inflationary expenses, cannot find or afford quality day care. Some have waited two years to enroll a child in a facility, allowing the parent to return to employment.

The real new deal would prioritize our child development initiatives and education beginning at infancy. We must implement a culture where children are valued, educated, socialized and incentivized to take on the challenges of America’s future.

The remaining seven tenets of the Green New Deal aspire to sweep the Earth clean of pollutants, cleanse the cattle and power up the electrical grid. All very aspirational. The price to accomplish these magnificent seven is estimated at $8.1 trillion by the American Action Forum. Sustaining these goals is inestimable.

The script for the Harris-Walz campaign production for the presidency requires you to suspend reality and close the curtain on the disastrous Biden-Harris administration. The cost of the ticket to watch this play is unaffordable. Connie Lovell lives in Southern Pines.

COLUMN | CONNIE LOVELL

Kamalot

Hezbollah hit by a wave of exploding pagers, blames Israel; at least 9 dead, thousands injured

The Israeli military declined to comment

By Bassem Mroue The Associated Press

BEIRUT — Pagers used by hundreds of members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded near simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday, killing at least nine people – including an 8-year-old girl -- and wounding several thousand, officials said. Hezbollah and the Lebanese government blamed Israel for what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack.

Among those wounded was Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon. The mysterious explosions came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza.

The pagers that blew up had apparently been acquired by Hezbollah after the group’s leader ordered members in February to stop using cellphones, warning they could be tracked by Israeli intelligence. A Hezbollah official told The Associated Press the pagers were a new brand, but declined to say how long they had been in use.

At about 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as people shopped for groceries, sat in cafes or drove cars and motorcycles in

the afternoon traffic, the pagers in their hands or pockets started heating up and then exploding — leaving blood-splattered scenes and panicking bystanders.

It appeared that many of those hit were members of Hezbollah, but it was not immediately clear if others also carried the pagers.

The blasts were mainly in areas where the group has a strong presence, particularly a southern Beirut suburb and in the Beqaa region of eastern Lebanon, as well as in Damascus, according to Lebanese security of-

ficials and a Hezbollah official.

The Hezbollah official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

The AP reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment. The explosions came hours after Israel’s internal security agency said it had foiled an attempt by Hezbollah to kill a former senior Israeli security official using a planted explosive device that could be remotely detonated.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the United States “was not aware

of this incident in advance” and was not involved. “At this point, we’re gathering information,” he said.

Experts said the pager explosions pointed to a long-planned operation, possibly carried out by infiltrating the supply chain and rigging the devices with explosives before they were delivered to Lebanon.

Whatever the means, it targeted an extraordinary breadth of people with hundreds of small explosions — all at once, wherever the pager carrier happened to be — that left some maimed.

One video circulating online showed a man picking through produce at a grocery store when the bag he was carrying at his hip explodes, sending him sprawling to the ground and bystanders running.

At overwhelmed hospitals, the wounded were rushed in on stretchers, some with missing hands, faces partly blown away or gaping holes at their hips and legs near the pocket area, according to AP photographers.

On a main road in central Beirut, a car door was splattered with blood and the windshield cracked.

Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said to Qatar’s Al Jazeera network at least nine people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl, and some 2,750 were wounded — 200 of them critically — by the explosions. Most had injuries in the face, hand, or around the abdomen.

Hezbollah said in a statement that two of its members were among those killed. One of them was Mahdi Ammar, the son of a Hezbollah member in parliament, and two sons of other prominent figures were wounded, said the Hezbollah official who spoke anonymously.

“We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression that also targeted civilians,” Hezbollah said, adding that Israel will “for sure get its just punishment.”

Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.

Previously, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying they could be used by Israel to track their movements and carry out targeted strikes.

Sean Moorhouse, a former British Army officer and explosive ordnance disposal expert, said videos of the blasts suggested a small explosive charge – as small as a pencil eraser –had been placed into the devices. They would have had to have been rigged prior to delivery.

“It seems very likely that all of these encrypted pagers were modified prior to Hezbollah purchasing them, which implies a very successful Mossad operation.” he said, referring to Israel’s foreign intelligence agency.

4 found dead in eastern Romania rainstorms

Hundreds have been stranded in the eastern part of the country

By Stephen McGrath and Andreea Alexandru

The Associated Press

BUCHAREST, Romania —

Four people in eastern Romania have been found dead after torrential storms dumped unprecedented rain, leaving hundreds stranded in flooded areas, emergency authorities said Saturday.

Rescue services scrambled to save people in the hard-hit eastern counties of Galati and Vaslui. The bodies of three older women and one man were found in four localities, the Department for Emergency Situations said.

Emergency authorities released video footage showing teams of rescuers evacuating people using small lifeboats through muddy waters and car-

rying some older people to safety.

Some of the most significant flood damage was concentrated in Galati where 5,000 households were affected. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed there to help with the search and rescue efforts.

The storms battered 19 localities in eight counties in Romania, with strong winds downing dozens of trees that damaged cars and blocked roads and traffic. Authorities sent text message alerts to residents to warn them of adverse weather as emergency services rushed to remove floodwaters from homes. By 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, more than 250 people had been evacuated with the help of 700 interior ministry personnel deployed to affected communities, authorities said.

“What we are trying to do right now is save as many lives as possible,” Romanian Environment Minister Mircea

Fechet, who was on his way to Galati to assess the situation, told The Associated Press.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis offered his condolences to the victims’ bereaved families, writing on Facebook: “We must continue to strengthen our capacity to anticipate extreme weather phenomena.”

“Severe floods that have affected a large part of the country have led to loss of lives and significant damage,” Iohannis said. “We are again dealing with the effects of climate change, which are increasingly present throughout the European continent, with dramatic consequences on people.”

The stormy weather impacted several central European nations. In Czechia, river waters reached dangerously high levels in dozens of areas, prompting the authorities to evacuate hundreds of people, including from a hospital in the second-largest city of Brno, to escape raging floods.

A 54-year-old man was missing, police said, after he fell in a flooded stream in the southeast of the country, while another three people were swept away in a car by a river in the northeast.

By Saturday evening, Czech authorities had declared the highest flood warnings in more than 70 areas across the country and said that thousands more people should be prepared to be evacuated as the rains continued to slam down. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute said such “extreme floods” in those regions only occur about once a century.

In neighboring Austria, authorities declared 24 villages in the northeast Lower Austria province “disaster zones” on Saturday afternoon and began evacuating residents from those areas.

Heavy rain also hit Moldova on Saturday, where emergency workers pumped floodwater

from dozens of peoples’ homes in several localities, and 13 localities in three districts suffered partial electricity outages, authorities said. In Poland, dozens of people were evacuated as a precautionary measure on Saturday from two villages near the town of Nysa, in the Nysa River basin, after meteorologists warned of unprecedented rainfall. Some farms were flooded. Water levels continued to rise Saturday, and some roads and streets in the cities of Krakow and Katowice were flooded, and water penetrated the basement of a hospital in Krakow, though firefighters quickly pumped it out. Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that “the worst is yet to come.” Polish authorities appealed to residents on Friday to stock up on food and to prepare for power outages by charging power banks. The weather change arrived following a hot start to September in the region, including in Romania. Scientists have documented Earth’s hottest summer, breaking a record set just a year ago.

ROMANIAN EMERGENCY SERVICES / ISU GALATI VIA AP

A rescuer carries a woman in Pechea, Romania, on Saturday after torrential rainstorms left scores of people stranded in flooded areas.

HUSSEIN MALLA / AP PHOTO

Civil Defense first-responders carry a wounded man whose handheld pager exploded at al-Zahraa hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

STANLY SPORTS

North Stanly edges past rival Colts in triple-overtime showdown

South Stanly also picked up a Week 4 victory

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

IT TOOK A TRIO of overtime periods to make it happen, but the North Stanly varsity football team came away with a 38-37 home victory over West Stanly this past Thursday night in New London’s R.N. Jeffrey Stadium.

In their one-point win, the Comets (3-1) were able to climb back from a 21-7 halftime deficit as they dropped 21 points on the winless Colts (0-4) in the fourth quarter alone.

Wrapping up the conclusion of this back-and-forth showdown, North running back Juice Lilly gave the Comets a touchdown in triple-overtime to break open a 31-31 tie before kicker Noah Carter knocked in a crucial extra-point.

The Colts responded as quarterback Maverick Scott found Dominic Danzy in the end zone to set up a possible game-tying kick, but West opted to go for broke with a two-point conversion that came up empty.

Scott finished with 114 pass-

Chris Buescher (17) competes in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Watkins Glen, New York.

ing yards, four touchdowns and one interception; Comets quarterback Charlie Shaver had 195 passing yards, three touchdowns and one interception.

North running back Aden Allsbrook topped all running backs with 169 yards and a score, while North wide receiver Jaylon McKoy racked up 125 yards and three touchdowns.

Coming up next, the Comets are set to rest for a bye week before traveling to Forest Hills (22) on Sept. 27. Still looking for their first win of the year, the Colts will head to Mount Pleasant (3-1) on Friday night.

South Stanly 66, South Davidson 0

Over in Norwood, the South Stanly Rebel Bulls (2-1) defeated the South Davidson Wildcats (0-4) in a 66-point landslide home victory, marking South’s largest win since a 69-0 win over North Moore in 2010.

South piled on 28 unanswered first-quarter points followed by 24 unanswered second-quarter points, allowing quarterback Kaleb Richardson to flourish with over 35 yards per completion — the junior finished with 283 passing yards on

top of four touchdowns.

Wide receivers Jasiah Holt, Kylan Dockery, and Jayden Woods each notched over 80 receiving yards as Richardson and running backs I’key Holt and Carter Callicutt each found the end zone on rushing attempts.

The Bulls are set to hit the road to take on the Wheatmore Warriors (0-4) on Friday.

Anson 41, Albemarle 0

After the previous week’s 3314 road win over the Colts, the Albemarle Bulldogs (1-3) came back down to earth on Friday as they were trounced by 41 points in a shutout road loss to the Anson Bearcats (2-2).

Bulldogs quarterback Dre Davis was limited to just three completed passes and 41 yards as Anson’s defense shut down all phases of Albemarle’s offensive attack. Normally effective in the running game, Bulldogs Vincent Gregory and Kaine McLendon were held to a combined 27 yards from their 12 rushing attempts.

Albemarle will now host the Southwestern Randolph Cougars (2-1) as the Bulldogs hope to bounce back from a tough loss.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Kaleb

The Rowdy Rebel Bulls blew out South Davidson 66-0 on Friday, and Richardson made the most of the few passes he threw in the game. He went to the air 10 times, completing eight, and finished with 283 yards and four touchdowns. Richardson also added a rushing touchdown. Richardson currently leads the Yadkin Valley conference in pass yards and ranks fourth in the state in division 1A.

Buescher plays playoff spoiler at Watkins Glen in chaotic Cup race

The top five finishers were all nonplayoff drivers

By Dan Gelston The Associated Press

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. —

Chris Buescher won Sunday at Watkins Glen International, leading a string of five nonplayoff drivers to the finish in a NASCAR Cup race marred by late wrecks, shredded tires, and busted parts among the championship contenders.

The chaos on the 2.45-mile road course at The Glen — in the playoffs for the first time before it returns to an August date next year — shook up the playoff standings heading into the cutoff race.

Buescher held off Shane van Gisbergen in the thrilling

two final overtime laps to play spoiler and win for the first time this season for RFK Racing. The 31-year-old Texan has six career victories. Chase Briscoe, who entered 16th in the playoff standings and 21 points behind the cutline, was sixth and the highest-finishing playoff driver in the field in the second race in the Cup Series’ postseason. Four drivers will be cut from the field Saturday night at Bristol Motor Speedway. Briscoe shot to 11th in the standings, six points above the cutline. Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Martin Truex Jr., and Harrison Burton are the bottom four drivers.

Austin Cindric was 10th, only the second playoff driver in the top 10. Want to find the contenders? Look all the

way to the bottom of the race

results. Ten playoff drivers were dumped in the bottom 21 finishers.

The race was bedlam for the contenders from the start when a wreck on the opening lap knocked out Ryan Blaney and also involved fellow playoff drivers and Joe Gibbs Racing teammates Hamlin and Christopher Bell.

At least 11 playoff drivers ran into some sort of issue, including a rough scene late in the race where Keselowski and William Byron crashed battling for position. Byron’s Chevrolet landed on top of Keselowski’s Ford with six laps left in the scheduled 90-lap race.

There was no way this thriller was going to end in regulation.

One by one, playoff drivers

took a beating on the track — and in the standings.

Joey Logano raced his way into the second round of the playoffs by winning the opener last week at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He finished 15th There was no automatic qualifier at The Glen into the second round.

Blaney crashes early

Blaney, the 2023 Cup champion, had his race ended on the opening lap after he was collected in a wreck that also involved playoff drivers Hamlin and Bell.

Blaney entered 45 points above the cutline.

NASCAR rules dictated the No. 12 Ford must be towed to the garage, while Blaney argued his team should have

“I don’t know what is going on or why they won’t give us a shot to work on it but I don’t agree with.”

Ryan Blaney, after NASCAR wouldn’t allow his team to work on the car on pit road

been allowed to try and repair the car on pit road, giving him a shot at staying in the race.

“They didn’t give us a chance to fix it,” Blaney said. “How are they going to dictate if we are done or not? They have no idea of the damage. They said we were done because I couldn’t drive it back to the pit box, but if you have four flats, you get towed back to the pit box. You can’t drive that back. I don’t know what is going on or why they won’t give us a shot to work on it but I don’t agree with (it).” NASCAR rules say cars can remain in the race for mechanical issues but not damage.

South Stanly, football

LAUREN PETRACCA / AP PHOTO

Reaction to Tagovailoa’s concussion shows NFL has come a long way

Head injuries are treated far more seriously than in past generations

By Rob Maaddi

The Associated Press

THE REACTION to Tua Tagovailoa’s latest concussion shows how the league, its current and former players, fans and the media have evolved.

Tagovailoa sustained his fourth diagnosed concussion in five years in Miami’s 31-10 loss to Buffalo on Thursday.

Immediately, the concern centered on Tagovailoa’s longterm health. Nobody was wondering when he will play again. Rather, most folks watching were debating whether Tagovailoa should ever lace up his cleats and step on the field again.

Ultimately, Tagovailoa will make that decision. He will see a neurologist this week. Tagovailoa is focused on getting better and gathering information and isn’t thinking about retiring.

“If I’m him, at this point, I’m seriously considering retiring from football,” Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez said on Amazon Prime Video’s broadcast. “If that was my son, I would be like, ‘It might be time.’ This stuff is not what you want to play around with.”

More education about brain injuries has led to strict guidelines that help protect players, sometimes from themselves.

The league and the NFL Players Associations instituted concussion protocols in 2011 when Colt McCoy took a helmet-to-helmet hit in a game

and returned without being tested for a concussion.

The protocols have been expanded a few times since. There are independent certified athletic trainers, or ATC spotters, watching in a booth and monitoring players on the field to have someone removed from the game if they see an impact to the head. All players who undergo any concussion evaluation on game day must have a follow-up evaluation conducted the next day by a member of the medical staff. Players have to pass various testing to get cleared to play again.

In 2013, the league agreed to pay more than three-quarters of a billion dollars to settle lawsuits from thousands of former players who developed dementia or other concussion-related health problems they say were caused by on-field violence. The final agreement was uncapped and so far it has cost the NFL $1.3 billion.

It’s too early to determine if or when Tagovailoa will play again. But everyone agrees his health is the main priority.

“The reality is we have more information (now) about the long-term potential effects of having concussions during

Florida State asks judge to rule on parts of suit against ACC

The school is hoping for a resolution of the dispute without a trial

The Associated Press

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida State has asked a judge to decide key parts of its lawsuit against the Atlantic Coast Conference without a trial, hoping for a quicker resolution and path to a possible exit from the league.

Florida State requested a partial summary judgment from Circuit Judge John Cooper in a 574-page document filed earlier this week in Leon County, the Tallahassee-based school’s home court.

Florida State sued the ACC in December, challenging the validity of a contract that binds member schools to the conference and each other through media rights and claiming the league’s exit fees and penalties for withdrawal

are exorbitant and unfair. In its original compliant, Florida State said it would cost the school more than half a billion dollars to break the grant of rights and leave the ACC.

“The recently-produced 2016 ESPN agreements expose that the ACC has no rights to FSU home games played after it leaves the conference,” Florida State said in the filing.

Florida State is asking a judge to rule on the exit fees and for a summary judgment on its breach of contract claim, which says the conference broke its bylaws when it sued the school without first getting a majority vote from the entire league membership.

The case is one of four active right now involving the ACC and one of its members.

The ACC has sued Florida State in North Carolina, claiming the school is breaching a contract that it has signed twice in the last decade simply by challenging it.

The judge in Florida has already denied the ACC’s motion to dismiss or pause that case because the conference filed first in North Carolina. The conference appealed the Florida decision in a hearing earlier this week.

Clemson is also suing the ACC in South Carolina, trying to find an affordable potential exit, and the conference has countersued that school in North Carolina, too.

Florida State and the ACC completed court-mandated mediation last month without resolution.

The dispute is tied to the ACC’s long-term deal with ESPN, which runs through 2036 and leaves those schools lagging well behind competitors in the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten when it comes to conference-payout revenue.

football,” former Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears said.

“I’m not going to lie. We played kinda blindly. We thought a concussion was in five, six days when you passed protocol, you stopped having headaches and you’re not light-sensitive, you’re back on the field.

“I can imagine these conversations now are being turned into making sure long term that Tua is making a decision based on now but more importantly for his family and his two children. ... With the ability to have more information about the impact long term, it makes this discussion have more detail and

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel talks to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) as he leaves last Thursday’s game after suffering a concussion during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in Miami Gardens, Florida.

more nuance than just saying: ‘Bounce back, Tua. We’ll see you when get back on the field.’” Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in the offseason, won’t be pressured to play. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel made it clear the team won’t put any pressure on Tagovailoa.

“I know the facts are that it’s important that he gets healthy day by day and in that, the actual, the best thing I can do is not try to assess what this even means from a football standpoint,” McDaniel said. “I have to put his health as the primary.”

Florida State has said the athletic department is in danger of falling behind by as much as $40 million annually by being in the ACC. “Postponing the resolution of this question only compounds the expense and travesty,” the school said in the latest filing.

The ACC has implemented a bonus system called a success initiative that will reward schools for accomplishments on the field and court, but Florida State and Clemson are looking for more as two of the conference’s highest-profile brands and most successful football programs.

The ACC evenly distributes revenue from its broadcast deal, though new members California, Stanford and SMU have reduced shares and no distribution. That money is used to fund the pool for the success initiative.

REBECCA BLACKWELL / AP PHOTO

COLIN HACKLEY / AP PHOTO

Florida State coach Mike Norvell, left, is surrounded by his team in the final seconds of the Seminoles’ loss to Boston College on Sept. 2.

Miami

Barbara Jean (Taylor) Drye

Charlie Clinton Talbert

April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023

Dwight Farmer

January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023

Oct. 12, 1937 – Sept. 14, 2024

Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at her home.

Barbara was born April 17, 1936 in North Carolina to the late Robert Lee Taylor and the late Eva Belle Watts Taylor. She was also preceded in death by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor.

Survivors include children, Debbie (Mike) Williams of Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Curry of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Samantha (Destiny) Smith of Oakboro, Bradley Smith of Oakboro, Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterin-law, Beatrice Goodman; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved cats, Bo and Garfield. Barbara was a member of Oakboro Baptist Church for over 60 years. She worked over 30 years at Stanly Knitting Mills. After just two years of retirement, she began managing the Oakboro Senior Center and did that for 18 years until this past week. Barbara was known for her good cooking and always taking care of others. She also loved going on day long shopping trips - she could out walk and out shop people half her age. She kept her mind and body active through gardening, word searches, and various other hobbies.

Charlie Clinton Talbert, 86, of Albemarle passed away on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Pastor Stoney Benfield and Pastor Dale Collingwood. Burial will follow in the Prospect Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle prior to the service from 1-2 p.m.

Ruth Gordan Taylor Hathcock

Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, of Norwood died Sunday morning, January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes.

James Roseboro

Sally Teeter

June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023

March 13, 1945 –Sept. 9, 2024

Dwight was born January 24, 1939 in Stanly County to the late Walter Virgil and Martha Adkins Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate of Norwood High School and was a United States Army Veteran.

Mr. Talbert was born October 12, 1937, in Stanly County to the late Charlie and Vernie Talbert. Clinton is lovingly survived by his wife, Patricia Talbert. Those also left to cherish his memory are a son, Tony Talbert of Albemarle, stepchildren, Kathy Collingwood (Dale) and Michael Cooke (Eva), six grandchildren, eight greatgrandchildren and a special family member Jan Burris, as well as many friends.

John B. Kluttz

Nov. 10, 1952 – Sept. 10, 2024

James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Anson Health and Rehab.

Ruth Gordon Taylor Hathcock of Oakboro, age 79, met her Savior face to face on September 9, 2024.

He was a member of Cedar Grove United Methodist Church where he had served as church treasurer and choir member. He began his career with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Department moving to the Norwood Police Department and retiring as Chief of Police with the Town of Norwood after many years of service.

Ruth was born on March 3, 1945, in Union County, NC to Dewie Gordon and Beatrice Helms Gordon. She graduated from Garinger High School in 1963. She spent her life working in different industries until she began working for Lomax Tile & Marble in 1985. She was the office manager there until she retired in 2010.

Dwight was an avid gardener, bird watcher and Carolina fan.

He is survived by his wife Hilda Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Lowe (David) of Norwood; one sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Lowe.

Mr. Talbert is predeceased by a son, Gary Talbert, a sister Evelyn Eagle and his first wife, Phyllis Efird Talbert.

He was preceded in death by his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty.

Mr. Talbert loved his family, especially his grandchildren. Clinton was very proud of being a US Army veteran. He loved his church, Duke basketball and the Pittsburg Steelers. Clinton enjoyed working in woodcraft when his health permitted.

Memorials may be made to Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs Road, Norwood, NC 28128.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Tillery Compassionate Care (960 N 1st St, Albemarle, NC 28001).

Stanly Funeral and Cremation of Albemarle is serving the Talbert family.

March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023

Sally Jenkins Teeter, 71, of Albemarle passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Atrium Health Cabarrus. A graveside service is scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday, September 13, 2024, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and will be officiated by Pastor Bob Gruver and Pastor Shad Hicks. There will be no formal visitation.

Mr. Roseboro was born on June 23, 1967 to the late Robert and Delena Shipp Roseboro. He graduated from South Stanly High School and was employed by Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching football and basketball, especially the Carolina TarHeels and Miami.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Barbara Lee Roseboro, Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, Henrietta Ingram, and Harold Roseboro.

He is survived by his sisters: Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards of Albemarle, Mary Roseboro of Washington DC, and Marion Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of Norwood, and Van Horne; a special friend of over 40 years, Michelle McLendon of the home; special nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knya Little, and Laquanza Crump; special nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and God daughter, Daphne Johnson; and special friends, Vetrella Johnson and Ben McLendon.

Our sweet Mom/Ruthie loved Jesus, the beach, buttercups, music and dancing, her family, her dog, Daisy and especially her grandchildren. She was a loving, generous person who never hesitated to give anything that was needed. She is survived by her husband Eddie Hathcock of the home, sons Robby Taylor of Charlotte, Jeff Taylor of Midland, daughter Angie Taylor McGee (Doug) of Midland, stepson Jason Hathcock (Kiersten) of Concord and stepdaughter Julie Barbee (Greg) of Midland, brothers Bill Gordon of Charlotte, Doug Gordon (Robyn) of Waxhaw, Rick Gordon (Becky) of Earl, NC, sister Susan Lovelace (Roy) of Earl, NC, grandchildren Kenlie and Lacie McGee, Sam, Elaina, Sophie and Will Taylor, Lillie and Sam Barbee, Andrew and Emma Hathcock, greatgranddaughter Avery James Taylor and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her special lifelong friend, Mary Baker of Mint Hill. She is predeceased by her parents, her sister, Dixie Hoffman, brothers David Gordon and Freddie Melton and sister-inlaw Jody Gordon. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Central Church, 5301 Sardis Rd. Charlotte, NC 28270 with a visitation immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Hospice House of Monroe, NC.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and

Christy Lynn Sutton

John grew up in the Millingport community where he drove a school bus and worked at the local gas station during his High School years. He graduated from Millingport High in 1954 and entered into service with the US Airforce immediately afterward. Upon return from the service, he and his high school sweetheart Julie were married in 1956. He graduated from Nashville Auto Diesel College later in 1959 and began his career as a diesel mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Company, moving his growing family to Charlotte where they lived until their retirement.

Mrs. Teeter was born November 10, 1952, in Davidson County to the late Sam and Sarah Jenkins. She is lovingly survived by her husband of 35 years, Phillip Teeter. Those also left to cherish her memory are a son, Jay Shue and his wife Jennifer of Oakboro, grandchildren, Kade Shue and Halie Childress, brother, David Leonard and sisters, Sarah Hottle and her husband Mike and Gayle Jenkins.

Mrs. Teeter is predeceased by a son, Andy Childress.

Sally loved to go antique and furniture shopping. She also loved to paint and refurbish furniture. Sally never missed an opportunity to eat at Lexington Bar-b-que. She loved spending time at the lake with her family and especially, pontoon rides. If she were not eating, you would always find her with her favorite candy, a cherry Blow-pop.

March 30, 1962 –Sept. 12, 2024

October 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023

Christy Lynn Sutton, age 62 of Concord passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Atrium Health Cabarrus. Arrangements are incomplete at this time. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Sutton family.

When John purchased his first Model A Ford at the age of 17, he said that he took the car to the community mechanic when he had a small problem.The mechanic told him that if he was going to keep the car, he needed to learn to work on it. This is when John’s passion for Model A Fords began and how he spent his happiest days with his best friends from around the globe for the rest of his life!

Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Teeter family.

At age 50, after years as a Detroit Diesel Mechanic he and Julie decided to take the plunge and open a full Model A Restoration Shop. They thrived at their shop in Cornelius, NC until their retirement in 1998 when they moved back to Cabarrus County. John once again set up shop in his back yard garage where he attracted a loyal group of friends who visited almost daily. While on the farm in Gold Hill, John also began a lifelong love with Alis Chalmers tractors after he restored his Dad’s tractor and began amassing his collection of tractors as well.

Darrick Baldwin

January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023

Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.

He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.

He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.

He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree. We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

John restored many cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Awardthe highest award given to members at the national level.

This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men. John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) of Asheville, NC and Seth William McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Meredith, Grant, Victoria and Ronan. John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.

Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, went home into God’s presence on January 10 after a sudden illness and a valiant week-long fight in ICU. Doris was born on October 11, 1944, in the mountains of Marion, NC while her father was away fighting in the US Navy during World War II. Raymond Jones was so proud to return after the war and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in Durham, NC and graduated from Durham High School. She furthered her studies at Watts Hospital School of Nursing in Durham and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1966.

Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters Amy and Laura. Doris raised Amy and Laura in North Augusta, SC.

Doris was an incredible neonatal intensive care nurse for most of her career, and this was her passion. The Augusta Chronicle did a feature on her in 1985. She was a clinical nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia at University Hospital NICU and worked there for 20 years. During this time, Doris mentored young nurses and assisted in saving the lives of so many babies. She also worked for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 years of nursing.

Doris was a gentle and sweet spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left you feeling uplifted after talking with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle. She especially loved helping at church with older adults, youth, and children.

She was especially talented at sewing from a young age and made gifts for friends, Christmas ornaments, Halloween Costumes, doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, outfits for Amy and Laura, and Christening gowns for each of her grandchildren.

Doris was preceded in death by her father Arthur Raymond Jones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Jones, and her sister Maryanne Jones Brantley. Survivors include her two precious daughters: Amy Cameron Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.

Doris Jones Coleman

STATE & NATION

Tech billionaire returns to Earth after first private spacewalk

Jared Isaacman took a five-day trip with SpaceX

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a

spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West.

To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour. Isaacman emerged

only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes. Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star. He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed socalled Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

American activist killed by Israeli fire buried in Turkey

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was shot by a soldier Sept. 6

By Andrew Wilks and Wafaa Shurafa

The Associated Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — A Turkish-American activist who was killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank was laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown in Turkey with thousands lining the streets and anti-Israeli feelings in the country rising from a conflict that threatens to spread across the region.

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-yearold woman from Seattle, was shot dead Sept. 6 by an Israeli soldier during a demonstration against Israeli West Bank settlements, according to an Israeli protester who witnessed the shooting.

Thousands of people lined the streets in the Turkish coastal town of Didim on the Aegean Sea as Eygi was buried in a coffin draped in a Turkish flag, which was taken from her family home.

A portrait of her wearing her graduation gown was propped against the coffin as people paid their respects.

Her body was earlier brought from a hospital to her family home and Didim’s Central Mosque.

Turkey condemned the killing and announced it will conduct an investigation into her death. “We are not going to leave our daughter’s blood on the ground and we demand responsibility and accountability for this murder,” Numan Kurtulmus, the

speaker of Turkey’s parliament, told mourners at the funeral.

On Friday, an autopsy was carried out at Izmir Forensic Medicine Institute. Kurtulmus said the examination showed Eygi was hit by a round that struck her in the back of the head below her left ear.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that Eygi was likely shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli forces.

Her death was condemned by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the United States, Egypt and Qatar push for a cease-fire in the 11-month-long Israel-Hamas war and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks have repeatedly bogged down as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of

making new and unacceptable demands.

The war began when Hamasled fighters killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in an Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. They abducted another 250 people and are still holding around 100 hostages after releasing most of the rest in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November. Around a third of the remaining hostages are believed to be dead.

Israelis are growing increasingly frustrated with the government for not reaching a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis streamed into the streets in Tel Aviv demanding Prime

Mehmet, left, the father of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old TurkishAmerican activist killed by the Israeli military, attends prayers during his daughter’s funeral outside the central mosque of Didim, Turkey, on Saturday.

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bring the hostages back.

At one of the rallies, Anat Angrest, mother of kidnapped soldier Matan Angrest, shared a voice recording from her son while in captivity asking Netanyahu to make a deal. “I want to see my family and friends,” said Matan in the message. Angrest then addressed the head of Israel’s Mossad spy agency.

“Where are you, negotiation team? There is no deal for over eight months, so what are you doing?”

Anger has spiked since the bodies of six hostages were found in a tunnel beneath the southern Gaza city of Rafah earlier this month. The military said the six were killed shortly before Israeli forces were to rescue them.

Many blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, which opinion polls show a majority of Israelis favor. However, the country is also extremely divided and Netanyahu has significant support for his strategy of “total victory” against Hamas, even if a deal for the hostages has to wait. Meanwhile, a campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio drew down and the World Health Organization said about 559,000 under the age of 10 have recovered from their first dose, seven out of every eight children the campaign aimed to vaccinate. The second doses are expected to begin later this month as part of an effort to which the WHO said parties had already agreed.

“As we prepare for the next round in four weeks, we’re hopeful these pauses will hold, because this campaign has clearly shown the world what’s possible when peace is given a chance,” Richard Peeperkorn, WHO’s representative in Gaza and the West Bank, said in a statement on Saturday.

The war has caused vast destruction and displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, often multiple times, and plunged the territory into a severe humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its count but says women and children make up just over half of the dead. Israel says it has killed more than 17,000 militants in the war.

SPACEX VIA AP

This image made from a SpaceX video shows the start of the first private spacewalk led by tech billionaire Jared Isaacman last Thursday.

KHALIL HAMRA / AP PHOTO

Under arrest

Ryan Wesley Routh, a Greensboro native, was arrested Sunday by law enforcement officers in Martin County, Florida, and is suspected in an apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump. Routh, who has several felony convictions in North Carolina, was held on federal gun charges after an initial court appearance on Monday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Customer kills

18-year-old at N.C. Waffle House

A Waffle House customer fatally shot an 18-year-old worker in Laurinburg police say. Officers responding to a report of shots fired at the restaurant early Friday found Burlie Dawson Locklear, of Red Springs, a 2024 graduate of Hoke High School, suffering from a gunshot wound. He later died at a hospital. Police say the customer ordered food, became verbally abusive to staffers and fired two shots toward the restaurant as he walked back to his vehicle with his order. News outlets report police were looking for the shooter and have obtained a warrant. The restaurant chain said in a statement that Locklear was a victim of an outrageous act of violence.

Court overturns Granville sheriff fraud conviction

A state appeals court has overturned a former county sheriff’s fraud and obstruction convictions from late 2022. A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ex-Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins on Tuesday. Wilkins served as sheriff for 10 years and has been serving time in state prison. The intermediate-level appeals court said that allegations related to Wilkins falsifying his firearms training requirements didn’t meet the necessary elements for the obstruction and fraud charges. The ruling comes seven months after a subordinate to Wilkins had his obstruction convictions related to the training overturned. The exsheriff pleaded to unrelated crimes last fall.

32 schools designated as low-performing in latest state accountability report

Of the district’s 78 schools which received grades, 50% scored a “C or better while 50% scored a “D” or “F”

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald

WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education was presented with some of the data from the state’s school accountability report, in which schools are rated based on school performance and growth, at its Sept. 10 regular business meeting.

According to the North Carolina Department of Instruction, the grades are 80% based on each school’s achievement

score and 20% based on each school’s academic growth and that data is then converted to a 100-point scale with each letter grade separated by 15 points.

The achievement scores are calculated primarily from reading, math and science EOGs for elementary and middle schools and Math I/III, English II, Biology, the ACT and graduation rates for high schools.

In total, WSFCS had four A-rated schools, 15 B-rated schools, 20 C-rated schools, 21 D-rated schools and 18 F-rated schools meaning that the district had 50% of schools score at least 55 points but still 50% of them score below that mark.

In terms of academic growth, which the standard for is “roughly equivalent

to a year’s worth of expected growth for a year of instruction,” 16 schools exceeded that benchmark, 30 met it but 26 did not meet the expected growth standard.

In addition, of the 39 schools that received either a D or F grade, 32 were designated as low-performing meaning they did not exceed growth either.

Per state statute, all schools designated as low-performing “must develop a plan for improvement that specifically addresses the strategies the school will implement to improve both its school performance grade and academic growth designation.”

These improvement plans must be approved by the local board of education and will then be shared with the public once approved.

“A single letter grade does not epitomize or describe any given school,” said Chief Accountability Officer Andrew Kraft.

Kraft also took time to discuss some metrics that weren’t captured in the accountability reports such as district-wide improvements in third grade reading level, fifth grade reading and science EOG scores, fourth through sixth math EOG scores, eighth grade math EOC scores and graduation rates.

“Across the district, we have good examples of what to do, what works in our buildings and so we can replicate that in other schools as well,” Kraft said.

In addition, the board ap -

See SCHOOLS, page A2

Harris touts GOP endorsements in NC visit

The VP made campaign stops in Charlotte and Greensboro

The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE — Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump launched campaign blitzes last Thursday with dramatically different approaches to attracting swing-state voters who will decide the presidential contest.

Here in North Carolina, Democratic nominee Harris used rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro to tout endorsements from Republicans who have crossed the aisle to back her. She also promised to protect access to health care and

abortion, while delighting her partisan crowds with celebrations of her debate performance last week, taking digs at Trump and cheerleading for her campaign and the country.

“We’re having a good time, aren’t we?” Harris declared, smiling as her boisterous crowd chanted: “USA! USA! USA!”

“I was angry at the debate,” Trump said at a rally in Arizona, mocking commentators’ description of his performance at the debate last week.

“And, yes, I am angry,” he said, because “everything is terrible” since Harris and President Joe Biden are “destroying our country.” As he repeated the word “angry,” Trump’s crowd in Tucson answered with its own “USA! USA! USA!” chants.

Former President Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Wilmington on Saturday.

Trump’s vice presidential candidate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, made a stop in Raleigh on Wednesday, and former President Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Wilmington this Saturday. Trump visited both Asheville and Asheboro in separate appearances last month.

The competing visions and narratives underscored the starkly different choices faced by voters in the battleground

states that will decide the outcome. Harris is casting a wide net, depending on Democrats’ diverse coalition and hoping to add moderate and even conservative Republicans repelled by the former president. Trump, while seeking a broad working-class coalition with his tax ideas, is digging in on arguments about the country — and his political opponents — that

See HARRIS, page A2

$2.00

MARTIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

THURSDAY SEPT 19

Delayed absentee ballots to start mailing

The sending was delayed by litigation over RFK Jr.’s presence on the ballot

By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

RALEIGH — North Carolina’s first absentee ballots for the November election will now be distributed starting Friday, the State Board of Elections announced last week, days after appeals court judges prevented original ballots containing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name from being sent. North Carolina had been poised to be the first in the nation to send out ballots to voters for the fall elections. State law directed the first absentee ballots be mailed or transmitted to those already asking no later than 60 days before Election Day, or Sept. 6 this year. But on that day the state Court of Appeals granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that included his name for president. Kennedy had sued the board in late August to remove his name as the We The People party candidate the week after he suspended his campaign and endorsed Republican nominee Donald Trump. The state Supreme Court, in a 4-3 decision last Monday, left the lower-court decision in place. These rulings forced county election officials to reassemble absentee ballot packets, reprint ballots and recode tabulation machines. Counties had print-

are aimed most squarely at his most strident supporters.

The post-debate blitz reflected the narrow path to 270 Electoral College votes for both candidates, with the campaign already having become concentrated on seven swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Harris’ itinerary put her in a state Trump won twice, but his margin of 1.3 percentage points in 2020 was his closest statewide victory. Arizona, meanwhile, was one of Trump’s narrowest losses four years ago. He won the state in 2016.

In North Carolina, Harris took her own post-debate victory lap, and her campaign already has cut key moments of the debate into ads. But Harris warned against overconfidence, calling herself an underdog and making plain the stakes.

“This is not 2016 or 2020,” she said in Charlotte. “Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails.”

She touted endorsements from Republican former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney, both of whom have deemed Trump a fundamental threat to American values and democracy.

“Democrats, Republicans and independents are supporting our campaign,” Harris said in Charlotte, praising the Cheneys and like-minded Republicans as citizens who

ed more than 2.9 million absentee and in-person ballots before last Friday’s court order, according to the state board. Alabama became the first state to mail ballots, last week.

The NC elections board on Friday revealed a two-tiered release of absentee ballots, which have been requested by over 166,000 voters so far.

First, ballots requested by more than 13,600 military and overseas voters would be sent Sept. 20, which would ensure that the state complies with a federal law requiring ballots be transmitted to these categories of voters by Sept. 21.

Absentee ballots to the other conventional requesters by mail would then follow start-

ing on Sept. 24. The board said in a news release it would give counties more time to ensure their vendors could print enough amended ballots in time and to ensure voter packers are prepared for mailing. Counties must bear the ballot reprinting costs. A board news release said the expense to counties could vary widely, from a few thousand dollars in some smaller counties to $55,100 in Durham County and $300,000 in Wake County, the state’s largest by population. Wake elections board member Gerry Cohen said on social media Friday that his county’s amount included a 20% surcharge from its ballot printer for delays.

recognize a need to “put country above party and defend our Constitution.”

Yet she also made a full-throated defense of the Affordable Care Act, the 2010 law commonly called “Obamacare” and passed over near-unanimous Republican opposition. She mocked Trump, who has spent years promising to scrap the ACA but said at their debate that he still has no specific replacement in mind.

“He said, ‘concepts of a plan,’” Harris said. “Concepts. Concepts. No actual plan. Concepts. ... Forty-five million Americans are insured through the Affordable Care Act. And he’s going to end it based on a concept.”

She saddled Trump again with the Supreme Court’s decision to end a woman’s federal right to abortion, paving the way for Republican-led states to severely restrict and in some cases effectively ban the procedure.

“Women are being refused care during miscarriages. Some are only being treated when they develop sepsis,” Harris said of states with the harshest restrictions.

The vice president added her usual broadsides against Project 2025, a 900-page policy agenda written by conservatives for a second Trump administration. Trump has distanced himself from the document, though

Early in-person voting starts statewide Oct. 17. The deadline to request absentee ballots is Oct. 29. A law taking effect this year says mail-in absentee ballots for most voters must be turned in to election officials sooner — by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

Since suspending his campaign, Kennedy has attempted to take his name off ballots in key battleground states like North Carolina where the race between Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris are close.

Kennedy sued the North Carolina board the day after its Democratic majority determined it was too late in the ballot printing process for his name to be removed. A trial judge denied a temporary restraining order sought by Kennedy, but a three-judge Court of Appeals panel granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that included his name. In the prevailing opinion backed by four Republican justices, the state Supreme Court said it would be wrong for Kennedy, who submitted a candidacy resignation letter, to remain on the ballot because it could disenfranchise “countless” voters who would otherwise believe he was still a candidate. Dissenting justices wrote in part that the board was justified by state law in retaining Kennedy’s name because it was impractical to make ballot changes so close to the Sept. 6 distribution deadline.

there is a notable overlap between it and his policies — and, for that matter, some of the policy aims of Republicans like the Cheneys.

Harris’ approach in Charlotte and Greensboro tracked perhaps her widest path to victory: exciting and organizing the diverse Democratic base, especially younger generations, nonwhite voters and women, while convincing moderate Republicans who dislike Trump that they should be comfortable with her in the Oval Office, some policy disagreements notwithstanding. That’s the same formula Biden used in defeating Trump four years ago, flipping traditionally GOP-leaning states like Arizona and Georgia and narrowing the gap in North Carolina.

Trump, meanwhile, appears to bet that his path back to the White House depends mostly on his core supporters, plus enough new support from working- and middle-class voters drawn to his promises of tax breaks.

A raucous crowd cheered his new promise to end taxes on overtime wages. The Harris campaign quickly labeled the proposal a “snake oil sales pitch,” noting the Trump administration abandoned Obama administration plans to vastly expand the number of workers eligible for overtime pay in favor of a less generous expansion.

“We are going to bring back the American dream bigger, better and stronger than ever before,” Trump said, beaming.

$16,000 stipends for family leadership facilitators and $500 household stipends for parents who complete the eight-month program. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education will next meet Sept. 24.

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Left to right: Carol Hamilton, Cristo Carter and Cynthia Huntley prepare ballots at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections in Charlotte on Sept. 5.

JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally at Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte last Thursday.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Random thoughts

This can’t be the America I grew up in. It just can’t be.

A NEW DOWNTOWN high-rise housing project has opened in Los Angeles. It’s supposed to be affordable housing built for the homeless population. Each unit costs $600,000 to build and is funded by taxpayers. The building features one floor with offices for caseworkers. It also contains a gym, art room, music room, computer room and library. It sounds like a failure already because it’s certainly not affordable housing. What do you suppose it will look like in a short time?

The FBI, Secret Service, U.S. Marshals, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and several other federal agencies have come under criticism after the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump. It has been revealed that these agencies have prioritized diversity, equity and inclusion over qualifications. This can get people killed. Not acceptable at all. Our government is making a big push to promote lab-grown meat. You know those pesky cows fart, and it messes up the climate. Since we didn’t flock to eat the insect-based proteins pushed our way, the new push is to introduce them into people’s diets without them even knowing. It’s called “Acheta Protein,” and it’s actually cricket powder. It’s becoming increasingly present in ordinary foods.

The Woke Disney company is being sued by America First legal group. They are accused of having DEI policies that discriminate against white males, Christians and Jews. Surely Disney wouldn’t do that, would they?

Colorado parents are suing the school system outside of Denver with the help of the Center for American Liberty. The parents claim the

“THE CROWN has made it clear. The climate must be perfect all the year.” – Oscar Hammerstein

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing.

Like the fictional Camelot, home of King Arthur and his mighty knights, Kamala Harris’s Democratic presidential campaign has a gauzy, fairy tale aura about it.

After Harris’ nearly four years of service under the Biden administration, a magic wand has created a new set of clothes. Harris has repeatedly stated that her values have not changed, there is no daylight between President Joe Biden’s policies and her own. A champion of the Green New Deal, Harris believes this policy is the way forward.

The Green New Deal, a reference to President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, was first discussed by Thomas Friedman in 2007, suggesting a departure from “dirty coal and oil energy” into renewables. U.S. House Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) proposed a resolution to create a Green New Deal in 2019. It failed an initial procedural vote. Even the late Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about this idea. Consider how the Green New Deal would be realized in our communities.

First on the list of 10 tenets is “guaranteeing a job with a family-sustaining wage … family and medical leave, vacations and retirement security to all people of the United States.” Fantastic. Unfortunately, under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing due to the influx of undocumented immigrants flooding the labor force. They are willing to work for anything, they are paid in cash and they avoid taxes. This displaces

school and a state therapist encouraged their daughter to use male pronouns and offered her transgender-related telemedicine for months without the knowledge or consent of the parents.

Vice President Kamala Harris is blaming high grocery prices on greedy grocers. She claims she will bring prices down by mandating price freezes and stopping these retailers from “price gouging.” She has no clue how the real world works. Groceries have one of the lowest profit margins of any commodity. It’s not just grocery prices rising, it’s all prices, and it’s caused by the failed Biden administration policies, mainly massive spending.

The Supreme Court has again ruled against the Biden-Harris administration’s attempt to erase student loan debt. The administration keeps trying to find new ways to get around the rule of law. So far, nothing has worked. It’s clearly illegal, and they don’t seem to care. They want to get it done by hook or by crook.

The Biden administration has been touting their job numbers. The problem is, they lied. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recent report adjusted the number down by 818,000. How do you miscalculate to that extent? Manufacturing lost over 115,000 jobs in the year. That’s not good news for the administration.

California can come up with the craziest stuff. There is a proposal to provide state-funded home loans to illegal immigrants. The program provides 20% of the home’s purchase price as a loan. The loan does not require interest or monthly payments. While many Americans are struggling to fulfill the dream of owning their

own home, illegals can have an advantage like this. What a deal.

This California deal is even crazier. The Senate has passed a bill that will make illegal immigrants eligible for up to $150,000 in statesupported loans for down payments on houses. It’s called the “California Dream for All” program. I swear you just can’t make this stuff up. The Vermont Department of Health put out a notice informing parents they shouldn’t call their child “son” or “daughter” because it isn’t inclusive. They should use “child” or “kid” instead because it’s gender-neutral. One should say “family members” rather than “household members.”

Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, is a little weird, in my opinion. He signed a bill to require tampons in boys’ bathrooms. To me, that’s weird. He is also requiring teachers licensing laws to ban practicing Christians, Jews and Muslims from teaching in public schools. I wonder if he even considered banning practicing witchcraft? No mention of that in the report that I read.

A Venezuelan prison gang took over an apartment in Colorado. Venezuela emptied its prisons and sent the hoodlums to us through our open southern border. The gangs go into the apartment complexes and force out the property management and simply take over. This can’t be the America I grew up in. It just can’t be.

Sen. Joyce Krawiec has represented Forsyth County and the 31st District in the North Carolina Senate since 2014. She lives in Kernersville.

the entry-level job seeker who must report his earnings and pay taxes. Additionally, this person is denied the benefit of early, on-the-job experience.

McDonald’s cites many successful people, including Harris, as members of the 12.5% of Americans who got their start slinging burgers. Considering the tax-free status of the undocumented worker, one must acknowledge that his “retirement security” is funded by your Social Security contribution.

Second on the Green New Deal list is “high quality health care … affordable, safe and adequate housing … access to clean water, clean air ... healthy and affordable food.” Too good to be true?

The Biden-Harris Health and Human Services Department squandered Americans’ trust trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Each bad decision fostered by the Fauci fraternity — mask up, lock down — was countered by a stimulus check, obscuring the damage caused by those reckless measures. The receipts are in and generations will pay for the damage to our culture.

“Affordable, safe and adequate housing” is touted as the American Dream. Harris has suggested giving a $25,000 subsidy to certain first-time home buyers to get on board the Polar Express. The real American dream would provide housing and services to our veterans, our sick and disabled. On a single night in January 2023, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported more than 650,000 men, women and children on the street, homeless and hopeless. This is an American disgrace.

Third on the list of 10 principles of the Green New Deal is “providing resources, training and high-quality education … to all people of the United States.” This is fantasy.

We are experiencing a massive shortage of teachers, day care providers and staff employees. Public schools are captured by the Department of Education and hostage

to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. In a controlled burn, this trifecta has managed to achieve the following results: 50% of adults in this country cannot read above eighth grade level, 3 of 4 people on welfare cannot read at all and 50% of unemployed people aged 16-21 are functionally illiterate.

Bolstering these averages is the charter school concept, which bypasses the union control and foregoes some regulatory requirements. The success of the charter model has been rewarded by having their budget reduced by millions in the Biden-Harris 2025 proposal.

Teachers are at the mercy of burdensome regulations, low pay and students socially unprepared for the rigors of institutional learning. Working parents, challenged with financial obligations and inflationary expenses, cannot find or afford quality day care. Some have waited two years to enroll a child in a facility, allowing the parent to return to employment. The real new deal would prioritize our child development initiatives and education beginning at infancy. We must implement a culture where children are valued, educated, socialized and incentivized to take on the challenges of America’s future.

The remaining seven tenets of the Green New Deal aspire to sweep the Earth clean of pollutants, cleanse the cattle and power up the electrical grid. All very aspirational. The price to accomplish these magnificent seven is estimated at $8.1 trillion by the American Action Forum. Sustaining these goals is inestimable.

The script for the Harris-Walz campaign production for the presidency requires you to suspend reality and close the curtain on the disastrous Biden-Harris administration. The cost of the ticket to watch this play is unaffordable.

Connie Lovell lives in Southern Pines.

TRIAD STRAIGHT TALK | SEN. JOYCE KRAWEIC

COLUMN | CONNIE LOVELL

Kamalot

Hezbollah hit by a wave of exploding pagers, blames Israel; at least 9 dead, thousands injured

The Israeli military declined to comment

By Bassem Mroue

The Associated Press

BEIRUT — Pagers used by hundreds of members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded near simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday, killing at least nine people – including an 8-year-old girl -- and wounding several thousand, officials said. Hezbollah and the Lebanese government blamed Israel for what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack.

Among those wounded was Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon.

The mysterious explosions came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza.

The pagers that blew up had apparently been acquired by Hezbollah after the group’s leader ordered members in February to stop using cellphones, warning they could be tracked by Israeli intelligence. A Hezbollah official told The Associated Press the pagers were a new brand, but declined to say how long they had been in use.

At about 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as people shopped for groceries, sat in cafes or drove cars and mo -

torcycles in the afternoon traffic, the pagers in their hands or pockets started heating up and then exploding — leaving blood-splattered scenes and panicking bystanders.

It appeared that many of those hit were members of Hezbollah, but it was not immediately clear if others also carried the pagers.

The blasts were mainly in areas where the group has a strong presence, particularly a southern Beirut suburb and in the Beqaa region of eastern Lebanon, as well as in Damascus, according to Lebanese security of-

ficials and a Hezbollah official. The Hezbollah official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

The AP reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment. The explosions came hours after Israel’s internal security agency said it had foiled an attempt by Hezbollah to kill a former senior Israeli security official using a planted explosive device that could be remotely detonated.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the United States “was not aware

of this incident in advance” and was not involved. “At this point, we’re gathering information,” he said.

Experts said the pager explosions pointed to a long-planned operation, possibly carried out by infiltrating the supply chain and rigging the devices with explosives before they were delivered to Lebanon.

Whatever the means, it targeted an extraordinary breadth of people with hundreds of small explosions — all at once, wherever the pager carrier happened to be — that left some maimed.

One video circulating online showed a man picking through produce at a grocery store when the bag he was carrying at his hip explodes, sending him sprawling to the ground and bystanders running.

At overwhelmed hospitals, the wounded were rushed in on stretchers, some with missing hands, faces partly blown away or gaping holes at their hips and legs near the pocket area, according to AP photographers.

On a main road in central Beirut, a car door was splattered with blood and the windshield cracked.

Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said to Qatar’s Al Jazeera network at least nine people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl, and some 2,750 were wounded — 200 of them critically — by the explosions. Most had injuries in the face, hand, or around the abdomen.

4 found dead in eastern Romania rainstorms

Hundreds have been stranded in the eastern part of the country

By Stephen McGrath and Andreea Alexandru

The Associated Press

BUCHAREST, Romania —

Four people in eastern Romania have been found dead after torrential storms dumped unprecedented rain, leaving hundreds stranded in flooded areas, emergency authorities said Saturday.

Rescue services scrambled to save people in the hard-hit eastern counties of Galati and Vaslui. The bodies of three older women and one man were found in four localities, the Department for Emergency Situations said.

Emergency authorities released video footage showing teams of rescuers evacuating people using small lifeboats through muddy waters and car-

rying some older people to safety.

Some of the most significant flood damage was concentrated in Galati where 5,000 households were affected. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed there to help with the search and rescue efforts.

The storms battered 19 localities in eight counties in Romania, with strong winds downing dozens of trees that damaged cars and blocked roads and traffic. Authorities sent text message alerts to residents to warn them of adverse weather as emergency services rushed to remove floodwaters from homes.

By 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, more than 250 people had been evacuated with the help of 700 interior ministry personnel deployed to affected communities, authorities said.

“What we are trying to do right now is save as many lives as possible,” Romanian Environment Minister Mircea

Fechet, who was on his way to Galati to assess the situation, told The Associated Press.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis offered his condolences to the victims’ bereaved families, writing on Facebook: “We must continue to strengthen our capacity to anticipate extreme weather phenomena.”

“Severe floods that have affected a large part of the country have led to loss of lives and significant damage,” Iohannis said. “We are again dealing with the effects of climate change, which are increasingly present throughout the European continent, with dramatic consequences on people.”

The stormy weather impacted several central European nations. In Czechia, river waters reached dangerously high levels in dozens of areas, prompting the authorities to evacuate hundreds of people, including from a hospital in the second-largest city of Brno, to escape raging floods.

A 54-year-old man was missing, police said, after he fell in a flooded stream in the southeast of the country, while another three people were swept away in a car by a river in the northeast.

By Saturday evening, Czech authorities had declared the highest flood warnings in more than 70 areas across the country and said that thousands more people should be prepared to be evacuated as the rains continued to slam down. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute said such “extreme floods” in those regions only occur about once a century.

In neighboring Austria, authorities declared 24 villages in the northeast Lower Austria province “disaster zones” on Saturday afternoon and began evacuating residents from those areas.

Heavy rain also hit Moldova on Saturday, where emergency workers pumped floodwater

Hezbollah said in a statement that two of its members were among those killed. One of them was Mahdi Ammar, the son of a Hezbollah member in parliament, and two sons of other prominent figures were wounded, said the Hezbollah official who spoke anonymously.

“We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression that also targeted civilians,” Hezbollah said, adding that Israel will “for sure get its just punishment.”

Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.

Previously, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying they could be used by Israel to track their movements and carry out targeted strikes.

Sean Moorhouse, a former British Army officer and explosive ordnance disposal expert, said videos of the blasts suggested a small explosive charge – as small as a pencil eraser –had been placed into the devices. They would have had to have been rigged prior to delivery.

“It seems very likely that all of these encrypted pagers were modified prior to Hezbollah purchasing them, which implies a very successful Mossad operation.” he said, referring to Israel’s foreign intelligence agency.

from dozens of peoples’ homes in several localities, and 13 localities in three districts suffered partial electricity outages, authorities said.

In Poland, dozens of people were evacuated as a precautionary measure on Saturday from two villages near the town of Nysa, in the Nysa River basin, after meteorologists warned of unprecedented rainfall. Some farms were flooded. Water levels continued to rise Saturday, and some roads and streets in the cities of Krakow and Katowice were flooded, and water penetrated the basement of a hospital in Krakow, though firefighters quickly pumped it out. Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that “the worst is yet to come.” Polish authorities appealed to residents on Friday to stock up on food and to prepare for power outages by charging power banks.

The weather change arrived following a hot start to September in the region, including in Romania. Scientists have documented Earth’s hottest summer, breaking a record set just a year ago.

HUSSEIN MALLA / AP PHOTO

Civil Defense first-responders carry a wounded man whose handheld pager exploded at al-Zahraa hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

Forsyth SPORTS

Florida State asks judge to rule on parts of suit against ACC

The school is hoping for a resolution of the dispute without a trial

The Associated Press

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida State has asked a judge to decide key parts of its lawsuit against the Atlantic Coast Conference without a trial, hoping for a quicker resolution and path to a possible exit from the league.

Florida State requested a partial summary judgment from Circuit Judge John Cooper in a 574-page document filed earlier this week in Leon County, the Tallahassee-based school’s home court.

Florida State sued the ACC in December, challenging the validity of a contract that binds member schools to the conference and each other through media rights and claiming the league’s exit fees and penalties for withdrawal are exorbitant and unfair.

In its original compliant, Florida State said it would cost the school more than half a billion dollars to break the grant of rights and leave the ACC.

“The recently-produced 2016 ESPN agreements expose that the ACC has no rights to FSU home games played after it leaves the conference,” Florida State said in the filing.

Florida State is asking a judge to rule on the exit fees and for a summary judgment on its breach of contract claim, which says the conference broke its bylaws when it sued the school without first getting a majority vote from the entire league membership.

The case is one of four active right now involving the ACC and one of its members.

The ACC has sued Florida State in North Carolina, claiming the school is breaching a contract that it has signed twice in the last decade simply by challenging it.

The judge in Florida has already denied the ACC’s motion to dismiss or pause that case because the conference filed first in North Carolina. The conference appealed the Florida decision in a hearing earlier this week.

Clemson is also suing the ACC in South Carolina, trying to find an affordable potential exit, and the conference has countersued that school in North Carolina, too.

Florida State and the ACC completed court-mandated mediation last month without resolution.

The dispute is tied to the ACC’s long-term deal with ESPN, which runs through 2036 and leaves those schools lagging well behind competitors in the Southeastern Conference

and Big Ten when it comes to conference-payout revenue.

Florida State has said the athletic department is in danger of falling behind by as much as $40 million annually by being in the ACC.

“Postponing the resolution of this question only compounds the expense and travesty,” the school said in the latest filing.

The ACC has implemented a bonus system called a success initiative that will reward schools for accomplishments on the field and court, but Florida State and Clemson are looking for more as two of the conference’s highest-profile brands and most successful football programs.

The ACC evenly distributes revenue from its broadcast deal, though new members California, Stanford and SMU have reduced shares and no distribution. That money is used to fund the pool for the success initiative.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Laney Blevins

East Forsyth, volleyball

Laney Blevins is a junior on the East Forsyth volleyball team.

The Eagles won two of three matches last week to even their record at 6-6. They’re also 5-1 in conference play. In the 3-0 win over Glenn to close out the week, Blevins came up big, recording a team-high 12 kills and 15 receptions. She also had five digs, an assist and a pair of service aces. For the season, Blevins leads the team in kills, is second in hitting percentage and assists, and third in aces.

Buescher plays playoff spoiler at Watkins Glen in chaotic Cup race

By Dan Gelston The Associated Press

— Chris Buescher won Sunday at Watkins Glen International, leading a string of five nonplayoff drivers to the finish in a NASCAR Cup race marred by late wrecks, shredded tires, and busted parts among the championship contenders. The chaos on the 2.45-mile road course at The Glen — in the playoffs for the first time before it returns to an August date next year — shook up the playoff

standings heading into the cutoff race. Buescher held off Shane van Gisbergen in the thrilling two final overtime laps to play spoiler and win for the first time this season for RFK Racing. The 31-yearold Texan has six career victories. Chase Briscoe, who entered 16th in the playoff standings and 21 points behind the cutline, was sixth and the highest-finishing playoff driver in the field in the second race in the Cup Series’ postseason. Four drivers will be cut from the field Saturday night at Bristol Motor Speedway. Briscoe shot to 11th in the standings, six points above the cutline. Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Martin Truex Jr., and

Harrison Burton are the bottom four drivers. Austin Cindric was 10th, only the second playoff driver in the top 10. Want to find the contenders? Look all the way to the bottom of the race results. Ten playoff drivers were dumped in the bottom 21 finishers. The race was bedlam for the contenders from the start when a wreck on the opening lap knocked out Ryan Blaney and also involved fellow playoff drivers and Joe Gibbs Racing teammates Hamlin and Christopher Bell. At least 11 playoff drivers ran into some sort of issue, including a rough scene late in the race where Keselowski and William

Byron crashed battling for position. Byron’s Chevrolet landed on top of Keselowski’s Ford with six laps left in the scheduled 90-lap race. There was no way this thriller was going to end in regulation. One by one, playoff drivers took a beating on the track — and in the standings. Joey Logano raced his way into the second round of the playoffs by winning the opener last week at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He finished 15th There was no automatic qualifier at The Glen into the second round. Blaney crashes early Blaney, the 2023 Cup cham-

pion, had his race ended on the opening lap after he was collected in a wreck that also involved playoff drivers Hamlin and Bell.

Blaney entered 45 points above the cutline.

NASCAR rules dictated the No. 12 Ford must be towed to the garage, while Blaney argued his team should have been allowed to try and repair the car on pit road, giving him a shot at staying in the race.

“They didn’t give us a chance to fix it,” Blaney said. “How are they going to dictate if we are done or not? They have no idea of the damage. They said we were done because I couldn’t drive it back to the pit box, but if you have four flats, you get towed back to the pit box. You can’t drive that back. I don’t know what is going on or why they won’t give us a shot to work on it but I don’t agree with (it).” NASCAR rules say cars can remain in the race for mechanical issues but not damage.

The top five finishers were all nonplayoff drivers

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y.

LAUREN PETRACCA / AP PHOTO

Chris Buescher (17) competes in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Watkins Glen, New York.

COLIN HACKLEY / AP PHOTO

Florida State coach Mike Norvell, left, is surrounded by his team in the final seconds of the Seminoles’ loss to Boston College on Sept. 2.

SIDELINE REPORT

GOLF

Rahm wins at LIV Chicago to claim season points title, $18M bonus

Bolingbrook, Ill. Jon Rahm won LIV Golf Chicago by three shots for the $4 million prize, and the victory gave him the season points title along with an $18 million bonus. Rahm played bogey-free on the weekend at Bolingbrook Golf Course to win by three shots over Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia. He was never seriously challenged. But he missed a pair of short birdie putts down the stretch that kept Niemann in the hunt for the season title. Rahm made a 12-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole that all but locked up two titles.

MLB Longtime Red Sox radio broadcaster announces retirement after 42 seasons

New York

Boston Red Sox radio broadcaster Joe Castiglione is retiring at the end of the season, his 42nd calling the team’s games. The 77-year- old made the announcement on the WEEI broadcast as the Red Sox batted in the fourth inning against the New York Yankees. Castiglione will remain with the team in an honorary ambassador role. The Red Sox will honor him before their regular-season finale on Sept. 29 against Tampa Bay.

WNBA Wilson becomes first WNBA player to reach 1,000 points in season

Las Vegas A’ja Wilson became the first WNBA player to score 1,000 points in a season when she had 29 in the Las Vegas Aces’ 84-71 win over the Connecticut Sun. Wilson hit a pull-up from the elbow with 2 minutes left in the game to reach the mark. Earlier this week, the Aces’ star broke the single-season scoring record that Jewell Loyd set last year.

NHL

Former NHL enforcer Peat dies 2 weeks after being hit by car Langley, British Columbia Former Washington Capitals enforcer Stephen Peat died from injuries sustained late last month when he was struck by a car while crossing a street. He was 44. Langley police said Peat suffered life-threatening injuries when he was struck by a car while crossing a road at about 4:15 a.m. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Peat had eight goals, two assists and 234 penalty minutes in 130 NHL games. He fought concussion issues and was homeless at times after leaving hockey.

NBA Lakers will honor West this season with uniform band featuring his No. 44

Los Angeles The Los Angeles Lakers will honor Jerry West this upcoming season with a uniform band featuring his No. 44. West died in June at 86. The purple band on the left shoulder of the Lakers’ uniforms has No. 44 in gold at the center. West played his entire 14-year NBA career for the Lakers and went on to be a coach and an executive with the Lakers, most notably building the 1980s “Showtime” roster.

Reaction to Tagovailoa’s concussion shows NFL has come a long way

Head injuries are treated far more seriously than in past generations

By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press

THE REACTION to Tua

Tagovailoa’s latest concussion shows how the league, its current and former players, fans and the media have evolved.

Tagovailoa sustained his fourth diagnosed concussion in five years in Miami’s 31-10 loss to Buffalo on Thursday. Immediately, the concern centered on Tagovailoa’s longterm health. Nobody was wondering when he will play again. Rather, most folks watching were debating whether Tagovailoa should ever lace up his cleats and step on the field again. Ultimately, Tagovailoa will make that decision. He will see a neurologist this week. Tagovailoa is focused on getting better and gathering information and isn’t thinking about retiring.

“If I’m him, at this point, I’m seriously considering retiring from football,” Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez said on Amazon Prime Video’s broadcast. “If that was my son, I would be like, ‘It might be time.’ This stuff is not what you want to play around with.”

More education about brain injuries has led to strict guidelines that help protect players, sometimes from themselves.

The league and the NFL Players Associations instituted concussion protocols in 2011 when Colt McCoy took a helmet-to-helmet hit in a game and returned without being tested for a concussion.

The protocols have been expanded a few times since. There are independent certified athletic trainers, or ATC spotters, watching in a booth and monitoring players on the field to have someone removed from the game if they see an impact to the head.

All players who undergo any concussion evaluation on game day must have a fol-

Alvarez wins unanimous decision in title defense

Super middleweight champion dominates against Edgar Berlanga

By W.G. Ramirez

The Associated Press

LAS VEGAS — Super middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez outpointed challenger Edgar Berlanga on Saturday night in front of a sold-out crowd at T-Mobile Arena. Making his eighth super middleweight title defense, the 34-year-old Alvarez (61-2-2) dominated much of the fight, using his experience and tenacious pursuit to wear down the 27-year-old challenger, frequently sending 20,312 fans into a frenzy, often chanting “Mexico! Mexico!” or “CANEL-O! CA-NEL-O!”

Berlanga lost for the first time in his career, dropping to 22-1-0.

“I did good. Now what are they going to say? They said I don’t fight young fighters,” Alvarez said. “They always talk, but I’m the best fighter in the world.”

Judges Max DeLuca and Steve Weisfeld scored the fight 118-109, and judge David Sutherland had it 117-110.

Berlanga almost matched Alvarez’s punch output, but the

champion was much more accurate. Alvarez landed 43.3% (201 of 464) of the punches he threw, while Berlanga connected on just 119 of 446 (26.7%). Alvarez also landed 49.1% (133 of 271) of his power punches.

Alvarez, a four-division champion, still hasn’t ended a fight early since scoring a technical knockout of Caleb Plant nearly three years ago, when he became the undisputed champion.

It appeared that drought might end when a sharp left hook to the chin dropped Berlanga in the third round, and further punishment from Alvarez seemed to be taking a toll. Alvarez landed a crisp right uppercut in the fifth and a vicious hook in the sixth.

But Berlanga wouldn’t go away as he stood toe to toe and matched Alvarez’s machismo, refusing to be bullied by the man he’d call “my idol” after the fight. He also got wild in the seventh, missing a wild overhand right that caused him to fall on the canvas, and was warned for a headbutt to Alvarez’s face in the eighth round.

“I got a little angry with his tactics, but I’m Mexican man,” Alvarez said. “It means a lot to fight on this day. It’s an honor to represent my country on this day.”

low-up evaluation conducted the next day by a member of the medical staff. Players have to pass various testing to get cleared to play again.

In 2013, the league agreed to pay more than three-quarters of a billion dollars to settle lawsuits from thousands of former players who developed dementia or other concussion-related health problems they say were caused by on-field violence. The final agreement was uncapped and so far it has cost the NFL $1.3 billion.

It’s too early to determine if or when Tagovailoa will play again. But everyone agrees his health is the main priority.

“The reality is we have more information (now) about the long-term potential effects of having concussions during football,” former Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears said. “I’m not going to lie. We played kinda blindly. We thought a concussion was in five, six days when you passed protocol, you stopped having headaches and you’re not

light-sensitive, you’re back on the field.

“I can imagine these conversations now are being turned into making sure long term that Tua is making a decision based on now but more importantly for his family and his two children. ... With the ability to have more information about the impact long term, it makes this discussion have more detail and more nuance than just saying: ‘Bounce back, Tua. We’ll see you when get back on the field.’”

Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in the offseason, won’t be pressured to play. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel made it clear the team won’t put any pressure on Tagovailoa.

“I know the facts are that it’s important that he gets healthy day by day and in that, the actual, the best thing I can do is not try to assess what this even means from a football standpoint,” McDaniel said. “I have to put his health as the primary.”

Alvarez closed as a -1600 favorite at BetMGM Sportsbook, which means a bettor would have had to wager $1,600 to win $100. The IBF removed Alvarez’s title after he chose to fight Berlanga rather than fight its No. 1 challenger, William Scull. In a very uneventful WBA middleweight championship bout, 41-year-old Erislandy Lara (31-3-3) successfully defended his title against Danny Garcia (37-4-0) with a TKO at three minutes of the ninth round thanks to a straight left jab to the face. Garcia’s father and trainer, Angel, requested the stoppage after the round.

“The punches I was landing were hurting him,” said Lara,

the oldest active world champion in boxing. “That punch that ended the fight was a big shot.” After falling behind on the scorecards early during a fight for the interim WBA super middleweight belt, Caleb Plant overcame being knocked down in the fourth, dominated the last four rounds and earned a ninth-round TKO of Trevor McCumby (28-1-0). With time winding down, Plant unleashed a flurry of punches to McCumby’s head that prompted referee Allen Huggins to stop the bout at the 2:59 mark. “I knew I had him hurt and had to go to work,” Plant said. “It was time to get my belt. Now I’m ready to go home and play with my daughter.”

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO

Canelo Alvarez hits Edgar Berlanga in their super middleweight title bout Saturday in Las Vegas.

REBECCA BLACKWELL / AP PHOTO

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel talks to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) as he leaves last Thursday’s game after suffering a concussion during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in Miami Gardens, Florida.

the stream

‘His Three Daughters’ hits Netflix, Keith Urban drops new album ‘High,’ ‘Frasier’ reboot

The Strokes’ Julian Casablancas and the Voidz are releasing a new album this week

The Associated Press KEITH URBAN’S 12th studio album and Kathryn Hahn’s starring role in the “WandaVision” spinoff “Agatha All Along” are streaming this week on a screen near you. Also among the streaming offerings worth your time include season two of the “Frasier” reboot on Paramount+, the debut of “The Golden Bachelorette” and the Strokes’ lead singer Julian Casablancas and his rock band the Voidz will release a new album, “Like All Before You.”

MOVIES TO STREAM

Writer-director Azazel Jacobs’ latest movie stars Carrie Coon, Natasha Lyonne and Elizabeth Olsen as sisters who gather in the New York apartment of their dying father. A highlight of the fall season, “His Three Daughters” is one of the most memorable tales of siblinghood and of a death in the family in recent memory. It’s out on Netflix on Friday. With Election Day fast approaching, Max is looking back to the last presidential race. The HBO documentary “Stopping the Steal,” directed by Emmy-winner Dan Reed, focuses on Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 results in Arizona and Georgia, culminating in the attack on the U.S. Capitol. It features interviews with Trump insiders like former Attorney General Bill Barr, former White House Communications Director Alyssa Farah Griffin and White House campaign official Stephanie Grisham. The producers say it “explores and debunks the claims of ballot tampering, illegal immigrants and deceased people voting.” The film premiered Tuesday on Max.

MUSIC TO STREAM

On Friday, Keith Urban, a fixture of contemporary country, will release his 12th studio album, “High.” He’s spent quite a bit of time in Las Vegas, doing the residency thing, but it’s clear songwriting—and making new material—has always been a source of creative magic for the veteran performer. And there’s a range, from the equal parts self-effacing and empathetic “Messed Up as Me” to the life-affirming “Wildside.”

Nelly Furtado’s seventh studio album, which is the first in seven years, appropriately titled “7,” arrives at a point of artistic rediscovery for the Canadian singer-songwriter. Just don’t expect any rehashing of the singles that made her a superstar in 2000 (yes, that means “I’m Like

returns

a Bird,” “Turn Off the Light,” and the like.) Instead, she’s embarked on a sonic experiment, from the bilingual Latin pop of “Corazón” with Colombian psychedelic cumbia innovators Bomba Estéreo to the electro-pop “Love Bites” featuring Tove Lo and SG Lewis.

Every day around the world, or at least the internet, guitar bands are born out of an obsession with the Strokes. Luckily for those musicians, its members have never ceased music-making, and on Friday, its singer, Julian Casablancas, and his rock band, the Voidz, will release a new album, “Like All Before You.” There’s a lot to dig into — like the metallic riffs of “Prophecy of the Dragon” or the minimalist synth production of “Flexorcist.” Paramount+ has cornered the market on new music docuseries and will continue that title when it premieres the three-part “Nöthin’ But a Good Time: The Uncensored Story of ‘80s Hair Metal.” Leather pants are optional but strongly encouraged. SHOWS TO STREAM

Since the 2021’s “Wanda-

Vision” revealed that Kathryn Hahn’s nosy neighbor Agnes was the witch Agatha Harkness, fans have waited to see more of the character. Hahn stars in a spinoff, “Agatha All Along,” debuting Wednesday on Disney+. The witch is powerless and forms a new coven to regain her abilities. America fell in love with Gerry Turner’s search for love on “The Golden Bachelor,” Now, a woman will be courted in “The Golden Bachelorette.” Joan Vassos, 61, has 24 men ages 57 and up to choose from. “Golden Bachelor” fans will remember Vassos as the contestant who opted to leave the show in episode three because her daughter had recently given birth and was experiencing symptoms of postpartum. Vassos, whose husband of 32 years died in 2021 from pancreatic cancer, says her goal going into the show was not to end up engaged but in a promising relationship. “The Golden Bachelorette” debuted Wednesday on ABC and is streaming on Hulu.

If season one of the “Frasier” reboot on Paramount+ was about introducing viewers to Grammer’s return to Boston to

fix his strained relationship with his son Freddy (Jack Cutmore-Scott), season two will flesh out the supporting cast. In a recurring role, Peri Gilpin revives her Roz character from the original series. Other guest stars include Yvette Nicole Brown, Patricia Heaton, Rachel Bloom and Grammer’s real-life daughter, Greer, as Roz’s daughter. The second season of “Frasier” premieres Thursday.

Zack Snyder’s”Twilight of the Gods” is an adult animated series featuring the wellknown Norse mythology characters Thor and Loki. The star in this story is the warrior Sigrid, who saves King Leif in battle and later becomes his wife. An attack by Thor on their wedding night starts a war. It premieres Thursday on Netflix.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Gamers who grew up in the 1980s will never forget UFOSoft, the company behind such classics as Bug Hunter, Pilot Quest and Grimstone. You’ve already forgotten because UFOSoft never exist -

ed. It’s the brainchild of some of the 21st century’s most talented indie designers, paying tribute to the 8-bit era with UFO 50. It’s a collection of 50 original games, including racing, fighting, shooting, running-and-jumping and dungeon crawling. The creators, who include the masterminds behind real-life hits like Spelunky and Downwell, say every title in the collection is a complete game — this isn’t just a bunch of minigames. You can download the whole package to your PC.

The Plucky Squire is a brave lad named Jot whose exploits have earned him quite a reputation in Mojo’s storybook land. But when the evil sorcerer Humgrump gets jealous, he kicks Jot off the page and into our more treacherous 3D world. Our hero has some mad sword skills but may discover the pen is mightier. It’s the debut release from the studio All Possible Futures, whose cofounder is a veteran of Pokémon..

The tale unfolds on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch or PC.

NETFLIX / DISNEY+ / ABC VIA AP

“Twilight of the Gods,” the Disney+ series “Agatha All Along” and ABC’s “The Golden Bachelorette” are streaming this week. A HIT RED RECORDS / CAPITOL RECORDS NASHVILLE VIA AP

“High” by Keith Urban drops Friday.

STATE & NATION

Tech billionaire returns to Earth after first private spacewalk

This image made from a SpaceX video shows the start of the first private spacewalk led by

Thursday.

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a

spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West.

To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour. Isaacman emerged

only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes. Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star. He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed socalled Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

American activist killed by Israeli fire buried in Turkey

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was shot by a soldier Sept. 6

By Andrew Wilks and Wafaa Shurafa

The Associated Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — A Turkish-American activist who was killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank was laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown in Turkey with thousands lining the streets and anti-Israeli feelings in the country rising from a conflict that threatens to spread across the region.

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-yearold woman from Seattle, was shot dead Sept. 6 by an Israeli soldier during a demonstration against Israeli West Bank settlements, according to an Israeli protester who witnessed the shooting.

Thousands of people lined the streets in the Turkish coastal town of Didim on the Aegean Sea as Eygi was buried in a coffin draped in a Turkish flag, which was taken from her family home. A portrait of her wearing her graduation gown was propped against the coffin as people paid their respects.

Her body was earlier brought from a hospital to her family home and Didim’s Central Mosque.

Turkey condemned the killing and announced it will conduct an investigation into her death. “We are not going to leave our daughter’s blood on the ground and we demand responsibility and accountability for this murder,” Numan Kurtulmus, the

speaker of Turkey’s parliament, told mourners at the funeral.

On Friday, an autopsy was carried out at Izmir Forensic Medicine Institute. Kurtulmus said the examination showed Eygi was hit by a round that struck her in the back of the head below her left ear.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that Eygi was likely shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli forces.

Her death was condemned by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the United States, Egypt and Qatar push for a cease-fire in the 11-month-long Israel-Hamas war and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks have repeatedly bogged down as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of

making new and unacceptable demands.

The war began when Hamasled fighters killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in an Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. They abducted another 250 people and are still holding around 100 hostages after releasing most of the rest in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November. Around a third of the remaining hostages are believed to be dead.

Israelis are growing increasingly frustrated with the government for not reaching a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis streamed into the streets in Tel Aviv demanding Prime

Mehmet, left, the father of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old TurkishAmerican activist killed by the Israeli military, attends prayers during his daughter’s funeral outside the central mosque of Didim, Turkey, on Saturday.

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bring the hostages back.

At one of the rallies, Anat Angrest, mother of kidnapped soldier Matan Angrest, shared a voice recording from her son while in captivity asking Netanyahu to make a deal. “I want to see my family and friends,” said Matan in the message. Angrest then addressed the head of Israel’s Mossad spy agency.

“Where are you, negotiation team? There is no deal for over eight months, so what are you doing?”

Anger has spiked since the bodies of six hostages were found in a tunnel beneath the southern Gaza city of Rafah earlier this month. The military said the six were killed shortly before Israeli forces were to rescue them.

Many blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, which opinion polls show a majority of Israelis favor. However, the country is also extremely divided and Netanyahu has significant support for his strategy of “total victory” against Hamas, even if a deal for the hostages has to wait.

Meanwhile, a campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio drew down and the World Health Organization said about 559,000 under the age of 10 have recovered from their first dose, seven out of every eight children the campaign aimed to vaccinate. The second doses are expected to begin later this month as part of an effort to which the WHO said parties had already agreed.

“As we prepare for the next round in four weeks, we’re hopeful these pauses will hold, because this campaign has clearly shown the world what’s possible when peace is given a chance,” Richard Peeperkorn, WHO’s representative in Gaza and the West Bank, said in a statement on Saturday.

The war has caused vast destruction and displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, often multiple times, and plunged the territory into a severe humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its count but says women and children make up just over half of the dead. Israel says it has killed more than 17,000 militants in the war.

SPACEX VIA AP

tech billionaire Jared Isaacman last

Jared Isaacman took a five-day trip with SpaceX

KHALIL HAMRA / AP PHOTO

Randolph record

Under arrest

Ryan Wesley Routh, a Greensboro native, was arrested Sunday by law enforcement officers in Martin County, Florida, and is suspected in an apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump. Routh, who has several felony convictions in North Carolina, was held on federal gun charges after an initial court appearance on Monday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Customer kills 18-year-old at N.C. Waffle House

A Waffle House customer fatally shot an 18-year- old worker in Laurinburg police say. Officers responding to a report of shots fired at the restaurant early Friday found Burlie Dawson Locklear, of Red Springs, a 2024 graduate of Hoke High School, suffering from a gunshot wound. He later died at a hospital. Police say the customer ordered food, became verbally abusive to staffers and fired two shots toward the restaurant as he walked back to his vehicle with his order. News outlets report police were looking for the shooter and have obtained a warrant. The restaurant chain said in a statement that Locklear was a victim of an outrageous act of violence.

Court overturns Granville sheriff fraud conviction

A state appeals court has overturned a former county sheriff’s fraud and obstruction convictions from late 2022. A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ex-Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins on Tuesday. Wilkins served as sheriff for 10 years and has been serving time in state prison. The intermediate-level appeals court said that allegations related to Wilkins falsifying his firearms training requirements didn’t meet the necessary elements for the obstruction and fraud charges. The ruling comes seven months after a subordinate to Wilkins had his obstruction convictions related to the training overturned. The exsheriff pleaded to unrelated crimes last fall.

Superintendent Gainey gets contract extension, pay raise

Only 14 of the district’s 32 schools met or exceeded standards for academic growth

By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Stephen Gainey, Superintendent of Randolph County Schools since 2013, saw his contract extendedfor four additional years this week, with his term now set to end on June 30, 2028.

“Dr. Gainey continues to lead the Randolph County School System with strategic, longterm thinking and thoughtful attention to the needs of our

students and staff,” the board said in a released statement. “Over the last year, Dr. Gainey planned for the future in our county. At the same time, Dr. Gainey elevated the parts of the school system that were already working well so that the quality of instruction will continue to improve.

“The Board encourages Dr. Gainey to continue to work diligently to recruit and retain talented staff, including advocating for higher wages, even despite significant challenges for hiring in North Carolina at this time. Dr. Gainey’s exceptional focus on safety has been critical and we hope that all of the community will continue to support the Randolph

“The Board is grateful to Dr. Gainey for his hard work and devotion to the Randolph County School System.”

Randolph County Schools Board of Education Statement

County School System in keeping our schools secure. The Board is grateful to Dr. Gainey for his hard work and devotion to the Randolph County School System.” In addition to the extension, the board also approved a 2.5% salary increase for Gain-

ey as well.

In other business, the board was presented with some of the data from the state’s 2023-24 school accountability report.

Each school was given a performance grade based on achievement score as well as academic growth.

In total, Randolph County Schools had one A-rated school, two B-rated schools, 14 C-rated schools, 14 D-rated schools and one F-rated school.

The A-rated school was Randolph Early College High, which was the only A-rated school last year as well, and the F-rated school was Southeastern Randolph Middle.

The district also had 14 of its 32 schools meet or exceed expected academic growth, which the standard is “roughly equivalent to a year’s worth of expected growth for a year of instruction,” compared to 18 schools having met or exceed-

See GAINEY, page A2

Trinity’s Tillery selected for RCSS teaching honor

The English teacher puts emphasis on finding challenges for students

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

TRINITY — Elizabeth Tillery wasn’t all that familiar with Trinity High School when she took her first job out of college.

But she was quite certain that teaching was going to be her passion. That hasn’t changed.

“I love being a teacher,” she said. “I think it’s very important for teachers to like the job.”

Tillery, an English teacher at Trinity, has been named Randolph County School System’s Teach of the Year.

She’s in the early stages of her 14th school year at Trinity. She said she attempts to emphasize the need for her students to know she wants what’s best for them. “I talk a lot about how im-

portant it is to show your students you care and help them care about their work,” she said.

Tillery, who’s from Concord, graduated from Central Cabarrus and then went to college at Gardner-Webb. She did student teaching at Rutherfordton-Spindale Central.

She was fresh out of college when she took the teaching position at Trinity.

“I had just turned 22 when I started teaching. I was a baby,” she said. “Now I can’t imagine teaching anywhere else.”

She has taught English at every grade level at Trinity. She mostly has classes of sophomores along with a writing class for juniors.

Part of her plan, she said, is allowing students to create their own paths in learning. That might involve the students choosing which books they might read for a project or assignment.

“I want to give kids the opportunity,” she said. “I’m a big

believer in encouraging students to take more challenging classes. Try something outside their comfort zone.”

Tillery also is the school’s advisor for Beta Club, which is a service and leadership group with about 40 members. She said the club’s growth

has been rewarding and members took part in the most-recent Beta Club state convention. Some projects overseen by the club have involved raising funds for Run 5 Feed 5 and Community Outreach for Archdale Trinity (known as COAT). There’s also been a book drive for Archdale Public Library.

Teaching is in Tillery’s family. Her mother, Mary Cashwell, is wrapping up a middle school teaching career this school year in Cabarrus County and she also has an aunt who’s a teacher.

As for the RCSS award, she said it’s a special honor.

See TILLERY, page A2

RANDOLPH

COURTESY PHOTO

Elizabeth Tillery

MARTIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

Neal Robbins, Publisher

Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers

Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor

Jordan Golson, Locals Editor

Shawn Krest, Sports Editor

Dan Reeves, Features Editor

Bob Sutton, Randolph Editor

Ryan Henkel, Reporter

P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer

BUSINESS

David Guy, Advertising Manager

Published

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Cooper’s environmental secretary steps down

Elizabeth Biser is moving to the private sector

The Associated Press

RALEIGH — Gov. Roy Cooper’s environmental secretary for over three years is stepping down before Cooper’s second term ends and is being replaced by a veteran state government administrator.

Elizabeth Biser, who was named to the Cabinet secretary post by Cooper in June 2021, is leaving her job leading the Department of Environmental Quality, or DEQ, to “pursue opportunities in the private sector,” a Cooper news release said last week.

Biser’s successor will be Mary Penny Kelley, who became secretary effective Tuesday, Cooper’s office said. Kelley is an attorney who previously worked as the special adviser to the governor’s Hometown Strong program, which is centered on helping rural areas. Her government work history includes holding positions as a senior advisor at

CRIME LOG

Sept. 10:

• James Michael Branch, 49, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for failure to appear.

• Timothy Wayne Smith, 29, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering, and larceny after breaking and entering.

Sept. 11:

We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

THURSDAY SEPT 19

FRIDAY SEPT 20

SATURDAY SEPT 21

SUNDAY SEPT 22

MONDAY SEPT 23

• Lacey Lee Andrews, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for second-degree trespass, simple assault, assault on a government official, resisting a public officer, communicating threats, financial card theft, possession of stolen goods, and financial card fraud.

• Ronda Faye Flowers, 55, of High Point, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass.

• Kara Jensen Lambe, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for non-support of a child.

• Justin Bradley Morris, 37, of Franklinville, was arrested by RCSO for felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, simple possession of Schedule III controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sept. 12:

• Michael James Hutchens, 34, of Greensboro, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a stolen motor vehicle and common law robbery.

• Justin Steven Roark, 33, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for trafficking opium or heroin, possession with intent to manufacture/sell/ deliver methamphetamine and Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle/dwelling for controlled substances, simple possession of Schedule IV controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Sept. 13:

• Heather Janell Brady, 46, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass.

DEQ and as deputy secretary at its predecessor agency, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

She is a graduate of NC State with a degree in biology and Tulane University Law School.

“I’m honored to serve North Carolina in this important capacity and appreciate Governor Cooper for trusting me to continue the critical work at DEQ,” said Kelley in a news release. “Safe air, land and drinking water are vital for strong communities, healthy families and a growing economy and I look forward to continuing protect these vital resources and hold polluters accountable.”

Biser was Cooper’s choice as secretary when state Senate Republicans declined to confirm the governor’s appointment of Dionne Delli-Gatti to succeed first-term Secretary Michael Regan when he became President Joe Biden’s U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator.

Biser’s time as secretary was marked largely by the implementation of policies to reduce a broad category of “forever

• Scott Robert Davidson, 53, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury.

• Temorris Mandrette Davis, 49, of Robbins, was arrested by Randleman PD for possession with intent to manufacture/ sell/deliver Schedule I controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Madison Jean Isham, 26, of Asheboro, was arrested by Randleman PD for possession with intent to manufacture/ sell/deliver Schedule I controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle/dwelling for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Kailey Blake Lambeth, 32, of Asheboro, was arrested by Randleman PD for possession with intent to manufacture/ sell/deliver Schedule I controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Brett Alexander Varner, 32, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for non-support of a child.

Sept. 14:

• Katelyn Noel Bollinger, 30, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for assault with a deadly weapon with a minor present, interfering with emergency communication, and communicating threats.

• Cameron Matthew Brown, 27, of Liberty, was arrested by Liberty PD for second-degree trespass and resisting a public officer.

• James Jennings, 58, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for resisting a public officer.

• Donnie Ann Kirkman, 61, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for simple assault.

• Kelly James Maness, 47, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of methamphetamine, misdemeanor larceny, possession of stolen goods, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Randy Calvin Marks, 63, of Asheboro, was arrested by

chemicals” commonly known as PFAS found in North Carolina water sources and to provide for remediation. EPA has announced new limits for these chemicals, which with exposure are associated with a wide range of health harms.

Biser had expressed frustration in recent months with the state Environmental Management Commission declining to advance proposed rules to restrict industrial releases of some of these “forever chemicals” into drinking water supplies.

Biser also served recently as president of the Environmental Council of the States, composed of state and territorial environmental agency leaders.

Cooper said he appreciated Biser’s service as secretary “and her work to help make North Carolina a leader in the fight against PFAS and other harmful forever chemicals.” He also said Kelley’s “long career in environmental law and experience within DEQ make her the right person to lead the department and continue to work to protect North Carolina’s air and water.”

Cooper, a Democrat, is term-limited from serving beyond the end of the year. It wasn’t immediately clear if Kelley would be subject to a Senate confirmation process before Cooper leaves office.

RCSO for assault on a female.

• Jameal Shufon Matthews, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for driving while license revoked, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, resisting a public officer, assault on a government official, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Candice Lea Nugent, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for intoxicated and disruptive behavior.

• Mark Elliott Rosberg, 33, of Rockingham, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting a public officer, and possession of stolen goods.

• Bryan Wade Smith, 34, of Rockingham, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon.

• Harrison Thomas Smith, 70, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a firearm by a felon.

Sept. 15:

• Benjamin Way Needham, 45, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro Police for assault on emergency personnel, disorderly conduct, felony possession of Schedule I controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Forrest Hunter Reiff, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault on a female.

Sept. 16:

• Justin Christopher McKinney, 27, of Sanford, was arrested by RCSO for obstructing justice.

• Cristin Marie Phillips, 35, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Michael John Poirier, 38, of Elon, was arrested by RCSO for false bomb report.

• Andrew Sanchez, 21, of High Point, was arrested by Archdale PD for statutory rape of a child, statutory sex offense with a child, and firstdegree sexual exploitation of a minor.

Randolph Guide

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:

Sept.

20, Sept. 21

Southern Randolph Country Days Street Festival

Sept.20, 5 to 11 p.m.

Sept.21, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. E. Main St., Seagrove

Enjoy this free street festival. On Friday, Southbound 49 will be performing on stage from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be vendors, food and concessions on site. On Saturday, enjoy a full day of activities. The parade will take place at 2 p.m. There will be crafts, vendors, live music, bounce houses and more.

Sept.

23

TeenZone

4 to 5 p.m.

Asheboro Public Library

201 Worth St.

Every Monday at 4 p.m., teens take over the TeenZone at the Asheboro Public Library! Asheboro Public Library TeenZone hosts programs for ages 12+, including arts and crafts, book clubs, tutoring nights and more. Free programs, no registration required. For more information, call 336-3186804.

Sept.

24

Randolph County Farmers Market

2 to 6 p.m.

214 Park Dr., Archdale Asheboro Downtown Farmers Market

7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 134 S Church St.

This is a growers-only market where you will find local, homegrown and home-processed products from Randolph County. The farmers featured are from diverse and minority backgrounds. For more information, call (336) 626-1240.

Sept. 25

Historic Landmark Commission Meeting

6 to 7 p.m.

Asheboro Public Library 201 Worth St.

“I was genuinely surprised,” she said. “There are a lot of amazing teachers in Randolph County.”

TUESDAY SEPT 24

WEDNESDAY SEPT 25

GAINEY from page A1

ed growth last year. Of the 15 schools that received ‘D’ and ‘F’ grades, all were designated as low-performing – meaning that they did not meet expected academic growth either – and 13 of those schools were classified as continually low-performing. “It’s disappointing when

you continue to see the same groups over and over,” said board chair Gary Cook. “It’s a tough job teaching. Public school, we take everybody. We don’t pick and choose and some are just harder to teach than others, so it’s tough.”

As per state statute, low-performing schools must develop a plan for improvement that “specifically addresses the strategies the

school will implement to improve both its school performance grade and school growth designation.”

Those plans then must be approved by the board of education at which point it will be made public.

“We will work, we will be better,” Gainey said. The Randolph County Board of Education will next meet Oct. 21.

The other RCSS Teacher of the Year finalists were Harmonee Klein of Hopewell Elementary School, Lauren Wood from Randolph Early College High School, Sarah Davis from Randleman High School and William Villano from Uwharrie Ridge Six-Twelve. Each school in the system nominated a teacher and then the field was narrowed by a committee.

TILLERY from page A1

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

It’s

time to get tough on China

CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland to around 384,000 acres in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty.

COMMUNIST CHINA will stop at nothing to dominate American markets, undermine our national security and take advantage of your tax dollars. This past week, House Republicans took action to combat the threat of China and protect the economic strength of the United States.

The Biden-Harris administration’s reckless Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) fueled inflation with trillions of new government spending and taxpayer-funded subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs). To make matters worse, the Left is allowing CCP-linked entities and Chinese manufacturers to take advantage of these EV tax credits and further dominate America’s EV market, essentially sending billions of tax dollars to China and giving them unlimited access to the U.S. supply chain.

Hardworking Americans are doing their best right now to save as much money as possible, especially as inflation continues to work against them. We need to take action to ensure your tax dollars are not in the hands of enemies that wish to destroy our country. House Republicans prioritized that by passing a bill to block adversaries like China from receiving these EV tax credits while restoring strength in American manufacturing.

In addition, China is actively working against America in an attempt to undermine our national security. In the past several years, CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland from 69,000 acres in 2011 to around 384,000 in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty — posing a serious risk to our national security.

With Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty being the largest military base in the world, coupled with agriculture being the largest industry

in North Carolina, I will not allow adversaries like China to buy up our farmland and possibly gain access to our national secrets and military bases. That’s why I was proud to join my House Republican colleagues in passing the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act. This legislation would improve oversight of foreign owned land and end any foreign land purchase that could threaten national security. For decades, the federal government has known that CCP- c ontrolled drones present unacceptable national security risks. Just last year, the world watched as a Chinese spy balloon flew over U.S. military installations like Fort Bragg/ Fort Liberty. Yet still, the Biden-Harris administration did not take any necessary steps to remove these drones from our skies and prevent China from attempting to infiltrate or surveil our military bases.

House Republicans stepped up and took action last week by passing the Countering CCP Drones Act. CCP-drones currently make up 90% of consumer drones that are flown and operated in America. This bill will end the drone monopoly the CCP holds in the U.S., protect our skies and begin to enhance our domestic drone market. It is reckless to allow China to be our drone factory and jeopardize our national security, and we must cut our reliance. The threat of Communist China grows by the day and extends to all aspects of our way of life. Now more than ever, the United States must get tough on China. By doing so, we can ensure our nation remains strong, safe, independent, and prosperous.

Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing.

“THE CROWN has made it clear. The climate must be perfect all the year.” – Oscar Hammerstein

Like the fictional Camelot, home of King Arthur and his mighty knights, Kamala Harris’s Democratic presidential campaign has a gauzy, fairy tale aura about it. After Harris’ nearly four years of service under the Biden administration, a magic wand has created a new set of clothes. Harris has repeatedly stated that her values have not changed, there is no daylight between President Joe Biden’s policies and her own. A champion of the Green New Deal, Harris believes this policy is the way forward.

The Green New Deal, a reference to President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, was first discussed by Thomas Friedman in 2007, suggesting a departure from “dirty coal and oil energy” into renewables. U.S. House Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) proposed a resolution to create a Green New Deal in 2019. It failed an initial procedural vote. Even the late Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about this idea. Consider how the Green New Deal would be realized in our communities.

First on the list of 10 tenets is “guaranteeing a job with a familysustaining wage … family and medical leave, vacations and retirement security to all people of the United States.” Fantastic.

Unfortunately, under the BidenHarris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing due to the influx of undocumented immigrants flooding the labor force. They are willing to work for anything, they are paid in cash and they avoid taxes. This displaces the entry-level job seeker who must report his earnings and pay taxes. Additionally, this person

is denied the benefit of early, on-the-job experience.

McDonald’s cites many successful people, including Harris, as members of the 12.5% of Americans who got their start slinging burgers. Considering the tax-free status of the undocumented worker, one must acknowledge that his “retirement security” is funded by your Social Security contribution.

Second on the Green New Deal list is “high quality health care … affordable, safe and adequate housing … access to clean water, clean air ... healthy and affordable food.” Too good to be true?

The Biden-Harris Health and Human Services Department squandered Americans’ trust trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Each bad decision fostered by the Fauci fraternity — mask up, lock down — was countered by a stimulus check, obscuring the damage caused by those reckless measures. The receipts are in and generations will pay for the damage to our culture.

“Affordable, safe and adequate housing” is touted as the American Dream. Harris has suggested giving a $25,000 subsidy to certain first-time home buyers to get on board the Polar Express. The real American dream would provide housing and services to our veterans, our sick and disabled. On a single night in January 2023, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported more than 650,000 men, women and children on the street, homeless and hopeless. This is an American disgrace.

Third on the list of 10 principles of the Green New Deal is “providing resources, training and high-quality education … to all people of the United States.” This is fantasy.

We are experiencing a massive shortage of teachers, day care providers and staff

employees. Public schools are captured by the Department of Education and hostage to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. In a controlled burn, this trifecta has managed to achieve the following results: 50% of adults in this country cannot read above eighth grade level, 3 of 4 people on welfare cannot read at all and 50% of unemployed people aged 16-21 are functionally illiterate.

Bolstering these averages is the charter school concept, which bypasses the union control and foregoes some regulatory requirements. The success of the charter model has been rewarded by having their budget reduced by millions in the Biden-Harris 2025 proposal.

Teachers are at the mercy of burdensome regulations, low pay and students socially unprepared for the rigors of institutional learning. Working parents, challenged with financial obligations and inflationary expenses, cannot find or afford quality day care. Some have waited two years to enroll a child in a facility, allowing the parent to return to employment. The real new deal would prioritize our child development initiatives and education beginning at infancy. We must implement a culture where children are valued, educated, socialized and incentivized to take on the challenges of America’s future.

The remaining seven tenets of the Green New Deal aspire to sweep the Earth clean of pollutants, cleanse the cattle and power up the electrical grid. All very aspirational. The price to accomplish these magnificent seven is estimated at $8.1 trillion by the American Action Forum. Sustaining these goals is inestimable.

The script for the Harris-Walz campaign production for the presidency requires you to suspend reality and close the curtain on the disastrous Biden-Harris administration. The cost of the ticket to watch this play is unaffordable.

Connie Lovell lives in Southern Pines.

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Hezbollah hit by a wave of exploding pagers, blames Israel; at least 9 dead, thousands injured

The Israeli military declined to comment

By Bassem Mroue

The Associated Press

BEIRUT — Pagers used by hundreds of members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded near simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday, killing at least nine people – including an 8-year-old girl -- and wounding several thousand, officials said. Hezbollah and the Lebanese government blamed Israel for what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack.

Among those wounded was Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon. The mysterious explosions came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza.

The pagers that blew up had apparently been acquired by Hezbollah after the group’s leader ordered members in February to stop using cellphones, warning they could be tracked by Israeli intelligence. A Hezbollah official told The Associated Press the pagers were a new brand, but declined to say how long they had been in use.

At about 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as people shopped for groceries, sat in cafes or drove cars and motorcycles in

the afternoon traffic, the pagers in their hands or pockets started heating up and then exploding — leaving blood-splattered scenes and panicking bystanders.

It appeared that many of those hit were members of Hezbollah, but it was not immediately clear if others also carried the pagers.

The blasts were mainly in areas where the group has a strong presence, particularly a southern Beirut suburb and in the Beqaa region of eastern Lebanon, as well as in Damascus, according to Lebanese security of-

ficials and a Hezbollah official. The Hezbollah official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

The AP reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment. The explosions came hours after Israel’s internal security agency said it had foiled an attempt by Hezbollah to kill a former senior Israeli security official using a planted explosive device that could be remotely detonated.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the United States “was not aware

of this incident in advance” and was not involved. “At this point, we’re gathering information,” he said.

Experts said the pager explosions pointed to a long-planned operation, possibly carried out by infiltrating the supply chain and rigging the devices with explosives before they were delivered to Lebanon.

Whatever the means, it targeted an extraordinary breadth of people with hundreds of small explosions — all at once, wherever the pager carrier happened to be — that left some maimed.

One video circulating online showed a man picking through produce at a grocery store when the bag he was carrying at his hip explodes, sending him sprawling to the ground and bystanders running.

At overwhelmed hospitals, the wounded were rushed in on stretchers, some with missing hands, faces partly blown away or gaping holes at their hips and legs near the pocket area, according to AP photographers.

On a main road in central Beirut, a car door was splattered with blood and the windshield cracked.

Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said to Qatar’s Al Jazeera network at least nine people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl, and some 2,750 were wounded — 200 of them critically — by the explosions. Most had injuries in the face, hand, or around the abdomen.

4 found dead in eastern Romania rainstorms

Hundreds have been stranded in the eastern part of the country

By Stephen McGrath and Andreea Alexandru

The Associated Press

BUCHAREST, Romania — Four people in eastern Romania have been found dead after torrential storms dumped unprecedented rain, leaving hundreds stranded in flooded areas, emergency authorities said Saturday.

Rescue services scrambled to save people in the hard-hit eastern counties of Galati and Vaslui. The bodies of three older women and one man were found in four localities, the Department for Emergency Situations said.

Emergency authorities released video footage showing teams of rescuers evacuating people using small lifeboats through muddy waters and car-

rying some older people to safety.

Some of the most significant flood damage was concentrated in Galati where 5,000 households were affected. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed there to help with the search and rescue efforts.

The storms battered 19 localities in eight counties in Romania, with strong winds downing dozens of trees that damaged cars and blocked roads and traffic. Authorities sent text message alerts to residents to warn them of adverse weather as emergency services rushed to remove floodwaters from homes.

By 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, more than 250 people had been evacuated with the help of 700 interior ministry personnel deployed to affected communities, authorities said.

“What we are trying to do right now is save as many lives as possible,” Romanian Environment Minister Mircea

Fechet, who was on his way to Galati to assess the situation, told The Associated Press.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis offered his condolences to the victims’ bereaved families, writing on Facebook: “We must continue to strengthen our capacity to anticipate extreme weather phenomena.”

“Severe floods that have affected a large part of the country have led to loss of lives and significant damage,” Iohannis said. “We are again dealing with the effects of climate change, which are increasingly present throughout the European continent, with dramatic consequences on people.”

The stormy weather impacted several central European nations. In Czechia, river waters reached dangerously high levels in dozens of areas, prompting the authorities to evacuate hundreds of people, including from a hospital in the second-largest city of Brno, to escape raging floods.

A 54-year-old man was missing, police said, after he fell in a flooded stream in the southeast of the country, while another three people were swept away in a car by a river in the northeast.

By Saturday evening, Czech authorities had declared the highest flood warnings in more than 70 areas across the country and said that thousands more people should be prepared to be evacuated as the rains continued to slam down. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute said such “extreme floods” in those regions only occur about once a century.

In neighboring Austria, authorities declared 24 villages in the northeast Lower Austria province “disaster zones” on Saturday afternoon and began evacuating residents from those areas.

Heavy rain also hit Moldova on Saturday, where emergency workers pumped floodwater

Hezbollah said in a statement that two of its members were among those killed. One of them was Mahdi Ammar, the son of a Hezbollah member in parliament, and two sons of other prominent figures were wounded, said the Hezbollah official who spoke anonymously.

“We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression that also targeted civilians,” Hezbollah said, adding that Israel will “for sure get its just punishment.”

Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.

Previously, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying they could be used by Israel to track their movements and carry out targeted strikes.

Sean Moorhouse, a former British Army officer and explosive ordnance disposal expert, said videos of the blasts suggested a small explosive charge – as small as a pencil eraser –had been placed into the devices. They would have had to have been rigged prior to delivery.

“It seems very likely that all of these encrypted pagers were modified prior to Hezbollah purchasing them, which implies a very successful Mossad operation.” he said, referring to Israel’s foreign intelligence agency.

from dozens of peoples’ homes in several localities, and 13 localities in three districts suffered partial electricity outages, authorities said.

In Poland, dozens of people were evacuated as a precautionary measure on Saturday from two villages near the town of Nysa, in the Nysa River basin, after meteorologists warned of unprecedented rainfall. Some farms were flooded.

Water levels continued to rise Saturday, and some roads and streets in the cities of Krakow and Katowice were flooded, and water penetrated the basement of a hospital in Krakow, though firefighters quickly pumped it out. Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that “the worst is yet to come.” Polish authorities appealed to residents on Friday to stock up on food and to prepare for power outages by charging power banks.

The weather change arrived following a hot start to September in the region, including in Romania. Scientists have documented Earth’s hottest summer, breaking a record set just a year ago.

HUSSEIN MALLA / AP PHOTO

Civil Defense first-responders carry a wounded man whose handheld pager exploded at al-Zahraa hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

Micheal Benson

March 28, 1948 –Sept. 15, 2024

Michael Lynn Benson Jr., 40, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024, at his residence.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Mr. Benson was born in Randolph Co., NC, on March 28, 1984, the son of the late Michael Benson, Sr., and Mary Haithcock Benson. He had worked as a roofer for over 27 years. He was an intense lover of heavy metal music, horror movies and his dog, June.

Mr. Benson is survived by his wife, Amanda Nichole Benson; daughter, Mary Dawn Benson; sons, Blake Benson, Thomas Michael Lynn Benson, Cole Benson, Michael Lynn Benson, III; sisters, Gail Kelly (Brant), and Brandie Comer (Andrew).

JoAnn Carol Rouse Cole

Nov. 12, 1949 –Sept. 14, 2024

JoAnn Carol Rouse Cole age 74 of Ramseur passed away Saturday night, September 14, 2024 at her home. JoAnn was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. JoAnn lived a full and vibrant life filled with laughter and cherished memories. She served as a park ranger with the North Carolina Zoo from 1982 to 1994 and then as a sergeant with the NC Department of Corrections from 1994 until 2014.

JoAnn leaves behind her beloved husband Tommy. She also leaves behind two daughters Tana Dunlap and her partner Austin Adams and Kimberly Nelson and her husband Nick. One son Rick Gordon and wife Kristy, each of whom will forever cherish her memory. JoAnn was preceded in death by her beloved son Jack “Jay” Greene whose memory she carried with her always. She was a proud grandmother to her eight grandchildren, Morgan Gilbreath and husband Johnathon, Brock Dunlap, Addie Nelson, Jackson, Evan and Valerie Greene, Ashlee Gunter and husband Nicholas and Dallas Gordon and wife Fallon. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren Harper, Finn, Jenson and Jessup. A Celebration of JoAnn’s life will be held Tuesday evening, September 17 from 6-8:00 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home Asheboro.

Tony Lee Cannon

Nov. 10, 1945 –Sept. 14, 2024

Tony Lee Cannon, age 78, of High Point passed away on September 14, 2024, at the Hospice Home at High Point.

Mr. Cannon was born in Randolph County on November 10, 1945, to Joseph Cannon, Sr. and Ellie Britt Cannon.

Tony served his country in the U.S. Army. In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his sisters, Merita C. Maner and Dixie C. Hayes, and brother, Joseph H. Cannon, Jr.

Tony loved the beach and was an avid shagger, where he met his wife, Jackie, who he married on the beach 19 years ago. He frequented SOS as often as possible. He loved the outdoors, gardening, traveling, building things, and spending time with his family. Tony was a huge fan of UNC-Tar Heel sports.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie Brady Cannon; children, Keith James (Cindy) of Greensboro, Clay James of Thomasville, and Christal Horner (Scott) of Hillsborough; his Las Vegas family, Sherry Fletcher, Ashley McCormick, Ryan McCormick, and Aubrey McCormick; 5 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; sisters-in-law, Shelby Cannon and Mary Ann Wynne; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Monday, September 23, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro. Funeral services will follow on Monday at 1 p.m. at the Pugh Funeral Home Chapel with Mickey Maness officiating. Interment will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery with military honors by the Randolph County Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr., High Point, NC 27262 or Gentiva Hospice, 533 S. Fayetteville St., Asheboro, NC 27203.

Robert “Bob” Glendon Davis

Sept. 16, 1937 – Sept. 13, 2024

Mr. Robert “Bob” Glendon Davis, age 86 of Asheboro, passed away peacefully Friday morning, September 13 after an extended illness. Mr. Davis worked as an electrician for the State of North Carolina. Mr. Davis was a veteran of the United States Navy. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Juanita Jackson Kesler

Sept. 10, 1929 – Sept. 14, 2024

Juanita Jackson Kesler, age 95 of Asheboro, NC, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

Juanita was born on September 10, 1929, in Randolph County to Daniel Franklin Jackson and Lela May Bulla. She worked as a secretary for many years and was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Randolph Genealogical Society. Juanita had a passion for the arts, loving to paint and quilt, and was a member of the Arts Guild. She also enjoyed collecting antiques with her husband, Charles, and their home became a personal museum filled with pottery and glassware. Juanita taught quilting at Randolph Community College and could be found in the Randolph Room helping them with their genealogy. She was known for her devotion to her family and friends. She is predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Charles Haskle Kesler; her parents, Daniel and Lela Jackson; her sister, Elizabeth LaJean Collins; her son, Daniel Keith Kesler; and her grandson, Christopher Derek Kesler.

Juanita is survived by her son, Kerry Kesler (Danielle) of Asheboro; her grandchildren, Allison Walsh (Dan) of Boone, Matthew Burton Kesler of Asheboro, Erin Seabrease (Zachary) of Asheboro, and Julian Kesler of Asheboro; Bryant Kesler and his mother, Elizabeth Kesler Howell; and her greatgrandchildren, Derek Walsh, and Olive and Samuel Seabrease.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 1-2:00 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro. A Private Committal will be held at a later time.

Bonnie Luck Bumgarner

March 13, 1970 –Sept. 12, 2024

Bonnie Ann Luck Bumgarner, born on March 13, 1970, in Randolph County, passed away peacefully at her residence on September 12, 2024, at the age of 54.

Bonnie was employed at Biscuitville where she made the biscuits daily for over 20 years. She was deeply dedicated to her work and cherished the camaraderie with her coworkers. Known for her generous spirit, Bonnie enjoyed helping those in need. Her family meant the world to her, and she found great joy in reading her Bible, working in her flower garden, and caring for her beloved cats. Above all, Bonnie loved the Lord and lived her life with a deep and abiding faith.

In June of 1991, Bonnie married Derek Bryan Bumgarner in Asheboro, and they remained faithfully married until Derek’s passing on September 14, 2014.

Bonnie is preceded in death by her husband, Derek; paternal grandparents, Edgar Clay and Mary Irene Luck; and maternal grandparents, Eldon Dale and Bertha May Lucas.

She is survived by her son, Jacob E. Bumgarner; daughters, Bryanna M. Bumgarner and Jessica Chamberlain; parents, Bobby and Shirley Luck; sister, Tina Loflin and her husband Derrick; grandson, Oren Chamberlain; and multiple nieces and nephews.

The family will hold a service of remembrance at a later date to honor Bonnie’s life and legacy.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to doctors Jason Huff and Heather Pacholke and the staff at Hayworth Cancer Center for their compassionate care and support.

Bonnie will be dearly missed by all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” -Nahum 1:7

Elizabeth “Betty” Powell

Feb. 15, 1927 –Sept. 14, 2024

Elizabeth “Betty’’ Cecilia Callahan Powell, 97 of Asheboro passed away Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Clapp’s Convalescent Nursing Home. Betty was born on February 15, 1927, in Bayside, Queens, New York to William and Frances Coyne Callahan. Betty graduated high school as the Valedictorian and obtained her bachelor’s degree in history from Queens College. She was a homemaker and a marvelous cook.

Betty had a very keen sense of humor. She was a well-educated lady who loved to garden and play Bridge. She was an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for the NY Times crossword puzzle. She was president of her garden club in California.

She loved her family, especially her husband Robert to whom she had been married for 48 years. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and one sister.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: sons Richard Powell and partner Tracy of Asheboro, Robert Powell (Martha) of Sophia, David Powell (Patricia) of Lansing, North Carolina, and William Powell (Diana) of Rancho Santa Margarita, California.

Ten grandchildren: Robert, Christopher, Ashley, David, Lauren and Bailey Powell, Scott McAleese, Kelly McAleese, Erin Nichols, and Jessica Pinto.

Twelve Great Grandchildren.

Services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 512 W. Wainman Ave. Asheboro, North Carolina.

Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is proudly serving the Powell Family.

STATE & NATION

Tech billionaire returns to Earth after first private spacewalk

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a

spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West.

To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour. Isaacman emerged

only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes. Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star. He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed socalled Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

American activist killed by Israeli fire buried in Turkey

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was shot by a soldier Sept. 6

By Andrew Wilks and Wafaa Shurafa

The Associated Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — A Turkish-American activist who was killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank was laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown in Turkey with thousands lining the streets and anti-Israeli feelings in the country rising from a conflict that threatens to spread across the region.

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-yearold woman from Seattle, was shot dead Sept. 6 by an Israeli soldier during a demonstration against Israeli West Bank settlements, according to an Israeli protester who witnessed the shooting.

Thousands of people lined the streets in the Turkish coastal town of Didim on the Aegean Sea as Eygi was buried in a coffin draped in a Turkish flag, which was taken from her family home. A portrait of her wearing her graduation gown was propped against the coffin as people paid their respects.

Her body was earlier brought from a hospital to her family home and Didim’s Central Mosque.

Turkey condemned the killing and announced it will conduct an investigation into her death.

“We are not going to leave our daughter’s blood on the ground and we demand responsibility and accountability for this murder,” Numan Kurtulmus, the

speaker of Turkey’s parliament, told mourners at the funeral.

On Friday, an autopsy was carried out at Izmir Forensic Medicine Institute. Kurtulmus said the examination showed Eygi was hit by a round that struck her in the back of the head below her left ear.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that Eygi was likely shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli forces.

Her death was condemned by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the United States, Egypt and Qatar push for a cease-fire in the 11-month-long Israel-Hamas war and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks have repeatedly bogged down as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of

making new and unacceptable demands.

The war began when Hamasled fighters killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in an Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. They abducted another 250 people and are still holding around 100 hostages after releasing most of the rest in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November. Around a third of the remaining hostages are believed to be dead.

Israelis are growing increasingly frustrated with the government for not reaching a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis streamed into the streets in Tel Aviv demanding Prime

Mehmet, left, the father of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old TurkishAmerican activist killed by the Israeli military, attends prayers during his daughter’s funeral outside the central mosque of Didim, Turkey, on Saturday.

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bring the hostages back.

At one of the rallies, Anat Angrest, mother of kidnapped soldier Matan Angrest, shared a voice recording from her son while in captivity asking Netanyahu to make a deal. “I want to see my family and friends,” said Matan in the message. Angrest then addressed the head of Israel’s Mossad spy agency.

“Where are you, negotiation team? There is no deal for over eight months, so what are you doing?”

Anger has spiked since the bodies of six hostages were found in a tunnel beneath the southern Gaza city of Rafah earlier this month. The military said the six were killed shortly before Israeli forces were to rescue them.

Many blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, which opinion polls show a majority of Israelis favor. However, the country is also extremely divided and Netanyahu has significant support for his strategy of “total victory” against Hamas, even if a deal for the hostages has to wait. Meanwhile, a campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio drew down and the World Health Organization said about 559,000 under the age of 10 have recovered from their first dose, seven out of every eight children the campaign aimed to vaccinate. The second doses are expected to begin later this month as part of an effort to which the WHO said parties had already agreed.

“As we prepare for the next round in four weeks, we’re hopeful these pauses will hold, because this campaign has clearly shown the world what’s possible when peace is given a chance,” Richard Peeperkorn, WHO’s representative in Gaza and the West Bank, said in a statement on Saturday.

The war has caused vast destruction and displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, often multiple times, and plunged the territory into a severe humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its count but says women and children make up just over half of the dead. Israel says it has killed more than 17,000 militants in the war.

SPACEX VIA AP

This image made from a SpaceX video shows the start of the first private spacewalk led by tech billionaire Jared Isaacman last Thursday.

Jared Isaacman took a five-day trip with SpaceX

KHALIL HAMRA / AP PHOTO

RandolpH SPORTS

Cougars, Blue Comets hit soccer strides

The teams won’t meet this year as their win totals rise

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — The boys’ soccer teams from Southwestern Randolph and Asheboro have excelled across the first month of the season.

They’re hoping for even better fortunes ahead.

Southwestern Randolph won its first eight games of the season. Asheboro has been off to a 7-2 start.

“You got to have a lot of moving parts to be healthy and ready for the occasion,” Southwestern Randolph coach Jimmy Walker said.

Triston Chriscoe of Randleman runs the ball against Caleb Minton of Union Pines on Friday night.

The Cougars began the season just a few months after the death of player Pedro Ortiz-Perez. Walker said that has proven as a motivator for the team.

Asheboro has taken on a strong schedule, so coach Nicholas Arroyo figures that will pay off throughout the rest of the season.

“We try to play the hardest teams we can,” Arroyo said.

That has given the Blue Comets some good tests against different styles before jumping into Mid-Piedmont Conference play.

“We’re trying to come into those very well tested,” Arroyo said. “So if there are any flaws, we want to detect them before we get to conference.”

Asheboro has standout forward Cam Letterlough back af-

ter a two-year absence, giving a jolt to the offense.

Last year’s surprising early exit from the Class 3A state playoffs has put the Blue Comets on alert.

“That’s a driving force,” Arroyo said.

Southwestern Randolph had a breakthrough season in 2023. That set a foundation entering this season, when the Cougars have outscored their first eight opponents by 43-9.

“We’re just building on the talent we had last year,” Walker said. For Southwestern Randolph, more answers will come if it becomes involved in close games. There has been only one outing with late-game pressure so far.

“How will we face adversity?” Walker said. “So far we’ve

Providence Grove scored first on Carson Jones’ 50yard field goal, but the Patriots (1-3) lost their third game in a row. Jackson Lawver scored on an 8-yard run.

played well enough that we haven’t been in that situation.”

The key for the Cougars to maintain their winning rate will be on the defensive end.

“We’ll go as far as our back four let us go,” Walker said.

The defenders are Daniel Arellano, Noah Freeman, Jaxon Lee and Diego Matias-Hernandez in front of goalkeeper Jonathan Perez Dominguez.

Asheboro and Southwestern Randolph won’t meet this season after agreeing prior to the season to nix the matchup. Initial schedules had the Cougars meeting Asheboro on Sept. 20 at Southwestern Randolph.

The teams tied 1-1 last year. Asheboro had won lopsided results the two previous years (9-0 in 2021, 8-0 in 2022).

Aside from the revamped

2020 season (held in spring 2021 because of the pandemic), the teams had met at least once in every year since at least 2010. They were in the same conference during some of those seasons. In the decade prior to the pandemic, it was nearly an even series. Southwestern Randolph held an 11-10 edge in those outcomes. Asheboro now has a nonconference game late in the week vs. North Moore. Southwestern has remaining nonleague games in October vs. Central Davidson and at Wesleyan Christian Academy.

Recent results

Southwestern Randolph ben-

See SOCCER, page B2

Wheatmore player makes comeback to playing field

The former starting quarterback had figured his football days were finished

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

TRINITY — Riley Strickland says he’s excited to participate in high school sports again about nine months after a scary incident in a basketball game.

The Wheatmore senior, who was the starting quarterback a year ago, returned to action with the football team in Friday night’s loss to Bishop McGuinness.

“It feels good to be back,” Strickland said. “Hopefully, we can get the win next week.”

Randleman and Southwestern Randolph added to their victory totals

Randolph Record staff

ASHEBORO — Quincey

Lee ran for two touchdowns and Asheboro’s football team reached the two-win mark for the first time in five years by defeating visiting Providence Grove 17-10 on Friday

night in a nonconference game.

Asheboro’s Connor Brinton gained 155 yards on 24 carries. Micah Garcia drilled a 24-yard field goal.

Lee also led Asheboro’s defense with an interception and a fumble recovery.

The Blue Comets (2-1) had three consecutive one-win seasons following a winless season in the spring of 2021 (the pandemic-adjusted 2020 season). They haven’t won more than two games in a season since 2016.

Randleman 21, Union Pines 7: At Randleman, the Tigers prevailed in the nonleague matchup of unbeaten teams.

Daylan Atkins and Ty Moton scored on touchdown runs, while receiver Tyshaun Goldston threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to Jay Richards. John Kirkpatrick threw for 184 for the Tigers (4-0). Union Pines is 3-1.

See FOOTBALL, page B2

Strickland decided in the spring that he wouldn’t play football as a senior.

“I thought I was done,” he said. “After the first game, I had to come back. I couldn’t watch.”

Strickland, at 6-foot and 160 pounds, said he’s open to playing receiver and defensive back if sophomore Connor Benton remains at quarterback. He said he sensed the Warriors could use a boost.

“They’ve played with me and they know I know how to do things,” he said.

First-year Wheatmore coach Jacob Sheffield had Strickland take practice reps at quarterback. He was used at that position at times in the 46-12 setback to visiting Bishop McGuinness, but the winless Warriors found him most valuable at receiver.

“Both of them work well together,” Sheffield said Strickland and Benton. “I know both of them have to be on the field for us to be successful.” Sheffield said it’s encouraging to have another expected athlete available.

See STRICKLAND, page B2

Asheboro boys’ soccer players react following a goal by Win Smith (6) earlier this year at Randleman. The other Blue Comets are, left to right, Diego Bustamante, Ozmar Martinez, Gerarrdo Medina Chi and Cam Letterlough.

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

BOB SUTTON / RANDOLPH RECORD Riley Strickland

JANN ORTIZ FOR RANDOLPH RECORD

HOME PLATE MOTORS

Kempton Reed

Southwestern Randolph, football

Reed (above, in blue), a senior receiver and linebacker, has been a key contributor on offense and defense for the Cougars, who’ll go for their third consecutive victory this week at Albemarle

In last week’s triumph at McMichael, Reed led the Cougars with 72 receiving yards.

His presence on defense might have been a bigger factor, finishing with 10 tackles including three tackles for loss. He also intercepted a pass.

The Cougars haven’t allowed a second-half point in either of their last two games.

Reed was an All-Piedmont Athletic Conference selection last year.

SOCCER from page B1

efited from Fernando Hernandez’s three goals in wiping out host East Davidson 8-0 last week.

That was the Cougars’ only game last week, staying undefeated in advance of beginning Piedmont Athletic Conference play.

• Asheboro’s 6-0 home plastering of Burlington Williams came with three goals from Diego Bustamante.

In defeating visiting Southeast Alamance 4-2, the Blue Comets received two goals apiece from Bustamante and

Letterlough.

• Providence Grove had a 10-1 romp at North Stanly, with Sam Peters and Saul Cortes both scoring two goals.

• Cadyn Pugh had the Trinity goal in a 1-1 nonleague draw at Southern Guilford. The Bulldogs wrapped up their nonconference schedule with a 6-1-3 record, tying 1-1 with visiting North Rowan earlier in the week.

• Randleman’s 1-1 tie at Salisbury and 4-2 victory at Oak Grove. The Tigers, who won 18 games last year, took a 3-6-2 record into PAC play after winning the conference in 2023.

Randleman keeps efficient clip in volleyball

(11-1) had compiled seven consecutive sweeps.

Randolph Record staff

RANDLEMAN — Randleman’s volleyball team was in cruise control last week.

After sweeping host Asheboro in nonconference play, Randleman continued its roll through the first cycle of Piedmont Athletic Conference matches. The Tigers needed just three sets to top both host Providence Grove and visiting Trinity.

Haley Hinshaw of Randleman raced up 26 kills and teammate Kadie Green provided 49 digs during the week.

By week’s end, the Tigers

• UCA bounced back from a rough stretch to sweep visiting Eastern Randolph and host Wheatmore in PAC play sandwiched around a nonleague home sweep of Richmond County. UCA’s Emory Johnson had 48 assists in the team’s first two matches combined.

• Asheboro also fell at nonconference foe Trinity, but the Blue Comets won for the first time in Mid-Piedmont Conference play by prevailing in four sets at Central Davidson.

In Trinity’s victory, Karrington Batten registered 22 kills and eight digs and Kaitlyn McCoy had 19 kills and 20 digs to go with three aces.

Cross-country

At Misenheimer, Wheatmore’s Scarlett Hildreth was the individual girls’ winner in the 10-team Pfeiffer Invitational on Saturday. Hildreth, a freshman, ran the 3.1-mile course in 21 minutes, 56.6 seconds for almost a 2½-minute advantage on runner-up Luciana Zamudio of Hough.

Wheatmore placed third in the team standings. Hough was the team winner, followed by Charlotte Catholic. Hough topped the 14-team boys’ field, with Wheatmore in ninth. Tyler McCormick of Wheatmore was the individual runner-up at 19:30.4, just 11.1 seconds behind Hough’s Preston Niblack.

Richmond keeps top pace at Caraway

Randolph Record staff

SOPHIA — Jason Richmond prevailed for the victory in Saturday night’s UCARs feature at Caraway Speedway. It was Richmond’s first victory at the track since midJune as he holds the points lead in the division.

FOOTBALL from page B1

Southwestern Randolph 43, McMichael 21: At Mayodan, Asher Perkins was involved in four touchdown plans and the visiting Cougars didn’t allow a second-half point in the nonleague game. Perkins ran for three touchdowns and 122 yards and made a touchdown reception. Teammate Noah Stills had 109 rushing yards with a touchdown carry and a touchdown pass.

Southwestern Randolph (2-1) led 29-21 at halftime, then tacked on a touchdown in each of the next two quarters. McMichael is 1-3.

STRICKLAND from page B1

“He’s a resilient kid,” Sheffield said.

Strickland, who turns 18 in October, is twin brother to Wheatmore player Gavin Strickland. Riley Strickland’s status took a disturbing turn during a Dec. 15 basketball game at Randleman.

Strickland’s injury came as he was trying to help the War-

• In Challengers, Dalton Ledbetter won for the third time in the last five features. His first-place spot came in a field of 10 drivers, with Gary Ledbetter in second place.

• Mitchell Wright prevailed in 602 Modifieds with only three cars entered.

Second place went to Tito Clapp, while Ron Mock placed third among 16 entrants.

West Davidson 20, Trinity 19: At Lexington, Ayden Brown kicked two field goals, including a 30-yarder, as the host Dragons (3-1) pulled out the nonleague victory.

Trinity (2-2) couldn’t protect a 13-0 lead. For the Bulldogs, Daniel Rogers ran for two touchdowns and Nazir Staton caught a touchdown pass from Noah Bradley.

Bishop McGuinness 46, Wheatmore 12: At Trinity, Wheatmore suffered its most-lopsided loss of the season in the nonleague game at home. Bishop McGuinness improved to 3-0. For Wheatmore (0-4), the

riors break Randleman’s press. He planted his foot awkwardly and tumbled in a noncontact situation. He landed so hard that his left shoulder popped out of socket.

“It was the freakiest thing,” Wheatmore basketball coach Craig Shoemaker said. “He kind of spun out and just fell wrong.”

Shortly after while receiving medical care in the visiting team’s locker room,

• Bentley Black maintained his stronghold on the points lead in Bootleggers by winning again. Steven Herring was the runner-up in the six-care field. Saturday night’s card will include two features in the Challengers and 602 Mods divisions. Also, there will be Mini Stocks, Mod 4s, UCARs, Bootleggers and Legends events.

touchdowns came on Elijah Hicks’ kickoff return and on Connor Benton’s short run.

Friday’s games

• Randleman (4-0) at Asheboro (2-1)

• Central Davidson (2-2) at Eastern Randolph (3-0)

• Union Academy (3-1) at Trinity (2-2)

• South Stanly (2-1) at Wheatmore (0-4)

• Southwestern Randolph (2-1) at Albemarle (1-3)

• Providence Grove (1-3) at Ledford

Strickland said he experienced a spasm or seizure-like episode that might have been related to shock.

“I didn’t know what was going on,” he said.

Strickland had just moved into the basketball starting lineup prior to the injury. He said he’ll probably skip the basketball season as a senior, though now that he’s cleared for sports participation again that could change.

A girls’ runner from Wheatmore won an invitational

JANN ORTIZ FOR RANDOLPH RECORD

Kadie Green of Randleman sets the ball during a match earlier this month.

pen & paper pursuits

this week in history

O’Connor became the first female Supreme Court justice

SEPT. 19

1796: President George Washington’s farewell address was published, in which he wrote, “Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all.”

1881: The 20th president of the United States, James A. Garfield, died 21/2 months after being shot by Charles Guiteau.

1955: President Juan Peron of Argentina was ousted after a revolt by the army and navy.

1985: The Mexico City area was struck by a devastating earthquake that killed at least 9,500 people.

SEPT. 20

1519: Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his crew set out from Spain on five ships to find a western passage to the Spice Islands.

1946: The first Cannes Film Festival opened in France.

1973: In their so-called “Battle of the Sexes,” tennis star Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in straight sets.

SEPT. 21

1922: President Warren Harding signed the Lodge-Fish Resolution, a Congressional resolution endorsing the creation of a Jewish state in Palestine.

1937: “The Hobbit,” by J.R.R. Tolkien, was first published.

1981: The Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination of Sandra Day O’Connor to become the first female justice on the Supreme Court.

1989: Hurricane Hugo crashed into South Carolina; the storm was blamed for 56 deaths

The Senate unanimously confirmed the nomination of Sandra Day O’Connor to become the first female justice on the Supreme Court on Sept. 21, 1981.

in the Caribbean and 29 in the United States.

SEPT. 22

1862: President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in rebel states should be free as of Jan. 1, 1863, if the states did not end the fighting and rejoin the union.

1911: Pitcher Cy Young, 44, gained his 511th and final career victory as he hurled a 1-0 shutout for the Boston Rustlers against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Forbes Field.

1949: The Soviet Union exploded its first atomic bomb.

1975: Sara Jane Moore attempted to shoot President Gerald R. Ford.

1994: The situation comedy “Friends” debuted on NBC-TV.

1985: Rock and country music artists participated in the first “Farm Aid,” a concert staged in Champaign, Illinois, to help the nation’s farmers.

SEPT. 23

1806: The Lewis and Clark expedition returned to St. Louis more than two years after setting out for the Pacific Northwest.

1952: Sen. Richard M. Nixon, R-Calif., salvaged his vice-presidential nomination by appearing on television from Los Angeles to refute allegations of improper campaign fundraising in what became known as the “Checkers” speech for its reference to his family’s cocker spaniel.

SEPT. 24

1789: President George Washington signed a Judiciary Act establishing America’s federal court system and creating the attorney general post.

1968: The TV news magazine “60 Minutes” premiered on CBS.

SEPT. 25

1513: Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama and sighted the Pacific Ocean.

1789: The first United States Congress adopted 12 amendments to the Constitution and sent them to the states for ratification. (Ten of the amendments became the Bill of Rights.)

1956: The first trans-Atlantic telephone cable officially entered service with a three-way ceremonial call between New York, Ottawa and London.

AP PHOTO

Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan perform for more than 78,000 people at the first Farm Aid benefit concert on Sept. 22, 1985.

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

‘Category Five’ examines superstorms amid compelling personal memoir

Fox weaves all the science talk into a personal narrative

By Rob Merrill

The Associated Press

I GRADUATED from Middlebury College with Porter Fox just over 30 years ago. We weren’t friends, but it was a small campus, and everyone knew something about everybody else. I knew he sailed and wore L.L. Bean like a native Mainer. I didn’t know that he’d spend a good chunk of his career as a journalist documenting the effects of climate change.

“Category Five: Superstorms and the Warming Oceans That Feed Them” is a mouthful of a title, but there’s a lot packed into its 254 pages. Part memoir, part travelogue, and part scientific reportage are stuffed with statistics that the cynical will say add up to one conclusion: This planet’s doomed. But while the numbers don’t lie, and humanity is certainly going to exceed its self-imposed temperature targets to halt global warming, Fox has written a book that doesn’t read like the sky is falling.

That’s because he weaves all the science talk into a personal narrative, telling his own story about growing up on an island halfway up the Maine coast with a father who built sailboats

ed me for most of my young life.”

The book then introduces readers to a variety of “salty mariners” who share with Fox their lessons learned about navigating storms, their research into what causes them, and their predictions for the future of the climate. The jargon may sometimes have non-weather and boating enthusiasts Googling things like “katabatic squalls,” “violent sirocco,” or “mizzen.” Still, Fox grounds his writing with good stories, either from his own life or told to him by the experts he interviews. “I will always live by the sea,” he recalls his father telling him when he was just a boy, then rhapsodizes about “the blank slate that the ocean represents, the lack of rules and obligation,” that calls to men and women who spend their lives on the water.

for a living. “The sea was an enchanted forest when we were kids,” he writes. “We built shelters out of driftwood on a tiny island in the middle of the harbor, planted a flag, and declared it ours.” Fox opens the book with a prologue about being caught in a storm while sailing as a young man. “I did indeed grow up working on boats, but I never learned about storms, how to avoid them, or how to sail through them. They haunt-

In the end, Fox argues that water might save us if the world just starts listening to oceanographers. The world’s oceans contain “95% of livable space on Earth,” while their warming waters wreak all sorts of havoc on this planet’s weather, they are also the “largest carbon sink on the planet.” That sense of possibility, the “mystery of the deep,” will give some hope. And it’s books like Fox’s — climate science wrapped in a compelling narrative — that can hopefully change habits, one reader at a time.

In ‘The Critic,’ Ian McKellen’s theater critic takes his job very seriously

Jimmy Erskine’s reviews can make or break a play or a performer

By Lindsey Bahr

The Associated Press

THE ARTS RARELY have anything good to say about critics. That they’re not generally the hero of many stories is, at the very least, understandable. More often, they’re portrayed as joyless, cruel and a little pathetic, themselves failed artists who live to take down others.

Without getting into any sort of philosophical or even factual debate about the nature of the kind of person drawn to criticism (besides perhaps a staunch antipathy to either job security or amassing wealth), it is safe to say that the drama critic of “ The Critic “ takes all the worst stereotypes to hysterical heights.

Set in the 1930s in London, Ian McKellen plays Jimmy Erskine, a veteran theater critic whose reviews can make or break a play or a performer. He has a monastic devotion to telling the truth as entertainingly as possible and knows what he must sacrifice.

“The drama critic is feared and reviled for the judgment he must bring,” McKellen says

in an ominous voiceover. “(He) must be cold and perfectly alone.”

When one woman dares to chat him up after a play, offering her take on the material and performances, he swiftly tries to remove her from the restaurant, claiming he must be protected from the general public. When an actress, Nina Land (Gemma Arterton), confronts him about his wildly inconsistent criticisms of her (how can she be both plump and emaciated, she wonders), he refuses to apologize. And he scoffs when the new boss at the newspaper, David Brooke (Mark Strong), implores him to tone it down: “Be kinder,” he says. “More beauty, less beast.”

But what starts as satire spirals into a wildly messy tragedy with contrivance upon contrivance. This film could have listened to its anti-hero’s advice to the flailing actress: Do less. That someone as great as Lesley Manville, Nina’s mother, gets a mere handful of scenes and is only minimally consequential to it all is telling. It strives to be an intricate spider-web of compelling, intersecting stories, but few characters are fleshed out enough for us to care.

“The Critic,” handsomely directed by Anand Tucker (“Hil-

“Theater critic as a tyrant is a juicy premise; ‘The Critic’ just can’t live up to the promise.”

ary and Jackie,” “Leap Year”) and written by Patrick Marber (“Closer,” “Notes on a Scandal”), is very loosely based on Anthony Quinn’s novel “Curtain Call,” itself more a murder mystery than this ever allows itself to be. Instead, the film is about the desperate lengths a man will go to when his job and freedom are threatened. Erskine is the kind of gentleman critic whose power and authority have gone unchallenged for so long that he’s become delusional beyond recognition. His words don’t just destroy, though. McKellen is having a wonderful time living inside this charismatic monster who you are with until you’re not. Erskine is also gay, an open secret that becomes a liability with his new boss and the rise of fascist thought around him. But none of it adds up to anything poignant or enormously entertaining. Theater critic as a tyrant is a juicy premise; “The Critic” just can’t live up to the promise.

Ian McKellen, left, and Gemma Arterton star in “The Critic.”

LITTLE, BROWN AND COMPANY VIA AP

“Category Five: Superstorms and the Warming Oceans That Feed From Them” by Porter Fox takes a journalistic approach to climate change.

Bill

SEPT. 19

Actor Rosemary Harris is 97. Singer-songwriter Paul Williams is 84. Actor Jeremy Irons is 76. Model-actor Twiggy Lawson is 75. Country singer Trisha Yearwood is 60. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., is 59. News anchor Soledad O’Brien is 58. “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon is 50.

SEPT. 20

Actor Sophia Loren is 90. Author George R. R. Martin is 76. Actor Gary Cole is 68. TV news correspondent Deborah Roberts is 64. Actor Maggie Cheung is 60.

SEPT. 21

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer is 81. Author Stephen King is 77. Actor-comedian Bill Murray is 74. Filmmaker Ethan Coen is 67. Actor Cheryl Hines is 59. Country singer Faith Hill is 57. Actor Luke Wilson is 53. Musician Liam Gallagher (Oasis) is 52.

SEPT. 22

Singer-dancer Toni Basil is 81. Actor Paul Le Mat (“American Graffiti”) is 79. Singer David Coverdale (Whitesnake, Deep Purple) is 73. Singer Nick Cave is 67. Singer Joan Jett is 65.

SEPT. 23

Singer Julio Iglesias is 81. Actor Paul Petersen (“The Donna Reed Show”) is 79. Singer Bruce Springsteen is 74. Actor Jason Alexander (“Seinfeld”) is 65.

SEPT. 24

Actor Gordon Clapp (“NYPD Blue”) is 76. Actor Harriet Walter (“The Crown”) is 74. Actor-writer Nia Vardalos (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) is 62.

SEPT. 25

Actor Michael Douglas is 80. Model Cheryl Tiegs is 77. Actor Mark Hamill is 73. Actor Michael Madsen is 67. Actor Heather Locklear is 63. Actor Tate Donovan (“The O.C.”) is 61. Actor-singer Will Smith is 56. Actor Catherine Zeta-Jones is 55.

CHRIS O’MEARA / AP PHOTO

Singer Bruce Springsteen turns 74 on Monday. AP PHOTO

Italian actress Sophia Loren, pictured in 1962, turns 90 on Friday.

CHARLES SYKES / AP PHOTO

Actor-comedian

Murray turns 74 on Saturday.

the stream

“Twilight of the Gods,” the Disney+ series “Agatha All Along” and ABC’s “The Golden Bachelorette” are streaming this week.

‘His Three Daughters’ hits Netflix, Keith Urban drops new album ‘High,’ ‘Frasier’ reboot returns

The Strokes’ Julian Casablancas and the Voidz are releasing a new album this week

The Associated Press

KEITH URBAN’S 12th studio album and Kathryn Hahn’s starring role in the “WandaVision” spinoff “Agatha All Along” are streaming this week on a screen near you. Also among the streaming offerings worth your time include season two of the “Frasier” reboot on Paramount+, the debut of “The Golden Bachelorette” and the Strokes’ lead singer Julian Casablancas and his rock band the Voidz will release a new album, “Like All Before You.”

MOVIES TO STREAM

Writer-director Azazel Jacobs’ latest movie stars Carrie Coon, Natasha Lyonne and Elizabeth Olsen as sisters who gather in the New York apartment of their dying father. A highlight of the fall season, “His Three Daughters” is one of the most memorable tales of siblinghood and of a death in the family in recent memory. It’s out on Netflix on Friday.

With Election Day fast approaching, Max is looking back to the last presidential race. The HBO documentary “Stopping the Steal,” directed by Emmy-winner Dan Reed, focuses on Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 results in Arizona and Georgia, culminating in the attack on the U.S. Capitol. It features interviews with Trump insiders like former Attorney General Bill Barr, former White House Communications Director Alyssa Farah Griffin and White House campaign official Stephanie Grisham. The producers say it “explores and debunks the claims of ballot tampering, illegal immigrants and deceased people voting.” The film premiered Tuesday on Max.

MUSIC TO STREAM

On Friday, Keith Urban, a fixture of contemporary country, will release his 12th studio album, “High.” He’s spent quite a bit of time in Las Vegas, doing the residency thing, but it’s clear songwriting—and making new material—has always been a source of creative magic for the veteran performer. And there’s a range, from the equal parts self-effacing and empathetic “Messed Up as Me” to the life-affirming “Wildside.”

Nelly Furtado’s seventh studio album, which is the first in seven years, appropriately titled “7,” arrives at a point of artistic rediscovery for the Canadian singer-songwriter. Just don’t expect any rehashing of

the singles that made her a superstar in 2000 (yes, that means “I’m Like a Bird,” “Turn Off the Light,” and the like.) Instead, she’s embarked on a sonic experiment, from the bilingual Latin pop of “Corazón” with Colombian psychedelic cumbia innovators Bomba Estéreo to the electro-pop “Love Bites” featuring Tove Lo and SG Lewis. Every day around the world, or at least the internet, guitar bands are born out of an obsession with the Strokes. Luckily for those musicians, its members have never ceased music-making, and on Friday, its singer, Julian Casablancas, and his rock band, the Voidz, will release a new album, “Like All Before You.” There’s a lot to dig into — like the metallic riffs of “Prophecy of the Dragon” or the minimalist synth production of “Flexorcist.”

Paramount+ has cornered the market on new music docuseries and will continue that title when it premieres the threepart “Nöthin’ But a Good Time: The Uncensored Story of ‘80s Hair Metal.” Leather pants are optional but strongly encouraged.

SHOWS TO STREAM

Since the 2021’s “WandaVision” revealed that Kathryn Hahn’s nosy neighbor Agnes was the witch Agatha Harkness, fans have waited to see more of the character. Hahn stars in a spin-off, “Agatha All Along,” debuting Wednesday on Disney+. The witch is powerless and forms a new coven to regain her abilities.

America fell in love with Gerry Turner’s search for love on “The Golden Bachelor,” Now, a woman will be courted in “The Golden Bachelorette.” Joan Vassos, 61, has 24 men ages 57 and up to choose from. “Golden Bachelor” fans will remember Vassos as the contestant who opted to leave the show in episode three because her daughter had recently given birth and was experiencing symptoms of postpartum. Vassos, whose husband of 32 years died in 2021 from pancreatic cancer, says her goal going into the show was not to end up engaged but in a promising relationship. “The Golden Bachelorette” debuted Wednesday on ABC and is streaming on Hulu.

If season one of the “Frasier” reboot on Paramount+ was about introducing viewers to Grammer’s return to Boston to fix his strained relationship with his son Freddy (Jack Cutmore-Scott), season two will flesh out the supporting cast. In a recurring role, Peri Gilpin revives her Roz character from the original series. Other guest stars include Yvette Nicole Brown, Patricia Heaton, Rachel Bloom and Grammer’s real-life daughter, Greer, as Roz’s daughter. The second season of “Frasier” premieres Thursday. Zack Snyder’s”Twilight of the Gods” is an adult animated series featuring the well-known Norse mythology characters Thor and Loki. The star in this story is the warrior Sigrid, who saves King Leif in battle and later becomes his wife. An attack by Thor on their wedding night starts a war. It premieres Thursday on Netflix.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Gamers who grew up in the 1980s will never forget UFOSoft, the company behind such classics as Bug Hunter, Pilot

Quest and Grimstone. You’ve already forgotten because UFOSoft never existed. It’s the brainchild of some of the 21st century’s most talented indie designers, paying tribute to the 8-bit era with UFO 50. It’s a collection of 50 original games, including racing, fighting, shooting, running-and-jumping and dungeon crawling. The creators, who include the masterminds behind real-life hits like Spelunky and Downwell, say every title in the collection is a complete game — this isn’t just a bunch of minigames. You can download the whole package to your PC.

The Plucky Squire is a brave lad named Jot whose exploits have earned him quite a reputation in Mojo’s storybook land. But when the evil sorcerer Humgrump gets jealous, he kicks Jot off the page and into our more treacherous 3D world. Our hero has some mad sword skills but may discover the pen is mightier. It’s the debut release from the studio All Possible Futures, whose cofounder is a veteran of Pokémon.. The tale unfolds on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch or PC.

NETFLIX / DISNEY+ / ABC VIA AP

“High” by Keith Urban drops Friday.

MOORE COUNTY

Walking for a cure

WHAT’S HAPPENING School district emphasizes commitment to safety in light of recent tragedy

First absentee ballots go out Friday

The State Board of Elections announced last week that the ballots would be mailed out soon, days after appeals court judges prevented original ballots containing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name from being sent. North Carolina had been poised to be the first in the nation to send out ballots to voters for the fall elections. State law directed the first absentee ballots be mailed or transmitted to those already asking no later than 60 days before Election Day, or Sept. 6 this year. But on that day the state Court of Appeals granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that included his name for president.

Court overturns Granville Sheriff fraud conviction

A state appeals court has overturned a former county sheriff’s fraud and obstruction convictions from late 2022. A threejudge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ex-Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins on Tuesday. Wilkins served as sheriff for 10 years and has been serving time in state prison. The intermediatelevel appeals court said that allegations related to Wilkins falsifying his firearms training requirements didn’t meet the necessary elements for the obstruction and fraud charges. The ruling comes seven months after a subordinate to Wilkins had his obstruction convictions related to the training overturned. The ex-sheriff pleaded to unrelated crimes last fall.

Moore County superintendent Tim Locklair gave a presentation on the district’s work and initiatives toward improved safety and security

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

CARTHAGE — In light of the recent shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia and the influx of community concerns, the Moore County Schools Board of Education was provided with a high-level overview of the safety and security measures that are in place in the district at their Sept. 10 regular business meeting.

“Over the years, we’ve had a

distinct focus on building and improving safety and security in Moore County Schools,” said Superintendent Tim Locklair. “That includes the systems, processes and practices, but also the resources and relationships we’ve built in the community to employ here in Moore County Schools.”

Some of the safety and security measures Locklair pointed out were the dispersal of safety and medical equipment in all classrooms and schools throughout the district, the Active Defender app, which alerts central office and police immediately to an emergency on campus, new district-wide visitor management system, mini towers on campuses without reliable cell phone service to ensure guaranteed service for police and first responders and improved video surveillance and entryway technology.

“Safety and security is the number one priority that we have to bring to our jobs each and every day.”

Moore County Schools Superintendent Tim Locklair

“Safety and security is the number one priority that we have to bring to our jobs each and every day,” Locklair said.

“When we have safe schools, when we have caring schools, when we have orderly schools, kids can learn. That has to continue to be our top priority.”

Moore County Schools is also one of only two school districts that employ a police force.

“I’m very proud and we’re

very fortunate in Moore County Schools to have our own police force,” Locklair said. “Certainly that is a great advantage to us to have our own officers who know our students.”

According to Locklair, the MCS Police have an officer assigned at every middle and high school and they’re each equipped with a sidearm, rifle, taser, bleed-control kit, Narcan, shields and door breaching kits.

The goal is to have an officer for each school in the district, but Locklair expressed how the district has had difficulty with recruiting due to state law requiring school-based officers to have at least one year of police experience in North Carolina, thereby excluding those with exclusive experience either out-of-state or within the

See SCHOOLS, page A2

Harris touts GOP endorsements in NC visit

The VP made campaign stops in Charlotte and Greensboro

The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE — Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump launched campaign blitzes last Thursday with dramatically different approaches to attracting swing-state voters who will decide the presidential contest. Here in North Carolina, Democratic nominee Harris used rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro to tout endorsements from Republicans who have crossed the aisle to back her. She also promised to protect access to health care and abortion, while delighting her partisan crowds with celebrations of her debate performance last week, taking digs at Trump and cheerleading for her campaign and the country.

“We’re having a good time, aren’t we?” Harris declared, smiling as her boisterous crowd chanted: “USA! USA! USA!”

“I was angry at the debate,” Trump said at a rally in Arizona, mocking commentators’ description of his performance at the debate last week. “And, yes, I am angry,” he said, because “everything is terrible” since Harris and President Joe Biden are “destroying our country.” As he repeated the word “angry,” Trump’s crowd in Tucson answered with its own “USA! USA! USA!” chants.

Trump’s vice presidential candidate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, made a stop in Raleigh on Wednesday, and former President Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Wilmington this Saturday. Trump visited both Asheville and Asheboro in separate appearances last month.

The competing visions and narratives underscored the

Former President Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Wilmington on Saturday.

starkly different choices faced by voters in the battleground states that will decide the outcome. Harris is casting a wide net, depending on Democrats’ diverse coalition and hoping to add moderate and even conservative Republicans repelled by the former president. Trump, while seeking a broad working-class coalition with his tax ideas, is digging in on arguments about the country — and his political opponents — that are aimed most squarely at his most strident supporters.

The post-debate blitz reflected the narrow path to 270 Electoral College votes for both candidates, with the campaign

already having become concentrated on seven swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Harris’ itinerary put her in a state Trump won twice, but his margin of 1.3 percentage points in 2020 was his closest statewide victory. Arizona, meanwhile, was one of Trump’s narrowest losses four years ago. He won the state in 2016. In North Carolina, Harris took her own post-debate victory lap, and her campaign already has cut key moments of

See HARRIS, page A2

THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The Moore County Walk to End Alzheimer’s took place Saturday at Sandhills Community College, attracting more than 950 walkers and raising a record $165,000. Here, the Pinecrest Air Force Junior ROTC presents the colors as Miss Sandhills Sarah Beth Howard prepares to sing the national anthem.

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

“Join the conversation”

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

Neal Robbins, Publisher

Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers

Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor

Jordan Golson, Local News Editor

Shawn Krest, Sports Editor

Dan Reeves, Features Editor

Ryan Henkel, Reporter

P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer

BUSINESS

David

Sept. 10:

• Edwin Leron Hammond, 51, was arrested by MCSO for trafficking in cocaine.

Sept. 11:

• Quintin Delmonte McMillan, 59, was arrested by MCSO for trafficking in opium or heroin.

Sept. 12:

• Quincy Markey Green, 43, was arrested by Carthage PD for injury to personal property.

Sept. 13:

• Antonio Marquette Wright, 39, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for nonsupport of child.

• Jacob William Sanders, 23, was arrested by MCSO for assault by strangulation.

• Lewis Rashaad Carlton, 31, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor larceny.

• Antwan Leroy Brodie, 50, was arrested by MCSO for felony larceny.

Sept. 14:

• Damien Tyvaun Jones, 20, was arrested by MCSO for assault with deadly weapon serious injury.

• John Thomas Coley, 31, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Sept. 16: Cody Seth Travis, 31, was arrested by MCSO for sell fentanyl.

• Brian Thomas Gilligan, 50, was arrested by MCSO for secret peeping.

• Guadalupe Cano Cazares, 26, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor larceny.

SCHOOLS from page A1

military.

“We’ve certainly pushed to hire as many police officers as possible, but we need 11 more to be fully staffed in Moore County Schools,” Locklair said. “We continue to aggressively recruit, reach out and run campaigns on that.”

However, board member David Hensley was adamant that the board should be even more proactive in the district’s pursuit of safety.

“It is an unfortunate reality that if there’s an active shooter event in Moore County,

the probability is that it’s going to occur in a school,” said board member David Hensley. “So we have to have the best trained and the best-equipped school resource officers. Their primary responsibility is the safety and security of our faculty, staff and students. They have to be ready to respond at a moment’s notice, alone, for an active shooter and then as follow-on officers show up, be prepared to be a part of that team. I think we as a board have taken half steps toward that.”

In conjunction with the safety briefing, the board also

approved the purchase of 12 OPENGATE Weapon Detection Systems.

“We’re currently operating with the metal detectors that we have available to our school police at events and activities,” Locklair said. “This is the next generation of that. These systems will provide us the ability to have a much more efficient way of checking folks for weapons when they’re coming in and out of our schools, whether it be our students or folks attending events.”

The Moore County Schools Board of Education will next meet Oct. 15.

HARRIS from page A1

the debate into ads. But Harris warned against overconfidence, calling herself an underdog and making plain the stakes.

“This is not 2016 or 2020,” she said in Charlotte. “Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails.”

She touted endorsements from Republican former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney, both of whom have deemed Trump a fundamental threat to American values and democracy.

“Democrats, Republicans and independents are supporting our campaign,” Harris said in Charlotte, praising the Cheneys and like-minded Republicans as citizens who recognize a need to “put country above party and defend our Constitution.”

Yet she also made a full-throated defense of the Affordable Care Act, the 2010 law commonly called “Obamacare” and passed over near-unanimous Republican opposition. She mocked Trump, who has spent years promising to scrap the ACA but said at their debate that he still has no specific replacement in mind.

“He said, ‘concepts of a plan,’” Harris said. “Concepts. Concepts. No actual plan. Concepts. ... Forty-five million Americans are insured through the Affordable Care Act. And he’s going to end it based on a concept.”

She saddled Trump again with the Supreme Court’s decision to end a woman’s federal right to abortion, paving the way for Republican-led states to severely restrict and in some cases effectively ban the procedure.

“Women are being refused care during miscarriages. Some are only being treated when they develop sepsis,” Harris said of states with the harshest restrictions.

The vice president added her usual broadsides against Project 2025, a 900-page policy agenda written by conservatives for a second Trump administration. Trump has distanced himself from the document, though there is a notable overlap between it and his policies — and, for that matter, some of the policy aims of Republicans like the Cheneys.

Harris’ approach in Charlotte and Greensboro tracked perhaps her widest path to victory: exciting and orga-

nizing the diverse Democratic base, especially younger generations, nonwhite voters and women, while convincing moderate Republicans who dislike Trump that they should be comfortable with her in the Oval Office, some policy disagreements notwithstanding. That’s the same formula Biden used in defeating Trump four years ago, flipping traditionally GOP-leaning states like Arizona and Georgia and narrowing the gap in North Carolina.

Trump, meanwhile, appears to bet that his path back to the White House depends mostly on his core supporters, plus enough new support from working- and middle-class voters drawn to his promises of tax breaks. A raucous crowd cheered his new promise to end taxes on overtime wages. The Harris campaign quickly labeled the proposal a “snake oil sales pitch,” noting the Trump administration abandoned Obama administration plans to vastly expand the number of workers eligible for overtime pay in favor of a less generous expansion.

“We are going to bring back the American dream bigger, better and stronger than ever before,” Trump said, beaming.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

Sept.

19

Moore County Farmers Market

9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

604 W. Morganton Rd (Armory Sports Complex), Southern Pines

The Vass Farmers Market

3 to 6:30 p.m.

Sandy Ramey Keith Park 3600 US-1 BUS, Vass Shop the Vass Farmers Market every Thursday at Sandy Ramey Keith Park. Enjoy supporting many local farmers and vendors.

Sept. 19-21

Moore County Historical Association: Shaw House & Property Tours

1 to 4 p.m.

Shaw House 110 Morganton Rd., Pinehurst

The Moore County Historical Association’s Shaw House grounds and properties are open for tours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The tours are free and open to all ages. Enjoy learning of the impressive history here in Moore County. “The Moore County Historical Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing, the rich historical legacy of the towns, cities and surrounding area, of Moore County, North Carolina.”

Sept. 20 – Oct. 1

“Donate Your Stuff” for the 2024 Shaw House Tag Sale 12:00 pm Shaw House 110 Morganton Rd., Pinehurst

“Donate Your Stuff” for the 2024 Tag Sale to benefit the preservation of our Moore County Historical Association! You may drop donations Monday-Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Shaw House in Southern Pines. You may also call 910-692-2051 to arrange for pickup of donations. The last day to donate is October 1st.

Sept. 25

Sandhills Farmers Market

3 to 6 p.m. James W. Tufts Memorial Park

1 Village Green Rd. West, Pinehurst

The Sandhills Farmers Market features some of the many wonderful farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheesemakers and specialty food producers our area has to offer. For

JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally at Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte last Thursday.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| REP. RICHARD HUDSON

It’s

time to get tough on China

CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland to around 384,000 acres in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty.

COMMUNIST CHINA will stop at nothing to dominate American markets, undermine our national security and take advantage of your tax dollars. This past week, House Republicans took action to combat the threat of China and protect the economic strength of the United States.

The Biden-Harris administration’s reckless Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) fueled inflation with trillions of new government spending and taxpayer-funded subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs). To make matters worse, the Left is allowing CCP-linked entities and Chinese manufacturers to take advantage of these EV tax credits and further dominate America’s EV market, essentially sending billions of tax dollars to China and giving them unlimited access to the U.S. supply chain.

Hardworking Americans are doing their best right now to save as much money as possible, especially as inflation continues to work against them. We need to take action to ensure your tax dollars are not in the hands of enemies that wish to destroy our country. House Republicans prioritized that by passing a bill to block adversaries like China from receiving these EV tax credits while restoring strength in American manufacturing.

In addition, China is actively working against America in an attempt to undermine our national security. In the past several years, CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland from 69,000 acres in 2011 to around 384,000 in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty — posing a serious risk to our national security.

With Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty being the largest military base in the world, coupled with agriculture being the largest industry

in North Carolina, I will not allow adversaries like China to buy up our farmland and possibly gain access to our national secrets and military bases. That’s why I was proud to join my House Republican colleagues in passing the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act. This legislation would improve oversight of foreign owned land and end any foreign land purchase that could threaten national security. For decades, the federal government has known that CCP- c ontrolled drones present unacceptable national security risks. Just last year, the world watched as a Chinese spy balloon flew over U.S. military installations like Fort Bragg/ Fort Liberty. Yet still, the Biden-Harris administration did not take any necessary steps to remove these drones from our skies and prevent China from attempting to infiltrate or surveil our military bases.

House Republicans stepped up and took action last week by passing the Countering CCP Drones Act. CCP-drones currently make up 90% of consumer drones that are flown and operated in America. This bill will end the drone monopoly the CCP holds in the U.S., protect our skies and begin to enhance our domestic drone market. It is reckless to allow China to be our drone factory and jeopardize our national security, and we must cut our reliance.

The threat of Communist China grows by the day and extends to all aspects of our way of life. Now more than ever, the United States must get tough on China. By doing so, we can ensure our nation remains strong, safe, independent, and prosperous.

Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing.

“THE CROWN has made it clear. The climate must be perfect all the year.” – Oscar Hammerstein

Like the fictional Camelot, home of King Arthur and his mighty knights, Kamala Harris’s Democratic presidential campaign has a gauzy, fairy tale aura about it. After Harris’ nearly four years of service under the Biden administration, a magic wand has created a new set of clothes. Harris has repeatedly stated that her values have not changed, there is no daylight between President Joe Biden’s policies and her own. A champion of the Green New Deal, Harris believes this policy is the way forward.

The Green New Deal, a reference to President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, was first discussed by Thomas Friedman in 2007, suggesting a departure from “dirty coal and oil energy” into renewables. U.S. House Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) proposed a resolution to create a Green New Deal in 2019. It failed an initial procedural vote. Even the late Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about this idea. Consider how the Green New Deal would be realized in our communities.

First on the list of 10 tenets is “guaranteeing a job with a familysustaining wage … family and medical leave, vacations and retirement security to all people of the United States.” Fantastic.

Unfortunately, under the BidenHarris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing due to the influx of undocumented immigrants flooding the labor force. They are willing to work for anything, they are paid in cash and they avoid taxes. This displaces the entry-level job seeker who must report his earnings and pay taxes. Additionally, this person

is denied the benefit of early, on-the-job experience.

McDonald’s cites many successful people, including Harris, as members of the 12.5% of Americans who got their start slinging burgers. Considering the tax-free status of the undocumented worker, one must acknowledge that his “retirement security” is funded by your Social Security contribution.

Second on the Green New Deal list is “high quality health care … affordable, safe and adequate housing … access to clean water, clean air ... healthy and affordable food.” Too good to be true?

The Biden-Harris Health and Human Services Department squandered Americans’ trust trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Each bad decision fostered by the Fauci fraternity — mask up, lock down — was countered by a stimulus check, obscuring the damage caused by those reckless measures. The receipts are in and generations will pay for the damage to our culture.

“Affordable, safe and adequate housing” is touted as the American Dream. Harris has suggested giving a $25,000 subsidy to certain first-time home buyers to get on board the Polar Express. The real American dream would provide housing and services to our veterans, our sick and disabled. On a single night in January 2023, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported more than 650,000 men, women and children on the street, homeless and hopeless. This is an American disgrace.

Third on the list of 10 principles of the Green New Deal is “providing resources, training and high-quality education … to all people of the United States.” This is fantasy.

We are experiencing a massive shortage of teachers, day care providers and staff

employees. Public schools are captured by the Department of Education and hostage to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. In a controlled burn, this trifecta has managed to achieve the following results: 50% of adults in this country cannot read above eighth grade level, 3 of 4 people on welfare cannot read at all and 50% of unemployed people aged 16-21 are functionally illiterate.

Bolstering these averages is the charter school concept, which bypasses the union control and foregoes some regulatory requirements. The success of the charter model has been rewarded by having their budget reduced by millions in the Biden-Harris 2025 proposal.

Teachers are at the mercy of burdensome regulations, low pay and students socially unprepared for the rigors of institutional learning. Working parents, challenged with financial obligations and inflationary expenses, cannot find or afford quality day care. Some have waited two years to enroll a child in a facility, allowing the parent to return to employment. The real new deal would prioritize our child development initiatives and education beginning at infancy. We must implement a culture where children are valued, educated, socialized and incentivized to take on the challenges of America’s future.

The remaining seven tenets of the Green New Deal aspire to sweep the Earth clean of pollutants, cleanse the cattle and power up the electrical grid. All very aspirational. The price to accomplish these magnificent seven is estimated at $8.1 trillion by the American Action Forum. Sustaining these goals is inestimable.

The script for the Harris-Walz campaign production for the presidency requires you to suspend reality and close the curtain on the disastrous Biden-Harris administration. The cost of the ticket to watch this play is unaffordable.

Connie Lovell lives in Southern Pines.

COLUMN

Hezbollah hit by a wave of exploding pagers, blames Israel; at least 9 dead, thousands injured

The Israeli military declined to comment

By Bassem Mroue

The Associated Press

BEIRUT — Pagers used by hundreds of members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded near simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday, killing at least nine people – including an 8-year-old girl -- and wounding several thousand, officials said. Hezbollah and the Lebanese government blamed Israel for what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack.

Among those wounded was Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon.

The mysterious explosions came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza.

The pagers that blew up had apparently been acquired by Hezbollah after the group’s leader ordered members in February to stop using cellphones, warning they could be tracked by Israeli intelligence. A Hezbollah official told The Associated Press the pagers were a new brand, but declined to say how long they had been in use.

At about 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as people shopped for groceries, sat in cafes or drove cars and motorcycles in

carry a wounded man whose handheld pager exploded at al-Zahraa

Lebanon.

the afternoon traffic, the pagers in their hands or pockets started heating up and then exploding — leaving blood-splattered scenes and panicking bystanders. It appeared that many of those hit were members of Hezbollah, but it was not immediately clear if others also carried the pagers.

The blasts were mainly in areas where the group has a strong presence, particularly a southern Beirut suburb and in the Beqaa region of eastern Lebanon, as well as in Damascus, according to Lebanese security of-

ficials and a Hezbollah official. The Hezbollah official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

The AP reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment. The explosions came hours after Israel’s internal security agency said it had foiled an attempt by Hezbollah to kill a former senior Israeli security official using a planted explosive device that could be remotely detonated.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the United States “was not aware

of this incident in advance” and was not involved. “At this point, we’re gathering information,” he said.

Experts said the pager explosions pointed to a long-planned operation, possibly carried out by infiltrating the supply chain and rigging the devices with explosives before they were delivered to Lebanon.

Whatever the means, it targeted an extraordinary breadth of people with hundreds of small explosions — all at once, wherever the pager carrier happened to be — that left some maimed.

One video circulating online showed a man picking through produce at a grocery store when the bag he was carrying at his hip explodes, sending him sprawling to the ground and bystanders running.

At overwhelmed hospitals, the wounded were rushed in on stretchers, some with missing hands, faces partly blown away or gaping holes at their hips and legs near the pocket area, according to AP photographers. On a main road in central Beirut, a car door was splattered with blood and the windshield cracked.

Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said to Qatar’s Al Jazeera network at least nine people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl, and some 2,750 were wounded — 200 of them critically — by the explosions. Most had injuries in the face, hand, or around the abdomen.

4 found dead in eastern Romania rainstorms

Hundreds have been stranded in the eastern part of the country

By Stephen McGrath and Andreea Alexandru

The Associated Press

BUCHAREST, Romania —

Four people in eastern Romania have been found dead after torrential storms dumped unprecedented rain, leaving hundreds stranded in flooded areas, emergency authorities said Saturday.

Rescue services scrambled to save people in the hard-hit eastern counties of Galati and Vaslui. The bodies of three older women and one man were found in four localities, the Department for Emergency Situations said.

Emergency authorities released video footage showing teams of rescuers evacuating people using small lifeboats through muddy waters and car-

rying some older people to safety.

Some of the most significant flood damage was concentrated in Galati where 5,000 households were affected. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed there to help with the search and rescue efforts.

The storms battered 19 localities in eight counties in Romania, with strong winds downing dozens of trees that damaged cars and blocked roads and traffic. Authorities sent text message alerts to residents to warn them of adverse weather as emergency services rushed to remove floodwaters from homes.

By 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, more than 250 people had been evacuated with the help of 700 interior ministry personnel deployed to affected communities, authorities said.

“What we are trying to do right now is save as many lives as possible,” Romanian Environment Minister Mircea

Fechet, who was on his way to Galati to assess the situation, told The Associated Press.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis offered his condolences to the victims’ bereaved families, writing on Facebook: “We must continue to strengthen our capacity to anticipate extreme weather phenomena.”

“Severe floods that have affected a large part of the country have led to loss of lives and significant damage,” Iohannis said. “We are again dealing with the effects of climate change, which are increasingly present throughout the European continent, with dramatic consequences on people.”

The stormy weather impacted several central European nations. In Czechia, river waters reached dangerously high levels in dozens of areas, prompting the authorities to evacuate hundreds of people, including from a hospital in the second-largest city of Brno, to escape raging floods.

A 54-year-old man was missing, police said, after he fell in a flooded stream in the southeast of the country, while another three people were swept away in a car by a river in the northeast.

By Saturday evening, Czech authorities had declared the highest flood warnings in more than 70 areas across the country and said that thousands more people should be prepared to be evacuated as the rains continued to slam down. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute said such “extreme floods” in those regions only occur about once a century. In neighboring Austria, authorities declared 24 villages in the northeast Lower Austria province “disaster zones” on Saturday afternoon and began evacuating residents from those areas.

Heavy rain also hit Moldova on Saturday, where emergency workers pumped floodwater

Hezbollah said in a statement that two of its members were among those killed. One of them was Mahdi Ammar, the son of a Hezbollah member in parliament, and two sons of other prominent figures were wounded, said the Hezbollah official who spoke anonymously.

“We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression that also targeted civilians,” Hezbollah said, adding that Israel will “for sure get its just punishment.”

Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.

Previously, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying they could be used by Israel to track their movements and carry out targeted strikes.

Sean Moorhouse, a former British Army officer and explosive ordnance disposal expert, said videos of the blasts suggested a small explosive charge – as small as a pencil eraser –had been placed into the devices. They would have had to have been rigged prior to delivery.

“It seems very likely that all of these encrypted pagers were modified prior to Hezbollah purchasing them, which implies a very successful Mossad operation.” he said, referring to Israel’s foreign intelligence agency.

from dozens of peoples’ homes in several localities, and 13 localities in three districts suffered partial electricity outages, authorities said.

In Poland, dozens of people were evacuated as a precautionary measure on Saturday from two villages near the town of Nysa, in the Nysa River basin, after meteorologists warned of unprecedented rainfall. Some farms were flooded. Water levels continued to rise Saturday, and some roads and streets in the cities of Krakow and Katowice were flooded, and water penetrated the basement of a hospital in Krakow, though firefighters quickly pumped it out. Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that “the worst is yet to come.” Polish authorities appealed to residents on Friday to stock up on food and to prepare for power outages by charging power banks.

The weather change arrived following a hot start to September in the region, including in Romania. Scientists have documented Earth’s hottest summer, breaking a record set just a year ago.

HUSSEIN MALLA / AP PHOTO

Civil Defense first-responders

hospital in Beirut,

MOORE SPORTS

Emily Regtuyt

Pinecrest, volleyball

Emily Regtuyt is a sophomore on the Pinecrest volleyball team.

The Patriots have won four of their last five, including two of three last week, and are now 9-5 on the year and leading the Sandhills at 5-0.

Regtuyt had six blocks in a win over Scotland, adding three kills, an ace, two digs and two assists. For the year, she leads the team in blocks and is second in hitting percentage. Her 42 blocks also lead the Sandhills Conference.

Union Pines, Pinecrest enjoy fast starts

North Moore still seeking first win

North State Journal staff

MOORE COUNTY lost one unbeaten last week but still has an undefeated football team. Here’s a look at where the three schools across the county stand on the gridiron.

Union Pines

The Vikings suffered their first loss of the season, after opening 3-0. Union Pines fell to Randleman, 21-7, on the road. The three straight wins to open the year gave Union Pines as many wins as it had i n a ny of the last three full seasons.

The Randleman loss was also the first time Union Pines has surrendered points this season, after opening with three straight shutouts, 42-0 at

Triton, 35-0 over Northwood and 45-0 over Western Harnett. It was the fastest start for the Vikings since 2015. Next up for the Vikings is conference play, with a home game against Lee County, Friday at 7:30 p.m. The Yellow Jackets are also 3-1 and coming off a win at Panther Creek last week.

Pinecrest

They’re living dangerously, but the Pinecrest Patriots are still unbeaten on the season. After blowing out Knightdale to open the schedule, Pinecrest beat Overhills, 33-22. Then things got wild. The Patriots survived a 62-55 shootout with Middle Creek and then, last week, went to overtime before getting a 28-27 win at New Hanover.

Pinecrest now enjoys a week off before facing Richmond on Sept. 27 in the conference opener.

North Moore

The Mustangs had a week to reflect and improve after starting the season 0-3. North Moore lost to Carver, 34-22, in the opener, then dropped a pair on the road, at Southwestern Randolph, 34-7, and at Northwood, 33-13.

This week, North Moore hopes to break through against Southeast Alamance, at home Friday at 7 p.m. The Stallions are 4-0, 2-0 in the Mid-Carolina Conference.

Moore County Week Five High School Schedule: Friday Sept. 20, Pinecrest Patriots (4-0), Bye Friday Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m., North Moore Mustangs (03, 0-1) at Southeast Alamance Stallions (4-0, 2-0) *Mid-Carolina Conference game Friday Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m., Union Pines Vikings (3-1) vs. Lee County Yellow Jackets (3-1) *Sandhills Conference game.

Florida State asks judge to rule on parts of suit against ACC

The school is hoping for a resolution of the dispute without a trial

The Associated Press

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —

Florida State has asked a judge to decide key parts of its lawsuit against the Atlantic Coast Conference without a trial, hoping for a quicker resolution and path to a possible exit from the league.

Florida State requested a partial summary judgment from Circuit Judge John Cooper in a 574-page document filed earlier this week in Leon County, the Tallahassee-based school’s home court.

Florida State sued the ACC in December, challenging the validity of a contract that binds member schools to the conference and each other through media rights and claiming the league’s exit fees and penalties for withdrawal are exorbitant and unfair.

In its original compliant, Florida State said it would cost the school more than half a billion dollars to break the grant of rights and leave the ACC.

“The recently-produced 2016 ESPN agreements expose that the ACC has no rights to FSU home games played after it leaves the conference,” Florida State said in the filing.

Florida State is asking a judge to rule on the exit fees and for a summary judgment on its breach of contract claim, which says the conference broke its bylaws when it sued the school without first getting a majority vote from the entire league membership.

The case is one of four active right now involving the ACC and one of its members.

The ACC has sued Florida State in North Carolina, claiming the school is breaching a contract that it has signed twice in the last decade simply by challenging it.

The judge in Florida has already denied the ACC’s motion to dismiss or pause that case because the conference filed first in North Carolina. The conference appealed the Florida decision in a hearing earlier this week.

Clemson is also suing the ACC in South Carolina, trying to find an affordable potential exit, and the conference has countersued that school in North Carolina, too.

Florida State and the ACC completed court-mandated mediation last month without resolution.

The dispute is tied to the ACC’s long-term deal with ESPN, which runs through 2036 and leaves those schools lagging well behind competitors in the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten when it comes to conference-payout revenue.

“Postponing the resolution of this question only compounds the expense and travesty,” the school said in the latest filing.

The ACC has implemented a bonus system called a success initiative that will reward schools for accomplishments on the field and court, but Florida State and Clemson are look-

Florida State has said the athletic department is in danger of falling behind by as much as $40 million annually by being in the ACC.

ing for more as two of the conference’s highest-profile brands and most successful football programs.

The ACC evenly distributes revenue from its broadcast deal, though new members California, Stanford and SMU have reduced shares and no distribution. That money is used to fund the pool for the success initiative.

GENE GALIN FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North Moore junior Justin Walker (10) closes in on Northwood’s ballcarrier during the Mustangs’ last game. After a week off, North Moore will be looking for its first win on the season this Friday.

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COLIN HACKLEY / AP PHOTO

Florida State coach Mike Norvell, left, is surrounded by his team in the final seconds of the Seminoles’ loss to Boston College on Sept. 2.

SIDELINE REPORT

GOLF

Rahm wins at LIV Chicago to claim season points title, $18M bonus

Bolingbrook, Ill.

Jon Rahm won LIV Golf Chicago by three shots for the $4 million prize, and the victory gave him the season points title along with an $18 million bonus. Rahm played bogey-free on the weekend at Bolingbrook Golf Course to win by three shots over Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia. He was never seriously challenged. But he missed a pair of short birdie putts down the stretch that kept Niemann in the hunt for the season title. Rahm made a 12-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole that all but locked up two titles.

MLB Longtime Red Sox radio broadcaster announces retirement after 42 seasons

New York Boston Red Sox radio broadcaster Joe Castiglione is retiring at the end of the season, his 42nd calling the team’s games. The 77-year- old made the announcement on the WEEI broadcast as the Red Sox batted in the fourth inning against the New York Yankees. Castiglione will remain with the team in an honorary ambassador role. The Red Sox will honor him before their regular-season finale on Sept. 29 against Tampa Bay.

WNBA Wilson becomes first WNBA player to reach 1,000 points in season

Las Vegas A’ja Wilson became the first WNBA player to score 1,000 points in a season when she had 29 in the Las Vegas Aces’ 84-71 win over the Connecticut Sun. Wilson hit a pull-up from the elbow with 2 minutes left in the game to reach the mark. Earlier this week, the Aces’ star broke the single-season scoring record that Jewell Loyd set last year.

NHL

Former NHL enforcer Peat dies 2 weeks after being hit by car Langley, British Columbia Former Washington Capitals enforcer Stephen Peat died from injuries sustained late last month when he was struck by a car while crossing a street. He was 44. Langley police said Peat suffered life-threatening injuries when he was struck by a car while crossing a road at about 4:15 a.m. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Peat had eight goals, two assists and 234 penalty minutes in 130 NHL games. He fought concussion issues and was homeless at times after leaving hockey.

NBA Lakers will honor West this season with uniform band featuring his No. 44

Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers will honor Jerry West this upcoming season with a uniform band featuring his No. 44. West died in June at 86. The purple band on the left shoulder of the Lakers’ uniforms has No. 44 in gold at the center. West played his entire 14-year NBA career for the Lakers and went on to be a coach and an executive with the Lakers, most notably building the 1980s “Showtime” roster.

Reaction to Tagovailoa’s concussion shows NFL has come a long way

Head injuries are treated far more seriously than in past generations

By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press

THE REACTION to Tua

Tagovailoa’s latest concussion shows how the league, its current and former players, fans and the media have evolved.

Tagovailoa sustained his fourth diagnosed concussion in five years in Miami’s 31-10 loss to Buffalo on Thursday. Immediately, the concern centered on Tagovailoa’s longterm health. Nobody was wondering when he will play again. Rather, most folks watching were debating whether Tagovailoa should ever lace up his cleats and step on the field again. Ultimately, Tagovailoa will make that decision. He will see a neurologist this week. Tagovailoa is focused on getting better and gathering information and isn’t thinking about retiring.

“If I’m him, at this point, I’m seriously considering retiring from football,” Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez said on Amazon Prime Video’s broadcast. “If that was my son, I would be like, ‘It might be time.’ This stuff is not what you want to play around with.”

More education about brain injuries has led to strict guidelines that help protect players, sometimes from themselves.

The league and the NFL Players Associations instituted concussion protocols in 2011 when Colt McCoy took a helmet-to-helmet hit in a game and returned without being tested for a concussion.

The protocols have been expanded a few times since. There are independent certified athletic trainers, or ATC spotters, watching in a booth and monitoring players on the field to have someone removed from the game if they see an impact to the head.

All players who undergo any concussion evaluation on game day must have a fol-

Alvarez wins unanimous decision in title defense

Super middleweight champion dominates against Edgar Berlanga

By W.G. Ramirez

The Associated Press

LAS VEGAS — Super middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez outpointed challenger Edgar Berlanga on Saturday night in front of a sold-out crowd at T-Mobile Arena. Making his eighth super middleweight title defense, the 34-year-old Alvarez (61-2-2) dominated much of the fight, using his experience and tenacious pursuit to wear down the 27-year-old challenger, frequently sending 20,312 fans into a frenzy, often chanting “Mexico! Mexico!” or “CANEL-O! CA-NEL-O!”

Berlanga lost for the first time in his career, dropping to 22-1-0.

“I did good. Now what are they going to say? They said I don’t fight young fighters,” Alvarez said. “They always talk, but I’m the best fighter in the world.”

Judges Max DeLuca and Steve Weisfeld scored the fight 118-109, and judge David Sutherland had it 117-110.

Berlanga almost matched Alvarez’s punch output, but the

champion was much more accurate. Alvarez landed 43.3% (201 of 464) of the punches he threw, while Berlanga connected on just 119 of 446 (26.7%). Alvarez also landed 49.1% (133 of 271) of his power punches.

Alvarez, a four-division champion, still hasn’t ended a fight early since scoring a technical knockout of Caleb Plant nearly three years ago, when he became the undisputed champion.

It appeared that drought might end when a sharp left hook to the chin dropped Berlanga in the third round, and further punishment from Alvarez seemed to be taking a toll. Alvarez landed a crisp right uppercut in the fifth and a vicious hook in the sixth.

But Berlanga wouldn’t go away as he stood toe to toe and matched Alvarez’s machismo, refusing to be bullied by the man he’d call “my idol” after the fight. He also got wild in the seventh, missing a wild overhand right that caused him to fall on the canvas, and was warned for a headbutt to Alvarez’s face in the eighth round.

“I got a little angry with his tactics, but I’m Mexican man,” Alvarez said. “It means a lot to fight on this day. It’s an honor to represent my country on this day.”

low-up evaluation conducted the next day by a member of the medical staff. Players have to pass various testing to get cleared to play again.

In 2013, the league agreed to pay more than three-quarters of a billion dollars to settle lawsuits from thousands of former players who developed dementia or other concussion-related health problems they say were caused by on-field violence. The final agreement was uncapped and so far it has cost the NFL $1.3 billion.

It’s too early to determine if or when Tagovailoa will play again. But everyone agrees his health is the main priority.

“The reality is we have more information (now) about the long-term potential effects of having concussions during football,” former Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears said. “I’m not going to lie. We played kinda blindly. We thought a concussion was in five, six days when you passed protocol, you stopped having headaches and you’re not

light-sensitive, you’re back on the field.

“I can imagine these conversations now are being turned into making sure long term that Tua is making a decision based on now but more importantly for his family and his two children. ... With the ability to have more information about the impact long term, it makes this discussion have more detail and more nuance than just saying: ‘Bounce back, Tua. We’ll see you when get back on the field.’” Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in the offseason, won’t be pressured to play. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel made it clear the team won’t put any pressure on Tagovailoa.

“I know the facts are that it’s important that he gets healthy day by day and in that, the actual, the best thing I can do is not try to assess what this even means from a football standpoint,” McDaniel said. “I have to put his health as the primary.”

Alvarez closed as a -1600 favorite at BetMGM Sportsbook, which means a bettor would have had to wager $1,600 to win $100. The IBF removed Alvarez’s title after he chose to fight Berlanga rather than fight its No. 1 challenger, William Scull. In a very uneventful WBA middleweight championship bout, 41-year-old Erislandy Lara (31-3-3) successfully defended his title against Danny Garcia (37-4-0) with a TKO at three minutes of the ninth round thanks to a straight left jab to the face. Garcia’s father and trainer, Angel, requested the stoppage after the round.

“The punches I was landing were hurting him,” said Lara,

the oldest active world champion in boxing. “That punch that ended the fight was a big shot.” After falling behind on the scorecards early during a fight for the interim WBA super middleweight belt, Caleb Plant overcame being knocked down in the fourth, dominated the last four rounds and earned a ninth-round TKO of Trevor McCumby (28-1-0). With time winding down, Plant unleashed a flurry of punches to McCumby’s head that prompted referee Allen Huggins to stop the bout at the 2:59 mark. “I knew I had him hurt and had to go to work,” Plant said. “It was time to get my belt. Now I’m ready to go home and play with my daughter.”

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO

Canelo Alvarez hits Edgar Berlanga in their super middleweight title bout Saturday in Las Vegas.

REBECCA BLACKWELL / AP PHOTO

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel talks to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) as he leaves last Thursday’s game after suffering a concussion during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Stephen “Steve” Richard LaBarre

Nov.3, 1981 – Sept. 12, 2024

We bid farewell with heavy hearts to Stephen “Steve” Richard LaBarre, who passed away Thursday, September 12, 2024.

We remember a man who was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle and a loyal friend to those fortunate enough to call him friend. Steve is survived by his wife Ashley (Brewer) LaBarre, his parents Ronald “Ron” and Maura (Murphy) LaBarre, his children Kyla LaBarre, Lucan LaBarre, Addyson Davis and Isaac LaBarre, his brother Matthew LaBarre, sister in law Catherine LaBarre, and their children Logan and Arden LaBarre.

Steve was born in Spring, TX and always considered himself to be a Texan. However, many moves across the country and France exposed him to different cultures and the opportunity to make friends wherever he landed. His family eventually returned to Texas and Steve graduated from Memorial H.S. in Houston. He had a lifelong love for sports, he played baseball on a Paris, France baseball team (PUC), baseball and football in California, Georgia and Texas.

Upon completing high school Steve enlisted in the U.S. Navy with the promise he would lead an interesting and exciting life as an Operational Intelligence Analyst. He was assigned to the USS Constellation and was part of the first tranche of the Gulf War into the Gulf of Hormuz. He earned the rank of IS2/E-5 before his honorable discharge. Steve continued to serve his country as a DoD Civilian for the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) for the next 15 years.

Steve earned his bachelor’s degree from Campbell University which was an important goal for him.

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hiking and camping…particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville. Steve and Ashley shared a love of sports and outdoor activities with their children, encouraging them to participate and have new experiences.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held at Boles Funeral Home, 425 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines on Friday, September 20 at 2 p.m. A viewing is scheduled for 1-2 p.m. prior to the service. For memorial contributions, the family has suggested TAPS. org or a charity of your choice. Services entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Seven Lakes.

Anthony “Tony” West

June 17, 1954 – Sept. 11, 2024

Anthony J. “Tony” West, 70, of Pinehurst and formerly England, passed peacefully at the FirstHealth Hospice House on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

Born in England, on June 17, 1954, he was the son of the late Thomas and Gwendolyn West. Tony was a quiet man with a calm and easygoing demeanor and had a very special sense of humor. He is survived by his wife, Rita West. He was the father of Chris West and Eleanor “Ellie” Mitchell, spouse Stacey. He was the brother of John West, wife Janet and June Wagstaff, husband Paul. He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Jake, Mischa, Aiden and Bryce. He leaves behind that family’s faithful four-legged companion, Bailey. He was very much loved by his family and friends.

A private ceremony will be held at a later date. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst.

Louise Clifford

May 24, 1923 – Sept. 13, 2024

Louise Clifford, 101, of Southern Pines, passed peacefully on September 13, 2024, at the Coventry at St. Joseph of the Pines.

Born in Hillsboro, TX, on May 24, 1923, she was the daughter of the late James and Myrtle Biggs Washer. Louise grew up working on the family’s ranch in Texas and later in Hugo, OK where she graduated from high school. She went on to attend a beautician school in Dallas, TX before landing a job with Lockhead. That is when she met William “Bill” Clifford. The couple married in January of 1946. Louise retired from Lockhead, Burbank, California, in 1987 and relocated to Raleigh in 1989 before settling in Pinehurst. Louise enjoyed playing golf, earning the coveted Hole-In-One. She continued to play even at the age of 96. She had joined many of the social groups at Pinewild, playing Bunko and cards and getting involved with many social committees. Louise was a feisty woman who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, whether in jest or opinion.

Louise was the wife of the late William Clifford, Sr. She was the mother of Bill Clifford, Jr., wife Denise, and Patti McCarthy, husband Patrick. Louise was the grandmother of Ryan and Tyler Clifford.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 300 Dundee Rd. Pinehurst, Monday, September 16 at 9 am. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

Terinda F. McGuire

Jan. 20, 1969 – Sept. 10, 2024

Terinda F. McGuire of West End passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, in her home at the age of 55. She was born in Moore County on January 20, 1969, to Jesse Odom, III, and Dianne Forsberg. Terinda grew up and attended Moore County Schools. She was a loving daughter, mother, and grandmother. Her grandson, Weston, was her pride and joy. She would often take Weston to help her plant flowers in the garden. Terinda found joy when she could escape to Cape Lookout off of the Shackleford Banks and enjoy God’s creation. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jason Odom, and her stepbrother, Eric Forsberg, along with her grandparents. She is survived by her son, Taylor Mcguire; her grandson, Weston McGuire; her father, Jesse Odom, III; her mother, Dianne Forsberg and her husband, Jay; her sister, Nicole Bird; and two nephews, Elijah and Adrian.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Ives Memorial Baptist Church in Pinebluff. Following the service, family and friends are welcome at the family’s home, 164 Hiddenwood Lane, West End, NC 27376. Please take some sunflower seeds in remembrance of Terinda.

Teresa Darlene Hill

Oct. 16, 1965 – Sept. 15, 2024

Teresa Darlene Hill, 58, of Southern Pines, NC passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024, at her residence with family by her side. She was born October 16, 1965, in Monroe, NC to her parents the late Ronnie and Judy Wood. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 20 years, Ted Hill; children, Cody Hill, Taylor Hill, Bradley Hill and Michael Hill; brothers Greg Wood and Paul Wood; and her beloved dog Harley. Prior to moving to Southern Pines, Teresa lived in Tuscaloosa, AL. She was the co-owner of Hillside Landscape Supplies, a business located in Hope Mills which she owned and operated with her husband. Teresa enjoyed spending time at their home on the coast, boat riding and time by the fire pit. She loved to cook meals for her family. She was a loving wife, mother and sister, and she will be deeply missed by everyone she touched throughout her life. She was a member of Ashley Heights Baptist Church. Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 1- 2 p.m. at Ashley Heights Baptist Church, 10351 Aberdeen Road, Aberdeen, NC 28315. A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Bill Vines of Breezewood Church will begin at 2 p.m Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ashley Heights Baptist Church or a charity of your choosing. Services entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

STATE & NATION

Tech billionaire returns to Earth after first private spacewalk

Jared Isaacman took a five-day trip with SpaceX

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a

spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West.

To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour. Isaacman emerged

only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes. Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star. He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed socalled Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

American activist killed by Israeli fire buried in Turkey

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was shot by a soldier Sept. 6

By Andrew Wilks and Wafaa Shurafa

The Associated Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — A Turkish-American activist who was killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank was laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown in Turkey with thousands lining the streets and anti-Israeli feelings in the country rising from a conflict that threatens to spread across the region.

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-yearold woman from Seattle, was shot dead Sept. 6 by an Israeli soldier during a demonstration against Israeli West Bank settlements, according to an Israeli protester who witnessed the shooting.

Thousands of people lined the streets in the Turkish coastal town of Didim on the Aegean Sea as Eygi was buried in a coffin draped in a Turkish flag, which was taken from her family home.

A portrait of her wearing her graduation gown was propped against the coffin as people paid their respects.

Her body was earlier brought from a hospital to her family home and Didim’s Central Mosque.

Turkey condemned the killing and announced it will conduct an investigation into her death. “We are not going to leave our daughter’s blood on the ground and we demand responsibility and accountability for this murder,” Numan Kurtulmus, the

speaker of Turkey’s parliament, told mourners at the funeral.

On Friday, an autopsy was carried out at Izmir Forensic Medicine Institute. Kurtulmus said the examination showed Eygi was hit by a round that struck her in the back of the head below her left ear.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that Eygi was likely shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli forces.

Her death was condemned by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the United States, Egypt and Qatar push for a cease-fire in the 11-month-long Israel-Hamas war and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks have repeatedly bogged down as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of

making new and unacceptable demands.

The war began when Hamasled fighters killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in an Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. They abducted another 250 people and are still holding around 100 hostages after releasing most of the rest in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November. Around a third of the remaining hostages are believed to be dead.

Israelis are growing increasingly frustrated with the government for not reaching a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis streamed into the streets in Tel Aviv demanding Prime

Mehmet, left, the father of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old TurkishAmerican activist killed by the Israeli military, attends prayers during his daughter’s funeral outside the central mosque of Didim, Turkey, on Saturday.

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bring the hostages back.

At one of the rallies, Anat Angrest, mother of kidnapped soldier Matan Angrest, shared a voice recording from her son while in captivity asking Netanyahu to make a deal. “I want to see my family and friends,” said Matan in the message. Angrest then addressed the head of Israel’s Mossad spy agency.

“Where are you, negotiation team? There is no deal for over eight months, so what are you doing?”

Anger has spiked since the bodies of six hostages were found in a tunnel beneath the southern Gaza city of Rafah earlier this month. The military said the six were killed shortly before Israeli forces were to rescue them.

Many blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, which opinion polls show a majority of Israelis favor. However, the country is also extremely divided and Netanyahu has significant support for his strategy of “total victory” against Hamas, even if a deal for the hostages has to wait. Meanwhile, a campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio drew down and the World Health Organization said about 559,000 under the age of 10 have recovered from their first dose, seven out of every eight children the campaign aimed to vaccinate. The second doses are expected to begin later this month as part of an effort to which the WHO said parties had already agreed.

“As we prepare for the next round in four weeks, we’re hopeful these pauses will hold, because this campaign has clearly shown the world what’s possible when peace is given a chance,” Richard Peeperkorn, WHO’s representative in Gaza and the West Bank, said in a statement on Saturday.

The war has caused vast destruction and displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, often multiple times, and plunged the territory into a severe humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its count but says women and children make up just over half of the dead. Israel says it has killed more than 17,000 militants in the war.

SPACEX VIA AP

This image made from a SpaceX video shows the start of the first private spacewalk led by tech billionaire Jared Isaacman last Thursday.

KHALIL HAMRA / AP PHOTO

HOKE

Driving forward

Hoke senior and quarterback Brandon Saunders rushes as a Fayetteville Seventh-First senior Hector Bautista works to bring him down.

The Bucks fell at home Friday, 21-0, the second straight year that Hoke has been shut out by the Falcons. Turn to Page B1 for more Sports.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

First absentee ballots go out Friday

The State Board of Elections announced last week that ballots would be mailed out soon, days after appeals court judges prevented original ballots containing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name from being sent. North Carolina had been poised to be the first in the nation to send out ballots to voters for the fall elections.

State law directed the first absentee ballots be mailed or transmitted to those already asking no later than 60 days before Election Day, or Sept. 6 this year. But on that day, the state Court of Appeals granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that included his name for president.

Court overturns

Granville sheriff fraud conviction

Hoke grad killed in Waffle House shooting

Burlie Locklear was allegedly shot by a patron of the restaurant

North State Journal staff

LAURINBURG — A Waffle House customer shot and killed an 18-year-old employee late last week, police said. Laurinburg police officers responding to a report of shots fired early Friday found Burlie Dawson Locklear, of Red Springs, suffering from a gunshot wound, police said in a statement. Locklear died at a hospital.

Locklear, a 2024 graduate of Hoke High School, was to be honored at a candlelit vigil Monday, but it was postponed due to poor weather.

Police identified the shooting suspect, Florwer Carlin Lizano, also known as Chulo or Carlos, in a warrant for first-degree murder. Lizano, who is known to frequent Laurinburg, was last seen wearing a dark blue pullover hoodie, blue jeans and white shoes. He drove away in a dark grey Chevrolet.

The investigation found that a customer ordered food and became agitated and ver-

bally abusive toward employees, police said. As the customer walked toward his vehicle after getting his order, police said he turned and fired two shots toward the restaurant, striking Locklear, then fled. Police are actively searching for Lizano, who appears to have previously plead guilty in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm according to a 2017 press release from the South Carolina U.S. District Attorney’s office. He had been sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for that charge. Locklear was a “victim of an outrageous act of violence,” Waf-

fle House said in a statement.

“The death of our Associate, 18-year-old Burlie Dawson Locklear, known simply as ‘Dawson’ to his friends and family, is horrific,” the company statement said. “We offer our sincerest and deepest sympathy to his family and friends.”

Anyone with information about the shooting or Lizano’s whereabouts is asked to contact Lt. J. White with Laurinburg PD at 910-276-3211 or anonymously at scotlandcountycs.com.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Delayed absentee ballots to start mailing

The sending was delayed by litigation over RFK Jr.’s presence on the ballot

By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

RALEIGH — North Carolina’s first absentee ballots for the November election will now be distributed starting Friday, the State Board of Elections announced last week, days after appeals court judges prevented original ballots containing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name from being sent. North Carolina had been poised to be the first in the nation to send out ballots to voters for the fall elections. State law directed the first absentee ballots be mailed or transmitted to those already asking no later than 60 days before Election Day, or Sept. 6 this year. But on that day the state Court of Appeals granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that includ-

A state appeals court has overturned a former county sheriff’s fraud and obstruction convictions from late 2022. A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ex-Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins on Tuesday. Wilkins served as sheriff for 10 years and has been serving time in state prison. The intermediatelevel appeals court said that allegations related to Wilkins falsifying his firearms training requirements didn’t meet the necessary elements for the obstruction and fraud charges. The ruling comes seven months after a subordinate to Wilkins had his obstruction convictions related to the training overturned. The exsheriff pleaded to unrelated crimes last fall. $2.00

ed his name for president. Kennedy had sued the board in late August to remove his name as the We The People party candidate the week after he suspended his campaign and endorsed Republican nom-

inee Donald Trump. The state Supreme Court, in a 4-3 decision last Monday, left the lower-court decision in place. These rulings forced county election officials to reassemble absentee ballot packets, reprint

ballots and recode tabulation machines. Counties had printed more than 2.9 million absentee and in-person ballots before last Friday’s court order, according to the state board. Alabama became the first state to mail ballots, last week. The North Carolina state board on Friday revealed a twotiered release of absentee ballots, which have been requested by over 166,000 voters so far.

First, ballots requested by more than 13,600 military and overseas voters would be sent Sept. 20, which would ensure that the state complies with a federal law requiring ballots be

See ABSENTEE, page A2

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Left to right: Carol Hamilton, Cristo Carter and Cynthia Huntley prepare ballots at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections in Charlotte on Sept. 5.

transmitted to these categories of voters by Sept. 21. Absentee ballots to the other conventional requesters by mail would then follow starting on Sept. 24. The board said in a news release it would give counties more time to ensure their vendors could print enough amended ballots in time and to ensure voter packers are prepared for mailing. Counties must bear the ballot reprinting costs. A board news release said the expense to counties could vary widely, from a few thousand dollars in some smaller counties to $55,100 in Durham County and $300,000 in Wake County, the state’s largest by population. Wake elections board member Gerry Cohen said on social media Friday that his county’s amount included a 20% surcharge from its ballot printer for delays.

Early in-person voting starts statewide Oct. 17. The deadline to request absentee ballots is Oct. 29. A law taking effect this year says mail-in absentee ballots for most voters must be turned in to election officials sooner — by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

Since suspending his campaign, Kennedy has attempted to take his name off ballots in key battleground states like North Carolina where the race between Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris are close.

Kennedy sued the North Carolina board the day after its Democratic majority determined it was too late in the ballot printing process for his name to be removed. A trial judge denied a temporary restraining order sought by Kennedy, but a three-judge Court of Appeals panel granted Kennedy’s request to halt the mailing of ballots that included his name.

In the prevailing opinion backed by four Republican justices, the state Supreme Court said it would be wrong for Kennedy, who submitted a candidacy resignation letter, to remain on the ballot because it could disenfranchise “countless” voters who would otherwise believe he was still a candidate. Dissenting justices wrote in part that the board was justified by state law in retaining Kennedy’s name because it was impractical to make ballot changes so close to the Sept. 6 distribution deadline.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| REP. RICHARD HUDSON

It’s

time to get tough on China

CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland to around 384,000 acres in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty.

COMMUNIST CHINA will stop at nothing to dominate American markets, undermine our national security and take advantage of your tax dollars. This past week, House Republicans took action to combat the threat of China and protect the economic strength of the United States.

The Biden-Harris administration’s reckless Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) fueled inflation with trillions of new government spending and taxpayer-funded subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs). To make matters worse, the Left is allowing CCP-linked entities and Chinese manufacturers to take advantage of these EV tax credits and further dominate America’s EV market, essentially sending billions of tax dollars to China and giving them unlimited access to the U.S. supply chain.

Hardworking Americans are doing their best right now to save as much money as possible, especially as inflation continues to work against them. We need to take action to ensure your tax dollars are not in the hands of enemies that wish to destroy our country. House Republicans prioritized that by passing a bill to block adversaries like China from receiving these EV tax credits while restoring strength in American manufacturing.

In addition, China is actively working against America in an attempt to undermine our national security. In the past several years, CCP-linked entities have increased their purchasing of American farmland from 69,000 acres in 2011 to around 384,000 in 2021, including land near our military bases like Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty — posing a serious risk to our national security.

With Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty being the largest military base in the world, coupled with agriculture being the largest industry

in North Carolina, I will not allow adversaries like China to buy up our farmland and possibly gain access to our national secrets and military bases. That’s why I was proud to join my House Republican colleagues in passing the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act. This legislation would improve oversight of foreign owned land and end any foreign land purchase that could threaten national security. For decades, the federal government has known that CCP- c ontrolled drones present unacceptable national security risks. Just last year, the world watched as a Chinese spy balloon flew over U.S. military installations like Fort Bragg/ Fort Liberty. Yet still, the Biden-Harris administration did not take any necessary steps to remove these drones from our skies and prevent China from attempting to infiltrate or surveil our military bases.

House Republicans stepped up and took action last week by passing the Countering CCP Drones Act. CCP-drones currently make up 90% of consumer drones that are flown and operated in America. This bill will end the drone monopoly the CCP holds in the U.S., protect our skies and begin to enhance our domestic drone market. It is reckless to allow China to be our drone factory and jeopardize our national security, and we must cut our reliance. The threat of Communist China grows by the day and extends to all aspects of our way of life. Now more than ever, the United States must get tough on China. By doing so, we can ensure our nation remains strong, safe, independent, and prosperous.

Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing.

“THE CROWN has made it clear. The climate must be perfect all the year.” – Oscar Hammerstein

Like the fictional Camelot, home of King Arthur and his mighty knights, Kamala Harris’s Democratic presidential campaign has a gauzy, fairy tale aura about it. After Harris’ nearly four years of service under the Biden administration, a magic wand has created a new set of clothes. Harris has repeatedly stated that her values have not changed, there is no daylight between President Joe Biden’s policies and her own. A champion of the Green New Deal, Harris believes this policy is the way forward.

The Green New Deal, a reference to President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, was first discussed by Thomas Friedman in 2007, suggesting a departure from “dirty coal and oil energy” into renewables. U.S. House Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) proposed a resolution to create a Green New Deal in 2019. It failed an initial procedural vote. Even the late Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about this idea. Consider how the Green New Deal would be realized in our communities.

First on the list of 10 tenets is “guaranteeing a job with a familysustaining wage … family and medical leave, vacations and retirement security to all people of the United States.” Fantastic.

Unfortunately, under the BidenHarris administration, the hourly wage is rapidly decreasing due to the influx of undocumented immigrants flooding the labor force. They are willing to work for anything, they are paid in cash and they avoid taxes. This displaces the entry-level job seeker who must report his earnings and pay taxes. Additionally, this person

is denied the benefit of early, on-the-job experience.

McDonald’s cites many successful people, including Harris, as members of the 12.5% of Americans who got their start slinging burgers. Considering the tax-free status of the undocumented worker, one must acknowledge that his “retirement security” is funded by your Social Security contribution.

Second on the Green New Deal list is “high quality health care … affordable, safe and adequate housing … access to clean water, clean air ... healthy and affordable food.” Too good to be true?

The Biden-Harris Health and Human Services Department squandered Americans’ trust trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Each bad decision fostered by the Fauci fraternity — mask up, lock down — was countered by a stimulus check, obscuring the damage caused by those reckless measures. The receipts are in and generations will pay for the damage to our culture.

“Affordable, safe and adequate housing” is touted as the American Dream. Harris has suggested giving a $25,000 subsidy to certain first-time home buyers to get on board the Polar Express. The real American dream would provide housing and services to our veterans, our sick and disabled. On a single night in January 2023, the Department of Housing and Urban Development reported more than 650,000 men, women and children on the street, homeless and hopeless. This is an American disgrace.

Third on the list of 10 principles of the Green New Deal is “providing resources, training and high-quality education … to all people of the United States.” This is fantasy.

We are experiencing a massive shortage of teachers, day care providers and staff

employees. Public schools are captured by the Department of Education and hostage to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. In a controlled burn, this trifecta has managed to achieve the following results: 50% of adults in this country cannot read above eighth grade level, 3 of 4 people on welfare cannot read at all and 50% of unemployed people aged 16-21 are functionally illiterate.

Bolstering these averages is the charter school concept, which bypasses the union control and foregoes some regulatory requirements. The success of the charter model has been rewarded by having their budget reduced by millions in the Biden-Harris 2025 proposal.

Teachers are at the mercy of burdensome regulations, low pay and students socially unprepared for the rigors of institutional learning. Working parents, challenged with financial obligations and inflationary expenses, cannot find or afford quality day care. Some have waited two years to enroll a child in a facility, allowing the parent to return to employment. The real new deal would prioritize our child development initiatives and education beginning at infancy. We must implement a culture where children are valued, educated, socialized and incentivized to take on the challenges of America’s future.

The remaining seven tenets of the Green New Deal aspire to sweep the Earth clean of pollutants, cleanse the cattle and power up the electrical grid. All very aspirational. The price to accomplish these magnificent seven is estimated at $8.1 trillion by the American Action Forum. Sustaining these goals is inestimable.

The script for the Harris-Walz campaign production for the presidency requires you to suspend reality and close the curtain on the disastrous Biden-Harris administration. The cost of the ticket to watch this play is unaffordable.

Connie Lovell lives in Southern Pines.

COLUMN

Hezbollah hit by a wave of exploding pagers, blames Israel; at least 9 dead, thousands injured

The Israeli military declined to comment

By Bassem Mroue

The Associated Press

BEIRUT — Pagers used by hundreds of members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded near simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday, killing at least nine people – including an 8-year-old girl -- and wounding several thousand, officials said. Hezbollah and the Lebanese government blamed Israel for what appeared to be a sophisticated, remote attack.

Among those wounded was Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon. The mysterious explosions came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza.

The pagers that blew up had apparently been acquired by Hezbollah after the group’s leader ordered members in February to stop using cellphones, warning they could be tracked by Israeli intelligence. A Hezbollah official told The Associated Press the pagers were a new brand, but declined to say how long they had been in use.

At about 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, as people shopped for groceries, sat

in cafes or drove cars and motorcycles in the afternoon traffic, the pagers in their hands or pockets started heating up and then exploding — leaving blood-splattered scenes and panicking bystanders.

It appeared that many of those hit were members of Hezbollah, but it was not immediately clear if others also carried the pagers.

The blasts were mainly in areas where the group has a strong presence, particularly a southern Beirut suburb and in the Beqaa region of eastern Lebanon, as well as in Damascus, according to Lebanese se -

curity officials and a Hezbollah official. The Hezbollah official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

The AP reached out to the Israeli military, which declined to comment. The explosions came hours after Israel’s internal security agency said it had foiled an attempt by Hezbollah to kill a former senior Israeli security official using a planted explosive device that could be remotely detonated.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the United States “was not aware of this incident in advance” and

was not involved. “At this point, we’re gathering information,” he said.

Experts said the pager explosions pointed to a long-planned operation, possibly carried out by infiltrating the supply chain and rigging the devices with explosives before they were delivered to Lebanon.

Whatever the means, it targeted an extraordinary breadth of people with hundreds of small explosions — all at once, wherever the pager carrier happened to be — that left some maimed.

One video circulating online showed a man picking through produce at a grocery store when the bag he was carrying at his hip explodes, sending him sprawling to the ground and bystanders running.

At overwhelmed hospitals, the wounded were rushed in on stretchers, some with missing hands, faces partly blown away or gaping holes at their hips and legs near the pocket area, according to AP photographers. On a main road in central Beirut, a car door was splattered with blood and the windshield cracked.

Lebanon’s health minister, Firas Abiad, said to Qatar’s Al Jazeera network at least nine people were killed, including an 8-year-old girl, and some 2,750 were wounded — 200 of them critically — by the explosions. Most had injuries in the face, hand, or around the abdomen.

Hezbollah said in a statement

4 found dead in eastern Romania rainstorms

Hundreds have been stranded in the eastern part of the country

By Stephen McGrath and Andreea Alexandru

The Associated Press

BUCHAREST, Romania —

Four people in eastern Romania have been found dead after torrential storms dumped unprecedented rain, leaving hundreds stranded in flooded areas, emergency authorities said Saturday.

Rescue services scrambled to save people in the hard-hit eastern counties of Galati and Vaslui. The bodies of three older women and one man were found in four localities, the Department for Emergency Situations said.

Emergency authorities released video footage showing teams of rescuers evacuating people using small lifeboats through muddy waters and car-

rying some older people to safety.

Some of the most significant flood damage was concentrated in Galati where 5,000 households were affected. A Black Hawk helicopter was also deployed there to help with the search and rescue efforts.

The storms battered 19 localities in eight counties in Romania, with strong winds downing dozens of trees that damaged cars and blocked roads and traffic. Authorities sent text message alerts to residents to warn them of adverse weather as emergency services rushed to remove floodwaters from homes.

By 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, more than 250 people had been evacuated with the help of 700 interior ministry personnel deployed to affected communities, authorities said.

“What we are trying to do right now is save as many lives as possible,” Romanian Environment Minister Mircea

Fechet, who was on his way to Galati to assess the situation, told The Associated Press.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis offered his condolences to the victims’ bereaved families, writing on Facebook: “We must continue to strengthen our capacity to anticipate extreme weather phenomena.”

“Severe floods that have affected a large part of the country have led to loss of lives and significant damage,” Iohannis said. “We are again dealing with the effects of climate change, which are increasingly present throughout the European continent, with dramatic consequences on people.”

The stormy weather impacted several central European nations. In Czechia, river waters reached dangerously high levels in dozens of areas, prompting the authorities to evacuate hundreds of people, including from a hospital in the second-largest city of Brno, to escape raging floods.

A 54-year-old man was missing, police said, after he fell in a flooded stream in the southeast of the country, while another three people were swept away in a car by a river in the northeast.

By Saturday evening, Czech authorities had declared the highest flood warnings in more than 70 areas across the country and said that thousands more people should be prepared to be evacuated as the rains continued to slam down. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute said such “extreme floods” in those regions only occur about once a century.

In neighboring Austria, authorities declared 24 villages in the northeast Lower Austria province “disaster zones” on Saturday afternoon and began evacuating residents from those areas.

Heavy rain also hit Moldova on Saturday, where emergency workers pumped floodwater

that two of its members were among those killed. One of them was Mahdi Ammar, the son of a Hezbollah member in parliament, and two sons of other prominent figures were wounded, said the Hezbollah official who spoke anonymously.

“We hold the Israeli enemy fully responsible for this criminal aggression that also targeted civilians,” Hezbollah said, adding that Israel will “for sure get its just punishment.” Iranian state-run IRNA news agency said that the country’s ambassador, Mojtaba Amani, was superficially wounded by an exploding pager and was being treated at a hospital.

Previously, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had warned the group’s members not to carry cellphones, saying they could be used by Israel to track their movements and carry out targeted strikes.

Sean Moorhouse, a former British Army officer and explosive ordnance disposal expert, said videos of the blasts suggested a small explosive charge – as small as a pencil eraser –had been placed into the devices. They would have had to have been rigged prior to delivery.

“It seems very likely that all of these encrypted pagers were modified prior to Hezbollah purchasing them, which implies a very successful Mossad operation.” he said, referring to Israel’s foreign intelligence agency.

from dozens of peoples’ homes in several localities, and 13 localities in three districts suffered partial electricity outages, authorities said.

In Poland, dozens of people were evacuated as a precautionary measure on Saturday from two villages near the town of Nysa, in the Nysa River basin, after meteorologists warned of unprecedented rainfall. Some farms were flooded. Water levels continued to rise Saturday, and some roads and streets in the cities of Krakow and Katowice were flooded, and water penetrated the basement of a hospital in Krakow, though firefighters quickly pumped it out. Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that “the worst is yet to come.” Polish authorities appealed to residents on Friday to stock up on food and to prepare for power outages by charging power banks.

The weather change arrived following a hot start to September in the region, including in Romania. Scientists have documented Earth’s hottest summer, breaking a record set just a year ago.

HUSSEIN MALLA / AP PHOTO

Civil Defense first-responders carry a wounded man whose handheld pager exploded at al-Zahraa hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

HOKE SPORTS

Football, volleyball suffer losses

Boys’ soccer splits a pair

North State Journal staff

THE HOKE COUNTY volleyball team suffered its first losing streak of the year after a 9-1 start, while football and soccer also had mixed results. Here’s a look back and a look forward at Bucks sports.

Football

The Bucks fell at home on Friday night, losing to Fayetteville’ Seventh-First, 21-0. It’s the second straight year that Hoke has been shut out by the Falcons.

Hoke quarterback Brandon Saunders was 14-of-28 passing for 172 yards. Junior Jordan Mitchell had seven catches for 51 yards, while junior Darius Breeden had two for 70. Breeden also had 20 yards rushing and 19 on kick returns. A third junior, Chad Royster, added 4 catches for 48 yards.

The Bucks defense was led by senior Darrien Frazier and ju-

It was salute to the military night as Hoke County took the field for last Friday’s football game against Fayetteville SeventyFirst.

nior Josh Ferrell, who each recorded double-digit tackle totals. Senior Jalyn Wills had two tackles for loss in the game.

The Bucks are now 1-3 on the season and will open conference play on the road this week, traveling to Scotland for a 7:30 p.m. Friday kickoff. The Scots are also 1-3 on the year and coming off a loss to Jack Britt last Friday. Hoke also fell to Jack Britt in the season opener.

Boys’ soccer

The Bucks’ soccer team split a pair of 2-1 decisions last week. Hoke County fell to Lee County at home by that score, then the next day, traveled to Pine Forest to get a road win out of conference.

Junior Pedro Ramos-Alejandro got assists in both games. He helped on a score by Jose Vazquez de la Cruz for the only goal in the Lee County game. Then, he and Mando Zuniga both had assists as Carson Hewitt and Duglas Mejia provided the scoring offense in the Pine Forest win.

The Bucks are now 7-3-1, 1-1 in the Sandhills. They play a pair of conference foes this week. First Hoke has Southern Lee at home on Wednesday, then travels to Union Pines next Tuesday as it end a stretch with just one game in 10 days.

Volleyball

So, this is a losing streak. For the first time this season, Hoke County lost back-to-back games as they fell on the road to Union Pines last week, then dropped a home match to Pinecrest.

Union Pines got a 3-0 victory, while Pinecrest took a 3-1 decision. The losses drop the Bucks to 9-3 on the year, 3-3 in the Sandhills Conference.

This week, the Bucks have three chances to get on track, with a non-conference game at South View on Wednesday, followed by a home league match with Scotland the following day. Then, Hoke plays next Monday and Tuesday, Hoke hosts Seventh-First out of conference, then heads to Lee County for a Sandhills clash.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Abigail Watts

Hoke

Abigail Watts is a senior on the Hoke County volleyball team.

The Bucks are 9-3 on the season and have already posted more victories than all of last year. This past week, Hoke dropped a pair of matches, but Watts still played a big role on the court. In a loss to Pinecrest at home, she had a team-high 11 kills and 20 receptions. She also had 11 digs, which was third-most for the Bucks that day, and she added three service aces.

On the year, Watts is the team leader in kills, one off the team lead in aces and third in digs and blocks.

Buescher plays playoff spoiler at Watkins Glen in chaotic Cup race

The top five finishers were all nonplayoff drivers

By Dan Gelston The Associated Press

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. —

Chris Buescher won Sunday at Watkins Glen International, leading a string of five nonplayoff drivers to the finish in a NASCAR Cup race marred by late wrecks, shredded tires, and busted parts among the championship contenders.

The chaos on the 2.45-mile road course at The Glen — in the playoffs for the first time before it returns to an August date next year — shook up the playoff standings heading into the cutoff race.

Buescher held off Shane van Gisbergen in the thrilling

two final overtime laps to play spoiler and win for the first time this season for RFK Racing. The 31-year-old Texan has six career victories. Chase Briscoe, who entered 16th in the playoff standings and 21 points behind the cutline, was sixth and the highest-finishing playoff driver in the field in the second race in the Cup Series’ postseason.

Four drivers will be cut from the field Saturday night at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Briscoe shot to 11th in the standings, six points above the cutline. Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Martin Truex Jr., and Harrison Burton are the bottom four drivers.

Austin Cindric was 10th, only the second playoff driver in the top 10. Want to find the contenders? Look all the

way to the bottom of the race results. Ten playoff drivers were dumped in the bottom 21 finishers.

The race was bedlam for the contenders from the start when a wreck on the opening lap knocked out Ryan Blaney and also involved fellow playoff drivers and Joe Gibbs Racing teammates Hamlin and Christopher Bell.

At least 11 playoff drivers ran into some sort of issue, including a rough scene late in the race where Keselowski and William Byron crashed battling for position. Byron’s Chevrolet landed on top of Keselowski’s Ford with six laps left in the scheduled 90-lap race.

There was no way this thriller was going to end in regulation.

One by one, playoff drivers

took a beating on the track — and in the standings.

Joey Logano raced his way into the second round of the playoffs by winning the opener last week at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He finished 15th There was no automatic qualifier at The Glen into the second round.

Blaney crashes early

Blaney, the 2023 Cup champion, had his race ended on the opening lap after he was collected in a wreck that also involved playoff drivers Hamlin and Bell. Blaney entered 45 points above the cutline.

NASCAR rules dictated the No. 12 Ford must be towed to the garage, while Blaney argued his team should have

“I don’t know what is going on or why they won’t give us a shot to work on it but I don’t agree with.”

Ryan Blaney, after NASCAR wouldn’t allow his team to work on the car on pit road

been allowed to try and repair the car on pit road, giving him a shot at staying in the race.

“They didn’t give us a chance to fix it,” Blaney said. “How are they going to dictate if we are done or not? They have no idea of the damage. They said we were done because I couldn’t drive it back to the pit box, but if you have four flats, you get towed back to the pit box. You can’t drive that back. I don’t know what is going on or why they won’t give us a shot to work on it but I don’t agree with (it).” NASCAR rules say cars can remain in the race for mechanical issues but not damage.

County, volleyball

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

LAUREN PETRACCA / AP PHOTO

Chris Buescher (17) competes in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Watkins Glen, New York.

SIDELINE REPORT

GOLF

Rahm wins at LIV Chicago to claim season points title, $18M bonus

Bolingbrook, Ill. Jon Rahm won LIV Golf Chicago by three shots for the $4 million prize, and the victory gave him the season points title along with an $18 million bonus. Rahm played bogey-free on the weekend at Bolingbrook Golf Course to win by three shots over Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia. He was never seriously challenged. But he missed a pair of short birdie putts down the stretch that kept Niemann in the hunt for the season title. Rahm made a 12-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole that all but locked up two titles.

MLB Longtime Red Sox radio broadcaster announces retirement after 42 seasons

New York Boston Red Sox radio broadcaster Joe Castiglione is retiring at the end of the season, his 42nd calling the team’s games. The 77-year- old made the announcement on the WEEI broadcast as the Red Sox batted in the fourth inning against the New York Yankees. Castiglione will remain with the team in an honorary ambassador role. The Red Sox will honor him before their regular-season finale on Sept. 29 against Tampa Bay.

WNBA Wilson becomes first WNBA player to reach 1,000 points in season

Las Vegas A’ja Wilson became the first WNBA player to score 1,000 points in a season when she had 29 in the Las Vegas Aces’ 84-71 win over the Connecticut Sun. Wilson hit a pull-up from the elbow with 2 minutes left in the game to reach the mark. Earlier this week, the Aces’ star broke the single-season scoring record that Jewell Loyd set last year.

NHL

Former NHL enforcer Peat dies 2 weeks after being hit by car Langley, British Columbia Former Washington Capitals enforcer Stephen Peat died from injuries sustained late last month when he was struck by a car while crossing a street. He was 44. Langley police said Peat suffered life-threatening injuries when he was struck by a car while crossing a road at about 4:15 a.m. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Peat had eight goals, two assists and 234 penalty minutes in 130 NHL games. He fought concussion issues and was homeless at times after leaving hockey.

NBA Lakers will honor West this season with uniform band featuring his No. 44

Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers will honor Jerry West this upcoming season with a uniform band featuring his No. 44. West died in June at 86. The purple band on the left shoulder of the Lakers’ uniforms has No. 44 in gold at the center. West played his entire 14-year NBA career for the Lakers and went on to be a coach and an executive with the Lakers, most notably building the 1980s “Showtime” roster.

Reaction to Tagovailoa’s concussion shows NFL has come a long way

Head injuries are treated far more seriously than in past generations

By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press

THE REACTION to Tua

Tagovailoa’s latest concussion shows how the league, its current and former players, fans and the media have evolved.

Tagovailoa sustained his fourth diagnosed concussion in five years in Miami’s 31-10 loss to Buffalo on Thursday. Immediately, the concern centered on Tagovailoa’s longterm health. Nobody was wondering when he will play again. Rather, most folks watching were debating whether Tagovailoa should ever lace up his cleats and step on the field again. Ultimately, Tagovailoa will make that decision. He will see a neurologist this week. Tagovailoa is focused on getting better and gathering information and isn’t thinking about retiring.

“If I’m him, at this point, I’m seriously considering retiring from football,” Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez said on Amazon Prime Video’s broadcast. “If that was my son, I would be like, ‘It might be time.’ This stuff is not what you want to play around with.”

More education about brain injuries has led to strict guidelines that help protect players, sometimes from themselves.

The league and the NFL Players Associations instituted concussion protocols in 2011 when Colt McCoy took a helmet-to-helmet hit in a game and returned without being tested for a concussion.

The protocols have been expanded a few times since. There are independent certified athletic trainers, or ATC spotters, watching in a booth and monitoring players on the field to have someone removed from the game if they see an impact to the head.

All players who undergo any concussion evaluation on game day must have a fol-

Alvarez wins unanimous decision in title defense

Super middleweight champion dominates against Edgar Berlanga

By W.G. Ramirez

The Associated Press

LAS VEGAS — Super middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez outpointed challenger Edgar Berlanga on Saturday night in front of a sold-out crowd at T-Mobile Arena. Making his eighth super middleweight title defense, the 34-year-old Alvarez (61-2-2) dominated much of the fight, using his experience and tenacious pursuit to wear down the 27-year-old challenger, frequently sending 20,312 fans into a frenzy, often chanting “Mexico! Mexico!” or “CANEL-O! CA-NEL-O!”

Berlanga lost for the first time in his career, dropping to 22-1-0.

“I did good. Now what are they going to say? They said I don’t fight young fighters,” Alvarez said. “They always talk, but I’m the best fighter in the world.”

Judges Max DeLuca and Steve Weisfeld scored the fight 118-109, and judge David Sutherland had it 117-110.

Berlanga almost matched Alvarez’s punch output, but the

champion was much more accurate. Alvarez landed 43.3% (201 of 464) of the punches he threw, while Berlanga connected on just 119 of 446 (26.7%). Alvarez also landed 49.1% (133 of 271) of his power punches.

Alvarez, a four-division champion, still hasn’t ended a fight early since scoring a technical knockout of Caleb Plant nearly three years ago, when he became the undisputed champion.

It appeared that drought might end when a sharp left hook to the chin dropped Berlanga in the third round, and further punishment from Alvarez seemed to be taking a toll. Alvarez landed a crisp right uppercut in the fifth and a vicious hook in the sixth.

But Berlanga wouldn’t go away as he stood toe to toe and matched Alvarez’s machismo, refusing to be bullied by the man he’d call “my idol” after the fight. He also got wild in the seventh, missing a wild overhand right that caused him to fall on the canvas, and was warned for a headbutt to Alvarez’s face in the eighth round.

“I got a little angry with his tactics, but I’m Mexican man,” Alvarez said. “It means a lot to fight on this day. It’s an honor to represent my country on this day.”

low-up evaluation conducted the next day by a member of the medical staff. Players have to pass various testing to get cleared to play again.

In 2013, the league agreed to pay more than three-quarters of a billion dollars to settle lawsuits from thousands of former players who developed dementia or other concussion-related health problems they say were caused by on-field violence. The final agreement was uncapped and so far it has cost the NFL $1.3 billion.

It’s too early to determine if or when Tagovailoa will play again. But everyone agrees his health is the main priority.

“The reality is we have more information (now) about the long-term potential effects of having concussions during football,” former Cowboys defensive end Marcus Spears said. “I’m not going to lie. We played kinda blindly. We thought a concussion was in five, six days when you passed protocol, you stopped having headaches and you’re not

light-sensitive, you’re back on the field.

“I can imagine these conversations now are being turned into making sure long term that Tua is making a decision based on now but more importantly for his family and his two children. ... With the ability to have more information about the impact long term, it makes this discussion have more detail and more nuance than just saying: ‘Bounce back, Tua. We’ll see you when get back on the field.’”

Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in the offseason, won’t be pressured to play. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel made it clear the team won’t put any pressure on Tagovailoa.

“I know the facts are that it’s important that he gets healthy day by day and in that, the actual, the best thing I can do is not try to assess what this even means from a football standpoint,” McDaniel said. “I have to put his health as the primary.”

Alvarez closed as a -1600 favorite at BetMGM Sportsbook, which means a bettor would have had to wager $1,600 to win $100. The IBF removed Alvarez’s title after he chose to fight Berlanga rather than fight its No. 1 challenger, William Scull. In a very uneventful WBA middleweight championship bout, 41-year-old Erislandy Lara (31-3-3) successfully defended his title against Danny Garcia (37-4-0) with a TKO at three minutes of the ninth round thanks to a straight left jab to the face. Garcia’s father and trainer, Angel, requested the stoppage after the round.

“The punches I was landing were hurting him,” said Lara,

the oldest active world champion in boxing. “That punch that ended the fight was a big shot.” After falling behind on the scorecards early during a fight for the interim WBA super middleweight belt, Caleb Plant overcame being knocked down in the fourth, dominated the last four rounds and earned a ninth-round TKO of Trevor McCumby (28-1-0). With time winding down, Plant unleashed a flurry of punches to McCumby’s head that prompted referee Allen Huggins to stop the bout at the 2:59 mark. “I knew I had him hurt and had to go to work,” Plant said. “It was time to get my belt. Now I’m ready to go home and play with my daughter.”

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO

Canelo Alvarez hits Edgar Berlanga in their super middleweight title bout Saturday in Las Vegas.

REBECCA BLACKWELL / AP PHOTO

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel talks to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) as he leaves last Thursday’s game after suffering a concussion during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Charles McNair

Sept. 23, 1950 –Sept. 10, 2024

Mr. Charles McNair age, 73 went home to rest with his Heavenly Father on September 10, 2024.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Faye McNair; children: Tysa McNair, Angela McNair; granddaughter, Breyona McNair, along with a host of other family and friends. Charles will be greatly missed.

The Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Cape Fear Conference B Headquarters.

Roy Lee Tompkins, Jr.

July 23, 1952 – Sept. 12, 2024

Roy Lee Tompkins Jr. was born July 23, 1952, to Roy and Deodes Tompkins, in Charlotte, NC. Roy went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

Roy is survived by his wife of 25 years, Joy Tompkins; a son, Taylor Tompkins; brothers, Darrell (Michelle) Tompkins, Doug (Jennifer) Tompkins, and Mark Tompkins; a sister, Kathy Tompkins; an adopted sister, Sherrie Alcon; a nephew, Jacob Tompkins; a niece, Chloe Tompkins; and some “damn good friends.”

Roy was an avid hunter, fisherman and motorcyclist. Roy retired from the City of Raeford as a mechanic. After retirement, he found his greatest accomplishment in life as being a father to his son, at which he was great.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Trever Hackman, Brain K. and the staff at UNC Cancer Center for the wonderful care that they have provided for him over the years. They would also like to thank the wonderful people at Liberty Hospice for their care during this time.

A visitation will be held at Crumpler Funeral Home on Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 1-2 p.m.

A service will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Toby Neal officiating. Burial will be in the Parkton Cemetery, Parkton, NC.

Tito Jackson, member of Jackson 5, dies at 70

The entertainer was the third oldest of nine Jackson children

By Brian P.D. Hannon The Associated Press

TITO JACKSON, one of the brothers who made up the beloved pop group the Jackson 5, has died. He was 70.

Jackson was the third of nine children, including global superstars Michael and Janet, and was part of a music-making family whose songs have sold hundreds of millions of copies.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” his sons TJ, Taj and Taryll Jackson said in a statement posted on Instagram late Sunday.

The Jackson 5, among the last of the major groups launched through Berry Gordy’s Motown empire, included teenage and pre-teen brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and lead singer Michael. Gordy signed them up in the late 1960s, when Motown’s power was slipping and tastes were shifting from the slick pop-soul of Motown’s prime to the funkier sounds of Sly and the Family Stone.

“I Want You Back,” the group’s breakthrough hit, was openly modeled on Sly and the Family Stone and topped the charts in 1969. The Jacksons followed with three more No. 1 songs, “ABC,” “The Love You Save” and “I’ll Be There,” and also hit the top 5 with “Mama’s Pearl” and “Never Can Say Goodbye.”

Some called their music “bubblegum soul.”

By mid-decade, the Jackson 5’s appeal was fading and the group, except Jermaine, moved to Epic and renamed themselves the Jacksons. Their latter hits included “Enjoy Yourself,” “Lovely One” and “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground).” Michael Jackson

became a multi-platinum solo artist in the 1980s and his collaborations with his brothers became rare after the 1984 album “Victory.”

The Jackson 5 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, introduced at the ceremony by longtime friend Diana Ross.

Among reactions to the death was a message from the Broadway production “MJ,” about Michael Jackson and his family. On X, the show called Tito Jackson “an icon of the music industry who has inspired generations of singers, musicians and performers across the world. None more so than our MJ family.” It included a photo of Tito Jackson attending the show.

Raised in Gary, Indiana, the Jackson 5 had been formed under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, a steelworker and guitar player. Michael and sibling La Toya would accuse him of abusive behavior.

Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson was the least-heard member of the group, working as a background singer who played guitar.

Michael Jackson died at age 50 on June 25, 2009. Speaking to The Associated Press in December 2009, Tito Jackson said that his younger brother’s death pulled the family closer together.

“I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss,” he said, adding he would personally never “be at peace with it.”

“There’s still moments when I just can’t believe it. So I think that’s never going to go away,” he said.

In 2014, Jackson said that he and his brothers still felt Michael Jackson’s absence in their shows, which continued with international tours.

“I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed,” Jackson said, noting that his brother’s spirit “is with us when we are performing. It gives us a lot of positive energy and puts a lot of smiles on our faces.”

Days before his death, Jackson posted a message on his Facebook page from Germany on Sept. 11, where he visited a memorial to Michael Jackson with his brothers.

“Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I, visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson. We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive,” Jackson wrote.

Jackson was the last of the nine siblings to release a solo project with his 2016 debut, “Tito Time.” He released a song in 2017, “One Way Street,” and told the AP in 2019 that he was working on a sophomore album.

Jackson said he purposely held back from pursuing a solo career because he wanted to focus on raising his three sons, who formed their own music group, 3T. Jackson’s website offers a link to a single featuring 3T and Stevie Wonder titled, “Love One Another.”

Earlier this year, Jackson settled in a house in Claremore, Oklahoma near Tulsa, Tulsa World reported. “I always wanted to get away from the West Coast and experience living somewhere with new people and new culture,” the paper quoted Jackson as saying. “California is ... different.” Jackson had ties to the area: His uncle, Samuel Jackson, had opened Jackson Undertaking Co. in Tulsa in 1917, and when it burned down during the Tulsa Race Massacr e in 1921, Samuel Jackson was hired by a white-owned funeral home to embalm the bodies of Black residents who were killed, the paper reported. He later rebuilt his own company.

Jackson also is survived by his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon and Jackie, his sisters Janet, Rebbie and La Toya, and their mother, Katherine. Their father died in 2018.

Jackson’s death was first reported by Entertainment Tonight.

Tito Jackson poses for a portrait in Los Angeles in July 2019.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

MARK VON HOLDEN / INVISION / AP

STATE & NATION

Tech billionaire returns to Earth after first private spacewalk

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a

spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West.

To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour. Isaacman emerged

only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes. Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star. He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed socalled Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

American activist killed by Israeli fire buried in Turkey

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi was shot by a soldier Sept. 6

By Andrew Wilks and Wafaa Shurafa

The Associated Press

ISTANBUL, Turkey — A Turkish-American activist who was killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank was laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown in Turkey with thousands lining the streets and anti-Israeli feelings in the country rising from a conflict that threatens to spread across the region.

Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-yearold woman from Seattle, was shot dead Sept. 6 by an Israeli soldier during a demonstration against Israeli West Bank settlements, according to an Israeli protester who witnessed the shooting.

Thousands of people lined the streets in the Turkish coastal town of Didim on the Aegean Sea as Eygi was buried in a coffin draped in a Turkish flag, which was taken from her family home.

A portrait of her wearing her graduation gown was propped against the coffin as people paid their respects.

Her body was earlier brought from a hospital to her family home and Didim’s Central Mosque.

Turkey condemned the killing and announced it will conduct an investigation into her death. “We are not going to leave our daughter’s blood on the ground and we demand responsibility and accountability for this murder,” Numan Kurtulmus, the

speaker of Turkey’s parliament, told mourners at the funeral.

On Friday, an autopsy was carried out at Izmir Forensic Medicine Institute. Kurtulmus said the examination showed Eygi was hit by a round that struck her in the back of the head below her left ear.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that Eygi was likely shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli forces.

Her death was condemned by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the United States, Egypt and Qatar push for a cease-fire in the 11-month-long Israel-Hamas war and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks have repeatedly bogged down as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of

making new and unacceptable demands.

The war began when Hamasled fighters killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in an Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. They abducted another 250 people and are still holding around 100 hostages after releasing most of the rest in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel during a weeklong cease-fire in November. Around a third of the remaining hostages are believed to be dead.

Israelis are growing increasingly frustrated with the government for not reaching a ceasefire with Hamas to bring the remaining captives home. On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis streamed into the streets in Tel Aviv demanding Prime

Mehmet, left, the father of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old TurkishAmerican activist killed by the Israeli military, attends prayers during his daughter’s funeral outside the central mosque of Didim, Turkey, on Saturday.

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bring the hostages back.

At one of the rallies, Anat Angrest, mother of kidnapped soldier Matan Angrest, shared a voice recording from her son while in captivity asking Netanyahu to make a deal. “I want to see my family and friends,” said Matan in the message. Angrest then addressed the head of Israel’s Mossad spy agency.

“Where are you, negotiation team? There is no deal for over eight months, so what are you doing?”

Anger has spiked since the bodies of six hostages were found in a tunnel beneath the southern Gaza city of Rafah earlier this month. The military said the six were killed shortly before Israeli forces were to rescue them.

Many blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, which opinion polls show a majority of Israelis favor. However, the country is also extremely divided and Netanyahu has significant support for his strategy of “total victory” against Hamas, even if a deal for the hostages has to wait. Meanwhile, a campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio drew down and the World Health Organization said about 559,000 under the age of 10 have recovered from their first dose, seven out of every eight children the campaign aimed to vaccinate. The second doses are expected to begin later this month as part of an effort to which the WHO said parties had already agreed.

“As we prepare for the next round in four weeks, we’re hopeful these pauses will hold, because this campaign has clearly shown the world what’s possible when peace is given a chance,” Richard Peeperkorn, WHO’s representative in Gaza and the West Bank, said in a statement on Saturday.

The war has caused vast destruction and displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, often multiple times, and plunged the territory into a severe humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its count but says women and children make up just over half of the dead. Israel says it has killed more than 17,000 militants in the war.

SPACEX VIA AP

This image made from a SpaceX video shows the start of the first private spacewalk led by tech billionaire Jared Isaacman last Thursday.

Jared Isaacman took a five-day trip with SpaceX

KHALIL HAMRA / AP PHOTO