North State Journal Vol. 6, Issue 44

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 44 | WWW.NSJONLINE.COM | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021

Blast into 2022 Arianespace’s Ariane 5 rocket with NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope onboard, lifts off Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021, at Europe’s Spaceport, the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana.

The world’s largest and most powerful space telescope has blasted off on a high-stakes quest to behold light from the first stars and galaxies. NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope rocketed away Saturday from French Guiana in South America.

2022 Major events in NC When the calendar flips to 2022, there will be a lot happening across the state, from festivals to sporting events and more.

Blowing Rock Winterfest January 27–30, 2022 Blowing Rock The winter festival has been a tradition for over 20 years and features a polar bear plunge, chili cook off, ice carving, and more.

Mike Krzyzewski’s final game at Cameron Indoor Stadium March 5, 2022 Durham Coach K’s final game has drawn unprecedented ticket prices for those who want to be in the building for the legendary leader’s last time as head coach after 42 seasons at the helm of the Blue Devils.

ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE VIA AP

ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament

Democrats must defy history to win 2022 Senate race

March 2–6, 2022 Greensboro The Greensboro Coliseum plays host to the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament for the 22nd time in the past 23 years.

North Carolina Azaelea Festival April 6–10, 2022 Wilmington Spring in Wilmington means the return of the annual celebration of the Azaelea. Each year, colorful parades, home tours, and nationally known music build to the crowning the Azaelea Queen.

By Matt Mercer North State Journal

MerleFest April 30–May 1, 2022 Wilkesboro Founded in 1988 as a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College, MerleFest celebrates “roots” music — traditional Appalachian music and, as Doc Watson says, “whatever we feel like playing that day.”

Coca-Cola 600 May 29, 2022 Concord The stars of NASCAR make their Memorial Day return to the Charlotte Motor Speedway in the series’ longest race of the season.

NC Black Bear Festival June 4-5, 2022 Plymouth The largest black bears on the planet are found in eastern North Carolina and they’ll be celebrated at the 7th Annual state Black Bear Festival. The Albemarle-Pamlico peninsula is also home to the highest concentration of black bears in the world.

Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament June 10–19, 2022 Morehead City Last year, over 750 boats entered Big Rock to compete, the most since 1999. Interest in the tournament has grown and even brought Michael Jordan out for a few days on the water.

Winston-Salem Open August 20-27, 2022 Winston-Salem The Wake Forest University Tennis Complex plays host to the only major professional tennis tournament in the state in August.

The yearly event is the last ATP World Tour 250 event prior to the US Open in September and more than 40 of the world’s top 80 players compete for the trophy.

McConnell openly courts Manchin to leave Democrats, join GOP

By Kevin Freking The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Mitch McConnell is done with subtleties. The Senate Republican leader is putting his party’s courtship of Joe Manchin on full public display after the West Virginia Democrat’s fractious split with the White House over the president’s big social and environmental spending package.

McConnell says Manchin “feels like a man alone” and if he were to switch parties, “he would be joining a lot of folks who have similar views on a whole range of issues.”

Whether Manchin is open to McConnell’s appeal — he has consistently said he still sees himself as a Democrat — is uncertain. But it is clear that if he were to switch it would fundamentally alter the balance of power in Washington as well as seriously threaten Joe Biden’s legislative prospects for the rest of his presidency.

McConnell dangled the prospect of Manchin retaining his prized Energy Committee chairmanship during an interview last week and played up the West Virginian’s growing distance from Democrats in his opposition to Biden’s package.

A flip by Manchin would give Republicans control of the Senate and effectively end any chance of Democrats being able

to get legislation or nominations through on party-line votes.

The rift escalated after Manchin said one week ago that he couldn’t vote for the social spending package that Democrats have pitched as their top domestic priority going into next year’s elections.

“I cannot vote to continue with this piece of legislation. I just can’t. I’ve tried everything humanly possible. I can’t get there,” Manchin told “Fox News Sunday.”

That prompted a sharply worded response from White House press secretary Jen Psaki, who said Manchin had “in person” given Biden a written proposal that was “the same size and scope” as a framework for the bill that Democrats rallied behind in October — and that he had agreed to continue talks.

“We will continue to press him to see if he will reverse his position yet again, to honor his prior commitments and be true to his word,” Psaki said.

The White House had basically called Manchin “a liar,” McConnell said in a radio appearance on the Hugh Hewitt Show.

“It was astonishing. Usually when you’ve got a member who is a little bit out of sync with everybody else, you give them a lot of love. They did exactly the opSee MANCHIN, page A2

Carolina Renaissance Festival October 1–November 20, 2022 Huntersville History meets the present during the annual Renaissance Festival, bringing crowds to stroll through a 16th century European village with an artisan market, jousting knights on horseback and more.

NC State Fair October 13–23, 2022 Raleigh The State Fair returns after a successful 2021, in which crowds came back for the food, livestock, shows, and celebration of all things North Carolina.

Lexington Barbecue Festival October 22, 2022 Lexington After a two-year hiatus, the Lexington Barbecue Festival is anticipated across the state and region, celebrating one of our state’s gems: pulled pork barbecue.

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE | AP PHOTO

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., arrives for an end-of-the-year news conference, at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021.

RALEIGH — N.C. Democrats are confronting a trend working against them in the last 30 years of elections: they’ve won just two U.S. Senate races in that time frame.

In the 10 U.S. Senate races in that time (1992, 1996, 1998, 2002, 2004, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2016, 2020) they’ve managed to win just twice, 10 years apart, in elections in 1998 and 2008.

Democrats won both of those races by denying Republican incumbents a second term.

John Edwards, a trial lawyer who burst on the state political scene, defeated Republican Lauch Faircloth in 1998. Edwards, of course, would go on to run for president twice and was John Kerry’s vice-presidential nominee in 2004. After a spectacular fall from grace, Edwards is back to practicing law in the state.

Ten years after Edwards won, it was then-state Sen. Kay Hagan defeating an incumbent, Elizabeth Dole.

That race, which was historic for featuring two women for a major statewide office, turned nasty and is best remembered for an infamous ad run by Dole’s campaign. That ad, which cited an endorsement from an atheist organization for Hagan, coupled with the

energy and enthusiasm behind the coattails of Barack Obama, likely resulted in Hagan’s victory.

In two cases, the state’s socalled “blue moon” elections could have resulted in wins for Democrats. The political environments in 2006 and 2018 cost Republicans nationally, losing both the House and Senate in ‘06 and the House in ‘18. With one-third of Senate races contested every two years, though, both years happened to fall with no race on the ballot for N.C. voters.

Republicans Faircloth, Jesse Helms, Richard Burr, Dole, and Thom Tillis each won races, with Burr winning re-election twice and Tillis most recently re-elected in 2020. Their races were not without their own unique features.

Faircloth, a longtime Democrat, switched parties not long before running for Senate and won the Republican race in 1992, defeating Terry Sanford. In a sign of the political environment, Faircloth boasted he wanted to be the state’s conservative senator — no small feat given the other seat had been held by Helms since 1973.

In 1996, Helms would win re-election for the final time, in a rematch against his 1990 opponent, Harvey Gantt.

The 2002 race would see an See SENATE page A3

North Carolina education superintendent to roll out new parent council in 2022 Truitt said parent voices need a platform; criticizes U.S. attorney general memo

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — N.C. State Superintendent Catherine Truitt tells North State Journal she has plans to establish a new parent council in 2022.

“What we’ve seen happen with school boards and parents these past few months reminded me of something that I ran on — and that is the importance of parent voice,” said Truitt.

“When I declared my candidacy, there were no Critical Race Theory debates, and there was no pandemic, and what I spoke about often on the campaign trail was the need for K-12 education leaders to see parents as consumers,” Truitt said.

“And in my support of school choice in all of its forms. I have frequently said that the parent is the best person to decide what’s right for their child’s education and that no one cares more about that child than that child’s parents or guardians,” said Truitt. “And to that end, I will, in the New Year, be announcing the formation of a new parent council.”

See EDUCATION, page A2

5

20177 52016 $0.50

8

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

A2 WEDNESDAY

THE WORD: FOR OUR LIGHT AFFLICTION

2 Corinthians 4:17-18

12.29.21 #314

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

17

“Liberty’s story” Visit us online nsjonline.com

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Cory Lavalette Managing/Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Emily Roberson Business/Features Editor David Larson Associate Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday

by North State Media, LLC 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Raleigh, N.C. 27609 TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 or online at nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Raleigh, N.C. 27609

MANCHIN from page A1 posite,” McConnell said.

He said he’s had conversations over the years with Manchin about his party affiliation.

“If he were to join us, he would be joining a lot of folks who have similar views on a whole range of issues.”

Manchin, the only Democrat in his state’s congressional delegation, is popular back home. He was twice elected governor before his election to the Senate in 2010.

He’ll be up for re-election in 2024 should he decide to seek another term.

West Virginia is still coal country, and Democrat Manchin is chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. If he were to switch parties, McConnell and the Republicans could choose a new chairman.

“That’s something we have talked to him about,” McConnell said. “Obviously, I’m sure he enjoyed being a chair of the committee. It’s important to West Virginia, and all of those things are things we have discussed.”

Manchin has long faced questions about his place in the Democratic Party, and the talk took on fresh urgency in October when a Mother Jones article said he had been telling associates he was seriously considering leaving the party. But six days after the article was published, while sitting down with the Economic Club in Washington, Manchin rejected the reports, saying “I don’t think the Rs would be any happier with me than Ds are right now.”

He added, “So I don’t know where in the hell I belong.”

The question has been posed to him repeatedly in the past few weeks, coming to a breaking point hours after he had publicly voiced his opposition to Biden’s bill.

“I would like to hope that there are still Democrats that feel like I do,” he said. “I’m fiscally responsible and socially compassionate.”

“Now, if there’s no Democrats like that, then they have to push me wherever they want.”

Party switching in the Senate is rare but has been consequential. Republicans lost control of the Senate two decades ago when James Jeffords of Vermont quit the party to become an independent. Jeffords, upset with President George W. Bush’s opposition to the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, declared in May of 2001 that he would leave and caucus with the Democrats.

McConnell said Jeffords had “become very uncomfortable on our side.” He said Republican lawmakers courted him “because we were always fearful he would do exactly what he ended up doing. So, no, I mean, we certainly didn’t do anything like the White House did to Joe Manchin the other day.”

FILE

“Snow Scene at Argenteuil” by Claude Monet (1875) is a painting in the collection of the National Gallery, London. Monet painted at least 18 snowscapes of his home commune of Argenteuil north of Paris between 1874 and 1875. According to the painting’s original owner, Theodore Duret, the artist Manet, exclaimed upon seeing this painting, “It is perfect! I would not know how to do better” and gave up painting snow.

The final week of 2021 is upon us. We mark another year where fear and loss have been predominant themes for the world.

The Bible is our refuge in these uncertain times. The pandemic and the government responses to the threats it posed have seen freedoms curbed throughout our nation. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible shows us the common theme of man’s search for freedom.

The perfect freedom that was afforded Adam and Eve in the Garden eludes us to this day.

Salvation through Jesus Christ is the source of the freedom humanity collectively seeks. He represents freedom from death and bondage.

As we reflect on 2021, remember that the promises of Jesus remain intact. This year passed quickly, just as our lifetimes pass quickly against the sands of time. While we can hope for a brighter 2022, we can be certain in the glory of eternity.

Ukraine leader discusses Russia tensions with US lawmakers

stop the bloodshed in the east of Ukraine. It’s impossible to imagine security in Europe without ending the war in Donbas.”

Zelenskyy and the lawmakers also talked about applying further sanctions pressure on Russia, Washington’s support of Kyiv’s “Euro-Atlantic aspirations” and Ukraine’s prospects for NATO

membership.

Russia and Ukraine have been locked in a bitter tug-of-war since Moscow annexed the Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and threw its support behind the separatist insurgency that has since left more than 14,000 people dead.

A 2015 peace deal, brokered

by France and Germany, ended large-scale hostilities in Donbas, but efforts to reach a political settlement of the conflict have failed so far.

Tensions between Russia and Ukraine reignited over the troop deployment near Ukraine’s border. Officials in Ukraine and the West feared it might indicate plans for an invasion, but the Kremlin has denied that intent.

Instead, Moscow has accused Kyiv of its own troop buildup in the east, saying Ukrainian military could be planning to reclaim the rebel-held areas by force.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also has pressed the United States for guarantees that would preclude NATO from expanding east to Ukraine. The Western alliance and Ukraine have bristled at the demand.

During his call with the American lawmakers and senators, Zelenskyy said “not a single third country can have a say in Ukraine’s integration into NATO.” “No agreements on Ukraine without Ukraine,” he said.

way they were being spoken to with regards to those votes, and some of them felt that this was not something they had necessarily signed up for. She said she sympathized with them and later released a statement encouraging “civil rhetoric.”

“And then the next week we saw the [national] school boards association letter hit and the complete over reaction from Merrick Garland’s office,” said Truitt. “And I was absolutely appalled by the language used in that letter which referred to parents as terrorists and classified their behavior as tantamount to hate crimes.”

“Then to see the [NSBA] letter, then the Department of Justice response…” Truitt said. “You know, it’s sort of like, just when you think it can’t get any worse, you hear not only that the DOJ’s response was to validate that letter, but then to continue down this path.”

The NSBA apologized to its membership on Oct. 22 for sending the letter to Biden. By that date, 21 state school board associations had either distanced themselves from the NSBA or dropped their membership entirely. As of Dec. 8, the number has risen to 27 states. Out of that 27, currently 18 have withdrawn their membership or dues. North Carolina’s School Board Association was one of the 18, voting to withdraw its membership at its annual meeting held on Nov. 11.

Truitt said that once the NSBA

had apologized publicly for their letter, she said that showed “the politicization of the Department of Justice,” which Truitt says she found “inexcusable.”

Following publication of Garland’s memorandum, a number of North Carolina elected officials on both the state and federal level issued statements condemning the move, including Truitt.

“This is federal overreach for certain,” Truitt said in her statement. “The Justice Department should spend as much muscle investigating the uptick in violence and gun-related attacks around our country as they do on concerned parents who are simply frustrated about their children’s public education experience at the local level. Vehement protests are not hate crimes, and loud rhetoric does not a terrorist make.”

County-level officials also have denounced Garland’s actions. Surry County commissioners and school board members passed a resolution on Nov. 1 opposing Garland’s memorandum.

“This is a resolution in opposition to Attorney General Merrick Garland’s DOJ directive attacking parents,” said Surry County Commissioner Eddie Harris, who introduced the measure.

In the days following Garland’s memorandum, the attorney general was accused of having a conflict of interest after it was revealed his daughter is married to the co-founder of Panorama,

a company that sells Social and Emotional Learning and Critical Race Theory materials.

It was also learned through congressional hearings that Garland’s memorandum had been based on the letter by the NSBA which was sent to President Biden. Records requests conducted by Parents Defending Education showed that there had been coordination between the Biden administration and NSBA President Viola Garcia prior to the NSBA sending its Sept. 29 letter to Biden.

The most recent events related to Garland’s memorandum include documents provided to Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee by an FBI whistleblower. The documents show the FBI had employed counterterrorism tactics on parents and individuals protesting at schoolboard meetings using a “threat tag” dubbed “EDUOFFICIALS.” The use of these tactics by the FBI contradicts the testimony Garland gave during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Oct. 21.

U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, has continued to press Garland and the FBI on the matter, sending a letter demanding answers on the EDUOFFICIALS tags to FBI Director Christopher Wray on Nov. 18.

It is unclear if Wray or Garland have responded to Jordan’s requests.

The Associated Press KYIV, Ukraine — The president of Ukraine held a video call with 20 U.S. senators and members of Congress on Friday amid tensions with Russia, which recently stoked fears of a possible invasion by massing troops near Ukraine’s border.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with the senators and congressional representatives about the Russian troop buildup and the situation in his country’s war-torn east, according to Zelenskyy’s office.

Russia-backed rebels have been fighting Ukrainian forces in eastern Ukraine since 2014.

A statement from the president’s office described “the importance of getting the United States involved in the process of a peaceful settlement” to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, an area known as Donbas.

“Now, more than ever, it is not words that matter, but decisive actions,” the statement quoted Zelenskyy as saying. “My goal is to

EDUCATION from page A1 Truitt didn’t specify how the new parent council would be set up, but she indicated more details would be coming in the near future.

North State Journal also touched based with Truitt on the Oct. 4 memorandum issued

by U.S. Attorney General directing the FBI to investigate school board protests.

Garland’s memorandum was based on a Sept. 29 letter sent by the National School Boards Association (NSBA) president and CEO. The letter suggested using the Patriot Act and other domestic-terrorist measures to address alleged “violence” and “threats” surrounding school board meetings nationwide.

Truitt said that prior to the NSBA letter, and the subsequent actions of the Department of Justice, she had met with various school board members across the state.

North State Journal asked if anyone from the Department of Justice or a related agency had contacted her or the N.C. Department of Public Instruction, Truitt said, “No, no one.”

She said that some board members expressed they were upset they had to hold meetings every month, per statute, to approve continued use of masks or rescind any previous mask mandate already in place.

According to Truitt, board members were upset about the

UKRAINIAN DEFENSE MINISTRY PRESS SERVICE VIA AP

In this image released by Ukrainian Defense Ministry Press Service, Ukrainian soldiers use a launcher with US Javelin missiles during military exercises in Donetsk region, Ukraine, Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

A3

John Hood discusses inspiration, process behind new historical fantasy novel

By David Larson North State Journal RALEIGH — John Hood, president of the John William Pope Foundation, who has spent his career writing about history and economics and leading conservative North Carolina non-profits, decided recently to try something completely different: writing a historical fantasy series. Hood spoke with NSJ on Dec. 17 to explain his motivation for going in this new direction, his process for writing a novel and how his work is being received now that it’s published.

“I had never really anticipated writing a novel,” Hood said.

“I wrote nonfiction books, and I wrote a lot of them, and I wrote lots of journalism. I wasn’t convinced that I could translate my writing capacity over to fiction. Of course, my critics have always said that I wrote fiction. But I mean intentionally writing fiction seemed a bit of a stretch.”

Another potential hurdle was that after writing so many nonfiction books, John’s wife had told him, after a 2015 biography of former Gov. Jim Martin, “No more books.” He said she wanted him to spend fewer of his home hours buried in historical research and more with family. Hood mostly agreed to these terms, but he also felt the pull of an image in his mind, the image that would give birth to “Mountain Folk” and the subsequent books in the series.

“So I had this idea, this image, that had been nagging me for years — this image of a young Daniel Boone coming down to North Carolina from Pennsylvania with his family… And I just had this image of him going hunting one night and encountering magical creatures.”

Other authors, like JRR Tolkein, who wrote the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and “The Hobbit,” also report that their creative process started with a single image. For Tolkein, he said he was grading papers at Oxford University and wrote on a student’s paper, “In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.” He then spent years creating “Middle Earth” around that hobbit and his hole.

“It wasn’t ‘In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit,’ but it was very similar,” Hood said when asked about the connection. “I had a young Daniel Boone, teenage Daniel Boone, buckskin shirt, old hunting rifle. It’s dark. He’s traipsing up a mountain. There’s a winged fairy. A giant monster cat attacks. That’s basically what I had. I didn’t know what else I had.

But that’s what I had.”

Hood did his best to ignore this image and keep to his promise to write no books, but then he got very sick around the Christmas of 2019.

“I’m not a very good sick person. I’m not a very good patient,” Hood said. “So I said, you know, I’m kind of bored. I’ll write a little story like this and hand it off to my wife and my brother, and they’ll get a kick out of it. So that’s what I did. It took the better part of an afternoon maybe, and I handed it off to Mrs. Hood and to my brother, who lives in Hickory, and went back to bed.”

Hood said about an hour later, his wife came into the room where he was sleeping and looked at him for a minute and then just said, “Where’s Chapter Two?” “So the judge had modified her order,” Hood said on how he understood the implication of his wife’s question. “I was not allowed to write any more nonfiction books. But, apparently, I was not enjoined from writing fiction books. So I proceeded to write a heavily researched historical fantasy novel. Probably more research than I’ve done for any book.”

And while Hood initially worried that his journalism and more-academic writing style

SENATE from page A1 N.C. native return home to succeed Helms. “Liddy” Dole, as she was known, acquitted herself well in an early presidential campaign in 2000 and was treated as a celebrity when she announced she would seek election to the chamber where her husband, Bob Dole, had served. Democrats in that race would run Erskine Bowles, who was a former chief of staff for President Bill Clinton.

State Democrats liked what they saw in Bowles, and he was also the nominee in 2004 against Richard Burr, a Winston-Salem Republican who had served in Congress

PATRICK SEMANSKY | AP PHOTO

White House press secretary Jen Psaki speaks during a press briefing at the White House, Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, in Washington, D.C.

White House downplays Secret Service estimate of COVID fraud

By Jennifer McDermott The Associated Press

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN HOOD

wouldn’t translate into novel writing, especially when creating dialogue, he found that it wasn’t as foreign as he anticipated. Part of it, he said, was getting into the “right frame of mind,” returning to some of the lessons he had learned in theater and performance.

“What I needed to do was create a situation in my imagination and then sort of let the characters say their lines in my head and then write them down, instead of trying to actively write dialogue,” he said.

He said the key for him was creating well-developed characters and a basic plot, and then just allowing the characters to decide what happens from there, even if he had planned on them doing something completely different.

“In fact, about half-way through, I was trying to get my characters to do things that were in my plot outline and they refused, of course metaphorically speaking,” Hood recalled. “So, you will find this also kind of flighty and silly, but towards the end, there is a climactic episode that corresponds to the Battle of Yorktown. And as I was writing that next to last chapter, I genuinely wasn’t sure the fate of certain characters, and I was kind of on the edge of my seat.”

But Hood said he only allowed the characters to rule so much, since he wanted the historical conclusions of the battles and events to be accurate, even if the mythical creatures added extra context that isn’t in the official record. The point of making the setting of the fantasy story in real history, and then staying true to the bigger picture of that history, is, for Hood, a way to teach important lessons and events in a digestible format for the average person.

“Having spent most my life in public-policy work and journalism, I want to think that a carefully researched white paper or a really, really fabulous speech, or a persuasive op-ed is going to change how people think about a political issue, and my somewhat reluctant conclusion is that those expectations are unrealistic,” Hood said. “I’m in favor of doing all of those kinds of activities, and I continue to do those kinds of activities, but they’re not sufficient.

Most people have learned what they know about politics and government in ways other than policy analysis or serious journalism.

They learned it by reading books, watching movies, telling stories.”

Hood said that it’s likely more people have learned about totalitarianism from reading George Orwel than they have from read-

for 10 years before running for Senate. Burr was recruited into the race by members of President George W. Bush’s political team.

In the summer months before the ‘04 election, he trailed Bowles by 20 points in public polling. Yet he would come from behind to defeat Bowles and become the state’s junior senator and the replacement for Edwards, who would not deliver his home state in the presidential election.

Burr would subsequently win re-election in the Tea Party wave of 2010 by an astounding 14 points over Elaine Marshall, the Democratic Secretary of State. When he ran in 2016, he told voters it would

ing “some lengthy history of the Soviet Union or Hitler’s Germany” or the Federalist Papers. There are also major life lessons learned from non-historical stories like the “Lord of the Rings,” which can teach you about the temptations of power, among many other things, even if the events never occurred.

“Narrative is so important,” Hood said. “We are creatures who tell stories around the campfire, and that long predates any writing system or social science or anything like that. We taught each other important things about life, death, freedom and danger by telling stories around the campfire. So, I’m convinced that if I want to do my part to defend America’s traditions of freedom and order and constitutional government, then I need to be willing to tell stories, including imaginative stories, in order to reach people where they are.”

In terms of the narrative of the book itself, as Hood sums it up, “It’s got lots of thrilling escapes, confrontations with magical monsters, battles of the Revolutionary War, and Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson debate banking regulations. I mean, what more could you ask for?”

There are also “fairies,” which Hood means in the broader sense of all “wee folk” — dwarves, pixies, elves, etc — who live in hidden places among us, where time is slower, as opposed to humanity’’s faster pacing of time, which they call “the Blur.” These fairies interact with the key historical figures like Boone and Washington and have to decide how to respond to or even participate in the Revolutionary War. The Cherokee Nation, also observing the war brewing, plays a large part in the story and has to weigh the same questions as well.

Hood said he has heard from history teachers that “Mountain Folk” has been a way to make the stories come alive a little bit more, especially for those who have seen the subject as mostly memorizing dates.

“I’ve also heard from parents — homeschooling parents or parents who just don’t think their children get enough into history,” Hood said. “They’ve either handed the book off to a kid or they’ve been reading it [together]. One mother has been reading from the book every night, which is great.”

The second book, “Forest Folk,” comes out in April, and Hood also has plans for two more, “Water Folk” and “Valley Folk,” the last of which takes place during the Civil War.

be his last term in Washington.

The two elections featuring Thom Tillis coincided with a Republican takeover of state government. Tillis made a name for himself helping drive Republican victories in the 2010 elections and became speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives in 2011.

A Mecklenburg County Republican, Tillis helped engineer significant changes in state government and would parlay his statewide exposure into a Senate run against Hagan in 2014. As Hagan sought to make unified Republican control of state government the main issue in her re-election bid, it was Tillis who used the rise of ISIS

THE WHITE HOUSE downplayed a statement by the U.S. Secret Service that nearly $100 billion at minimum has been stolen from COVID-19 relief programs, saying that the estimate is based on old reports.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki, when asked to comment on the figure, said, “There is no new research, data or analysis of fraud here.”

The Secret Service told The Associated Press that the estimate is based on Secret Service cases and data from the Labor Department and the Small Business Administration.

An agency spokesperson said that they were not amending a statement on their website, but did add a clarifying note to explain the figure is based on reports from the Labor Department and the Small Business Administration and that the Secret Service was not producing a new report.

“There isn’t a correction to be made, we just explicitly posted on the release’s webpage the same info we discussed yesterday,” Justine Whelan, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, wrote in an email Wednesday.

Psaki said “there was just an adding up” of two old reports of well-known challenges involving small business loans and unemployment insurance payments.

“It’s also important to note that even those two older analyses combined payments that include mistakes in over and under payments but it was a reference to two older IG reports.”

The Secret Service didn’t include COVID-19 fraud cases prosecuted by the Justice Department in its estimate.

The COVID-19 relief programs were set up to help businesses and people who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

Roy Dotson, the new national pandemic-fraud-recovery coordinator for the Secret Service, discussed the fraud in an interview. While amounting to only 3% of the $3.4 trillion dispersed, the amount stolen from pandemic benefits programs shows “the sheer size of the pot is enticing to the criminals,” Dotson said.

Most of that figure comes from unemployment fraud. The Labor Department reported about $87 billion in unemployment benefits could have been paid improperly, with a significant portion attributable to fraud.

The Secret Service said it has seized more than $1.2 billion while investigating unemployment insurance and loan fraud and has returned more than $2.3 billion of fraudulently obtained funds by working with financial partners and states to reverse transactions.

The Secret Service says it has more than 900 active criminal investigations into pandemic fraud, with cases in every state, and 100 people have been arrested so far.

The Justice Department said last week that its fraud section had prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and had seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with the proceeds.

One of the best-known programs created through the March 2020 CARES Act, PPP offered low-interest, forgivable loans to small businesses struggling to meet payroll and other expenses during pandemic-related shutdowns.

The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee brings together agents from its 22 member inspectors general to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the PPP. They have led or participated in pandemic-fraud investigations leading to 818 arrests, 1,134 indictments, and 391 convictions, the committee said Tuesday.

Law enforcement early in the pandemic focused on fraud related to personal protective equipment, the Secret Service said. Authorities have now prioritized the exploitation of pandemic-related relief, because the federal funding through the CARES Act attracted the attention of individuals and organized criminal networks worldwide.

Dotson, who is the Secret Service’s assistant special agent in charge of the agency’s field office in Jacksonville, Florida, said that while they can’t stop fraud, they can prosecute those that need to be prosecuted and recover as much fraudulent pandemic funds as they can.

and growing discontent with the Obama administration to win a narrow victory and give the state two Republican senators after six years of split representation.

The most recent Senate race, in 2020, saw Tillis and Democrat Cal Cunningham spend historic sums of money. But it was an October weekend that would see the race fundamentally altered, when in succession President Donald Trump contracted COVID-19, Tillis announced the next day he had the virus, and then Cunningham confirmed racy texts that indicated a months-long affair would surface.

With Tillis recovering, Cun-

“There isn’t a correction to be made, we just explicitly posted on the release’s webpage the same info we discussed yesterday.”

Justine Whelan, spokesperson for the Secret Service

ningham floundered and admitted to the affair with a California political strategist. Tillis won the race by 96,000 votes for a second term in the Senate.

The political environment as it stands appears to be a positive for Republicans. The approval ratings for President Joe Biden and Democrats nationally have cratered since his inauguration in January.

Every indication from public polling suggests widespread dissatisfaction with inflation, the priorities of Democrats and single-party control in Washington.

Yet one fact remains true in politics: you can always expect the unexpected.

A4

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Murphy to Manteo

Local celebrations for 2022 “drop” the fun on NYE

A5

Jones & Blount

Raleigh acorn

Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., speaks at a news conference held by members of the House Freedom Caucus on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Black Creek heart Marion nugget Mount Olive pickle

ANDREW HARNIK | AP PHOTO

Charlotte crown

Beaufort pirate

Bishop sues for NC judges to share 2022 election delay votes

By Bryan Anderson The Associated Press

Eastover flea After many New Year’s Eve celebrations were cancelled in 2020, the final night of 2021 is seeing the return of dozens of events.

Across the state, events celebrating the new year are back, hosting family fun, food, concerts, and more.

Whether it’s an event in cities like Charlotte or Raleigh or parties that see a whole town gather like Burgaw and Mount Olive, it’s a time to celebrate the turning of the calendar and welcome in 2022.

Burgaw blueberry

Morehead City crab

THE BEST OF MURPHY TO MANTEO NEWS BRIEFS FROM 2021

No!-vid Jasmine Johnnae Clifton, 24, allegedly lied to get a coronavirus relief loan, spending the money on shopping excursions to Nieman Marcus, Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton and diamond stores.

Clifton was approved for a Small Business Administration loan designed to provide relief to businesses harmed by pandemic shutdowns.

She created false documents claiming $350,000 in gross revenue in 12 months for her online clothing business, Jazzy Jas, even though other paperwork showed the company was effectively dissolved in September 2019. Clifton received $149,900, which she later spent at over two dozen retailers.

Harmanco’s Restaurant on East Main Street in Albemarle is taking a stand against state orders on masks. The restaurant has a sign posted on the door warning potential customers.

“STOP!,” the sign reads. “Our staff does not wear masks. If this is an issue, DO NOT come in. Order thru our drive-thru window or get delivery.” State health officials have threatened to shut down Harmanco’s if it doesn’t comply.

Two people are charged with assault after a fight in a line at a Knightdale gas station as a fuel pipeline shutdown sparked panic-buying.

Police were called to a Marathon station for a report of a crash and a disturbance related to two people fighting over spots in line. The man and woman argued and each spat in the other’s face before the fight turned physical and a cellphone was damaged. The woman was charged with simple assault and the man was charged with assault on a female and damage to personal property.

The North Carolina Zoo began vaccinating its animals with the Zoetis shot to prevent the spread of COVID 19. The zoo is one of 70 across the country to participate in the program. The zoo began with its primates—seven gorillas and 15 chimps—who all received the shot last week.

The big cats—lions and cougars—will be next to receive the vaccine, followed by wolves and bears.

Your tax dollars at work School officials have apologized after racist hashtags were displayed on a classroom Twitter wall as part of a Civil War assignment for fourth graders. Students at the Waxhaw Elementary School were assigned to write tweets and hashtags that people living in North Carolina during the Civil War might have written if Twitter existed during that time period. Students came up with hashtags such as “Slavery for Life,” according to a photo of the Twitter wall in a now-deleted post on the school Facebook page.

Two lawmakers submitted a bill looking to have Haywood County named North Carolina’s Elk Capital. Elk were reintroduced to the area 20 years ago, in the Cataloochee Valley, which is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The initial herd of 25 is now believed to be over 200. Recognizing the area’s connection to elk will help increase tourism in the region, the bill’s supporters believe.

Catherine Teague, a 47-year-old middle school teacher, grew large quantities of marijuana

using a greenhouse at her home. Teague was charged with manufacturing and trafficking marijuana and possession with intent to sell or deliver. Deputies discovered about 25 pounds.

Also known as Catherine Neely, Teague resigned from her job as a sixth-grade math and science teacher at Leland Middle School after her arrest. Deputies discovered the marijuana after responding to a possible structure fire at the home. Teague — who worked for Brunswick County Schools since 1996 — was on a leave of absence and hadn’t taught since Jan. 19.

A woman accused an appeals court judge of nearly striking Black Lives Matter protesters in downtown Fayetteville with an SUV. Court of Appeals Judge John Tyson must appear in court to answer charges of assault with a deadly weapon. Myah Warren gave a statement about what happened May 7 during a demonstration against fatal police shootings. She and another protester had to jump out of the way to avoid Tyson’s vehicle. Tyson served on the North Carolina Court of Appeals from 2001 through 2008, then returned in early 2015. His current term ends next year.

Instead of worrying about inmates getting out, officers couldn’t get into jail when the locks malfunctioned. Burke County Jail staff noticed a smell of smoke, and doors started to fail in nine pods. The manual-override keys would not open the lock leading into one of seven cell blocks.

Staff made preparations to evacuate the jail if needed, and 12 off-duty deputies were called in to work to help with supervising and moving inmates to other jails. Inmates were moved to cells with working locks.

A high school senior was denied his diploma because he draped a Mexican flag over his gown in violation of dress code. A 68-second video of the graduation at Asheboro High School shows the unidentified student wearing the flag over his gown, on his back and shoulders, The video shows the student appearing to talk to people in the line for a few seconds before he returns to his seat without his diploma. Asheboro school officials defended the decision to withhold the student’s diploma, saying that wearing a flag of any kind is a violation of the dress code.

In deciding whether a sperm donor owes child support, judges should follow the paternity laws of the state where the child is conceived, a North Carolina appeals court ruled. Anthony Garrelts provided artificial insemination for Ericka Glenn in Virginia in 2011. In 2019, the Department of Social Services in Warren County went to court to get Garrelts to pay child support, stating he was the child’s father. Under Virginia law, a sperm donor is not a parent. But the judge applied North Carolina law and ordered Garrelts to pay $13,600, $50 per month going forward and to provide health insurance.

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools confirmed a man working at an area middle school was arrested for exposing his genitalia to children. Charles Edward Holland, 24, was a contracted employee at Lewisville Middle School working for a maintenance company. He was charged with a felony sex offense. Holland had previously been convicted of the same offense twice in Mecklenburg County.

Driving menaces A week after a man was killed in a crash with a Charlotte light-rail train, two relatives attending a memorial at the crash site were fatally struck by a light rail train. CharlotteMecklenburg police officers found Pablo Tiquiram Us, 29, and Jose Chilambalam Tiquiram Us, 20, after they’d been struck by a blue line train. Medics pronounced both dead at the scene. Investigators suspect alcohol impairment was a contributing factor. The men were conducting a memorial for Baltazar Tiquiram Us, who was killed in a crash with a light rail train at the same location on July 26.

A man was arrested after driving a car through the front of a Walmart. When officers arrived, they found Lacy Cordell Gentry, 32, of Charlotte driving the car and causing damage inside the store, according to the news release.

Police said no one was injured. An investigation determined that Gentry was a former Walmart employee, but no motive has been established for the incident. Gentry was charged with assault with a deadly weapon on a government official, breaking and entering, two misdemeanor counts of assault with a deadly weapon and other charges relating to property damage.

Roger Self, 65, was sentenced to at least 38 years in prison for killing his daughter and daughter-in-law in 2018 by driving his Jeep into a restaurant where his family was seated after attending Sunday worship services together.

Investigators said Self was having lunch with his family when he got up, went to his car and drove it into the building. Katelyn Self and Amanda George Self were killed as they sat in the Bessemer City restaurant. Three other relatives also were injured.

A truck was rolling down a highway when its windshield was struck by a fish. The unlucky fish had been caught by a bird and dropped from the sky, southeast of High Point where Interstate 73 crosses Randleman Lake in Randolph County.

Video above the truck’s windshield shows the moment when the bird flies by and drops the fish. The video lacks sound, so it’s unclear how the driver reacted. But the truck can be seen pulling to the side of the highway with a layer of slush on its windshield.

Daina Renee Forrest, 35, of Greenville, was charged with driving her car into a yard where three black teenagers were playing basketball, injuring one of them. Forrest had been driving around and threatening the three teens by waving a knife and cursing. One teen was taken to the hospital for treatment. Deputies said when they searched her car, they found marijuana, crack cocaine and a knife. Forrest was charged with three counts of assault with a deadly weapon and a count of felony cocaine possession.

A tractor trailer spilled 5,000 pounds of liquified chicken guts on U.S. 74. A truck, which had an open top, slammed on the brakes at 3:30 a.m. when the truck in front of it stopped at a yellow light. The sudden stop caused the spillage.

East bound lanes were shut down until later in the morning. Police determined that neither driver did anything wrong.

Several pets are missing after they ran off when a transport truck crashed. The truck

crashed into a concrete barrier on eastbound Interstate 40 in the Old Fort area. The spay/ neuter transport vehicle driver was seriously injured and five dogs died. When some of the animal enclosures were damaged, several animals fled the scene and six dogs and one cat were missing. More than two dozen pets have been reunited with their families. Hikers and drivers in the area are asked to be on the lookout for stray animals.

A man died after his van ran off Interstate 77 in South Carolina and hit a brick welcome sign for Chester County, authorities said. Gregory Morris Hill, 70, of Charlotte, died at the scene of the crash, Chester County Coroner Terry Tinker said. Hill’s van was heading south on I-77 when it ran off the right side of the highway and into the “Welcome to Chester County” sign at Exit 65, South Carolina Highway Patrol Cpl. Joe Hovis said. The sign was destroyed.

Still more criminal masterminds David Sierra Orozco, 31, a Mexican national, was convicted on child pornography charges after authorities say he tried to swallow memory cards containing pornographic images. Deputies in Harnett County stopped Orozco in July 2017 for driving his Lexus erratically. Deputies found more than $100,000 in cash and memory cards.

Orozco grabbed the memory cards and tried to eat them. He swallowed one and chewed another that deputies were able to retrieve.

Three other cards were unscathed, and they contained multiple images and videos of child pornography.

Anna Marie Choudhary, 33, of Boone, received the maximum 40 years in prison in a West Virginia “trust game” murder involving her father and sister. She pled guilty to seconddegree murder in the 2019 death of John Thomas McGuire, 38. Choudhary’s father, Larry Paul McClure Sr., 55, was sentenced to life without parole for first-degree murder.

Choudhary’s sister, Amanda Michelle Naylor McClure, 31, received a 40-year sentence for second-degree murder. They enticed McGuire to play a “trust game” in which his feet were tied up, and he was hit in the head with a wine bottle.

Eight people stormed a high school classroom and attacked a 14-year-old girl in an incident thought to have stemmed from an earlier fight at a school bus stop. The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office said a 16-year-old female student helped the group get inside Southern Guilford High School and led them to an upstairs classroom.

The six students and two adults assaulted the 14-year-old student, who suffered facial injuries.

Faculty, administration and a school resource officer responded, but by then, the group had run away from the classroom and made it out to the parking lot, where they were stopped Jacob Gherret Hamrick, 24, and a young accomplice stole large quantities of PopTarts, milk cartons and other items from an elementary school. The “PopTart Bandits” entered through an unsecured door of Blackburn Elementary School in Newton. Investigators recovered about 90 packages of Pop-Tarts, almost 40 milk cartons and about 40 packages

of cheese sticks, among other food items. A pack of crackers that was stolen had already been eaten. They also are accused of taking six compound bows used by the school’s archery program. Hamrick was arrested on charges of breaking or entering and larceny.

Rob Haas, of Rosman, faces dozens of charges of animal cruelty after officials seized more than 50 animals from his property. That hasn’t stopped him from continuing to adopt animals, however. Haas had 41 dogs and 12 exotic birds taken in March, but nothing prevents him from continuing to own animals while he faces the 44 separate charges. He has allegedly adopted another 11 dogs who are living on his property.

Random oddity Rose, a 7-year-old Appaloosa horse, is resting and recovering after fire crews had to rescue her from a muddy pond in Cedar Square last week. The horse was being cared for by Ratcliffe and Natalie Smith after suffering from malnourishment. About 30 minutes after being put in their pasture, she fell into the pond and became stuck. Rescuers used webbing, pulleys and ropes to free her from the mud.

Storms forced a TV newscast out of their studio for a few minutes. In High Point, WGHPTV meteorologist Van Denton ordered everyone off the set during the 5 p.m. broadcast and into a makeup room for a few minutes after a storm with a tornado warning moved right over the station. “I’ve never heard the roof rattle like that.

We’ve never had to leave the studio during a broadcast,” said anchor Neill McNeill. No serious damage or injuries were reported in North Carolina from the storms near High Point and Charlotte, which both had tornado warnings.

Police say they’ve “arrested” a goat after they got a call reporting an attempted break-in, in Greenville. The Animal Protective Services unit of the Greenville Police Department said in a statement that offices arrived to find the goat hanging out around the windows of the house.

The goat was taken to the city’s animal shelter but was soon picked up by his owner “to finish his sentence in house arrest,” police said.

A black Raleigh teenager who was practicing a ROTC routine with a replica rifle was shocked when neighbors called the police on him. Jathan Walthour had recently joined the team at Sanderson High School in Raleigh. He decided to practice one evening. Walthour said his training from a community program called “Police Explorers” had taught him how to properly handle the situation when officers arrived. Police have suggested that the teen practice his ROTC drills in his backyard. His family is thinking of making fliers to let neighbors know Jathan is in ROTC and not a threat.

A man will not be charged after he allowed adults to ride his tortoise. Photos surfaced online of people sitting on the shell of the tortoise in Albemarle. Police investigated and found that the tortoise is part of a turtle rescue group that travels to different zoos to interact with people.

The man had the proper paperwork to own and handle the tortoise, and police and wildlife officials determined no laws were broken.

RALEIGH — A North Carolina congressman has filed a federal lawsuit to demand more transparency from state Supreme Court and Court of Appeals judges whose votes this month prompted the state to push back its 2022 primary by 10 weeks.

The complaint U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop, a Charlotte-area Republican, announced on Dec. 22 and filed earlier that day criticizes a string of private court decisions, arguing three private votes run counter to “a well-established tradition of public access to the votes of individual justices and judges in the decisions of these courts.”

“It’s breathtaking hypocrisy: judges require legislators to draw maps, debate maps, and vote on new maps in public,” Bishop said in a news release. “But they rule on them in the deepest, darkest recesses of the court system. No matter which side of the issue you’re on, every North Carolinian has a right to this information and everyone should demand transparency from our judges. There are no grounds whatsoever for our courts to operate in secret.”

On Dec. 6, a three-judge appeals court panel voted minutes before candidate filing was set to begin to suspend filing for U.S. House and North Carolina General Assembly races. The court told state and local elections officials not to begin accepting candidates for those seats, prompting the state Board of Elections to turn away from the State Fairground in Raleigh several candidates for office, including U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, a Democrat who traveled from Charlotte to file her paperwork.

But later that night, “a vote of the majority of judges” on the 15-person Court of Appeals reversed the panel’s decision and allowed candidate filing to resume.

In both decisions, the judges used a

lesser-known “conference” process where they are free to discuss the issues at hand privately and then announce a ruling publicly without providing a tally of how the vote went or which judge voted in which direction.

On Dec. 8, the state Supreme Court suspended candidate filing and ordered the 2022 primary election to be delayed by 10 weeks from March 8 to May 17 as lower courts examined whether the GOPdrawn legislative and congressional maps were unlawfully drawn for pure partisan gain and to dilute the voting power of racial minorities.

Bishop believes Democrats and Republicans alike should demand transparency for all three decisions and said he is particularly interested to know the vote of Sam “Jimmy” Ervin IV, a Democratic justice on the state Supreme Court who filed for office before possibly voting shortly thereafter to halt candidate filing.

The high court’s order did not disclose how each of the seven justices voted. The signature written on the decision was illegible and appeared over the words “For the Court.”

In his lawsuit, Bishop notes that Amy Funderburk, clerk of the state Supreme Court, told him by email that Justice Tamara Barringer, a registered Republican, signed the order postponing the election. Bishop claims that neither Barringer nor any other Supreme Court worker responded to his request for a breakdown of how the seven justices voted.

Bishop, who accuses the high court and Court of Appeals of depriving him of his First Amendment rights, is also asking the courts to pay his attorneys’ fees for this case.

“The First Amendment-protected interest will retain no significant value unless the deprivation of access is remedied almost immediately and in any event well prior to the general election 2022,” Bishop wrote in the suit.

BRYAN ANDERSON | AP PHOTO

MaryJane Robinson, left, a District Court judge candidate from Robeson County, files her candidacy papers with the State Board of Elections at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.

Families that fled Afghanistan face rising rents in U.S. The Associated Press RALEIGH — Afghan families who’ve fled the Taliban to resettle in the U.S. are facing yet another challenge: finding affordable housing.

Raleigh television station WRAL reported Friday that families are facing that problem in the Research Triangle area.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services says that a total of more than 1,500 Afghans are expected to arrive in the state by mid-February.

Omer Omer, the state field director for the U.S. Committee for Refugees and

Immigrants (USCRI), said the agency is having trouble finding landlords who will work with its clients. He said many of the families lack a credit history, which landlords often seek.

At the same time, Omer said that rents are rising rapidly. The organization is now placing some Afghans in extended stay hotels. Or they are postponing their moves from temporary housing into permanent housing.

Omer says the families his organization has resettled have never defaulted on their leases or been evicted.

He said the agency has programs in place to help them.

A6

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

north STATEment Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

The Grinch who saved Christmas…and maybe the American Democratic Republic

In 2022, these same independents and unaffiliateds will get the chance to rectify their major mistake when they bought into the lie that Joe Biden was a “moderate.”

IT IS HARD TO SAY that one politician’s vote changed the course of history.

Usually, people point to one elected person’s ability to lead the country through a crisis as the reason why the course of history was changed.

Lincoln during the American Civil War and Winston Churchill during the entirety of World War II are legitimate examples of when true leaders “saved” the American republic or Western civilization as we know it.

But Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia sure deserves at least an honorable mention in the Profiles in Courage Hall of Fame for his opposition to the outrageously expensive Build Back Better signature program of President Joe Biden and his left-wing, socialist, progressive Democratic Party.

President Biden’s handlers want to make him out to be the reincarnation of FDR or LBJ. He is not. He is exactly the president socialist Eugene Debs or Bernie Sanders would have been had they been elected president.

In that regard, Sen. Manchin is the Grinch who saved Christmas and maybe the American democratic republic — for now.

First, some perspective is needed. Manchin opposed the $5 trillion budget-busting BBB bill that would have most assuredly added trillions to the national debt and raised the tax burden on millions of taxpayers.

The national debt today is $29 trillion. The debt limit was raised by the Democratic majority in Congress to $31.4 trillion, with $6.1 trillion of this debt being intragovernmental between Social Security and other programs. All of that has to be paid at some point in cash via higher taxes or massive cuts to Social Security benefits paid out to Boomers in the very near future.

The entire U.S. GDP is $23 trillion in the aggregate. You can do the comparative math.

It is hard to say Manchin “saved the American republic” permanently since we don’t know if anyone else in Congress or the White House has the guts and brains to arrest the inexorable rise in federal debt.

Maybe future historians will say Sen. Manchin merely “hit the pause button” on the road to American fiscal demise.

What can really save the American democratic republic is if huge majorities of voters come to their senses and vote for elected representatives at every level of government who understand that, while they might be celebrated by the left for “looking out for the poor” or “advocating for children,” each time they do so it is with “Other People’s Money” (OPM), not their own.

Very few politicians have ever started a company or worked in a highlevel corporate position to understand what it takes to run a successful business. When I worked for former Congressman Alex McMillan, he was one of only three congressional representatives who had ever been CEO or CFO of a major corporation.

To most liberal representatives, OPM is make-believe money, like Monopoly money they can take out of the box whenever they want with no serious downside attached. They have no concept of real-world economics, finance or business — and it shows.

In an odd twist, the radical progressive socialist left is doing exactly what they can do to help “save the American republic” — show how dangerous and destructive their policies really are in practice. The more their true stripes are revealed in public, the more independents and unaffiliated voters have realized they helped elect the most liberal and socialist president and Congress in 2020 in American history.

In 2022, these same independents and unaffiliateds will get the chance to rectify their major mistake when they bought into the lie that Joe Biden was a “moderate” and would govern from the center. Instead, they got a confused older gentleman who was not named Bernie Sanders but governed like him anyway.

America may have dodged a major bullet because of Sen. Joe Manchin’s bravery. Everyone in Congress needs to follow his lead and just say “no” to more spending from now on. For about a decade to be exact.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

2022 is likely to be a brutal year for Joe Biden and Democrats

Parents are galvanized against the “woke” Critical Race Theory-based educational agenda Democrats are foisting on young children in public school classrooms across the country.

NORMALLY, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but this is one of those times where I’m not hating it so much.

For President Joe Biden and his fellow Democrats, 2022 is likely to be a brutal year.

For starters, history tells us that midterm election years are usually not good for the president’s party, as they are viewed as referendums on how that president has done their first two years in office.

And polls across the board are telling us that nobody, not Democrats, not independents, and certainly not Republicans, of course, is happy with Biden.

The primary reason for Democrat unhappiness with Biden stems from his inability to bring his party together to coalesce around his agenda.

Considering how Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.) effectively torpedoed Biden’s much-touted “Build Back Better” plan for the foreseeable future earlier this week, and seeing how both Manchin and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) remain staunch proponents of the filibuster — for which Democrats, in general, have newfound hate now that the Senate is at a 50/50 split — that is unlikely to change.

But Biden and his fellow Democrats are also facing another issue from within, and it revolves around support from Hispanic voters, which began trickling away during the Trump years.

It’s a trend which recent elections, including the September California recall election and

the November 2021 off-year election, indicate is giving no sign of letting up.

Though the percentages are small, in close elections it doesn’t take a massive swing to Republicans from a core Democratic voting bloc in order to change the course of a race. It just takes one or two percentage points.

The issues independents have with Biden and the Democratic Party largely line up with the issues Republicans have with him. They don’t like his push for vaccine mandates, they don’t care for his constant COVID-19 fearmongering, and they don’t cotton to his economic plans.

Biden’s Afghanistan exit strategy and his disastrous handling of it, which saw 13 U.S. Marines murdered trying to protect innocent Afghans and which for weeks afterward were fraught with peril for Americans who were stranded there, will also not help him. It has already solidified Republican opposition to him and likely will inspire some who may have sat out the 2022 midterm elections into making their voices heard on Election Day. Parents, even those in states other than red states, are also galvanized against the “woke” Critical Race Theory-based educational agenda Democrats are foisting — or at the very least are attempting to have foisted — on young children in public school classrooms across the country.

Virginia Democratic gubernatorial nominee Terry McAuliffe found this out the hard way last month after he repeatedly insulted parents in the state by lying about coordinated

efforts to implement a radical curriculum that revolves around teaching black children to believe they are perpetual victims of their white schoolmates’ “white privilege,” and that America is an inherently racist country.

He also point-blank admitted during a debate that “I don’t think parents should be telling schools what they should teach,” an illuminating statement that happened during a contentious exchange between himself and Republican gubernatorial nominee Glenn Youngkin over whether parents should be given advance notice of when sexually explicit material was going to be taught to their children — another issue parents have with Democrats locally in various parts of the country.

Not long after parents began showing up at school board meetings, Biden’s DOJ issued a memo that revolved around getting the FBI involved in “investigating” parents for alleged “threats,” a clear attempt at suppressing free speech.

The ire of parents, independent voters and Hispanics towards Democrats continues to grow, and if they don’t change course, what happens in November at the ballot box is not going to be pleasant for them.

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

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021 COLUMN ROBERT LEVY

COLUMN | SAINT AUGUSTINE

Virtues, republics and The City of God IF WE ARE TO ACCEPT the definitions laid down by Scipio in Cicero’s De Republica, there never was a Roman republic; for he defines a republic as “the weal of the people.”

If this definition was true, there never was a Roman republic, for the people’s weal was never attained among the Romans.

For the people is an assemblage associated by a common acknowledgment of right and by a community of interests.

What he means by a common acknowledgment of right, he shows that a republic cannot be administered without justice.

Where there is no true justice, there can be no right.

For that which is done by right is justly done, and what is unjustly done cannot be done by right. For the unjust inventions of men are neither to be considered nor spoken of as rights; for even they themselves say that right flows from the fountain of justice.

Where there is not true justice, there can be no assemblage of men associated by a common acknowledgment of right, and therefore there can be no people. If no people, then no weal of the people, but only of some promiscuous multitude unworthy of the name of people.

If the republic is the weal of the people, and if there is no right where there is no justice, then it follows that there is no republic where there is no justice. Further, justice is that virtue which gives everyone his due.

Where is the justice of man when he deserts the true God and yields himself to impure demons?

If we say that a people is an assemblage of reasonable beings bound together by a common agreement as to the objects of their love, then, in order to discover the character of any people, we have only to observe what they love.

Whatever it loves, it is reasonably called a people. It will be a superior people in proportion as it is bound together by higher interests; inferior in proportion as it is bound

together by lower interests.

According to this definition, the Roman people is a people, and its weal is without doubt a commonwealth or republic. History shows what its tastes were in its early and subsequent days, and how it declined into sanguinary seditions and then to social and civil wars, and so burst asunder or rotted off the bond of concord in which the health of a people usually consists.

For the city of the ungodly which did not obey the command of God, and which could not give to the soul its proper command over the body, nor give to the reason its just authority over the vices, is void of true justice.

For though the soul may seem to rule the body admirably, and the reason the vices, if the soul and reason do not themselves obey God, they have no proper authority over the body and the vices.

What kind of mistress of the body and the vices can that mind be which is ignorant of the true God and instead of being subject to His authority, is prostituted to the corrupting influences of the most vicious demons?

The virtues which it seems to possess are rather vices than virtues so long as there is no reference to God in the matter.

Some suppose that virtues which have a reference only to themselves, and are desired only on their own account, are yet true and genuine virtues. The fact is that, even then, they are inflated with pride, and are therefore to be reckoned vices rather than virtues.

For as that which gives life to the flesh is not derived from flesh, but is above it, so that which gives blessed life to man is not derived from man, but is something above him; and what I say of man is true of every celestial power and virtue whatsoever.

Augustine of Hippo, “City of God,” Book XIX, Chap. 21, 24 and 25, slightly adapted and abridged for the modern ear.

Completed work published 426 A.D.

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

The biggest corporate welfare recipients ever HOW MUCH DO SOLAR, wind and electric-vehicle companies get in federal handouts and tax loopholes in President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better bill?

Well over $100 billion in taxpayer largesse. If all the tax credits are included, that number could reach half a trillion dollars. No other industry in American history has ever received this lucrative a paycheck.

The folks at the Institute for Energy Research calculated that this is on top of the more than $150 billion in subsidies these industries received from Uncle Sam in the last 30 years.

The umbilical cord to taxpayer wallets never gets cut. Yet, laughably, the left says all these subsidies to “green energy” are necessary for an “infant industry.” Really? Does Big Wind or Big Solar ever grow up? Incidentally, our ancestors were using windmills and solar panels during the Middle Ages.

So why do these renewable energies get so much money from Congress, and why do Democrats want to give them the biggest payday in the history of the Washington favor factory? Not because renewable has great promise. Thirty years after the handouts started, wind and solar accounted for less than 8% of our total energy production. It’s inconsequential.

If we taxpayers are “investors” in green energy, we’d be wondering where our return is at this point. Wind and solar costs are going down, but not nearly as fast as the cost

reductions in natural gas, thanks to the shale revolution.

But now the left is trying to save its latest round of gargantuan welfare checks by arguing that the higher costs of oil and gas at the pump show that these energy sources prove that we can’t rely on fossil fuels.

It is reminiscent of the story of the boy who kills his parents and throws himself at the mercy of the court for being an orphan. Oil and gas prices are rising because Biden and the left have declared war on American fossil fuels.

They aren’t allowing drilling. They instead are passing new “methane” taxes and not building pipelines.

Now liberals shake their fingers at the producers and accuse them of gouging consumers as they assault the added American oil and gas supply that would lower the prices to fill up your tank and heat your home. They are now starting a multimillion-dollar ad campaign in Washington, paid for by taxpayers, telling us that the high gas prices the Biden administration wants mean we have to stop using gas.

The irony of all of this is that the reliance on greenenergy subsidies is one good reason for so little technological progress in renewable energy. We’d perhaps see more innovation if the industry had to fight on a level playing field.

Democrats in Congress keep doling out the dollars because the green energy industry gives 90% of its contributions to Democrats. It is nothing more than a payto-play gambit.

If wind and solar are the low-cost energy sources of the future, why do they need so much government aid? Will they ever take the training wheels off?

After three decades, maybe it is time to admit the obvious: Wind and solar are niche energy sources that will not anytime soon, and probably never, provide anywhere near the energy we need for our $22 trillion industrial economy.

Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at FreedomWorks. He is also a co-founder of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity and a Washington Examiner columnist.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

The big government COVID-19 lie ON OCT. 30, 2020, just days before the presidential election, Joe Biden tweeted, “I’m not going to shut down the country. I’m not going to shut down the economy. I’m going to shut down the virus.”

This was a lie.

It was a lie because nobody can shut down the virus.

Government does not have the power to end disease, as a general matter. When it comes to a wildly transmissible coronavirus specifically, no government can end the virus.

Even the sainted Dr. Anthony Fauci has admitted as much: “we’re never going to eradicate this ... elimination may be too aspirational.”

Which means that government should not aim for elimination; it can aim for some level of control. That control must be balanced with countervailing concerns, ranging from suppression of economic freedom to the effects of social isolation. This means that the lowestcost intervention was incentivization and distribution of vaccines — a service performed by the Trump administration. The worst form of control would be overbroad, coercive restrictions that fail to achieve their objectives.

And yet it is precisely those forms of control now being sought by Democratic mayors and governors, as well as the Biden administration. To make such tactics even more puzzling, Democrats are pursuing such restrictions in the face of an extraordinarily transmissible variant — some 70 times more transmissible than delta — that has far lower death rates than prior variants.

Such restrictions include vaccination passports, mask mandates, mass testing, and vaccination mandates.

Vaccination passports will not control the spread of omicron, because the vaccinated are capable of spreading COVID-19. Mask mandates will not stop the spread of omicron; nothing short of N95 masks would do much to even slow that spread, even theoretically. In practice, mask mandates have not achieved their desired effect, as

A7

omicron spikes in places like New York City demonstrate.

Mass testing will not control the spread of omicron, because asymptomatic people will not test — and if we quarantine millions of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic people, we will shut down the economy and our school system. And vaccination mandates will simply result in supply-chain shortages, including within our health care system, as well as ugly social divisions.

So, why pursue useless — no, counterproductive — COVID-19 restrictions?

Because the big-government lie must be maintained.

It is an article of faith. And faith requires reason-free sacrifice — it requires skin in the game, demonstration of devotion. To pursue rational policy would evidence no fealty to the notion of government-as-protective-god. To pursue irrational policy and then demand obeisance — this is the mark of the faithful. And if you are not faithful, you are a heretic.

And so regulatory genuflection becomes a test of virtue.

Effectuating strict regulations is a sign of moral strength, of belief in the myth of government as catholicon. Pushing back against those restrictions is a sign of heresy.

On Oct. 22, 2020, in a debate with President Donald Trump, Biden said that “anyone who is responsible for not taking control ... anyone who is responsible for that many deaths should not remain as president of the United States of America.” This was incorrect. The truth is that anyone who claimed that he could take control of a virus should be held responsible for the consequences of that lie.

But that will only happen when Americans abandon the cultic worship of government and return to reality. And Biden and Democrats will fight such blasphemy with every weapon in their arsenal.

Ben Shapiro, 37, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and editor-inchief of DailyWire.com.

From Roosevelt to Biden: Fascism as an American experience FASCISM has been lurking in the American psyche since its invention in the early part of the 20th century.

To understand this phenomenon, it is instructive to learn what fascism is and, more importantly, what it is not.

Fascism is a form of government where the industry and the political class act in unison. Their goal is to support both the state and corporate profits. To that end, all non-elites, from middle-class shop keepers to farmers — people the intellectuals call “bourgeois “and “peasants” — are expected to support this ruling-class monopoly. It is exclusively an economic model designed to replace laissez-faire capitalism with totalitarian capitalism.

In furtherance of that totalitarian control, all forms of public discourse, from written publications to vocal public gatherings, are expected to “fall in line.” If it is published in the media or allowed on the grocery shelves, it is within the control of the central government. This is designed to keep control within a relatively small group of preferred “leaders” — or Fuhrers, if one prefers — all of this defended as a “minor sacrifice” for the “national good.”

As an economic model, fascism does not require antisemitism or a Holocaust.

The German form of fascism was brutal.

It exterminated millions of Jews, Roma (Gypsies) and homosexuals in a maniacal genocide the world can never forget.

But, that was the means to an end, not an integral part of the economic model. In order to achieve power, fascists needed an emergency and a scapegoat on which that emergency could be blamed. In Germany, the humiliation and the economic upheaval brought on by the Treaty of Versailles formed the “emergency.” Jews, Roma and homosexuals provided the “scapegoat” on which to blame the “emergency.”

In America today, it is white Christians and the “unvaccinated” who are the new “scapegoats.” They are supposedly responsible for rampant racism, poverty and inequality. “The unvaccinated” — not the Chinese inventors of COVID — are considered responsible for 800,000 American deaths in the current pandemic.

Their mere existence is a crime. So, as the logic advances, “extermination” of their opinions and values in the public square may be part of the solution.

For instance, is there any difference in the German antisemitic laws enacted between 1933 and 1938 forbidding Jews from being employed and the firing of workers who choose, on Christian religious grounds, to be unvaccinated?

Although, it differs in scale, does the idea floated by today’s leading fascist intellectual, David Frum, really differ from that of Adolf Eichmann? Frum’s idea is that unvaccinated individuals be given medical care last and they be allowed to die a painful death on the hospital steps.

Eichmann suggested that Jews, Roma and homosexuals die a painless death in a gas chamber. The only difference between them involves method and scale.

Nor is fascism new to American thinking.

In the United States, the fascist movement became popular as a cure when the Great Depression took hold. In 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt and his cadre of elites created the fascist NRA, the National Recovery Act, a law drafted to combat the Great Depression. It suspended competition between corporations. Production was controlled by the orders of the national government. Their goal would be to return America to prosperity while shielding established elites from the risk of an open market.

The NRA symbol was a black eagle, similar to what was to become a symbol of Nazi fascism. That black eagle in America was as omnipresent as Hitler’s German Black Eagle, emblazoned in all public spaces from commercial trucks to movie credits.

Indeed, the Supreme Court recognized the anti-democratic foundation of the NRA and declared it unconstitutional. But that did not end the American fascist movement.

It was not always called “fascism.” In the post-World War II era, it was called McCarthyism, its own form of “cancel culture” that saw actors lose their jobs based upon their politics, instead of their abilities. Ironically, many in the acting and entertainment world today who claim the mantle of tolerance and liberalism, whose parents and forebears condemned Joseph McCarthy most vociferously, are the very people supporting the new fascism of today.

In other words, the fascism advocated by the Democratic Party, ANTIFA paramilitary and Black Lives Matter is not new. Christians and Caucasians are simply the new Jew, the new Uighur, even the successor to Jim Crow. Biden’s fascism, not climate change, is our “existential threat.”

The fascists must be defeated at the polls in 2022 and 2024. The alternative is the extermination of our Republic.

A8

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

NATION & WORLD Murdaugh blamed some problems on addiction; bond set at $7M The Associated Press COLUMBIA, S.C. — Speaking publicly for the first time in months, the prominent South Carolina attorney accused of a slew of mostly financial crimes after his wife and son were found shot dead outside their home blamed some of his problems on a 20-year-long opiate addiction shortly before a judge set bond at $7 million in early December.

The entire $7 million must be posted for Alex Murdaugh to go on house arrest with electronic monitoring, get counseling and be randomly drug tested, said Circuit Judge Alison Renee Lee in the virtual hearing.

The hearing marked the first time Murdaugh has spoken publicly at length since the deaths.

“My head is on straighter; I’m thinking clearer than I have in a long, long time,” Murdaugh said. “I want to deal with these charges appropriately and head-on. I want to repair as much of the damage that I’ve done as I can. I want to repair as many of the relationships as I can.”

The 53-year-old heir to a legal dynasty in Hampton County, South Carolina, faces nearly 50 counts for what prosecutors said were schemes to steal more than $6.2 million in settlement and other money from about a dozen clients.

He faces a separate set of charges for what police say was an attempt to have himself shot and killed Sept.

4 so his surviving son could collect a $10 million life-insurance policy.

Murdaugh described to the judge his frame of mind leading up to the events of that day. He said he had

met with his brother and another law firm partner to confess a 20-year-long hidden addiction and to “discuss my actions” in the 24 hours before the attempted killing, and was going through opiate withdrawal at the time.

The firm announced its own investigation into missing funds shortly after Murdaugh said he was going into rehab in September.

Murdaugh said he knew he had tarnished his family’s legacy, but that he had improved since September and had not used opiates in more than three months.

Monday’s bond hearing centered on charges handed down by a grand jury totaling 48 counts of breach of trust with fraudulent intent, computer crimes, money laundering and forgery. Prosecutors said that among Murdaugh’s victims in the schemes dating back to 2015 were family friends, an undocumented immigrant and a car-wreck victim.

Investigators say Murdaugh used a fraudulent bank account he created with a similar name to a company that handles legal settlements.

According to indictments, he then used the money to pay bank overdraft fees, credit-card payments, checks written to friends and family and other items.

Murdaugh’s father, grandfather and great-grandfather were prosecutors in tiny Hampton County, where every road leading to the county seat is two lanes. The family’s law firm, located in the most impressive building in town after the courthouse, has spent a century winning multimillion-dollar verdicts.

His legal troubles began after

LEWIS M. LEVINE | AP PHOTO

Alex Murdaugh awaits the beginning of his bond hearing in the Richland Judicial Center in Columbia, S.C., Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021. his wife, Maggie, 52, and son Paul, 22, were found shot to death at the family’s estate in June. No one has been charged in their deaths, and Murdaugh’s lawyers said he has denied having anything to do with their killings.

Running parallel to the criminal court saga is a growing number of lawsuits. Murdaugh’s former law firm has sued him, as have the sons of his dead housekeeper, who died after a fall at one of the family’s homes in 2018. The Murdaugh family also faces lawsuits surrounding a 2019 boat crash in which Paul Murdaugh was charged with boating under the influence causing death.

Attorneys for both Murdaugh and deceased housekeeper Gloria Satterfield’s sons announced during the bond hearing that some victims were nearing resolution with Murdaugh, who is also accused of stealing insurance money meant for Satterfield’s sons.

The lawyers for both Murdaugh and Satterfield’s family said Murdaugh had agreed to a $4.3 million judgment in the case, subject to the approval of court-appointed receivers who now control his assets.

“The family is pleased that Mr. Murdaugh has finally expressed his apologies and has taken a positive step toward resolution by agreeing to confess judgment to Gloria’s sons,” Satterfield lawyer Ronnie Richter said in a statement.

Lee’s bond order surpassed amounts recommended by prosecutors, who had recommended the judge either set bond at the $6.2 million Murdaugh was accused of stealing or a lesser figure of $4.7 million — about $100,000 for each count.

Defense attorneys had asked the judge to set bond at a maximum of $200,000 and indicated they would ask Lee reconsider her decision.

“He can’t post a $7 million. He couldn’t post a $700,000,” Dick

General says US troops to remain in Iraq The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The top U.S. commander for the Middle East said that the United States will keep the current 2,500 troops in Iraq for the foreseeable future, and he warned that he expects increasing attacks on U.S. and Iraqi personnel by Iranian-backed militias determined to get American forces out.

Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie said in an interview with The Associated Press at the Pentagon that despite the shift by U.S. forces to a non-combat role in Iraq, they will still provide air support and other military aid for Iraq’s fight against the Islamic State.

Noting that Iranian-backed militias want all Western forces out of Iraq, he said an ongoing uptick in violence may continue through December.

“They actually want all U.S. forces to leave, and all U.S. forces are not going to leave,” he said, adding that as a result, “that may provoke a response as we get later into the end of the month.”

The Iraqi government earlier this month announced the conclusion of talks on ending the U.S. combat mission against IS. U.S. forces have been largely in an advisory role for some time, so the announced transition changes little. The announcement reflects a July decision by the Biden administration to end the U.S. combat mission in Iraq by Dec. 31.

“We’ve drawn down from bases we didn’t need, we’ve made it harder to get at us. But the Iraqis still want us to be there. They still want the presence, they still want the engagement,” said McKenzie.

“So as long as they want it, and we can mutually agree that’s the case — we’re going to be there.”

He said he believes Islamic State militants will continue to be a threat in Iraq and that the group will “keep recreating itself, perhaps under a different name.”

The key, he said, will be to ensure that IS is not able to coalesce with other elements around the globe and become increasingly strong and dangerous.

America invaded Iraq in

AP PHOTO

Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, the head of U.S. Central Command, attends at a ceremony where Gen. Scott Miller, who has served as America’s top commander in Afghanistan since 2018, handed over command, at Resolute Support headquarters, in Kabul, Afghanistan, July 12, 2021.

2003, and at the peak point had more than 170,000 troops battling insurgents in the country and later working to train and advise Iraqi forces. All U.S. forces were withdrawn at the end of 2011, but just three years later, American troops were back to help Iraq beat back the Islamic State group, which had swept across the border from Syria to gain control of a large swath of the country.

The U.S. presence in Iraq has long been a flash point for Tehran, but tensions spiked after a January 2020 U.S. drone strike near the Baghdad airport killed a top Iranian general. In retaliation, Iran launched a barrage of missiles at al-Asad airbase, where U.S. troops were stationed.

More than 100 service members suffered traumatic brain injuries in the blasts.

More recently, Iranian proxies are believed responsible for an assassination attempt last month

on Iraq’s Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi. And officials have said they believe Iran was behind the October drone attack at the military outpost in southern Syria where American troops are based. No U.S. personnel were killed or injured in the attack.

“I think an attack to kill the prime minister is a pretty significant event,” McKenzie said. “I think that’s a signpost of the desperation that they’re under right now.” Iranian officials have said Tehran and its allies had nothing to do with last month’s drone attack that lightly injured the Iraqi prime minister.

McKenzie, who has headed U.S. Central Command for nearly three years and traveled extensively throughout the region, painted a picture that reflected the recent upheaval in Afghanistan, where U.S. troops departed at the end of August.

On Afghanistan, McKenzie said the al-Qaida extremist

group has grown slightly since U.S. forces left and that the ruling Taliban leaders are divided about their 2020 pledge to break ties with the group. He said the departure of the U.S military and intelligence assets from the country has made it “very hard, not impossible” to ensure that neither al-Qaida nor the Islamic State group’s Afghanistan affiliate can pose a threat to the United States.

Like the Taliban’s long campaign to get Americans out of Afghanistan, Iran and its proxies have battled to get the U.S. out of Iraq and the broader Middle East.

“Iran still pursues a vision of ejecting us,” he said. “And they see the principal battleground for that as being in Iraq. And I believe they are under the view that they can increase friction in Iraq to where we will leave.”

Iran, he said, believes that campaign won’t affect the nucle-

Harpootlian, an attorney for Murdaugh, said. “He has no money.”

Harpootlian declined to comment further on Murdaugh’s finances to The Associated Press.

Murdaugh has been jailed since October on charges of stealing insurance money from Satterfield’s sons.

Circuit Judge Clifton Newman again denied bond in November, citing Murdaugh’s considerable financial resources and mental instability. A spokesperson for the state Attorney General’s Office said although the new grand jury indictments now supersede the arrest warrants that Newman denied bond on, Murdaugh will remain at a Richland County detention center unless he posts the $7 million bond.

His attorneys have appealed that no bond decision to the state Supreme Court.

He could face more than 500 years in prison if convicted of all the charges, which are all felonies.

ar negotiations that were long stalled but are now restarting.

But, he said, “I think it’s a dangerous position for the Iranians to maintain, because I think they’re not going to be able to decouple those two things.”

McKenzie said that as NATO begins to expand its presence in Iraq as planned, the U.S. will refine its force there. And the total U.S. force presence will depend on future agreements with Iraq’s government.

The U.S. troops in Syria, currently numbering about 900, will continue to advise and assist Syrian rebel forces in the fight against IS, McKenzie said.

He said it’s not clear how much longer that will be necessary but said, “I think we are measurably closer than we were a couple of years ago. I still think we have a ways to go.”

More broadly, McKenzie noted that the U.S. troop presence across the Middle East has significantly dropped since last year, when it peaked amid tensions with Iran, at as much as 80,000. The U.S. has identified China and Russia as the top national security threats, labeling China as America’s “pacing challenge,” and has looked to focus more effort and assets in the Pacific.

In its recent review of the positioning of U.S. forces around the world, the Pentagon said little about removing or repositioning troops in the Middle East.

McKenzie and other top military leaders have long worried that the U.S. military is concentrated in too few locations in the Middle East and must disperse more to increase security.

“We think it is important to work with our partners in the region to present a more complex targeting problem to Iran,” he said, adding that U.S. will look at other bases and opportunities to move troops around to achieve that goal.

McKenzie said he is particularly concerned by Iran’s development of ballistic and cruise missiles as well as armed drones.

“And so those things are very concerning to me because they continue to develop them,” he said. “And they show no signs of abating in their research in this field, and their fielding of new and increasingly lethal and capable weapons.”

2022 PREDICTIONS

KARL B. DEBLAKER | AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Sebastian Aho, left, has already developed into one the NHL’s best players. In 2022, he can solidify himself as an elite one.

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Year of the Fish: Aho poised to be NHL’s breakout superstar player

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

No makeups for CFP semis if team can’t play due to virus Indianapolis If a team is unavailable to play in College Football Playoff semifinals because of COVID-19 issues, the game will be forfeited and the available team will advance to the championship game.

With COVID-19 cases spiking across the country due to the omicron variant, the CFP announced Dec. 22 contingency plans for the semifinals and national championship game, which is scheduled for Jan. 10 in Indianapolis.

No. 1 Alabama is scheduled to face No. 4 Cincinnati in the Cotton Bowl in one New Year’s Eve semifinal, and No. 2 Michigan is set to play No. 3 Georgia in the Orange Bowl in the nightcap of the CFP doubleheader. The contingency plans were agreed to by the CFP management committee, comprised of the 10 FBS conference commissioners and Notre Dame’s athletic director. While there will be no rescheduling of either semifinal, the championship game could be delayed until as late as Jan. 14. If a team cannot play in the title game, the available team will be declared national champion. If neither team has enough available players by Jan. 14, the championship will be considered vacated.

HOCKEY

NHL opts out of Beijing Olympics New York NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced Dec. 22 that NHL players would not be going to the Winter Olympics in Beijing, making official what seemed inevitable when a rash of positive COVID-19 test results caused several teams to shut down and postponed 50 games. The league will use the previously scheduled Feb. 6-22 Olympic break to make up those games and others that need to be rescheduled. Russia won gold in South Korea in 2016 without NHL player participation.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

After a first season in Winston-Salem in which everything that could go wrong did, Wake Forest coach Steve Forbes has the Demon Deacons looking like an ACC contender.

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 COACH OF THE YEAR

Steve Forbes has Deacons pointed in right direction With a COVID-disrupted first season in the rearview mirror and bigger coaching news on Tobacco Road, the Wake Forest coach is quietly building a winner

to go to match Jackson’s resume, which includes 11 NBA championship rings with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, the genial 56-year-old is well on his way toward producing one of the most remarkable success stories in recent ACC history.

One year after taking the job and

By Brett Friedlander suffering through a COVID-interNorth State Journal rupted 6-16 (3-15 ACC) season, STEVE FORBES couldn’t help Forbes has transformed the Deacons from a perennial but chuckle as he lisdoormat into a surprise tened to the hyperbole NCAA Tournament conof players Isaiah Mucius tender. and Alondes Williams His work in leading during their postgame Wake to a 10-1 start press conference followthrough the nonconfering Wake Forest’s win Wake Forest’s ence season has posiagainst Charlotte last nonconference tioned him to become week.

Mucius, who had just record to start the North State Journal’s Coach of the Year in hit the game-winning this season 2022.

3-pointer at the buzzer, after going Forbes’ success with compared his jersey pop6-16 last year. the Deacons is hardly a ping celebration to that fluke. of Kobe Bryant, while He’s won everywhere he’s gone Williams referred to his tomahawk jam in the first half as “the — from the junior college level, where he led Northwest Florida LeBron dunk.”

“So I’ve got LeBron and Kobe State to back-to-back national sitting next to me?” Forbes said. “I runner-up finishes, to East Tennessee State, where he averaged must be Phil, then.”

Forbes was referring to NBA 26 wins during his five-season coaching legend Phil Jackson, of tenure. course.

Although he still has a long way See FORBES, page B4

10-1

The Hurricanes center has already established himself as one of the top centers in the league, and he can cement his legacy with a Stanley Cup title

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal WHEN ROD Brind’Amour took over as coach of the Carolina Hurricanes before the 2018‑19 season, you could tell he was a bit unsure if a slight 6-foot center could handle the workload of being a No 1 center.

He doesn’t have any such concerns about Sebastian Aho now.

“The center position is so crucial,” Brind’Amour said back in late October. “It’s goaltending, it’s defense and then it’s the center position. And you have to have that because there’s so much responsibility there.

“We’ve been saying this now for a while — Seabass is a legitimate center now. He can go against anybody.”

While Aho doesn’t have the sculpted physique his coach had in his playing days — and, frankly, still has — he has built his game in the image of Brind’Amour.

Still just 24, Aho has become the Hurricanes’ most dangerous scorer, is an essential part of the team’s power play and penalty kill, was named alternate captain before this season and is consistently placed head-tohead against the NHL’s best centers.

And given that the best is surely yet to come, Aho is North State Journal’s prediction to be 2022’s Athlete of the Year.

Aho — who is nicknamed Seabass and Fishy — is in line to have the best statistical season of his career. Going into the Christmas break, he had 15 goals and 17 assists for 32 points in 26 games — a 100-point pace for an 82-game season. He’s also been incredibly durable, having missed just four games in January 2018 because of a concussion in the first five years of his career.

“Guys watch him play the game, it’s contagious and they want to to be able to follow in his footsteps.”

Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin on Sebastian Aho

His Ironman streak ended 2½ weeks ago when he tested positive for COVID-19. The obstacle came at both a good and bad time for Aho. He was playing his best hockey at the time of his quarantine, having scored multiple points in each of the previous five games and being named the NHL’s Second Star for the week ending Dec. 12.

A 14-day quarantine for Aho became only 10 when the team was able to get him, rookie Seth Jarvis and team massage therapist Mike Maresca across the Canadian border and on a private plane back to Raleigh. Then, the Hurricanes had three games postponed in the week leading up to Christmas, minimizing the number of games Aho would miss while quarantined.

With a chance to further showcase himself in Beijing with Team Finland nixed after the NHL and NHLPA pulled out of the Winter Olympics because of COVID-19 concerns, Aho will have his success measured by how the Hurricanes perform this postseason.

After reaching the Eastern Conference Final in 2019, Carolina has been bounced in its second series in each of the last two postseasons. That certainly hasn’t been because Aho didn’t play up to expectations.

In 34 career playoff games — all from the last three years — he has 14 goals and 21 assists.

That makes him one of just six players in the league who have played more than 20 postseason games in the past three seaSee AHO, page B4

B2

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 22, 2021

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 COMEBACK PLAYER OF THE YEAR

‘Throwback’ Wilson returns to Wolfpack for 1 more year The NC State linebacker has fought injuries, but he can bolster both his draft stock and Dave Doeren’s defense with a big 2022 season

By Brett Friedlander North State Journal NOBODY would have blamed Payton Wilson for cutting his losses, cashing in and declaring for the NFL Draft while he still has some value left.

But the NC State linebacker wasn’t ready to do that.

Despite an injury history that may already have affected his draft stock, including a shoulder ailment that forced him to miss all but two games this year, the ACC’s leading tackler in 2020 has decided to roll the dice and return to the Wolfpack next season.

It’s a decision that should bolster a defensive unit that ranked as one of the best in the conference without him this year and led the sports staff of the North State Journal to predict him as its choice to be the Comeback Player of the Year in 2022.

“There is a lot to talk about my injury history and what would be smart,” Wilson said in an interview with the USA Today Network before announcing his decision.

“There are so many pros and cons with declaring. I know with these shoulder injuries, if I came back, I know what I would be able to do and raise my draft stock. But also, if I come back and get injured again, who knows what would happen.”

Wilson, a 6-foot-4, 235-pound wrecking ball from Hillsborough, was selected as the ACC’s preseason Defensive Player of the Year this summer after averaging 10.8

“He’s hungry and he’s ready to come back.”

NC State quarterback Devin Leary on linebacker Payton Wilson tackles per game with 3.5 sacks and a pair of interceptions a season ago.

Not only is he noted as one of the hardest hitters in the conference, but he’s also earned a reputation for being a trusted leader and a relentless competitor with a knack for always being around the ball.

“He’s a throwback,” Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren said. “He’s definitely like Jack Lambert and that old-school linebacker that’s just a vicious player. He plays extremely hard.”

That aggressiveness, however, has taken its toll on Wilson’s body.

He’s undergone two knee surgeries, the second of which forced him to redshirt his true freshman season at State. He suffered his first shoulder injury in the 2020 regular season finale at Georgia Tech, forcing him to miss State’s Gator Bowl game against Kentucky, then hurt it again while making a tackle early in the Wolfpack’s loss at Mississippi State on Sept. 11.

As painful as the injury was physically, it hurt Wilson almost as much to have to watch from the sideline as his teammates — led by his understudy Drake Thomas — put together a nine-win season that had State in the Atlantic Division race until the final game.

It’s an experience that has only added to his motivation now that his shoulder has been repaired by famed orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews and he looks to

make yet another comeback.

“For him, this injury was really tough,” Wilson’s roommate, quarterback Devin Leary, told the USA Today Network. “He had high expectations but he’s going to come a lot better. I’m excited for him and for the world to see. He’s hungry and he’s ready to come back.”

Wilson was given a third-round draft grade before his latest injury.

Where it goes from there will depend on how durable he proves to be in 2022.

He stands to make a lot of money if he can find a way to stay healthy. But that’s not why he’s chosen to come back for one final college season.

With virtually every other member of the defense also returning, Wilson’s sights are set squarely on helping State to its first ACC championship since 1979.

“This might sound corny and it might sound cliche, but (strength coach Dantonio Burnette) tells us every day that with team success comes individual success,” Wilson said at the ACC Kickoff preseason media event last July. “Nobody has higher expectations for myself than me, obviously. But I think that my whole focus, if I go out there and get one tackle but I help the team win, that’s way more important to me than if I go out there and have 20 tackles and we lose.

“The whole way that I look at the individual goals and individual success is that with team success comes individual success, and that’s been proven in the past.”

GERRY BROOME | AP PHOTO

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson decided to return to the Wolfpack for one final season.

108 Total tackles for Payton Wilson on 2020, including 11.5 for loss.

Both were the most on the Wolfpack defense that season.

AP PHOTOS

NC State linebacker Payton Wilson’s willingness to play with reckless abandon has made him one of the ACC’s top defensive players and an NFL Draft prospect — and has also likely contributed to injuries.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 22, 2021

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 TEAM OF THE YEAR

Charlotte FC brings MLS to soccer-starved city

B3

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 BOLD PREDICTIONS Every year, the sports staff of North State Journal (sports editor Cory Lavalette and reporters Brett Friedlander and Shawn Krest) look into our crystal balls and try and predict what some of the bigger news stories of the coming 12 months will be. Sometimes we get it right — like the Hurricanes winning the NHL’s Central Division in 2021 — and other times we’re flat wrong — uh, pretty much all our other predictions. But where’s the fun without the risk? Here’s what the stars are telling us for 2022.

BRETT FRIEDLANDER Deacons go dancing ACC basketball is suffering through its second straight down season, with some pundits suggesting that the conference could potentially be a one-bid league. While it’s true that there’s a major drop-off after Duke, the only ACC team currently in the national rankings, the cream will eventually rise to the top and at least four teams will be selected to play in the NCAA Tournament. One of those teams will be Wake Forest. Yes, the Deacons, who have bolstered their roster with four talented transfers, led by All-ACC candidate Alondes Williams and sharpshooting stretch four Jake LaRavia.

Coach Steve Forbes’ team finished the nonconference schedule with a 10-1 record and it’s no fluke. Given the struggles of its league rivals, Wake is headed for a top-four conference finish and a celebration on Selection Sunday.

Ickey pick for Panthers The Carolina Panthers are in desperate need of a franchise quarterback, but with Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett already gone by the time they go on the clock and few other attractive options, the team will once again look elsewhere in the first round of the 2022 draft. It’s a pick that will ultimately be helpful to whoever ends up under center — massive NC State All‑American left tackle Ikem “Ickey” Ekwonu. The 6-foot-4, 320-pound Charlotte native has recorded 67 pancake blocks for the Wolfpack this season while allowing only two sacks in 829 snaps. He is big, athletic, smart and durable, and his presence on the line would make an immediate impact on the Panthers’ offensive fortunes.

Omaha-bound again The NC State baseball team was one win away from playing for a national championship last June until a COVID-19 outbreak led to the Wolfpack’s sudden and controversial ouster from the College World Series.

Coach Elliott Avent’s team has lost several key members, including star outfielder Tyler McDonough and shortstop Jose Torres, but returns enough talent to make another serious run at the title. Full of motivation and loaded with live arms, including last year’s postseason star Sam Highfill, State will once again win its regional and super regional to earn a return trip to Omaha.

SHAWN KREST Taking one last Cut Former Duke football coach David Cutcliffe will turn down similar offers from Clemson, Texas and Notre Dame to take on a special assistant/ quarterback consultant role in his home state, with Nick Saban’s Crimson Tide. The announcement will be followed a few weeks later by top 2023 quarterback prospect Arch Manning committing to Bama to be mentored by the same man that worked with his uncles Peyton and Eli. Meanwhile, fellow veteran Triangle coach Mack Brown will head back into retirement following the 2022 season.

JAY LAPRETE | AP PHOTO

Yordy Reyna, signed as a free agent by Charlotte FC, is expected to provide offense for the team in its inaugural season.

“During the last two decades, Charlotte has experienced enormous energy and growth, which matches soccer’s explosive rise in popularity in the United States.”

Don Garber, MLS commissioner

The David Tepper-owned team, delayed by a year, will start its inaugural season in February

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE NORTH STATE Journal’s early pick for 2022 Team of the Year could also be considered the Rookie of the Year since it hasn’t played a game yet.

Charlotte FC will play its first Major League Soccer game on Feb. 26, at D.C. United. The MLS’s newest expansion team will then play its first home game at Bank of America Stadium on March 5 against the L.A. Galaxy. A crowd of 74,000 is expected, which would set an all-time MLS attendance record — not a bad way to make a debut.

The long-awaited reveal will end a process that began on Dec. 17, 2019, when Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper held an announcement in downtown Charlotte celebrating the successful expansion bid.

“During the last two decades, Charlotte has experienced enormous energy and growth, which matches soccer’s explosive rise in popularity in the United States,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “We are pleased to add David Tepper to our ownership group and look forward to working with him and his entire organization to launch Major League Soccer in the Carolinas.”

The leadership team had, of course, been busy long before that preparing Charlotte’s bid for a team. But when the city landed the team, the real work began.

Although the team’s inaugural season was pushed back a year from initial plans, Charlotte FC has unveiled its colors, name and team crest, as well as inking several sponsorship and partnership deals with companies in the area.

Charlotte FC found its coach in July, hiring Miguel Angel Ramirez, former coach of Brazil’s Porto Alegre International. The team interviewed more than 30 candidates and was surprised to end up with Ramirez.

“He was not on an initial list of candidates because we didn’t think, really, that we could get him,” team sporting director Zoran Krneta said.

The 36-year-old will become the youngest coach in MLS once Charlotte begins play.

“After a thorough review of many candidates, it was obvious to us that Miguel was the right person to lead our team,” Tepper said. “He is a process-oriented coach with a unique style of play and a proven ability to develop young talent.”

Earlier this month, the team’s roster began to take shape. Charlotte selected five players in the MLS Expansion Draft but promptly traded two of them away to amass more than $800,000

I guess you’d spell that Kzar?

After finishing his final season with Duke, coach Mike Krzyzewski will take a newly created position with USA Basketball to serve as the sport’s czar. Coach K will attempt to bring together decision-makers from the pro, college and high school/AAU levels to create a plan and direction for a sport that often seems to have none. Meanwhile, after one year of retirement, Coach K’s longtime rival, Roy Williams, will decide to wade into the world of TV, doing a weekly appearance on ESPN’s talk programs to discuss golf.

He’ll gradually be drawn into talking basketball as well, inadvertently putting long-distance pressure on UNC coach Hubert Davis, who struggles to get the Tar Heels back to the top of the polls.

Take me out to any ballgame With MLB mired in a labor war that will delay spring training and the start of the season, look for the minor leagues, including the Durham Bulls, to take advantage of being the only pro baseball show in town. Still struggling to pay bills following the COVID cancellation of the 2020 minor league season and tough times as things slowly went back toward normal in 2021, teams will take advantage of the sudden spike in interest, and we’ll likely see a spike in price inflation at the ballparks around the state, as well.

SILVIA IZQUIERDO | AP PHOTO

Miguel Angel Ramirez was hired to be the first coach of the MLS expansion team Charlotte FC, which starts play in February. in General Allocation Money (basically, money used to sign players in the MLS’s version of a salary cap).

That will, presumably, allow Charlotte FC to bring in some high-level talent that wasn’t available in the expansion draft pool.

Charlotte left the draft with Austin FC midfielder McKinze Gaines, Atlanta United’s Anton Walkes and D.C. United’s Joseph Mora.

The team has also jumped into the free agent pool, signing defenders Yordy Reyna and Harrison Afful.

Reyna has 24 goals and 19 assists in 100 MLS games.

“Free agency is a great opportunity for us to continue to add players with experience in this league, and adding Yordy to our attacking group is an important part of our roster build,” said Krneta. “He’s a very technical player with high energy that can play on both wings and brings a proven track record of attacking success in Major League Soccer.”

A 35-year-old from Ghana, Afful has played in 164 MLS games and also has World Cup experience.

“Harrison brings a wealth of experience into our locker room, and we’re excited to continue to add title-winning players to our inaugural roster. His production over the last six seasons in MLS is vital for us and he’s been a highly regarded defender around the league,” said Krneta.

“Across his stellar career, Harrison has been part of eight championships, both here in Major League Soccer and in Africa, and everyone at the Club will be able to lean on his leadership.”

The newcomers join a roster that now numbers 16 players and is still being shaped.

Regardless of who is wearing the uniform, the Queen City appears ready to embrace the state’s newest pro team. Area soccer fans have turned out in force for international matches held at Bank of America Stadium in recent years, and the groundswell of excitement continues to build as North Carolina enters MLS.

CORY LAVALETTE Hurricanes claim the Cup Sixteen years after he captained the Hurricanes to the top of the NHL as a player, coach Rod Brind’Amour will again lift the Stanley Cup when Carolina beats Colorado in six games to earn its second championship. The Hurricanes blow through the first two rounds, dispatching both opponents in a total of nine games, but Carolina needs seven games to knock off twotime defending champion Tampa Bay to set its date with the Avalanche.

The vote for the Conn Smythe Trophy is tight, but Sebastian Aho edges Frederik Andersen to win playoff MVP. Another Gibbs in Victory Lane After winning four of the 18 Xfinity Series races he entered in 2021, teenager Ty Gibbs gets his first Cup Series win when grandfather Joe Gibbs needs to replace an injured driver for the May 15 race at Kansas. Gibbs returns to the Xfinity Series for the rest of the year, winning a title just a month after he turns 20. With the drivers of all four of his Joe Gibbs Racing cars under contract in 2023, the elder Gibbs talks to one of them, Denny Hamlin, about getting a seat for his grandson for the following year. After some maneuvering, the 20-year-old Gibbs is hired to drive for Hamlin and Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing in 2023 — with the contingency that once a spot opens at JGR he will be reunited with his grandfather.

Davidson stars as Cinderella Anyone paying attention in December saw what Davidson was capable of when it beat No. 10 Alabama. But the Wildcats, as are most midmajors, are underestimated heading into the NCAA Tournament. Led by 71-year‑old coach Bob McKillop, Davidson wins 24 regular season games and the Atlantic-10 Tournament to earn a No. 12 seed in the Big Dance.

The Wildcats beat fifth-seeded Ohio State in the first round and then another potential Cinderella, 13th-seeded Colorado State, to advance to the Sweet 16. The slipper falls off when former Davidson guard Kellan Grady, who left one Wildcats team to join another at Kentucky as a graduate senior, scores 19 points to lead top-seeded UK to an overtime win over his former team. McKillop says he’ll be back for a 34th season in 2022-23, the final year of his contract.

VASHA HUNT | AP PHOTO

Davidson forward Nelson Boachie-Yiadom, center, hugs Davidson forward Luka Brajkovic (35) while forward Sam Mennenga (3) looks on as they celebrate the Wildcats’ 79-78 upset of No. 10 Alabama on Dec. 21 in Birmingham, Alabama.

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 22, 2021

B4

LOOK AHEAD: 2022 NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR

MIKE MCCARN | AP PHOTO

NASCAR unveiled the Next Gen Cup cars — from left to right, the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang and Toyota Camry — for the 2022 season during a May media event in Charlotte, and the cars will make their debut in February.

Next Gen car will reboot NASCAR Stock car racing enters a new — and more affordable — era starting in 2022

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal NORTH STATE Journal’s Newcomer of the Year is often either a teenager or 20-something who bursts on the North Carolina sports scene on an inevitable path to superstardom or a new coach brought in to turn around a team or replace a legend.

The staff’s prediction to emerge in 2022 has been talked about for years but technically hasn’t even had its first birthday. It’s also one of the fastest inanimate objects in sports.

Get ready for NASCAR’s Next Gen car.

The stock car racing governing body has often changed rules to increase safety and foster more competition, whether it was better chassis to keep drivers safe in accidents, restrictor plates to slow cars — and create pack racing — at superspeedways or changing how champions are crowned by adding and frequently tweaking an end‑of-season playoff system.

But with costs climbing, sponsors dwindling, ratings dropping and attendance tumbling at racing weekends across the country, NASCAR reimagined how teams build their cars and the costs associated with team ownership with its 2019 rules package.

The Next Gen car, from a technical standpoint, has several changes.

Among them is increased downforce created by adopting a rear diffuser, a first for NASCAR. The cars will also go from four-speed to five-speed manual transmissions and will use a transaxle — a combination transmission and rear axle unit — for the

first time. The cars also add new features that are more associated with other forms of auto racing, such as single lug nuts on larger 18-inch wheels (up from 15 inches) and clamp-on refueling hoses.

Driver seats will even be moved closer to the center of the car to enhance safety.

And while speeds will be similar (670 horsepower) the cars will have a much different look and feel. Aerodynamic packages will also vary from track to track, ending an era where teams used sim-

ilar cars for all tracks of similar sizes.

“It accelerates quick, it stops quicker, it turns quicker, it’s nimble,” Kurt Busch, who is joining the Michael Jordan/Denny Hamlin-owned 23XI Racing in 2022, said after testing the car at Charlotte Motor Speedway in November. “I don’t want to use the word ‘steroids’ — it’s just the car is more effective, and the car is more sensitive to changes and to feel. … You feel everything more vividly.”

Initially planned to roll out in

2021, the Next Gen car’s arrival was pushed back a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. But that didn’t stop a lot of new faces from jumping into NASCAR. Of course there was Jordan, who teamed up with Hamlin and brought on the Cup Series’ only black driver, Bubba Wallace, to pilot their new No. 23 car. 23XI Racing then obtained a second NASCAR charter, which guarantees teams a spot in every points race, and put Busch in that car.

Other newer teams like Track-

REBECCA S. GRATZ | AP PHOTO

Brad Keselowski, left, stands next to Jack Roush in front of the No. 6 Next Gen Ford Mustang that displays the new team name Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing, which will be called RFK Racing, on Nov. 16 in Concord.

AHO from page B1

FORBES from page B1

sons and averaged more than a point per game. Only four — Nathan MacKinnon (1.43), Nikita Kucherov (1.33), Mikko Rantanen (1.30) and Brayden Point (1.14) — have more than Aho’s 1.03 average. San Jose’s Logan Couture, with 20 points in 20 games, is the other.

More than anything, Aho’s competitiveness helps set the standard Brind’Amour wants from his players, which is why he was named an alternate captain at the start of this season.

“Guys look up to him in the room, and obviously his on-ice abilities just help his cause to being a good leader,” defenseman Jaccob Slavin, who also wears an A, said. “He’s passionate, he cares about the game, he plays the right way.

“Guys watch him play the game, it’s contagious and they want to be able to follow in his footsteps.”

With Aho leading the way, the Hurricanes have a chance to win their second Stanley Cup. The other championship team, back in 2006, was captained by his current coach.

And Brind’Amour is more than happy to hitch his team’s fate and his coaching legacy to a player who can “go against anybody.”

Because Forbes took over Wake’s program during a worldwide pandemic with only four returning players from the regime of previous coach Danny Manning, he was forced to scramble to assemble a patchwork roster filled with transfers and freshmen.

The process was made even more difficult by the NCAA’s prohibition on in-person recruiting.

Things only became more complicated when just two games into the season, the Deacons were forced to halt all basketball-related activities because of a COVID outbreak among their ranks, a setback from which they never completely recovered.

“Because of the situation with COVID, we couldn’t become a team,” Forbes said at this year’s ACC’s preseason Basketball Tipoff event. “Obviously Gonzaga, Baylor and those guys, they had great players. But they had a lot of guys back. Chemistry wasn’t a big issue for them. It was a huge issue for us because we had a new coach, we had new players.

“We couldn’t do anything. We couldn’t eat together, couldn’t be together, couldn’t even be in the locker room together. So it was very disjointed. There was no manual for that.”

Forbes said he doesn’t spend

a lot of time looking back at last season or feeling regret for how it unfolded. His current team is helping to erase whatever bad memories remain.

Thanks to transfers and other types of attrition, Forbes once again started out with just four returning veterans. This time, though, he and his Deacons had a full offseason to get to know each other and install his system the way he wants to play it.

It also helps that he hit home runs on virtually all his NCAA transfer portal acquisitions.

Williams, a 6-foot-5 wing who averaged 6.7 points per game at Oklahoma last season, has already put together back-to-back 34-plus point performances while twice winning ACC Player of the Week honors.

Indiana State transfer Jake LaRavia has lived up to his billing as a sharpshooting stretch four while also showing that he’s a skilled rebounder, passer and defender.

And the duo of big men Dallas Walton (Colorado) and Kadeem Sy (Ole Miss) has quietly become one of the most productive low post tandems in the ACC. “It’s like anything: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” Forbes said when asked what he saw in those players to convince him they’d be a good fit. “You’ve got to

“I don’t want to use the word ‘steroids’ — it’s just the car is more effective. …

You feel everything more vividly.”

Kurt Busch house Racing (Nos. 1 and 99) and Kaulig Racing (Nos. 16 and 31) added charters to create multicar teams.

The reason for all this interest?

The lowered cost associated with the Next Gen cars is expected to close the competitive gap and allow smaller teams to compete with powerhouses like Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Stewart Haas Racing and Team Penske.

NASCAR teams, rather than fabricating their own chassis and building their own parts, will buy everything, except for engines and body panels, from about two dozen suppliers. Think of it as the same system that has Goodyear supplying tires for all teams, but instead for most of the cars’ components.

That means fewer jobs in NASCAR garages — most of which are in and around Mooresville — and more affordable team ownership. But those savings won’t come until later because teams are building their seven-car fleets from scratch for this year, and there will certainly be a learning curve with all this new technology.

In an ever-changing sports landscape, NASCAR is trying to regain its footing and stay relevant. It starts with the Next Gen car’s debut in February.

“The bottom line of all this, and you’ll hear this from the drivers, is that this package with the Next Gen car puts it back in the drivers’ hands,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer, “and we’re excited about what that will do in 2022, for sure.”

ALLISON LEE ISLEY | WINSTON-SALEM JOURNAL VIA AP

The play of Oklahoma transfer Alondes Williams has helped Wake Forest coach Steve Forbes’ rebuild of the Demon Deacons turn the corner sooner than expected. evaluate what you see — use your eyes and listen to what people are telling you.”

Almost as important as talent is the ability of a player to accept coaching. To a man, each of the newcomers has bought into what Forbes has been selling.

“One thing we definitely learned from last year was what our identity is,” the Deacons coach said. “For me it’s more about knowing who you are every day, and we know that. And then it was recruiting. Go out and get

an ACC roster.

“It was a very busy spring and summer. We only brought four guys back. We have nine new players, but (now) we have a great balance of older guys and younger guys. This is the way I did it at East Tennessee State. You’ve got to stay old and you’ve got to stay athletic. We were neither last year, and I believe that we are this year.”

The results so far bear that out.

And as the calendar turns to a new year, it’s only just the beginning.

The 3 big questions nob

A7

normal

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home hina lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner in which C orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority Americans THIS WEEK, virus, according to members ofTHE theand fede ed to tell the world there were only “THIS IS DA around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this covered up its spread tr are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, Americans have ldwide panic, economic collapse and in it” (Psalm 118:24). catastrophe one way or another.

3,341 related deaths has led to wo Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. ce or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus thetoneed the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The e eing thrown out of work.

I know that during Inand order put the crisis causedVirginia’s

by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero millions of Americans needlessly orders go into June. ty of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask muted — after all, trends can easily reverse — but ayer at least $2.4 trillion in added working from home worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, United States over Gov.The has cost the U.S. taxp Here in North Democratic Roycrisis Cooper stated during normal.” questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to have abided by recommendations and orders.

The Reserve backup liquidity to the be glad” the Bible our 231-year history. At least fourainrecent the 20th century alone be that “we debt plus trillions more Federa coronavirus press can briefing just don’t know yet”asifin the of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to flu,” stay 1977 at home; they’ve practiced socialthe distancing hed U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve and dad, Easter directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong markets and financial outlets.

If th will extend into May. Since when did state’s stay-at-home orders They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept flu” without they’ve donned masks. und any of these emergency have to be thankful “Russian and the 2002 SARS outbreak.

There is evidence that the currency, we would not be able toa Perhaps If he it, questions should be asked as to the Wedoes needdecide to extend WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning per stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction inwithout expected hospitalizati Lenten and of rampant inflation and currency pandemic.

1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures immediate fear justification for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we COVID-19 know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy.

According to theseasons University of Washington Institu For me, my faith is government There is 100% agreement, outside oftransparency China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must do this out an abundance Easter of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those Metrics and Evaluation model most oft cited by m ant ways and decisions through making.

As I celebra and honesty originated in at Wuhan Province probably from the completely China has to pay for their aberr provide a all levels It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who sked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over and the unsanitary wet markets. administration, theand expected need for hosp plomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthians 1:4, whi Chernobyl. unregulated believe it Trump came of at a home economic financial means.

D fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermined become a ue ones like “we country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by over 120,000, orld of 21st century health, hygiene affliction, so that we biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the civilized scientific amount of timeexperts why models predicting hundreds of cases w hope that we13,000 willof thousands bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly and the number of ov unist regimes never take blame affliction, withcomm the co Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade.

Totalitarian are reliable.

— we need to once again enjoy of this state who when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand August by nearly 12,000. rse, because that is not what God.” That is what their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other or express sincere regret and rem To know date, what I’ve gone what the state has asked and then they along with ndetermined answers.

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

StateasRepublican have, too. living inand a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fatality and rate?c God’s example don’t and when reliability adversaries push back. gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society edhappens and then with details that give their statements believability. important because That it determines whether certain nt such asThe the Chernobyl this difficult Th The most direct waywere to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer is, unless an exogenous they to disaster corruption. financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat thosetime. ev church some services questions about We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue — S elieve that event, not the Staropportunities Wars confident we will em supposed from COVID-19 offers for a U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least half of their meltdown in 1986.

Some experts what theythe data and asking questioning when we can start getting back and many more Sponsored by ourselves, and our communities safe.

But we should also still continue more liberalized society that presumes wide sprea Sponsored by the dissolution of the Soviet In thisled same spiritt bit of remediation.

Let’sUnion first examine By what Emily Roberson production back in the States.

There is though approximately programor of are Reagan, directly to do, lastUnited I to normal they are$120 conspiracy theorists people who don’t.as afterdown our own asked, there to of ask questions about the State data,Journal because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock further. neighbors helping ne mightisbe the root academic corruption, North billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment in 1989. otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick. title of a recent study, to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen rates — Concord, the number of Cd temporary hernobyl.

In a high inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 China’s Since when did questioning government at all levels become aisbad “Academic Grievance Studies and the North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020 RALEIGH — The U.S. econostart getting back This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal.

Not in any way, the number of identified COVID-19 cases — but bp ady talking about the possibility to buy aare 3-D sacrifices are society comparison.

Senators inmoney Washington alr thing? That is what free citizens living in a free were supposed Corruption of Scholarship.”

The study wasstill my remains under threat from are people who shape, or form.

So while we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at and the denominator are likely wrong.

We don’t kn debt we owe them as one way toand get analysis health$1.2 caretrillion workers An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment in China ino over. of China forgiving toon do,half lastof I checked. done

by Areo, an opinion Survey finds NC a spike in inflation, shortages ofthis la- so-called same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with “newbillion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing people have actually died of coronavirus.

Some the sou yick. have caused US. the Don’t hold your today, or $60 China to “pay” for the damage digitalthe magazine.

By the way, Areo is short My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m bor and supplies and the potenbusinesses optimistic see” become aAreopagitica, badbut ask normal.” number beenbreath overestimated, given that classifi to happen your elected for a speech delivered bytial impact of the omicron vari- investment to the U.S. would costworried the U.S.about Treasury billion in has waiting Ifor a Chinese them$18 catching the virus, and I’m worried will.

After “Jubi y were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patients, untableJohn in tangible financial ways Miltoninto in defense of freefor speech.ant of the coronavirus. But for tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue hold Chinacan acc heading 2022 suffering fromin the H1N1 virusis(swine flu) representatives during the 2009topandemic, Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. now, Americans are spending free- decimal dust compared to the $6 trillion+ Marshall Plan we sources suggest the number is dramatically under are now this disaster.

I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has thatly, e, is my family.

Stacey Matthews also underisthe pseudonym Sister Toldjah manyas people are dying home. andwritten the economy forecast to undertaking d to operate as I’m responsible citizens of to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies in the RALEIGH — The It is at about timenot they expect way too memories of a painful experience I’d prefer to are repeat. something has gone drastically wrong expand at a 7% annual rate in the ed I will.

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

Even more importantly, we have no clue how ma ation. majority of respondents past. the world like any other modern n But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has in academia, especially within certainfinal three months of the year, a 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scientists suggest China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American to a rolling of NorthThey call fields withinsurvey the humanities. of this brings up “grievance studies,” where sharp rebound from the 2.1% pace business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret of identified that theycases could be an order of magnitude these fieldsbusinesses Carolina NealinRobbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavirus senior opinion efer notscholarship to repeat. is not so much based uponin the previous quarter, when the intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower number of people who have had and n the world and delta variant hobbled growth. launched in October st everyone has finding truth but upon attending to Employers in some industries, replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. expressed optimism for the social grievances.

Grievance scholars such as restaurants, bars, and hofuture of theiradministrators businesses and other bully students, tels, pulled back on hiring in Nodepartments into adhering and reported they were to their vember. By contrast, job growth worldview.

The worldview they promote is Jason remained solid in areas like transmeeting or exceeding neither scientific nor rigorous. Grievance portation and warehousing, which EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS revenue goals, to as studies consist of according disciplines such are benefiting from the growth of preliminary results from thestudies, sociology, anthropology, gender online commerce.

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race The fall in the unemployment state’s new Business Pulse studies. rate was particularly encouraging Survey.

In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, because it coincided with an inThe North Carolina started Lindsay and Boghossian flux of a half-million job-seekers NOAH BERGER | AP PHOTO Department of Commerce submitting bogus academic papers to into the labor force, most of whom academic journals in cultural, queer, quickly found work. Normally, Trucks line up to enter a Port of Oakland shipping terminal on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, administers the Pulse race, gender, fat and sexuality survey, in partnership withstudies many such people would take time in Oakland, Calif. to determine if they would pass peer to find jobs and would be counted the NCWorks Commission “THIS IS THEfallen DAYinto the lord has made, let usthe re seriousness of and the be virus and the review accepted for need publication. as unemployed until they did. The WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home place.

I understand andpeople myFutureNC, with the that influx of new job-seekers, if it con- bring inflation down without cre- (5.0%), and Construction (4.9%).

Acceptance of dubious research in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how who simply ask come atosurprisingly strong recovorders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans take precautions, but I’m uneas editors found sympathetic to their Duke Energy Foundation The North Carolina unemployating a recession? the isbig tinues, would help reduce the la- are ery from the short but intense panI know that during this challenging time of soc n thingsjournal can start getting back to having to adjustThat’s to what being called the “new normal.” questions about the data, and whe intersectional or postmodern leftist vision ment rate, which started 2021 at question for 2022.

This is a very bor shortages that have bedeviled demic recession? providing financial support working from home or losing a job, it may becircle diffi with contempt.

Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in some of the world would prove the problem of 5.9%, has fallen consistently 3.9 as the many employers since the econo- delicate balance.”

Unable totells assess its for the initiative.

Thewithout survey be to glad” Bible us to longer-term do. as However, as aasC a societylow simply must accept stay-at-home orders go into They’re treated though we academic standards. % byJune.

November. The state’s unem- consequences, Connaughton’s projects North my began to recover from the pan- Virginia’s businesses, con- me and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded oftelj s us about whenaims it’s safe to begin thepapers project tofake provide Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the government Several of the research Carolina’s economic growth in ployment rate is expected to hold sumers and policymakers have demic. to thankful and hopeful for, even in the m alcy. were insights into the state of The Fat “That’s good news for job seek- a2022 accepted for publication. recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t yet”the if be thestruggled process of returning back to norm through 2022know andhave end will see 14 of the state’s 15 steady to respond to the omiLenten and pandemic.cron threat, s, and we have the right to comes ask those Studies journal published a hoax year at 4.0%. economic sectors experience outand for businesses state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. the economy and in paperers and workers, No. The government works for which seems to be Since when did that argued the term bodybuilding was me, spooking my faith is an important part ofstay-atmy dai home orders are inof place allchange over the regarding longHowever, increases, with to theextend hospitaltoo,” said Julia Pollak, chief econo- put Easter seasons markets andthe investors If he does decide it, questions should be askedthe asFor to the questions.

And longer the wake rapid questioning andas should be replaced mist at online jobs term presence of these positive ity and leisure services projectsite ZipRecruit- justification more significantly than the deltafamily, making.

As I celebrated Easter with my hem get exclusionary in states, such Michigan, for it.

And the answers should not be vague ones like “we country, and the stricter some ofI tr provide a during the COVID-19as a fat-inclusive with “fat bodybuilding, ed to see the strongest growth at trends, Connaughton acknowledger. “It looks like the supply con- must variant. government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord “com eling isolated and/or anxious about do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting at home f message of impact omicron pandemic. politicized performance.” One reviewer unknown straints are easing a bit with the 9.2%. He projects similar gains in es the According to be anable index from those affliction, so that we may to comfort ng for their families, will demand at all levels It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who when they can get back to providi said, “I thoroughly enjoyed have that on the state’s recovery, North Carolina State University “We need timely inputreading this unemployment rate low and wage transportation/warehousing, edu- willhope we will affliction, with the comfort which we ourselves ar being to remain at home for an“much undetermined answers. article and believeleaders it has an importantgrowth high” become saying that it is early” that tracks cation andtold health services.jobless and — two factors that are a economic indicators to from business once again enjoy too God.” vels should be as forthcoming contribution to make to as thethey field and this amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders at the local and state le to predict the effect of future reThe jobs recovery continues to often encourage people to search forecast the direction of the state’s bad thing? ofvague diverse sectorsbut andanswer sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter season, again, not answers, journal.” to the virus, as concerns be reliable. unevenly distributed among sponses for work. are canbetween be with those answers and economy four and six I—urge industries across ourStruggle: Solidarity “Our Struggle Is My what reflect message and comforted, that ents believability. over renewed public health restricCon-what This is veryThat muchisin line with the concerts, family months ahead, not be much changed Tostate’s date, economic I’ve gone sectors, along with the state has asked and thenon this with details that give theirso statem Feminism as anfamilies, Intersectional Reply to state in order to gain a grow once had more. naughton said. what North Carolina business an- mandated from and September to all October 2021, God’sabout example comfort in need arou at we can to keep our free citizens that we do, but along thetions way I’ve also questions We should allthose continue to do wh gatherings, Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was The jobs outlook for the coming real impact of the COVID “The alysts are finding at the state levas the state came out of a spike inhelping o better understanding of this difficult time.

Through faith and by fe. But we should also still continue the data.

State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our communities s church living a free accepted for publication by Affilia, a el as we approach hasservices become hazier across we theinend of 2021 recession has been on employ- months COVID cases over theofsummer atconfident will emerge out this pandemic str cause while reasonable stay-at-home changing needs,” said Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is to ask questions about the data, b feminist journal for social workers. The country with the emergence of tributed to the delta variant. ment,” Connaughton said. “As of the and and look aheadsociety into 2022. many more were Inthose this same spirit, I continue to be inspired the by y shouldpaper also Commerce have an expiration N.C. Secretary a disturbing somevariant. peopleLittle to treat are understandable, consisted in part of adate. rewritten North Carolina’s economy is sometimes the omicron is definOctober 2021, the state’stendency level of among Andmeasures while North Carolina’s after our own supposed neighbors helping neighbors. d it is not normal.

Not inSanders, any way,Two other projected to grow passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back Machelle Baker This is all new to Americans, an itively known about omicron, and establishment employment is still 3.2% and add a prospects for a recovery year retemporary In Concord, high school senior named remainhoax vigilant and stay safe, at includingnet gain of 126,800 papers were published, widespread business over 70,000 lower than to do,new lastjobs I next tojust normal as though they are the conspiracy theorists or are shutdowns people who mainastrong, shape, or form.

Soconsumwhile weTanner shoul analysts say who is a member of both “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity money 3-D printer andwe plastic to make fa mfortable with this so-called “new are sacrifices considered unlikely. omi-to buy February 2020 high-water year, UNC Charlotte are ers’ amoods and time market response don’t care if they mark get themselves or others sick. Still, the same shouldn’t get co the NCWorks Commission checked.economics otherwise at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject cronover. could discourage some Amer4,626,600 jobs.” professor John Connaughton told ofSince a bitout unpredictable. health careremain workers of his own home. when did questioning government at all levels become a bad normal.” anddog-on-dog the myFutureNC was rape. But the dog rapestate legislators at a COVID recovThe hospitality and leisure sec- icans from traveling, shopping and is suggesting thing?

That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed “The Index Not one little bit. that paper forced“The Boghossian, ery hearing in November.

Boardeventually of Directors. tor establishment employment lev- eating out in the coming months the labor market in the state will last I checked.

Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out el do, is 49,000 jobs lower than the and potentially slow the economy.

Connaughton is director of to continue to improve, with new jobs data collected will help under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah My first concern ashe wesaid, go along in all this, of course, is my family.

I’m Matthews also written themselves.

A Wall Street Journal writer Will omicron cause outbreaks at February 2020 level, acEconomic Forecast, the N.C. added Stacey and reductions in has the jobeconomic development, dState and Insurrection. hadLegal figured out what they were doing. which UNC Charlotte’s Belk Col- worried them catching the virus, andand I’mports, worried I will.

After less rate,” and is a regular contributor to Re factories disrupt operacountingabout for two-thirds of the said Dr. Michael Walden, workforce development Some papers accepted for publication tions and worsen supply chain bot- the William Neal Reynolds Distinoverall lower Carolina jobs lege of Business produces quar- suffering fromNorth the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, and education agencies in academic journals advocated training tlenecksbecause that haveall forced up prices levelbeen thattrying still exists through terly. He has provided a further I’ve guished Professor Emeritus at NC to take extraOcprecautions, of this brings up men like dogs anddecisions punishing white male and contributedI’d toprefer the hottest U.S. tober. in-depth look ahead for North way make informed State University. too many memories of a painful experience not to repeat. college students for historical slavery by inflation in decades?

According to the report, all 14 Carolina’s continued economic reabout how to support what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has Walden added, however, that asking them to sit in silence on the floor in in his fourth quarter anal- ofBut Will it mean people will hun- the emergence of the highly transthe state’s nonagricultural ecocovery post-pandemic chains during classrecovery and to befor expectedysis to and forecast, released in De- nomic sectors are expected to ex- ker down at home again and missible omicron variant adds unemployers, learn from thejobseekers discomfort.and Other papers perience employment increases in spend less on services — restau- certainty to the future economic cember. celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life rant meals, concerts, hotel stays — conditions in the state. communities.”

Among hopeful business 2022. choice and advocated treating privately which could weaken the economy North Carolina employment is growth and employment numbers, “The virus still has a great The Pulse survey conducted masturbation as a form of Connaughton’s report points to expected to reach 4,712,900 by but potentially defuse inflationary deal to ‘say’ about the economy,” includes inputagainst from women. Typically, sexual violence two major unknowns heading into December 2022, an increase of pressures? said Walden. “We’re still coping businesses across thesend submitted academic journal editors Will return-to-office plans for with this virus. It’s really running 2022: inflation and the emerging 2.7% over December 2021. The papers to very referees for review. In omicron variant. state, out from large state is expected to add 124,400 white collar workers be put on hold the economy and has been over recommending acceptance “We know that inflation has net jobs next year. indefinitely, deepening the hit to the last two years. And it will conmajor employers to localfor publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing The sectors expected to have been here for the past six months,” many cities’ downtown business- tinue to run it in 2022.” small businesses, with praise. said Connaughton. “The Fed has the strongest employment increas- es? about halfscientist having Zach fewerGoldberg ranindicated it’s taking a different tack es in 2022 are Information (6.1%), Political Or will omicron prove a blip The Associated Press contributed certain studies concepts through than 10grievance employees.

The in 2022, but will that be enough to Hospitality and Leisure Services that scarcely slows what has be- to this report. the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often industry categories were they appeared in our press over the years. also diverse, He found huge including increases in the usages Professional and Business of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” “critical race theory” and “whiteness.”

Services, Manufacturing, And it is not just the resurAll of this is being taught to college gence of COVID that could hold Hospitality, Health Care, students, many of whom become primary the economy back next year. Inflaand Construction among and secondary school teachers who then tion has spiked to the highest levother sectors. indoctrinate our young people. el in nearly four decades, promptfrom the IFindings doubt whether the coronavirusing the Federal Reserve to start caused financial crunchresults will give college pulling back the massive amounts survey’s November and university administrators, who are a of support it has been providlargely echoed this mix crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, ant in the summer was blamed for from 7.8% to 7.3%, which would ing to the economy as it switches The Associated Press of optimism and ongoing the guts and backbone to restore academic much of the third quarter slow- still represent a sizable rebound from trying to boost job growth to concerns, and details respectability. Farmore too often, they get much from the third-quarter slowdown. fighting inflation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The down. of their political support from will be released through thecampusU.S. economy grew at a 2.3% rate Economists expect GDP growth After Sen. Joe Manchin voiced Now with the appearance of the grievance people who are members of the in the third quarter, slightly better omicron variant, coming on top of opposition to his party’s spend- this year to come in around 5.5%, N.C. Commerce website in faculty and diversity and multiculturalthan previously thought, the Com- high inflation and lingering sup- ing plans, Goldman Sachs cut its which would be the best showing coming months. administrative offices. merce Department said Wednes- ply chain issues, there are con- GDP forecast to 2% from 3% for since 1984 and a reversal from last Thebest Commerce The hope lies with boards of day. But prospects for a solid re- cerns that growth could be con- the first quarter, 3% from 3.5% year when the economy shrank trustees, though many serve as yes-men Department continues for the second quarter, and 2.75% by 3.4% and the global pandembound going forward are being strained heading into 2022. for the university president. I think that a ic erased 22 million jobs early in Those fears have sent the stock from 3% in third quarter. clouded by the rapid spread of the to recruit additional good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s Kathy Bostjancic, chief U.S. fi- the year. market on a turbulent ride in relatest variant of the coronavirus. businesses to join the catalogs. Look at the course offerings at The third and final look at the cent days, although new optimism nancial economist for Oxford, Wednesday’s report showed Survey -- knew how aBusiness time whenPulse college graduates performance of the gross domes- that the omicron risks will be said the firm’s current assess- that consumer spending, which to read,involves write andanswering compute, and maketic product, the nation’s total out- manageable sent the Dow Jones ment was that the resurgence of accounts for two-thirds of ecowhich them today’s curricula. Another helpful put of goods and services, was industrial average up 560 points COVID-19 could reduce growth nomic activity in the U.S., grew a brief, three-minute tool would be to give careful consideration next year from 4.3% to 4.1% and at a 2% rate in the third quarter, higher than last month’s estimate Tuesday.

The survey each month. to eliminating all classes/majors/minors All major U.S. markets rallied that if Biden’s Build Back Better down from the 12% surge in the of 2.1% growth. department to containing theseeks word “studies,” such as The new-found strength came this week, but all are in negative program is completely derailed, April-June quarter, but up from women, blackvoices or queer studies. primarily from stronger consum- territory over the past 30 days. includeAsian, business that could likely shave another 0.4 last month’s estimated quarterly I’d bet all that by restoring the traditionaler spending than what was previEconomists say it is far too ear- percentage points in 2022, lower- gain of 1.7%. from areas of the state academic mission to colleges, they would It is the uncertainty of what is ously thought, as well as business- ly to declare an all-clear on the ing it to around 3.7% and chop a and all business domains in put a serious dent into the COVID-19 es rebuilding their inventories threats posed by the new variant. half-point from growth in 2023, to come, however, that is now conthe survey. budget shortfall. cerning economists.

“History is repeating itself with reducing it to below 2%. more than initial estimates reIn addition to informing “The omicron variant poses a She said under these asthe COVID virus suddenly reapvealed.

Walter E. Williams is a professor of The 2.3% third quarter gain pearing and dampening economic sumptions, job growth could be downside risk in the near term as policymakers, results of economics at George Mason University. follows explosive growth that be- growth prospects,” said Sung Won 750,000 lower by this time next do supply-chain disruptions and the survey will also benefit gan the year as the country was Sohn, an economics and busi- year if economic growth slows as shortages that could be a conparticipating businesses by straint for households and busiemerging from the pandem- ness professor Loyola Marymount much as she fears. providing insights regarding “Omicron has been so ram- nesses over coming months,” said ic, at least economically. Growth University in Los Angeles. conditions being seen Oxford Economics has pant,” Bostjancic said. “We think Rubeela Farooqi, chief U.S. econsoared to 6.3% in the first quarter and 6.7% in the second quarter. trimmed its forecast for econom- it is going to take a pretty big toll omist at High Frequency Ecoby peer businesses and nomics.

The emergence of the delta vari- ic growth for the current quarter on economic activity.” industries throughout the state.

business & economy

Fixingn.c. college corruption FAST

FACTS

Business preview 2022: Strong forecast tempered by virus concerns A6

Approved Logos

north STA

VISUAL VOICES

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

US economy grew at 2.3% rate in Q3, up from earlier estimate

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B6

US health tab hit $4T as gov’t opened spigot to fight COVID The Associated Press For the week ending 12/17

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

xxx Add Receipts

xxxx Less Disbursements

xxxx Reserved Cash

$607,030,487 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$4,686,532,063 Loan Balance:

$440.3M Disaster reimbursements:

$9,824,135

2021 Google searches reveal tastes and activities across NC North State Journal staff Google has released its 21st annual “Year in Search”, posting hundreds of top-10 trending searches lists from all over the world. These lists show how we have collectively begun to recover and return to routines as the world opened up again.

Across the U.S., part of rebuilding has meant connecting with the community around you in ways we could not a year ago. This year you can see the top trending “near me” searches in N.C. as well as the top trending recipes throughout the state.

This data shows the top trending “near me” searches in the U.S., which means the “trending” queries are the searches that had a high spike in traffic over a sustained period in 2021 as compared to 2020.

Top Trending “Near Me” Searches in all of NC: covid vaccine near me covid testing near me movie theater near me gas near me aquarium near me zoo near me go karts near me jamaican food near me bowling near me best restaurants near me

Top Recipe Searches in NC: collard greens recipe potato soup recipe tomato pie recipe deviled egg recipe cabbage recipes chocolate chip cookie recipe banana pudding recipe guacamole recipe beef stew recipe alfredo sauce recipe By comparison, here are SC’s most searched recipes: green bean casserole recipe sweet potato pie recipe cranberry sauce recipe banana pudding recipe mac and cheese recipe deviled egg recipe tomato pie recipe black eyed peas recipe banana bread recipe chili recipe

And SC’s Top Trending “Near Me” Searches: covid vaccine near me covid testing near me movie theater near me things to do near me seafood restaurants near me vape shops near me gas prices near me car rental near me bars near me hair salon near me

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health care spending rocketed to $4.1 trillion last year as Congress opened the spigot of federal dollars to battle the coronavirus pandemic across multiple fronts.

A government report out Wednesday said national health spending jumped by 9.7% in 2020, more than double the usual growth rate, with health care accounting for nearly $1 of every $5 in the economy. The federal government share of health spending increased by 36%.

In a twist, that growth was driven not so much by care devoted to patients, but by federal subsidies to keep hospitals and medical providers solvent; funding to develop and deploy COVID tests, vaccines, treatments and countermeasures; and assistance to state Medicaid programs facing a potential wave of uninsured people in a public health crisis.

“The story that unfolded in 2020 and continues today is unlike anything that has happened in the past 100 years,” said the report by number crunchers at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Published online by the journal Health Affairs, the report is an annual yardstick measuring health care’s impact across the economy.

Last year, as elective surgeries got canceled and telehealth replaced office visits, Congress overwhelmingly approved bipartisan measures that pumped out tens of billions of dollars to keep the private health care system from collapsing.

Along with direct federal spending on COVID counter-

MATT ROURKE | AP PHOTO

A health worker administers a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine during a vaccination clinic at the Keystone First Wellness Center in Chester, Pa., Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021. measures and the Medicaid money for states, the strategy largely worked, said economist Douglas Holtz-Eakin, a former director of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office and longtime policy adviser to Republicans.

“The COVID cases precluded the hospitals from having their usual book of business,” said Holtz-Eakin. “The bailout money from the federal government was really important when the other sources just dried up.” A $122 billion Provider Relief Fund, through which hospitals could apply for taxpayer money to offset their losses, was the linchpin.

“When I look at 2020, it wasn’t perfect, but I think Congress deserves high marks for what they got done,” added Holtz-Eakin.

The $4.1 trillion tab for 2020 represents an increase of about $365 billion from national health spending in 2019. It works out to $12,530 per person.

In other highlights, the report found: — The number of uninsured people did not balloon with job losses, but held fairly steady at around 30 million. That confirms earlier reports from the Census Bureau. However, there was a shift in coverage, with fewer people covered through the workplace and more people getting their health care through Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplaces.

— Medicare rolls grew more slowly in the first year of the pandemic, but part of the reason was

that people were dying. “The deceleration was driven in part by increased mortality in the population age 65 and older on account of the pandemic,” the report said. Seniors accounted for 14% of COVID cases, but 80% of deaths.

— Increased federal Medicaid funding helped ease the financial burden of the pandemic on state and local governments. Health care spending financed at the state and local level decreased by about 3% in 2020. The federal share of Medicaid spending was about 69% in 2020, the highest percentage in the 50-plus years of the program.

— Out-of-pocket health care spending by individuals declined by 3.7%, a rare occurrence. That was largely due to postponed surgeries, dental care and diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopies. Employers who finance health insurance coverage for their workers also spent less.

“The bipartisan federal relief effort in 2020 was critical to shoring up the U.S. health system and helping millions of people stay insured during a national public health emergency — these data provide the hard evidence,” said health economist Sara Collins of the nonpartisan Commonwealth Fund, which works to expand access. “This is absolutely a story of a sweeping bipartisan federal relief effort that worked.”

But this year Americans are politically polarized over vaccine mandates and mask requirements, and COVID-19 is likely to have a continuing impact on U.S. health care spending.

“There will likely be notable effects from the widespread vaccination efforts that began in the spring of 2021 and from the emergence of the delta variant in the summer,” the report said.

“Uncertainty remains regarding how the pandemic may evolve during the winter months given the emergence of the omicron variant.”

NC YouTube star builds business of philanthropy The Associated Press GREENVILLE — The line of cars started forming at dawn. It was early November in Greenville, N.C., and drivers waited in a line that stretched for miles to pick up Thanksgiving turkeys — 10,000 free frozen birds to anyone who asked.

Who was behind this act of holiday kindness? A community foundation, perhaps? Or a food charity with deep pockets? Would you believe a young man who once spent 50 hours buried alive or went through the same fast food drive-thru 1,000 times?

Jimmy Donaldson — the widely popular YouTube video maker who goes by MrBeast — has built, alongside his fun viral stunts, an unusual charity playbook that leverages his fame and skills with the goal to end hunger. Philanthropy as entertainment.

“I want to feed millions of people on a monthly basis, tens of millions one day,” he tells The Associated Press. “I’m not stopping. I’m 23. I’ve got decades left in me and we’re not going anywhere.”

Donaldson — who has over 150 million subscribers on his combined YouTube channels — created the Beast Philanthropy channel last year at Thanksgiving and it donates 100% of its advertising revenue, brand deals and merchandise sales.

Beast Philanthropy has distributed over 1.1 million pounds of food, currently helps feed nearly 1,000 households in the Greenville area on a weekly basis and delivered over 9,000 hot meals for victims of Hurricane Ida in Louisiana.

The turkey giveaway — on Nov. 7 at the Pitt County Fairgrounds with almost 700 volunteers — featured turkeys donated by Jennie-O, which got plenty of shoutouts. The 4-minute video has been watched some 5 million times.

The event had music, student volunteers dressed in turkey costumes, local firefighters and police officers doing turkey dances, and plenty of turkey-themed jokes.

Some $266,000 worth of Jennie-O turkeys were handed out, the single largest donation in the company’s 80-year history.

“He’s entertaining and he makes giving back and these philanthropic tie-ins really cool to be part of,” says Nicole Behne, vice president of marketing at Jennie-O, whose kids are MrBeast fans and who attended the giveaway.

“It was incredible to see what the power of MrBeast can do to help not only the community members in need, but just to inspire others to give back with their time.”

BEAST PHILANTHROPY PRODUCTIONS VIA AP

This image released by Beast Philanthropy Productions shows Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, during a turkey giveaway at Pitt County Fairgrounds in Greenville, N.C. on Nov. 7 2021.

Kevin Scally, chief relationship officer at Charity Navigator, the world’s largest nonprofit evaluator, says MrBeast is part of an encouraging trend of social media influencers using their power to fight homelessness or raising COVID-19 relief funds.

“It’s actually quite brilliant for him to partner with food companies or technology companies, to be able to essentially act as a bit of an advertisement, but also able to leverage those funds to then actually do good in the world,” Scally says.

Donaldson has been combining doing good with humor since he started making YouTube videos a decade ago. He’ll feature videos of volunteers cleaning beaches or oceans alongside ones that investigate whether 50,000 magnets can catch a cannonball (spoiler alert: no) or recreate a non-lethal “Squid Game.” His main audience is in the 14-20 demographic and they’re learning how to have fun while helping.

“Jimmy is teaching an entire generation to be kind and more thoughtful, and I think that that’s going to have a massive impact in and of itself going forward,” says Darren Margolias, Beast Philanthropy’s executive director.

Donaldson’s rise to become one of the top YouTube personalities has been fueled by his decision to invest in himself. At the beginning, he described himself as “this awkward guy with a bunch of acne that no one cared about. I didn’t have any money, but I just kept going.”

A decade ago, users had to pull thousands of views a month to get

monetized on YouTube and Donaldson spent years rejected by the platform, until he was about 16.

Then, he says, it was “game over.”

“From literally the time I started making money at 16 until now, I just reinvested everything I made.

One dollar a day turned into two and then three. And then eventually I was making $10,000 a month then a $100,000 a month, then $1 million a month,” he says.

“I just want to make the best YouTube videos possible. I don’t really care about living in a mansion or driving a Lamborghini,” he adds. “I live to create content and I want to entertain people.”

He’s developed some rules along the way for success. “When it comes to going viral, the ultimate key is to give people something they can’t find anywhere else,” he says. “There are crazy things you can do that take effort, but don’t require a lot of money. Everyone can put in effort.

You just do something that hasn’t been done and you go all out.”

He and his team rely on a revenue system that rewards views.

YouTube puts ads on videos on its platform and it shares half the revenue with the creators. Donaldson says his videos average between 40 million to 100 million views and a 15-minute MrBeast video might mean three or four ads embedded in each. Ad revenue might not be much on each view, but at such volume it adds up.

He plows the ad money back into the operation and sometimes reaches out for brand sponsorships like Jennie-O. Other sources of revenue include his mer-

chandise sales and profits from his ghost kitchen MrBeast Burger line.

“In our case, we reinvest it all.

So year over year, whatever we make, we just spend it on videos and the next year is higher. And I just keep doing it and I just pray it keeps working,” he says.

The Beast Philanthropy channel doesn’t attract the same viewership as some of his other channels but it’s growing as more videos are added. Donaldson welcomes any brand that wants to team up with him to end hunger, saying “it’s a win-win as long as people are getting help.”

“It gets interesting because by watching the videos of us feeding people, you’re allowing us to feed more people,” Donaldson says. “So I want to see how big can we get that? Can we get it pulling views like my main channel?”

Margolias and MrBeast Philanthropy plan to widen out from eastern North Carolina. According to a filing with the IRS, the group intends “to rapidly expand throughout the country and eventually around the world,” using mobile food pantries in underserved communities. It’s ambitious but don’t count them out. At its helm is a guy who’s not materialistic and is a self-described hyper-obsessive workaholic.

“Jimmy doesn’t do anything like anybody else does, which is an amazing blessing to work for him and also a very stressful job because we’re always growing,” Margolias says. “I absolutely love it. But every time we accomplish something, Jim’s like, ‘OK, what do we do next?’”

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B7

2021 Hyundai Elantra

Basic motoring isn’t so basic anymore Packed with features and technology

By Jordan Golson North State Journal SAN DIEGO — I didn’t get my first new car until well into my late 20s. Everything before that was used in some form, and I was very excited to pick up that new car.

It was a Mazda3 hatchback, and, if I remember correctly, it was around $21,000. It was a reasonably entry-level car but still wellequipped with Bluetooth and a rev-happy 2.5-liter engine mated to a six-speed manual. It was the epitome of the Zoom-Zoom slogan Mazda was using, and it even said Zoom-Zoom when you turned it on. Cool!

If I were buying my first new car today, I think I’d be astonished by the number of features packed into a base sedan like the Hyundai Elantra. The Elantra competes with vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Nissan Sentra and, as it happens, is my test car this week.

I had a full-loaded Elantra Limited that weighed in at $26,600 out the door. As is typical with Hyundais, there aren’t many options (mine had carpeted floor mats for $155). Instead, there are several trims depending on whether you want Good, Better, or Best.

Even the base Elantra SE includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic avoidance, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and even a highway driving as-

PHOTOS COURTESY HYUNDAI

The exterior of the Elantra is one of the best in its class. It looks modern, with creases and edges that make the car look pricier than it is. The rear is especially interesting, with a spoiler and rear lights that look almost tucked into the sheet metal. I’m not sure how to explain it, but I love the look.

There are a lot of good-looking cars these days, but the Elantra feels a cut above both inside and out. And, with a 5-year/60,000mile bumper-to-bumper warranty plus a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a first new car.

But suppose you’re looking for something a little more exciting.

In that case, Hyundai also makes the Elantra N. I wrote about the Kona N a few weeks ago, and the Elantra N includes the same 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft turbo 2.0L. Still, it also has an option for a 6-speed manual if you’re looking for something a little more direct.

I’d go for the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, but it’s also nice to have the choice. And, like the Kona N, the Elantra N sports an incredible new exhaust system that is full of pops, bangs, and crackles, and might be the best sounding four-cylinder engine you can buy.

The manual Elantra N is available for just $32,925 (with a $1,500 premium for the dual-clutch automatic), which makes it one of the best performance-to-dollar ratios you can find.

All in, the Elantra is one of my favorite affordable small cars.

Whether you’re looking for your first new car or something to commute with, it’ll take good care of you for years to come — just like that Mazda3 hatchback took care of me.

sist that handles a good amount of steering on the highway. That last feature is something that many cars don’t have at twice the price.

Mine had a 2-liter four-cylinder engine making 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is not fast, but it’s more than adequate. And it gets 35 mpg combined which is solid for folks on a budget. There’s also a hybrid version that starts at around $24,000 (very similar to the Toyota Corolla Hybrid, in fact) that sports 54 mpg combined.

Forget Bluetooth. The Elantra comes with an 8-inch touchscreen (10.25-inch on the Limited), CarPlay and Android Auto. Weirdly, the lower-trims get wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, but the larger-screened Limited only supports wired.

I’m a huge fan of current Hyundais, and it continues with the Elantra. The interior is well laid out with a driver-focused cockpit. There are easy-to-use knobs for climate control and radio, and there’s a well-considered spot for

your phone with wireless charging in front of the shifter and wellplaced cupholders. And, if you’re an enthusiastic driver, there’s a grab handle for your passenger too.

It also includes Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car setup and Hyundai Digital Key, where you can use your Android phone as a car key. That makes for a full suite of tech and safety features that used to be found only in luxury vehicles, and now it’s available starting in the low-$20,000 range.

Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on January 3, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Concord in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain Lot or Parcel of land situated in the City of Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in No. 3 Township, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, on the North side of Bradford Road (State Road 1604, formerly known as Old Tulin Road), adjoining the property of Robert P. Burrage, Dave B. Martin and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an existing iron pin in the North side of Bradford Road, corner of Robert P. Burrage (see Deed Book 535, Page 532) and runs thence with the line of Burrage N. 3 degrees 11 minutes 45 seconds W. 356.28 feet to an existing iron pin, a corner of Burrage in the line of Johnston (now or formerly); thence with the line of Johnston N. 55 degrees 00 minutes E. 272.2 feet to an iron pin, corner of Dave B. Martin (see Deed Book 588, Page 31),; thence with the line of Martin S. 2 degrees 47 minutes E. 472.6 feet to an iron pin, a corner of Martin in the North edge of Bradford Road; thence with Bradford Road S. 80 degrees 00 minutes W. 229.0 feet to the beginning, containing 2.18

acres as surveyed by Zackie L. Moore, Registered Land Surveyor, February 23, 1985, and updated by Billy B. Long, Registered Land Surveyor, December 18, 1985, and August 27, 1987. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8570 Bradford Road, Northwest, Concord, North Carolina.A.P.N. #; 46827311820000 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

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

disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk

of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on January 5, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Swann McClure and Ruby Lee M. McClure, dated October 19, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $65,450.00, and recorded in Book 6321 at Page 338 of the Cabarrus County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 144 Madison

Ave Northeast, Concord, NC 28025 Tax Parcel ID: 56217340710000 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Ruby Lee M. McClure And Being more commonly known as: 144 Madison Ave Northeast, Concord, NC 28025 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Ruby Lee M. McClure.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities

arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are

a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice 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 notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is December 17, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 21-111418

TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 18 SP 619

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Randall Reid Cruse (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Randall Reid Cruse) to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated June 16, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 11469, at Page 217 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,

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CABARRUS COUNTY 21SP318 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY SWANN MCCLURE AND RUBY LEE M. MCCLURE DATED OCTOBER 19, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6321 AT PAGE 338 IN THE CABARRUS 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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1252259 - 21631

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B8 TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 281

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by David Bergeron and Linda A. Tucker (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David Bergeron and Linda A. Tucker, Heirs of David Bergeron: Mark Bergeron) to Jay Kevin White, Trustee(s), dated June 22, 1999, and recorded in Book No. 02580, at Page 0210 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 424

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Warren K. Linker and Janice S. Linker (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Warren K. Linker and Janice S. Linker, Heirs of Janice S. Linker: Steven F. Jenkins, Michael Jenkins; Heirs of Steven F. Jenkins: Tammy J. Jenkins) to Trusteee Services of Carolina, LLC, Trustee(s), dated March 26, 2005, and recorded in Book No. 5912, at Page 36 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

CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 19SP78 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY BERNARDINE B. COUEY DATED JULY 12, 2013 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 9243 AT PAGE 317 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default

21 SP 275 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Matthew Stephen Davenport a/k/a Mathew Stephen Davenport to David W. Allred, Trustee(s), which was dated December 27, 2007 and recorded on December 31, 2007 in Book 7777 at Page 673, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

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

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 January 5, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Davidson in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 59 of Frazier Acres Subdivision, as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 22, at Page 33, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6036 Frazier Drive, Davidson, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court

costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00),

whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 4118 - 14724

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 January 5, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Concord in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain Lot or Parcel of land situated in No. 10 Township, Cabarrus County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Lying and Being in No. 10 Township, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and Being Lot No. 17 of the subdivision of “Briarwood”, a map of which is recorded in Map Book 16, Page 19, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, to which map reference is hereby made for a more complete description as to metes and bounds. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7309 Sagebrush Circle, Concord, North Carolina.

Address: 7309 Sagebrush Rd.; Concord, NC 28025 Tax Map or Parcel ID No.: 10001-0016.230000 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale

for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 4693 - 17471

in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 1:00PM on January 5, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Bernardine B. Couey, dated July 12, 2013 to secure the original principal amount of $147,959.00, and recorded in Book 9243 at Page 317 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 4 6 4 5

Hummingbird Pl, Fayetteville, NC 28312 Tax Parcel ID: 0477-14-1532 Present Record Owners: Bernardine Couey And Being more commonly known as: 4645 Hummingbird Pl, Fayetteville, NC 28312 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Bernardine Couey.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to

all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the

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

The date of this Notice is November 17, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 19-105209

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 5, 2022 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 18, Block “I”, in a subdivision known as Revision and Recombination of Lots 5 and 18, Block “I”, of Kornbow Lake Development, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 98, Page 14, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Matthew Stephen Davenport.

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

superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole

discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 21-02431-FC01

Statutes §45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the

sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 7040 Kittridge Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314. Tax ID: 0408-02-3193 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part

thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property are Jennifer Seidel, Joshua Ember, Lynetter Noykos, Jeffrey Charles Terrian, Amy Michele Antor.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General

courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on January 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Premises in Carver’s Creek Township, Cumberland County, North Carolina, described as follows: Being all of Lot 11 of Block D of the West Area Heights, Section 2, Subdivision as shown on plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 27, Page 67, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5027 Onslow Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in

the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1985 - 4163

12:00 PM on January 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hope Mills in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Premises in Rockfish Township, Cumberland County, North Carolina, described as follows: Being all of Lot 167, Southview, Section One, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 88, Page 178, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 800 Connaly Drive, Hope Mills, North Carolina. **FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY** The improvements thereon being known as 800 Connaly Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348.

BEING the same property conveyed to Norris F. Bonner and Annette B. Bonner from Harrell Construction Company, Inc. by Deed dated November 15, 1996 and recorded November 18, 1996 in Book/Volume/Page Book 4578, Page 43, as Instrument # in the Land Records of Cumberland, NC Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the

purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 3410 - 8796

door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on January 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the City of Fayetteville, Seventy First Township, Cumberland County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot No. 117, in a subdivision known as Beaver Run, Section Three, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 76, Page 76, Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 933 Flintwood Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

P.I.D.#: 9487-27-3533 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars

($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in

the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 3781 - 12516

situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point in the center of North Carolina Hwy 53 as it runs in a Northwesterly direction from White Oak to Fayetteville, said beginning point being the Southeast corner of the 7.33 acre tract of land heretofore conveyed to John Ervin Robinson and wife, Viola C. Robinson by deed dated May 25, 1977 recorded in Book 2598, Page 890, Cumberland County Registry and running thence with the center line of said North Carolina Hwy 53 S 32 degrees 19 minutes E 136.5 feet to a stake; thence a new line S 71 degrees W 187.00 feet to a stake; thence another new line N 28 degrees 30 minutes W 128.00 feet to a stake; thence N 68 degrees 30 minutes E about 185.00 feet to the beginning point and being a part of the land described in the deeds to Maggie Burns Cooper as recorded in Book 2369, pages 145 and 151 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. The foregoing description is from a recent survey by Kenneth L. Harris. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8240 Cedar Creek Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

This being the same property conveyed to Ditech Financial LLC, by Substitute Trustee’s Deed of record in Book 09993

Page 0051-0052, Inst. #37052 recorded on December 2, 2016.

This being the same property conveyed from Ditech Financial LLC, to Franzine Denise Holley, which deed is recorded.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

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

all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk

of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 4102 - 14629

This conveyance is made subject to restrictive covenants, easements, and rights-of-way of record.

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

Said property is commonly known as 1507 CONVERSE CT, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY

21 SP 327

Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00 P.M. on January 11, 2022, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit:

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Charles Martin Terrian, in the original amount of $158,000.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Residential Mortgage Corp., dated April 20, 2009 and recorded on April 24, 2009 in Book 8132, Page 70, Cumberland County Registry.

BEING all of Lot 638, in a Subdivision known as Devonwood, Section 2, Part 1, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 39, Page 25, Cumberland County Registry.

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 66

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Danny Thomas and Ermanese Thomas (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Danny Thomas and Ermanese Thomas) to Landscape Title and Escrow, LLC, Trustee(s), dated February 9, 2016, and recorded in Document No. 04630, in Book No. 09806, at Page 0217 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 522

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Norris F. Bonner and Janice Bonner (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Norris F. Bonner) to Chicago Title, Trustee(s), dated December 4, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 09776, at Page 0630 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 17 SP 1005

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Fern E. Clark (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Fern E. Clark) to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated May 8, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 09647, at Page 0729 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 242

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Franzine Holley (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Franzine Holley) to Joseph H. Kelly, Trustee(s), dated February 13, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 10054, at Page 0691 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on January 3, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee By: ________________________________________ John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B9

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 21SP14 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DANIEL T. HAYES, SR. AND SHARON HAYES DATED JUNE 2, 2009 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8166 AT PAGE 811 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Publication Dates: December 29, 2021 and January 5, 2022 21 SP 630

Under and by virtue of power of sale granted to Petitioner pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C3-116 under a Claim of Lien filed on October 8, 2019 in Cumberland County File Number 19 M 841 (the “Lien”) against Carlton Clark, Jr. (“Respondent”), by Karen Lake Condominium Owners Association, Inc. (“Karen Lake”).

As the beneficiary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C-3-116, Karen Lake seeks to foreclose the Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondent defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien and the undersigned, J. Haydon Ellis, Trustee, having been substituted as Trustee in said Claim of Lien by an instrument filed with the Cumberland County Clerk of Superior Court on September 21, 2021. The undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 653

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Doris A. Rich (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Doris A. Rich, Heirs of Doris A. Rich: Ronald Rich, Soraya Rich, Jamal A. Rich) to Law Firm of Jamie Faye Newsom, Trustee(s), dated January 5, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 7470, at Page 248 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on January 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest

DAVIDSON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION DAVIDSON COUNTY 21SP262 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ALVIN I BERKOWITZ AND CHRISTINE BERKOWITZ DATED JULY 12, 2019 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2365 AT PAGE 308 IN THE DAVIDSON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in

19 SP 627 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DAVIDSON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Charlie V. Winn and Wendy Carol Boan Winn to TRSTE, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated December 11, 1995 and recorded on December 11, 1995 in Book 968 at Page 1276 and rerecorded/ modified/corrected on January 17, 2017 in Book 2253, Page 947, Davidson County Registry, North Carolina.

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

19 SP 543 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DAVIDSON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Robin Ann Van Pelt to PBRE Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated January 22, 2013 and recorded on January 24, 2013 in Book 2088 at Page 107, Davidson 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

20 SP 118 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DAVIDSON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Gail D. Brice to Gary L. Lackey, Trustee(s), which was dated July 17, 2000 and recorded on July 18, 2000 in Book 1191 at Page 0086, Davidson County Registry, North Carolina.

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 346

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Luther G. Brown, Jr. (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Luther G. Brown, Jr., Heirs of Luther G. Brown, Jr. a/k/a Luther Brown, Jr.: Paul David Brown) to Law Office of Clint Calaway, Trustee(s), dated February 2, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 2255, at Page 2431 in Davidson 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 Davidson 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

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 628

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by James D. Smith (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): James D. Smith, Heirs of James D. Smith: Helen Marie Stegall Smith, Randall Dean Smith, Leslie Renee Smith, Jeffrey Alan Smith) to Chris Cope, Trustee(s), dated April 17, 2009, and recorded in Book No. RE 2885, at Page 942 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on July 19, 2016, in Book No. RE 3297, at Page 2717, 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 the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on January 11, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Daniel T. Hayes, Sr. and Sharon Hayes, dated June 2, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $176,248.00, and recorded in Book 8166 at Page 811 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2529 John

McMillan Rd, Hope Mills, NC 28348 Tax Parcel ID: 0 4 3 1-2 75809 Present Record Owners: T. Daniel Hayes, Sr. and Sharon Hayes And Being more commonly known as: 2529 John McMillan Rd, Hope Mills, NC 28348 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Daniel T. Hayes, Sr. and Sharon Hayes.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities

arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are

a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice 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 notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

For additional information, please see Auction.com.

The date of this Notice is November 10, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 12-035136

12:00 PM on January 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Unit No. TWO (2), Building No. FIVE (5), Phase III, as shown on a plat or plats entitled Karen Lake Condominiums, recorded in Condominium and Unit Ownership File Book 4, at Page(s) 187-190, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description.

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 CORA, Inc. 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 expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and payoff of the lien without

the knowledge of the Trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit.

The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 Rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the Respondent has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

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

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. TRUSTEE

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security

agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of

the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on January 3, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Davidson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Alvin I Berkowitz and Christine Berkowitz, dated July 12, 2019 to secure the original principal amount of $179,685.00, and recorded in Book 2365 at Page 308 of the Davidson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 1 1 5

Woodlawn Drive, Lexington, NC 27292 Tax Parcel ID: 1115400010022 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Christine Berkowitz And Being more commonly known as: 511 Woodlawn Drive, Lexington, NC 27292 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Christine Berkowitz.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 10, 2022 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Davidson County, North Carolina, to wit: BEGINNING at a railroad spike in the centerline of SR 2294 (commonly known as Holloways Church Road), the said railroad spike being located 0.15 mile from the centerline of intersection with Briggs Road, SR 2299, and the said railroad spike being a corner to Roger Hunt, Book 625, page 704; thence, with Hunt, South 00 deg. 50 min. 48 sec.

East 513.88 feet to an iron pin found in the northern line of Clyde Edinger, Book 601, page 276, third tract; thence, with Edinger’s said line, North 86 deg. 15 min. 40 sec. West 95.78 feet to an iron pin found at William Parker’s southeast corner; thence, with Parker’s eastern line, North 03 deg. 51 min. 25 sec. West 532.73 feet to a railroad stake found in the centerline of Holloways Church Road; thence, with the centerline of the said road, South 79 deg. 03 min. 21 sec.

East 126.12 feet to the BEGINNING, containing 1.309 acres, according to a plat of survey prepared 12.4.95 by J. Todd

Everhart, Registered Land Surveyor, L-3558, as his Job no.

951793.

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

Said property is commonly known as 2964 Holloway Church Road, Lexington, NC 27292.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes,

special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Charlie Vance Winn.

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.

Property Address: 1837 2 Sardonyx Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303 Parcel Identification No.: 0418-58-8791-003 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §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 NCGS §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and

bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hope Mills in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 28, Property of R.C. Chance and J.D. Dove, the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 37, Page 32, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5441 Parkton Road, Hope Mills, North Carolina.

Property address: 5441 Parkton Road Hope Mills, NC 28348 Parcel ID# 0413-56-6927-

BY:

J. Haydon Ellis

Attorney at Law

Hutchens Law Firm

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1274306 - 11332

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

The date of this Notice is December 14, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 21-111754

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-20481-FC01

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 10, 2022 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Davidson County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED as Lot Number 12, as shown on the Plat of WINTER GARDEN - PHASE 2B, as recorded in Plat Book 58, page 74, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of DAVIDSON County, North Carolina, reference to said plat is hereby made for a more particular description.

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

Said property is commonly known as 6718 Planters Drive, High Point, NC 27265-7983.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Robin Ann Van Pelt.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return

of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-17528-FC01

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 10, 2022 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Davidson County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, of MIDWAY ACRES, Block F, as shown on a map of same recorded in Plat Book 11, page 26, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Davidson County, North Carolina.

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

Said property is commonly known as 353 Hill Street, Winston Salem, NC 27107.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE

EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Gail D. Brice.

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.

the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

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.

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

door in Lexington, Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:30 AM on January 5, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Thomasville in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lots 35, 36, 37 and 38, Block A, Lakeview Estates, as recorded in Plat Book 9, Page 73, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Davidson County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 210 Lakeview Drive, East, Thomasville, North Carolina.

this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased 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

in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:15 PM on January 5, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lewisville in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED as Lot(s) 1, as shown on the map of SEQUOIA PLACE, SECTION 1, which map is recorded in Plat Book 28, page 191, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which map is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 801 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Lewisville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 10-38765-FC06

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 4534 - 16710

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 2651 - 6152

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B10 TAKE NOTICE

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 17 SP 1502

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by David Wheeler, Jr. and Nivea Maria Costa (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David Wheeler, Jr.) to Pat Piper, Trustee(s), dated June 19, 2015, and recorded in Book No. RE 3236, at Page 3516 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston-Salem,

JOHNSTON 21 SP 329 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael J. Mullen and Liza M. Mullen to Old Republic Title Residential Information Services, Trustee(s), which was dated June 24, 2016 and recorded on June 29, 2016 in Book 4788 at Page 506, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

Defaulthavingbeenmadeofthenotetherebysecuredbythe 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,

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 12

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Danial Moowad, Said Moowad and Nancy Nasr (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Danial Moowad and Said Moowad) to Clifton & Singer, Trustee(s), dated August 31, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 3191, at Page 376 and re-recorded in Book No. 3210, at Page 191 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Johnston County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on January 4, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Smithfield in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of a 1.707 acre tract of land located on the southeastern side of NCSR 1501 in Smithfield Township, Johnston County, North Carolina, being described

21 SP 329 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael J. Mullen and Liza M. Mullen to Old Republic Title Residential Information Services, Trustee(s), which was dated June 24, 2016 and recorded on June 29, 2016 in Book 4788 at Page 506, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

Defaulthavingbeenmadeofthenotetherebysecuredbythe said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January

21 SP 68 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Ralph W. Daniels and Kenneth W. Hicks a/k/a Kenneth Hicks to Jacqueline B. Amato and Philip M. Rudisill, Trustee(s), which was dated September 9, 2016 and recorded on September 9, 2016 in Book 4829 at Page 311, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

Defaulthavingbeenmadeofthenotetherebysecuredbythe said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 10, 2022 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 15 SP 1078

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Douglas Michael Wittenborn and Nicole Wittenborn (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Nicole Wittenborn) to CB Services Corporation, Trustee(s), dated March 4, 2009, and recorded in Book No. 3191, at Page 656 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 164

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Brian J. Coutant and Kelsey D. Coutant (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Brian J. Coutant and Kelsey D. Coutant) to Scott Korbin, Trustee(s), dated October 23, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 4726, at Page 214 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 73

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jonathan D. Gardner and Delma Gardner (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jonathan D. Gardner and Delma R. Moreno) to James R. Seely, Trustee(s), dated August 21, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 4831, at Page 57 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:15 PM on January 5, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Clemmons in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 103, Section 3, Phase 3, Waterford Subdivision, recorded in Plat Book 35, Page 134, Forsyth County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8412 Kinsale Court, Clemmons, North Carolina.Parcel ID Number: 5883-360539.00 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers,

the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 4, 2022 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit: SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CLEVELAND, COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA: BEING ALL OF LOT 417, WAVERLY POINT SUBDIVISION, PHASE 4, AS DEPICTED BY PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK64,PAGES29-34,JOHNSTONCOUNTYREGISTRY. BEING BY

THE SAME GENERAL

PROPERTY CONVEYED WARRANTY DEED

GRANTOR: HOMES BY GREG JOHNSON INC. GRANTEE: MICHAEL J. MULLEN AND WIFE LIZA M. MULLEN DATED: 07/30/2004 RECORDED: 07/30/2004 DOC#/BOOK-PAGE: 02738-0708

according to a survey dated July 2, 1998 captioned “Minor Subdivision Map for Michael Todd Moore” prepared by Dennis Ray Blackmon, RLS and recorded on July 13, 1998 in Plat Book 52, page 294 of the Johnston County Registry and said tract of land is more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an existing iron pipe found in the centerline of NCSR 1501 which beginning point is located approximately South 56 degrees 13 minutes 03 seconds West 270.95 feet from the centerline intersection of NCSR 1501 and NCSR 1578, thence from said beginning point leaving the centerline of NCSR 1501 along the line of a 30 foot access and utility easement and the line, now or formerly, of Robert O’Neal Amick lands South 32 degrees 17 minutes 20 seconds East 296.47 feet to an existing iron pipe (control) a common corner of Robert O’Neal Amick lands and a 2.107 acre tract of land owned, now or formerly, by Michael Todd Moore; thence following the line of lands of Michael Todd Moore along a heavy wire fence South 47 degrees 20 minutes 29 seconds East 251.09 feet to a new iron pipe, a new corner in the Moore 2.107 acre tract; thence continuing along the heavy wire fence and the Moore tract South 14 degrees 34 minutes 12 seconds West 162.18 feet to a new iron pipe, a new corner in the Michael Todd Moore 2.107 acre tract and a point in the line of the lands, now or formerly, of J.R. Maynard; thence along a wire fence and the line of lands, now or formerly of J.R. Maynard North 87 degrees 28 minutes 15 seconds West 189.45 feet to an existing iron pipe, a corner; thence along a wire fence and the J.R. Maynard lands North 07 degrees 04 minutes 55 seconds

4, 2022 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit: SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CLEVELAND, COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA: BEING ALL OF LOT 417, WAVERLY POINT SUBDIVISION, PHASE 4, AS DEPICTED BY PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK64,PAGES29-34,JOHNSTONCOUNTYREGISTRY. BEING BY

THE SAME GENERAL

PROPERTY CONVEYED WARRANTY DEED

GRANTOR: HOMES BY GREG JOHNSON INC. GRANTEE: MICHAEL J. MULLEN AND WIFE LIZA M. MULLEN DATED: 07/30/2004 RECORDED: 07/30/2004 DOC#/BOOK-PAGE: 02738-0708 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior

cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit: Lying and being in Johnston County, North Carolina, and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a stake in the building line on the east side of Howell Street, northwest corner of Douglas N. Morgan’s lot, said stake being N. 6 deg. 00 min. E. 274.25 feet from Lizzie Street, runs thence along the building line of Howell Street N. 6 deg. 00 min. E. 110 feet to a stake, corner of Curtis Johnson’s lot; thence with the Johnson line S. 84 deg. 00 min. E. 150 feet to a stake; thence S. 6 deg. 00 min. W. 110 feet to a stake, Morgan’s corner; thence with the Morgan line N. 84 deg. 00 min. W. 150 feet to the point of BEGINNING, according to a map and survey made by William Ragsdale, Jr., Registered Engineer.

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

Said property is commonly known as 610 Howell St, Selma, NC 275760000.

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 January 6, 2022 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 88 as shown on that Plat entitled, “Final Plat, Dawson Place, Section III”, as recorded in Map Book 56, Page 155, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 306 Cabin Circle, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Parcel ID Number: 74919 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to

sales, at 10:00 AM on January 6, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situate in the County of Onslow, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 101, as shown on that plat entitled, “Horse Creek Farms, Section III-B” as recorded in Map Book 29, Page 214, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 339 Running Road, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Parcel ID Number: 052591 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

door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on January 6, 2022 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 1, as shown on Plat entitled, “Aragona Village Duplexes, Section 1-A, White Oak Township,” and prepared

by James E. Stewart and Associates, Inc., as recorded in Map Book 23, Page 141, Onslow County Registry. Including the unit located thereon; said unit being located at 100 Brasswood Court, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and

directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may

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

Said property is commonly known as 414 Winfred Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds

West 403.41 feet to a new iron pipe; thence along the lands of J.R. Maynard and approximately parallel with a 30-foot access and utility easement reserved by Michael Todd Moore North 33 degrees 29 minutes 50 seconds West 145.81 feet to an existing iron pipe in the southeastern right of way line of NCSR 1501; thence leaving the southeastern right of way line of NCSR 1501 North 33 degrees 29 minutes 50 seconds West 29.85 feet to an existing iron pipe in the centerline of NCSR 1501; thence along the centerline of NCSR 1501 North 56 degrees 13 minutes 03 seconds East 40.57 feet to an existing iron pipe, the point and place of BEGINNING, containing 1.707 acres, including a 30-foot access and utility easement reserved by Michael Todd Moore. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4179 Swift Creek Road, Smithfield, North Carolina.

request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1227876 - 10217

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC.

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 Michael J. Mullen and wife Liza M. Mullen.

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.

of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 18-21644-FC02

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return

request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court

costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may

conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 414 Winfred Drive, Raleigh, NC 27603.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions

of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Michael J. Mullen and wife Liza M. Mullen.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for

any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 18-21644-FC02

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

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.

request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Michael Todd Moore, herein reserves unto himself, his heirs and assigns, the 30-foot access and utility easement shown on the July 2, 1998 survey recorded in Plat Book 52, Page 294 of the Johnston County Registry, for the purpose of ingress, egress and regress to and from that 2.107 acre tract of land located on the eastern side of the 1.707 acre tract herein conveyed to Karen R. Stephenson. The said Michael Todd Moore owns the 2.107 acre tract of land referenced in this paragraph.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Ralph W. Daniels and All Lawful Heirs of Kenneth W. Hicks.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1778 - 3659

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 21-01646-FC01

An Order for possession of the property may be issued

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

this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return

of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained

($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in

the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return

of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days

but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1169302 - 12832

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 2741 - 6461

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1618 - 2903

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B11

TAKE NOTICE

RANDOLPH AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 305

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Norma Ramos and Reynaldo B. Rodriguez (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Norma Ramos and Reynaldo Bello Rodriguez) to Teresa Nixon, Trustee(s), dated October 30, 2008, and recorded in Book No. RE 2101, at Page 971 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on December 23, 2011, in Book No. RE2264, at Page 1503, 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

WAKE Notice to Creditors

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Antonio Rosas Vega a/k/a Antonio Vega Rosas (2021E-4509), late of Wake County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and

15 SP 2011 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Richard C. Kracke, Jr. to Larry McBennett, Trustee(s), which was dated October 13, 2005 and recorded on October 13, 2005 in Book 011632 at Page 02230, Wake County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 12, 2022 at 10:00 AM, and

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 21sp1718 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY J. ROBIN KELLER AND JOHN A. KELLER DATED MARCH 22, 2017 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 16730 AT PAGE 1446 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 21SP66 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JAY OCHOA AND JOANN OCHOA DATED MARCH 4, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 11252 AT PAGE 2047 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 1439

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Shirley Pullen and William Pullen (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): William A. Pullen and Shirley L. Pullen) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated September 24, 2008, and recorded in Book No. 013260, at Page 0001 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 234

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by James T. Pete and Julie A. Pete (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): James T. Pete and Julie A. Pete) to Shapiro & Kreisman, Trustee(s), dated the 28th day of March, 2003, and recorded in Book 010006, Page 01437-01446, in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the note thereby 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 of 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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 21SP1899 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY PATRICIA ANN WILLIAMS DATED APRIL 15, 2004 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 10766 AT PAGE 2746 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 21SP1851 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY WAKE NOTICE OF SALE IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY BALDOMAR RAMIREZ AND RAYMUNDA ALEMAN DATED JUNE 1, 1998 RECORDED IN BOOK 8074 AT PAGE 2594 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA 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

been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Randolph County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on January 11, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Asheboro in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an iron pipe in the eastern right of way line of Timberlane at a point 530 feet South along said right of way line from the center line of Sequoia Avenue, Councilman’s southwest corner; thence with Councilman’s line South 89 degrees 14 minutes East 156.81 feet to an iron pipe; thence South 1 degree 11 minutes West 100 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 89 degrees 14 minutes West 157.39 feet to an iron pipe in the eastern right of way line of Timberlane; thence with said right of way line North 1 degree 31 minutes East 100feet to theBeginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1511

Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Betty Rowe Penny a/k/a Betty Lou Penny (Wake 21-E-4755), late of Wake 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 on or before the 17th day of March 2022 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All

corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 24th day of March 2022 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.

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: The following

property

is

described as follows:

Being all of Unit 323 of Westpark Condominiums as shown on map recorded in Book Of Maps 1985 Page 1141. Wake Registry, and as shown in Condominium File No. 36, Wake Registry; and as designated and described in the Declaration of Condominium for Westpark Condominiums (The “Declaration”) recorded n Book 3504 Page 457 Wake Registry on June 265, 1,1985 pursuant to the provisions of the Unit Ownership Act, Chapter 47A of the North Carolina General. Statutes together with a .0238095% undivided interest in the common areas and facilities declaration and plat reference is hereby made for a more accurate and particular description of same.

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

Said property is commonly known as 323 South West

and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 11:00AM on January 7, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed J. Robin Keller and John A. Keller, dated March 22, 2017 to secure the original principal amount of $390,000.00, and recorded in Book 16730 at Page 1446 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: Sturdivant Drive, Cary, NC 27511 Tax Parcel ID:

1

1

4

8

0038686

and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 11:00AM on January 7, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Jay Ochoa and Joann Ochoa, dated March 4, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $37,935.00, and recorded in Book 11252 at Page 2047 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: Orchard Trace Way, Raleigh, NC 27610 Tax Parcel ID:

2

8

0

4

0234799

designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on January 3, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 48, Section 1 of Brandywood Subdivision according to map of same recorded in Book of Maps 1985, Page 1434, Wake County Registry. Located in the County of Wake, State of North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5624 Continental Way, Raleigh, North Carolina.Subject to restrictive covenants recorded in Book 3540, Page 212 of the Wake County Registry.Subject to easements and rights of way of record.Subject to Ad Valorem Taxes for the year 1987 and subsequent years.Being the same property conveyed to William A. Pullen and Shirley L. Pullen by Deed from Key Homes, Inc. recorded 04/06/1987 in Deed Book 3982 Page 730, in the Register of Deeds Office of Wake County, North Carolina.

Timberlane Road, Asheboro, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said

property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

Co-Executors of the Estate of Betty Rowe Penny a/k/a Betty Lou Penny

114 Raleigh Street

This the 29th day of December 2021.

c/o Lisa M. Schreiner

Melanie L. Penny, Melinda P. Canady and Melissa P. Murphy

P.O. Box 446

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1275465 - 11339

Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 12/15, 12/22, 12/29, 2021 and 1/5/2022

Antonio Vega Rosas

114 Raleigh Street

c/o Lisa M. Schreiner

Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

P.O. Box 446

(For publication: 12/22, 12/29/2021, 1/5/2022 and 1/12/2022)

Street, Cary, NC 27511.

Richard Charles Kracke, Jr.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

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.

but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

This the 29th day of December 2021.

Linda Vega Administrator of the Estate of Antonio Rosas Vega a/k/a

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are

Present Record Owners:

J. Robin Keller

And Being more commonly known as: 1148 Sturdivant Drive, Cary, NC 27511 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are J. Robin Keller.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and

Present Record Owners: and Joann Ochoa

Jay

Ochoa

And Being more commonly known as: 2804 Orchard Trace Way, Raleigh, NC 27610 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Jay Ochoa and Joann Ochoa.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

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,

assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 15-09927-FC01

after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice 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 notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is December 13, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 21-112010

Parkway,

Suite

400

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

The date of this Notice is November 15, 2021.

LLG TRUSTEE LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 19-108200

400

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the

party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00),

whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §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 NCGS §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 expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for

any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by

providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm LLP P.O. Box 12497 6230 Fairview Road, Suite 315 Charlotte, North Carolina 28210 Phone No: (704) 362-9255 Case No: 1317143 (CFC.CH)

and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on January 3, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Patricia Ann Williams, dated April 15, 2004 to secure the original principal amount of $98,500.00, and recorded in Book 10766 at Page 2746 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3902 Billy Hopkins Rd, Zebulon, NC 27597 Tax Parcel ID: 0197510

Present Record Owners: Patricia Ann Williams And Being more commonly known as: 3902 Billy Hopkins Rd, Zebulon, NC 27597 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Patricia Ann Williams.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to

all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the

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

The date of this Notice is December 13, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 21-111474

agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 10:00 AM on January 5, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Baldomar Ramirez; Raymunda Aleman a/k/a Raymunda Ramirez, dated June 1, 1998 to secure the original principal amount of $98,900.00, and recorded in Book 8074 at Page 2594 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3429 Deer Trace Lane, Clayton, NC 27520 Tax Parcel ID: 0231278

Present Record Owners: Baldomar Ramirez; Raymunda Aleman a/k/a Raymunda Ramirez The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Baldomar Ramirez and Raymunda Aleman.

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

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October

1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is 13th day of December, 2021.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 9541 Julian Clark Ave, Suite 202 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Posted: __________________ By: __________________ Ingle Law Firm, P.A. 9541 Julian Clark Ave., Ste 202 Huntersville, NC 28078 Ingle Case Number: 4097-4576

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

door, the Salisbury Street entrance in the City of Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on January 3, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the City of Raleigh, in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 31, Glen Meadows Subdivision, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 1998, Page 419, Wake County Registry.

of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1275663 - 10300

North State Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

B12

pen & paper pursuits

sudoku

solutions From December 22, 2021

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 18sp718 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MICHAEL B. STATEN AND VERNA D. BUTLER-STATEN DATED AUGUST 18, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7338 AT PAGE 881 AND MODIFIED

BY AGREEMENT RECORDED ON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017 AT BOOK 10173, PAGE 318 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in

JOHNSTON 19 SP 360 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Rick A. Rodriguez to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated March 15, 2017 and recorded on March 15, 2017 in Book 4924 at Page 797, Johnston 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

the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:30AM on January 10, 2022 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Michael B. Staten and Verna D. Butler-Staten, dated August 18, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $339,000.00, and recorded in Book 7338 at Page 881 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 104 Bayview Cir, Parkton, NC 28371

Tax Parcel ID: 9493-680672 Present Record Owners: Michael B. Staten, Sr. and Verna D. Butler-Staten And Being more commonly known as: 104 Bayview Cir, Parkton, NC 28371 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Michael B. Staten, Sr. and Verna D. Butler-Staten.

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 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. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is made subject to all prior liens and encumbrances, and unpaid taxes and

assessments including but not limited to any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. Following the expiration of the statutory upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice 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 notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is November 23, 2021.

LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 08-108392

will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on January 10, 2022 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 100, The Trace at Summerwind Plantation, Phase 1C, according to a plat recorded in Plat Book 82, Pages 455-456, and revised to change street names in Plat Book 82, Pages 490-491, Johnston County Registry; and

(5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Rick A. Rodriguez.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC

Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-08334-FC01

Together with a non-exclusive, perpetual right of ingress, egress and regress over Marsh Creek Drive 40’ R/W (private) and Summerwind Plantation Drive 40’ R/W (private) as shown on plat entitled “Easement plat for the Trace at Summerwind Plantation,” dated March 19, 2008, prepared by True Line Surveying, P.C. and recorded in Plat Book 72, Pages 124 and 125, Johnston County Registry.

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

Said property is commonly known as 106 Heron Point Way, Garner, NC 27529.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 44 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Randolph record

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Christmas Classic

Asheboro High’s Hakeeme Butler lays the ball up against the East Davidson Eagles in the Davidson-Randolph Christmas Classic at Providence Grove High School on December 27, 2021. The Blue Comets defeated the Eagles 87-53 Monday afternoon. The win marked Asheboro Coach Brian Nance’s 400th career coaching victory. The Christmas tournament continues through Wednesday and features teams from Chatham, Davidson and Randolph counties with host sites of Ledford High and Providence Grove High School.

COUNTY NEWS

A look back at 2021’s top stories North State Journal staff

Guy B. Teachey to offer Spanish dual immersion program Asheboro City Schools announced last week that Guy B. Teachey will offer a dual language immersion program to rising Kindergarten students for the 2022-2023 school year.

The program is elective and utilizes a lottery process for admittance. Families must submit an application to the Asheboro City Schools Central Office to be considered for participation in the program. The application window will open on January 3 and must be be submitted by 5 p.m. on February 15. All applicants will then be entered into a lottery.

Panthers send all players home due to COVID The Carolina Panthers have sent all of their players home from Bank of America Stadium after six more players tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. That brings the total number of Carolina players on the COVID-19 reserve list to 13. Panthers coach Matt Rhule said the decision to send players home was made “to stem the tide” and get things under control. The team will conduct its meetings virtually until then, and Rhule is hoping to have players back in the building for practice on Wednesday.

Grandfather Mountain wildfire grows to 350 acres A fire on the slopes of Grandfather Mountain has grown, officials said Sunday. The fire is estimated to be 350 acres and 10% contained, the U.S. Forest Service said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but U.S. Forest Service officials believe it to be caused by someone. The Linville Volunteer Fire Department said the fire was on the Blue Ridge Parkway side of Grandfather Mountain. A statewide burn ban has since been lifted since a large fire burned earlier this month on Pilot Mountain, brush conditions remain dry across the region.

ASHEBORO — As 2021 draws a close, Randolph County’s year is going out with a bang in terms of major news stories. While the year was filled with important news stories from Randolph County, the biggest story of the year came in the last month. Toyota Motor North America announced on December 6 that it will build a large-scale battery manufacturing plant in Randolph County, bringing 1,750 jobs to Liberty.

While the Toyota story was felt worldwide, there were many other important news stories in 2021 in Randolph County. Here’s a look back at what transpired on the pages of the North State Journal.

To mask, or not to mask?

No single issue received more coverage on the pages of the North State Journal than the issue of school masking polices. In Randolph County, the three major school systems dealt with the issue in different ways. The county’s largest pubic school system, Randoph County Schools, made an early move to make masks optional only to succumb to pressure from Raleigh — in the form of a letter from Gov. Roy Cooper — to move back to mandated masks. Randolph County Schools and Uwharrie Charter, eventually moved back to mask optional environments as COVID number declined and vaccination rates climbed. Asheboro City School District, which made a late summer decision to keep masks on students finished the 2021 year

Recreation center hopping with activities High school’s use of gym works well for all parties

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Use of the Asheboro Recreation Center is almost nonstop and that’s expected to continue through the winter.

The boost in activity comes for various reasons, largely with Asheboro High School using the venue for basketball and wrestling as the gym on campus is part of a renovation project.

“The relationship we have with Parks and Rec and what they’ve really done for us has been great,” Asheboro High School athletics director Steve Luck said. “They’ve just reached out tremendously. The behind-the-scenes things they’ve done have been great.”

The busy times for the City of Asheboro’s recreation department staff have come with an uptick of visibility for the center. That exposure is bound to be good for a facility that was upgraded two years ago.

“It has brought a lot of awareness to our facility,” said Jody Maness, assistant director of the city’s recreation services. “That has helped make people aware of what we have and it has brought in more people.”

There are challenges in fitting in all the activities as gym use has become coveted.

The recreation department’s youth basketball program kicks into gear with games in January and February, though practices have already started. The high school teams use the gym for basketball practices, with the girls’ varsity and junior varsity usually combined for team workouts in the late afternoons and the boys’ varsity practicing into the early evenings. The boys’ JV team uses South Asheboro Middle School for evening practices.

Recreation teams have started their practices.

“The biggest issue has been juggling our practices with (the high school teams),” Maness said.

To accommodate that, optional practice times for recreation teams have been created at the

with masks mandated.

Political currents are building Randolph County’s N.C. House Delegation will look different after the 2022 elections as long-time Rep. Allen McNeill announced in December that he would not seek another term in the General Assembly. Rep. Pat Hurley, the senior member of the Randolph delegation, is seeking another term but faces a GOP primary from Republican county school board member Brian Biggs. Bennet pastor Neal Jackson is the only announced candidate seeking to replace McNeill.

At the local level, conservative candidates swept non-partisan school board races in Asheboro in November. School board newcom-

gym during the Christmas break.

Some practice periods right a tad later into the evening than previously, but Maness said those are limited because these are youth teams.

Also, there have been some practice slots available Sunday afternoons.

There are about 20 youth teams, ranging in ages from 4-15.

There are co-ed teams in the younger divisions.

Like the high school seasons, the recreation leagues generally wrap up by late February.

“It’s just a matter of everybody communicating,” Maness said of fitting in all the games and practices.

It has gone well from the Blue Comets’ perspective, Luck said.

“We’ve almost been nomadic,” he said of not having a home base at the school. “They’re working with us, making sure we’re getting our practices in. It’s a neat facility. We’re there most of the time.”

Luck said the recreation department’s staffing level has aided the high school. He said former Asheboro students Matt Auman and Justin Gerringer being on the center’s staff has been a bonus.

Through the first several weeks of the winter sports seasons, Luck said the experiences have been See AHS, page 2

ers Hailey Lee and Adam Hurley joined incumbents Beth Knott and Baxter Hammer as GOP-backed candidates won all four open seats on the city school board.

Times they are changing The year 2021 marked an end to a beloved local eatery in Asheboro with the closing of the Dixie III Restaurant on East Dixie Drive.

The restaurant closed after 39 years in business. Fortunately for hungry patrons, the building was quickly leased to a North Asheboro staple — Paw-Paw’s Place — who opened a second location and hired many of Dixie III’s staffers who wanted to work.

See TOP STORIES, page 2

5

20177 52016 $1.00

8

Randolph Record for Wednesday, July 21, 2021

2 22

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021 Randolph Record for Wednesday, July 7, 2021

WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY

7.21.21 7.7.21 12.29.21 #3

WEEKLY FORECAST COMMUNITY SERVICE WEEKLY FORECAST

#1

“Join the “Join the “Join the conversation” conversation”

conversation” Stanly County Journal ISSN: 2575-2278 North NorthState State Journal Journal (USPS 20451) (USPS 20451) Publisher (ISSN 2471-1365) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins

Editor

Publisher Publisher Xxx

Neal NealRobbins Robbins Sports Editor Cory Lavalette Editor Editor

Matt Mercer Matt Mercer Senior Opinion Editor Frank Hill Sports Editor Sports Editor

Design Editor Cory Lavalette Cory Lavalette Lauren Rose

Senior Opinion Opinion Editor Editor Senior

Published Frank Hill each Wednesday by Frank Hill North State Media LLC

Design Editor 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Design Editor

Lauren Rose Albemarle, Lauren RoseN.C. 28001 Published each Wednesday Published each Wednesday by(704) North State Media, LLC 269-8461

by North State Media, LLC 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 INFO@STANLYJOURNAL.COM 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Raleigh, N.C. 27609 STANLYJOURNAL.COM Raleigh, N.C. 27609 TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 orSUBSCRIBE: online at nsjonline.com TO 704-269-8461 or online at nsjonline.com or Annual online at nsjonline.com Subscription Price: $50.00

Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, Annual Subscription Price: $50.00N.C. and at additional mailing Periodicals Postage Paidoffices. at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing Periodicals Postage Paidoffices. at Raleigh, N.C. POSTMASTER: andStanly at additional mailing offices.

County Journal POSTMASTER: 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Send address changes POSTMASTER: Albemarle, N.C. 28001. to: North Statechanges Journal Send address 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 to: North State Journal Raleigh, N.C. 27609 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Raleigh, N.C. 27609

DEATH NOTICES

♦ Christopher Enos Burris, WEEKLY FORECAST

40, of Oakboro,X DEATH NOTICES SPONSORED BY

♦ Georgia Bernice Siler, 89, of Siler City, died July 15, 2021, at her home. ♦ Harold Eugene “Gene” Anderson, 82, died at his home on Monday, July 12, 2021 in a tragic house fire.

CALL OR TEXT 336-629-7588 ♦ Addie Mae Hunt McLeod, age 79, died July 11, 2021, at Autumn Care in Biscoe.

WEDNESDAY DEC 29

♦ Jonathan Edward Ferree, 50, of Black Mountain, formerly of Asheboro, died July 11, 2021.

HI 72

♦ Mildred Mae Cozart Poole, LOW 62 age 85, of Asheboro, died July PRECIP 24% See OBITS, page 7 9, 2021.

THURSDAY DEC 30 See OBITS, page 7

Randolph

Randolph Crisis Center receives toys donation Carolina Classic Cars, a new vintage car dealership west of Asheboro, FRIDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY SUNDAY donated over 200 toys to the Randolph Crisis Center SATURDAY aheadSUNDAY of Christmas.

“We FRIDAY SATURDAY MONDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JULY 23 JULY 24 JULY 21 JULY 22 JULY 25 JULY 2 JULY 3 JULY JUNE 30 JULY 1 JULY 4 are overwhelmed and overjoyed by the generosity shown to our children from 5 89° 86° 84° HI HI HI HI 91° 88° 86° HIDrive,”HI 78° 81°HI 88° HI the 91° 88° Classic HI HI Carolina Car Toy said a HIpress release from the Crisis Center.

LO 66° LO68° 62°LO 65° LO LO 70° 67° LO LO 69° 62° LO LO LO LO 70° 67° 69° “The children who come the Family Center Advocacy Centers, shelter, PRECIP 57% Crisis PRECIP 43% PRECIP 32% 17% PRECIP 15% to5% PRECIP 20% PRECIPPRECIP 24% 24% PRECIP PRECIP15% 13% PRECIPPRECIP and Emmys House will have toys every day because of all of you who gave.”

RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE Franklinville family receives new heating system for Christmas

Guide MONDAY TUESDAY

JULY JULY 26 6

TUESDAY

JULY 27

The Randolph HI 87° GuideHIis HI 89° a LO quick look at what’s LO 67° 69° LO PRECIP going on in24% Randolph PRECIP 24% PRECIP County.

88° 69° 24%

Dec.31 Hindsight Bluegrass

One Franklinville family rested easier over Christmas with a new furnace New Year’s Eve Concer courtesy of Triad Heating & Air. Lily Barham won the heating system after her 8pm friends and family nominated her. The surprise was presented by Triad’s owner Sunset Theatre in Eric Ward in a Publisher’s Clearinghouse-style front door presentation last

By Bob Sutton downtown Asheboro. sion, there’s of 915. start.

Wednesday.

“It makes me feelbefore goodthose thatclasses people care that much aboutenrollment me,” Randolph Record Tickets are $10.

Williams said there’s an ef- That’s off slightly from the usual said Lily. has never fort to bolster enrollment. He cit- number that ranges up to 1,000, More“There information at been a Williams said. ed gives the RCC Commitment Grant, to ASHEBORO — Heating Enrollment Each year Triad & Air away a new furnace a deserving hindsightbluegrass.com better opportunity to attend Traditional enrollment numat Randolph Community Col- a program designed as a funding and RCC tickets Randolph County resident before Christmas.

This year’s recipient is known in andavailable not haveatto worry lege isn’t likely to bounce back to mechanism to fill the gap that’s bers have flattened, but it’s the Hindsightbluegrass@ numberinofneed. high school students about how to pay for it.” not covered by federal or to state aid others pre-pandemic levels away who her community as right someone is always willing help

RCC pushes more MEETfor THE STAFFstudents as numbers lag

PJ Ward-Brown Matt Lauren Frank Coryto students. despite a school official pointing “There has never been a betout unprecedented financial inter to attend RCC centives for potential students.

Who isopportunity “Editor?”

Chad Williams, vice president and not have to worry about how

gmail.com or call 336in programs designed for dual enrollment that has dropped, 302-2274.

“We’re just not seeing the level RCC president Dr. Robert of engagement that we had seen,” Shackleford Jr. dolph Williams County,” said. said Gregson for student services at RCC, said a to pay for it,” RCC president Dr. shortly after death. break RCC Rutledge’s held a one-week decline in high school students in Robert Shackleford Jr. said. “We “I spent countless hours eatingthe sumdual enrollment has been the big- meet students exactly where they earlier this month amid lunch with him in the tower at are and help them go as far as they mer semester, which began May gest reason for a dip.

Randolph County Board the Training Center while I was 24 and concludes July 26. Late “Overall, we’re still seeing a de- can possibly go.” of Commissioners teaching BLET. Freddie was a forhonor. the fall Beginning with the fall semescline in enrollment comparing to man ofregistration integrity and Hesemester through 10,way. with classqualifyingTraining full-timeclass students previous prior 6pm alwaysruns did things theAug. right Enforcement North Stateyears Journal staffto the pan-Lawter, es beginning Aug. 16. will be eligible for up to $1,000 demic,” Williams said. “I don’tat RCC. He was always willing to help Historic Randolph per semester. know if we’ll get to numbers we’ve Randolph County District At- others.” Still dealing with adjustments COLONEL FRED “FREDmade because of the coronavirus That makes attending RCC seen in previous fall semesters. …

County Courthouse, 145 Rutledge began his career in DIE” WILSON RUTLEDGE, II torney Andy Gregson began propandemic, notofallthe 2021 fall semesthe most enticing from a finanWe’re reaching to every the Patrol Division Sherthe scholarship fund, created a legacy ofout service duringstu-moting Worth St., Asheboro ter classes will in person. cialwith standpoint in the and 16 years dent canof inlaw every way we can.”along iff’s Department in be 1977 and Some other friends his 38we years enforcement will use consistently a hybrid model a Williams has been theaf-school, A fallFollowing semester his at the two-year was promoted un- with Asheboro of Rutledge, just at days service. death in family City Planning mixture face-to-faces he said. died He previously workedtilinreaching school in Asheboro would oftenter Rutledge theoflevel of Colonel sessions on July 8, 2020.

July of 2020, Rutledge’s friends Board financial aid Rutledge office. have 2,600ensured to 3,000 students — the and chiefvirtual deputy.sessions.

RutledgeMany re- classtwo months after and family that his leg- en-JustRCC’s theprovide Order ofstudents the Long with Leaf options Randolph County comacy would to future gen“There’s never a better timeceived to es rolled.

Atextend the beginning of thisdied, the 7pm Pine from Gov.toPat McCrory had to raised the necessary erations with the founding a munity on how attend and folparticipate, go back college,” he said. week, that number stood atofabout lowingWilliams his retirement exceeding $10,000, to ful- sesscholarship in his memory. said. in 2015. the current summer City Hall, 146 N. Church 1,900 withfund about a month to gofunds,For “Freddie was always what a Last week, CRIME the first Fred Rut- ly fund the scholarship which is WEEKLY LOG St., Asheboro law enforcement officer should ledge scholarship at Randolph now permanently funded.

“I met Freddie Rutledge 26 aspire to be,” said Gregson. “He Community College was award♦ Williams, Denishia Lorren years ago. He was a witness in leaves a legacy in the lives of so ed(Bto Cadet Justice McDaniel. /F/30) Arrest on chrg of WEEKLY CRIME He will be part of the(F), 89th Basic one of my first trials in Ran- many officers.”

1) Pwimsd Marijuana 2) LOG

First scholarship awarded honoring long-time deputy

Jan. 4

Maintain Veh/dwell/place Cs (f) (F), 3) Possess X

♦ Boggs, Matthew Harrison (M, 39), Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor Larceny, at 2587 Wayne White Rd, Pleasant Garden, on 07/14/2021. ♦ Bolton McKee, James Henry (M, 47), Arrest on charge of Possession of Stolen Goods, at 6469 Clyde King Rd, Seagrove, on 07/15/2021. ♦ Pugh, Robert Daniel (M, 39), Arrest on charge of Simple Assault (M), at 139 Drum St, Asheboro, on 07/14/2021. ♦ Richardson, Erwin Quint Jr (M, 31), Arrest on charges of Felony Larceny and Possession of Stolen Goods, at 5471 Needhams Trail, Seagrove, on 07/14/2021. ♦ Seibert, Sarah Elizabeth (F, 32),

Jan. 3

Arrest on charge of Resisting Public Officer, 321 Kings Ridge Rd, Randleman, on 07/14/2021. ♦ Hazelwood, Elizabeth (F, 44), Arrest on chage of Misdemeanor Larceny, at Hoover Hill Rd/Slick Rodk Mtn, on 07/14/2021. ♦ Lynch, Detrick Lamont (M, 40), Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor Possession of Schedule VI CS, Possessiong of Stolen Motor Vehicle, at I-85 Exit 111, on 07/13/2021. ♦ McQueen, James Allen Jr (M, 35), Arrest on charge of Possession of Marijuana up to 1/2 oz., Possession of drug paraphernalia, Failure to appeal on felony, failure to appear on misdemeanor, at

Town ♦ Whitehead, George Alan (M, 52), 176 E. Salisbury CindySt, Asheboro, onRandleman Board Meeting Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor 07/13/2021.

Rutledge (left) and Possession of Schedule IV CS, ♦ Millikan, Bobby (M, 33), 6pm Possession of Stolen motor CadetWayne Justice Arrest on charge of Assault on a McDaniel as vehicle, imporoper use of a dealer Randleman City Hall, 204 Female, atMcDaniel 8300 Curtis Power Rd, tag, failure to deliver title, failure to S. Main St., Randleman accepted the Bennett, NC, on 07/14/2021. appear on felony, at I-85 Exit 111, first Fred on 07/13/2021.

Seagrove Town Board ♦ Passmore,Rutledge Casey Lynn, Arrest on Scholarship Meeting charge of possession of marijuana ♦ Cheek, Helenia Spinks (F, 64), forat Basic Law up to 1/2 oz., Randolph Enforcement 6pm Arrest on charge of Assault by Courthouse, on 7/13/2021. pointing a gun, Discharging a Training at firearm to cause705, fear, Reckless 798 N.C. Highway Randolph ♦ Roark, Justin Steven (M, 30), driving to endanger, Seagrove, on Community Arrest on charge of Possession Seagrove 07/12/2021.

College. of Meth, Possession with intent County to manufacture, sell or distributeRandolph ♦ Helms, Chad Lee (M, 37), Arrest Planning and Zoning heroin, Simple possession of on charge of Felony Sexual Meetingof a minor in the Schedule II, III, IV CS, MaintainingBoardExploitation Place, Possession of Drug second degree (10 counts), 727 6:30pm Paraphernalia, at 1029 High Point McDowell Rd, Asheboro, NC, on Rd, on 7/13/2021.

07/12/2021.

Historic Randolph County Courthouse, 145 Worth St., Asheboro

HI 70 LOW 49 PRECIP 65%

6 WWE leaves virtual reality behind in 1st tour Jan. since 2020 FRIDAY DEC 31

By Dan Gelston The Associated Press

COURTESY PHOTO

TOP STORIES from page 1

HI 69 Big-time roles LOW 57— Triple H PHILADELPHIA The people of Randolph County walked with his arms crossed PRECIP 18% like an X — his signature Degeneration X symbol — with his 7-foot tag-team partner, Joel Embiid, to JAN 1 month ringSATURDAY a ceremonial bell last before a Philadelphia 76ers playoff game.

His theme music blared HI 70 through the arena, and near59 from the ly 19,000 fansLOW hanging 34% rafters roaredPRECIP when the wrestler hoisted his bad-guy weapon-ofchoice sledgehammer and struck the bell.

SUNDAY JAN 2 Sure, the setting wasn’t WrestleMania — though Triple H lost a match in the same building when HI 63 the event was held there in 1999 — but for the superstar-turned-exLOW 30 ecutive, the frenzied atmosphere PRECIP 47% was a reminder of what WWE lost during the 16 months it ran without live events and raucous MONDAY JAN 3 crowds.

“It was a fun opportunity to get back into an arena packed full of fans and have them HI 44go nuts,” said Triple H, known these days as LOW 24Levesque.

WWE executive Paul PRECIP 8%there’s “That adrenaline rush, nothing like it.”

WWE hasn’t been the same without its “Yes!” chants or “This TUESDAY JAN 4 is Awe-some!” singsongs once the pandemic relegated the company to running empty arena matchHI with 49 a piped-in es every week soundtrack and virtual LOW 31 fans.

No more. PRECIP 5% With most American sports leagues settled in to their old routines, WWE ditched its stopgap home in Florida and resumed touring last Friday night with “Smackdown” from Houston, a

in New York Fashion Week. The Southwestern Randolph junior modeled for designer Marc Defang on September 12.

Andrew Vial, of Liberty, topped the charts with the largest watermelon ever weighed at the State Fair. Vial’s latest big watermelon came within nine pounds of the world record. He has grown four of the top 10 largest watermelons in the world, according to his record-keeping.

Cox’s Harley-Davidson celebrated its 60th anniversary in style with events and concerts.

The dealership, which employs about 25 people, brought country music star Sammy Kershaw to Asheboro to perform as part of its celebration.

Asheboro City Council Meeting

ple cheering over him, or booing

7pmover him or going into different him,” have benefitCitydirections Hall, 146over N. Church ed, Levesque said. “But that’s the St., Asheboro beauty of what we do, to go be en-

tertained, however you want to be entertained. As a performer, sometimes that’s difficult.”

Past and future WWE’s July 5 “RAW” on USA Network hit 1.472 million viewers, Randolph County Boardyear hisThe year also included a look the lowest in the 28-plus back at the epic run of Farmer of Health Meeting tory of the show.

High School to win the 1970 state Levesque, WWE EVP of globbaseball championship. The docEvents and cancellations 6pmal talent strategy and developumentary “Just Plowboys” was ment, said the company would County Health Office, Events — the ones that hap- shown at Asheboro’s Sunset The“take a hard look” at how it can pened and didn’t happen — were ater in August.

222B S. Fayetteville St.,the product attract more fans to The future of healthcare in Ranalso big news in Randolph CounAsheboro each week.

WWE can only hope ty. For the second year in a row, dolph County took shape this year the combination of live crowds the Asheboro Fall Festival was with the acquisition of Randolph and the return of box office attraccancelled. Asheboro’s loss was Hospital by American Healthcare tions such as Becky Lynch, GoldRamseur’s gain as the eastern System. The group bought the berg, and Cena can ignite interest Randolph town hosted one of its hospital out of bankruptcy. State and grow ratings during the build largest fall festivals with vendors funding and local leadership were to the marquee Aug. 21 Summermoving east to engage with pa- pivotal to securing the deal which Slam at the home of the Las Vetotaled $10.2 million. trons excited to roam the streets. gas Raiders.

“It never is one thing,” Levesque said. “We see this as a moment in time to shift everything. I think AHS from page 1 have nearly filled the recreation the community.” seea it in justwedding, the layout of evDo you’ll you have birthday, Maness said recreation parcenter’s gym, Maness said. erything, the set designs, the way PHOTO BY WILLY SANJUAN/INVISION/APengagement or other milestone to have trendWith all those people coming ticipation numbers good for the Blue Comets. He it’s presented.

There’s celebrate?

Contact us at a greater many Monday parts of Night the to the gym,H” it has provided ex- ed higher said he expects bephoto, long- Paul emphasis on utilizing the spacIn this Jan. 9, there 2018,to file “Triple Levesque participates in thein “WWE celebrations@randolphrecord.com. asAssociation people wanted to bePress posurethe to aNBCUniversal wider audience.Television Ma- country term for athletespanel and during es that we have and the TV aspect Raw:memories 25th Anniversary” Critics Winter ness said some of those people active after they were idled at coaches. of it while still engaging the fans.

Tour in Pasadena, Calif.

“They’re going to see the rec- might return to use parts of the the beginning of the pandemic A lot of that comes from the time Maness said time slots have reation center and say, ‘Remem- center. we had to experiment inside the the next couple of months, been found for all established ber ’21-’22, we played basketball former,” Reigns said. “As a live WWE then moved to its in-house ThunderDome.” pay-per-view Sunday in Texas and For the recreation center should be programs that have been based and wrestled there,’” he said.

The first start is putting fans Dallas on Monday for the flagship performer, that simultaneous re- performance center in Florida on at the recreation center. He said The recreation center’s gym hopping with activities.

— holding their homemade signs March 13, before setting up what sponse keeps you sharp.

We had “Raw” TV show on USA. WWE “It’s going to be a lot of stuff in discussions regarding new enholds about 600 people, so that’s it have dubbed ThunderDome -- and wearing their catchphrase to for adjust andweeks,” adapt Maness to the times spruced brought back deavors beenThe delayed, some several less than up halfsets, of the capacity ofoldthere where fans registered for spots T-shirts — back in the seats. that were in something front of us.”every potential starshigh and school’s hit the reset programs that already “Probably the gym. button There onsaid.

“When we have that live crowd, on LED digital videoboards With Hulk Hogan in the house, TV programming humbled with have been a few times that spec- night. But we’re happy to be part had been pushed back during — for stretches in Florida at the Amway sometimes they almost become WWE their record-low and games a strongof this.

Thisheld meets the only needsWrestleof the pandemic. tators for theratings high school Mania with fans this past April Center, Tropicana Field and the the cameras for a lot of the perneed for new stars. formers,” Reigns said. “But when “I do think if we were doing this 10 and 11 at Raymond James Sta- Yuengling Center.

“People like Roman have been you don’t have that real-time, flesh in front of the live crowd, it would dium. WWE last ran a weeknight have been a situation that would televised event with a paid crowd able to emotionally bring a per- interaction, the red light becomes have made me an even better per- on March 9, 2020, in Washington. formance that, maybe with peo- the focal point for the performer.” had many neighbors to be proud of this year. Asheboro School Board member Gidget Kidd ascended to the chair of the UNC Wilmington Board of Trustees this summer.

Kidd will guide the school through a chancellor search in the coming year.

Asheboro native Trent Callicutt took his banjo playing to the highest level with two gigs at the Grand Ole Opry this year. He played the banjo for Dailey & Vincent, an American bluegrass music group.

Callicutt, 32, has been playing banjo since age 12. His training, in part, came through lessons from Asheboro’s Tim Moon.

Another Asheboro native, Josey Perdue, took her talents to the world’s largest stage as a model

4” Ad

Jan. 10

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

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

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

A season of hope

This season, it seems we could all use that hope more than ever. For me, I could not do my job or get through most days without my own faith.

AS WE CELEBRATE Christmas this week, I hope we are all able to take time and reflect on the true meaning of this holiday for all who celebrate it.

In the Christmas story as found in the book of Luke, an angel appears to a group of shepherds. Speaking to them, the angel says, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2: 10-11).

With the birth of Jesus came the fulfillment of God’s promise to all mankind. It also brought a renewed hope to all who would believe in Him. It truly is the greatest story ever told.

This season, it seems we could all use that hope more than ever. For me, I could not do my job or get through most days without my own faith. While people can let us down, I am thankful the source of my hope comes from my faith. I am also thankful to live in a country where we are all free to practice our faith, no matter what it might be.

This holiday season, let’s first remember those who wear our nation’s uniform to protect those freedoms — especially

those separated from their own families. Let’s also keep their families in our prayers. We should also be thankful for our first responders and health care workers on the front lines who are all facing challenges like never before.

While our current troubles can often feel pretty bleak, it’s always important to remember that we have faced hard times before. From George Washington’s starving soldiers at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777, to the Civil War, to the Great Depression, Americans have always pulled through.

In 2022, I am confident we can do so again by working together. Yet above all, I am confident and hopeful for the future because of the promise that was fulfilled on that first Christmas day.

From my family to yours, I wish each of you who celebrate, a very Merry Christmas. I also wish everyone a happy and healthy start to the New Year. I look forward to getting back to work on your behalf very soon and continuing to address the challenges we face. In the meantime, enjoy time with family and remember what’s most important — our faith, our families, and the blessings we enjoy living in this great country.

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Against the religion of ‘woke anti-racism’ The current wave of antiracism attacks those founding principles and condemns American society as irremediably racist.

“IF YOU PULL THE CAMERA back and think about 1965, and think about last week, there’s been massive improvement. The question is why so many people pretend that that’s not true.”

That bracing dose of wisdom comes from John McWhorter, Columbia University linguistics professor and author of several books on other subjects, going back to his 2000 book, “Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America.”

He’s also a critic of what he calls, in the title of his latest book, “Woke Racism.” Despite that, he has been hired as a commentator for the New York Times.

McWhorter, who was born in 1965, correctly identifies the anti-racism of that era as aimed at “slavery and legalized segregation” and “consistent with, indeed compelled by, the nation’s founding principles.” In contrast, he argues the current wave of anti-racism attacks those founding principles and condemns American society as irremediably racist.

As someone who became eligible to vote in 1965, I would add to his depiction of successive historical cycles the thesis that each great advance in equal rights is followed by the plaint that things are just as bad as ever.

The passage of civil rights acts in 1964 and 1965 ended legalized racial segregation in the South and vastly reduced exclusion of black people from jobs and public accommodations nationwide. But the late 1960s saw dozens of riots in northern cities with lasting damage to black neighborhoods, cheered on by local militants “mau-mauing” (novelist Tom Wolfe’s term) sympathetic liberals.

Their listeners had to admit they were right in saying that northern cities did not turn out to be the “promised land” that postwar black migrants from the South expected. But white liberals were typically too intimidated to point out that the “militants” were wrong in saying that nothing had changed.

The current wave of anti-racism comes after the election and reelection, both times with popular vote majorities, of a black president — something considered unthinkable back in 1965.

Once again, the response is to insist that things are as bad as ever. This wave of anti-racism, writes McWhorter, “becoming mainstream in the 2010s, teaches that because racism is baked into the structure of society, white peoples’ ‘complicity’ in living within it constitutes racism itself, while for black people, grappling with the racism surrounding them is the totality of experience and must condition exquisite sensitivity toward them, including a suspension of standards of achievement and conduct.”

For a set of beliefs so contrary to fact to thrive, it requires

that it be taken as a religious faith. And that’s exactly what McWhorter thinks “woke racism” is: “a new religion (that) has betrayed black America,” as his subtitle puts it.

It’s not hard to see in this religion a doctrine of original sin (see the NYT’s 1619 Project), persecution of heretics (McWhorter gives myriad possible examples) and ritual prayers for forgiveness (from those who “cringe hopelessly at the prospect of being outed as a bigot”).

The policy responses to post-1965 mau-mau were lax policing, lavish welfare for single mothers, racial quotas and preferences. The results were sky-high crime, broken families and overmatched students on campuses.

Policies advanced in the latest wave include defunding or discouraging policing, lavish welfare for single mothers (in President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better bill) and racial quotas — plus career destruction and banishment for those who make the slightest misstep against the latest speech code.

McWhorter commits useful heresy by pointing out the predictable, actually precedented, consequences are bad for black people — and for Americans generally. The Black Lives Matter movement’s success has had about 2,000 more black people killed than would have under previous murder rates.

He also notes that propagators of the woke catechism tend to be affluent white liberals, from the corporate chiefs empowering their human resources and “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” priesthoods to the urban white voters who support the political equivalents of yesteryear’s grand inquisitors.

I would add, as one with adult memories of both cycles, that the post-1965 rioters, including those who died, were almost all residents of low-income black neighborhoods.

The more recent wave of “mostly peaceful” — as most media called them — riots seem to have been more multiracial, including white and often drug-addled or mentally ill “antifa” protesters.

Today’s woke anti-racists, like the post-1965 mau-mauers, were wrong that black people were no better off than before despite great political advances. Their success in cowing the larger society, however, owed something to the sense that things had not improved as much as people hoped.

Unfortunately, as McWhorter argues, they made things worse for everybody in both cases.

Let’s hope ordinary Americans of all ancestries once again manage to make things better.

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.

3

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

4

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Pitt lands former USC QB Kedon Slovis Pittsburgh Kedon Slovis is trading USC for Pittsburgh. The former Trojans quarterback announced Dec. 21 he is heading east to join the ACC champion Panthers, where he will get a chance to replace ACC Player of the Year Kenny Pickett. Slovis entered his junior season at USC as a Heisman Trophy contender but struggled to find any rhythm. He passed for 2,153 yards with 11 touchdowns against eight interceptions in nine games before being lost for the season with a leg injury.

BASKETBALL

Ginobili, Chambers, Whalen among 1sttime hoop hall nominees Spring field, Mass.

Former San Antonio Spurs star Manu Ginobili, SuperSonics and Suns forward Tom Chambers and Olympic and WNBA champion Lindsay Whalen are among the first-time nominees for the Basketball Hall of Fame. Among the returning nominees announced Tuesday are 2004 NBA Finals MVP Chauncey Billups and former UConn and Detroit Shock star Swin Cash. More than 150 players, coaches and other contributors will be considered for induction in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame during the Sept. 9-10 enshrinement ceremonies.

The full Class of 2022 will be announced during the NCAA Final Four in New Orleans in April.

TENNIS

Raducanu named BBC sports personality of the year London U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was voted the BBC’s sports personality of the year Sunday to cap an incredible rise throughout 2021. The 19-year-old Raducanu became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam singles title with her triumph in New York in September after not dropping a set in the tournament. She was the first British woman since Virginia Wade in 1977 to win a major tournament, enabling her to beat Olympic gold medalists — diver Tom Daley and swimmer Adam Peaty — to the BBC honor.

OLYMPICS

South Korean Olympic champion suspended over text messages Seoul, South Korea Two-time Olympic shorttrack speed skating champion Shim Suk-hee has been suspended for two months over her text messages that authorities say “marred the dignity of athletes,” a decision that could bar her from attending the Beijing Winter Olympics. In October, Shim was cut from the team after a local media reported what it described as text messages exchanged between her and her coach that insulted two teammates and suggested she might have deliberately tripped one of them, Choi Min-jeong, during 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.

DAVID J. PHILLIP | AP PHOTO

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker holds up the Commissioner's Trophy after the Braves defeated the Houston Astros in Game 6 to win the 2021 World Series.

Veterans fill 2021 sports year with memorable moments The ageless Tom Brady, golf’s Lefty the Spider-Man of open-wheel racing led a cast of athletes who stayed on top

By John Marshall The Associated Press Not even Father Time could get one over on Tom Brady.

Cementing his argument as the NFL’s greatest quarterback, Brady switched teams and kept winning, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 31-9 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55.

Brady’s seventh Super Bowl title, at age 43 no less, was one of the best moments of 2021, when a continuing pandemic could not dim the brightest of stars of the

sports world.

“It’s hands down one of the greatest accomplishments in sports history,” said Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski, lured out of retirement by Brady to join him in Tampa Bay. Brady wasn’t the only veteran athlete to steal the spotlight in 2021, the year of the mature.

Phil Mickelson gave the silver-haired set a thrill, becoming the oldest major champion in golf history by winning the PGA Championship at 50. Lefty left some of the world’s best — and younger — golfers in his wake at Kiawah Island, winning his sixth major championship at an age when many players are looking to move up a tee box.

“There’s no reason why I or anybody else can’t do it at a later age,” Mickelson said. “It just takes

a little more work.”

The Milwaukee Bucks veered back on course behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, winning their first NBA title in 50 years by outlasting the surprising Phoenix Suns in six games. The Atlanta Braves exercised a few demons of their own, beating the Houston Astros in six games for their first World Series title since 1995.

The Tampa Bay Lightning won their second straight Stanley Cup title — this one outside the NHL’s playoff bubble.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were held a year late but, as always, produced some unforgettable moments.

Texas-born Italian sprinter Marcell Jacobs shocked the world by winning the men’s 100 meters, putting his unlikely name among the sport’s greats: Jesse Owens,

Carl Lewis, Usain Bolt.

Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah electrified the crowd by breaking Florence Griffith Joyner’s 33-year-old 100-meter record and had the second-fastest time ever to win the 200 meters.

American gymnast Simone Biles bowed out of four finals while battling “the twisties,” but overcame the mental block to take bronze in balance beam, regaining a piece of herself in the process. Sunisa Lee filled in nicely for the gymnast widely considered the greatest in history, becoming the fifth straight American woman to win the all-around title.

Helio Castroneves turned back the clock at 46, becoming the fourth four-time Indianapolis 500 champion by schooling one of the sport’s hottest young stars.

IndyCar’s “Spider-Man” passed 24-year-old Alex Palou with two laps remaining and the energy from the crowd pushed him to the finish line — and 16 feet up the fence at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in a familiar celebration.

MLB payrolls drop 4%, back to 2015 level Less pay for players led to the current work stoppage, the league’s first since 1994-95 The Associated Press NEW YORK — Major League Baseball payrolls dropped 4% in 2021 compared to the league’s last full season, and the $4.05 billion total was the lowest in a fully completed year since 2015.

Falling payrolls have sparked the labor unrest that led to the sport’s first work stoppage in more than a quarter-century this month, when the collective bargaining agreement expired and owners locked out the players Dec. 2.

Payrolls are down 4.6% from their record high of just under $4.25 billion in 2017, the first year of the just-expired CBA, according to information sent to clubs by the commissioner’s office and obtained

by The Associated Press on Monday. Spending on big league players has not been this low since a $3.9 billion total in 2015.

The Los Angeles Dodgers led baseball with a $262 million payroll in 2021, the second highest in major league history behind the

franchise’s $291 million mark in 2015.

The Dodgers were hit with a $32.65 million luxury tax bill on Dec. 20 as the sport resumed penalizing big spenders after a one-season suspension of the tax due to the pandemic. San Diego was the only other club assessed a tax, charged $1.29 million after failing to make the playoffs with a roster led by Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Yu Darvish, Wil Myers and Eric Hosmer.

Five teams finished within $4 million of the $210 million threshold on payrolls as calculated for luxury tax purposes: Philadelphia ($209.4 million), the Yankees ($208.4 million), the Mets ($207.7 million), Boston ($207.6 million) and Houston ($206.6 million).

Raw payrolls and luxury tax payrolls are measured differently.

Payrolls include salaries, prorated shares of signing bonuses and other guaranteed income, and earned bonuses. In some cases, parts of salaries that are deferred are discounted to present-day value.

The luxury tax payroll is somewhat more forward looking because it is calculated off the average annual values of contracts for 40-man roster players. It also in-

ASHLEY LANDIS | AP PHOTO

MLB’s labor strife, fueled in part of by a drop in salaries, is the first work stoppage in 26 years. cludes about $15.5 million per team for benefits.

Payrolls rose steadily from $3 billion in 2011 to $4.07 billion in 2016, then reached a high in 2017 before receding slightly to $4.2 billion each in 2018 and ’19. Because of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting shortened season, salaries were paid at a 60/162 rate in 2020, dropping payrolls to $1.75 billion.

Players have proposed the luxury tax threshold be lifted to $245 million next year to spur spending. Owners have offered $214 million, a gulf that led to tense negotiations followed by a management lockout that started when the fiveyear labor contract expired Dec. 1. The work stoppage is baseball’s

first since a 7½-month strike in 1994-95.

Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer was the highest-paid player at $38 million. He was placed on administrative leave July 2 under MLB’s domestic violence policy following an allegation of assault, which he has denied. Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout was second at $37 million, followed by Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole at $36 million.

The Dodgers paid tax each season from 2013-17, and their total bill has reached $182 million since the luxury tax began in 2003.

That’s second only to the New York Yankees’ $348 million bill.

World Series champion Atlanta was 14th at $148 million.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

5

BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Southwestern Randolph volleyball players react to winning the Class 2-A state championship on Nov. 6 at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh.

Sean Adkins PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Top 2021 county sports stories State championships bring highlights for teams

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record HERE ARE 10 notable Randolph County-related sports stories for 2021: • Randleman’s baseball team wins the Class 2-A state championship behind a no-hitter from Ryan White in the decisive game in the best-of-3 finals against R-S Central. Randleman has a big fan turnout for the championship series at Burlington Athletic Stadium.

• Southwestern Randolph’s volleyball team claims the Class 2-A state title, knocking off previously unbeaten Camden County in the championship match at Reynolds Coliseum on the North Carolina State campus in Raleigh.

• Eastern Randolph’s football team holds the No. 1 ranking in

the state in Class 1-A, going unbeaten until an upset loss in the third round of the state playoffs in November.

• Providence Grove and Wheatmore are selected to be the host venues for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association basketball championship games after usual sites on college campuses are unavailable during the pandemic.

• The Asheboro girls’ basketball team reaches the state final in Class 3-A, falling to Carson.

• Another cycle of conference realignment begins in August for the NCHSAA, and seven schools from the county are in the same Class 1-A/2-A circuit. That includes Uwharrie Charter Academy, which hadn’t previously been in the same league as other schools in the county.

• Randleman drops its season opener in football to Asheboro, ending a string of three straight undefeated marks in regular-season play (so that’s the first

regular-season defeat for the Tigers since 2017). It turns out to be the only victory of the season for the Blue Comets.

• Southwestern Randolph has its best football season in school history and is host for a state-playoff game for the first time. The Cougars finish with an 8-3 record, with success including the first-ever road win against Asheboro. Providence Grove excels as well with an 8-3 mark, including a triumph in a late-season showdown with Southwestern Randolph.

• Faith Christian School’s girls’ cross country team repeats as state champion in the North Carolina Christian School Association. This includes individual state titlist Karrie Gaines.

• The Asheboro Copperheads return to action after their 2020 Coastal Plain League baseball season was canceled because of the pandemic. After the season, renovations begin at McCrary Park.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Sean Adkins of Southwestern Randolph has had some strong recent games.

Southwestern Randolph, boys’ basketball Adkins poured in 20 points as the Cougars secured a 61-48 non-conference victory last week at Chatham Central. It’s a huge point total for the junior considering Southwestern Randolph has struggled at times on the offensive end.

Coupled with the previous Friday’s road victory at Randleman (when Adkins had 12 points), that’s back-toback wins for the Cougars, who improved to 5-4 overall.

The result against Chatham Central marked only the third time this season that the Cougars reached the 60-point mark.

PREP BASKETBALL

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Clockwise from top left: Trinity’s Dominic Payne shoots the ball against winless East Davidson during a non-conference game last week at Trinity. The boys’ game ended with Trinity winning 59-17 to push its record to 9-1.

Trinity’s Kennedy Jackson goes up for a shot against East Davidson in the girls’ game, which Trinity won 36-16 for its second victory of the season.

Trinity’s Richie Linville first up a shot from the lane vs. East Davidson.

Trinity’s Aidan Blakely takes aim on a 3-pointer from the corner.

Trinity’s Alania Lanphar makes a move against East Davidson’s Josie Baxley,

e l t e -

e h o t k h d t o d

r

s s -

f a -

d t s y f

n a n d p d s -

’

e e , a s e

t n e s -

s e d e e -

h -

e d s -

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

6

A big year for agriculture in Randolph County

By Jeannie M. Leonard For the Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Whole COVID continued to impact indoor and outdoor activities in 2021, one outdoor activity maintained its normal pace — farming. As one of North Carolina’s most productive livestock counties, Randolph County’s agriculture industry plays an important role in feeding our state and nation.

In 2013, North Carolina had its highest average corn yields on record, with 142 bushels per acre.

While the numbers from 2021 are not finalized, surveys say this year will be the new record year.

Corn yields in Randolph County were spectacular this year and — based on preliminary data — the country will exceed the state average. Soybeans yields will likely be at record levels, with prediction being near 40 bushels per acre across the state.

The Randolph County Extension Office held demonstration field days, educational workshops and one-on-one farm visits to assist livestock producers to aid in production and solving unique challenges a the farm level. In 2021, extension agents held a field day demonstration on managing and controlling fire ants in pastures and hayfields with a new specialty spreader that is available for producers to rent out. In-person workshops on grazing management, forages and livestock health, and vaccines were also

FILE PHOTO

Alpine Rehabilitation Center staff and resident helping plant their new courtyard garden. held. Extension agents had over 1,200 direct contacts with forages and livestock in Randolph County. Statewide, Randolph County ranks first in beef cattle, second in dairy cattle, second in all cattle combined, second in goats and seventh in hay production.

With some activities and gatherings discouraged due to Covid-19, home landscaping projects and backyard gardening increased in popularity. The Randolph County Backyard Gardener classes, taught by extension agents, reached a total of

459 North Carolinians locally and across the state. The series consisted of six two-hour online classes where members and experts shared research-based resources focused on lawn care, fruit and vegetable production, culinary herbs, pollinator gardens and native plants. These classes also served as a prerequisite for students interested in training to become a certified North Carolina Master Gardener Volunteer in Randolph County. Randolph County now has 12 newly trained Master Gardener interns com-

pleting their volunteer hours for their initial certification. These individuals will assist with extension events and service projects focused on horticulture education in Randolph County.

The 4-H slogan, “Learn by Doing” was on full display in in 2021 and 4-H members and staffers had overcome pandemic challenges and alternate schedules to deliver hands-on experiences. Allison Walker, a 4-H leader, and county horticulture agent Annie Mills, partnered to distribute 1,500 garden kits in May 2021.

The pre-boxed kits were available at every Randolph County Public Library as well as the Cooperative Extension Office. Each garden box contained tomato seeds, cucumber seeds, lettuce seeds, zinnia seeds, peat pots, ziffy expandable pellets, soil, a 4-H Gardening brochure and a packet with resources and growing instructions.

Every student at Balfour Elementary received a garden box.

The Randolph County 4-H summer programs were curtailed

by Covid limitations but the group still offered some unique handson learning experiences for youth and their families throughout the summer. Butterfly kits, where participants could experience the entire life cycle of the butterfly, were popular. Pinewood Derby kits were also distributed, allowing participants to use their creativity and imagination to build the best and fastest car. A program called “More Than Ag. In A Bag” includ-

Final goodbyes The Associated Press AMONG THE entertainers who died this year was a children’s author whose books were enjoyed by millions around the world. Beverly Cleary, who died in March, channeled memories from her youth in Oregon to created beloved characters such as Ramona Quimby, her sister Beatrice “Beezus” Quimby and Henry Huggins. Here’s a look at some of the artists and entertainers we lost this year.

Jessica Walter, 80. Her roles as a scheming matriarch in TV’s “Arrested Development” and a stalker in “Play Misty for Me” were in line with a career that drew on her astringent screen presence. March 24.

Beverly Cleary, 104. The celebrated children’s author whose memories of her Oregon childhood were shared with millions through the likes of Ramona and Beezus Quimby and Henry Huggins. March 25.

DMX, 50. The iconic hip-hop artist behind the songs “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Party Up (Up in Here)” whose distinctively gruff

voice and thoughtful messages in his rhymes made him one of rap’s biggest stars. April 9.

Jim Steinman, 73. The Grammy-winning composer who wrote Meat Loaf’s best-selling “Bat Out Of Hell” debut album as well as hits for Celine Dion, Air Supply and Bonnie Tyler. April 19. Kidney failure.

Lloyd Price, 88. The singer-songwriter was an early rock ‘n’ roll star and enduring maverick whose hits included such up-tempo favorites as “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” “Personality” and the semi-forbidden “Stagger Lee.” May 3.

Ned Beatty, 83. The Oscar-nominated character actor who in half a century of American movies, including “Deliverance,” “Network” and “Superman,” was a booming, indelible presence in even the smallest parts. June 13.

Biz Markie, 57. A hip-hop staple known for his beatboxing prowess, turntable mastery and the 1989 classic “Just a Friend.” July 16.

Floyd Cooper, 65. An award-winning illustrator and author of children’s books whose mission to offer

FILE PHOTO

In this Oct. 22, 1980, file photo, actor Ed Asner, left, who plays newsman Lou Grant on the CBS television show of the same name, smiles during rehearsal at CBS studio in Los Angeles. candid and positive images of Black history included subjects ranging from Frederick Douglass to Venus and Serena Williams. July 16.

Dusty Hill, 72. The long-bearded bassist for the Texas blues rock trio ZZ Top. July 28.

Ron Popeil, 86. The quintessential TV pitchman and inventor known to generations of viewers for hawking products including

the Veg-O-Matic, the Pocket Fisherman, Mr. Microphone and the Showtime Rotisserie and BBQ. July 28.

Don Everly, 84. He was one-half of the pioneering Everly Brothers whose harmonizing country rock hits affected a generation of rock ‘n’ roll music. Aug. 21.

Ed Asner, 91. The burly and prolific character actor who became a

s .

Kenny J Kidd

IRT-1948J-A

Financial Advisor 211 Worth St Asheboro, NC 27203-5557 336-328-0416

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

ed everything from bread making to growing your own jewelry.

Embryology is a program offered through 4-H that gives the youth involved a hands-on look at the life cycle of a chicken. The program saw over 1,200 participants this year in 56 classrooms in Randolph County.

The Randolph County 4-H Youth Livestock show was held in person, after the previous year being virtual, the first weekend in August. The event featured 68 competitors showing cattle and goats from Randolph, Guilford, Chatham, Stanly, Cabarrus, Johnston, Rockingham, Richmond, Anson, Cumberland, Wake, Person, Moore, Montgomery, and Stokes counties. Scarlett Farms in Snow Camp hosted the event.

Brandon Hartman served as judge and the Trinity High School FFA served concessions.

In November, Henry and Bambi Craven welcomed 4-H and FFA youth to their farm for the county’s annual livestock judging competition. This year 55 youth put their bovine knowledge to the test. Livestock judging is evaluating livestock based on their characteristics by comparing each animal in a class to the ideal standard of each species.

The N.C. Cooperative Extension Center in Randolph County contributed to this report and works weekly with the North State Journal to deliver important information about Randolph County agriculture.

star in middle age as the gruff but lovable newsman Lou Grant, first in the hit comedy “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and later in the drama “Lou Grant.” Aug. 29.

Willard Scott, 87. The beloved weatherman who charmed viewers of NBC’s “Today” show with his self-deprecating humor and cheerful personality. Sept. 4.

Stephen Sondheim, 91. The songwriter who reshaped the American musical theater in the second half of the 20th century with his intelligent, intricately rhymed lyrics, his use of evocative melodies and his willingness to tackle unusual subjects. Nov. 26.

Michael Nesmith, 78. The singer-songwriter, author, actor-director and entrepreneur who will likely be best remembered as the wool-hatted, guitar-strumming member of the made-for-television rock band The Monkees. Dec. 10.

Anne Rice, 80. The novelist whose lush, best-selling gothic tales, including “Interview With the Vampire,” reinvented the blood-drinking immortals as tragic antiheroes.

Dec. 11.

Sally Ann Howes, 91. She was a child actor before she later starred in the 1968 film “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” with Dick Van Dyke. Dec. 19.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

7

obituaries

Carl Worth Frazier Carl Worth Frazier, age 82, of Randleman passed away December 21, 2021.

Carl was a native of Randolph County and retired from Galey & Lord. Music was Carl’s passion, aside from Golda. Carl played in several blue grass bands or anywhere someone would listen.

Working on lawn mowers was his specialty. He was proud of his family. Carl is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Edith Frazier, wife, Golda Anne Hudson Frazier, brothers, Bobby, Odell, Pearle, Ronald, and Donald Frazier; sisters, Shirly Frazier and Patsy Hill.

Survived by his children: Carl “Buddy” Frazier, Terry Frazier, Tammy Mesa (Wayne), Mickey Frazier (Donna); grandchildren: Austin Mesa, Nicki Reeder (Luke), T.J Frazier, Brandi Frazier (Tony), Dillon Frazier and Miranda Frazier; great grandchildren: Wyatt, LilyBeth, Hattie, Levi, Landon, Mackenzie and Anthony; brothers, Kenneth Frazier and Charles Frazier (Dawn); sister, Carrie Belle Hunt.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, December 29, 2021 from 1:30 – 2:30 pm at Pugh Funeral Home, 600 S. Main St., Randleman, NC 27317. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 pm at Randolph Memorial Park, Asheboro with Rev. Junior Dawkins officiating.

Donald Ray Garren

August 4, 1962 - December 18, 2021 Donald Ray Garren, 59, of Asheboro, passed away Saturday, December 18, 2021 at his home.

A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. David Hunt Officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Memorial Gardens.

Donald was born on August 4, 1962 in Randolph County.

He had been employed with Thomas Built Buses for 32 years.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and was an avid fan of NASCAR. Donald was preceded in death by his father, Boyd Hayes Garren, and his grandson, Easton Matthews.

Mr. Garren is survived by his daughters, Brittany Matthews and husband Brandon of Florence, SC, Brandi Morris and husband Justin of Asheboro; mother, Rosa Crotts Garren of Asheboro; sister, Clairmae Robbins of Asheboro; brothers, Richard Garren, Roger Garren and wife Trish, Jerry Garren and wife Angie, all of Asheboro; grandchildren, Holdyn Matthews, Hudson Matthews, and Kimber Morris.

The family will receive friends at Ridge Funeral Home from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 22, 2021, and other times at the home of Brandi and Justin Morris.

Memorials may be made to The Salvation Army, 345 N. Church Street, Asheboro, NC 27203.

James Rhoton, Jr.

Hollie Dean Kearns

May 21, 1940 - December 21, 2021

October 4, 1948 - December 20, 2021

James Howard Rhoton, Jr., 81, of Sophia, died Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at Randolph Health in Asheboro.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Randleman, NC. Born May 21, 1940, in Scott Co., VA, Mr. Rhoton was the son of the late James Howard and Bonnie Van Zant Rhoton. He enjoyed gardening, the outdoors, loved to laugh and his dog, “Cooper.” James was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Mr. Rhoton was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, being baptized on July 4, 1977.

In addition the his parents, Mr. Rhoton was preceded in death by his sisters, Ruth Rhoton and Suella Bledsoe, his brother, David Rhoton, and his grandson, Jamie Laster.

Mr. Rhoton is survived by his wife, Carolyn Rhoton; daughters, Brenda Rhoton, Debra Brady and husband Robert, Pam Christian and husband Marty, Candice Long and husband Kenneth; sons, Kenneth Wayne Rhoton, Dennis Rhoton and wife Amy, David Rhoton and wife Cheri; 14 grandchildren including Christina Siler and James Christian; and 18 great grandchildren.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the ICU Nurses at Randolph Health.

Hollie Dean Kearns, 73, of Asheboro, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at W. G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury.

A funeral service will be conducted 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Mountain View Church, where he was a member, with Rev. Clint Alan Kearns officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors.

Hollie Dean was born on October 4, 1948, in Randolph County to the late Samuel Edward Kearns and Lillie Ledwell Kearns. Mr. Kearns proudly served in 82nd Airborne in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He retired from Sara Lee after 36 years of service and then went to work for Culp Industries in High Point for three years. Hollie Dean enjoyed going to the beach, riding in his golf cart, and spending time with his family, and his dog Gracie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Michele Kearns; and brother, Jimmy Kearns.

Hollie Dean is survived by his wife, Edith Lineberry Kearns of the home; daughter, Sandy Kearns of High Point; sisters, Susie Register of Wilmington, Betty Kearns of Asheboro; brothers, Hollis Kearns and wife Betty Sue of Asheboro, Walton Kearns and wife Diane of Asheboro; grandchildren, Hollie Kearns of Asheboro, Reagan Lisenby of Asheboro; and several nieces and nephews.

Dwight Hill January 22, 1944 - December 19, 2021 Dwight McLane Hill, 77, of Sophia, passed away Sunday, December 19, 2021 at his home.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Central Carolina Community Church, where he was a member, with Rev. Ed Arroyo, Rev. Tim Isley, and Rev. Frankie Gentry officiating.

Dwight was born on January 22, 1944 in Guilford County to the late Ernest McLane Hill and Verta Lee Vestal Hill.

He retired from Green Lines Transportation in Randleman as a truck driver. He loved his 4-wheeler, hunting, his grandchildren, and his family.

In addition to his parents, Dwight is preceded in death by his son, Gregory Hill; brothers, Gary Hill, Charlie Hill; and infant sister, Martha Linda Hill.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Cheryl Hill of the home; daughter, Angela Worley and husband Darrell; adopted daughter, Ellen Staley Lucas and husband Jeff; stepsons, Matthew Dix and wife Jessica, Timothy Dix and wife Nikki; grandchildren, Noah Worley, Declan Worley, Darrell “Boo” Worley, David “Sampson” Colt Worley, Joshua Dix, Lilly Dix, Eli Dix, Sarah Dix, Dakota Dix, Maddie Dix, Dustee Lucas, Grant Lucas; and lifelong friend, Donna Staley of Randleman.

Peggy Causey

November 28, 1932 - December 18, 202 Peggy Ellen Perdue Causey, 89, of Asheboro, died Saturday, December 18, 2021 at Randolph Health in Asheboro.

Funeral services will be conducted 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 27, 2021, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Frankie Hall and Rev. Greyson McNeill officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Shepherd Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Born November 28, 1932, in Davidson Co., NC, Mrs. Causey was the daughter of the late Tip and Josie Hill Perdue. She was formerly employed with AcmeMcCrary and retired from Jockey International.

In addition to her parents Mrs. Causey was preceded in death by her husband, William Lewis Causey; sons, Mickey Causey, Billy Wayne Causey; brothers, Austin Perdue, Kenneth Perdue, Ardle Lee Perdue; and sister, Doris Hurley.

Survivors include her daughters, Glenda McDowell (Larry), Shannon Davis (Steve); son, Ronnie Causey (Betty); sisters, Betty Causey, Shirley Rich, Rhonda Albertson (Don); brothers, Larry Perdue (Brenda), Stevie Perdue (Veronica); grandchildren, Sonya Goforth, Shane McDowell (Sandy), Devan Causey; great grandchildren, Maya Goforth, Allie Goforth, Shana Goforth, Brenee Goforth (Hunter), John McDowell, and Anna McDowell.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 27, 2021, at Ridge Funeral Home, prior to the service.

2 Nancy Presnell Overman 1942 - 2021

Nancy Presnell Overman, age 79, of Asheboro passed away on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at Woodland Hill Center.

Mrs. Overman was born in Randolph County on February 13, 1942 to Doctor Boyd and Sadie Hicks Presnell. Nancy retired from DJO Mills (formerly Rampon). Nancy loved going to the movies and spending time with her friends. In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, James Dexter Overman.

She is survived by her daughters, Shelia Overman Auman of Asheboro and Joyce Renee Hall of Asheboro; son, James Dexter Overman, Jr. of Asheboro; 6 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; and special friend, Vickie Bowman of Asheboro.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 4600 Park Rd., Suite 250, Charlotte, NC 28209.

Brenda Lee Whitley Taylor 1940 – 2021

Brenda Lee Whitley Taylor, age 81, of Asheboro passed away on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family who loved her so much.

Mrs. Taylor was born in Florence, SC on August 21, 1940 to James and Edith Chance Whitley. Brenda was employed as a technical secretary for an Architectural Engineering firm where she met her husband 63 years ago. Early in their marriage Brenda quit work to become a full time mother and homemaker. She was a faithful follower of Christ and her life was defined by faith in her Savior. Brenda was a former member of Green Memorial Baptist Church in Charlotte and a current member of Sunset Avenue Church of God. She was very active with Bible study, youth activities and was a Christian counselor. Brenda was also very artistic. She enjoyed sewing, calligraphy, interior decorating, and antique restoration. She loved to garden, especially roses. Brenda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister. In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her brother, Jerry Whitley.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Pat Taylor; children, Pamela “Sherrie” Mattocks (Cooper) of Sanford, Gwen Hazlehurst (Tim) of Cary, Jeff Taylor (Migie) of Gastonia, and Rodney Taylor of Minneapolis; 12 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and 1 on the way; and sister, Kathy James (Jeff) of Longs, SC.

Joshua Albert Eubanks, Jr. 1939 – 2021

Joshua Albert Eubanks, Jr., age 82, of Asheboro, passed away on December 21, 2021 at his home.

Mr. Eubanks was born on March 19, 1939 in Carteret County to Joshua and Effie Eubanks.

He was a veteran of the Army National Guard and was a member of Richland Baptist Church. He was owner and operator of Eubanks Generator and Starter Service. In addition to his parents, Mr. Eubanks was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Price Eubanks, son, Al Eubanks and sister, Ethel Barrow.

Mr. Eubanks is survived by his daughter, Mary Lynn Eubanks and husband Frank Roque of Southern Pines; grandchildren, Jason Eubanks and fiancée Ashley Marie, Josh Eubanks, Maggie Roque and husband Colin Durst, Chip Roque and fiancée Jenni Harle; great grandchildren, Ellie and Sawyer Eubanks.

The family will receive friends Thursday, December 23, 2021, 10:00 am - 10:45 am at Richland Baptist Church, 2323 Old Humble Mill Rd., Asheboro.

Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am with Rev. Tommy Smith and Rev. Tommy Kidd officiating.

Burial will be in the church cemetery

The family request memorials be made to Richland Baptist Church, 2323 Old Humble Mill Rd., Asheboro, NC 27205.

Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is serving the family.

2

WEDNESDAY

7.21.21

WEDNESDAY

7.7.21 #3

W

WE

#1

WED

JU

HI H LO L

PREC P

“Join the

Celebrate “Join the thelife conversation” of your loved ones. conversation” Submit obituaries and death notices to County be published Stanly Journal in Randolph ISSN: 2575-2278 Record at

North State Journal obits@randolphrecord.com (USPS 20451) Publisher (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Editor

Publisher Xxx

R

R

B R

Neal Robbins Sports Editor Cory Lavalette Editor

Matt Mercer Senior Opinion Editor Frank Hill

Sports Editor

Design Editor Cory Lavalette Lauren Rose

Senior Opinion Editor

Published each Wednesday by

Frank Hill

North State Media LLC

1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Design Editor Albemarle, Lauren RoseN.C. 28001

Published each Wednesday (704) 269-8461

by North State Media, LLC INFO@STANLYJOURNAL.COM 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 STANLYJOURNAL.COM Raleigh, N.C. 27609 TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 online at nsjonline.com TOorSUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 or Annual online at nsjonline.com Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, Annual Subscription Price: $50.00N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. POSTMASTER: andStanly at additional mailing offices.

County Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W,

a le p d o c

fo d d g

c p d k s W d

s

Randolph Record for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

8

STATE & NATION

US population growth at lowest rate in pandemic’s 1st year

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press NEW YORK — U.S. population growth dipped to its lowest rate since the nation’s founding during the first year of the pandemic as the coronavirus curtailed immigration, delayed pregnancies and killed hundreds of thousands of U.S. residents, according to figures released Tuesday.

The United States grew by only 0.1%, with an additional 392,665 added to the U.S. population from July 2020 to July 2021, bringing the nation’s count to 331.8 million people, according to population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The U.S. has been experiencing slow population growth for years but the pandemic exacerbated that trend. This past year was the first time since 1937 that the nation’s population grew by less than 1 million people.

“I was expecting low growth but nothing this low,” said William Frey, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution’s metropolitan policy program, Brookings Metro. “It tells us that this pandemic has had a huge impact on us in all kinds of ways, and now demography.”

Once there’s a handle on the pandemic, the U.S. may eventually see a decrease in deaths, but population growth likely won’t bounce back to what it has been in years past because of fewer births. That will increase the need for immigration by younger workers whose taxes can support programs such as Social Security, Frey said.

“We have an aging population and that means fewer women in child-bearing ages,” Frey said. “We

LM OTERO | AP PHOTO

Light afternoon traffic flows in downtown Dallas, Aug. 12, 2021. see younger people putting off having children and they’re going to have fewer children.”

The decision not to have children by young families may be driven by financial worries as much, if not more, than health concerns, said Linda Kahn, a professor at New York University and lead researcher in a study that showed that almost half of New York City mothers who had been trying to become pregnant before the pandemic began in the U.S. in March 2020 stopped in the first few months of the outbreak.

“COVID really was a stress test of our whole system,” Kahn said.

“Women were much harder hit in the pandemic. They lost their jobs

at greater rates and had to give up their jobs, often to do home-schooling. The pressures on women were enormous and there’s really no safety net in the U.S.” The population estimates are derived from calculating the number of births, deaths and migration in the U.S. For the first time, international migration surpassed natural increases that come from births outnumbering deaths. There was a net increase of nearly 245,000 residents from international migration but only about 148,000 from new births outnumbering deaths.

International migration dropped by about half from the previous year because of COVID-19 restric-

tions, such as borders being closed for nonessential travel and the closure of many consulates abroad where visas are issued. As recently as 2016, the U.S. had a net increase of more than 1 million international migrants.

In more than two dozen states, deaths outnumbered births. Deaths exceeded births in Florida by more than 45,000 people, but the state’s migration gain of more than 259,000 people, the nation’s highest.

University of New Hampshire demographer Kenneth Johnson described the decline in the United States’ natural population increase as “stunning,” saying it was

the smallest spread of births over deaths in more than 80 years.

“Of course most of this is COVID, but not all of it,” Johnson said. “U.S. natural increase was already at a low ebb prior to COVID with the fertility rate hitting a new record low each year and deaths steadily rising due to the population aging.”

Between 2020 and 2021, 33 states saw population increases, primarily through domestic migration, while 17 states and the District of Columbia lost population.

States in the Mountain West saw the biggest year-over-year growth rate, with Idaho growing by almost 3%, and Utah and Montana each seeing population increases of 1.7%.

The District of Columbia lost 2.9% of its population, while New York and Illinois lost 1.6% and 0.9% of their populations, respectively. In pure numbers, California had the greatest net population loss of any state from people leaving: almost 353,000.

While the pandemic gave some people the option of working remotely, data released last month by the Census Bureau shows there was no great migration in the U.S. because of it.

Some did take advantage of the opportunity, however. Tired of the heat, hurricane threats and traffic in Houston, tech worker Heidi Krueger moved to a small town south of Knoxville, Tennessee, in September. She can see the Great Smoky Mountains from her front porch.

“Because I was working from home during the pandemic, it made it feasible to move and still keep my same job,” Krueger said. “As long as I have internet, I can still connect to our clients.”

US probes potential of drivers playing video games in Teslas

By Tom Krisher The Associated Press Athens, Ohio — The U.S. has opened a formal investigation into the potential for Tesla drivers to play video games on a center touch screen while the vehicle is in motion.

In a document posted last week on its website, the agency says the feature, called “Passenger Play,” may distract the driver and increase the risk of a crash.

“To date, the agency has received one owner complaint describing the gameplay functionality and has confirmed that this capability has been available since December 2020 in Tesla “Passenger Play”-equipped vehicles,” a NHTSA spokesman said in an email. “Before this time, enabling gameplay was only possible when the vehicle was in park.”

The probe, which covers all four Tesla models, the S, X, Y and 3, was opened “to evaluate the driver distraction potential of Tesla ‘Passenger Play’ while the vehicle is being driven.” Investigators “will evaluate aspects of the feature, including the frequency and use scenarios of Tesla “Passenger Play.”’

The probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 580,000 electric cars and SUVs from model years 2017 through 2022.

The NHTSA documents do not list any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.

GILLIAN FLACCUS | AP PHOTO

Vince Patton, a new Tesla owner, demonstrates on Dec. 8, 2021, on a closed course in Portland, Ore., how he can play video games on the vehicle's console while driving.

An investigation can lead to a recall. A message was left early Wednesday seeking comment from Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations department.

Tesla owner Vince Patton, who lives near Portland, Oregon, filed the complaint with the agency last month. In August, he was watching a YouTube video of a Tesla owner who discovered that he could now play a video game on his touch-

screen while the vehicle is moving.

Curious to see for himself, Patton drove his own 2021 Tesla Model 3 to an empty community college parking lot, activated a game called “Sky Force Reloaded” from a menu and did a few loops.

“I was just dumbfounded that, yes, sure enough, this sophisticated video game came up,” said Patton, a 59-year-old retired broadcast journalist who lives near Portland, Or-

egon.

He tried Solitaire, too, and was able to activate that game while driving. Later, he found he could browse the internet while his car was moving.

Patton, who loves his car and says he has nothing against Tesla, worries that drivers will play games and become dangerously distracted.

“Somebody’s going to get killed,” he said. “It’s absolutely insane.”

So he filed the complaint early last month.

“NHTSA needs to prohibit all live video in the front seat and all live interactive web browsing while the car is in motion,” Patton wrote in his complaint. “Creating a dangerous distraction for the driver is recklessly negligent.”

Earlier in December, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for a similar issue caused by a computer configuration error, raising questions about whether Tesla was being allowed to do something that other automakers are not. Most automakers disable front touch screens while vehicles are moving.

In the Mercedes case, drivers could browse the internet or watch television while the cars were moving. The automaker said it intended to disable the features while the cars are in motion. The issue was corrected by updating a Mercedes server.

NHTSA already is investigating why Tesla’s “Autopilot” partially automated driving system keeps crashing into stopped emergency vehicles, and it has inquired about why Tesla didn’t file recall documents when it did an over-the-air internet update in an effort to address the safety problem. It’s also looking into the performance of Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software after getting a complaint that it nearly caused a crash.

Tesla says neither system can drive vehicles and that drivers must be ready to intervene at all times.

Need Ammo?

.223  .45  .40  .308  9mm NCammunition.com

TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 13 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021 | STANLYJOURNAL.COM

Stanly County Journal

JACOB KUPFERMAN | AP PHOTO

Panthers fall to Buccaneers Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule talks with quarterback Sam Darnold during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Charlotte.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Oakboro Police Chief TJ Smith suspended Stanly County The Town of Oakboro has suspended their police chief, T.J. Smith, for two weeks without pay after he made officers aware of a fake COVID-19 vaccine clinic, according to the town.

SCJ contacted the town and asked for more information on the situation.

Leslie Hatley-Murray, the assistant town clerk, provided SCJ with a letter from Oakboro’s town administrator, Doug Burgess, to Smith. In the letter, dated Dec. 21 and title, “Re: Final Decision of Disciplinary Action,” Burgess says, “This letter communicates my decision regarding your discipline for violating the Town’s Personnel Policy and the Police Department’s Policy Manual...”

The letter states that the detrimental personal conduct includes “notifying law enforcement officers to attend a ‘clinic’ where they would be able to obtain proof of COVID-19 vaccination cards without being vaccinated.” Burgess cited three ways this violated Smith’s ethics obligations: fraud, willful acts that endanger the property of others, and serving a conflicting interest.

Burgess told Smith he was placed on unpaid leave for two calendar weeks and on probation for six calendar months. Burgess also said, “Further violations will lead to discipline up to and including dismissal.”

The letter also noted that Smith has a right to appeal the decision. Smith has been the chief of police in Oakboro since 2016.

SCJ reached out to Smith but didn’t hear back by print deadline.

5

20177 52016 $0.50

8

Stanly’s Top Story of 2021: Charlotte Pipe & Foundry coming to Oakboro

By David Larson Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — Reviewing the year’s stories, one stood out among the rest: the announcement from Charlotte Pipe and Foundry that they plan to relocate to Oakboro. The decision is likely to be a game-changer for the county that will positively impact tax revenue, job offerings and economic activity long into the future.

The worst-kept secret in town for 12 years has been the potential relocation of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, a global industrial-pipe manufacturer, to Oakboro. Those involved in discussions did so under the code name “Project Blue Sky.” But in 2021, they were finally able to speak more openly, as the company announced its plans to officially

make the dream a reality.

“I’m happy to say that we can strike out Project Blue Sky and put Charlotte Pipe on there,” Mayor Joyce Little said.

The Oakboro Town Council and Stanly County Board of Commissioners considered and approved many resolutions that changed zoning, provided tax breaks and otherwise cleared the way for the project.

“We’re really excited about this opportunity, and we’re going to have fun and we’re going to provide a lot of good jobs down here,” Roddey Dowd Jr., CEO of Charlotte Pipe, said at one county commission meeting. “I thank you from all of our 1,550 associates for this opportunity.”

Stanly County provided a 20year tax-incentive agreement where Charlotte Pipe will pay the entirety of the taxes it owes an-

“This is one of the biggest plants in the United States — a $425 million plant with 530 high-paying jobs. This is the largest project built in North Carolina in probably 30 years.”

Charlotte Pipe CEO Roddey Dowd Jr. nually and the county will issue a grant in the name of 80% paid, as long as the company meets the established benchmarks of $325 million or 400 jobs created.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce Utility Development Fund and the Gold-

en Leaf Foundation have each offered Oakboro $2.5 million to help with the cost of upgrades needed to make the facility a reality.

N.C. Rep. Wayne Sasser (R-Stanly) told SCJ during a tour of the facility a few months later, “This is the biggest thing ever here. I was actually in high school when Alcoa came here, so I’ve seen a lot. You can go work for them [Charlotte Pipe] and average $100,000 a year with benefits — so when you retire, you’ll have $1 million in your 401K.” The Department of Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey and his chief fire marshal also attended the tour and both voiced their approval of Charlotte Pipe’s safety standards and preliminary building methods that have been See TOP STORY, page 2

Local political candidates gear up for 2022 elections

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — Although the 2022 primary elections have been rescheduled to May 17 by the N.C Supreme Court, many of the major political races within Stanly County have already taken shape.

As of the filing period that was halted on Dec. 8, there have been 19 candidates that have filed among 11 local positions: N.C. House District 67; N.C. Senate District 33; five county commission seats (District 1, 2, 3,4, and at-large); two county school board seats (District 1 and atlarge); sheriff and clerk of Superior Court.

Out of the 19 registered candidates, 17 are running as Republicans while sheriff candidate Davara Ponds and clerk of Superior Court candidate Todd Lowder

are running as Democrats.

In their state General Assembly races, both Rep. Wayne Sasser (N.C. House District 67) and Sen. Carl Ford (N.C. Senate District 33) are currently running unopposed as they each seek reelection to their third terms in their respective seats after initially campaigning for them in 2018.

With five Stanly County Board of Commissioners’ seats up for grabs, the Stanly County Freedom Network — a local conservative grassroots network that has emerged from a Facebook group with nearly 1,600 members — will look to reform the makeup of the board, with the group running three candidates for county commission positions.

Levi Greene, Patty Crump and Thomas Townsend have each filed for that office and are campaigning together with Stanly County Board of Education

candidate Meghan Almond, on Dec. 16. “Unlike career politiwho will square off with incum- cians, I’m not promising to make bent Dustin Lisk for the District people happy all the time. But I 1 school board seat. With an en- will, however, commit to makdorsement from the network, ing all decisions with my own reschool board at-large incumbent search, thoughtful considerations Anthony Graves is currently run- and convictions.”

As for the two other commisning unopposed in his reelection sioner races, newly-appointed effort.

Greene is set to challenge Mike chairman Tommy Jordan and Haigler and incumbent Mike Bar- Brandon King are seeking the bee for the District 1 commission- District 3 seat, while Trent Hater seat while Crump is running ley is running unopposed for the against incumbent Lane Furr for District 4 seat held by newly-apthe commissioner at-large seat. pointed vice chairman Zach AlTownsend will face Jon Ledbet- mond. Almond is not seeking reter for the District 2 commission- election and will instead endorse er seat as incumbent, and former Hatley, Jordan told SCJ in an inchairman Bill Lawhon has not yet terview on Dec. 16.

In an election for Stanly Counfiled for office.

“I’m proud to stand along- ty sheriff, incumbent Jeff Crisside Patty Crump and Thom- co will be challenged by Davara as Townsend to defend the liber- Ponds, who works as a chief ofties we all hold dear,” Greene told ficer for a private investigations a crowd at a Stanly County Freedom Network campaign event See ELECTIONS, page 2

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

2 WEDNESDAY

12.29.21 #217

“Join the conversation” Stanly County Journal ISSN: 2575-2278

Publisher Neal Robbins

Editor David Larson

Sports Editor Cory Lavalette

Senior Opinion Editor Frank Hill

Design Editor Lauren Rose Published each Wednesday by North State Media LLC 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Albemarle, N.C. 28001 (704) 269-8461 INFO@STANLYJOURNAL.COM STANLYJOURNAL.COM

TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 or online at nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $25.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Stanly County Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W. Albemarle, N.C. 28001

Yuengling accuses Bud Light of trampling on trademark The Associated Press A trademark tiff between America’s oldest beer maker and America’s best-selling beer brand appears to be over before it really began.

Last week, D.G. Yuengling & Son, the nearly 200-year-old Pennsylvania-based brewer, demanded that its much larger rival, Anheuser-Busch, stop using a tagline for its forthcoming Bud Light Next zero-carb beer, noting it closely resembled one already trademarked by Yuengling.

“Get ready for the next generation of beer,” read the Dec. 14 post from Bud Light’s Twitter account, according to a screenshot provided by Yuengling. The same graphic appeared on Bud Light’s Instagram and Facebook accounts that day, Yuengling said.

Yuengling quickly objected, pointing out its own low-carb brew — Flight, introduced in February 2020 — is marketed as the “next generation of light beer.” Yuengling registered that phrase with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office more than a year ago.

The brewer poked fun at Bud

TOP STORY from page 1 deployed on the 450-acre Charlotte Pipe construction site property located off of Silver Road.

“This is a big deal, and it will put Oakboro on the map,” Causey told SCJ. “I am very impressed with the size and scope of this.

Usually when you pour concrete in a textile finishing plant, you might have footings that are three feet deep but these might be 25feet deep.”

Due to the vast size of the Oakboro plant, the project is expected to require two more years of con-

LINDSEY SHUEY/REPUBLICAN-HERALD VIA AP, FILE

n this Feb. 21, 2020 file photo, Yuengling’s new upscale light beer, Flight, is seen on tap with Yuengling’s other beers Light, tweeting an image of a cartoon burglar — masked and suspended from a rope — pilfering Flight’s catchphrase. “We know imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but this is going a bit too far,” Yuengling tweeted at Bud Light.

And then Yuengling got serious, sending the St. Louis-based beer giant a cease-and-desist letter.

“Flight by Yuengling is one of our lead brands; it’s one of our fastest-growing brands,” Yuen-

gling spokesperson Paul Capelli said Wednesday. “We’ve created this great product, and if some other light beer takes our tagline and puts it on their brand, obviously that is extremely confusing for the consumer.”

Anheuser-Busch did not issue a formal response to Yuengling, but this week, Yuengling officials saw that Bud Light had scrubbed its social media accounts of the disputed posts and replaced them with ones that teased, “Get ready

struction until it is finished and ready to become Charlotte Pipe’s primary location.

“This is one of the biggest plants in the United States — a $425 million plant with 530 high-paying jobs. This is the largest project built in North Carolina in probably 30 years,” the Charlotte Pipe chairman, Roddey Dowd, Jr, said.

As one of America’s top manufacturers of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings, the business currently operates out of seven locations and has constantly expanded since it began in Charlotte with 25 employees in 1901.

ELECTIONS from page 1 company, after previously serving as Stanly deputy sheriff.

Meanwhile, clerk of Superior Court Michael Huneycutt (R) has announced that he is stepping down from his role after 15 years; Democrat Todd Lowder will join Republicans Michael Greene, Ginger Efird and Pam Blake in a race for that position.

In addition to all of the previously listed races, voters will fill three District 20A judicial seats for N.C. District Court. Republicans Phillip Cornett, John R.

for what’s next.”

“We had hoped they would do the right thing, and in the spirit of the holiday season, they gave us back what belonged to us. We say thanks and happy holidays and have a Flight on us,” Capelli quipped.

Last week wasn’t the first time that Anheuser-Busch, which is owned by Belgium-based Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV, had referred to Bud Light Next as “the next generation of beer.” Andy Goeler, vice president of marketing for Bud Light, used the phrase in a September interview on CNN. Anheuser-Busch released a statement touting its new light beer but did not answer questions about Yuengling’s trademark claim.

Yuengling and Anheuser-Busch have tangled before. Two years ago, the beer behemoth launched an ad campaign designating Seltzer, Pennsylvania— a real-life hamlet just a few miles from Yuengling’s historic brewery in Pottsville — as the “unofficial spokestown” of Bud Light Seltzer.

Yuengling clapped back in a tweet: “Get off my lawn.”

Nance and Thai Vang each currently campaign unopposed for the seats.

With the state’s initial filing period put on pause, the N.C. State Board of Elections has not yet announced when a new filing period prior to the primary elections will begin. On Jan. 11, the Wake County Superior Court will decide on whether or not it allows the current state General Assembly and federal congressional districts to stay as they are, after legislators gave final approval to redistricting maps in November.

MARK LENNIHAN | AP PHOTO

A sign for The New York Times hangs above the entrance to its building May 6, 2021, in New York.

Judge upholds ruling against NYT over Project Veritas memos The Associated Press NEW YORK — A New York judge has upheld an order preventing The New York Times from publishing documents between conservative group Project Veritas and its lawyer and ruled that the newspaper must immediately relinquish confidential legal memos it obtained.

The decision Thursday by State Supreme Court Justice Charles D. Wood in Westchester County, released Friday, comes in a defamation lawsuit Project Veritas filed against the Times in 2020.

Months after the lawsuit was filed, the newspaper reported that the U.S. Justice Department

was investigating Project Veritas in connection with the theft of a diary belonging to Ashley Biden, the president’s daughter. In that story, the Times quoted the memos, leading Project Veritas to accuse the newspaper of violating attorney-client privilege.

Wood upheld his earlier order preventing the Times from further publishing the memos, and also ruled that the newspaper must turn over physical copies of the documents and destroy electronic versions.

The newspaper reported it would appeal the ruling and seek a stay in the meantime. Publisher A.G. Sulzberger decried the ruling as an attack of press freedoms and alarming for “anyone

concerned about the dangers of government overreach inato what the public can and cannot know.” He also said it risked exposing sources.

“In defiance of law settled in the Pentagon Papers case, this judge has barred The Times from publishing information about a prominent and influential organization that was obtained legally in the ordinary course of reporting,” Sulzberger said in a statement reported by the Times that also asserted there was no precedent for Wood’s decision.

Project Veritas bills itself as a watchdog, often of media. It’s known for using hidden cameras and hiding identities to try to ensnare journalists in embarrass-

ing conversations and to reveal supposed liberal bias.

In a statement Friday, Project Veritas lawyer Elizabeth Locke hailed the ruling as “a victory for the First Amendment for all journalists and affirms the sanctity of the attorney-client relationship.”

“The New York Times has long forgotten the meaning of the journalism it claims to espouse, and has instead become a vehicle for the prosecution of a partisan political agenda,” Locke said.

“Today’s ruling affirms that the New York Times’ behavior was irregular and outside the boundaries of law.”

Wood also pushed back against the idea that the order endan-

gered press freedoms, writing in his ruling that “steadfast fidelity to, and vigilance in protecting First Amendment freedoms” can’t infringe on the fundamental rights of attorney-client privilege or privacy.

He wrote that while aspects of Project Veritas, including its journalistic methods, may be of public interest, its attorney-client communications are not.

News organizations, including The Associated Press, supported the Times and asked the court not to impose what they called an unconstitutional prior restraint on speech in a friend of the court brief filed last month by the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

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

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

A season of hope

This season, it seems we could all use that hope more than ever. For me, I could not do my job or get through most days without my own faith.

AS WE CELEBRATE Christmas this week, I hope we are all able to take time and reflect on the true meaning of this holiday for all who celebrate it.

In the Christmas story as found in the book of Luke, an angel appears to a group of shepherds. Speaking to them, the angel says, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2: 10-11).

With the birth of Jesus came the fulfillment of God’s promise to all mankind. It also brought a renewed hope to all who would believe in Him. It truly is the greatest story ever told.

This season, it seems we could all use that hope more than ever. For me, I could not do my job or get through most days without my own faith. While people can let us down, I am thankful the source of my hope comes from my faith. I am also thankful to live in a country where we are all free to practice our faith, no matter what it might be.

This holiday season, let’s first remember those who wear our nation’s uniform to protect those freedoms — especially

those separated from their own families. Let’s also keep their families in our prayers. We should also be thankful for our first responders and health care workers on the front lines who are all facing challenges like never before.

While our current troubles can often feel pretty bleak, it’s always important to remember that we have faced hard times before. From George Washington’s starving soldiers at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777, to the Civil War, to the Great Depression, Americans have always pulled through. In 2022, I am confident we can do so again by working together. Yet above all, I am confident and hopeful for the future because of the promise that was fulfilled on that first Christmas day.

From my family to yours, I wish each of you who celebrate, a very Merry Christmas. I also wish everyone a happy and healthy start to the New Year. I look forward to getting back to work on your behalf very soon and continuing to address the challenges we face. In the meantime, enjoy time with family and remember what’s most important — our faith, our families, and the blessings we enjoy living in this great country.

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Against the religion of ‘woke anti-racism’ The current wave of antiracism attacks those founding principles and condemns American society as irremediably racist.

“If you pull the camera back and think about 1965, and think about last week, there’s been massive improvement.

The question is why so many people pretend that that’s not true.”

That bracing dose of wisdom comes from John McWhorter, Columbia University linguistics professor and author of several books on other subjects, going back to his 2000 book, “Losing the Race: Self-Sabotage in Black America.”

He’s also a critic of what he calls, in the title of his latest book, “Woke Racism.” Despite that, he has been hired as a commentator for the New York Times.

McWhorter, who was born in 1965, correctly identifies the anti-racism of that era as aimed at “slavery and legalized segregation” and “consistent with, indeed compelled by, the nation’s founding principles.” In contrast, he argues the current wave of anti-racism attacks those founding principles and condemns American society as irremediably racist.

As someone who became eligible to vote in 1965, I would add to his depiction of successive historical cycles the thesis that each great advance in equal rights is followed by the plaint that things are just as bad as ever.

The passage of civil rights acts in 1964 and 1965 ended legalized racial segregation in the South and vastly reduced exclusion of black people from jobs and public accommodations nationwide. But the late 1960s saw dozens of riots in northern cities with lasting damage to black neighborhoods, cheered on by local militants “mau-mauing” (novelist Tom Wolfe’s term) sympathetic liberals.

Their listeners had to admit they were right in saying that northern cities did not turn out to be the “promised land” that postwar black migrants from the South expected. But white liberals were typically too intimidated to point out that the “militants” were wrong in saying that nothing had changed.

The current wave of anti-racism comes after the election and reelection, both times with popular vote majorities, of a black president — something considered unthinkable back in 1965.

Once again, the response is to insist that things are as bad as ever. This wave of anti-racism, writes McWhorter, “becoming mainstream in the 2010s, teaches that because racism is baked into the structure of society, white peoples’ ‘complicity’ in living within it constitutes racism itself, while for black people, grappling with the racism surrounding them is the totality of experience and must condition exquisite sensitivity toward them, including a suspension of standards of achievement and conduct.”

For a set of beliefs so contrary to fact to thrive, it requires

that it be taken as a religious faith. And that’s exactly what McWhorter thinks “woke racism” is: “a new religion (that) has betrayed black America,” as his subtitle puts it.

It’s not hard to see in this religion a doctrine of original sin (see the NYT’s 1619 Project), persecution of heretics (McWhorter gives myriad possible examples) and ritual prayers for forgiveness (from those who “cringe hopelessly at the prospect of being outed as a bigot”).

The policy responses to post-1965 mau-mau were lax policing, lavish welfare for single mothers, racial quotas and preferences. The results were sky-high crime, broken families and overmatched students on campuses.

Policies advanced in the latest wave include defunding or discouraging policing, lavish welfare for single mothers (in President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better bill) and racial quotas — plus career destruction and banishment for those who make the slightest misstep against the latest speech code.

McWhorter commits useful heresy by pointing out the predictable, actually precedented, consequences are bad for black people — and for Americans generally. The Black Lives Matter movement’s success has had about 2,000 more black people killed than would have under previous murder rates.

He also notes that propagators of the woke catechism tend to be affluent white liberals, from the corporate chiefs empowering their human resources and “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” priesthoods to the urban white voters who support the political equivalents of yesteryear’s grand inquisitors.

I would add, as one with adult memories of both cycles, that the post-1965 rioters, including those who died, were almost all residents of low-income black neighborhoods.

The more recent wave of “mostly peaceful” — as most media called them — riots seem to have been more multiracial, including white and often drug-addled or mentally ill “antifa” protesters.

Today’s woke anti-racists, like the post-1965 mau-mauers, were wrong that black people were no better off than before despite great political advances. Their success in cowing the larger society, however, owed something to the sense that things had not improved as much as people hoped.

Unfortunately, as McWhorter argues, they made things worse for everybody in both cases.

Let’s hope ordinary Americans of all ancestries once again manage to make things better.

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.

3

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

4

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Pitt lands former USC QB Kedon Slovis Pittsburgh Kedon Slovis is trading USC for Pittsburgh. The former Trojans quarterback announced Dec. 21 he is heading east to join the ACC champion Panthers, where he will get a chance to replace ACC Player of the Year Kenny Pickett. Slovis entered his junior season at USC as a Heisman Trophy contender but struggled to find any rhythm. He passed for 2,153 yards with 11 touchdowns against eight interceptions in nine games before being lost for the season with a leg injury.

BASKETBALL

Ginobili, Chambers, Whalen among 1sttime hoop hall nominees Spring field, Mass.

Former San Antonio Spurs star Manu Ginobili, SuperSonics and Suns forward Tom Chambers and Olympic and WNBA champion Lindsay Whalen are among the first-time nominees for the Basketball Hall of Fame. Among the returning nominees announced Tuesday are 2004 NBA Finals MVP Chauncey Billups and former UConn and Detroit Shock star Swin Cash. More than 150 players, coaches and other contributors will be considered for induction in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame during the Sept. 9-10 enshrinement ceremonies.

The full Class of 2022 will be announced during the NCAA Final Four in New Orleans in April.

TENNIS

Raducanu named BBC sports personality of the year London U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was voted the BBC’s sports personality of the year Sunday to cap an incredible rise throughout 2021. The 19-year-old Raducanu became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam singles title with her triumph in New York in September after not dropping a set in the tournament. She was the first British woman since Virginia Wade in 1977 to win a major tournament, enabling her to beat Olympic gold medalists — diver Tom Daley and swimmer Adam Peaty — to the BBC honor.

OLYMPICS

South Korean Olympic champion suspended over text messages Seoul, South Korea Two-time Olympic shorttrack speed skating champion Shim Suk-hee has been suspended for two months over her text messages that authorities say “marred the dignity of athletes,” a decision that could bar her from attending the Beijing Winter Olympics. In October, Shim was cut from the team after a local media reported what it described as text messages exchanged between her and her coach that insulted two teammates and suggested she might have deliberately tripped one of them, Choi Min-jeong, during 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.

DAVID J. PHILLIP | AP PHOTO

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker holds up the Commissioner's Trophy after the Braves defeated the Houston Astros in Game 6 to win the 2021 World Series.

Veterans fill 2021 sports year with memorable moments The ageless Tom Brady, golf’s Lefty the Spider-Man of open-wheel racing led a cast of athletes who stayed on top

By John Marshall The Associated Press Not even Father Time could get one over on Tom Brady.

Cementing his argument as the NFL’s greatest quarterback, Brady switched teams and kept winning, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 31-9 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55.

Brady’s seventh Super Bowl title, at age 43 no less, was one of the best moments of 2021, when a continuing pandemic could not dim the brightest of stars of the

sports world.

“It’s hands down one of the greatest accomplishments in sports history,” said Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski, lured out of retirement by Brady to join him in Tampa Bay. Brady wasn’t the only veteran athlete to steal the spotlight in 2021, the year of the mature.

Phil Mickelson gave the silver-haired set a thrill, becoming the oldest major champion in golf history by winning the PGA Championship at 50. Lefty left some of the world’s best — and younger — golfers in his wake at Kiawah Island, winning his sixth major championship at an age when many players are looking to move up a tee box.

“There’s no reason why I or anybody else can’t do it at a later age,” Mickelson said. “It just takes

a little more work.”

The Milwaukee Bucks veered back on course behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, winning their first NBA title in 50 years by outlasting the surprising Phoenix Suns in six games. The Atlanta Braves exercised a few demons of their own, beating the Houston Astros in six games for their first World Series title since 1995.

The Tampa Bay Lightning won their second straight Stanley Cup title — this one outside the NHL’s playoff bubble.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were held a year late but, as always, produced some unforgettable moments.

Texas-born Italian sprinter Marcell Jacobs shocked the world by winning the men’s 100 meters, putting his unlikely name among the sport’s greats: Jesse Owens,

Carl Lewis, Usain Bolt.

Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah electrified the crowd by breaking Florence Griffith Joyner’s 33-year-old 100-meter record and had the second-fastest time ever to win the 200 meters.

American gymnast Simone Biles bowed out of four finals while battling “the twisties,” but overcame the mental block to take bronze in balance beam, regaining a piece of herself in the process. Sunisa Lee filled in nicely for the gymnast widely considered the greatest in history, becoming the fifth straight American woman to win the all-around title.

Helio Castroneves turned back the clock at 46, becoming the fourth four-time Indianapolis 500 champion by schooling one of the sport’s hottest young stars.

IndyCar’s “Spider-Man” passed 24-year-old Alex Palou with two laps remaining and the energy from the crowd pushed him to the finish line — and 16 feet up the fence at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in a familiar celebration.

MLB payrolls drop 4%, back to 2015 level Less pay for players led to the current work stoppage, the league’s first since 1994-95 The Associated Press NEW YORK — Major League Baseball payrolls dropped 4% in 2021 compared to the league’s last full season, and the $4.05 billion total was the lowest in a fully completed year since 2015.

Falling payrolls have sparked the labor unrest that led to the sport’s first work stoppage in more than a quarter-century this month, when the collective bargaining agreement expired and owners locked out the players Dec. 2.

Payrolls are down 4.6% from their record high of just under $4.25 billion in 2017, the first year of the just-expired CBA, according to information sent to clubs by the commissioner’s office and obtained

by The Associated Press on Monday. Spending on big league players has not been this low since a $3.9 billion total in 2015.

The Los Angeles Dodgers led baseball with a $262 million payroll in 2021, the second highest in major league history behind the

franchise’s $291 million mark in 2015.

The Dodgers were hit with a $32.65 million luxury tax bill on Dec. 20 as the sport resumed penalizing big spenders after a one-season suspension of the tax due to the pandemic. San Diego was the only other club assessed a tax, charged $1.29 million after failing to make the playoffs with a roster led by Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Yu Darvish, Wil Myers and Eric Hosmer.

Five teams finished within $4 million of the $210 million threshold on payrolls as calculated for luxury tax purposes: Philadelphia ($209.4 million), the Yankees ($208.4 million), the Mets ($207.7 million), Boston ($207.6 million) and Houston ($206.6 million).

Raw payrolls and luxury tax payrolls are measured differently.

Payrolls include salaries, prorated shares of signing bonuses and other guaranteed income, and earned bonuses. In some cases, parts of salaries that are deferred are discounted to present-day value.

The luxury tax payroll is somewhat more forward looking because it is calculated off the average annual values of contracts for 40-man roster players. It also in-

ASHLEY LANDIS | AP PHOTO

MLB’s labor strife, fueled in part of by a drop in salaries, is the first work stoppage in 26 years. cludes about $15.5 million per team for benefits.

Payrolls rose steadily from $3 billion in 2011 to $4.07 billion in 2016, then reached a high in 2017 before receding slightly to $4.2 billion each in 2018 and ’19. Because of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting shortened season, salaries were paid at a 60/162 rate in 2020, dropping payrolls to $1.75 billion.

Players have proposed the luxury tax threshold be lifted to $245 million next year to spur spending. Owners have offered $214 million, a gulf that led to tense negotiations followed by a management lockout that started when the fiveyear labor contract expired Dec. 1. The work stoppage is baseball’s

first since a 7½-month strike in 1994-95.

Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer was the highest-paid player at $38 million. He was placed on administrative leave July 2 under MLB’s domestic violence policy following an allegation of assault, which he has denied. Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout was second at $37 million, followed by Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole at $36 million.

The Dodgers paid tax each season from 2013-17, and their total bill has reached $182 million since the luxury tax began in 2003.

That’s second only to the New York Yankees’ $348 million bill.

World Series champion Atlanta was 14th at $148 million.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

NHL withdraws from Olympics after COVID surge

USA Basketball announces Kerr as next Olympic men’s coach

The rapid spread of the omicron variant canceled scores of games and led the league to temporarily shut down

The Golden State Warriors coach replaces Gregg Popovich

couldn’t ask for a finer group of high character individuals to help me lead our national team,” Kerr said. “Our goal, of course, is to win and make our country proud. We will work hard to do so.”

By Tim Reynolds Kerr would be the 16th differThe Associated Press ent coach to take the U.S. men STEVE KERR saw every- into an Olympics. Of the previous thing that Gregg Popovich went 15, 13 have emerged with gold. through as coach of the U.S. men’s His hiring for the job represents national team, saw exactly how the first major decision by Grant difficult it was last summer for Hill in his role as managing dithe Americans to emerge from rector of the men’s national team, the Tokyo Olympics with another the position he’s taking after Jerry Colangelo helped the Americans gold medal.

And when he walked off the win the last four Olympic gold floor for the last time in Tokyo, he medals in that role.

“I have been very, very was drained. blessed, very lucky, in my “It wasn’t easy,” career,” Kerr said at the Kerr said. news conference, a few It was just further minutes before Hill preproof that the days of “Our goal, sented him with a USA U.S. cakewalks to gold of course, Basketball jersey bearare over. He decided to is to win ing the number “24” — a take the job anyway. nod to the Paris Games.

Kerr was formal- and make “And this opportunity is ly announced as the a result of being in the next coach of the U.S. our country right place at the right men’s team on Dec. proud. We time, working with the 20 in San Francisco, will work right people, having a lot a not-very-well-kept of people lift me up along secret in recent weeks hard to do the way.” that the Golden State so.”

Kerr has three NBA ticoach would be taktles as coach of the Waring over for Popovich riors, won five more as and leading the Amer- Steve Kerr a player, was part of the icans — if they qualify staff that won gold at — into the 2023 Basketball World Cup and the 2024 the Tokyo Games and won a seParis Olympics. Kerr’s assistants nior-level gold medal for USA will be Miami Heat coach Erik Basketball as a player in the 1986 Spoelstra, Phoenix Suns coach World Cup. “His basketball acumen, his Monty Williams and Gonzaga ability to connect with people, I coach Mark Few. Williams has been an assistant think his understanding and rebefore, under former U.S. coach spect of the international game, Mike Krzyzewski. Spoelstra and along with some other factors, Few were involved in coaching certainly played a role in this prothe U.S. select team, which was cess,” Hill said in an interview assembled to practice against the with The Associated Press about the selection process. “As I talkOlympic team, this past summer.

“Coaching the USA men’s na- ed to people and went through tional team comes with great re- consideration, he was the perfect sponsibility — one that calls for a fit. His wealth of experiences, ingroup effort with a team of coach- cluding that on the international es committed to the team, to the stage, I think really differentiatgoal and to each other — and I ed him.”

The Associated Press THE NHL IS not sending players to the Beijing Olympics over concerns that the pandemic will disrupt the league’s ability to complete a full season.

The decision is an abrupt turnaround from September, when the NHL, NHL Players’ Association, International Olympic Committee and International Ice Hockey Federation struck a deal to put the best players in the world back on sports’ biggest stage after they skipped the 2018 Pyeongchang Games. The fast-spreading omicron coronavirus variant forced the scrapping of those plans.

A week ago, the NHL attempted to halt the spread of the omicron variant by reintroducing more restrictive COVID-19 protocols, which included daily testing and limiting player gatherings, especially on the road.

Then a sudden rash of postponements brought the total to 50 this season, a daunting number to reschedule and complete an 82-game season while taking an Olympic break for more than two weeks in February. The NHL’s bottom line is at stake, with the league and players drawing no direct money from competing at the Winter Games.

The decision comes long before the league faced a Jan. 10 deadline to pull out without financial penalty. As a result, the men’s Olympic hockey tournament will go on without NHL players for the second consecutive time.

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, the likely U.S. Olympic starter, expressed displeasure Tuesday with the decision not to go and called the rash of postponements overkill.

5

MARK HUMPHREY | AP PHOTO

Russia forward Evgeni Malkin seals off the puck from USA defenseman Ryan McDonagh during a game during the 2014 Winter Olympics. NHL players will not take part in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing because of the coronavirus surge.

Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby already was bracing for the possibility of the NHL not participating and, at the age of 34, ending what could be his final chance to represent Canada at the Olympics one more time.

“These are opportunities and experiences of a lifetime that you don’t get very many of as an athlete, and you might only get one,” said Crosby, who won Olympic gold with Canada in 2010 and 2014. “It just might happen to fall in your window and if it doesn’t happen to work out, it’s unfortunate.”

While the NHL and NHLPA agreed on Olympic participation last year as part of a collective bargaining agreement extension, the deal to go to Beijing was contingent on pandemic conditions not worsening.

Unless the Beijing Games are postponed a year like Tokyo’s, the players wait until 2026 to again

play in the Olympic men’s hockey tournament.

“It’s a thing you’ve been looking forward to for a very long time,” Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman, a lock for Sweden’s team, said. “For us to not be able to go, it’s going to hurt for a while.”

The NHL did not participate in the Olympics until 1998, which started a string of five in a row through Sochi in 2014. The season was not stopped in 2018, leaving mostly professionals playing in Europe and some college players to make up the national rosters in South Korea, where the IOC was reluctant to pay for insurance and expenses.

Russia, which won gold at the Pyeongchang Games, immediately becomes the favorite without NHL players leading the Americans thanks to an influx of homegrown talent playing in the Kontintental Hockey League.

MATTHEW DAE SMITH / LANSING STATE JOURNAL VIA AP

Former Michigan State gymnastics coach Kathie Klages testifies in Lansing, Michigan, in February 2000.

Ex-gymnastics coach wins appeal on Nassar-related conviction Former Michigan State coach Kathie Klages had been convicted of lying to police

By Anna Liz Nichols The Associated Press LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Court of Appeals on Dec. 21 overturned the conviction of a former Michigan State University gymnastics coach who was accused of lying to investigators about her knowledge of sexual abuse complaints against Larry Nassar in the 1990s.

In a 2-1 decision, the court didn’t determine that Kathie Klages had told the truth to police, but rather that her interviews in 2018 were not crucial in a state investigation of how the university had responded to allegations about Nassar.

The interviews with Klages came after Nassar was sent to prison. State prosecutors never presented evidence that anyone “got away” with a crime due to her alleged cover-up, said judges Elizabeth Gleicher and Cynthia Diane Stephens.

“It was inconsequential, rather than material,” they said, even viewing it in a light most favorable

to prosecutors in the state attorney general’s office.

Klages was sentenced to 90 days in jail in 2020 on felony and misdemeanor counts of lying to police.

Two women testified that in 1997, while attending a youth gymnastics camp, they told her that Nassar had sexually abused them, long before he was publicly accused by others in 2016.

Klages maintained her innocence, insisting she could not remember a conversation with either girl two decades later.

“The investigation into ‘who knew what and when about Larry Nassar’ was supposed to have been

an investigation of potential criminal conduct, not a roving inquiry designed to expose MSU’s mistakes and to further embarrass the institution,” the appeals court said in an opinion footnote.

Nassar, who was a team doctor for Olympic women gymnasts, was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison after hundreds of women and girls accused him of decades of molestation under the guise of medical treatment.

Larissa Boyce testified that as a 16-year-old she gathered the courage to tell Klages what had happened to her, only to have Klages hold up a piece of paper and say there would be serious consequences if she filed a report.

The attorney general’s office said it was reviewing the appeals court opinion and had no immediate comment. John Manly, an attorney who represented Nassar’s victims in lawsuits against Michigan State, hopes there’s an appeal

to the state Supreme Court.

The appeals court “appears to focus on protecting the reputation of MSU at the expense of Nassar’s victims,” he said.

Klages’ attorney, Mary Chartier, said they were thrilled with the outcome.

“It has been a long battle, but Mrs. Klages has finally been vindicated,” Chartier said.

Klages was the second person to be convicted of charges related to Nassar. His former boss, Dr. William Strampel, was sentenced to jail for neglect of duty after not enforcing safety protocols on Nassar after a patient said Nassar assaulted her in 2014.

Klages was MSU’s women’s gymnastics coach for 27 years. She suddenly retired in 2017 after athletic department officials learned that she had defended Nassar to her gymnasts when allegations against him made headlines in 2016.

ment. area.”

EMPHIS, Tenn. — Faced For Nutbush resident He also cited a widespread fear the threat of overburdened of being unnecessarily exposed to fear of contracting the itals, states across the country matched with the worry th the29, virus. onverting convention centers, Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 2021 “All around, people are scared,” could lose stores that are ts facilities and performance the neighborhood. Offici he said. es into backup treatment sites Their fears are not unfounded. ven’t said if stores would oronavirus patients.

In this majority-black city along the Gateway facility was What some Memphis, Tenthe Mississippi River, lawmakers If they did, shopping wo e, residents don’t get is why in and community leaders have been come more difficult for re r city, a shopping center in the sounding the alarm over what they especially for those who ar dle of a predominantly black, duringhave the height of the panBy Michael Tarm no means of transpo see as a disturbing trend ofgrams the viincome residential neighbordemic.

The Associated Press to stores located farther aw rus killing African Americans at a d has been chosen.

Among other report highlights: “For people who higher rate. ty and state officials are con— Seven states imposed 18 new don’t CHICAGO — States and the fedcar, in what Nutbush resident Patricia Hared that eral an government influx of patients death sentences 2021do —they tyingdo?” ask carried out 11 exa record low.ris, Alabama and Oklaecutions the fewest since who spoke to The Ass ris wondered aloud if city officials m Memphis, as this wellyear, as nearby homathe imposed fourwhile each. lugging Califor- a bott as support for the death penPress were “trying to contaminate” sissippi, 1988, Arkansas and rural nia and Texas both imposed three. of bott alty has continued decline. tergent, a package neighborhood.

Tennessee, will straintohospiFlorida imposed two and Nebraska That’s according to an annual reterone and other items from t Activist Earle Fisher, an Their fears arethe echoed acrossreleased andAfriTennessee each. port on death penalty ADRIAN SAINZ | AP PHOTO A Lot to her car. She note can American Memphis pastor, country:in Governors, mayors — Six of the 11 inmates executed mid-December. Three of the grocery store clos understands the anxiety.

“This health death experts in numerous This in 2021 were black. Black andrecently Hissentences were carried out in Friday, April 3, 2020 photo, shows Gateway Shopping Center panic defendants made up more January days before President Donher house and she already is an honest and reasonable cones are also researching and in Memphis, Tenn. thansaid.

60% oftravel the death sentences Trump left office.

Annual exefarther to get to Gat cern and skepticism,” Fisher tructingaldmakeshift medical imposed this year. cutions have steadily declined since “When we do things “I think it’s par for the course for ities. peaking at 98 in 1999.

— Some 2,500 prisoners remain got to consider the people black people to be righteously a Chinese restaurant and other Lee has disclosed a few: the Mun New York City, they’re turnon state death rows. Some 50 are Pandemic-related disruptions she said. “W skeptical of governmentalleftintersic City Center in Nashville, the businesses. o the Javits convention on federalneighborhood,” death row at a Terre partlyCenter accounted for the low numHaute, after the needprison to make the neighb ber of executions this year — though withIndiana, Locating a treatment center for vention that did not consult Chattanooga Convention Center, in Chicago, the McCormick reduced their 2021 marked the seventh worse than it already is.” the Knoxville Expo Center — all coronavirus patients there pos- people on the ground first.”Trump executions e Convention Center; and inconsecunumbers a quarter. when there were fewer U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, Doug McGowen, the city’s chiefby nearly sites away from residential neigh- es two problems, residents say: dy, Utah,tive theyear Mountain AmerThe Justice Department’s June than 30 executions and fewer than phis Democrat, said the d GateIt could potentially expose them operating officer, said theorder borhoods.

Expo Center. halted federal executions 50 new death sentences, the report doesn’t make sense. beThe Gateway Shopping Cen- to the virus amid concerns that way site was being considered he U.S. said.

Army Corps of Engiwhile it reviewed Trump-era prac“I’m sure there cause it could potentially accoms has beenThe scouting locations tices. The Biden administration alsoare othe federal death penalty ter wasin the Nutbush neighborhood blacks are contracting COVID-19 withdrew notices of intent to seek put on hold in June by Attorney Tennessee, and officials here of Memphis is different. The cen- at higher rates; and it could force modate hundreds of beds. He said that would work, and they the death penalty several cas-rather t General Merrick Garland. have in used those compiled a list of 35 possi- ter features a Save A Lot grocery some of the stores they rely on to if it were converted to a treatment es.

But the administration did still neighbo The report from the Death Pensite, it would hold only mildly ill into a residential backup sites. They haven’t re- store, a Rent-A-Center, a Fami- close. keep pressing for death sentences alty Information Center noted how Cohen said. besupremacist Nutbush resident and commu- coronavirus patients who could ly Dollar, a beauty supply shop, ed the whole list, but Gov.states Bill scramfor white Dylann Roof, some death-penalty

6

Report: 11 executions in 2021 mark three-decade low

bled for alternative execution methods after pharmaceutical companies restricted access to drugs once widely used for lethal injections. It highlighted Arizona’s proposal this year to use cyanide hydrogen gas.

Support for the death penalty, meanwhile, has steadily declined from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% this year, according to a 2021 Gallup poll cited in the report. Since the mid-1990s, opposition has risen from under 20% to around 45%.

States also continue to rescind

CHUCK ROBINSON | AP PHOTO

This March 22, 1995, photo, shows the interior of the execution chamber in the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Ind.

PEC, oil nations agree o nearly 10M barrel cut

death-penalty laws. Virginia did so in March, bringing the number of states to have abolished the death penalty to 23. Three, including California, have moratoriums on executions.

Executions have been increasing-

bin Salman, a son of King Salman, assented to the deal.

“I go with the consent, so I UBAI, United Arab Emiragree,” the prince said, chuckling, — OPEC, Russia and other roducing nations on Sunday drawing a round of applause from ized an unprecedented pro- those on the video call.

But it had not been smiles and ion cut of nearly 10 million els, or a 10th of global supply, laughs for weeks after the soopes of boosting crashing pric- called OPEC+ group of OPEC mid the coronavirus pandemic members and other nations failed in March to reach an agreement a price war, officials said.

This could be the largest re- on production cuts, sending pricinquiries aboutArabia the number of vacBy Paul J. Weber Saudi sharply ion in production from OPEC es tumbling. cinated members.

Lawrence, Associated Press lon- criticized Russia daysLisa earlier over a perhaps The a decade, maybe spokeswoman for the Defense Dewhat itpartment, described as would comments said U.S.AUSTIN, EnergyTexas Secretary said they respond — Texas’ Repubthe kingdom, which Brouillette, who told credited the letters from Abbott and other lican governor Defense critical Sec- to of itself trying to appease ident Donald Trump’s per-the finds in due course. retary Lloyd Austin that state governors has said repeatedly will notin direct its National Trump, aAustin longtime OPEC critic. that l involvement getting duel- Guard getting the vaccine is critical to members to comply with a Biden Even U.S. senators had warned parties to the table and helpadministration order requiring all maintaining a heathy, ready force to end amembers price of war between Saudi Arabia to find a way to the military to get vac- that can be prepared to defend prices asHe American di Arabiacinated and Russia. nation. decided thatshale Guard for COVID-19, as GOPboost op- the far-higher production il pricesposition have collapsed as the members who refuse COVID-19 to the mandate grows.firms face vaccinations troops will be had barred from Gov. the Greg COVID-19 Abbott, who hascosts. be- American been navirus and funded drills and comehave one oflargely the nation’s out- federally to the kingdom fortraining the ss it causes halt-mostdeployed required maintain their2001, Guard spoken governors the rejection first time sincetothe Sept. 11, lobal travel and slowed in down of vaccine mandates of any kind, status. attacks over of Thursday Iranir energy-chugging sectorsGuard Army concerns officials said told the Texas National in an retaliation as manufacturing.

It has that 98% amid of theirregional active-dutytenforce October that its more than 20,000 sions. had received at least one dose of the stated members the oil were industry included in in his execmandatory coronavirus vaccine. utivenow orders banning any govern“They’ve spent over the last U.S., which pumps more Thousands of members of the mental entity from imposing vacmonth waging war on American e than any other country. military are seeking exemptions or mandates. while we are defendut some cine producers have been oil producers Texas has the largest National refusing the shots. But overall, the ing theirs.

This not how friends ctant to Guard ease supply.

The carof troops — particularly contingent of any state and percentage is treat friends,” said Sen. Kevin nd other nations on Sunday quickhasn’t disclosed how many of its active-duty members — who ly got the shots exceeds nationmembers are vaccinated. a Republican fromthe North ed to allow Mexico to cut only Cramer, According to the Centers Abbott’s latesta beef the al average. before the OPEC+ deal.

000 barrels a month, stick-withDakota, Disease Control and Prevention, Biden came after U.S.forproducers have already point for an administration accord initially five other GOP governors sent Aus- about 72% of the U.S. population been reducing output. The Amerhed Friday marathon tin a after milderaletter this week urging age 18 or older has gotten at least Institute laudo conference 23 requirements na- ican Petroleum one shot. In Texas, about 70% of the him to between reconsider the Sunday’s global saying it s. The nations together agreed population age 5pact, or older has been for Guard members on stateedacvaccinated, according to state data. tive duty, barrels when theyaare under will their help get other nations’ stateut 9.7 million day has stationed morethe than governor’s owned oilAbbott production to follow ughout May and orders June. but are still fund1,000 Guard members along the ed by the federal government. he group reached the deal just lead of U.S. producers that are tryOklahoma’s Republican gover- U.S.-Mexico border and given them ing to adjust to plunging s beforenorAsian markets re- Defense the unusual power todemand. arrest mihas already sued the Brouillette said the U.S.charges. did notIn ned Monday and as internaDepartment over the vaccine man- grants on trespassing commitments of a its own al benchmark he extended ban on vacdate, and Brent Abbott crude indicated make that October, cine mandates to private Texas could$31 do the cuts, but was businesses able to ed at just over a same. barrel production under an executive order.

However, guardsmenshow suf- the obvious — that plunging American“If unvaccinated shale producers fer any adverse consequences with- the state’s Republican-dominated demand because of the pandemggle. in the State of Texas, they will have Legislature did not approve a meais expected to slash oil proideo aired byPresident the Saudi-owned sure passing the U.S. prohibition into only Biden and hisicadlite channel Al-Arabiya ministration to blame,” Abbottduction. said. law.

Military leaders Bijan have Zanwarned Neither Abbott nor the Texas Iranian Oil Minister wed the moment that Saudi months troops would face GuardPrince immediately responded to for ganeh also toldthat state television rgy Minister Abdulaziz

ly concentrated in Southern states.

Texas executed three inmates and Oklahoma two in 2021. Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri each executed one. The Trump administration executed three. The last, Dustin Higgs, was executed five

days before Joe Biden’s inauguration. The federal executions brought the year’s total to 11.

Trump’s Justice Department executed 10 federal prisoners in 2020, ending a 17-year hiatus. States suspended their death penalty pro-

convicted in the 2015 slayings of nine members of a black congregation in South Carolina, and for Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev.

Despite a campaign pledge to decisively end executions, Biden hasn’t addressed the issue publicly as president. Anti-death-penalty activists fear federal executions could restart if Trump were to run again for president and win a second term or if another capital punishment advocate becomes president.

Associated Press

GOP governors challenge Pentagon over Guard vaccine mandate

SAUDI ENERGY

In this photo released by Saudi Energy Ministry, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al-Saud, Minist Energy of Saudi Arabia, third right, chairs a virtual summit of the Group of 20 energy minister his office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, April 10, 2020, to coordinate a response to plummet prices due to an oversupply in the market and a downturn in global demand due to the pandem

that Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the deal but its president, Andrés praise.

“The pure size of the cu the United Arab Emirates would Manuel López Obrador, had said JOEL MARTINEZ/THE MONITOR VIA AP precedented, but, then ag cut another 2 million barrels of Friday that he had agreed with the corona Trump U.S. will compenoil a day of between theGuard Members the Texasthem Army atop National standthat by asthe Texas Gov. Greg Abbott andis 10 the otherimpact governors hold a press conference at Anzalduas on Oct. 6, 2021, in Mission, what Mexico cannotTexas. add to having on demand,” said M OPEC+ deal.

The three countriesParksate med Ghulam, an energy an did not immediately acknowledge the proposed cuts.

Raymond James.

“The big Oil Deal with OPEC the cut themselves, though about Army readiness,” Army Secty troops. consequences if they did not fol-ZanGhulam and Plus ischief done.

This will hunganeh attended the to video confer- Pentagon retary ChristineBut Wormuth said in others spokesman Johnsave low what is considered be a lawmay not becontinenough. of thousands of energy jobs it“To ence. a statement. those who said Thursday that Defense ful order to get the COVID-19 vac- Kirbydreds ue tosaid refuse the “This vaccineisand nota tempo Secretary Lloyd Austin’s main concine.

But only in the last week or socuts at are least in the United States,” Trump Officials said other planned a med-industry cern in is a getting service have they publicly begun following liefdecision for theon energy tweet.as“Imany would like topending thanka final would stand in the deal, meaning ical or administrative exemption, I This i members as possible. through on those threats. the global economy. andvaccinated congratulate President Puan 8-million-barrel-per-day cut “What he would tell these in- strongly encourage you to get the According to the services, at least is too big begin to beinvollet to fail and tin of Russia and KingtoSalman ofIf not, from July through the are endnot of the vaccine. we will dividuals if he had the chance 30,000 service members liance showed Saudi Arabia.” year and a 6-million-barrel cut for yet vaccinated, but several thou- speak to them directly is to get the untary separation proceedings.”responsibil thistoagreement,” said Per M said 16sand months beginning in tempo2021. vaccine, The In addition the more than if they Kremlin are medically eligi- President of those have gotten 2,700 ArmyNysveen, soldiers who received said. “Get theheld vaccine rary or permanent medical or ad- ble,” Kirby the head of ana Vladimir Putin a joint call “This will enable the rebalancwritten refusing the because it’s Trump the best and way Saudi to pro-King ministrative exemptions RystadforEnergy.

“Even tho with Sal-reprimands ing of the oil marketsapproved. and the exOf the remaining — which is like- tect themselves and their units. shot, six were fired from leadership pected rebound of prices by $15 man to express support of the production cuts are small ly 20,000 or more — thousands That’s the readiness concern — get- positions. Students at the U.S. Milwhat the market needed a deal.

It also rate saidasPutin per theway short term,” itarysepAcademy at West Point who ting the vaccination close tospoke are barrel workingin their through thesaid postpone thenot stock with Trump about refuse the oil aexemptions statement fromor Nigeria’s the vaccine and do get buildi 100%arately as possible.” process have flat- oil exemptionproblem, will not bethe wor “Vaccinating our soldiers against an approvedstraints ly refused. That’s about 1.5% of the market and other issues. ministry. commissioned as officers.

COVID-19 is first andoffered foremost cautious roughly 1.3 million total active-dunow avoided.”

Analysts Mexico had initially blocked

& CREMATORY 522 North 2nd St. P.O. Box 7 Albemarle, NC 28002 Phone 704-983-1188

460 Branchview Dr. NE P.O. Box 367 Concord, NC 28026 Phone 704-786-1161

13575 Broadway Ave. P.O. Box 100 Midland, NC 28107 Phone 704-888-5571

www.hartsellfh.com

12115 University City Blvd.

P.O. Box 219 Harrisburg, NC 28075 Phone 704-247-1722

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021 Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020

7

obituaries obituaries

Jason Tony Efird Smith ASON EUGENECook “GENE” ONY MONROE 72, of Janet LynnSMITH, Burris Dianne EFIRD, 94, went home to be with TRockwell, NC, went to be with JhisDianne Cook, 74, of Norwood, Lord Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at his his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Connell

home in Stanfield. passed away Sunday, December Geneat was born October 9, 1925, in 26, 2021 her home.

Cabarrus County the July late Simeon Mrs. Cook was to born 2, Jason and William the late Sarah Ella 1947, toEfird the late Gilbert Burris Efird. In addition to his In and Margaret Lowder Pearce. parents,to heher wasparents, precededshe in death addition was by his preceded wife, JewellinLittle Efird; sisters, also death by her Mary Lambert, Almond, brothers, DannyFannie Eugene Pearce Minnie Furr,David WilmaPearce.

Burleson and and William Aileen Huskey; andco-owner brothers, Homer Dianne was the Getus EfirdService and Wayne ofEfird, Cook’s Marine for Efird, Sr. over 35 years. She was a loving private funeral will be and A dedicated wife, service mother, held on Saturday, 11, 2020 grandmother andApril friend.

Dianne at Love’ s Grove United will be remembered asMethodist a faithful Churchto Cemetery Stanfield servant the Lordinand a officiatedto byher Rev.entire Jim White.

Burial caregiver family.

She willafollow at the Love’ s Grove United was dear friend to many.

Methodist Church Cemetery, A graveside service will be4360 Polk Ford Road, Stanfield. held on Thursday, December 30, Survivors Gerald 2021, at 11:00include am, atson Fairview Wayne (Gail) Efird of Albemarle; Memorial Park, 1425 East Main daughter Lisa Efird (Mark) Hartsell Street, Albemarle. ofDianne Stanfield; granddaughters, is survived by her Kelly Efird Barbee and Lauren C. husband of 54 years, William Hartsell (Justin) Crump; and great“Butch” Cook; daughters, Crystal grandsons, Ian Patrick Simmons and Page and husband, Jeff; Tiffany Elliot Jacob Simmons.

Cook and fiancé, Tim Franklin; Memorials may be made to Love’s grandchildren, Nic Page, Drake Grove United Methodist Church, PO Page, Tanner Franklin; brother, Box 276, Stanfield, NC 28163-0276.

Donald Earl Pearce; fur babies, Tahoe and Teal.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Cook family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com

P

on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Burrisby Connell, hisJanet homeLynn surrounded family. A60, ofprivate Salisbury passed away family service will beMonday, held.

December 20, 2021.can Her Online condolences be funeral made at service will be 1:00pm at stanlyfuneralhome.com Stanly in11, Locust TonyFuneral was bornHome August 1947 with Rev.County RonnietoRogers in Stanly the late Pearlie officiating.

Burial will Lee Asbury Smith and Emmer follow thethe Philadelphia Smith.

Heinwas son in law of Pat Baptist Church Cemetery.

The at and Mick Cagle where he worked family receive friends the fishwill house for many yearsat until Stanly Funeral and he opened Anchor House Seafood Care from inCremation Rockwell. He andof hisLocust wife Becky 6owned until 8and PM on Wednesday. operated Anchor House March 28,retiring 1961 in forBorn 25 years before inStanly 2009.

County, NCwas shea charter was themember daughter Mr. Smith ofand Roy Gaskin Burris (Shirley) deacon at Open Door Baptist and the in Richfield. He loved the Church lateand Bessie Mae Clontz Burris.

Lord his family abundantly.

Tony She memberhusband, of Friendship waswas a wonderful father, and Baptist Church Stanfield and grandfather and in could fix anything worked forhands manyon. years as a CNA. he put his She preceded in by death by Mr. was Smith is survived his wife her husband Billy Mac Becky Cagle Smith of theConnell. home, sons Walter Smith and Robbie Survivors include daughter Smith; daughter Henderson Crystal Lynn of Kayla Salisbury, (Brandon); grandchildren Danielle, brother Dale Burris (Sherri) and Steele Smith, Keaton ofDustin, Mount Pleasant and sister and Ella Henderson; brother David Ann Holland (Jim) of Hickory, Smith; sistersTanya Kay Kriechbaum, stepchildren Crisco Karen Stevenson, Ruby Eudy, and (Rodney) of Albemarle, Dwayne Dorothy(Angie) Smith (Nick).

Connell of Roanoke, VA, He is preceded in death grandchildren Cora Lynnbyand brothers Joestep Smith, Wayne Smith, James and grandchildren Claude Smith, Wade Smith, Robert Kaitlyn, Conner, Emily, Smith, andand sisterSarah, Mary Morris.

Katherine as well as 2 Memorial contributions can be nieces, 1 nephew, 5 great-nieces made to Open Door Baptist Church and 3 great nephews.

She is also at 44563 by Hwy 52,cats Richfield, survived her GingerNC and 28137 or to Hospice & Palliative Care Mackey. of Cabarrus County at 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Pauline Tucker

AULINE ELIZABETH ALMOND TUCKER, 98, passed away peacefully at Trinity Place, Albemarle, NC on April 11, 2020.

Pauline was born on March 22, 1922 in Cabarrus County, NC to the late John Richard Almond and Alice Ada Ann Lambert Almond.

She is survived by her three daughters, Gay Michel (Jack), Oak Island, NC; Pamela Rushing (Foreman), Oakboro, NC; Kathy Hunt (Marc), Albemarle, NC; her son, Chris Tucker (Chris Lear), Washington, DC. She will be greatly missed by her five grandchildren, Heather Rushing Chaney (Shannon), Michael Rushing, Elizabeth Michel Hartzog (Craig), Jack Michel, Jr. (Jenn), and Woody Hunt as well as seven great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews.

The family expresses its sincere gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Trinity Place for the care they provided Pauline.

A private graveside service will be held on Monday, April 13, 2020. A celebration of Pauline’s life and legacy will be held this summer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the BrightFocus Foundation at www. brightfocus.org.

M

S

HIRLEY MAE HAIRE, 73, of Albemarle passed away on April 11, 2020 at Atrium Health Stanly. The family will hold a private graveside service for Mrs. Haire.

Shirley was born December 12, 1946 in Washington, DC to the late Charles Richard Bateman and Elizabeth Mae Mulligan Bateman.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 30 years Vaughn Smith of Albemarle; sister Sandra Painter of Gainesville, VA; half-brother Robert Bateman of Stevensville, MD; step-children Heather Smith of Jacksonville, FL and David Smith of New London, NC; 4 step-grandchildren; nieces Cyndi Hentschel of Leesburg, VA and Cheryl Hardy of Aylett, VA; 16 grandnieces and nephews; and Gus the dog. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Haire family.

D

Danny Luther

J

Jerry Fincher

ERLE LORRAINE AUSTIN ANNY PAUL LUTHER, ERRY FINCHER passed from HELMS, 72, of Marshville, 65, of Norwood, passed away this life on April 3, 2020 at 8:05 passed away Wednesday, April 8, unexpectedly Thursday, April 9, pm. He was surrounded by his family 2020 at McWhorter Hospice House 2020 at Atrium Health Stanly in and holding the hand of the love of in Monroe.

Albemarle. his life. Jerry is preceded in death Lorraine was born April 28, 1947 Mr. Luther was born March 27, by three siblings, two brothers, Billy in Monroe to the late Homer David 1955 to the late Robert Fulton and Gilbert Fincher, and Larry Richard Austin and Jewell Delphia-Jane Helen Tucker Luther.

Fincher, and one sister, Barbra Joyce Austin. She was also preceded in Danny was survived by his wife, Moore. death by brothers, A.D. and Teddy Denise Burleson Luther of Norwood; He is survived by his wife, Eleanor FILE PHOTO Austin; and sister, Joy Austin. sons, Jeremy (Karen) Luther and Kate Fincher of the home, daughter, will receive friends JodyEd Luther; step-sons, Bryan CindyLou Fincher Jacobs of Wingate In The thisfamily Oct. 22, 1980, file photo, actor Asner, left, who plays newsman Grant on the CBS from 6:00 pm - 8:00 and Gregg (Anita) Whitley; NC., in sonLos andAngeles. daughter in law, Tommy television show of pm, the Friday, same name, Whitley smiles during rehearsal at CBS studio April 10, 2020 at Hartsell Funeral Grandchildren, Daniel Luther and (Tiffany) Fincher of New London Home of Albemarle. The funeral Hunter Zado, as well as his brother, NC., JulyStep 28. Children, Jimmy (Lisa) service will be at 11:00 am on Bob Luther Jr (Lorena), uncle Jack Lanier ofEverly, Locust NC, Wanda Don 84. He was(Bob) one-half Saturday at Pleasant Hill Baptist Luther and several other loved nieces, Krimminger of Locust NC., Eric of the pioneering Everly Brothers Church in Marshville, officiated nephews and cousins.

(Sharon) Lanier of Charlotte NC., whose harmonizing country rock

by Rev. John Miller and Rev. Leon Danny recently retired from Grandchildren-Trey (Gera) Whitson hits affected a generation of rock ‘n’ Whitley. She will lie in state for 30 Charlotte Pipe and Foundry after of Midland, Step-grandchildren, hits for Celine Dion, Air Supply and roll music. Aug. 21.

The Associated Press minutes prior to the service. She will a dedicated 37 years and worked Zach (Brittney) Washington, Aaron Ed Asner, 91. The burly and proBonnie Tyler. April 19. Kidney fail- (Kinsey) be laid to rest in the church cemetery. there with his sons and several other Washington, Caleb (Nayeli) lific character actor whoSetzer, became a ure.

AMONG THE entertainers who She is survived by her beloved friends and family members.

Washington, Beth (Robbie) star in middle as the gruff but Lloyd Price, 88. The singer-songdied thisofyear was aPaul children’s husband 47 years, Helms auDanny loved spending time at Matthew ( April )age Wallace, Step lovable newsman Lou Grant, writer was an early rock ‘n’ roll star thor whose books were enjoyed by of the home; son, Alex (Deanna) his lake house with his family and great-grandchildren, Britlyn-Eve first in the hit comedy Tyler and enduring whose millions thedaughter, world. Beverly Helms ofaround Pageland; Paula friends as well asmaverick vacationing with hits his Washington, Robert “The Setzer,Mary George Moore Show” and later in the included such up-tempo favorites Cleary, who died in March, chan(Cristin Brandt) Helms of Mint Hill; family. Danny and Denise enjoyed (Sara) Setzer, Tracy (Rob) Setzer drama “Lou Grant.”

Aug. 29. as “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” “Personalneled memories from her youth in grandchildren, Mason, Grant, and listening to beach music and loved to Bumgardener, Katie Underwood, Willard Scott, 87. beloved ity” and semi-forbidden “Stag- Andrew Oregon to created beloved charac- shag Raegan Helms; brothers, Boyce, dancethe every chance they could Underwood, StepThe great weatherman who charmed ger Lee.” May 3. ters such as Ramona Quimby, her Royce, Tim Austin; and sisters, get. He was an amazing father, loving great grandchild, Waylon Georgeviewers ofand NBC’s “Today” show with his Ned Beatty, The Oscar-nomsister “Beezus” Quimby grandfather PatriciaBeatrice Mullis, and Angel Tarleton. and83. great friend to Setzer brother Donald Lewis self-deprecating humor inatedHe character who in half Fincher andMemorials Henry Huggins.

Here’s a look many. may be made to the will neveractor be forgotten. of Albemarle, NC. and cheerpersonality.

Sept. a century of American in- fulJerry at some of the artists and entertainAlzheimer’ s Association, 4600 Park A celebration of life willmovies, be Fincher will be 4. laid to rest on StephenApril Sondheim, The songcluding “Deliverance,” ers lost250, thisCharlotte, year.

Rd.,we Suite NC 28209. announced once the current“Network” Wednesday 8,202091. at 11:00 am writer who reshaped the American and “Superman,” was a boomJessica Walter, 80. Her roles as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. at Canton Baptist Church. Anyone musical theater in the second half indelible presence a scheming matriarch in TV’s “Ar- ing, Hartsell Funeral Homein of even the interested in attending, please RSVP the 20th century with his intelsmallest parts.

Junethe 13.Luther rested Development” and a stalker Albemarle is serving atof704-796-2412.

Dr. Phil McCray ligent, intricately rhymedwill lyrics, his Biz Markie, 57. A hip-hop sta- and in “Play Misty for Me” were in line family.

Pastor Tommy Fincher use of evocative melodies and his with a career that drew on her as- ple known for his beatboxing prow- officiate. tringent screen presence. March ess, turntable mastery and the 1989 willingness to tackle unusual subjects. Nov. 26. classic “Just a Friend.” July 16.

24.

Michael Nesmith, 78. The singFloyd Cooper, 65. An award-winBeverly Cleary, 104. The celebrated children’s author whose memo- ning illustrator and author of chil- er-songwriter, author, actor-diries of her Oregon childhood were dren’s books whose mission to offer rector and entrepreneur who will shared with millions through the candid and positive images of Black likely be best remembered as the guitar-strumming likes of Ramona and Beezus Quim- history included subjects ranging wool-hatted, from Frederick Douglass to Venus member of the made-for-television by and Henry Huggins. March 25. rock band The Monkees. Dec. 10.

DMX, 50. The iconic hip-hop and Serena Williams. July 16.

Anne Rice, 80. The novelDusty Hill, 72. The long-bearded artist behind the songs “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Party Up (Up bassist for the Texas blues rock trio ist whose lush, best-selling gothic tales, including “Interview With in Here)” whose distinctively gruff ZZ Top. July 28.

Ron Popeil, 86. The quintes- the Vampire,” reinvented the voice and thoughtful messages in INDA TUCKER HATLEY, of sential TV pitchman and inven- blood-drinking immortals as traghis rhymes made him one of 69, rap’s Albemarle, passed biggest stars. April 9. away Monday, tor known to generations of view- ic antiheroes. Dec. 11.

April 2020.

Sally Ann Howes, 91. She was a Jim13,Steinman, 73. The Gram- ers for hawking products including Linda was born September my-winning composer who 18, wrote the Veg-O-Matic, the Pocket Fish- child actor before she later starred 1950 in Concord to the late Jacob and erman, Mr. Microphone and the in the 1968 film “Chitty Chitty Bang Meat Loaf’s best-selling “Bat Out Claris Tucker.

Shealbum was also Of Hell” debut aspreceded well as Showtime Rotisserie and BBQ. Bang” with Dick Van Dyke. Dec. 19. in death by her brother, Terry Lee Tucker, and her twin sister, Brenda Tucker Strickland. We know Brenda and Linda are in Heaven watching over us and laughing.

Linda was a loving mother, sister, and “Nana.” She was a very giving and loving person. Linda would always do anything she could for others, especially her family. She enjoyed working at FastShop #5, Locust. Linda will be forever loved and greatly missed.

Survivors include her son, Alan Hatley and wife, Angela, of Albemarle; brother, Ronnie Tucker and wife, Linda, of Midland; granddaughter, Leslie Hatley; 1 niece; and 2 nephews.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Thursday, April 16, 2020 at Hartsell Funeral Home in Albemarle. Linda will be laid to rest during a private committal service at Bethel United Methodist Church, Midland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Bethel UMC, 12700 Idlebrook Rd, Midland, NC 28107.

Final goodbyes

L

Shirley Haire

Merle Helms

Linda Hatley

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

Simple, Affordable, Convenient Available 24 Hours a Day

Southern Piedmont Cremation Services provides a basic cremation service for families who have experienced the loss of a loved one and do not desire a traditional funeral or farewell ceremony.

When your loved one passes simply call our office and our professional team will come as quickly as possible and bring your loved one into our care.

Phone: 704-985-4851

7

Fax: 704-550-5508

Email: care@spcremation.com

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

8

STATE & NATION

US population growth at lowest rate in pandemic’s 1st year

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press U.S. population growth dipped to its lowest rate since the nation’s founding during the first year of the pandemic as the coronavirus curtailed immigration, delayed pregnancies and killed hundreds of thousands of U.S. residents, according to figures released Tuesday.

The United States grew by only 0.1%, with an additional 392,665 added to the U.S. population from July 2020 to July 2021, bringing the nation’s count to 331.8 million people, according to population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The U.S. has been experiencing slow population growth for years but the pandemic exacerbated that trend. This past year was the first time since 1937 that the nation’s population grew by less than 1 million people.

“I was expecting low growth but nothing this low,” said William Frey, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution’s metropolitan policy program, Brookings Metro. “It tells us that this pandemic has had a huge impact on us in all kinds of ways, and now demography.”

Once there’s a handle on the pandemic, the U.S. may eventually see a decrease in deaths, but population growth likely won’t bounce back to what it has been in years past because of fewer births. That will increase the need for immigration by younger workers whose taxes can support programs such as Social Security, Frey said.

“We have an aging population and that means fewer women in child-bearing ages,” Frey said. “We see younger people putting off hav-

LM OTERO | AP PHOTO

Light afternoon traffic flows in downtown Dallas, Aug. 12, 2021. ing children and they’re going to have fewer children.”

The decision not to have children by young families may be driven by financial worries as much, if not more, than health concerns, said Linda Kahn, a professor at New York University and lead researcher in a study that showed that almost half of New York City mothers who had been trying to become pregnant before the pandemic began in the U.S. in March 2020 stopped in the first few months of the outbreak.

“COVID really was a stress test of our whole system,” Kahn said.

“Women were much harder hit in the pandemic. They lost their jobs

at greater rates and had to give up their jobs, often to do home-schooling. The pressures on women were enormous and there’s really no safety net in the U.S.” The population estimates are derived from calculating the number of births, deaths and migration in the U.S. For the first time, international migration surpassed natural increases that come from births outnumbering deaths. There was a net increase of nearly 245,000 residents from international migration but only about 148,000 from new births outnumbering deaths.

International migration dropped by about half from the previous year because of COVID-19 restric-

tions, such as borders being closed for nonessential travel and the closure of many consulates abroad where visas are issued. As recently as 2016, the U.S. had a net increase of more than 1 million international migrants.

In more than two dozen states, deaths outnumbered births. Deaths exceeded births in Florida by more than 45,000 people, but the state’s migration gain of more than 259,000 people, the nation’s highest.

University of New Hampshire demographer Kenneth Johnson described the decline in the United States’ natural population increase as “stunning,” saying it was

the smallest spread of births over deaths in more than 80 years.

“Of course most of this is COVID, but not all of it,” Johnson said. “U.S. natural increase was already at a low ebb prior to COVID with the fertility rate hitting a new record low each year and deaths steadily rising due to the population aging.”

Between 2020 and 2021, 33 states saw population increases, primarily through domestic migration, while 17 states and the District of Columbia lost population.

States in the Mountain West saw the biggest year-over-year growth rate, with Idaho growing by almost 3%, and Utah and Montana each seeing population increases of 1.7%.

The District of Columbia lost 2.9% of its population, while New York and Illinois lost 1.6% and 0.9% of their populations, respectively. In pure numbers, California had the greatest net population loss of any state from people leaving: almost 353,000.

While the pandemic gave some people the option of working remotely, data released last month by the Census Bureau shows there was no great migration in the U.S. because of it.

Some did take advantage of the opportunity, however. Tired of the heat, hurricane threats and traffic in Houston, tech worker Heidi Krueger moved to a small town south of Knoxville, Tennessee, in September. She can see the Great Smoky Mountains from her front porch.

“Because I was working from home during the pandemic, it made it feasible to move and still keep my same job,” Krueger said. “As long as I have internet, I can still connect to our clients.”

US probes potential of drivers playing video games in Teslas

By Tom Krisher The Associated Press Athens, Ohio — The U.S. has opened a formal investigation into the potential for Tesla drivers to play video games on a center touch screen while the vehicle is in motion.

In a document posted last week on its website, the agency says the feature, called “Passenger Play,” may distract the driver and increase the risk of a crash.

“To date, the agency has received one owner complaint describing the gameplay functionality and has confirmed that this capability has been available since December 2020 in Tesla “Passenger Play”-equipped vehicles,” a NHTSA spokesman said in an email. “Before this time, enabling gameplay was only possible when the vehicle was in park.”

The probe, which covers all four Tesla models, the S, X, Y and 3, was opened “to evaluate the driver distraction potential of Tesla ‘Passenger Play’ while the vehicle is being driven.” Investigators “will evaluate aspects of the feature, including the frequency and use scenarios of Tesla “Passenger Play.”’

The probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 580,000 electric cars and SUVs from model years 2017 through 2022.

The NHTSA documents do not list any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.

GILLIAN FLACCUS | AP PHOTO

Vince Patton, a new Tesla owner, demonstrates on Dec. 8, 2021, on a closed course in Portland, Ore., how he can play video games on the vehicle's console while driving.

An investigation can lead to a recall. A message was left early Wednesday seeking comment from Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations department.

Tesla owner Vince Patton, who lives near Portland, Oregon, filed the complaint with the agency last month. In August, he was watching a YouTube video of a Tesla owner who discovered that he could now play a video game on his touch-

screen while the vehicle is moving.

Curious to see for himself, Patton drove his own 2021 Tesla Model 3 to an empty community college parking lot, activated a game called “Sky Force Reloaded” from a menu and did a few loops.

“I was just dumbfounded that, yes, sure enough, this sophisticated video game came up,” said Patton, a 59-year-old retired broadcast journalist who lives near Portland, Or-

egon.

He tried Solitaire, too, and was able to activate that game while driving. Later, he found he could browse the internet while his car was moving.

Patton, who loves his car and says he has nothing against Tesla, worries that drivers will play games and become dangerously distracted.

“Somebody’s going to get killed,” he said. “It’s absolutely insane.”

So he filed the complaint early last month.

“NHTSA needs to prohibit all live video in the front seat and all live interactive web browsing while the car is in motion,” Patton wrote in his complaint. “Creating a dangerous distraction for the driver is recklessly negligent.”

Earlier in December, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for a similar issue caused by a computer configuration error, raising questions about whether Tesla was being allowed to do something that other automakers are not. Most automakers disable front touch screens while vehicles are moving.

In the Mercedes case, drivers could browse the internet or watch television while the cars were moving. The automaker said it intended to disable the features while the cars are in motion. The issue was corrected by updating a Mercedes server.

NHTSA already is investigating why Tesla’s “Autopilot” partially automated driving system keeps crashing into stopped emergency vehicles, and it has inquired about why Tesla didn’t file recall documents when it did an over-the-air internet update in an effort to address the safety problem. It’s also looking into the performance of Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software after getting a complaint that it nearly caused a crash.

Tesla says neither system can drive vehicles and that drivers must be ready to intervene at all times.

Need Ammo?

.223  .45  .40  .308  9mm NCammunition.com

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 14 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2021

Twin City Herald

JACOB KUPFERMAN | AP PHOTO

Panthers fall to Buccaneers Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule talks with quarterback Sam Darnold during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Charlotte.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Police: Man runs down brother-in-law after party fight Police in Georgia are looking for a man accused of using his truck to kill his brother-in-law after a Christmas party and a fight. Gwinnett County police say they don’t know what started the fight between 34-year old Ernesto Pelayo, of Lilburn, and his sister’s husband, 41-year-old Juan Davila, of Lawrenceville. Both men had gone to a Christmas party in Lawrenceville.

The fight began behind the house where the party was held and somehow wound up in the street.

Pelayo reportedly got into his truck, ran it into Davila and drove off. Davila died at a hospital. Pelayo is accused of felony murder and aggravated assault.

Business owner travels 1,000 miles for Christmas trees For Alabama resident Mandi Cameron, traveling 1,000 miles to buy Christmas trees isn’t crazy.

It’s just business. Cameron co-owns Pop’s Midtown with her husband Josh, a seasonal shop in midtown Mobile. It’s the second year Mandi has gone to the Buffalo Valley Produce Auction in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania, a business that dubs themselves as having the “Largest Christmas Tree Auction in the World.” They sell over the course of two days, but most people are there for one particular day, where more than 40,000 balled Christmas trees are sold.

Mississippi food truck to feed tornado victims on Christmas

2021 Notebook: Billionaires and the space race The Associated Press THE BACKGROUND: Captain Kirk — aka William Shatner — finally made it into space, part of the new wave of civilian travelers sponsored by names like Bezos, Musk and Branson who are slipping the surly bonds of Earth 10 years after NASA’s shuttle program ended. But there are big differences.

What does entrepreneurial space travel have in common with its more nation-focused counterpart, and what are the contrasts?

How are corporate space jaunts changing the face of the trip?

Here, one Associated Press journalist and expert involved in the coverage reflects on the story and her own experiences.

Marcia Dunn, AP aerospace writer since 1990: This year it was surreal to see ordinary people being escorted to the launch pad to blast into space.

I mean, I’ve seen the astronauts, the professionals, the cosmonauts — I’ve been to Baikonur to see the Russians launch people — but see-

20177 52016 $0.50

8

just like in the movies — certain candies that were taken up on some of these flights and readily identified. The champagne popping after the touchdown. The champagnes were identified. You’ve never seen NASA hawking products like that — even though I must say now they are becoming more and more open to this idea. So there’s that kind of thing.

There’s a lot more vulnerability in the way these private people are.

You know, they’re not pretending to be totally brave gladiators going off into the arena. They admit to their vulnerabilities. At the same time, however, access is sometimes limited. When NASA sends a crew up, generally we get to talk to them with interviews before and afterward. That is not always the case with private people.

Most famously, after the Bezos launch. I was one of dozens of reporters in a hangar waiting for a news conference after the flight, and almost the entire news conference was devoted to essentially the marketing, ticket sales woman for the company asking all the questions. I think there were only a couple of questions from reporters.

Dystopia, TikTok dances: We’re over you, 2021 The Associated Press NEW YORK — The pandemic, politics, pervasive anxiety over the climate and the economy. Did 2021 leave us any time to ponder anything else? As we limp our way into a new year, there are a few more things we’d like to leave behind, from pop culture’s obsession with all things apocalyptic to the well meaning but exhausting lay dancers on TikTok. A list of what we’re over as we look for renewal and hope in 2022: DYSTOPIA PALOOZA

5

ing ordinary people just go out to the launch pad, climb into a rocket and blast into orbit, that’s what happened at the Kennedy Space Center here. First time in the U.S. where paying customers blasted into orbit. And I have to say, yes, the guy leading the charge is a rich guy who paid for the entire flight, but he took three ordinary people with him. And that was — I was just standing here amazed, shaking my head seeing science fiction turn into science fact.

It was just remarkable to be on site when Jeff Bezos climbed aboard his own rocket to become the first person in the world to fly his own rocket and to take along his brother, right? And two others, the oldest and the youngest people in space. It’s just mind-boggling.

And I really think that the doors to space are finally being opened.

Right now. Yes, for those who can only afford it or who were lucky enough to be picked in a lottery or who maybe have the right connections. But this is the way forward, and it’s just really an exciting time to be covering the space program.

Yes, there are angles, I mean, product placement, for instance,

War, destruction, disaster: Popular entertainment has certainly ref lected, expanded upon and imagined the very doom of it all. But must it continue at

the same rapid clip? The latest, “Squid Game,” was a huge score for Netf lix. Its creator can’t imagine a future without a second season of the deadly Korean series. Fans rejoiced. Dystopia is merely one genre, however, one storytelling technique. Would we not benefit from an equally heavy dose of stories that focus on solutions and, dare we say it, inspiration? We’re talking that middle ground between zombies and “The Great British Baking Show.” Just think about it.

TIKTOK DANCEATHON You seem like a nice person, but you’re a registered dietitian, not a dancer. And, quite sadly, you never will be. Yes, we could scroll right on by and not gaze on your barely there moves. Yes, we realize you’re having a great

time and simply trying to entertain. But there are just so darn many of you. TikTok was built on wacky dance trends (remember the Floss?), but the short-video platform has grown into much, much more as millions signed on during the pandemic. So where does that leave all that dancing?

Slightly and thankfully muted for the dance-craze weary.

NFTS Will they be over before oh so many people have figured out exactly what they are? So some naysayers predict while stans fuel headlines and the little buggers sell for millions. Non-fungible tokens are, basically, digital art or just about anything else in digital form. They’re stored on blockchains (digital ledgers).

The point, you ask? Good ques-

I didn’t get a chance to even ask. So that’s the flip side because it is private. There is no need for anybody to talk to journalists unless they want to. You have to wonder even down the road, perhaps these companies won’t even be compelled to say who’s flying on board. It’s private information. Not necessarily having to be divulged.

Who wasn’t excited about Captain Kirk going into the into space at the age of 90, for goodness sakes? Just today, we had a Japanese billionaire who took his own personal assistant with him. They just rocketed into orbit and docked at the space station, just a few minutes ago. I think that the boundaries of who goes up from where are going to start to blur. ... And the goal, of course, is to go beyond low Earth orbit to get to the moon, to Mars. Elon Musk is not going to be happy until he’s got people on Mars. So, no, we’re not at the Jetsons. We may never be at the Jetsons where we all have our little spaceships and go from home to work like so many of the movies portray. But, man, I mean, who would have thought of this just 10 years after the end of the shuttle program? I drove into the Kennedy Space Center this morning, and one of the old bar and grills — sort of a greasy spoon kind of place for decades — was called Shuttles, right? They just changed hands.

And the big sign up in Shuttles is now “Galaxy.” So that’s now where we’re headed.

tion. NFTs are effectively digital certificates of authenticity, like the declaration in the physical world that your original van Gogh is one of a kind.

The rest of us will be heading to the non-digital gift shop for the poster or fridge magnet as the world figures out the metaverse.

On offer: The NFT of the Merriam-Webster definition of NFT, with net proceeds going to the global nonprofit Teach for All. Hallelujah.

LEVEL UP There’s a whole lotta leveling up going on in a world where level off and level out already reside.

And by level up, we’re talking the gamer term for making it to the next level. The phrase has gone mainstream in a range of contexts. The perfectly good and universally understood alternatives? How about advance, develop, improve, evolve, grow and, See COVID, page 2

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

2 WEDNESDAY

12.29.21 #170

“Join the conversation” Twin City Herald Publisher Neal Robbins

Editor Shawn Krest

Sports Editor Cory Lavalette

Senior Opinion Editor Frank Hill

Design Editor Lauren Rose Published each Wednesday as part of the North State Journal.

3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Raleigh, N.C. 27609 (704) 269-8461 INFO@TWINCITYHERALD.COM TWINCITYHERALD.COM

TO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 or online at nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Stanly County Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Albemarle, N.C. 28001.

COLUMN | JOYCE KRAWIEC

Straight talk: Sue ‘til Blue. Voters be Damned IT’S CAMPAIGN SEASON again, or is it? According to the laws of North Carolina, the election filing season began last Monday, December 6, at noon. Shortly before the noon start time, a Democrat majority 3 judge panel issued an order to stop all filings. Later that day, the full Court of Appeals reversed that ruling and reopened filings for Tuesday morning, December 7. Late Wednesday afternoon, The Democrat controlled Supreme Court, stopped filing again and delayed the primaries from March until May. The Supreme Court order was unsigned and no specific reasons were given. There’s no record, no trial, no signatures, no hearing and no legal or factual findings. This secret unnamed decision, didn’t cite any basis in law and didn’t criticize the newly drawn maps. The court simply stated that elections are blocked because the case is “important” and of “public interest.” I’m not a lawyer but I do have common sense. This is not a legal basis to suspend democratic elections.

The Supreme Court has rejected maps that were the most transparent in history without any legal reason. This is not the role of the court. The obligation of the court is to follow the law. In this case, the court doesn’t even pretend to be upholding any laws.

I served on the Redistricting Committee so I was a witness to the open and transparent process that took place during the map drawing. I, along with other Legislators, traveled around the state and held hearings on the process. All voices were heard and all recommendations were considered before the map drawing began.

We learned that Leftist organizations used these hearings as a training ground for advocates to testify at hearings. Two thirds of the speakers, during the hearings, were activists involved with left leaning organizations. Andy Jackson, director of Civitas Center for Election Integrity, said, “Those groups are seeking to get hearing records to bring a pubic record for lawsuits against any districts the General Assembly passes.”

Rules for the Legislative maps were adopted before the drawing began. The Committee recommended that populations of districts be proportional plus or minus 5% of the ideal district population.

Additional criteria adopted are that districts be contiguous as required by previous court cases. Lawmakers also required that districts be as compact as possible, that counties and municipalities remain whole except when required to meet population criteria. The Committee also considered no political partisan data and no racial data.

Legislators could only work on the maps in a room set up with computers for this purpose. They were in full view of the public and were live streamed for all the world to witness. There were no secrets and no maps were available to legislators outside of this specific room.

Lawsuits were filed before the maps were even drawn. Surprise,

Surprise. Regardless of how the maps looked, lawsuits have been “lying in wait” for months and would have been filed no matter how maps turned out as long as Republicans were the ones drawing them. There was no way to appease the plaintiffs in this case. In the last redistricting case, opposition complained that maps were racially gerrymandered claiming racial data was used. This time, the complaint is that “no racial data was used.” Go Figure.

Recent polling shows that citizens have lost confidence in the integrity of elections. That’s too bad. Nothing will discourage voters more than the belief that their vote doesn’t matter. The constant wailing about districts being unfair and voters being suppressed adds fuel to the fire.

The Governor also vetoed SB 326, Election Integrity Act this past week. This bill would require that election day is the end of the election. Democrats want to keep extending absentee voting and count ballots that are received after election day. This doesn’t help voter confidence either. The Legislature doesn’t have the votes to override vetoes. Without Democrat support, we can not change this outcome.

Another example of egregious behavior, by the court, regarding voting laws is the Voter ID Constitutional amendment. The people of this state voted overwhelmingly, in 2018, to amend the Constitution to require that voters show ID when voting. I was the primary sponsor of this legislation. The NAACP refused to accept the will of the people and sued.

Now the Democrat controlled Supreme Court has really gone bonkers. The Court is attempting a coup at the high Court. The Democrats on the court are attempting to forcibly remove the two newest Supreme Court justices, elected in 2020, who are Republicans from voting on the Voter ID case. This has never been done in history.

Completely unprecedented. The reason given is that Justice Phil Berger, Jr. is the son of Senate Leader, Phil Berger, and Justice Tamara Barringer was a Senator prior to taking the bench. The argument is absurd and has never been made in prior cases.

A liberal Democrat judge on the NC Supreme Court, really does have a conflict but there has been no attempt to ever remove her from any cases. She represented the NAACP in prior redistricting cases. She litigated extensively against the maps in prior hearings. Her removal is not sought because a liberal majority depends on her vote.

This overthrow of the will of the voters is atrocious. If this transpires, it will nullify the votes of 10 million voters who cast votes for a voter ID and for these two justices. It will reverberate far outside of North Carolina.

Joyce Krawiec has served in the North Carolina Senate from the 31st district since 2014.

MARK LENNIHAN | AP PHOTO

A sign for The New York Times hangs above the entrance to its building May 6, 2021, in New York.

Judge upholds ruling against NYT over Project Veritas memos The Associated Press NEW YORK — A New York judge has upheld an order preventing The New York Times from publishing documents between conservative group Project Veritas and its lawyer and ruled that the newspaper must immediately relinquish confidential legal memos it obtained.

The decision Thursday by State Supreme Court Justice Charles D. Wood in Westchester County, released Friday, comes in a defamation lawsuit Project Veritas filed against the Times in 2020.

Months after the lawsuit was filed, the newspaper reported that the U.S. Justice Department

was investigating Project Veritas in connection with the theft of a diary belonging to Ashley Biden, the president’s daughter. In that story, the Times quoted the memos, leading Project Veritas to accuse the newspaper of violating attorney-client privilege.

Wood upheld his earlier order preventing the Times from further publishing the memos, and also ruled that the newspaper must turn over physical copies of the documents and destroy electronic versions.

The newspaper reported it would appeal the ruling and seek a stay in the meantime. Publisher A.G. Sulzberger decried the ruling as an attack of press freedoms and alarming for “anyone

concerned about the dangers of government overreach inato what the public can and cannot know.” He also said it risked exposing sources.

“In defiance of law settled in the Pentagon Papers case, this judge has barred The Times from publishing information about a prominent and influential organization that was obtained legally in the ordinary course of reporting,” Sulzberger said in a statement reported by the Times that also asserted there was no precedent for Wood’s decision.

Project Veritas bills itself as a watchdog, often of media. It’s known for using hidden cameras and hiding identities to try to ensnare journalists in embarrass-

ing conversations and to reveal supposed liberal bias.

In a statement Friday, Project Veritas lawyer Elizabeth Locke hailed the ruling as “a victory for the First Amendment for all journalists and affirms the sanctity of the attorney-client relationship.”

“The New York Times has long forgotten the meaning of the journalism it claims to espouse, and has instead become a vehicle for the prosecution of a partisan political agenda,” Locke said.

“Today’s ruling affirms that the New York Times’ behavior was irregular and outside the boundaries of law.”

Wood also pushed back against the idea that the order endan-

gered press freedoms, writing in his ruling that “steadfast fidelity to, and vigilance in protecting First Amendment freedoms” can’t infringe on the fundamental rights of attorney-client privilege or privacy.

He wrote that while aspects of Project Veritas, including its journalistic methods, may be of public interest, its attorney-client communications are not.

News organizations, including The Associated Press, supported the Times and asked the court not to impose what they called an unconstitutional prior restraint on speech in a friend of the court brief filed last month by the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

SPORTS

3 SPONSORED BY

SIDELINE REPORT COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Pitt lands former USC QB Kedon Slovis Pittsburgh Kedon Slovis is trading USC for Pittsburgh. The former Trojans quarterback announced Dec. 21 he is heading east to join the ACC champion Panthers, where he will get a chance to replace ACC Player of the Year Kenny Pickett. Slovis entered his junior season at USC as a Heisman Trophy contender but struggled to find any rhythm. He passed for 2,153 yards with 11 touchdowns against eight interceptions in nine games before being lost for the season with a leg injury.

BASKETBALL

Ginobili, Chambers, Whalen among 1sttime hoop hall nominees Spring field, Mass.

Former San Antonio Spurs star Manu Ginobili, SuperSonics and Suns forward Tom Chambers and Olympic and WNBA champion Lindsay Whalen are among the first-time nominees for the Basketball Hall of Fame. Among the returning nominees announced Tuesday are 2004 NBA Finals MVP Chauncey Billups and former UConn and Detroit Shock star Swin Cash. More than 150 players, coaches and other contributors will be considered for induction in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame during the Sept. 9-10 enshrinement ceremonies.

The full Class of 2022 will be announced during the NCAA Final Four in New Orleans in April.

TENNIS

Raducanu named BBC sports personality of the year London U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was voted the BBC’s sports personality of the year Sunday to cap an incredible rise throughout 2021. The 19-year-old Raducanu became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam singles title with her triumph in New York in September after not dropping a set in the tournament. She was the first British woman since Virginia Wade in 1977 to win a major tournament, enabling her to beat Olympic gold medalists — diver Tom Daley and swimmer Adam Peaty — to the BBC honor.

OLYMPICS

South Korean Olympic champion suspended over text messages Seoul, South Korea Two-time Olympic shorttrack speed skating champion Shim Suk-hee has been suspended for two months over her text messages that authorities say “marred the dignity of athletes,” a decision that could bar her from attending the Beijing Winter Olympics. In October, Shim was cut from the team after a local media reported what it described as text messages exchanged between her and her coach that insulted two teammates and suggested she might have deliberately tripped one of them, Choi Min-jeong, during 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.

DAVID J. PHILLIP | AP PHOTO

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker holds up the Commissioner's Trophy after the Braves defeated the Houston Astros in Game 6 to win the 2021 World Series.

Veterans fill 2021 sports year with memorable moments The ageless Tom Brady, golf’s Lefty the Spider-Man of open-wheel racing led a cast of athletes who stayed on top

By John Marshall The Associated Press Not even Father Time could get one over on Tom Brady.

Cementing his argument as the NFL’s greatest quarterback, Brady switched teams and kept winning, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 31-9 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55.

Brady’s seventh Super Bowl title, at age 43 no less, was one of the best moments of 2021, when a continuing pandemic could not dim the brightest of stars of the

sports world.

“It’s hands down one of the greatest accomplishments in sports history,” said Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski, lured out of retirement by Brady to join him in Tampa Bay. Brady wasn’t the only veteran athlete to steal the spotlight in 2021, the year of the mature.

Phil Mickelson gave the silver-haired set a thrill, becoming the oldest major champion in golf history by winning the PGA Championship at 50. Lefty left some of the world’s best — and younger — golfers in his wake at Kiawah Island, winning his sixth major championship at an age when many players are looking to move up a tee box.

“There’s no reason why I or anybody else can’t do it at a later age,” Mickelson said. “It just takes

a little more work.”

The Milwaukee Bucks veered back on course behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, winning their first NBA title in 50 years by outlasting the surprising Phoenix Suns in six games. The Atlanta Braves exercised a few demons of their own, beating the Houston Astros in six games for their first World Series title since 1995.

The Tampa Bay Lightning won their second straight Stanley Cup title — this one outside the NHL’s playoff bubble.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were held a year late but, as always, produced some unforgettable moments.

Texas-born Italian sprinter Marcell Jacobs shocked the world by winning the men’s 100 meters, putting his unlikely name among the sport’s greats: Jesse Owens,

Carl Lewis, Usain Bolt.

Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah electrified the crowd by breaking Florence Griffith Joyner’s 33-year-old 100-meter record and had the second-fastest time ever to win the 200 meters.

American gymnast Simone Biles bowed out of four finals while battling “the twisties,” but overcame the mental block to take bronze in balance beam, regaining a piece of herself in the process. Sunisa Lee filled in nicely for the gymnast widely considered the greatest in history, becoming the fifth straight American woman to win the all-around title.

Helio Castroneves turned back the clock at 46, becoming the fourth four-time Indianapolis 500 champion by schooling one of the sport’s hottest young stars.

IndyCar’s “Spider-Man” passed 24-year-old Alex Palou with two laps remaining and the energy from the crowd pushed him to the finish line — and 16 feet up the fence at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in a familiar celebration.

MLB payrolls drop 4%, back to 2015 level Less pay for players led to the current work stoppage, the league’s first since 1994-95

The Associated Press NEW YORK — Major League Baseball payrolls dropped 4% in 2021 compared to the league’s last full season, and the $4.05 billion total was the lowest in a fully completed year since 2015.

Falling payrolls have sparked the labor unrest that led to the sport’s first work stoppage in more than a quarter-century this month, when the collective bargaining agreement expired and owners locked out the players Dec. 2.

Payrolls are down 4.6% from their record high of just under $4.25 billion in 2017, the first year of the just-expired CBA, according to information sent to clubs by the commissioner’s office and obtained by The Associated Press on Monday. Spending on big league players has not been this low since a $3.9 billion total in 2015.

The Los Angeles Dodgers led baseball with a $262 million pay-

roll in 2021, the second highest in major league history behind the franchise’s $291 million mark in 2015.

The Dodgers were hit with a $32.65 million luxury tax bill on Dec. 20 as the sport resumed penalizing big spenders after a one-season suspension of the tax due to the pandemic. San Diego was the only other club assessed a tax, charged $1.29 million after failing to make the playoffs with a roster led by Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Yu Darvish, Wil Myers and Eric Hosmer.

Five teams finished within $4 million of the $210 million threshold on payrolls as calculated for luxury tax purposes: Philadelphia ($209.4 million), the Yankees ($208.4 million), the Mets ($207.7 million), Boston ($207.6 million) and Houston ($206.6 million).

Raw payrolls and luxury tax payrolls are measured differently.

Payrolls include salaries, prorated shares of signing bonuses and other guaranteed income, and earned bonuses. In some cases, parts of salaries that are deferred are discounted to present-day value.

The luxury tax payroll is somewhat more forward looking because it is calculated off the av-

ASHLEY LANDIS | AP PHOTO

MLB’s labor strife, fueled in part of by a drop in salaries, is the first work stoppage in 26 years. erage annual values of contracts for 40-man roster players. It also includes about $15.5 million per team for benefits.

Payrolls rose steadily from $3 billion in 2011 to $4.07 billion in 2016, then reached a high in 2017 before receding slightly to $4.2 billion each in 2018 and ’19. Because of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting shortened season, salaries were paid at a 60/162 rate in 2020, dropping payrolls to $1.75 billion.

Players have proposed the luxury tax threshold be lifted to $245 million next year to spur spending. Owners have offered $214 million, a gulf that led to tense negotiations followed by a management lockout that started when the five-year labor contract ex-

pired Dec. 1. The work stoppage is baseball’s first since a 7½-month strike in 1994-95.

Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer was the highest-paid player at $38 million. He was placed on administrative leave July 2 under MLB’s domestic violence policy following an allegation of assault, which he has denied. Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout was second at $37 million, followed by Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole at $36 million.

The Dodgers paid tax each season from 2013-17, and their total bill has reached $182 million since the luxury tax began in 2003.

That’s second only to the New York Yankees’ $348 million bill.

World Series champion Atlanta was 14th at $148 million.

the bett ing to e stitution don’t kn now.”

The o for mil taking while a about t

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, December 29, 2021

4

STATE & NATION

US population growth at lowest rate in pandemic’s 1st year

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press U.S. population growth dipped to its lowest rate since the nation’s founding during the first year of the pandemic as the coronavirus curtailed immigration, delayed pregnancies and killed hundreds of thousands of U.S. residents, according to figures released Tuesday.

The United States grew by only 0.1%, with an additional 392,665 added to the U.S. population from July 2020 to July 2021, bringing the nation’s count to 331.8 million people, according to population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The U.S. has been experiencing slow population growth for years but the pandemic exacerbated that trend. This past year was the first time since 1937 that the nation’s population grew by less than 1 million people.

“I was expecting low growth but nothing this low,” said William Frey, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution’s metropolitan policy program, Brookings Metro. “It tells us that this pandemic has had a huge impact on us in all kinds of ways, and now demography.”

Once there’s a handle on the pandemic, the U.S. may eventually see a decrease in deaths, but population growth likely won’t bounce back to what it has been

in years past because of fewer births. That will increase the need for immigration by younger workers whose taxes can support programs such as Social Security, Frey said.

“We have an aging population and that means fewer women in child-bearing ages,” Frey said.

“We see younger people putting off having children and they’re going to have fewer children.”

The decision not to have children by young families may be driven by financial worries as much, if not more, than health concerns, said Linda Kahn, a professor at New York University and lead researcher in a study that showed that almost half of New York City mothers who had been trying to become pregnant before the pandemic began in the U.S. in March 2020 stopped in the first few months of the outbreak.

“COVID really was a stress test of our whole system,” Kahn said. “Women were much harder hit in the pandemic. They lost their jobs at greater rates and had to give up their jobs, often to do home-schooling. The pressures on women were enormous and there’s really no safety net in the U.S.” The population estimates are derived from calculating the number of births, deaths and migration in the U.S. For the first time, international migration surpassed natural increases that come from births outnumbering deaths.

LM OTERO | AP PHOTO

Light afternoon traffic flows in downtown Dallas, Aug. 12, 2021.

There was a net increase of nearly 245,000 residents from international migration but only about 148,000 from new births outnumbering deaths.

International migration dropped by about half from the previous year because of COVID-19 restrictions, such as borders being closed for nonessential travel and the closure of many consulates abroad where visas are issued. As recently as 2016, the U.S. had a net increase of more than 1 million international migrants.

In more than two dozen states, deaths outnumbered births.

Deaths exceeded births in Florida

by more than 45,000 people, but the state’s migration gain of more than 259,000 people, the nation’s highest.

University of New Hampshire demographer Kenneth Johnson described the decline in the United States’ natural population increase as “stunning,” saying it was the smallest spread of births over deaths in more than 80 years.

“Of course most of this is COVID, but not all of it,” Johnson said. “U.S. natural increase was already at a low ebb prior to COVID with the fertility rate hitting a new record low each year and deaths steadily rising due to the population aging.”

Between 2020 and 2021, 33 states saw population increases, primarily through domestic migration, while 17 states and the District of Columbia lost population.

States in the Mountain West saw the biggest year-over-year growth rate, with Idaho growing by almost 3%, and Utah and Montana each seeing population increases of 1.7%. The District of Columbia lost 2.9% of its population, while New York and Illinois lost 1.6% and 0.9% of their populations, respectively. In pure numbers, California had the greatest net population loss of any state from people leaving: almost 353,000.

While the pandemic gave some people the option of working remotely, data released last month by the Census Bureau shows there was no great migration in the U.S. because of it.

Some did take advantage of the opportunity, however. Tired of the heat, hurricane threats and traffic in Houston, tech worker Heidi Krueger moved to a small town south of Knoxville, Tennessee, in September. She can see the Great Smoky Mountains from her front porch.

“Because I was working from home during the pandemic, it made it feasible to move and still keep my same job,” Krueger said.

“As long as I have internet, I can still connect to our clients.”

US probes potential of drivers playing video games in Teslas

By Tom Krisher The Associated Press Athens, Ohio — The U.S. has opened a formal investigation into the potential for Tesla drivers to play video games on a center touch screen while the vehicle is in motion.

In a document posted last week on its website, the agency says the feature, called “Passenger Play,” may distract the driver and increase the risk of a crash.

“To date, the agency has received one owner complaint describing the gameplay functionality and has confirmed that this capability has been available since December 2020 in Tesla “Passenger Play”-equipped vehicles,” a NHTSA spokesman said in an email. “Before this time, enabling gameplay was only possible when the vehicle was in park.”

The probe, which covers all four Tesla models, the S, X, Y and 3, was opened “to evaluate the driver distraction potential of Tesla ‘Passenger Play’ while the vehicle is being driven.” Investigators “will evaluate aspects of the feature, including the frequency and use scenarios of Tesla “Passenger Play.”’

2021 from page 1 we venture, ameliorate. Can we just celebrate our work successes, our upgrades, our escalations, our impressive pushes onward without reinvention for reinvention’s sake? As Ciara sings: five, four, three, two, one ...

HARD SELTZERS

GILLIAN FLACCUS | AP PHOTO

Vince Patton, a new Tesla owner, demonstrates on Dec. 8, 2021, on a closed course in Portland, Ore., how he can play video games on the vehicle's console while driving.

The probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 580,000 electric cars and SUVs from model years 2017 through 2022.

The NHTSA documents do not list any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.

An investigation can lead to a recall. A message was left early Wednesday seeking comment

from Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations department.

Tesla owner Vince Patton, who lives near Portland, Oregon, filed the complaint with the agency last month. In August, he was watching a YouTube video of a Tesla owner who discovered that he could now play a video game on his touch-screen while the vehicle is moving.

What Zima started White Claw ran with. Now, we’ve got enough hard seltzers to make it straight on through to end of days. Just about any f lavor profile can be had in a bubbly, spiked concoction in a can. There was a pickle-f lavored variety until the marketing grab by two companies in collaboration sold out. No worries. You’ve still got your Bud

Lites, your Pabst Blue Ribbons, your Topo Chico. You’ve got your pineapple-limes, your honeydew and your apple-pear. You’ve got your tequila-based grapefruit, your ultra organic and your watermelon chili. Still unavailable, as spoofed on “Saturday Night Live”: the J.C. Penneys and Jiffy Lubes, Exxons and Verizons.

Can we take day drinking old

Curious to see for himself, Patton drove his own 2021 Tesla Model 3 to an empty community college parking lot, activated a game called “Sky Force Reloaded” from a menu and did a few loops.

“I was just dumbfounded that, yes, sure enough, this sophisticated video game came up,” said Patton, a 59-year-old retired broadcast journalist who lives near Portland, Oregon.

He tried Solitaire, too, and was able to activate that game while driving. Later, he found he could browse the internet while his car was moving.

Patton, who loves his car and says he has nothing against Tesla, worries that drivers will play games and become dangerously distracted.

“Somebody’s going to get killed,” he said. “It’s absolutely insane.”

So he filed the complaint early last month.

“NHTSA needs to prohibit all live video in the front seat and all live interactive web browsing while the car is in motion,” Patton wrote in his complaint. “Creating a dangerous distraction for the driver is recklessly negligent.”

school, pretty please?

SUPPLY CLOGS The global supply chain is under the weather. Factories have been forced to close amid COVD surges. The number of shipping containers is short and they’re unattainable to those who can’t afford them. Small businesses

Earlier in December, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for a similar issue caused by a computer configuration error, raising questions about whether Tesla was being allowed to do something that other automakers are not. Most automakers disable front touch screens while vehicles are moving.

In the Mercedes case, drivers could browse the internet or watch television while the cars were moving. The automaker said it intended to disable the features while the cars are in motion. The issue was corrected by updating a Mercedes server.

NHTSA already is investigating why Tesla’s “Autopilot” partially automated driving system keeps crashing into stopped emergency vehicles, and it has inquired about why Tesla didn’t file recall documents when it did an over-the-air internet update in an effort to address the safety problem. It’s also looking into the performance of Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software after getting a complaint that it nearly caused a crash.

Tesla says neither system can drive vehicles and that drivers must be ready to intervene at all times.

can’t pay for alternate shipping methods. Ports and warehouse are backed up. There aren’t enough truckers. Prices are on the rise as U.S. households feeling flush from stimulus checks, booming stock markets and fattened home equity have gone all spendy. Really spendy, with all of the above creating shortages of goods. Oh my. Happy holidays, one and all. Over It.

Need Ammo?

.223  .45  .40  .308  9mm NCammunition.com