North State Journal Vol. 7, Issue 9 by North State Journal

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 9

WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2022

Elon Musk buys Twitter Elon Musk added another well-known tech company to his holdings, buying Twitter for $44 billion on Monday. Describing himself as a “free speech absolutist,” he promises changes are ahead for the company. Read more on B5.

Early in-person voting begins Thursday Raleigh The early voting period for the 2022 statewide primary begins Thursday and ends at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 14. During early voting, voters may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county, and would-be voters may same-day register and vote. This is different than Election Day, where registered voters must vote at their assigned polling place. Voters can view the early voting locations in their county at www.ncsbe.gov. The election is Tuesday, May 17. NSJ STAFF

Federal judge issues temporary order blocking end of Title 42 Washington, D.C. A federal judge granted a temporary restraining order on Monday blocking the Biden administration from lifting Title 42, a public health order that allows the federal government to quickly expel migrants, until it officially expires next month. The Centers for Disease Control announced it would terminate Title 42 on May 23, saying that the order “suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary” due to “an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19.” The lawsuit was originally filed by Missouri, Louisiana, and Arizona in the U.S. District Court in Louisiana. Several other states have since joined the lawsuit, Fox News reported. NSJ STAFF

Virginia wind farm job claims questioned by state regulators Richmond, Va. As Virginia-based Dominion Energy seeks to build what it calls the country’s largest offshore wind farm in the Atlantic Ocean, the company and its supporters have touted the economic development opportunities expected to accompany the 176-turbine project. But state regulators say the economic picture might not be so rosy. In testimony filed earlier this month, regulators said the company relied on a “stale” economic study that didn’t account for the impact of its Virginia ratepayers bearing the cost of the approximately $10 billion project. The State Corporation Commission found that because of increased electric rates, the project was expected to come with an economic cost that might negate any benefits. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

US commission: Cite Afghanistan for religious persecution Washington, D.C. Afghanistan should join a list of the “worst of the worst” violators of religious freedom in the wake of the Taliban’s return to power, a U.S. advisory body is recommending to the State Department. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, in its annual report says religious minorities have “faced harassment, detention and even death due to their faith or beliefs” since the Taliban reimposed its harsh interpretation of Sunni Islam. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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Following the money behind North Carolina’s absentee ballot portal Grants offered by Democrat-tied group would have covered “80-90%” of the portal cost

Border security, immigration dominate NC 13th Congressional GOP candidate forum Four of the eight Republican candidates attended By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Republican candidates running in the state’s 13th Congressional District race faced off at a forum held in a Raleigh suburb on April 25. The eight Republicans running for the seat are Devan Barbour, Kelly Daughtry, Renee Ellmers, Bo Hines, Kent Keirsey, Jessica Morel, Chad Slotta and Kevin Wolff. All eight candidates vying for the seat were invited to a forum hosted by the Western Wake Republican Club but only four confirmed their attendance and actually showed up; Barbour, Ellmers, Slotta and Wolff. While Daughtry, Hines, Keirsey and Morel were no-shows, Daughtry sent a representative who made a brief statement on her behalf. “I am the grassroots,” Barbour said in his opening remarks before going on to list his involvement in various aspects of the NC Republican Party. “I’ve been involved in North Carolina Republican politics and campaigns for 20 years.” Slotta opened with a story about his daughter being the only student to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and said that “I am running for Congress to stand with her and to stand for my children’s future and the future of every American in what I feel is a battle for the soul of our country.” Former U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers noted her six years of experience on Capitol Hill (2011-2017) in her opening remarks and that she was “the first woman in congress to endorse Donald Trump when he was running for president.” “I’ve been a lifelong Republican – a Reagan Republican from the beginning when I started voting,” said Wolff. “And I’ll never forget that man and I vow to uphold his principles.” Wolff noted he was the first to attend college in his family and holds three degrees; electrical engineering, an MBA in finance,

and a law degree. Former state lawmaker Tom Murry moderated the event, posing questions on topics such as immigration, border security, the economy, education, voter ID, and the Second Amendment. There was little deviation in positions on the major topics discussed among the candidates, with all four candidates present strongly backing protection of the Second Amendment, better border security policies and for resuming construction of a wall at the southern border. In one way or another, all four supported the need for voter ID but opinions varied on federalizing the topic. Ellmers and Wolff both hit the courts for interfering with the voter ID amendment added to the North Carolina constitution by the voters of state. Murray asked Ellmers a specific question on how she would do to ensure families were not separated from patients and the elderly from their families as was seen during the pandemic. “We absolutely need policy whether it’s COVID or long-term care for our seniors,” Ellmers said, adding that she had heard heartbreaking stories of individuals dying alone. She went on to say we need policies that let families “sit at the bedside and be with those individuals.” On Education, both Slotta and Barbour came out in strong favor of parental rights and against questionable ideological topics being inserted into K-12 subjects. “Let me tell you something, you can teach my first grader about gender fluidity as soon as I can teach your first grader about Jesus,” Barbour said about a question he was asked by the Washington Post about the role of the federal government in education. “Until we have that level playing field, we have nothing to talk about.” Slotta, who has spoken out about indoctrination issues and inappropriate books multiple times in front of the Wake County School Board, took aim at proSee GOP FORUM, page A2

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A previous report by North State Journal uncovered that the North Carolina’s current absentee ballot portal had been a topic of discussion well before the pandemic hit in March 2020. That report also detailed security issues with the

portal, powered by Democracy Live, as well as an outside money funding offer to cover the cost. Tusk Philanthropies was the source of the grants offered to election officials in North Carolina by Democracy Live to implement absentee ballot portals using their products. The N.C. State Board of Elections (NCSBE) has indicated they did not ask for nor receive any grant money from Tusk. North State Journal learned of the Tusk Philanthropies grant as See BALLOT, page A2

Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools fires superintendent Winston’s amended contract has a severance payout of two years’ full salary totaling $576,000 By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — On April 19, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ (CMS) board of education voted to fire Superintendent Earnest Winston. The vote was 7-2 and the district also released his personnel records. Reasons brought up for terminating him included issues with low evaluation scores, sexual assault reports at Hawthorne Academy of Health Sciences, student performance issues, and the controversial $25,000 Critical Race Theory event by Ibram X. Kendi which the district implied Earnest had ‘obstructed’ initial requests for release of the video. One of the ongoing issues in the district not listed in the board’s documentation are the over 20 guns which have been found on various campuses as well as student-involved fights. Until the board finds a replacement, Hugh Hattabaugh will lead the district. He’s a former administrator and reportedly signed a 14-month contract. The documents released by the board cite the two-year contract with Winston in August of 2019. The documents say Winston received “good performance ratings at part of his 2019-2020 evaluation,” and Winston’s contract being amended in February 2021 that included an extension through June 30, 2025. As part of the amended contract, a provision was included allowing the board to terminate Winston’s contract “for conve-

nience.” State law only allows termination of a superintendent for cause if they consistently fail to perform the duties imposed on him by state law or the Board, or for allegations of immoral or disreputable conduct. The amended contract provision included a severance “in an amount equal to the Superintendent’s base salary for a period of 24 months or through the remaining contract term, whichever is less.” See SCHOOLS, page A3

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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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 Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday by North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 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 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

BALLOTS from page A1 part of a records request containing emails sent in 2019 between Democracy Live and the NCSBE that mentioned a Tusk Philanthropies “Modernizing Democracy Grant Program.” Tusk Philanthropies, formed in 2017, is one of several properties housed under Tusk Ventures, a New York-based venture capital firm. Other offshoots include Tusk Strategies, Tusk Digital, Tusk Ventures, and Tusk Holdings. The man behind the Tusk properties is Democratic political strategist Bradley Tusk, who was the acting campaign manager for Michael Bloomberg’s successful 2009 mayoral re-election bid. He had also served as communications director for U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and was named Deputy Gov. of Illinois in 2003 by then-Governor Rod Blagojevich, who later would be impeached and convicted on federal corruption charges. Tusk Philanthropies has two primary campaigns it pours money into; “mobile voting” and “anti-hunger.” Bradley Tusk himself appears to lead the mobile voting team and on the Mobile Voting Project website Tusk is quoted as saying “The 20 mobile voting pilots we’ve completed to date have shown that mobile voting is not only possible, but a preferred method of voting.” At the time Democracy Live was contacting states to use their ballot portal, Sheila Nix was the President of Tusk Philanthropies. Nix’s profile was removed from the Tusk Ventures site sometime after December of 2020. The removed profile stated Nix was “most recently” the Chief of Staff to Jill Biden and previously “served as a Deputy Assistant to President Obama, was Chief of Staff to Vice President Biden on the 2016 re-election campaign.” On Jan. 21, 2021, Nix was ap-

THE WORD: LIVING SACRIFICES “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1 The godly life is not one of ease, pleasure and selfindulgence. We are taught to present our bodies, as a living sacrifice unto God. Ancient offerings were brought to the altar, and presented dead. But the Christian sacrifice, instead of being poured out in a bloody oblation, is to be a living sacrifice of service, of love, of devotion. The great sacrifice of Christ is both the model for all Christian life, and also its inspiration. We look at His six hours on the cross — as if that were its only act and expression. But the cross was not endured by Christ merely during those six hours on Calvary; it was in all His life, in every day and hour of it. Everything He did was in love, and love is always a living sacrifice. He was always sacrificing Himself. On Calvary, He only wrote the word out in capitals. The cross stands not merely for the sufferings of Christ endured in redeeming sinners — but also for the law of love and of sacrifice in every department of Christian living. It is not enough to have the cross on our churches, as a symbol of redemption; or to wear it as an ornament around our neck; the cross must be in the heart — and manifested in the life. We talk a great deal about the love of Christ — but we must strive to illustrate it and reproduce in our own lives, in our own measure — the sweetness, the charity, the kindness and the helpfulness of Jesus Christ. The cross is everywhere. The more of the “sacrificial” quality we get into our life — the diviner and the lovelier our life will be. We do not have to be crucified on pieces of wood — to bear a cross, and make a living sacrifice. The cross must be in the lives of those who follow Christ; not branded on their bodies — but wrought into their character, their disposition, their conduct, their spirit. We cannot live a Christian life for a day, without coming to points of sacrifice. The cross of Christ does not take our own cross from us — Christ does not bear our cross for us. His cross becomes the law of our life, and makes it all sacrificial. Every sacrificial thing we do, reveals the cross. The Beatitudes are all sacrificial. No one can live the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians, and not crucify self continually. All sacrifice at length, blossoms into Christlike beauty, sweetness and joy. “Take me, Lord, and use me today — as You will. I lay all my plans at Your feet. Whatever work You have for me to do — give

pointed by the Biden administration as Chief of Staff for the U.S. Department of Education despite having no apparent education-related background. Also of relevant interest is that Nix is married to James (Jim) Coughlan, a partner at the Perkins Coie legal firm which has been the subject of national headlines as a result of Special Council John Durham’s ongoing investigation into the 2020 election and Russia-gate hoax. Another former Perkins Coie partner, Marc Elias, is a wellknown name in North Carolina. Elias left the firm in August of 2021. A few months later, Elias’ colleague at both at Perkins Coie and on the Hillary Clinton campaign, Michael Sussman, was indicted by Durham and it was also learned that in January of 2022, Elias had testified in front of a Grand Jury related to Sussman’s activities. Upon departing Perkins Coie, Elias formed an elections-centered law firm of his own called “Democracy Docket, LLC.” Elias used this firm to sue North Carolina and multiple states leading up to the 2020 Election. Those states include Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Montana, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, New Hampshire, North Carolina and Georgia. North State Journal asked if NCSBE Executive Director Karen Brinson Bell had any contact or meetings with employees of Tusk Philanthropies and was told that “Karen Brinson Bell has no record of meeting with them, nor does she recall doing so.” However, emails obtained through records requests demonstrated otherwise. Included was a March 27, 2020, email from Tusk Strategies’ Aileen Kim to Brinson Bell titled, “The Case for Mobile Voting.pdf; MV

According to vendor records provided by the N.C. State Board of Elections, Democracy Live was paid a total of $423,950 in 2020. and Coronavirus.pdf.” The email shows Kim was writing to Brinson Bell “on behalf of Sheila Nix,” and Nix was copied on the email. Another of the emails, titled, “Tusk Philanthropies Grant - Online Ballot Delivery Pilot Project,” was sent to Brinson Bell by a man named Hugh Gallagher, residing in Glen Allen, Virginia. The email Gallagher used was not an official Tusk group or Democracy Live email address, but rather a personal Gmail address. The content of the email was an offer to discuss the Tusk Philanthropies grant with Brinson Bell. It is unclear how Gallagher is tied to Tusk or Democracy Live, why he used a personal Gmail account to contact the NCSBE, or how he entered the conversations surrounding North Carolina’s absentee ballot portal, however, it appears he founded and runs an elections and voting systems related company called Scytl USA, LLC, which is based in the same town as the address Gallagher listed in his email. Tusk Philanthropies has yet to respond to repeated requests for comment. Emails obtained by North State Journal show conversations between NCSBE staffer Veronica Degraffenreid, Bell and Democracy Live’s Brian Finney beginning in June of 2019. Some of the emails addressed a grant opportunity and others centered on a “UOCAVA and

GOP FORUM from page A1

A.P. DILLON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Congressional candidates from left DeVan Barbour, Chad Slotta, Renee Ellmers, and Kevin Wolff attend a forum at the Western Wake Republican Club in Cary.

gressives. “Here is what we see in the progressive left today. We see folks who think they know better than us how to spend our money, better than us how to educate and raise our children, better than us on what we put in and on our bodies,” said Slotta. “And I, like you, have had enough.” In both his opening and closing statements, Barbour thanked the audience for being there and in his closing, he took a shot at the candidates who were absent. “I appreciate that you showed up and I hope you appreciate that we showed up,” Barbour said gesturing to the other candidates. In terms of fundraising, Daughtry and Democrat Wiley Nickel are the only two to break the million-dollar mark. Republicans Hines, Keirsey, and Slotta all followed with six-figure receipts and cash on hand – although most of their funding came from them-

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“Crucifixion of St. Peter” by Caravaggio (1600) is an oil painting in the Chapel of the Assumption, Rome.

it into my hands. If there are those You would have me help in any way — send them to me, or send me to them. Take my time — and use it just as You will.” J.R. Miller was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain.

accessible absentee solution.” UOCAVA stands for Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. In a Sept. 10, 2019, email to Degraffenreid, Finney first mentions “new grant funding” for modernizing and securing UOCAVA. Degraffenreid responds the same day asking him to send an estimate. In a Sept. 18, 2019, email reply, Finney identified that the grant would be coming from the Tusk Foundation and that the grant could “fund 80-90% of the cost.” Degraffenreid declined a conversation with Tusk at that time and asked for a quote for using Democracy Live’s services. Finney would later respond to the NCSBE by providing a quote for services. “In order for us to give you a quote, do you know if the State has access to all the ballots/ballot data from the counties?” Finney asked Degraffenreid. “This impacts costs due to whether we need to work with all the counties, or just the State to upload the ballot data.” Degraffenreid replied, “We do have all of the ballot data and ballot images. The services we would be interested in is having a secure portal for the following tasks: CBE uploads voter’s ballot (pdf image), Voter accesses secure portal to retrieve ballot (ballot and materials must be printed), and Voter accesses secure portal to upload voted ballot and balloting materials.” Finney later responded with answers to her questions with baseline pricing of a $79,000 one-time fee and a $59,000 per year annual license fee. According to vendor records provided by the NCSBE, Democracy Live was paid a total of $423,950 in 2020 by the NCSBE for its services. Based on Finney’s estimate that the Tusk grant would cover 80 to 90% of the costs, had the NCSBE taken the Tusk grant, the amount

the state would have received in that grant could have been up to or over $339,160. Finney emailed Degraffenreid again on Sept. 25, 2019, asking if her team wants a demo and that he may be traveling to Raleigh and that he has an “Amazon colleague.” None of the emails North State Journal received indicate whether or not that meeting ever took place. On Oct. 2, 2019, Degraffenreid emailed Finney back and asked “Do you have information that only speaks to the ballot transmittal and ballot delivery portal? Again, we are only interested in a means for a voter to receive a pdf of a UOCAVA ballot and a way for the voter to securely return their ballot that has been hand-marked.” Finney responded that Omniballot has been deployed in over “1,000 elections,” and included a presentation on “OmniBallot Secure Balloting Portal.” In his reply, Finney also stated that Democracy Live’s OmniBallot system has “never had any successful attacks or penetration.” Finney checked back on Oct. 18, 2019, but there is no response from Degraffenreid. He emailed Degraffenreid again on Oct. 17, 2019, asking if her team has discussed updating the UOCACA system, but this time mentioning “$250M” coming out of “Capitol Hill” to modernize voting systems. “That funding can be used to immediately secure and modernize ballot delivery systems. In the past, we upgraded other states to our secure ballot portal, contingent on funding. Is this something you would like to discuss?” Finney asked. It is unclear from the email exchange what entity is the source of the “$250M” mentioned by Finney, but election-related issues and work would later be supported by federal COVID relief funding in 2020.

selves. Democratic candidates in the race include Nickel, Jamie Campbell Bowles, Nathan Click, Denton Lee, and former State Sen. Sam Searcy, who resigned his seat just over a month after the 2020 election. Searcy endorsed former State Rep. Sydney Batch as a replacement and she took over his seat following her loss to Republican Erin Paré. Daughtry leads all candidates in fundraising so far with over $2.4 million and cash on hand of over $1.163 million as of Mar. 31, 2022. However, most of that is self-funding, as she made loans to her campaign last December totaling almost $2.2 million. Nickel raised over $1.37 million and has just over $1 million on hand in the same filing period. Filings show that $900,000 of Nickel’s raised total is a loan to the campaign. Part of Hines’ nearly $1 million total includes a loan of more than $525,000 by the candidate

and similarly, Keirsey made a $200,000 loan and Slotta made a $335,000 loan. Barbour has not put any personal money into the campaign as of March 31, but raised nearly $250,000 from individuals. Ellmers’ latest filing puts her near last place for fundraising with about $20,000 in receipts, only $14,732 cash on hand, and an outstanding debt/loan to her campaign committee of $2,500. The newly redrawn 13th district, now considered to be the most competitive in the state, covers all of Johnston County, parts of Harnett and Wayne counties, as well as the southern portion of Wake County. According to the often-cited opinion poll analysis group FiveThirtyEight, the redistricting changes took the district from a +38 Republican lean down to a +3 lean. The conservative-leaning Civitas Institute’s Partisan Index has the district at a +1 Democratic lean.

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Retiring US Rep. Butterfield backs Davis as his successor The Associated Press RALEIGH — U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield endorsed Don Davis on Monday to become his successor, giving the current state senator his seal of approval as next month’s Democratic primary for a northeastern North Carolina district approaches. Butterfield, a former state Supreme Court justice who has held the 1st Congressional District seat since 2004, announced in November that he would not seek reelection. A dozen people, including four Democrats, have filed candidacy papers for the seat. Davis is a former Snow Hill mayor and ex-Air Force officer who first joined the state Senate in 2009. “Having served in Congress for 18 years, I know what the people of the 1st District expect from their representative,” Butterfield said in a news release from Davis’ campaign. “Don has the legislative experience and is prepared to fight for the Democratic agenda of empowering America’s families and communities.” The May 17 Democratic primary has largely been a competition between Davis and former state Sen. Erica Smith of Northampton County, who ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate Democratic nomination in 2020. She also

ran for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican Richard Burr last year until switching to a House campaign in November. Smith has portrayed herself as aligned with the Democratic Party’s liberal wing — in part by highlighting a recent endorsement by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. Davis’ politics have been considered more moderate, particularly in supporting at times state budgets and other legislation approved by the Republican-controlled state Senate. Smith put out a news release Monday congratulating Davis on the endorsement but added: “We have elections, not coronations, for a reason.” Smith promoted her other endorsements, including from the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. Davis “is out of touch with the Democratic Party and has a record that ought to be entirely disqualifying,” Smith campaign manager Morris Katz said in her release. In an endorsement announcement separate from Davis’ news release, Butterfield cited Davis’ other endorsements and his record of service. “He believes in getting legislation passed to uplift families and communities that have been left behind,” Butterfield wrote. “He knows when to fight and when to

compromise.” Jason Spriggs and Julian Bishop Sr. also are seeking the May 17 Democratic nomination. The district covers most of Pitt County — the most populous county in the district — and all of 18 other counties. It’s considered a Democratic-leaning area, according to results of statewide elections in 2016 and 2020. Butterfield said the 1st District is now essentially a toss-up district. Several counties in the district have black majority populations. Butterfield and all of the Democratic candidates are black. Butterfield previously chaired the Congressional Black Caucus while on Capitol Hill. He often won his congressional reelection bids by comfortable margins, although in 2020, he defeated Republican nominee Sandy Smith by less than 9 percentage points. Smith is running in the GOP primary this year, too. Butterfield said the goal is to “produce the strongest Democratic candidate who can defeat the well-funded, right-wing, Trump aligned Republican nominee.” Butterfield is one of about 30 House Democrats who are not seeking reelection this year, including North Carolina Rep. David Price. Republicans are aiming to retake control of the chamber for the first time since 2018.

GERRY BROOME | AP PHOTO, FILE

State Sen. Don Davis, D-Greene, takes the oath of office in the Senate chamber as lawmakers gather for the start of the 2017 Legislative session at the North Carolina General Assembly in Raleigh.

SCHOOLS from page A1 “Because the severance payment associated with the termination for convenience is a large sum, the Board finds it necessary to release the Superintendent’s 20202021 performance evaluation and the investigation report prepared by the independent investigator (both of which are attached) to explain the reason why public funds are being used for this purpose,” according to the documents released by the board. The large severance sum referred to by the CMS board is a total amount of around $576,000 which is equal to two years’ salary or $24,000 per month for the next two years. Other concerns in the documents released by the board included the process and time it took to hire a Chief Operating Officer and a Chief Technology Officer, despite advance knowledge by Winston of the openings and the slow implementation of safety measures in schools like safety

“It has been my honor to lead CharlotteMecklenburg Schools the past two and a half years.” Former CMS Superintendent Earnest Winston wands and clear backpacks. Additionally, there were “questions in judgment related to media statements about Title IX issues,” and a specific mention of a public press conference announcing, “significant changes in the way Title IX investigations are handled.” Also among the complaints was that Winston “has alienated many of his senior level officials” and that he had “delayed the implementation of key decisions.” Winston issued a short statement following the vote that in part praised the “resilience” of the students and staff in the district.

“It has been my honor to lead Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) the past two and a half years,” wrote Winston. “When the Board of Education asked me to serve as superintendent of CMS in July of 2019, I considered it the ultimate call to service. I accepted the call and made it my commitment to prioritize students and their needs above all else in every decision that I would make.” The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Association of Educators (CMAE) pushed back on the firing. “We are troubled by the CMS Board of Education’s decision to fire Superintendent Winston without cause,” the CMAE said in a statement. “Earnest Winston led us through some of this district’s greatest challenges; from keeping our kids and educators safe through the pandemic to stepping up and leaning in when our community demanded a reckoning on systemic racism,” wrote the CMAE. “Superintendent Winston has been a transparent, cooperative leader through it all.”

AP PHOTO

A young student participates in a remote learning class in this undated file photo.

AP PHOTO, FILE

Boxes of KN95 protective masks are stacked together before being distributed to students

CDC estimates 3 in 4 children have had coronavirus infections The Associated Press NEW YORK — Three out of every four U.S. children have been infected with the coronavirus, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention researchers estimated in a report Tuesday. The researchers examined blood samples from more than 200,000 Americans and looked for virus-fighting antibodies made from infections, not vaccines. They found that signs of past infection rose dramatically between December and February, when the more contagious omicron variant surged through the U.S. The most striking increase was in children. The percentage of those 17 and under with antibodies rose from about 45% in December to about 75% in February. For Americans of all ages, about 34% had signs of prior infection in December. Just two months later, 58% did. “I did expect it to increase. I did not expect it to increase quite this much,” said Dr. Kristie Clarke, co-leader of a CDC team that tracks the extent of coronavirus infections. The older people were, the less likely they had evidence of

past infections, the study found. For those 65 and older, 19% had signs of prior infection in December and 33% did in February. That may be because older adults have higher vaccination rates and they may be more likely to take other COVID-19 precautions, such as wearing masks and avoiding crowds, Clarke said. Clarke said the tests can detect antibodies for one to two years after infection, and possibly longer. Studies have shown previous infection can protect some people against severe disease and hospitalization, but CDC officials stressed that the previously infected should still get COVID-19 vaccines. The study looked for any detectable level of antibodies; it did not distinguish how many people had antibody levels that might be protective. Scientists are still trying to understand what role these kinds of antibodies play in protection from future virus exposures. Officials continue to urge Americans to get vaccines and boosters, which offer additional protection against COVID-19 for all, including those who were previously infected.

Pushback follows announcement of afterschool Satan Club at a Guilford elementary By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — An announcement on Facebook by the Friends of the Satanic Temple of NC regarding a so-called afterschool Satan Club to be held at a Guilford County Public Schools elementary went viral and received public pushback. The Facebook post included the statement “Hail Satan, Hail ASSC, Hail NC, and Hail Yourselves!” it also included an announcement from the group’s Director June Everett that reads “Exciting News! After School Satan Club will be launching at Joyner Elementary School in Greensboro, North Carolina on April 29th 2022!” Comments on the post included some praise but main themes included multiple comments saying “What the hell” and calling the club “sick.” Some comments drew attention to the group’s other activities like a “menstrual supplies” drive called “Menstruatin’ with Satan,” as well as promotion of LGBT events such as the “Trans Day of Visibility.” “God save these children,” wrote one commenter, to which the page administrator replied, “Save them from what? Arts and crafts and educational activities?” The event posting included a link to a flier that described the club as engaging in “science projects, puzzles and games, craft projects, and nature activities.” The flier includes a student permission slip and claims that the Satanic Temple is a “non-theistic religion that views Satan as a mythical figure representing individual freedom.” The flier also claims the club does not try to

convert children to any religious ideology, but to “teach children to think for themselves.” North State Journal reached out to Guilford County Schools and the district’s Chief of Staff Dr. Rebecca Kaye said that “The request for use of facility is not approved at this time.” “GCS is currently reviewing with its legal counsel how fliers for non-school sponsored clubs and events are distributed, as well as the district’s obligation to grant organizations equitable access to our public facilities,” Kaye wrote in an email response. Another Facebook post by Friends of the Satanic Temple of NC compared their event to an event by a Christian group called “Good News Club” which was rejected by the district. The North Carolina branch of the Satanic Temple admitted in a separate Facebook post that they target locations where “Good News Club” has been permitted to operate. The attempt to hold and Afterschool Satan Club in a Guilford County elementary schools seems to be part of a nationwide campaign by the Satanic Temple, but the effort has been going on for almost eight years, according to 2016 reports by the Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times. Earlier this year, a school district in Illinois defended allowing an Afterschool Satan Club to be held at Jane Addams Elementary School in Moline. This past month, the Satanic Temple filed a lawsuit on constitutional grounds against Northern Elementary School in York, Pennsylvania, after the school board there voted 8-1 not to allow the club to hold meetings at the school.

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Murphy to Manteo

The billion-dollar impact of North Carolina Commu NC Community Colleges Colleges are a hidden g A comprehensive study of North Carolina’s 58 Community Colleges shows how each delivers value from multiple perspectives. The colleges benefit state businesses by increasing consumer spending in the state and supplying a steady flow of qualified, trained workers to the workforce. North Carolina Community Colleges enrich the lives of students by raising their lifetime earnings and helping them achieve their individual potential, the study said. The colleges benefit state and local taxpayers through increased tax receipts and a reduced demand for governmentsupported social services.

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Buncombe County A smarter-than-average bear took a tourist jaunt through downtown Asheville _ even taking care to use crosswalks at intersections _ before police guided it back to nature. Asheville Police say the call they received Thursday about a bear milling through downtown is the third such call in the last three weeks. Video posted by police on their Facebook page Friday shows the bear waiting at a crosswalk and looking both ways before crossing the intersection. In another clip he climbs a tree in a small park space. Officers guided the bear back into a wooded area. AP

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Lincoln County Richard Clay Martin, 47, was arrested and charged with a felony count of attempt to obtain property by false pretenses and two felony possession of stolen goods charges after he tried to steal more than $90,000 worth of construction equipment. Martin allegedly stole two Bobcat skid steers and a travel trailer. The skids was taken from Blythe Construction and the trailer from Optimum RV. Martin turned himself in to police.

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Hiker rescued on Appalachian Trail Graham County Rescuers reached a hiker stranded on the Appalachian Trail on Friday morning after they had a medical emergency in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 74-year-old from Alabama suffered severe chest pains while hiking near Fontana Lake. Rescuers brought the victim to a location that could be reached by helicopter. He was then flown to a hospital in Asheville. WSPA

Officials: Mark Meadows was registered to vote in 3 states

Macon County Former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows was reportedly registered to vote simultaneously in three states. South Carolina officials said the former congressman and his wife registered to vote there earlier this year. Macon County removed Meadows from their lists this month after learning he’d voted in Virginia last year. The South Carolina registration was first reported by The Washington Post, which said Meadows’ Virginia registration is still active. South Carolina election officials said applicants are supposed to say they’re registered elsewhere, but it’s up to states to remove someone once that voter registers in a new state.

WSOC

Lawmakers criticize Gov. Roy Cooper for “negligence” and “mishandling” of relief funds

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

45. Wayne Community College 46. Wilson Community College 47. Nash Community College 48. Halifax Community College 49. Edgecombe Community College 50. Lenoir Community College 51. Pitt Community College 37. Wake Technical Community College 52. Coastal Carolina Community College 53. Craven Community College 39. Vance-Granville Community College 54. Martin Community College e 55. Roanoke-Chowan Community College 40. Johnston Community College 56. Beaufort County Community College 41. Sampson Community College 57. Pamlico Community College 42. Brunswick Community College 58. Carteret Community College 43. Cape Fear Community College 59. College of the Albemarle 44. James Sprunt Community College

Mom, boyfriend charged in children’s deaths

Cumberland County A prosecutor will not pursue charges against an off-duty sheriff’s deputy who shot a Black pedestrian on a busy road, finding the deputy had reason to fear bodily harm and defend himself. The Conference of District Attorneys reviewed the shooting death of Jason Walker on Jan. 8 after the local district attorney recused himself from the case. In a letter Thursday, conference executive director Kimberly Overton Spahos wrote it will not be seeking charges against Jeffrey Hash, who was off duty from his job at the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office at the time of the shooting. AP

Cleveland County Autumn Johnson, 19, was killed on Friday when the car she was driving was hit by a 76-year-old driver from Morganton who was going the wrong way on the highway in Cleveland County in Mooresboro. The 76-year-old, whose name was not immediately released, was also killed in the crash. Johnson was about to graduate from Crest High School.

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Girl killed in wrong-way crash

Hurricane Florence audit identifies over $1.28B in fund monitoring and measure issues

Prosecutor: No charges in shooting of pedestrian by deputy

Davie County Authorities say four people, including two children, died in a fire that erupted in a home. Davie County Sheriff J.D. Hartman told reporters that investigators believe that a father, mother and their two young children died in Monday afternoon’s house fire in Cooleemee. Hartman said autopsies could help investigators determine the cause of their deaths. The cause of the fire remained under investigation.

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4 dead, including 2 children, in house fire

Man arrested for stealing construction equipment

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20. Davidson County Community College 21. Stanly Community College 22. South Piedmont Community College 23. Guilford Technical Community College 24. Randolph Community College 25. Montgomery Community College 26. Rockingham Community College 27. Richmond Community College 28. Sandhills Community College 29. Alamance Community College 30. Central Carolina Community College 31. Piedmont Community College 32. Durham Technical Community College 33. Fayetteville Technical Community College 34. Robeson Community College 35. Southeastern Community College 36. Bladen Community College

PIEDMONT

Wilkes County Agents with North Carolina’s Alcohol Law Enforcement Unit charged more than 250 people Friday night in a series of coordinated actions. Officials said the charges included alcohol, drug, firearm, driving and gambling offenses. In addition, police seized six firearms, including an AR-15 rifle illegally possessed by a convicted felon. Also seized were 77 fake IDs and an illegal distillery, officials said. Cities involved in the operation included Wilmington, Greenville, Durham, Greensboro, High Point, Charlotte, Boone, Conover, Wilkesboro, Lenoir, Fayetteville, Lumberton, Pembroke, Laurinburg, Lenoir, Biscoe, Yanceyville, Sylva, Cullowhee, and Dillsboro.

1. Tri-County Community College 2. Southwestern Community College 3. Haywood Community College 4. Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College 5. Blue Ridge Community College 6. Isothermal Community College 7. McDowell Technical Community College 8. Maryland Community College 9. Western Piedmont Community Collge 10. Cleveland Community College 11. Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute 12. Catawba Valley Community College 13. Gaston College 14. Wilkes Community College 15. Mitchell Community College 16. Central Piedmont Community College 17. Surry Community College 18. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College 19. Forsyth Technical Community College

North Carolina conducts alcohol enforcement, 250 charged

Black bear proves perfect pedestrian in downtown Asheville

Nash County A mother and her boyfriend have been charged with involuntary manslaughter after her two young children died Saturday. Rocky Mount Police say the 1-year-old girl and her 3-month-old baby brother were found unresponsive Saturday morning and declared dead at a nearby hospital. Police have not released additional details about the circumstances of their death. Later Saturday, police arrested the mother and her boyfriend, both 21. They were each charged with involuntary manslaughter and felony child abuse. Police said their investigation continues and that further charges are possible once the medical examiner’s office completes its report.

Durham company a winner in Elon Musk-funded greenhouse gas contest

Durham County Ideas for reducing greenhouse gas in the atmosphere are getting a funding boost from famed entrepreneur Elon Musk. Musk is bankrolling a $100 million XPRIZE competition for the most promising ways to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide by grabbing the gas out of the air. The 15 initial “milestone round” winners of the contest, including Durham’s 8 Rivers Capital, each get $1 million, helping to carry on with and scale up their work. Winning ideas range from restoring rain forests by farming algae on cleared lands to producing a sort of artificial limestone with a process mimicking ocean chemistry. AP

Officials: Inmates escape prison, found hours later Robeson County Two inmates escaped a North Carolina prison Monday, but were caught hours later, officials said. Craig Guess Jr., 39, and Arlo Swink Jr., 38, escaped from the Robeson Confinement in Response to Violation Center in Lumberton shortly before 3 p.m. and were found nearby on foot three hours later. Officials are investigating how they escaped. Guess and Swink were serving 90-day periods of confinement for violations of their post-release supervision, officials said. The men were sent to a higher custody level facility and will be charged with felony escape, officials said.

Edenton gets two grants to reuse buildings Chowan County The N.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority approved nearly $4 million in grants to help rural businesses renovate property. Edenton received two grants. A $500,000 award will reuse a building that will be used by sports boat tech company Hermes Marine. $200,000 will expand a building used by Regulator Marine. The grants will help create about 161 jobs in the county.

RALEIGH — An audit of Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery funds by N.C. State Auditor Beth Wood’s office has found hundreds of millions of dollars distributed with limited monitoring and accountability. The audit identified $502 million of Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery Funds were distributed with limited monitoring. Additionally, $783 million was distributed to recipients with no way to measure results. Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in September 2018, causing widespread wind damage and was accompanied by historic flooding. Over 35 deaths in the state were blamed on the storm which was estimated to have incurred around $4.8 billion in damages. The following month, the North Carolina General Assembly created the Hurricane Florence Emergency Response Act. Through multiple pieces of legislation, lawmakers appropriated roughly $942.4 million to the recovery fund to be dispersed through upward of five state agencies and other entities related to hurricane recovery efforts. According to the audit, $783 million had been distributed from the fund as of Jan. 31, 2021. The N.C. Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) is the state agency that lawmakers designated to disperse the disaster recovery funds. The audit’s findings state NCDPS “did not design and implement procedures to ensure that Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery Funds were being spent in accordance with Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery legislation” or that the programs “operated by recipients of Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery Funds were achieving their legislatively intended results.” NCDPS Secretary Eddie Buffaloe’s response reiterated the audit’s findings and recommendations but neither concurred with nor denied them. Buffaloe instead said that legislation “outcome language may be vague” and that his department therefore has to deliver funds to various entities to the best of its ability. Buffaloe also said NCDPS uses a “Scope of Work” document to guide and track the progress of appropriations, but wrote that “Nevertheless, the

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Department’s authority is limited in withholding any funds or providing oversight on grants.” This is very concerning,” said House Majority Leader John Bell (R-Wayne) in a joint statement with Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Brendan Jones (R- Columbus). “It is also sadly part of a pattern we have seen from the Cooper administration when it comes to mishandling hurricane relief funding. “We intend to look into this issue more closely through our oversight committees to ensure proper oversight and guidelines are in place to make sure these funds are spent appropriately and get to those in need,” Bell said. Jones echoed Bell’s sentiments, stating that it “frustrates me to no end seeing the numbers released yesterday,” and that “After 4 long years, it is grossly apparent as to the absolute negligence of Gov. Cooper and his administration in dealing with this tragic situation.” The lawmakers joint statement also referenced a May 2019 report by the nonpartisan Program Evaluation Division (PED) at the General Assembly detailing the Cooper Administration’s mishandling of Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts. The PED report, titled “Administrative Missteps and Lack of Expertise Led to Delays and $3.7 Million in Unnecessary State Spending for Hurricane Matthew Recovery,” found that “more than two years since Hurricane Matthew made landfall, the state has spent only 1% of its total $236.5 million” of the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds awarded by the federal government. Following Hurricane Matthew, Gov. Roy Cooper was also criticized for dodging questions from the media about stalled recovery spending and last-minute changes in contracts for managing recovery projects. In one instance, North Carolina Emergency Management Service (NCEMS) awarded a project contract to a company called AECOM, only to withdraw it a month after work started. As reported by WBTV at the time, NCEMS tried to alter the bid process to change the outcome of which of three companies would get the award. The contract was ultimately re-awarded to a competitor, IEM, whose CEO had donated the maximum amount to Cooper’s gubernatorial election campaign. Cooper also took a hit for releasing campaign style videos showing him shaking hands with victims of the storm that one editorial board criticized as inappropriately “self-congratulatory.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

How abortion can stop a Republican political tsunami this fall

Back in my days, they used Bayer aspirin for contraception. The gals put it between their knees, and it wasn’t that costly.

IF POLITICAL TSUNAMIS HAD NAMES, this upcoming midterm election might be called “Biden” by future political historians. The gangplank of far-left policies that liberal socialist Democrats AOC, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren have forced him to walk have failed miserably. Inflation is roaring hotter than North Carolina summers in August. Gas prices are through the roof. Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine after Biden essentially said a “minor incursion” was ok. There are still thousands of Americans left behind after his botched troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. Biden’s approval/disapproval ratings according to Gallup are a dismal 42/54. Other reputable polls have him in the mid-30s or lower. To put those horrible numbers in context, Bill Clinton’s approval ratings sank to 46% vs 46% disapproval right before the 1994 mid-term elections. Republicans picked up 52 House seats and took control of Congress for the first time in forty years. President Barack Obama‘s Gallup approval/disapproval ratings fell to 45/47 in November 2010 after he signed Obamacare into law the previous March and the Tea Party exploded. Democrats lost 63 seats in Congress, second only to the historic 81-seat loss by FDR in 1938. Biden’s poor political numbers portend a massive Democrat loss of seats in Congress this fall. Any Democrat incumbent who won by 10% or less in the past is vulnerable. If they all lost, Republicans would gain 89 seats in Congress and five in the U.S. Senate. But before any Republican pops open the champagne, they need to be reminded that Republicans have a rich history of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory in the past. Especially when it comes to Republican male candidates talking about women’s reproductive rights which will come into play this summer. The Supreme Court is scheduled to issue their ruling on the Dobbs case from Texas which could overturn the 1973 Roe vs Wade Supreme Court ruling and revert future decisions on abortion back to the state level. In 2012, Democrats held a 53-47 majority but most analysts thought Republicans had at least a 60% chance to pick up enough seats to regain majority control of the Senate given the mood of the country and Obama’s low approval ratings.

The Republican candidate for the Senate in Missouri, Congressman Todd Akin, was way ahead in the polls against Claire McCaskill by 10% before he said in a TV interview that “most legitimate rapes don’t lead to pregnancy”. He proceeded to lose by 16 points, a swing of 26 points. Indiana Republican Senate candidate, State Treasurer Richard Mourdock said in his final debate “I came to realize that life is that gift from God. And even when life begins in that horrible situation of rape, that it is something that God intended to happen”. Foster Friess, a prominent backer of Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum, didn’t help any when he said during an interview with NBC’s Andrea Mitchell: “On this contraceptive thing, my gosh, it’s such [sic] inexpensive. You know, back in my days, they used Bayer aspirin for contraception. The gals put it between their knees, and it wasn’t that costly” which he later cast off as a joke — but it wasn’t funny. Older white male Republican candidates making what can be best classified as “clumsy” statements about abortion and rape was a major reason why Republicans suffered a net loss of two seats to remain in the minority instead of taking control of the Senate in 2012. It can happen again this year. If the Supreme Court issues a ruling in late June or July that upholds the Texas law and essentially overturns Roe vs. Wade, then pro-choice forces will have every reason to energize their supporters to get out and vote in large numbers. All any single Republican candidate has to do is make a similar clumsy statement about abortion or rape and the possible Republican tsunami of 2022 will be reduced to a mere ripple in the kiddie pool. Democrat strategists are praying that Donald Trump will announce his candidacy for the White House before the fall elections so they can make him their boogeyman again. They need something to make voters ignore their abysmal policy failures since January 20, 2021. If Trump makes a similar clumsy statement about abortion, rape and aspirin after the Dobbs case decision, then all Democrat prayers will be answered this fall.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

Washington Post’s attempt at canceling popular conservative Twitter account backfires

Since the Washington Post piece was published, the Libs of TikTok account has grown by 327,000 followers and is closing in on a million.

AS MUCH AS WE ALL WOULD LIKE for cancel culture to go away, unfortunately, it’s going to be with us for the foreseeable future. It will be with us at least until its proponents can either be convinced of its many pitfalls or fall victim to it themselves. The latest attempt at cancellation comes courtesy of the Washington Post, who last week via their technology reporter Taylor Lorenz outed the popular “Libs of TikTok” (LoTT) Twitter account, essentially branding them harmful to society over the content they feature on their page. LoTT’s apparent crime was simply reposting TikTok videos of radical leftist public school “educators” in their own words bragging about the indoctrination tactics they use on their young students on issues like gender identity politics, sexual orientation, and Critical Race Theory. According to Lorenz, LoTT sharing those publicly available videos had caused some of the teachers in the clips to either be suspended, lose their jobs, or receive threats. Further, some of what LoTT had linked to on their page was reportedly seen by members of the administration of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and in part were the basis for his support of the Parental Rights in Education bill and the Stop WOKE Act, both of which he signed into law. It was ostensibly for those reasons that Lorenz felt perfectly justified in doxxing (digging up personal information not publicly available) the private citizen behind the anonymous Twitter account in part by using information obtained by a member of an “open resource group” funded by the German government. She was also assisted by the far-left “Media Matters” group, and even at one point knocked on the doors of family members seeking comment. I should also note for the record that Lorenz herself in the past has decried the use of the very tactics she used against LoTT. Except when Lorenz was shedding tears over the tactic, it’s because it had been used on her in response to some of her other name and shame campaigns against anonymous social media users. Though things got a little scary in the immediate aftermath of the report going live (LoTT announced they had to “hole up in a safe location” for a

time), the Post’s efforts at intimidating LoTT to shut up and go quietly into the night ended up backfiring spectacularly. Since the Washington Post piece was published, the LoTT account has grown by 327,000 followers and is closing in on a million. In addition to that, they’ve started a Substack page where they are boasting of “thousands of paid subscribers.” Perhaps best of all, on the same day all hell broke loose, Seth Dillon, who is the CEO of The Babylon Bee, announced a personal deal he made with LoTT that would allow it to keep doing what it was doing. “The exposure of @libsoftiktok isn’t journalism; it’s pure intimidation,” Dillon wrote in a Twitter post. “They’re threatened by her effectiveness, so they hope to silence her by making her too afraid to continue. They want to raise the cost of doing her work so high that she has no choice but to quit.” “But I think they’ll be surprised by her resolve. She’s afraid, as anyone would be in these circumstances, but she’s also determined to not be bullied, threatened, or harassed into silence. That takes remarkable courage that few people possess,” Dillon also noted. Fortunately, thanks to Dillon, the support of hundreds of thousands of followers, and the resolve of the person behind the LoTT account themselves, LoTT is going to come out of this smelling like a rose, and stronger than ever. That said, the Washington Post still shouldn’t be let off the hook for what it tried to do. Readers should email their opinions to the paper, letting them respectfully but firmly know just how badly they screwed up. 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, April 27, 2022 COLUMN | CHARLES BLAHOUS

Fixing the federal budget requires changing how entitlement programs spend THOUGH AMERICAN POLITICIANS RARELY ACKNOWLEDGE IT, federal finances are relentlessly deteriorating almost entirely because of automatic growth in entitlement programs. We often lose sight of this reality whenever other events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, a tax cut or an appropriated spending binge, cause a onetime worsening of the federal budget deficit. But such events have very little to do with why federal finances keep worsening year after year. This problem cannot be corrected unless lawmakers reform mandatory spending programs such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. I recently participated in a timely research project directed by Barry Poulson, John Merrifield and Steve Hanke examining international experience with methods of ensuring sustainable government fiscal policies. My contribution to the volume found that U.S. federal finances can be stabilized only if lawmakers make fundamental design changes to the largest entitlement programs. Research uncovers a clear historical pattern. Efforts to stabilize the federal budget typically fail because of tendencies to exempt the very programs whose growth drives the problem: namely, Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. The budget needs to be fixed from the ground up, meaning changes to individual entitlement programs to make them separately sustainable, thereby rendering broader federal finances more manageable. The history of why our largest mandatory spending programs lack effective financial controls is instructive. Social Security’s untenable cost growth hasn’t been dealt with because of widespread, erroneous assumptions that legislators can and will enact corrective measures when its trust funds near depletion, as was done in 1983. But that 1983 fix was an anomaly, reflecting conditions that haven’t existed for decades since. Long ago, Social Security’s finances were kept in check largely through conservative accounting methods employed by the program’s chief actuary until the early 1970s. The end of those practices opened the door to legislation creating automatic benefit growth soon thereafter, which lawmakers still haven’t determined how to finance. The 1983 Social Security fix was possible only because of a previous tradition of funding the program on a pay-as-you-go basis, meaning its trust funds were kept relatively small. Thus, when the system got in trouble, the lack of a significant funding reserve compelled legislators to act before the problem got too large. That’s no longer true; today the Social Security shortfall is already becoming intractably large well before its trust funds approach depletion. The 1983 fix is not the behavioral norm; rather, the norm is the several recent decades of lawmakers evading responsibility, and Social Security’s lack of effective financing controls. The situation with Medicare and Medicaid is even worse. Medicare

is financed through two trust funds, but only the smaller of them (hospital insurance) contains mechanisms to force occasional financing corrections. Consequently, cost growth is faster on the other side of Medicare (supplementary medical insurance), whose growth translates directly into larger budget deficits. Meanwhile, Medicaid has the fewest financial controls of all. It’s no coincidence that in recent years, lawmakers have expanded Medicaid most aggressively of the three programs, despite mounting evidence that expansion is precipitating more improper payments and other problems. Perhaps the most fascinating finding of my research pertained to which reform approaches work and which don’t. There have been multiple efforts to stabilize the budget through mechanisms that would automatically cut appropriated spending unless lawmakers enact other correctives. These ultimately fail because, first, exempting large entitlements requires far deeper cuts in appropriations than lawmakers will accept, and second because even when they are implemented, they don’t fix the underlying problem. The most conspicuous failures have been process-based solutions, such as special committees, commissions, fast-track legislative procedures and ostensibly independent cost-cutting boards. Lawmakers have tried repeatedly to outsource the difficult politics to specially empowered decisional councils, and it doesn’t work. As is often said: The problem is not the process, the problem is the problem. So, what does work? Rare successes include gradual adjustment provisions written directly into law — for example, automatic indexing of Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, or (so far) gradual provider payment adjustments in the Affordable Care Act. The onetime creation of a gradual, automatic correction mechanism is much more powerful and reliable than counting on legislators to assemble fragile coalitions, year after year, to cast difficult votes to cut spending. Many nations employ such automatic adjustment mechanisms to manage their public benefit systems, and several U.S. experts have devised promising methods to automatically keep Social Security and Medicare finances in balance. But one thing is certain: There is no solution to our worsening budget woes unless we enact an effective means of moderating the exploding cost growth of federal mandatory spending programs. Without such fundamental reforms to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, an eventual fiscal crisis is guaranteed. Charles Blahous is the J. Fish and Lillian F. Smith Chair and senior research strategist at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. This opinion piece was first published in The Hill and has been republished with permission.

COLUMN | MARTHA JENKINS

Keep nine Supreme Court Justices PUBLIC SUPPORT for packing the Supreme Court is very low, yet progressives are mounting a campaign to add additional seats to skew the ideological balance of the court. Most people, if they think of court packing at all, assume that the idea died with Franklin D. Roosevelt when his own Democrat party panned the idea as too drastic. But recent rhetoric and published articles show that there is a movement afoot to expand the court as soon as progressives get enough votes in Congress. There have been nine justices on the Supreme Court since 1869. Most people think the Constitution sets the number at nine. However, the Constitution grants Congress the authority to set the number of justices on the court, and bills were filed in both houses of Congress in 2021 to add four more seats. Manipulating the court for partisan advantage is antithetical to the American system of checks and balances provided by an independent judicial branch. The Supreme Court keeps both the Executive Branch and the Legislative Branch accountable to Constitutional principles. One of the first things Hugo Chavez did when he took over Venezuela was to pack the Court so that it could not stop him from becoming a dictator. Without an independent Supreme Court, there is nothing to check the balance of power, and no guarantee that states can hold the federal government to the Constitution. During the 2020 campaign, Joe Biden said voters didn’t deserve to know where he stood on court packing. Soon after his inauguration, President Biden appointed a commission to report on potential “reforms” to the Supreme Court. This Commission sidestepped the court packing issue, although progressive groups like Demand Justice were vocal in criticizing the Commission for its lack of support for court packing. The Commission’s report was essentially a ruse, intended to keep the issue of court packing in the background. Public polling shows that the American public is very much against increasing the number of justices. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg

said “Nine is a good number” and retiring Justice Breyer has also spoken against packing the court. Several years ago, a bipartisan group of former state attorneys general ― including Rufus Edmisten from North Carolina ― proposed “The Keep Nine Amendment” which simply says “The Supreme Court of the United States shall be composed of nine justices.” In early 2021, House Joint Resolution 11 and Senate Joint Resolution 9 were filed to implement the amendment. To date, there are 178 cosponsors of the House Resolution including North Carolina Representatives Dan Bishop, Ted Budd, Madison Cawthorn, Virginia Foxx, Richard Hudson, Patrick McHenry, Greg Murphy and David Rouzer. The Senate Resolution has 21 total sponsors including Senators Richard Burr and Thom Tillis. Last May, the North Carolina House of Representatives passed House Joint Resolution 286 calling on Congress to pass the Amendment and send it to the states for ratification. One of the most compelling debaters in favor of this Resolution was Wake County Representative, and retired judge Abe Jones, who pointed out the importance of keeping the Court independent of both the legislative and judicial branches. He noted that once one political party had packed the court, the other party, when it gained a majority, would do the same thing. The Court would become nothing but a rubber stamp for the party in power. The results of the election in November may temporarily prevent the progressive left from increasing the size of the Supreme Court. The only way to permanently prevent court packing and protect the balance of powers Americans rely on is the Keep Nine Amendment. Ask candidates running for federal and state offices in 2022 where they stand on the Keep Nine Amendment. A candidate who will not answer this question wants to keep the option open to pack the court. Martha Jenkins lives in Orange County

COLUMN | MARY ZAHRAN

Elon Musk’s “threat” to democracy ELON MUSK, the man who gave us Tesla and SpaceX, is now giving us something else: An intimate look at the galling hypocrisy of most of the mainstream media. Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion and intends to make it a private company. When making this offer, Musk expressed his interest in transforming Twitter into a “platform for free speech around the globe” because free speech is “a societal imperative for a functioning democracy.” With that statement, Musk sent most of the mainstream media into a panic. Making electric vehicles is one thing; making it possible for people to engage in open debates without any censorship is quite another. Building a rocket to take people into space is exciting; building a platform that encourages the free exchange of ideas is not. Only a crazy person would do that. According to the mainstream media, who see themselves as the guardians of truth, free speech is the last thing a democracy needs. Washington Post columnist Max Boot confessed in a recent column that he is “frightened” by the prospect that Musk might buy Twitter and transform it into a platform with minimal oversight. In case his fearfulness is not enough to make him look ridiculous, Boot tweeted that for “democracy to survive, we need more content moderation, not less.” When Boot says he believes in content moderation, he is not kidding. He and his media cohorts have been practicing it for years, but only in ways that benefit leftists, not conservatives. During the early years of Trump’s presidency, most members of the mainstream media pushed the narrative that Trump was a Russian asset who was beholden to Vladimir Putin for his election victory. They were basing that assertion on a dossier consisting of what they knew was unverifiable information, but they continued to report this story as if it were undeniably true. In the summer of 2020, when cities were set ablaze, statues were toppled, and police officers were under constant attack by mobs, a reporter in Minneapolis stood in front of a burning building and said the protests were “mostly peaceful.” Even

when the evidence is right in front of us, the media wants to control the narrative by trying to make us believe something our own eyes tell us isn’t true. In September of 2020, Sarah Huckabee Sanders was a guest on “The View.” When she began to list all the financial gains of minorities and women because of Trump’s economic policies, her microphone was turned off. Someone in charge had decided that viewers shouldn’t hear this information because it offered positive news about the Trump administration. In October of 2020, with the presidential election just weeks away, the New York Post published stories about Hunter Biden’s laptop. The emails and photos on this laptop suggested an inappropriate, if not criminal, relationship between some Biden family members and foreign officials and entrepreneurs. Once again, the mainstream media went into “content moderation” mode and completely ignored this story. When “content moderation” lapses into overt partisanship, it becomes “propaganda”, not news, facts or even opinion. Propaganda and indoctrination are the biggest threats to democracy, not free speech. Only recently have these same outlets finally acknowledged that this laptop belongs to Hunter Biden. In their almost universal suppression of this significant discovery, they may have determined the outcome of a presidential election. But it is Elon Musk, with his dangerous dream of creating a platform for uncensored speech, who poses a threat to democracy, they say. If you listen carefully, you can hear the sound of the Founding Fathers spinning in their graves because of the media’s attempt to control free speech. The fact that freedom of speech is in the First Amendment tells us how important this right was to them. Elon Musk, with his visionary genius, has enough sense to appreciate not only what may happen in the future but what has happened in the past. He knows how important free speech is to a flourishing nation, and he wants to help promote and preserve it. If this kind of thinking makes him a threat to democracy, then we need more people just like him.

A7 COLUMN STEPHEN MOORE

Another high-tech titan falters YOU’VE PROBABLY HEARD of the high-f lying Big Tech FAANG stocks — Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netf lix and Google. Among the five of them, their market cap reached $6 trillion last year, which is more than the GDP of all but a small handful of entire countries. Moreover, their net worth is larger than the entire annual output of India, with more than 1 billion people. These companies got so big and profitable so fast that politicians on the left, right and center started accusing them of monopolistic behavior. “Break them up!” shouted Democratic Sens. Bernie Sanders and Amy Klobuchar. Some Republicans, such as Josh Hawley, endorsed the same strategy. But has anyone noticed what has happened to the stock values of these once-invincible powerhouses? Netf lix’s stock has gotten crushed of late. Just f lattened. Its share price collapsed by 35% in one day. This was one of the most significant single-day sell-offs in the history of stocks. For now, the rout doesn’t seem to be waning. Over the past year, Netf lix’s market cap has tumbled from $267 billion to close to $96 billion. Sorry if you own this stock. And most pension funds do own Netf lix as part of their portfolios, so it wasn’t just millionaires who got hurt. The Netf lix brass blames its demise of late on “fierce competition” for subscribers. Meanwhile, Facebook has suffered even more considerable losses that exceed one-half a trillion dollars. That’s not supposed to happen to monopolies that crush the competition. Instead, the hunters have become the hunted. Facebook is confronting serious competition from other social media platforms such as LinkedIn and China’s TikTok, which are elbowing out Facebook’s dominance. What are we to make of all this jostling to be king of the mountain in the digital domain? I carry no water for Big Tech, and I’m as frustrated with the free speech infringements against conservatives as anyone. But cries of “monopoly” are so early 20th century. Just as no one worries about Standard Oil, Microsoft or General Motors taking over their industries, we see the same cutthroat survival tactics in the hypercompetitive tech sector. This kind of competition is great news for the consumer. It lowers prices and makes a mockery of the “monopoly” rants. Companies such as Google better look over their shoulders. If you slip up, the marauders are coming to steal away your market share. Sometimes, the raiders aren’t even American companies. Globalization and free trade have dramatically lowered the prices of nearly all digital products. That is as it should be in a free-market capitalist world. One day, you are on top of the world and seemingly in an impenetrable fortress, and the next, you lose half your market cap. We don’t need trust-buster regulators in Washington, like the leftist Lina Khan of the Federal Trade Commission, policing our businesses. The market is doing that just fine, thank you. America has gained tech dominance over our rivals, especially China, Japan and Europe, because we have allowed the digital economy to remain mostly tax- and regulation-free. It’s the Wild West in Silicon Valley and Austin, Texas, which created the trillions in wealth in the first place. The high-tech industry has added value and wealth at a blistering pace, and how sad is it that when our American ingenuity and inventiveness succeed, the trust-busters want to tear it down? Then, when these tech giants start to surrender their competitive advantage, the fool politicians want to give them billions of dollars of corporate welfare handouts from taxpayers. The late and great Austrian economist Joseph Schumpeter called the process of inventing new products to challenge the extant corporate power structures in business “creative destruction.” The Netf lix and Facebook selloff is a jolting reminder that the market is a better way than government to keep companies honest and on top of their game. It also keeps prices low. Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at Freedom Works. He is also author of the new book: “Govzilla: How The Relentless Growth of Government Is Devouring Our Economy.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

NATION & WORLD Iowa GOP open to non-Trump prospects as 2024 gets underway

Georgia’s Kemp and Perdue clash over elections in debate

The Associated Press DES MOINES, Iowa — Former President Donald Trump’s persistent flirtation with another White House run is doing little to discourage other potential Republican candidates from stepping up their activity in Iowa, the state that will formally launch the 2024 nomination process. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo quietly finished his fifth trip to Iowa last week, and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley is making plans for a statewide trip this summer. Former Vice President Mike Pence, meanwhile, is expected to visit the heart of conservative western Iowa this weekend. Pence’s trip is particularly notable since he spent the better part of four years in lockstep with Trump. It provides further evidence that Pence is considering his political future without regard to the former president’s plans. Pence and his wife, Karen, will make their plans based on “where they are being called to serve, not on what anyone else is doing, including Trump,” said senior Pence adviser Marc Short. From his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump is closely watching the developments in Iowa and working with operatives in the state to ensure that he would dominate the caucuses if he decided to run again. But some Republicans warn that Trump doesn’t have the state locked down. His status as a former president who remains deeply popular with the GOP base “doesn’t mean someone else with the right message couldn’t appeal to them in a way that really cuts into Trump’s support,” said David Kochel, a veteran Iowa Republican campaign strategist. Pence, in particular, seems prepared to dig in to the state, especially the sprawling swath of northern and western Iowa where Christian conservatives have lifted the past three GOP caucus winners. Making his third trip to Iowa since the 2020 election, Pence plans to campaign on Saturday with Rep. Randy Feenstra in the Republican-heavy 4th Congressional District and cap the day with a speech to the county GOP meeting in Ames.

AP PHOTO

Former Vice President Mike Pence chats with Republican activists John and Ian Latham at a Story County Republican fundraiser in Ames, Iowa, Saturday, April 23, 2022. Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has yet to visit the state. The closest he’s come is as a guest of Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts’ at a September fundraiser south of Omaha. “There are a number of people that are interesting and have done work that’s been noticed, especially Ron DeSantis,” said former Republican county chair Gwen Ecklund, of Crawford County in conservative western Iowa. DeSantis, governor of the nation’s third most-populous state, has recently become a rallying voice in the country’s cultural battles, particularly related to LGBTQ issues. He has refused to recognize the transgender swimmer who won the NCAA women’s freestyle championship. He signed a bill last month forbidding instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity for early elementary school students, a measure opponents have dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” law. He’s in an increasingly heated battle with Disney, whose executives have criticized the anti-LGBTQ measures. At his request, the Florida legislature gave final passage to a bill that would stop allowing Walt Disney World to

operate a private government over its properties in the state. Influential Republican donors, such as retired insurance executive Cam Sutton of suburban Des Moines, describe DeSantis as similar to Trump on policy, “but without the tweets.” Still, Trump remains overwhelmingly popular among Iowa Republicans. According to The Des Moines Register’s Iowa Poll in October, 91% of Iowa Republicans said they have a favorable view of him. That same month, during Trump’s most recent appearance in Iowa, he drew tens of thousands to the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where he endorsed Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley, who is seeking an eighth term. Iowa staff working for his super PAC were recently meeting at the former president’s Florida home to discuss his Iowa plans for the year, mindful of the attention others would be receiving. “Oh, I know there are some who can’t wait for him to run again,” said Crawford County’s Ecklund. “But others are sitting back and starting to pay attention to others.”

McCarthy’s push to ascend to House speaker relies on Trump

is coming into its own. As secondand third-generation immigrants become eligible to vote, their party allegiance is highly sought after by Democrats and Republicans working to boost numbers and turnout. “We’re a red dot in a very blue county, but I keep telling people the blue wave is cracking through that red wall,” he said. To prepare for the November elections, McCarthy is reaching back to the tools of another former Republican speaker, Newt Gingrich of Georgia, who won control in the 1994 election after presenting voters with the “Contract with America” list of GOP priorities. McCarthy has tasked his rank and file with assembling its own list of priorities to present to the public this summer. He acknowledged his ideas are not being embraced by the other GOP leader in Congress, Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who has said the election will be a referendum on President Joe Biden and Democratic policies. “This is where Mitch and I disagree,” McCarthy said. “I think we have to lay out to the American public what you’re going to do ahead of time, because when the people go to vote, they vote for the agenda.” Longtime Kern County Republican Party leader Cathy Abernathy, who first hired McCarthy as a young congressional intern a generation ago, said she is not convinced that Republicans will be able to win control this fall, despite outside analysis suggesting the election is theirs to lose. “I don’t take it for granted,” she said. It’s not the first time McCarthy has reached for the speaker’s gavel, having dropped out of a race abruptly in 2015 when it was clear he did not have support from hardright lawmakers. “Do I want to be speaker? Yes. But I don’t have to be speaker,” McCarthy said. “My life will be fine one way or another.”

Last month, he outlined a policy agenda for 2022 candidates, noting “elections are about the future.” The GOP’s full court press in Iowa won’t likely begin until after the November midterm elections. But the party has already committed to maintaining the state’s status as home to the first nominating contest. That’s in contrast to Democrats, who are attempting to revise their calendar. Pompeo, who wrapped up a twoday trip in western Iowa last week, has been a regular visitor, appearing at local, county and state GOP meetings across the state. But it’s Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton who owns the early lead for Iowa visits at six, with a seventh planned for July. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, the 2016 Iowa GOP caucus winner, has also visited, and endorsed candidates for Congress. Despite the activity, it’s unclear that anyone visiting the state is gaining much traction among Iowa GOP activists at this early stage. During recent interviews with a dozen county Republican activists, GOP consultants and donors, much of the focus was on Florida

The Associated Press BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The next speaker of the U.S. House could very well hail from California — not Nancy Pelosi’s slice of the Golden State, but the other California, Donald Trump’s California. House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy is a son of the Central Valley, a farming and oil-pumping heartland that eagerly embraced the former president. A swath of rural conservatism amid California’s progressive politics, it’s where residents often feel ostracized, resented and left behind by their liberal neighbors in San Francisco to the north and Los Angeles to the south. “We’re the forgotten valley,” said retired insurance salesman Chuck Hall at a Republican Party dinner last week in Fresno. It’s here where McCarthy launched his political rise, from a young entrepreneur who set up a sandwich counter inside his uncle’s frozen yogurt shop to one of the more powerful Republicans in state and national politics. His career took off during the Trump era, when McCarthy was an early backer who understood the magnetic pull of Trump’s populism in drawing working-class people away from Democrats and into the Republican fold. McCarthy’s career in many ways reflects the arc of Republican politics, coming of age in the heady optimism of Ronald Reagan’s presidency and then shifting to align with Trump’s more hard-edged criticism of the status quo and Democratic policies.

AP PHOTO

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., speaks to reporters during his weekly press conference at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022. Inflation has sent gas prices skyhigh, at nearly $6 a gallon, pushing the price of a fill up into triple digits for some. Crime remains a problem as the region struggles with population fluctuations and income inequality. The coronavirus crisis hangs over the community as it does elsewhere as the nation emerges from the pandemic. Families watching kids at a weeknight Little League game held mixed views, with some believing McCarthy is part of the problem in Washington and others seeing him as a potential solution. Garrilynn Dickerson, a respiratory therapist and mother of two who treated COVID-19 patients at a local hospital, said she just wants Republicans and Democrats to work together.

“Honestly, I just want unity,” said the independent voter who said she likes libertarian leaning Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., but also wants to see McCarthy reach out more to Democrats. “I don’t like the mudslinging.” Despite its conservative roots, the place that’s often called the Texas of the West is also changing. The once predominantly white population is fading as Latinos and other demographic groups gain in numbers. The Bakersfield City Council is working on new district lines to incorporate the growing Punjabi population. Christian Romo, chairman of the Kern County Democrats, said the birthplace of the farm workers movement and the home to civil rights labor leader Cesar Chavez

Atlanta The top two Republicans running for governor in Georgia launched the first of three debates by bickering over who was responsible for 2020 and 2021 Republican election losses, with former U.S. Sen. David Perdue pressing his attack that incumbent Gov. Brian Kemp is to blame for Democratic control in Washington, while Kemp fired back that Perdue was trying to pass the blame for his own loss to Democrat Jon Ossoff. “The election in 2020 was rigged and stolen,” Perdue said during the debate sponsored by Atlanta’s WSB-TV. “All the madness we see today ... all that started right here in Georgia when our governor caved and allowed out radical Democrats to steal our elections.” Kemp said he followed the law, that Perdue was lying to voters about his claim that Kemp permitted a settlement agreement over how signatures on absentee ballots were verified, and that the secretary of state and State Election Board have primary responsibility for investigating election wrongdoing. The debates come as voting nears in for the May 24 primary. Counties began mailing absentee ballots Monday and early in-person voting begins May 2. Kemp and Perdue are scheduled to meet Thursday in Savannah and May 1 in Atlanta. Perdue is endorsed by Trump, who has been focused on defeating Kemp. But Kemp has maintained a lead in fundraising and in the polls as he seeks a second term. That dynamic played out in the debate, with Perdue attacking and Kemp by turns defensive and dismissive. “He has divided us,” Perdue said of Kemp. “He will not be able to beat Stacey Abrams. And if we want to protect our freedom and our values, we have to vote and we have to make sure that Stacey is never our governor.”

Israeli minister: Parties trying to keep coalition afloat Jerusalem A key partner in Israel’s governing coalition said Monday that all the factions are working to try and keep the fragile coalition afloat, less than a year after it was sworn into office. The coalition has come under threat by internal squabbles and escalating violence with the Palestinians. Earlier this month a member of Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s party split from the ruling coalition, leaving the government without a majority in parliament and raising the possibility of yet another national election after years of political chaos. The eight-party alliance, made up of ultranationalists, dovish parties and a small Islamist faction, is now deadlocked with the opposition with 60 seats each in the 120-member Knesset. That has greatly complicated the government’s ability to pass legislation and raised the risk of plunging the country into snap elections. Bennett’s unwieldy coalition came to power following a protracted political crisis that saw Israelis go to the polls four times in about two years. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Hornets begin coaching search, B4

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Carolina Kudzu players Joseph Giampino, right, Mike Ilardi and Mike Ahren watch from the dugout during their Sandlot Revival game against the Nashville Dollys on Saturday at Durham Athletic Park.

Legends never die: Sandlot baseball making comeback COLLEGE BASKETBALL

UNC’s Love returning, Duke’s freshman trio turning pro Chapel Hill / Durham UNC guard Caleb Love is returning for his junior season, but Duke’s three freshman phenoms are headed to the NBA. Love averaged 15.9 points and joins Armando Bacot, RJ Davis and Leaky Black in deciding to return to the Tar Heels after a run to the national championship game earlier this month. Duke’s Paolo Banchero, Trevor Keels and A.J. Griffin, meanwhile, all decided to turn pro after one season with the Blue Devils. The trio are considered potential first round picks, with Banchero — who averaged 17.2 points and 7.8 rebounds this past season — in consideration to be the top overall selection. Keels averaged 11.5 points while Griffin posted 10.4 points per game. They join Wendell Moore Jr. and Mark Williams as players leaving prior to new coach Jon Scheyer’s first season as Mike Krzyzewski’s replacement.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Kayla Jones starts hometown scholarship Williamston NC State forward Kayla Jones was drafted 22nd overall in the second round of the WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx. It took her two weeks to use her success to give back. The 6‑foot‑2 Jamesville native announced Monday she is starting a scholarship at Riverside High School in Martin County that will be awarded to a female senior athlete at her alma mater. Requirements for the scholarship include a minimum 3.0 GPA, acceptance to a two‑year community college or four‑year college or university, and a demonstration of excellent character and sportsmanship with a commitment to academics and community service. Applications must be received by Friday, May 6 at 3 p.m. for the one‑time award, and more information can be found on Jones’ Twitter account @ KayyJ25 or the school’s account @school_knights.

The Sandlot Revival event in Durham drew teams from several states with one goal: to have fun

By Brett Friedlander North State Journal DURHAM — The first sign that last weekend’s Sandlot Revival wasn’t a traditional baseball event was the names of the teams involved. It’s a lineup that featured the likes of the Wilmington-based Port City Pickles, the Nashville Dollys and the Austin Drag, along with the co-host Carolina Reapers and Carolina Kudzu. Then there was the sequence of events that took place in the top of the seventh inning of a game Saturday afternoon. After sliding safely back into second base following a rundown that involved at least five throws and literally the entire Kudzu infield, a Nashville runner called timeout to catch his breath.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Jesse Klietz of the Nashville Dollys stands next to the dugout with his beer at the Durham Athletic Park during Saturday’s Sandlot Revival. Seeing that he required refreshment, a player popped out of the opposing dugout, ran onto the field and handed the runner a beer — which he proceeded to carry with him as he continued around the bases and scored a run. As for the score, a voice over the

PA system between innings at the old Durham Athletic Park told the sizable gathering of friends, family members and fellow players in the stands that it was “about 4-3.” The seventh game of the World Series this was not. But that’s exactly the point.

“Obviously, this is not a competitive men’s baseball league,” said Tyler Northrup, a member of the Raleigh Sandlot and Social Club, and an organizer of the weekend event. “It’s just a group of like-minded people who want to come out and play together, and it’s great. “For a lot of these people, they’re out there rekindling the love and the joy they remember from playing baseball. For some, they’re kindling that joy for the first time. The challenge now is to keep it growing but to keep the culture right.” The sandlot movement began in Austin, Texas, with a group of friends that gathered at a local park, chose sides and began playing pickup games as they did when they were young. The Raleigh club came into being in 2018 when a sandlot player from Austin moved to the area and continued the tradition. It grew steadily through word of mouth. Members of the Raleigh Sandlot and Social Club, which fields the Reapers and Kudzu, get together most weekends when weather permits, and if enough players show up, they’ll have a game. If not, they’ll take some batting and fielding practice. Northrup said that while the group has its share of regulars, anyone that’s interested can get in on the action. See SANDLOT, page B3

Panthers, NC State front and center at NFL Draft Wolfpack offensive tackle Ickey Ekwonu holds out hope of being the top pick; the Panthers weigh their options at No. 6 overall By Shawn Krest North State Journal AFTER WEEKS of evaluations, drama and subterfuge, the NFL Draft has finally arrived. The annual player selection event will hold its first round on Thursday and wrap up the seven-round affair on Friday and Saturday. It appears North Carolina teams at the professional and college levels will be among the major storylines to watch in Thursday night’s opening round. The Carolina Panthers enter the draft with more needs than picks. Carolina has glaring holes at quarterback and offensive line, but the Panthers have just one pick in the first 136 thanks to last offseason’s trade for Sam Darnold, who hasn’t proven to be the team’s long-term answer at quarterback. The Panthers were reportedly in the mix for a trade for former

1 Number of picks the Panthers have in the first 136 picks of this year’s draft Heisman Trophy winner and top overall pick Baker Mayfield. The Cleveland Browns were shopping him after acquiring Deshaun Watson — outbidding the Panthers for the offseason’s top quarterback prize. Reports surfaced earlier this week that the Panthers will not trade for Mayfield before the first round opens on Thursday and may be out of the Mayfield bidding altogether. That means Carolina, which is scheduled to make the sixth pick of the first round, could go in a couple of different directions with their only marquee pick. The consensus among mock drafts heading into the final hours was that the Panthers would use the pick to add a much-needed offensive tackle. The Panthers have

ROGELIO V. SOLIS | AP HPOTO

NC State offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu is expected to be a top-five pick in the NFL Draft and could still garner consideration to be the first overall selection. started 16 different left tackles over the last eight seasons and need to plug in someone who can provide stability and protection for whoever is playing quarterback. CBSSports’ mock draft had the Panthers taking Mississippi State’s Charles Cross, who has been compared to Russell Okung, a two-time Pro Bowl player long before ending his career with the Panthers in 2020. ESPN’s Todd McShay reported that Carolina

was “connected” to Cross, as were the Giants, who select one spot ahead of the Panthers. Most other mocks — including USA Today, Pro Football Focus and Pro Football Talk, had the Panthers taking Alabama’s Evan Neal. The question is whether Neal will be available when the Panthers pick. Some drafts have him going first overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars. See NFL, page B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

WEDNESDAY

4.27.22

TRENDING

Ross Chastain: The TrackHouse Racing driver earned his second Cup Series win of the season and his career Sunday, surging past leader Erik Jones and Kyle Larson on the final lap at Talladega. Larson made his attempt for the winning pass on the final lap and Jones moved for the defensive block. Chastain slipped past the leaders to win for the second time in five races. Chastain and William Byron are the only multiple-race winners a quarter of the way through the Cup season.

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

MLS

Charlotte FC played Colorado to a draw Saturday, coming away with a 0-0 decision on the road that pushed the Rapids’ home regular season unbeaten streak to a team record 20 games. Christian Fuchs, pictured, and Charlotte (3-5-1) had a 13-9 shot advantage — including a 6-0 edge in shots on goal — on the Rapids (2-3-3) but couldn’t get one past Colorado’s William Yarbrough. Charlotte FC next plays this Saturday at Orlando.

BILL KOSTROUN | AP PHOTO

“What’re you gonna do? Cry over it?” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour after goalie Antti Raanta exited Sunday’s game, leaving rookie Pyotr Kochetkov to man the Carolina net.

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI | AP PHOTO

Yeardley Love: The civil trial of a man who was convicted of second-degree murder in the 2010 death of the University of Virginia lacrosse player is set to begin. A wrongful death lawsuit brought by Love’s mother seeks to hold George Huguely V liable in Yeardley’s killing. Huguely and Love were both lacrosse players for the Cavaliers and were in an on-again, off-again dating relationship. The lawsuit seeks $29.5 million in compensatory damages and $1 million in punitive damages. Taylor Jenkins: The Grizzlies coach was fined $15,000 for criticizing the officiating following Game 4 of Memphis’ first‑round playoff series against the Timberwolves. Jenkins made his comments to the media following the Grizzlies’ 119‑118 loss Saturday in Minneapolis, saying he had never seen “a more inconsistent, arrogant officiated game.” He called it “embarrassing” and said he was “at a loss for words.” The series was tied 2-2 heading into Tuesday’s game in Memphis.

NHL

MLB

NICK POTTS | AP PHOTO

“I’ve won every belt there is to win.” Heavyweight Tyson Fury after knocking out Dillian Whyte on Saturday in what the 33-year-old says was the final fight of his 32-0-1 career. PRIME NUMBER

100 Points eclipsed by all eight playoff-bound teams in the NHL’s Eastern Conference, the first time in league history it’s been done by teams in the same conference. The Capitals were the eighth team to reach 100 points when they lost in overtime to the Maple Leafs on Sunday. The Hurricanes, Rangers and Penguins also reached the century mark in the Metropolitan Division, while the Panthers, Maple Leafs, Lightning and Bruins all did in the Atlantic.

BILL KOSTROUN | AP PHOTO

CARLOS OSORIO | AP PHOTO

Hockey Hall of Famer Guy Lafleur, who led the Canadiens to five Stanley Cups in the 1970s, died Friday at age 70. Lafleur registered 518 goals and 728 assists in 14 seasons with Montreal. “The Flower” was a two-time Hart Trophy winner as league MVP, playoff MVP in 1977 and led the NHL in scoring three times.

Tigers designated hitter Miguel Cabrera got his 3,000th career hit Saturday in the first game of a doubleheader when he grounded a first-inning single into right field off Rockies pitcher Antonio Senzatela. The 39-year-old became the 33rd player in major league history and first born in Venezuela to reach the milestone.

NBA

MATT SLOCUM | AP PHOTO

Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes was named NBA Rookie of the Year on Saturday, edging Cleveland’s Evan Mobley. Barnes got 48 first-place votes to Mobley’s 43. Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, the No. 1 pick in the draft, finished third. The No. 4 pick out of Florida State joined Vince Carter (1999) and Damon Stoudamire (1995-96) as Raptors players to be voted Rookie of the Year.

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Keatts overhauls Wolfpack ahead of critical season With several players transferring and a thin recruiting class, the NC State coach is looking to the transfer portal to save his job

improved offensive skillset. But his ability to contribute — let alone carry the team — was anything but guaranteed because of his injury history. Keatts can’t afford to gamble on the availability of a player who’s missed two of the past four seasons because of shoulder problems. Even though Bates has the potential to be an All-American, replacing him with a more reliable veteran big is a safer bet for a coach whose seat is hotter than a steaming cup of coffee on an August afternoon.

By Brett Friedlander North State Journal THESE AREN’T the best of times for NC State men’s basketball fans. As if suffering through the first 20-loss season in school history wasn’t bad enough, the frustration has been compounded by rivals North Carolina and Duke advancing to the Final Four, with the Tar Heels — written off as a disappointment under first-year coach Hubert Davis only a few weeks earlier — playing for a national championship. The angst has only grown with four players entering the NCAA transfer portal and two more choosing to test the waters of the NBA Draft process, leading to a wave of social media GIFs featuring burning dumpsters and sinking ships. Clearly, the situation for the Wolfpack is anything but optimal. But as teams such as Wake Forest and Iowa State proved last season, a quick turnaround is not out of the question under the current rules. The Deacons posted a 19-game improvement, while the Cyclones went from two wins in 2020-21 to 22 on their way to the NCAA’s Sweet 16. Coach Kevin Keatts will likely need a similar reversal of fortune to keep his job after only one

Who’s coming PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

NC State coach Kevin Keatts, pictured at the first round of the ACC Tournament in Brooklyn, is working this offseason to improve the Wolpack’s roster and get off the hot seat. NCAA Tournament appearance in his five seasons in Raleigh. It’s a process that starts with a roster overhaul that’s well underway. Here’s a look at who’s going, who’s coming, who’s staying and who might return as Keatts and the Wolfpack prepare for a pivotal 2022-23 season. Who’s going Center Manny Bates, point guard Cam Hayes, shooting guard Thomas Allen and center Jaylon Gibson all entered the transfer portal. Hayes has already landed at LSU, while Gibson has committed to Division II Winston-Salem State. At face value, the mass exodus has the appearance of a rush to the lifeboats before one of those sink-

ing ships in the internet memes heads down to the bottom. It could just as easily turn out to be addition by subtraction. Hayes failed to build on a promising freshman season in which he started 14 games, averaged 7.8 points per game and led the team in assists. His scoring and assist averages both dipped while his 3-point shooting percentage dropped from .364 to .250 as his confidence and the Keatts’ confidence in him waned. Gibson showed he’s either not ready or not capable of playing at an ACC level, while Allen never lived up to the sharpshooting reputation he brought with him as a transfer from Nebraska. Bates is by far the most significant loss because of his prowess as an elite shot blocker and his vastly

Muggsy Bogues ‘leaned toward strengths’ in unlikely basketball career

Regardless of their ability. “Community, camaraderie and competition, those are our three components,” Northrup said. “It doesn’t matter if you played through college, if you’ve never played or anything in between. It doesn’t matter if you’re a guy or a girl. As long as you’re not a jerk, you’re welcome to play.” Jake McGehee is the embodiment of that attitude. A transgender man who had never played baseball before, he was having the time of his life playing on the same field that the movie “Bull Durham” was filmed, patrolling right field and taking cuts at the plate. “I honestly think they put me out in right field because that’s where I’ll do the least damage,” said McGehee, who grew up participating in cross-country and gymnastics in Asheville while rooting for the local minor league team, the Tourists. “I started playing about halfway through last year and was very nervous about showing up. I’m definitely the weak link, but everyone’s been really nice.” Last weekend’s Sandlot Reviv-

Seabron was one of the few

The remaining roster consists of guard Casey Morsell, who started 20 games and averaged 7.2 points in his first season after transferring from Virginia; big man Ebenezer Dowuona, who performed admirably and improved steadily in Bates’ absence; point guard Breon Pass, a former high school football star who could be primed for a breakthrough now that he’s concentrating solely on basketball; and forward Ernest Ross, who was just starting to come into his own when he suffered a season-ending foot injury in mid-January. A potential X-factor could be 6-foot-8 forward Greg Gantt, a transfer from Providence who missed all last season because of a sports hernia.

said. “He’s meant so much to the Panthers and the state of North Carolina and continues to be an inspiration. He’s a guy who had a big heart and stood for nothing less than excellence.” While Bogues, like Mills, overcame obstacles on his way to athletic success because of his size — or lack of it — he never considered his stature to be a handicap. “I think folks felt like the game was supposed to be meant just for taller or bigger players, and I had a different opinion about that,” he said. “I felt like the game was meant for anybody who has the ability to play it. Being able to have that mindset allowed me to go as far as I did. “Whatever your makeup is, you’ve got to understand your strengths and weaknesses and lean toward your strengths. I knew my strengths and capabilities.” Those talents proved to be the perfect fit for the teams on which he played. Not only did he help Wake Forest advance to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament, but he was also a key member of the Hornets during their rise from expansion team to perennial playoff participant during the mid-to-late 1990s. “We won a lot of games with big people,” said fellow hall of fame inductee Robbins, a Gastonia native who won 713 games and three Division II national championships at Virginia Union, who tried unsuccessfully to recruit Bogues out of high school. “But if I’d have had Muggsy, we’d have won a whole lot more.”

Who could be back

ular players of the original Charlotte Hornets. Bogues and Mills, who coined the Panthers’ motto of “Keep Pounding” during his courageous battle with cancer, are part of an 11-member class of honorees that entered the hall of fame in a ceremony at the Raleigh Convention Center. The others are Baseball Hall of Famer Luke Appling, women’s basketball pioneer Missouri

Arledge, athletic trainer Ronnie Barnes, college and pro basketball star Henry Bibby, golf coach Dan Brooks, football standouts Tory Holt and Timmy Newsome, college basketball coach Dave Robbins and television personality Tom Suiter. Mills, Appling and Arledge were inducted posthumously. Although Bogues was born in Maryland, where he helped Baltimore’s Dunbar High School to

al was the first of its kind in North Carolina. The idea for it was born from a similar event that was held at the Field of Dreams movie site in Iowa 11 days after the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees played their nationally televised game there last summer. Two of the teams that were in Durham, the Dollys and the Tulsa Rumblers, played in that event. “I was like, ‘Hey, this is really cool,’” Northrup said. “So I reached out to one of the guys on the Rumblers and was like, “Do you want to make it a Kevin Costner baseball tour situation?’ And he said, ‘Absolutely.’” There was plenty of red tape to cut through, but thanks to the efforts of Northrup, his group and the actual Durham Bulls baseball team — which owns the historic stadium — the dream was realized. It’s doubtful the next event will be held at the site of another Costner baseball movie, Yankee Stadium. But Northrup, who plays for the Reapers, said that Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field could be a possible alternative. Wherever it’s held, the results will be far less important than the

experience of playing in them. In that respect, the local Revival was a rousing success. Although there were no umpires, there were wood bats, beers on the field and music blaring over the PA system during the games. Routine plays were sometimes anything but routine. And in the case of the Nashville team, multiple players were wearing the No. 95 on their jerseys — an homage to their team’s namesake and her hit movie, “9 to 5.” And while someone was keeping score of the six games that were played over the two days, at least loosely, the scoreboard wasn’t being used. Not that anyone seemed too worried about the results, a fact emphasized by Dollys player Jesse Klietz as he stood beside the third base dugout twirling the end of his handlebar mustache while waiting for his turn to get into the game. “It’s all in fun,” the Nashville bartender said before summing up the event with one sentence while pointing to the Dolly Parton plugs he wore in his earlobes. “Look good, feel good,” he said, “and strike out in style.”

The Carolina Kudzu steal second base on the Nashville Dollys during a Sandlot Revival game on Saturday at Durham Athletic Park.

By Brett Friedlander North State Journal

SANDLOT from page B1

Who is back

a 60-0 record and a No. 1 national ranking during his final two seasons, he became synonymous with North Carolina because of his association with the Deacons and Hornets. After one season with the Washington Bullets, he was taken by Charlotte in the 1988 expansion draft. He went on to play 10 seasons with the team, setting franchise records with 5,557 assists and 1,067 steals. Bogues continues to live in Charlotte, where he serves as the Hornets’ Community Ambassador and works with his own charitable foundation. He said being inducted into the hall of fame of his adopted home state makes the honor all the more special. “It feels great that another state was able to welcome me with open arms,” he said. “To have your career put in a historic place is amazing. It’s something you never dreamt about as a kid. I am humbly honored.” Bogues, whose given name is Tyrone, was originally part of the state hall of fame’s 2021 class. Because he was unable to attend last year’s ceremony due to a scheduling conflict, he delayed his induction until Friday. “It makes more sense to be here in person,” he said. “It’s good to be amongst your peers and the other folks that are being inducted.” That includes Mills, whom Bogues befriended and considers something of a role model because of the way he handled the adversity of his terminal illness. “I miss him dearly,” Bogues

The former Wake Forest and Charlotte Hornets point guard was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame last week

RALEIGH — Muggsy Bogues couldn’t help but chuckle when he heard fellow inductee Sam Mills described as a “diminutive 5-foot-9 linebacker” during a ceremony introducing the newest members of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame on Friday. “If he’s diminutive, what does that make me?” the former Wake Forest and Charlotte Hornets point guard said jokingly of the late Carolina Panthers star. At just 5-foot-3, Bogues is the shortest man ever to play in the NBA. His height, though noteworthy, was anything but a handicap. After a standout career at Wake Forest where he led the ACC in assists and steals twice while setting school records in both categories, he enjoyed a 14year professional career that saw him become one of the most pop-

Keatts has already added two experienced players in 6-foot-8 wing Jack Clark from La Salle and 6-foot-2 guard Jarkel Joiner from Ole Miss. Clark, who has two years of eligibility remaining, averaged 12.0 points and 5.8 rebounds last season while adding 49 assists and a team-leading 35 steals. Joiner, who started his career at Cal State Bakersfield and has one season of eligibility remaining, led the Rebels at 13.2 points per game with 35 3-pointers in 22 games. The Wolfpack also has one incoming freshman in three-star point guard LJ Thomas. That’s a good start, but Keatts has more work left to do — primarily the addition of the aforementioned veteran big. How many more newcomers he’ll need will depend on the draft decisions of Dereon Seabron and Terquavion Smith.

bright spots in an otherwise dismal year for State, earning the ACC’s Most Improved Player award while leading the team in scoring, rebounds, assists and steals. At 6-foot-8 with the ability to be a primary ballhandler, he has the size and athleticism NBA teams love. But he also has work to do on a still-developing perimeter game. Smith, meanwhile, put on a long-range shooting show while setting a freshman school record with 96 3-point baskets. While his stock has continued to rise during offseason workouts, he could use another year of physical maturity to handle the rigors of an 82-game NBA schedule. Both players have the option to return to school and have until 11:59 p.m. on June 1 to make their decisions.

BRETT FRIEDLANDER | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Muggsy Bogues speaks during the induction ceremony for the 2022 class of the North Carlina Sports Hall of Fame.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Raanta, Hurricanes’ Masterton nominee, has unfinished business With a championship ring but not his name on the Stanley Cup, the Finnish goalie is looking forward By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — After several seasons in and out of the lineup with injuries, Antti Raanta wondered if his NHL career was coming to an end. “It’s been so many nagging injuries, so many small injuries the last three, four years,” he said. “So you started to think a little bit like, ‘Is there any point to even going back and playing?’” But after some time following a season in which the veteran goalie played just 12 games, calls started coming in for the unrestricted free agent in late July — including one from the Carolina Hurricanes. “You take a little time off from the hockey,” Raanta said. “You try to forget all the bad things that happened and then start to build toward the new season. Getting that offer from Carolina, that was kind of like where your eyes got that shining feeling.” So after stops in Chicago, New York and Arizona, Raanta agreed to a two-year deal to come to Raleigh and share the goaltending duties with another newcomer, Frederik Andersen. A fresh start with a team considered a Stanley Cup contender was just what the — well, let’s not say who ordered it.

MATT SLOCUM | AP PHOTO

Hurricanes goalie Antti Raanta was selected by the Carolina chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association as a nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy given annually to the player who best demonstrates commitment and dedication to hockey. Raanta’s bounce-back 202122 season led to him being chosen by the Carolina chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association as a nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for his perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. The 32-year-old has fit seamlessly with his new team, from being deemed “Father Finn” by his three younger countrymen to his omnipresent smile and easygoing demeanor. “Great human being,” Hurricanes goalie coach Paul Schonfelder said of Raanta. “Not a

“I think he’s done a hell of a job for us.” Hurricanes goalie coach Paul Schonfelder on Antti Raanta mean bone in his body. He’s been a pleasure to work with. Just collaborating with him, no pushback. He’s great.” And he’s performed in the crease as well. In 27 appearances, Raanta is

Hornets begin search for next coach James Borrego was dismissed following his fourth season in Charlotte By Jesse Deal North State Journal CHARLOTTE — Above a doorway in the Charlotte Hornets’ locker room inside Spectrum Center is a photograph of the box score from the team’s 144117 loss to Indiana in the Play-In Tournament last May. The picture hung there during the 2021-22 campaign, designed to inspire the team after a disappointing end to last season. The memories of that defeat now have some company after the Hornets suffered another crushing loss in a win-or-go-home PlayIn appearance, this time falling 132-103 to the Atlanta Hawks on April 13. Just nine days later, Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak announced that coach James Borrego had been fired after his fourth year with the team. “We will begin the search for our new head coach immediately,” Kupchak noted in an official statement. The firing drew myriad responses from the fan base and around the NBA as some questioned whether the decision was justified given the team’s progression with Borrego at the helm. This past season’s 43-39 record was a 10-win improvement over the previous year and the Hornets’ best finish in Borrego’s four seasons in Charlotte. Additionally, the Hornets had just signed Borrego to a multiyear contract

NFL from page B1

If the Panthers had pulled the trigger on Mayfield, the left tackle appeared to be a no-brainer, but the latest news casts doubt on that plan. Could the Panthers have identified their quarterback of the future in the draft class? The team has given signs that it is enamored with Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett, and NFL. com mocks the Panthers taking him with the sixth pick. Most other drafts have Pickett going closer to pick 20, raising the possibility the Panthers could trade down, take Pickett in a more cost-effective slot, and garner some of the picks they traded away to fill other needs later. That strategy could pay off if Pickett turns out to be a franchise guy later in the first round. If he doesn’t pan out, then Carolina essentially would be trading away a chance to draft a franchise player at sixth.

LUIS M. ALVAREZ | AP PHOTO

Former Lakers coach Frank Vogel could be a target for the Hornets as they look to replace James Borrego, who was fired last week after four seasons in Charlotte. extension in August 2021. Conversely, the Hornets have lost their two Play-In game appearances by a combined 56 points, and it’s never a good look for a coach to follow up a terrible loss in the biggest game of the season with an even worse loss in a similar scenario the following season.

Although Borrego — a longtime protege of San Antonio coaching great Gregg Popovich — developed a reputation of being a likable and classy representative of an NBA franchise, his Hornets never reached the playoffs in a league where postseason victories mean everything. It’s an

Walter Football and ESPN’s Mel Kiper have the Panthers taking Liberty quarterback Malik Willis, who is considered by many to be the top passer in the draft. North Carolina colleges are also entwined with the early-round drama. If the Jaguars take Neal first overall, that would be bad news for NC State tackle Ikem “Ickey” Ekwonu, although the latest round of mock drafts appears to have the Wolfpack big man destined for the five-through-seven range. Fifth to the Giants seems to be the most popular slot for him in the last-minute mock draft updates, although it’s also possible he could fall to the Panthers. UNC’s Sam Howell was expected to be a candidate to go early in the first round, but a disappointing season for the Tar Heels, along with the emergence of Pickett and Willis, has dropped him on most boards. Only NFL.com still has him mocked as a first-rounder — going to the Lions with the last

pick in the round. He seems to be a consensus second-rounder, with Walter Football being most pessimistic on his prospects, dropping him all the way to 52nd overall to the Steelers. Only two area prospects are currently mocked in the third round — Wake Forest center Zach Tom, who Walter Football has going with pick No. 85 to New England, and Fayetteville State cornerback Joshua Williams, who is mocked 102nd to Miami. UNC guard Joshua Ezeudu is expected to go in the fourth round. App State linebacker D’Marco Jackson (fifth), NC State receiver Emeka Emezie (sixth), Duke corner Leonard Johnson (sixth), Lenoir-Rhyne receiver Dareke Young (seventh), ECU corner Ja’Quan McMillan (seventh), Wake receiver Jaquarii Roberson (seventh) and App receiver Jalen Virgil all had their names called in some of the last-minute seven-round mock drafts.

14-5-4 with a .913 save percentage, 2.43 goals-against average and two shutouts. One of those shutouts came in arguably Carolina’s biggest win of the regular season, a 2-0 victory over the Colorado Avalanche in which he made 36 saves. He’s 4-1-2 against teams that have already clinched a playoff berth and has allowed two or fewer goals in 12 of his 23 decisions, giving up more than three goals in regulation just once this season. “I think he’s done a hell of a job for us,” Schonfelder added. And now with Andersen injured, Raanta was poised to have a bigger role in the postseason. Most teams would panic if their No. 1 goaltender went down so close to the end of the regular season, but the Hurricanes have preached all year that they’re confident with either of their goalies backstopping them. Plus, it’s pretty easy to root for Raanta. “He’s a great person. Guys love him,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “And that also is a big part of how you play in front of a guy.” Raanta left Sunday’s game on Long Island with what appeared to be a lower-body injury, but he was able to back up rookie Pyotr Kochetkov on Tuesday in New York and the team is hopeful he will be ready for the postseason. Raanta has never started a playoff game, appearing in relief a total of five times — twice with Arizona and three times in New York. But he’s had postseason success before, winning a championship in Liiga in 2013 that surely encouraged the Blackhawks to sign the undrafted goalie from Rauma, Finland. “We grew together as a team in the whole season,” Raanta said of his final season in Finland with

understatement to say there are still a lot of unmet expectations for a franchise led by talented young players like LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. While Borrego could make the argument that Kupchak and team owner Michael Jordan did little to address the team’s hole at the center position and the lack of defensive rim-stoppers, Charlotte now joins the Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings as teams with a coaching vacancy. At this point, the Hornets have not been officially linked to any potential candidates as the team’s search for its 12th coach in franchise history begins. Kupchak and Jordan will likely try to fill their vacancy with someone who has head coaching experience, and the rumor mill has already churned out some names. Former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel has been popping up as a possible target. Vogel, 48, was fired by the Lakers earlier this month after the team’s disappointing 33-49 season. The defensive-minded coach led the Lakers to an NBA championship in 2020 and has a lifetime 431389 record in 11 combined seasons with Indiana, Orlando and L.A. Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder is another possible name in the running. The 55-year-old has taken the Jazz to the playoffs in six of his eight years in Salt Lake City, and while it’s not guaranteed Utah would part ways with him following the Jazz’s postseason run, he would certainly be a good option for the Hornets. He’s also familiar with North Carolina, playing collegiately at Duke from 1985-89 and serving as an assistant under former Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski from 1995-99.

Assat. “We had some adversity and when we got that done, we just went every day the same. We didn’t change anything, and I think that’s the biggest thing.” He’s also been around a championship team in the NHL, playing 14 games for Chicago in 201415 when the Blackhawks won their most recent Stanley Cup. “It didn’t really matter what happened, they just trusted the process,” Raanta said of the Blackhawks. “They weren’t panicking if we lost the first game of the first round. … You just have to be (about) the team. You can’t have any individuals who are doing something else.” Raanta does have a ring from the Blackhawks’ 2015 title season, but the team did not submit his name to be engraved on the Stanley Cup despite doing so for forward Daniel Carcillo — who, like Raanta, did not play in their postseason run. “I still have the memories,” he said. “You have what it took as a team to get there, and that was huge for me. I was 23 at that time, 24, and I was still like a kid.” It’s given the 32-year-old a desire to reach the pinnacle of the sport again — and take care of some unfinished business with Lord Stanley. “It’s something that, maybe at the time, it was kind of like, ‘Oh, that would have been nice to get your name there.’ “But it’s also been my motivation. I think I said to someone after that, when the name didn’t (go on the Cup), the biggest thing for me was to make sure that someday it will be there.” After years of just trying to be healthy enough to stay on the ice, Raanta can get back to trying to win a Stanley Cup. “This year is a good chance to do that.”

“We will begin the search for our new head coach immediately.” Mitch Kupchak, Hornets general manager Former Golden State Warriors coach Mark Jackson, former Portland Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts, current New Orleans Pelicans coaching adviser Mike D’Antoni and current Golden State Warriors assistant Mike Brown all have previous head coaching experience and are possibilities. With the Hornets in a win-now mode, it seems unlikely the team will follow Borrego with another first-time coach. If Charlotte does decide to go that route, there are a wealth of current NBA assistants who are on the rise, such as Kenny Atkinson (Golden State), Jay Larranaga (LA Clippers), Sam Cassell (Philadelphia), Darvin Ham (Milwaukee) and Sean Sweeney (Dallas). Where the Hornets decide to go from here is a mystery. Even college coaching legends Mike Krzyzewski and Jay Wright — newly retired from Duke and Villanova, respectfully — have been floated as pie-in-the-sky saviors from desperate Hornets fans hoping for some semblance of success. One thing is certain: Charlotte’s head coaching position is a more attractive landing spot than it has been in a long time. With the right leadership and a committed approach to defense, the Hornets have a chance to finally get over the hump and earn their way into the postseason.

PJ WARD-BROWN | AP PHOTO

UNC quarterback Sam Howell (7) and offensive lineman Joshua Ezeudu (75) are both expected to be selected in this week’s NFL Draft, with Howell graded as a second-round pick and Ezeudu predicted to be chosen around the fourth round.

The 3 big questions nob

normal

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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. 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They have made no secret that theycases could be an order of magnitude these fields hiring “grievance studies,” where inclusive Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavirus senior opinion efer notscholarship to repeat. is not so much based upon number of people who have had and n intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and practices for businesses st everyone has finding truth but upon attending to replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. across North Carolina social grievances. Grievance scholars and students, improveadministrators the state’s and other bully departments intothe adhering labor supply, Northto their worldview. The worldview they promote is Jason Carolina Department neither scientific nor rigorous. Grievance EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS of Commerce has studies consist of disciplines such as spearheaded an sociology, anthropology, gender studies, educational campaign COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race on Autism Acceptance studies. In 2017The and department 2018, authors Pluckrose, Month. Lindsay and Boghossian started has provided a submitting bogus academic papers to series of outreach academic journals in cultural, queer, and gender, engagement race, fat and sexuality studies activities designed to determine if they would pass peer “THIS IS THEfallen DAYinto the lord has made, let usthe re seriousness of and the be virus and review accepted for need publication. to educate staff onthe WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home place. I understand Acceptance of dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how who simplyresearch ask that thepeople meaning and orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneas editors sympathetic to their this challenging time of soc n thingsjournal can start getting back to are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”I know that during questions about the data, and whe prevalence offound autism, intersectional or postmodern leftist vision 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 sharing resources for of the world would prove the problem of be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. as However, as aasC a societylow simply must accept without AP PHOTO Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June. They’re treated though we neurodiverse staff and academic standards. and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded me oftelj s us about when it’s safe to begin the Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the government Several of the fake research papers family, and promoting The Twitter application is seen on a digital device, Monday, April 25, 2022, in San Diego. have to be thankful and hopeful for, even in the m alcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning back to norm programs that increase Lenten and pandemic. s, and we have the right to ask those Studies journal published a hoax paper state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government works for employment for ASD Since when did that argued the term was me, my faith is an important part ofstay-atmy dai home orders are in place all bodybuilding over the Easter seasons If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked asFor to the questions. And the longer individuals. questioning andas should be replaced goes too far, itbecould also alienate making. As I celebrated Easter with my family, hem get exclusionary in states, such Michigan, justification for it. And the answers should not vague ones like “we country, and the stricter some ofI tr provide a As“fat part of the with bodybuilding, a fat-inclusive advertisers. government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord “com eling isolated and/or anxious as about must do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting at home f message of cemented rough- “I hope that even my worst politicized performance.” One reviewer campaign, department The deal was affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those 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 hopeweeks that we will the affliction, officials are seeking to reading this ly two after billionwith the comfort we ourselves ar critics remain onwhich Twitter, are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. article and believe it has an important become a aire first revealed a 9% stake in LiNC-IT highlight the once again enjoy 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 because that is what free the platform. Musk said last week program, NC’s first bad thing? events, If you are celebrating the Easter season, I—urge again, not vague answers, but answer journal.” are reliable. can be with those answers and thatsporting he had lined up $46.5 billion speech means.” statewide neurodiversity “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect and be comforted, that ents believability. concerts, in the financing tofamily buy Twitter, put-on this message To date, I’ve gone along with what state has asked and then with details that give theirso statem program that provides Feminism anfamilies, Intersectional Reply to pressure company’s God’sabout example andWe comfort allallthose in need arou at we can to keep as our free citizens mandated that we do, but along theting way I’ve alsoon hadthe questions continue to do wh gatherings, Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was Elon MuskThrough viashould Twitter internships for board to negotiate a deal. this difficult time. faith and by helping o fe. But we should also still continue the data. State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our communities s church said services living in a free accepted for publication Twitter the transaction college students andby Affilia, a confident we will emerge out of this pandemic str cause while reasonable stay-at-home Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is to ask questions about the data, b feminist journal for social workers. The many more wasand unanimously approved by its society were early career autistic Inthose this same spirit, I continue to be inspired the by y shouldpaper also have an expiration sometimes a disturbing tendency among some peopleand to treat are understandable, consisted in part of adate. rewritten Musk lined up he canmeasures increase revenue through board of directors is expecta platform for free speech. after our own professionals. neighbors helping neighbors. d it is not normal. Not inLiNC-IT, any way,Two other $46.5 billionsupposed passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all new to Americans, an in financing Musk said in a joint state- ed to close in 2022, pending reg- subscriptions that give paying temporary (Linking North Carolina In Concord, a shape, highaschool senior named remainhoax vigilant and stay safe, at includingto buy Twitter, papers were published, to do, last I better experience —weTanner to normal though they conspiracy theorists or are who customers ulatory sign-off and thepeople approval or form. So while shoul ment withas Twitter that he are wants putting “Rape Culture and Talent) Queer Performativity a 3-D printer andwe plastic to make fa mfortable withInnovative this so-called “new with sacrifices are sick. money to buy possibly antime ad-free version of shareholders. to make the service thanthemselves don’t care “better if they get or others theeven same shouldn’t get co pressure onchecked. the company’s otherwise at Urban Dog Parks.” This Twitter. Shares Inc. rose ever” new while health careofworkers out of his own home. was developed by the paper’s subject Sincewith when did features questioning government atofall Twitter levels become a bad normal.” over. board to negotiate a deal. was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape during recentbit. TED inmoreinthan 5%society Monday to $51.70 gettingThat rid of automated “spam’’ living NC Business Committee thing? is what free citizens a free were supposed Asked Not onea little paper eventually forced Boghossian, Shares of Twitter rose 5 accounts and making its algo- per share. On April 14, Musk an- terview if there are any limits to for Education, (NCBCE), to do, last I checked. on Monday Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurelypercent out rithms open to the public to in- nounced an offer to buy Twitter his notion of “free speech,” Musk under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah the education and My first concern as we go along in this, ofper course, my family. Staceywould Matthews themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer said Twitter abidehas by also na- written forall $54.20 share.isWhile the I’m crease trust. dState and Legal Insurrection. had figured out what they were doing. workforce nonprofit worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contributor to Re “Free speech is the bedrock stock is up sharply since Musk tional laws that restrict speech papersof accepted made offer, it is well the around the world. Beyond that, suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu)his during the 2009below pandemic, of a functioning democracy, and The Associated Press inSome the Office the for publication in academic journals advocated training he said, he’d be “very reluctant” high of because $77 per share it reached Twitter the digital town square I’ve beenistrying to take extra precautions, all of this brings up Governor. men like dogs and punishing white maleELON MUSK reached an where matters vital to the fu- in February 2021. to delete posts or permanently way too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. NCBCE launched the slavery by college students for historical Musk has described himself as of humanity are debated,” agreement to buy Twitter for ture But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone hasban users who violate the compaLiNC-IT program in 2018 asking them to sit in silence on the floor in roughly $44 billion on Monday, the 50-year-old Musk said, add- a “free-speech absolutist” but is ny’s rules. chains during class and to be expectedpromising to to help bridge the gap It won’t be perfect, Musk adda more lenient touch ing hearts, stars and rocket emo- also known for blocking or dislearn from the discomfort. Other papers between neurodiverse to policing content on the so- jis in a tweet that highlighted the paraging other Twitter users who ed, “but I think we want it to realcelebrated morbid life media platform where he statement. ly have the perception and reality question or disagree with him. job seekers andobesity as a healthycial choice and advocated treating privately In recent weeks, he has pro- that speech is as free as reasonThe more hands-off approach — the world’s richest person — employers searching conducted masturbation as a form of promotes his interests, attacks to content moderation that Musk posed relaxing Twitter content ably possible.” for a strong of sexual violencepipeline against women. Typically, After the deal was announced, critics and opines on a wide range envisions has many users con- restrictions — such as the rules talent. NC Vocational academic journal editors send submitted of issues to more than 83 million cerned that the platform will be- that suspended former President the NAACP released a statement papers out to referees for review. In followers. Rehabilitation provides come more of a haven for dis- Donald Trump’s account — while urging Musk not to allow Trump, recommending acceptance The outspoken Tesla CEO has information, hate speech and ridding the platform of fake the 45th president, back onto the funding for the servicesfor publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing said he wanted to own and pri- bullying, something it has worked “spambot” accounts and shifting platform. and job coaching is praise. vatize Twitter because he thinks hard in recent years to mitigate. away advertising as its primaprovided by the Autism Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran it’s not living up to its potential as Wall Street analysts said if he ry revenue model. Musk believes See TWITTER page B6 Society of North certain grievance studies concepts through the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often Carolina and UNC they appeared in ourCenter. press over the years. TEACCH Autism He found huge increases in the usages Governor Roy of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” Cooperrace proclaimed “critical theory” andApril “whiteness.” as of World All this isAutism being taught to college students, many of whom become primary Month to recognize and school teachers who then andsecondary encourage better indoctrinate our young The Associated Press understanding of people. I doubt whether the coronavirusindividuals with autism. caused financial crunch will give college NEW YORK — Former Presi“Truth Social will be North Carolina, in and university administrators, who are a Donald Trump said Monday dent a voice for me. And that’s crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, particular, has a higher that he has no intention of rejointhe guts and backbone to restore academic prevalence of autism something nobody else ing Twitter even if his account is respectability. Far too often, they get much reinstated following Elon Musk’s than the national can get.” of their political support from campusagreement to buy the social media average. In 2020, the grievance people who are members of giant the for roughly $44 billion. Centerand fordiversity Disease faculty and multicultural Trump told Fox News that he Former President Donald Trump Control released a administrative offices. will instead focus on his own platThe best hope lies with 1boards of form, Truth Social, which has report that identified trustees, thoughofmany serve as yes-men tions, and said he would be “very been mired in problems since its in 39 (2.5%) 8-yearfor the university president. I think that a reluctant” to delete content and launch earlier this year. olds in North Carolina as good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s cautious of permanent bans. “I am not going on Twitter. I autisticLook – significantly catalogs. at the course offerings at After being kicked off social am going to stay on Truth,” Trump than the national ahigher time when college graduates knew how media platforms, Trump launched was quoted telling the network. “I to read, write compute, and makehope Elon buys Twitter because average of 1and in 54 his own social media app and sued them today’s Another helpful Twitter, Facebook and Google’s he’ll make improvements to it and (1.85%). Ofcurricula. the 11 states AP PHOTO tool would be to give careful consideration YouTube, claiming he and othhe is a good man, but I am going to studied, North Carolina to eliminating all classes/majors/minors er conservatives had been wrongbe staying on Truth.” Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally at the Delaware had the second containing the wordhighest “studies,” such as Trump was barred from major County Fairgrounds, Saturday, April 23, 2022, in Delaware, Ohio, to fully censored, even though posts rate of Asian, ASD among women, black or queer studies.social media platforms after the endorse Republican candidates ahead of the Ohio primary on May 3. by conservative commentators are I’d bet that by restoring the traditionaldeadly Jan. 6 insurrection, with 8-year-olds. routinely the most widely shared. academic missionprogram to colleges, they would On Monday, he said he welTwitter citing the “risk of further The LiNC-IT put a serious dent into the COVID-19 comed Musk’s purchase and told press concerns about election inspeech absolutist, had said he incitement of violence.” The deciprovides young budget shortfall. Fox News he didn’t see Twitter as tegrity during the 2020 election wanted to buy and privatize Twitsion denied him the megaphone he people with autism had used to generate media atten- ter because he believed it wasn’t in speeches and statements since his own product’s competition. the opportunity Walter E. Williams to is a professor of tion and speak directly to his fol- living up to its potential as a free leaving office, and it is unclear how “Truth Social will be a voice for economics at George Mason University. gain employment lowers, which had been integral to speech platform. It raised ques- Musk would approach those state- me,” he said. “And that’s someexperience through tions about whether he might re- ments if Trump were ever to re- thing nobody else can get.” his political rise. At a rally in Ohio on Saturday, At the time, the former presi- instate Trump’s account as the turn to the site. paid internships, while In recent weeks, Musk has Trump also urged his supporters dent had roughly 89 million fol- former president lays the groundoffering employers a work for another White House run voiced a number of proposed to join him on Truth Social. lowers on Twitter alone. pipeline of talent often “Go out and sign up now,” he changes for the company, includMusk, the world’s wealthiest in 2024. missed in traditional Trump has continued to ex- ing relaxing its content restric- told them. “Have a lot of fun.” person and a self-described freerecruitment processes.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Energy-thirsty Bitcoin miners seek ways to dump fossil fuels The Associated Press For the week ending 4/22

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

$2,855,217,194 Add Receipts

$78,392,966 Less Disbursements

$111,049,482 Reserved Cash

$125,000,000 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$6,482,033,034 Loan Balance:

$280,300,000

TWITTER from page B5 “Do not allow 45 to return to the platform,” the civil rights organization said in a statement. “Do not allow Twitter to become a petri dish for hate speech or falsehoods that subvert our democracy.” As both candidate and president, Trump made Twitter a powerful megaphone for speaking directly to the public about hot-button issues. He was permanently banned from the service in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol. Advertisers, currently Twitter’s main customers, have also pushed for the stronger content rules Musk has criticized. Keeping them happy requires moderation limiting hate speech so that brands aren’t trying to promote their products next to “calls for genocide,” said Siva Vaidhyanathan, a media studies professor at the University of Virginia. “If Musk either fires or drives away the team at Twitter that’s committed to keeping it clean and making it less hate-filled, he’ll see an immediate drop in user activity,” said Vaidhyanathan. “I think he’s going to find pretty fast that inviting the bigots back in is bad for business.” Some users said Monday that they were planning to quit the platform if Musk took it over. To which he responded on Twitter: “I hope that even my worst critics remain on Twitter, because that is what free speech means.” While Twitter’s user base of more than 200 million remains much smaller than those of rivals such as Facebook and TikTok, the service is popular with celebrities, world leaders, journalists and intellectuals. Musk himself is a prolific tweeter with a following that rivals several pop stars in the ranks of the most popular accounts. Last week, he said in SEC documents that the money would come from Morgan Stanley and other banks, some of it secured by his huge stake in Tesla, the electric-vehicle company he runs. Musk has a fortune of nearly $268 billion, much of which is tied up in Tesla stock and SpaceX, his privately held space company. It’s unclear how much cash Musk holds. Musk began making his fortune in 1999 when he sold Zip2, an online mapping and business directory, to Compaq for $307 million. He used his share to create what would become PayPal, an internet service that bypassed banks and allowed consumers to pay businesses directly. It was sold to eBay for $1.5 billion in 2002. That same year, Musk founded Space Exploration Technologies, or SpaceX, after finding that cost constraints were limiting NASA’s interplanetary travel. The company eventually developed cost-effective reusable rockets. In 2004, Musk was courted to invest in Tesla, then a startup trying to build an electric car. Eventually he became CEO and led the company to astronomical success as the world’s most valuable automaker and largest seller of electric vehicles.

HELENA, Mont. — For the past year a company that “mines” cryptocurrency had what seemed the ideal location for its thousands of power-thirsty computers working around the clock to verify bitcoin transactions: the grounds of a coal-fired power plant in rural Montana. But with the cryptocurrency industry under increasing pressure to rein in the environmental impact of its massive electricity consumption, Marathon Digital Holdings made the decision to pack up its computers, called miners, and relocate them to a wind farm in Texas. “For us, it just came down to the fact that we don’t want to be operating on fossil fuels,” said company CEO Fred Thiel. In the world of bitcoin mining, access to cheap and reliable electricity is everything. But many economists and environmentalists have warned that as the still widely misunderstood digital currency grows in price — and with it popularity — the process of mining that is central to its existence and value is becoming increasingly energy intensive and potentially unsustainable. Bitcoin was was created in 2009 as a new way of paying for things that would not be subject to central banks or government oversight. While it has yet to widely catch on as a method of payment, it has seen its popularity as a speculative investment surge despite volatility that can cause its price to swing wildly. In March 2020, one bitcoin was worth just over $5,000. That surged to a record of more than $67,000 in November 2021 before falling to just over $35,000 in January. Central to bitcoin’s technology is the process through which transactions are verified and then recorded on what’s known as the blockchain. Computers connected to the bitcoin network race to solve complex mathematical calculations that verify the transactions, with the winner earning newly minted bitcoins as a reward. Currently, when a machine solves the puzzle, its owner is rewarded with 6.25 bitcoins — worth about $260,000 total. The system is calibrated to release 6.25 bitcoins every 10 minutes. When bitcoin was first invented it was possible to solve the puzzles using a regular home computer, but the technology was designed so problems become harder to solve as more miners work on them. Those mining today use specialized machines that have no monitors and look more like a high-tech fan than a traditional computer. The amount of energy used by computers to solve the puzzles grows as more comput-

AP PHOTO

The Hardin Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant that is also home to the cryptocurrency “mining” operation Big Horn Data Hub, is seen on April 20, 2022, in Hardin, Mont. ers join the effort and puzzles are made more difficult. Marathon Digital, for example, currently has about 37,000 miners, but hopes to have 199,000 online by early next year, the company said. Determining how much energy the industry uses is difficult because not all mining companies report their use and some operations are mobile, moving storage containers full of miners around the country chasing low-cost power. The Cambridge Bitcoin Electricity Consumption Index estimates bitcoin mining used about 109 terrawatt hours of electricity over the past year — close to the amount used in Virginia in 2020, according to the U.S. Energy Information Center. The current usage rate would work out to 143 TWh over a full year, or about the amount used by Ohio or New York state in 2020. Cambridge’s estimate does not include energy used to mine other cryptocurrencies. A key moment in the debate over bitcoin’s energy use came last spring, when just weeks after Tesla Motors said it was buying $1.5 billion in bitcoin and would also accept the digital currency as payment for electric vehicles, CEO Elon Musk joined critics in calling out the industry’s energy use and said the company would no longer be taking it as payment. Some want the government to

“For us, it just came down to the fact that we don’t want to be operating on fossil fuels.” Marathon Digital Holdings CEO Fred Thiel step in with regulation. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul is being pressured to declare a moratorium on the so-called proof-of-work mining method — the one bitcoin uses — and to deny an air quality permit for a project at a retrofitted coal-fired power plant that runs on natural gas. Some say the solution is to switch from proof-of-work verification to proof-of-stake verification, which is already used by some cryptocurrencies. With proof of stake, verification of digital currency transfers is assigned to computers, rather than having them compete. People or groups that stake more of their cryptocurrency are more likely to get the work — and the reward. While the method uses far less electricity, some critics argue proof-of-stake blockchains are less secure. Some companies in the industry acknowledge there is a problem and are committing to achiev-

Administration expands availability of COVID antiviral pill

“The bottom line is that we want to make this therapeutic available to all Americans.” Dr. Ashish Jha, White House COVID-19 response coordinator

The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden’s administration is taking steps to expand availability of the life-saving COVID-19 antiviral treatment Paxlovid, as it seeks to reassure doctors that there is ample supply for people at high risk of severe illness or death from the virus. Paxlovid, produced by Pfizer, was first approved in December. Supply of the regimen was initially very limited, but as COVID-19 cases across the country have fallen and manufacturing has increased it is now far more abundant. The White House is now moving to raise awareness of the pill and taking steps to make it easier to access. The White House said Tuesday it is stepping up outreach to doctors, letting them know they shouldn’t think twice about prescribing the pill to eligible patients. It is also announcing that the drug will now be distributed directly to pharmacies, in addition to existing distribution channels run by states. That is expected to boost the number of sites from 20,000 to more than 30,000 next week and eventually to 40,000 locations. The administration believes the pharmacy channel, which it used to boost availability of

ing net-zero emissions — adding no greenhouse gases to the atmosphere — from the electricity they use by 2030 by signing onto a Crypto Climate Accord, modeled after the Paris Climate Agreement. “All crypto communities should work together, with urgency, to ensure crypto does not further exacerbate global warming, but instead becomes a net positive contributor to the vital transition to a low carbon global economy,” the accord states. Marathon Digital is one of several companies pinning its hopes on tapping into excess renewable energy from solar and wind farms in Texas. Earlier this month the companies Blockstream Mining and Block, formerly Square, announced they were breaking ground in Texas on a small, offthe-grid mining facility. Companies argue that cryptocurrency mining can provide an economic incentive to build more renewable energy projects and help stabilize power grids. Miners give renewable energy generators a guaranteed customer, making it easier for the projects to get financing and generate power at their full capacity. The mining companies are able to contract for lower-priced energy because “all the energy they use can be shut off and given back to the grid at a moment’s notice,” said Thiel.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden speaks in the Rose Garden of the White House, in Washington, Nov. 19, 2021. COVID-19 vaccines more than a year ago, will similarly make the antiviral pills more available to people. “The bottom line is that we want to make this therapeutic available to all Americans,” Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House COVID-19 response coordinator, said Tuesday on CNN. Paxlovid, when administered within five days of symptoms ap-

pearing, has been proven to bring about a 90% reduction in hospitalizations and deaths among patients most likely to get severe disease. About 350 Americans are now dying each day from the coronavirus, down from more than 2,600 during the height of the omicron wave earlier this year. The U.S. has ordered enough supply of the pills for 20 million people, which is estimated to last

for several more months. The administration has warned that subsequent deliveries are dependent on Congress approving additional COVID-19 response funding. The Food and Drug Administration authorized Pfizer’s drug for adults and children age 12 or older with a positive COVID-19 test and early symptoms who face the highest risk of severe outcomes. That includes older people and those with conditions like obesity and heart disease, though the drug is not recommended for patients with severe kidney or liver problems. The administration is also working to expand the number of test-to-treat sites that provide a one-stop shop for those with COVID-19 to get tested for the virus, consult with a medical professional if they’re positive and fill a prescription for Paxlovid on site. Currently there are 2,200 locations nationwide, and the administration hopes support from the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and pharmacy companies will enable more sites to come online in the coming weeks.

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

2022 Range Rover

PHOTOS COURTESY LAND ROVER

The pinnacle of refinement and luxury What really rich people drive when they aren’t being driven By Jordan Golson North State Journal HEALDSBURG, Calif. — On the wonderful television show Ted Lasso, AFC Richmond owner Rebecca Welton is regularly chauffeured around in a Rolls-Royce Phantom. The cars of Ted Lasso, as with just about everything else on the Apple TV+ show, are perfectly cast. The wise-beyond-his-years footballer Sam Obisanya drives a Tesla, while the insecure Colin (mantra: “I am a strong and capable man”) drives a flashy Lamborghini. Family man Leslie Higgins drives a Volvo wagon, while erstwhile kit man Nate — at least in the first episode — drives an old Mini. But as much as wealthy people like to be chauffeured around, that isn’t always necessary, so they need a car to drive. Naturally, Welton drives a Range Rover, the vehicle of choice for really rich people when driving themselves. The Range Rover is comfortable, luxurious, and effortlessly capable. The new 2022 version — my test car for this week — takes the existing comfort-luxury-capability formula and adds more to each category. The new Range Rover starts north of $105,000 and runs well into the $200K range if you opt for the ultralux SV trim. But the sweet spot is somewhere in the middle, though there are more than enough variants to satisfy the pickiest of clients. The base P400 SE models offer a delightful 3L turbocharged inline-6 that adds a mild hybrid system for 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine, oddly enough,

is my favorite of the two available, and I wish I could opt it even for the higher trim models. Move up to the Autobiography or First Edition, or SV trims, and you get a monstrous 4.4L twin-turbo V8 from BMW, crunching out a wildly unnecessary 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Do you need a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds in your enormous SUV? No, you do not. But here it is anyway. You can choose between four, five, and seven-seat models across standard and long-wheelbase flavors, but the four-seater is special. It’s available with a power-retractable table with a 3D-printed stand that looks like something from ‘60s-era Star Trek, and a power-retractable cupholder. And don’t go asking why anyone would need a power-retractable cupholder either — the world needs whimsy. Power-retractable whimsy. There’s also an optional refriger-

ator with room for a bottle of Dom Perignon (or your preferred 750ml libation) and a pair of chilled crystal wine glasses from British glassmaker Dartington. The fridge, naturally, has a power-retracting door. Actually driving the Range Rover is as delightful as playing with all the toys in the back seats. I took out the First Edition, a $170,000 long-wheelbase option that I’d be overjoyed to have in my driveway, and was immediately blown away by what I didn’t hear. An epic active noise cancellation system uses a set of microphones outside of the car and even in the engine bay and accelerometers to measure wheel vibration. It then sends a canceling signal through the stereo’s 35 speakers (including a pair in each of the four main cabin headrests) to zero out any tire or engine noise that might disturb your journey. It works so well that wind noise

ends up much more noticeable. It feels like driving an EV, but the effect is remarkable at lower speeds when the wind is less of an issue. The Land Rover engineers were very proud of this system but admitted that wind noise was a tougher nut to crack because physics is a fickle beast. Still, I’m all for it. Though I was in the long-wheelbase version, which adds an extra eight inches mostly in rear-seat legroom, the rear-wheel steering made quick work of spirited driving down some Napa Valley backroads. Not many Range Rover owners will attempt the grassy hill climbs we successfully conquered, but rest assured that your Range Rover is more than capable, even with its absurd 23-inch Pirelli street tires. It can ford nearly 3 feet of water and even has a special Wading mode that uses ultrasonic parking sensors to determine the water depth. There’s also a new Air Qual-

ity feature that measures PM2.5 fine particles both inside and outside of the car, and it’ll make recommendations on whether you should wear a mask inside or out. This is clearly aimed at the Chinese market, but it’s nice to know whether the air you’re breathing is clean or not. Aside from the stunning wood and leather, which is plentiful, a 13.1-inch screen running the latest Pivi Pro infotainment system sits prominently in the middle of the dash. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a wide variety of apps and modes. The Terrain Response offroad system is managed here, and it supports Amazon Alexa, too, so you can open your front gate by yelling at your car. And if you’re feeling a bit stressed, have no fear because a hot stone massage function is available to help soothe your tensions away — and yes, it works, and it’s spectacular. There’s an active signal booster that allows your cell phone to get better reception inside the car. The ultraluxe SV edition even has a gear shifter and rotary controls made of ceramic, which is outrageously decadent. There isn’t enough space to get through all the techs and specs of the new Range Rover. If I bought one, I think I’d still be finding new features a year or two into my ownership. A plug-in hybrid version is coming later this year, which I’m very excited to try and should get as much as 60 miles of all-electric range from its 31.8 kWh usable battery. And a full-electric Range Rover is on the way. For years, the Range Rover has been the best way to explore the world in style (as long as you didn’t own it for too long), and the new one takes that to dizzying new heights. Rebecca Welton would be thrilled with this new beast, and if you’re the type to drive yourself around, you will be too.

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

features Callery pears: An invader ‘worse than murder hornets!’ The Associated Press NEW ORLEANS — Stinky but handsome and widely popular landscape trees have spawned aggressive invaders, creating thickets that overwhelm native plants and sport nasty four-inch spikes. Bradford pears and 24 other ornamental trees were developed from Callery pears — a species brought to America a century ago to save ravaged pear orchards. Now, their invasive descendants have been reported in more than 30 states. “Worse than murder hornets!” was the tongue-in-cheek title of a U.S. Department of Agriculture webinar in 2020 about Callery pears including the two dozen thornless ornamental varieties sold since the 1960s. “They’re a real menace,” said Jerrod Carlisle, who discovered that four trees in his yard and one at a neighbor’s had spawned thousands on 50 acres (20 hectares) he was turning from cropland to woods in Otwell, a community of about 400 in southern Indiana. Indiana is among 12 midwestern and western states that have reported invasions, though most are in the South and Northeast. Until 2015, Carlisle rented his field to a farmer. Then he enrolled it in a USDA crop reduction program that paid for planting 29,000 trees as wildlife habitat. Carlisle realized the spiky flowering pears were a problem in 2019. When he cut or mowed them, new sprouts popped up. Trees sprayed with herbicide regrew leaves. Cutting off bark in a circle around the trunk kills most trees. Not these. He and his 17-year-old son have cut down an estimated 1,400 Callery pears, applying herbicide to the

AP PHOTO

Daniel Patterson, a sophomore at John Handley High School, walks home from school below blooming Bradford pear trees on Wednesday, March 30, 2016, in Winchester, Va. stumps. But he figures there are about 1,000 more to go. Without regular maintenance, fields near seed-producing trees can be covered with sprouts within a couple of years, said James “J.T.” Vogt, a scientist at the U.S. Forest Service’s Southern Research Station in Athens, Georgia. “If you mow it, it sprouts and you get a thicket,” he said. “If you burn it, it sprouts, too.” Seedlings only a few months old bear spurs that can punch through tractor tires, said David R. Coyle, an assistant professor in Clemson University’s Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation. The stench wafting from the tree’s billows of white blossoms has been compared to perfume gone wrong, rotting fish, chlorine, and

a cheese sandwich left in a car for a week. The trunks branch off in deep Vs, so after 15 to 20 years they tend to break in storms. But Frank N. Meyer, an agricultural explorer who brought 2,500 species of plants including his namesake Meyer lemon to the USDA in the early 1900s, called the Callery pear wonderful, noting that it survived drought and poor soil. At the time, a bacterial disease called fire blight was devastating U.S. pear orchards, University of Cincinnati researchers Theresa M. Culley and Nicole A. Hardiman wrote in a 2007 BioScience article about the plant’s U.S. history. And, just as researchers had hoped, grafting edible pears onto Callery roots produced blight-resistant fruit trees.

In 1952, USDA workers noticed a spikeless mutant growing among Callery pears started from seed. By grafting its cuttings onto roots of other Callery pears, they cloned an ornamental line they named Bradford pears. That variety was commercially available by 1962, Culley and Hardiman wrote. Other seedlings grew into 24 more ornamental varieties. All are so pretty, hardy and insect-resistant that they were planted nationwide. Bradford and other Callery ornamentals are the third most common trees of 132 species planted along New York City streets -more than 58,000 out of 650,000 as of 2015, the most recent count, said city parks department spokesman Dan Kastanis. But the city is no longer planting them, Kastanis said. Neither is Newport News, Virginia, which got rid of its Bradford pears in 2005. South Carolina, Ohio and cities including South Bend, Indiana, have banned or are banning all commercial varieties of Callery pears. Some states, including Missouri and Alabama, are asking homeowners and landowners to stop planting them or to cut existing ones down and apply herbicide to the stumps. Several, such as North Carolina, offer free native trees to landowners who provide photos proving they have cut down Callery pears on their property. For the USDA, which ordered Meyer to send Callery pear seeds from China, the nasty spurs and marble-sized, inedible fruit were irrelevant. What mattered was that the plant was resistant to fire blight. Genetically identical pears don’t produce seed, so botanists figured

the cloned varieties were safe for ornamental use. In 1971, the USDA even put out a brochure about their care, touting them as trees that bloom several times from spring through fall, thrive in many climates and soils, and don’t attract plant pests. Now, the USDA describes Callery pears as near ubiquitous and has been studying the best way to kill them. Their adaptability is one reason they’re so invasive. And their bug-resistant waxy leaves mean insect-eating birds don’t come near them. “They’re kind of a food desert for a bird,” said Coyle, who leads Clemson’s annual “Bradford pear bounty,” providing native saplings to landowners who have felled their Callery ornamentals. It turned out that, although trees of the same variety cannot produce seeds with each other, two different varieties within a pollinator’s range can produce fruit that squishes on sidewalks and feeds starlings and robins, which spread the seeds widely. In addition, the root stock can send up sprouts. If those aren’t regularly pruned to prevent them from blossoming, they can cross-pollinate with the grafted-on tree to produce fertile seed, noted University of Cincinnati’s Culley. “A wild population can potentially originate from a single landscaping tree that someone plants in their yard,” she said in an email. Carlisle, the Indiana landowner, thinks he’s finally getting ahead of his invasion because native trees planted for reforestation, especially six oak species, are casting enough shade to inhibit Callery seedlings. “I truly believe I’m in eradication mode now,” he said.

Hillary Wasicek and Melissa Gluck, sisters, pose as the characters Dorothy and Blanche at a “Golden Girls” fan convention in Chicago, Friday, April 22, 2022.

AP PHOTO

‘Golden Girls’ shows little age at inaugural fan convention The Associated Press CHICAGO — TV shows about sci-fi or comic book fare usually inspire fan conventions — not a sitcom about four women of a certain age living together in Florida. But sisters Hillary Wasicek, 37, and Melissa Gluck, 43, took this weekend’s inaugural “The Golden Girls” convention at Chicago’s Navy Pier to heart. Both women, who flew from California, spent Friday in elaborate cosplay as the characters of Dorothy and Blanche. The series has always held a special place for them because of its themes of friends becoming family and inclusiveness. Dressing up in wigs and all, which they previously did on a “Golden Girls” cruise, just enhances the convention experience. “It’s a fun expression of showing respect and appreciation for something you admire. It just makes you feel more a part of it,” said Wasicek, who plans to don a

different costume every day. “We just met so many people and heard so many stories. It’s like ‘These are my people.’” For Gluck, meeting other “Golden Girls” buffs gives her “a greater appreciation of the show itself. Now, I’ve gotten my son and husband into it.” Golden-Con: Thank You For Being a Fan, which lasts through Sunday, is giving those who adored the NBC sitcom a chance to come together. More than 2,000 attendees are expected to converge. The show, which ran from 1985-1992, starred Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, Estelle Getty and Betty White — the last remaining “Golden Girl” who died at age 99 in December. Like any “con,” there are panels and Q&As with people who guest-starred or worked behind the scenes. There is a vendors market with booths carrying “Golden Girls” themed candles, masks, T-shirts and other merch. Fans

can snap photos in a recreation of the kitchen where the “girls” always ate cheesecake as well as a giant replica of Sophia’s trademark purse. There are also two separate drag queen groups scheduled to perform tributes. Among the guests are actress Bonnie Bartlett, known for roles on “St. Elsewhere” and “Boy Meets World” (both alongside her husband, actor William Daniels). She is notable to for playing a stuckup new friend of Dorothy’s in a third-season episode. The twotime Emmy winner, 92, however, did not turn her nose up at the idea of a fan convention. “I was running around chasing after Betty Grable and people like that,” Bartlett said. “I was a big fan when I was a kid. So I understand this. My husband doesn’t understand it but I do.” Stan Zimmerman, a TV producer whose second writing job was on the first season, never imagined mingling with fans

nearly 40 years later. Being in an industry where popularity is fickle, he’s not taking it for granted. “So I’ve seen the trajectory of the popularity, but nothing like what is happening now,” Zimmerman said. “It’s so cool to see young people that obviously were not even born when we wrote it know every line.” This “Golden Girls” extravaganza was originally just supposed to be a bar trivia night. Zack Hudson, who works in social services for seniors and is a “hard-core fan,” approached Brad Balof, his friend and fellow fan about staging an event back in November. They ended up planning to book a community center but then interest outside of the state and even the U.S. intensified. “All we did was make one announcement on social media,” Hudson said. “It just kind of escalated from there. So we pivoted a little bit to welcome as many people as we can. And we’re here now.”

Hudson, Balof, a nightclub manager, and Balof’s brother Brendan, who lives in Phoenix and has event planning experience, organized a small army of volunteers and staff. The entire group has been juggling their regular jobs and convention planning for the past several months. Hudson tracked down all the talent for the panels. While they secured some sponsorships, the bulk of Golden-Con’s funding comes from ticket sales. They believe interest was also heightened because “Golden Girls’ devotees were looking for an outlet to continue grieving White. So there is one booth with hundreds of notecards for fans to write about their favorite memories involving the show or what it did for them. “This is a chance to pay that much (respect) to a show that they loved and actresses that made it shine,” Brad Balof said. “One thing that does help the show remain timeless is that there’s enough humor that is not dependent on a specific situation, political or geographic ... It’s just funny.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

New this week: ‘The Offer,’ Kehlani, ‘I Love That for You’ The Associated Press HERE’S A COLLECTION curated by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists of what’s arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week. MOVIES Here’s an offer that will be hard to refuse: Paramount+ is playing host to the Godfather trilogy starting on Thursday. Sure, Francis Ford Coppola’s films aren’t hard to come by (they always seem to be playing somewhere on cable), but this is in conjunction with the first three episodes of their making-of miniseries “The Offer” (see below). So leave the gun, take the cannoli and settle in for 13-some hours of Corleone. Not to be confused with Judd Apatow’s Netflix satire “The Bubble” from last month, the streamer also has an anime called “Bubble,” directed by Tetsurou Araki and written by Gen Urobochi coming on Thursday about a Tokyo that’s been cut off from the rest of the world and overtaken by adventurous young people. Oh, and there’s bubbles that break the laws of gravity. Or, starting May 1, you can have a Nora Ephron night with “When Harry Met Sally” and “You’ve Got Mail,” which will also have you quoting “The Godfather.” If you’re looking for some fresh rom-com fare, Sophie Marceau stars as an empty-nester looking for a fresh start in “I Love America,” a French rom-com coming to Amazon Prime Video on Friday. So she leaves Paris behind for Los Angeles where an old friend and current owner of a popular drag club tries to help her start dating again. And Hulu has an LGBTQ teen rom-com called “Crush,” starring Rowan Blanchard and Auli’i Cravalho, also streaming Friday. MUSIC Future has a new album coming out Friday but hasn’t disclosed its name yet. It’s a follow-up to 2020’s “High Off Life,” and will feature Kanye West, Babyface Ray, Drake and Gunna. Future dropped a video for his newest song “Worst Day” and the artist — just named Best Rapper Alive by GQ magazine — has been busy, appearing on Moneybagg Yo’s single “Hard for the Next,” as well as Drake’s “Certified Lover Boy” cut “Way 2 Sexy.” Future also executive produced West’s latest album “Donda 2,” providing vocals on that project’s

PARAMOUNT+/SHOWTIME/AMAZON PRIME VIDEO VIA AP

This combination of photos shows promotional art for “The Offer,” a series premiering April 28 on Paramount+, “I Love That for You,” a series premiering April 29 on Showtime.

“The Wire” creator David Simon returns to Baltimore, the setting of his triumphant 200208 drama, with “We Own This City,” which he produced with fellow “The Wire” alumni George Pelecanos and Nina K. Noble. The HBO limited series drama-

tizes the corruption that riddled a Baltimore Police Department task force and its impact on the city. Based on Justin Fenton’s nonfiction book of the same title, the series stars Jon Bernthal, Wunmi Mosaku, Jamie Hector and Josh Charles, along with a number of “The Wire” cast members. “We Own This City” debuts Monday. Fans of “The Godfather” are fond of recycling its lines, with “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse” among the most enduring. “The Offer” is the title of a 10-episode Paramount+ series that dramatizes the behind-thescenes story of the film’s making, based on producer Albert S. Ruddy’s experiences. Miles Teller plays Ruddy, with Matthew Goode as studio boss Robert Evans; Dan Fogler as director Francis Ford Coppola, and

Patrick Gallo as Mario Puzo, on whose novel the 1972 film was based. Three episodes of the series, created and written by Michael Tolkin (“The Player”), debut Thursday, followed by weekly episodes on consecutive Thursdays. Showtime’s comedy “I Love That for You” stars former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Vanessa Bayer as Joanna, a woman longing to be a host on a home shopping channel. The series also reflects a chapter of Bayer’s real life, overcoming childhood leukemia, with Joanne trying to escape being tagged as “that cancer girl.” Molly Shannon, another “SNL” alum, co-stars as the channel’s star, with Jenifer Lewis as its founder. “I Love That for You” debuts Friday on streaming and on demand for subscribers, before its on-air cable debut at May 1.

amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner of the property is John F. Jenkins.

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

Said property is commonly known as 112 McCray Street, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

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.

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

“Keep It Burning.” Kehlani’s third album — “blue water road” — drops Friday and it sounds as comfortable and sultry as the singer looks on the album’s cover, photographed on an empty beach with her hair flowing. Highlights include first single “altar,” the sexy duet “more than I should” with Jessie Reyez and “up at night” with Justin Bieber. (The two worked together on “Get Me” on Bieber’s 2020 album “Changes.”) The new album showcases Kehlani’s effortless ability to move from pop, R&B, rap, trance and dance. “To me, the album is like a glass house. It’s light, transparent, and the sun is shining right through it,” she says in a statement. Norah Jones is celebrating her breakthrough album “Come Away With Me” with a 20th anniversary reissue including 22

previously unreleased tracks, including “Hallelujah, I Love Him So.” The 20th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition also includes the original demos that Jones submitted to Blue Note, the complete first session demos she made for the label, and the first version of the album that Jones made at Allaire Studios with producer Craig Street, most of which has never been heard before. The full digital collection will be released Friday.

been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of 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 or other usual place of sale in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, at 10:00A.M. on May 3, 2022, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit:

TELEVISION

TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY 22 SP 55 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by John Jenkins a/k/a John F. Jenkins, in the original amount of $132,387.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for American Security Mortgage Corporation, dated August 10, 2006 and recorded on August 11, 2006 in Book 6946, Page 250, Cabarrus 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

18 SP 592 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Bobby G. Hubbard and Doris G. Hubbard to Stewart Title Guaranty Company, Trustee(s), which was dated December 10, 2004 and recorded on December 15, 2004 in Book 5704 at Page 150 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on March 18, 2005 in Book 5858, Page 60, Cabarrus 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 May 11, 2022 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit:

CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22sp48 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ROBERT L. HILD, JR. AND TIFFANY N. HILD DATED MARCH 27, 2009 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8114 AT PAGE 210 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA *102.21-112041.FC01.202* 21-112041 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22sp48

Being all of Lot 25 of Brandon Ridge Subdivision, Phase II, as shown on plat thereof recorded in Map Book 47, Pages 51 and 52, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, North Carolina, reference to which plat is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 4442 Kellybrook Drive, Concord, NC 28025. Tax ID: 55383864320000 Third party purchasers must pay the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the

Lying in No. 4 Township and being Lots Nos. 25, 26, and 27 in Block G as shown on the map of West Brook, a map of said property being on file in office of the Register of Deeds in Map book 6 page 7. Beginning at an iron stake in the Western edge of Woody Avenue at the front corner of Lots Nos. 27 and 28 in Block G, this beginning point being North 6-19 East 75 feet from the Northwestern corner of the intersection of Maywood Avenue and Woody Avenue, and runs thence North 83-41 West 150 feet with the Northern line of Lot No. 28 to the back corner of Lots Nos. 27 and 28 in the back line of Lot No. 16; thence North 6-19 East 75 feet with the back line of Lots Nos. 27, 26, and 25 to the back corner of Lots Nos. 24 and 25 in the backline of Lot No. 18; thence South 8341 East 150 feet with the Southern line of Lot No. 24 to the front corner of Lots Nos. 24 and 25 in the Western edge of Woody Avenue; thence South 6-19 West 75 feet with the Western edge of Woody Avenue to the point of Beginning, and is the same property conveyed to Robert Lee Griffin by Cecil W McCombs et al by deed dated August 6,1956, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, N.C.

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 Doris G. Hubbard.

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

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

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ROBERT L. HILD, JR. AND TIFFANY N. HILD DATED MARCH 27, 2009 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8114 AT PAGE 210 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA A M H J H J G K H M H J B L F P G KG KG K ALMCPKMHLBIOLEHIABMFLK AMOJODMHGAAJCPKKMNBECK ALIPDLJGPHDHIONCJAFEDK ALPGCDEFOHKGIKJJIIKJCK DLLDLLLLLDLDDLLLLLLDDL

in Book 8114 at Page 210 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.

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 10:30AM on May 9, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Robert L. Hild, Jr. and Tiffany N. Hild, dated March 27, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $118,289.00, and recorded

Address of property: Waterbury Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28311 Tax Parcel ID: 8323 Present Record Owners:

0 5 3 0 -14 Tiffany N. Hild

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Tiffany N. Hild. 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

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 Attorney for Substitute Trustee McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

File No.: 18-10071-FC01

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

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is April 21, 2022. Attorney for the Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 Posted: By: 21-112041

Suite

400

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

B10 TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22 SP 180 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Eduardo M. Gallero, in the original amount of $53,500.00, payable to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., dated April 1, 2014 and recorded on April 3, 2014 in Book 09406, Page 0458, modified by Loan Modification recorded on April 6, 2016 in Book 09836, Page 0397, Cumberland County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness

21 SP 21 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 Chad Edward LeMaire a/k/a Chad Le Maire and Edith LeMaire a/k/a Edith Le Maire to TRSTE, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated August 18, 2006 and recorded on September 12, 2006 in Book 7360 at Page 199, 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

20 SP 155 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 Chad Owens and Kellie Ann Owens to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated September 12, 2017 and recorded on September 14, 2017 in Book 10167 at Page 392, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on May 10, 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:

22 SP 126 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 Charlie Pinero and Blanca E. Pinero to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated July 31, 2017 and recorded on August 1, 2017 in Book 10142 at Page 342, 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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 19SP1211 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DARRELL R BILL DATED MARCH 22, 2007 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7539 AT PAGE 421 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED APRIL 25,2013 AT BOOK 9171, PAGE 821 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA *102.18-100459.FC02.202* NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22SP156 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF SALE IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY WESLEY A. SINCLAIR DATED NOVEMBER 7, 2018 RECORDED IN BOOK 10403 AT PAGE 405 IN THE CUMBERLAND 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 agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will

DAVIDSON AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 16 SP 586 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Anthony Robert Ellington (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Anthony Robert Ellington) to Devan L. Shumway, Trustee(s), dated August 20, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 2192, at Page 444 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,NorthCarolinaandtheholderofthenoteevidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Lexington, Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:30 AM on May 11, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lexington in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 127 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Benjamin Abraham Gonzalaz Herrera and Christopher L. Blackwell (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Benjamin Abraham Gonzalaz Herrera and Christopher L. Blackwell) to Alexis Alan, Trustee(s), dated April 4, 2018, and recorded in Book No. RE 3397, at Page 4115 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

having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00 P.M. on May 10, 2022, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, STATE OF North Carolina, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF UNIT 5, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS STEWARTS CREEK CONDOMINIUMS II, PHASE XXIX, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF SAME DULY RECORDED IN CONDOMINIUM BOOK 3, PAGES 50-56, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY. SUBJECT TO THE RIGHTS, PRIVILEGES, APPURTENANCES, EASEMENTS, OBLIGATIONS, COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS CONTAINED AND DESCRIBED IN THE DECLARATION, AND TOGETHER WITH THE UNDIVIDED FRACTIONAL INTEREST IN THE COMMON AREAS AND FACILITIES AS ESTABLISHED IN THE DECLARATION RECORDED IN BOOK 3383, PAGE 335, AND THE SUPPLEMENTAL DECLARATION RECORDED IN BOOK 3747, PAGE 286, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY.

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on May 11, 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: A PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, WITH A STREET LOCATION ADDRESS OF 2852 CHILLINGWORTH DR; FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28306 CURRENTLY OWNED BY CHAD LEMAIRE AND EDITH LEMAIRE HAVING A TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER OF 0405-73-7220 AND FURTHER DESCRIBED AS LT 52 MEADOWBROOK SEC 1 PT 1 (0.16 AC) AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 86 AT PAGE 85 OF THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2852 Chillingworth Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28306.

Situated in the of Cumberland,

City of Hope Mills, County State of North Carolina.

Being all of Lot 4 as shown on a plat entitled “Roslin Farms, Section 1, (Sheets 1 & 2)” duly recorded in Book of Plats 117, Pages 108 & 109, Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry. Lot 4 above described are conveyed subject to the following Wetlands Notification provision. COMPLIANCE WITH WETLAND REGULATION: In accordance with TITLE 15 NCAC 2H.0500, the following DEED NOTIFICATION applies to each of Lot(s) 4 of the ROSLIN FARMS SECTION ONE (SHEETS 1& 2), Subdivision,BookofPlats117,Pages108&109,Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, prepared by Moorman, Kizer & Reitzel, Inc., Engineers, Planners & Surveyors, dated June 28, 2006, and recorded October 28, 2006, with respect to each of the aforesaid lots being as follows: “In the event any portion of this lot(s) is determined to meet the requirements for designation as a regulatory wetland. Any subsequent fill or alteration of this wetland shall conform to the requirements of the State wetland rules adopted by State of North Carolina in force at the time of the proposed alteration. The intent of this provision is to prevent

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on May 4, 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: The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot 3, in a subdivision known as South Main Section 1 according to a plat of same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 107, Page 98, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5612 Edwin Deaver Dr, Hope Mills, NC 28348. A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent

the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 10:30AM on May 4, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Darrell R Bill, dated March 22, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $678,634.00, and recorded in Book 7539 at Page 421 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: McKinley Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28311

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 1:00 PM on May 5, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Wesley A. Sinclair, dated November 7, 2018 to secure the original principal amount of $56,585.00, and recorded in Book 10403 at Page 405 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: Ln, Hope Mills, NC 28348 Tax Parcel ID: 9983 Present Record Owners: Sinclair

5505 Ackley 0413-94Wesley

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 6800-5 Willowbrook Drive #5, Fayetteville, NC 28314. Tax ID: 9498-42-5631-202 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

additional wetland fill, so the property owner should not assume that a future application for fill would be approved. The property owner shall report the name of the subdivision in any application pertaining to said wetland rules. This covenant is intended to ensure continued compliance with wetland rules adopted by the State North Carolina and therefore benefits made be enforced by the State of North Carolina. This covenant is to run with the land and shall be binding on all parties and all persons claiming under them” Alsoknownas6700ValleyFallsRoad,HopeMills,NC28348 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 6700 Valley Falls Road, Hope Mills, NC 28348. A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

(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 Pinero and wife, Blanca Estela Pinero.

Tax Parcel ID: 4414 Present Record Owners: Bill

0 4 3 9 -3 7Darrell

Ray

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Darrell Ray Bill. 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

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Wesley A. Sinclair. 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

being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at a pk nail set near the center of Parks Road, the point of beginning being the southeast corner of this tract and the southwest corner of Lot Number 1 as shown on unrecorded plat of Rodney B. Owens and SBG Enterprises prepared by David A. Craver, RLS 2857, on February 19, 1988; thence with the approximate center of Parks Road South 65 deg. 26 min. 45 sec. West 20.90 feet to a point; thence South 61 deg. 27 min. 22 sec. West 50.00 feet to a point; thence South 58 deg. 29 min. 10 sec. West 19.10 feet to a PK nail. corner to Lot Number 3; thence with the line of Lot Number 3, North 24 deg. S 1 min. 05 sec. West crossing an iron set at 30.20 feet and a second iron set at 255.93 feet and continuing a total distance of 286.07 feet to a PK nail set near the center of Hill Top Road; thence with the approximate center of Hill Top Road. North 59 deg. 38 min. 50 sec. East 6.79 feet to a point; thence continuing with the approximate center of Hill Top Road, North 52 deg. 56 min. 25 East 84.93 feet to a PK nail set. corner of Lot Number 1; thence with the line of Lot Number 1, South 24 deg. 51 min. 05 sec. East crossing an iron set at 30.69 feet and a second iron set at 270.76 feet and continuing a total distance of 299.35 feet to the point and place of beginning, the same being and containing .600 acre, more or less, and being Lot Number 2 as shown on unrecorded plat of Rodney B. Owens and SBG Enterprises dated February 19, 1988, and prepared by David A. Craver, RLS 2857, and revised December 2, 1988. Together with improvements located

thereon; said property being located at 276 Lake Drive #10, Lexington, North Carolina.

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

in Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:15 PM on May 4, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot Number Six (6) as shown on the map of Lynhaven Place, which said map is duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, in Plat Book 16, Page 175, to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description of said property. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 414 Lynhaven Drive, Winston Salem, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). 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

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.

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 the Heirs/Devisees of Eduardo M. Gallero a/k/a Eduardo Marling Gallero. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee 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.

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.

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.

File No.: 11-02814-FC01

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 Chad Owens and Kellie Ann Owens. 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)

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

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

(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.: 20-00435-FC01

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.

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.

File No.: 22-01664-FC01

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

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 March 21, 2022. Attorney for the Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 Posted: By:

Suite

400

18-100459

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.

Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 7543-9433

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is 4th day of April, 2022. Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for

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.

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 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: 6544 - 24924

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC.

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: 1190632 - 19384

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

B11

TAKE NOTICE

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 92 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Darlene Faye Hart (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Darlene Faye Hart) to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), dated March 31, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 4281, at Page 529 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

RANDOLPH

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 22sp48 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY SHELBY J. THOMPSON AND MIRANDA B. THOMPSON DATED JUNE 28, 2018 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2603 AT PAGE 1175 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA *102.22-112489.FC01.202* 22-112489 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 22sp48 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY SHELBY J. THOMPSON AND MIRANDA B. THOMPSON DATED JUNE 28, 2018

the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on May 5, 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 3, Block E, as shown on that plat entitled, “Section II Long Acres Subdivision” prepared by L.T. Mercer, Registered Surveyor, dated September 10, 1962, and recorded on October 19, 1962 in Map Book 7, Page 75, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1205 Ormandy Avenue, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers,

directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners has called a special meeting for Monday, May 9, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., in the Historic Courthouse Meeting Room, 145 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC, regarding the following zoning matters:

REQUEST FOR AN APPEAL TO THE DECISION MADE BY THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PLANNING BOARD

acres located at 6995 US Hwy 220 S, Richland Township, Tax ID #7666422421 and 7666426428, Primary Growth Area, from LI-Light Industrial to HI-CD-Heavy Industrial -Conditional District. The proposed Conditional Zoning District would specifically allow the operation of a power Screen to crush concrete and asphalt as per the site plan.

Dana Crisco, Clerk Randolph County Board of Commissioners

AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2603 AT PAGE 1175 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA A M H J H J G K G M H J B L F O H J H I G K ALMCPLMNDBIOLEHEDKNNNK AMOJODMHGAAJBNOOIAIHCK AHIPDLJGOHLBKMJFIBPAFK ALPGDDFNEJPDEJCPEFFPGK DLLDDDDLLDLDDLDLLLLDDL

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 7 8 7 Windcrest Rd, Asheboro, NC 27203 Tax Parcel ID: 52849 Present Record Owners: Shelby J. Thompson and Miranda B. Thompson The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Shelby J. Thompson and Miranda B. Thompson. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens

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

the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is April 13, 2022. Attorney for the Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 Posted: By: 22-112489

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 1:00PM on May 3, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Shelby J. Thompson and Miranda B. Thompson, dated June 28, 2018 to secure the original principal amount of $126,653.00, and recorded in Book 2603 at Page 1175 of the Randolph County Public Registry.

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 19SP120

BOOK 1909 AT PAGE 1303 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA A M H J H J G L H M H J B L F P G KG LG K ALMCOJNBHNIODMPABNILNK AMOFOLMHGAAJDNPBPNCGCK ADIPDLJGNFAKJBFPKLEEDK ALPGCBMDMJHMLEFPIKJPOK DLLDLDLLLDLDDLLLLLLDDL

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY THOMAS W. MCGEE AND MITZI B. MCGEE DATED JANUARY 31, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1909 AT PAGE 1303 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA *102.07-95543.FC02.202* 07-95543 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 19SP120 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY THOMAS W. MCGEE AND MITZI B. MCGEE DATED JANUARY 31, 2005 AND RECORDED IN

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 11:00AM on May 4, 2022, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Thomas W. McGee and Mitzi B. McGee, dated January 31, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $207,000.00, and recorded in Book 1909 at

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 46 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Milessa H. Edwards and Billy W. Edwards (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Billy W. Edwards and Milessa H. Edwards) to Countrywide Title Corporation, Trustee(s), dated June 24, 2002, and recorded in Book No. 1770, at Page 2808 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds 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 May 10, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder

WAKE AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 454 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Elizabeth Guglielmo-Mendez and Rafael Celestino Mendez (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Elizabeth GuglielmoMendez and Rafael Celestino Mendez) to Timothy J. Colgan, Trustee(s), dated April 18, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 015239, at Page 02732 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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 1689 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kristy Aguilar and Jeffrey Aguilar (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jeffrey J. Aguilar and Kristy D. Aguilar) to Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated May 17, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 016785, at Page 01936 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on May 9, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder

19 SP 3036 AMENDED 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 Joyce M. Young to Investors Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated May 1, 2006 and recorded on May 5, 2006 in Book 11944 at Page 747, 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 May 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM, and will

21 SP 799 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 L. Kenneth Howard and Kimberly D. Davis to Law Office of Henry Pleasant, Trustee(s), which was dated May 24, 1999 and recorded on June 1, 1999 in Book 8325 at Page 2158, 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 May 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM, and will

for cash the following real estate situated in Thomasville in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot No. 14 of Misty Acres, as recorded in Plat Book 25, Page 38, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Randolph County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 265 Misty Drive, Thomasville, 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

Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on May 2, 2022 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Willow Spring in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 9, Stameys Walk Cluster Unit Development Subdivision, as recorded in Book of Maps 2005, Pages 258261, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8104 Hartwood Glen Circle, Willow Spring, 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

for cash the following real estate situated in Willow Spring in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot of parcel of land situated in the City of Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:Being all of Lot 20 as shown on map entitled “Phase Two, Kennebec Farm Subdivision” by Ashworth Land Surveying and recorded in Book of Maps 2005, Pages 919-921, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7805 Heavenly Place, Willow Spring, North Carolina.Being the same premises that was conveyed unto Jeffrey J. Aguilar and Spouse, Kristy D. Aguilar by North Carolina General Warranty Deed from Comfort Homes, Inc., dated March 10th, 2006, and recorded March 10th, 2006, at Deed Book 011854 and Deed Page 00529 in the records of the Wake County Recorder’s Office, State of North Carolina.Parcel ID(s): 0331972 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

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 1, UMSTEAD GLEN SUBDIVISION AS SHOWN ON PLAT ENTITLED “RECOMBINATION, RIGHT-OF-WAY DEDICATION AND SUBDIVISION PLAT OF UMSTEAD GLEN SUBDIVISION” DATED FEBRUARY 27, 2000, PREPARED BY G.R. BROWN SURVEYING AND THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS 2000, PAGE 1128, WAKE COUNTY REGISTRY.

DAVID BRIAN MOODY, Asheboro, NC, has requested an appeal for the decision made by the Randolph County Planning Board to deny his rezoning request for 3.94

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

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,

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

Said property is commonly known as 7131 Ebenezer Church Road, Raleigh, NC 27612.

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit:

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 Rudy C. Howard and wife, Nancy Thompson Howard, a onehalf undivided interest; Felecia Howard Hipp, a one-fourth undivided interest and Melanie Howard Ernst, a one-fourth undivided interest.

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

BEING ALL OF LOT 13, OF THE GRAHAM HOWARD PROPERTY, AS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS 1996 PAGE 184 OF THE WAKE COUNTY REGISTRY. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2126 ANGIER RD, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526. 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

400

Page 1303 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. 3898 Nelson Address of property: Rd, Sophia, NC 27350 7725360449 Tax Parcel ID: Present Record Owners: Thomas W. McGee The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Thomas W. McGee. 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

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

Suite

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 March 22, 2022. Attorney for the Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 Posted: By: 07-95543

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,

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: 6216 - 23976

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC.

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 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: 1264152 - 10266

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: 1279321 - 10820

File No.: 19-15485-FC01

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.

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.: 21-02733-FC01

B12

North State Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

pen & paper pursuits

sudoku

solutions From April 20, 2022

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 9 | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2022 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Randolph record

Make it count Southwestern Randolph’s Molly Strider hits a run-scoring double in the top of the second inning off Eastern Randolph’s Skylar Pugh during a PAC game last week at Eastern Randolph. The Cougars won 4-0. For more local sports, see Page 5.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COUNTY NEWS Budd says Biden admin dismantling security of border

Randolph Record staff

U.S. Rep. Ted Budd (RNC) joined over 50 House members Monday in a letter calling out Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for what the group called the Biden administration’s failure to address the crisis on the southern border. “The Biden administration’s complete and utter disregard for law and order on the southern border is a dereliction of duty,” said Budd. “This historic crisis can be solved if we go back to the policies that worked under President Trump.”

Rural grants will support new jobs The City of Archdale is set to receive $85,000 from the state to support the renovation of a 58,101-squarefoot building in Archdale. The building is occupied by Aeolus Filter Corporation, a manufacturer of filtration products, primarily for the HVAC industry. The project is expected to create 17 jobs, with an investment of $1,735,000 by the company. A $140,000 grant will support the 9,600-squarefoot expansion of a building in Ramseur, occupied by Kraftsman, Inc. The company manufactures and sells open trailers, from single-axle utility trailers to flatbed equipment trailers. The project is expected to create 20 jobs, with an investment of $250,063 by the company.

20177 52016 $1.00

Technimark to expand, create more jobs in Asheboro

ASHEBORO — More jobs should be coming to Randolph County. Technimark, LLC, a manufacturing solutions provider for the healthcare and consumer packaging markets, will expand its healthcare production operations in Asheboro to create 220 jobs, Gov. Roy Cooper announced last week. The company will invest $62 million to support growth in its healthcare and consumer packaging markets. “We’re excited to expand our

healthcare manufacturing capabilities at our Asheboro headquarters,” said Brad Wellington, Technimark’s president and CEO. “The commitment and support we have received from the State of North Carolina has been invaluable to making this expansion a reality, allowing us to create more well-paid jobs for the dedicated workforce in Randolph and surrounding counties.” Although wages will vary depending on job role, the average salary for all the new positions will be $44,290, according to information from the governor’s

office. The current average wage in Randolph County is $40,552. The community will see more than $9.5 million enter its economy from the project’s payroll impact, each and every year. “Technimark is a valued employer in our region, and we welcome these additional jobs to our community,” state Sen. David Craven said. “The company is also making a significant capital investment in the region, bringing economic benefits our community will enjoy for years to come. I would personally like to thank Brad Wellington and his team for their commitment to

Randolph County and our community.” Technimark, headquartered in Asheboro, is a global manufacturing provider for the healthcare, consumer packaging and specialty industrial markets. Technimark specializes in precision injection molding, value-added assembly, and full supply chain services. Technimark provides clients with customized, end-to-end packaging solutions that improve quality, reduce risk, lower costs and speed products to market. With facilities in the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, and China, Technimark delivers high-quality products worldwide. Technimark’s project in Randolph County will help the company meet supply opportunities from medical device companies that require U.S. manufacSee TECHNIMARK, page 6

Community College report shows major economic impact North State Journal staff RALEIGH — A comprehensive new economic impact analysis finds that North Carolina’s 58 Community Colleges have a $19 billion annual impact on the state’s economy and supports more than 320,000 jobs across the state. The economic impact study found for every dollar the state invests in North Carolina’s Community Colleges, the state gains $7.50 in added incomes and social savings. The colleges generate nearly double the revenue from what they take in from the taxpayers. For every $1 the state invests, taxpayers get $1.90 back in added tax revenues and public sector savings, according to the study. “The Community College System serves over half a million students each year and fuels North Carolina’s job engine,” said system president Thomas Stith. “Our strong partnerships with business and industry in our communities and around the globe are creating a demand for our community colleges to provide the unique and skilled workforce needed, and we are leading economic recovery efforts in North Carolina.”

The report showed over $100 million in annual economic impact from Randolph Community College.

new skills take advantage of the incredible opportunities that their local community college provides.” The report also says that community college graduates have higher incomes that contribute to a larger tax base and a growing state. For example, students who graduate with an associate degree from a N.C. community college will see an increase in earnings of up to $7,000 or more each year compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent. If the student builds upon their associate degree to then earn a bachelor’s degree, their annual income also doubles on average. The report also assesses the economic impact of five programs that each college offers on the area economy, the return on investment for students, and the benefits generated for N.C. taxpayers. In Randolph County, the report showed over $100 million in annual economic impact from Randolph Community College. Local programs measure in the report included radiography, computer-integrated machining, basic law enforcement training, agri-

The report was an exhaustive undertaking supported by the North Carolina General Assembly, leaders from the N.C. Association of Community College Presidents, N.C. State’s Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research, and national research leader Emsi Burning Glass. “It’s been a privilege to have worked and supported our education partners on this study from the beginning as I was confident the results would blow us away. And it did. I think it’s fair to say not many government-funded programs generate more revenue than they take in from taxpayers,” said State Sen. Deanna Ballard (R-Watauga), who chairs the Senate Education Committee. “It’s critical that our high school graduates and adults looking to gain See RCC, page 6

Randolph Record for Wednesday, July 21, 2021

2 22

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022 Randolph Record for Wednesday, July 7, 2021

WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY

7.21.21 7.7.21 4.27.22 #3

WEEKLY FORECAST

Archdale man claims lottery prize

WEEKLY FORECAST

“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

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Published Frank Hill each Wednesday by Frank Hill North State Media LLC

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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 APRIL 27

♦ Jonathan Edward Ferree, 50, of Black Mountain, formerly of Asheboro, died July 11, 2021.

HI 70

♦ Mildred Mae Cozart Poole, LOW 44 age 85, of Asheboro, died July PRECIP 2% See OBITS, page 7 9, 2021.

THURSDAY APRIL 28 See OBITS, page 7

HI 70 LOW 48 PRECIP 1%

Randolph Record staff

There are six unclaimed priz- required state and federal tax es in that mix among the $10 withholdings he had $426,063, FRIDAY SATURDAY WEDNESDAY SUNDAY according to the NC Lottery. Malcolm Buchanan ofTHURSDAY Arch- scratch-off tickets. FRIDAY SATURDAY MONDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY SUNDAY JULY 23 Meanwhile, a Greensboro Buchanan purchased his dale turned up with the $1 milJULY 24 JULY 21 JULY 22 JULY 25 5 JULY 2 JULY 3 JULY JUNE 30 JULY 1 JULY 4 lion prize through the North ticket from Speedway on West woman was the winner of a HI78° in High 86° $1 million LiFairfield Road Lottery. HI 88° HI HI 91° 88° 86° HI HI89°Point.81°HI similar HI 88° HI Carolina 91° HI 84° HI prize. 59, LO cashed in 69° a 65° his prize, 62° heLO cette Buchanan became the LOUpon claiming 66° LO68° LO LO LO 70° 67° LO 70° LO Griffin, LO 69° 62° LO second 67° $10PRECIP Jumbo BucksPRECIP ticket had to choose an annuwinner of the new sweepstakes. PRECIP 57% between PRECIP 43% PRECIPthat 17% PRECIP 15% PRECIP 20% PRECIP 24% 24% PRECIP15% 13% PRECIPPRECIP 5% 32% The 50X The Cash game ity of $50,000 across 20 years was bought at Gate City Exlaunched in February with or a lump sum of $600,000. He press. She also chose the lumpeight top prizes of $1 million. chose the lump sum, and after sum option.

Randolph

Guide

RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

DEATH NOTICES

MONDAY TUESDAY

JULY JULY 26 6

TUESDAY

JULY 27

The Randolph is a HI 87° GuideHI HI 89° quick look at what’s going LO 67° LO 69° LO PRECIP 24% onPRECIP in Randolph 24% County. PRECIP

88° 69° 24%

April 22 – May 8

RCC pushes more MEETfor THE STAFFstudents as numbers lag

♦ Betty Charles Cochran, Christian, age 92 of Troy, died April 23, 2022 at her residence.

“Unnecessary Farce”

age 70 of Denton, died Friday, April 22, 2022 at Hinkle Hospice House in Lexington.

20, 2022, at his home.

7:30pm & 2:30pm

♦ Frederick Blaine Moore Sr, age Two motel rooms. Three 72 of Asheboro, died Wednesday, crooks. Eight doors. Go! Bob Sutton Aprilsion, 20, 2022 at High Point ♦ Mary Elizabeth ♦By Vernon Russell Oldham, age 78 there’s enrollment of 915. before those Harmon classes start. Come on a wild ride of Randolph Record Richardson, age said 90 of Asheboro, of Siler City, died April 23, 2022 That’s off slightly from the usual Williams there’s an ef-Regional. mistaken identities, sharp died Thursday, April 21, 2022 at at Genesis HealthCare. “There has never been a fort to bolster enrollment. He cit- number that ranges up to 1,000, ♦ Martha Ellen “Marti” Jessup, age Clapp’s Convalescent Nursing dialogue and show-stopping ASHEBORO — Enrollment ed the RCC Commitment Grant, Williams said. better opportunity to attend 67 of Ramseur, died on April 19, ♦ Roger Brantley Smith, Sr., age 87 in Asheboro. Traditional enrollment numa program designed as a funding at Randolph Community Col- Home physical comedy as two 2022 at Randolph Health. of Asheboro, died Saturday, April and nottheir havejobs to worry lege isn’t likely to bounce back to mechanism to fill the gap that’s bers have flattened, but it’s the copsRCC try to save ♦ Mark Preston Ingold, age 43 of 23, 2022, at his home. number of high school students pre-pandemic levels right away not covered by federal or state aid ♦ Misael Aviles - Hernandez, age 38 about how pay for it.” by cracking theto biggest Sophia, died Wednesday, April in programs designed for dual enschool pointing to students. of Asheboro, died April 16, 2022. ♦despite BarbaraaJean Pageofficial Cranford, case this small town has

PJ Ward-Brown Matt Lauren Frank Cory “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

rollment that has dropped, president Dr. Robert everRCC seen. This hilarious “We’re just not seeing the level comedy deftly makes a of engagement that we had seen,” Shackleford Jr. WEEKLY CRIME LOG for student services at RCC, said a to pay for it,” RCC president Dr. Williams said. place for itself in the grand RCC Lawrence held a one-week break RobertatShackleford Jr.and said. “We in Andew high school students in 4/19/22, ♦ Clark, Donald Canoy Farm Rd comedic tradition of farces. ♦decline Link, Brett (M, 35), earlier this month amid the summeet students exactly where they dual enrollment has been the big(M, 52), Arrested on charge Foushee Rd. Arrested on charge of Possess Produced by Rhino Leap mer semester, which began May are and help them go as far as they gest reason forReap a dip. of Misdemeanor Larceny, Schedule II CS, Lamps Productions and performed 24 andof Stolen concludes July 26. Late can possibly go.”Joshua (M, “Overall, we’re still seeing James Possession Goods, Violation, Allow Fictitous Reg a de-♦ Thompson, at the historic Sunset registration for the fall semester Beginning with the fall semescline in enrollment comparing to 32), Arrested on charge of Assault Uttering Forged Instrument, two Plate, DWLR, Resisting Public runs through Aug. 10, with classter, qualifying full-time students previous years prior to the panon a Female, Communicating Theatre. counts of Forgery of Instrument, Officer, Injury to Personal es beginning Aug. 16. will be eligible for up to $1,000 demic,” Williams said. “I don’t Threats, on 4/19/22, at 2038 Obtain Property False Pretense, Property, Failure to Appear on Still at dealing with adjustments per semester. know ifFailure we’ll get to numbers we’ve Talmer Wright Rd. on 4/18/22, 5532 Davis Felony, to Appear on made That makes attending RCC seen in previous fall semesters. Country Rd.because of the coronavirus Misdemean, on 4/21/22, at 3159 … ♦ Bulla, Lindsay Worth (F, 27), We’re Hooverreaching Hill Rd. out to every stu- the most enticing from a finan- pandemic, not all 2021 fall semeson charge ofin Breaking ter classes willEulogio be in person. Some cial standpoint the 16or years dent we can in every way we can.” Arrested ♦ Martinez, Alejandro (M, Entering, Injury to Real Property, will useonacharge hybrid model with 11th a Williams has been at the school, A fall Darcel semester at the(M, two-year 19), Arrested of Assault ♦ Murphy, Nathaniel 35), Annual Mountain on 4/18/22, at 748 McDermott mixture of face-to-faces sessions he said. He previously worked in school in Asheboro would often on a Female, on 4/18/22, at 402 Arrested on charge of four counts View Church Car Show andDr.virtual sessions. Many classhave 2,600oftoFirearm 3,000by students Balford Possession Felon, en- St.RCC’s financial aid office. “There’s never a better time to es provide students with options rolled. the beginning of this PossessAt Marijuana up to 1/2 oz, 7am ♦ Hodge, Kristi Jo Moss (F, 53), ♦ Stone, Aline (F, 47), onAngela how to attend and participate, week, that number on 4/20/22, at 10167stood N Mainat St.about go back to college,” he said. charge of Larceny Arrested on charge Williams said.of Assault For on the current summer ses1,900 with about a month to go Arrested The Mountain View Church

May 7

♦ Pugh, Amanda Lynn (F, 36), WEEKLY CRIME LOG Arrested on charge of Possession of Stolen Denishia Goods, on 4/19/22, at ♦ Williams, Lorren 3969 US HWY (B /F/30) Arrest311. on chrg of

of Motor Vehicle, on 4/18/22, at RCJ.

with a Deadly Weapon, Failure to Appear on Misdemean, on 4/17/22, at 6222 Heathwood Dr.

of Asheboro will host its annual car show at 1530 ♦ Julian, ROger Dale (M, 52), Mountain View Church Rd, Arrested on charge of DV ♦ McCall, Jeffery Byron (M, 46), WEEKLY CRIME LOG Asheboro, NC 27205. The 1) Pwimsd Marijuana (F), 2) Protective Order Viol (M), Arrested on charge of Second ♦ Maintain Pinkston,Veh/dwell/place Angel Dawn (F, Cs event is open to the public Communicating Threats, on Degree Trespass, on 4/17/22, at 36), Arrested on charge of (f) (F), 3) Possess X from 7am to 1pm. 4/18/22, at 2108 Hopewell ♦ Whitehead, George Alan (M, 52), 176 E.Rd. Salisbury St, Asheboro, onand runs Arrest on charge of Resisting ♦Extradition/Fugitive Boggs, Matthew Harrison (M, 5320 Poole Oth State, on39),

Rd.Officer, 321 Kings Ridge Rd, Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor 07/13/2021. Public Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor Friends Possession of Schedule IV CS, Randleman, on 07/14/2021. Larceny, at 2587 Wayne White Rd, ♦ Millikan, Bobby Wayne (M, 33), Possession of Stolen motor Pleasant Garden, on 07/14/2021. Arrest on charge of Assault on a ♦ Hazelwood, Elizabeth (F, 44), vehicle, imporoper use of a dealer Female, at 8300 Curtis Power Rd, Arrest on chage of Misdemeanor ♦ Bolton McKee, James Henry tag, failure to deliver title, failure to Bennett, NC, on 07/14/2021. Larceny, at Hoover Hill Rd/Slick (M, 47), Arrest on charge of appear on felony, at I-85 Exit 111, Rodk Mtn, on 07/14/2021. Possession of Stolen Goods, at on 07/13/2021. ♦ Passmore, Casey Lynn, Arrest on 6469 Clyde King Rd, Seagrove, on charge of possession of marijuana ♦ Cheek, Helenia Spinks (F, 64), ♦ Lynch, Detrick Lamont (M, 40), 07/15/2021. up to 1/2 oz., at Randolph Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor Arrest on charge of Assault by Courthouse, on 7/13/2021. Possession of Schedule VI CS, ♦ Pugh, Robert Daniel (M, 39), pointing a gun, Discharging a Possessiong of Stolen Motor Arrest on charge of Simple firearm to cause fear, Reckless ♦ Roark, Justin Steven (M, 30), Vehicle, at I-85 Exit 111, on Assault (M), at 139 Drum St, driving to endanger, Seagrove, on Arrest on charge of Possession 07/13/2021. Asheboro, on 07/14/2021. 07/12/2021. Endorsed by Lt. Governor Mark Robinson of Meth, Possession with intent to manufacture, sell or distribute ♦ McQueen, James Allen Jr (M, 35), ♦ Richardson, Erwin Quint Jr (M, ♦ Helms, Chad Lee (M, 37), Arrest LIFE LONG CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICAN ENDORSED BY LT. GOVERNOR MARK ROBINSON heroin, Simple possession of Arrest on charge of Possession 31), Arrest on charges of Felony on charge of Felony Sexual Schedule II, III, IV CS, Maintaining of Marijuana up to 1/2 oz., Larceny and Possession of Stolen Exploitation of a minor in the Place, Possession of Drug Possession of drug paraphernalia, Goods, at 5471 Needhams Trail, second degree (10 counts), 727 Paraphernalia, at 1029 High Point Failure to appeal on felony, failure Seagrove, on 07/14/2021. McDowell Rd, Asheboro, NC, on on 7/13/2021. at Veteran prosecutor, 22Rd, years with over 120 superior court trials to date Follow Chris on Facebook at: to appear on misdemeanor, 07/12/2021. ♦ Seibert, Sarah Elizabeth (F, 32), Parrish www.facebook.com/Chris Professor of civil and criminal law (over 18 years) and 3 time published author for Superior Court Judge

Vote Chris Vote forfor Chris ParrishParrish Randolph County Superior CourtCourt Judge Randolph County Superior Judge

May 17, 2022 Primary Election

LIFE LONG CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICAN EXPERIENCE MATTERS MAY 17, 2022 PRIMARY ELECTION EXPERIENCE MATTERS

TO LEARN MORE:

Or visit Chris’s website at:

Animal cruelty prosecutor – Prosecuted the case that became the basis of Susie’s Law

www.parrishforjudge.nationbuilder.com Veteran prosecutor, 22 years with over 120 superior court trials to date

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary - Past Commander, PA II Specialist, Instructor

WWE leaves virtual reality behind in 1st tour since 2020  Professor ofEmail civil and criminal law (over 18 years) and 3 �me published author parrishforjudge@gmail.com

FRIDAY APRIL 29

By Dan Gelston The Associated Press

HI 65 LOW 53 PHILADELPHIA — Triple H walked with his arms crossed PRECIP 8% like

an X — his signature Degeneration X symbol — with his 7-foot tag-team partner, Joel Embiid, to SATURDAY APRIL 30month ring a ceremonial bell last before a Philadelphia 76ers playoff game. His theme music blared HI 65 through the arena, and near55 from the ly 19,000 fansLOW hanging 44% rafters roaredPRECIP when the wrestler hoisted his bad-guy weapon-ofchoice sledgehammer and struck the bell. SUNDAY MAY 1 Sure, the setting wasn’t WrestleMania — though Triple H lost a match in the same building when HI 75 the event was held there in 1999 — but for the superstar-turned-exLOW 58 ecutive, the frenzied atmosphere PRECIP 33% was a reminder of what WWE lost during the 16 months it ran without live events and raucous MONDAY MAY 2 crowds. “It was a fun opportunity to get back into an arena packed full of fans and have them HI 77go nuts,” said Triple H, known these days as LOW 59Levesque. WWE executive Paul PRECIP 32% “That adrenaline rush, there’s nothing like it.” WWE hasn’t been the same without its “Yes!” chants or “This TUESDAY MAY 3 is Awe-some!” singsongs once the pandemic relegated the company to running empty arena matchHI with 81 a piped-in es every week soundtrack and virtual LOW 60fans. No more. PRECIP 24% 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

Over 20 years experience in the Superior Court Division

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Lives in Asheboro with wife Melanie and his two step sons

 United States Coast Guard Auxiliary - Past Commander, PA II Specialist, Instructor

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In this Jan. 9, 2018, file photo, Paul “Triple H” Levesque participates in the “WWE Monday Night Raw: 25th Anniversary” panel during the NBCUniversal Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour in Pasadena, Calif. pay-per-view Sunday in Texas and Dallas on Monday for the flagship “Raw” TV show on USA. WWE spruced up sets, brought back old stars and hit the reset button on TV programming humbled with record-low ratings and a strong need for new stars. “I do think if we were doing this in front of the live crowd, it would have been a situation that would have made me an even better per-

former,” Reigns said. “As a live performer, that simultaneous response keeps you sharp. We had to adjust and adapt to the times that were in front of us.” With Hulk Hogan in the house, WWE held their only WrestleMania with fans this past April 10 and 11 at Raymond James Stadium. WWE last ran a weeknight televised event with a paid crowd on March 9, 2020, in Washington.

WWE then moved to its in-house performance center in Florida on March 13, before setting up what it dubbed The ThunderDome -where fans registered for spots on LED digital videoboards — for stretches in Florida at the Amway Center, Tropicana Field and the Yuengling Center. “People like Roman have been able to emotionally bring a performance that, maybe with peo-

directions over him,” have benefited, Levesque said. “But that’s the beauty of what we do, to go be entertained, however you want to be entertained. As a performer, sometimes that’s difficult.” WWE’s July 5 “RAW” on USA Network hit 1.472 million viewers, the lowest in the 28-plus year history of the show. Levesque, WWE EVP of global talent strategy and development, said the company would “take a hard look” at how it can attract more fans to the product each week. WWE can only hope the combination of live crowds and the return of box office attractions such as Becky Lynch, Goldberg, and Cena can ignite interest and grow ratings during the build to the marquee Aug. 21 SummerSlam at the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. “It never is one thing,” Levesque said. “We see this as a moment in time to shift everything. I think you’ll see it in just the layout of everything, the set designs, the way it’s presented. There’s a greater emphasis on utilizing the spaces that we have and the TV aspect of it while still engaging the fans. A lot of that comes from the time we had to experiment inside the ThunderDome.” The first start is putting fans — holding their homemade signs and wearing their catchphrase T-shirts — back in the seats. “When we have that live crowd, sometimes they almost become the cameras for a lot of the performers,” Reigns said. “But when you don’t have that real-time, flesh interaction, the red light becomes the focal point for the performer.”

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

End of mask mandates backed by science, will of the American people

“Last week, we learned there were 221,303 migrant encounters at our southern border in March. This is a 33% increase from the month prior and the highest monthly total of Biden’s presidency.”

“GOVERNMENT’S FIRST DUTY is to protect the people, not run their lives.” President Ronald Reagan warned us about the dangers of government overreach when he spoke these words back in 1981. Unfortunately, many of those in power today fail to heed them. Last Monday, a federal judge in Florida struck down President Joe Biden’s travel mask mandate, effectively ending mandates on public transportation. This was a momentous decision and a major victory in the fight to end all mask mandates nationwide. The ruling was met with great excitement and numerous airlines, businesses, and localities lifted their mask requirements almost immediately. This includes places like Concord, which announced only a day later that face masks would no longer be required at Concord-Padgett Regional Airport, the Rider Transit Center, or while riding the bus. On some flights, some people even cheered loudly as the change was announced over the loudspeaker. This was a long-overdue decision backed by science and the will of the American people. However, as quick as the ruling came out, so did President Biden’s counterattack. Just three days after the mandate was revoked, Biden’s Justice Department announced it would appeal the decision on the grounds of protecting public health. However, this appeal would not do anything to improve American public health. I have been a vocal advocate for lifting unnecessary mask mandates for some time. In February, I led the successful fight against mask mandates on our children in Cumberland County schools. I also cosponsored the Unmask Our Kids Act to direct education funding only to school districts that provide in-person learning and optional masks. Despite insisting that mask mandates are still needed to protect American public health, Biden remains committed to repealing Title 42 public health protections at our southern

border. Title 42 is a common sense regulation that gives government officials the authority to quickly turn around migrants at the southern border to protect health. Since its implementation in March 2020, it has played an integral role in stemming the flow of illegal migration. Repealing it now would only make the border crisis worse. Last week, we learned there were 221,303 migrant encounters at our southern border in March. This is a 33% increase from the month prior and the highest monthly total of Biden’s presidency. Unfortunately, this is not a surprising trend, as illegal crossings have risen nearly every month since Biden took office. If Title 42 is revoked, the Department of Homeland Security estimates up to 18,000 migrants per day will illegally enter our country. This would overwhelm our border patrol agents, as well as deepen the humanitarian, national security, and public health crises we are already experiencing. We need policies that actually protect the health and security of Americans. Securing our border is fundamental to this. We must also finish construction of the border wall, increase funding to border patrol, reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and maintain Title 42 protections. Whether they are appealing or repealing, President Biden and Washington Democrats continue to promote a far-left agenda over the well-being of American families. Yet you deserve better. That’s why I will continue to work every day to ensure you and your family can live safely and free from needless government interference as our Founding Fathers intended. Richard Hudson is serving his fifth term representing North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He currently serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and in House leadership as the Republican Conference Secretary.

COLUMN | ERICK ERICKSON

The certitude of ineptitude The criticisms of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the border patrol by the left are criticisms of Hispanic voters and their families — a constituency the Democrats are losing.

I REALLY AM flummoxed by the ineptitude of President Joe Biden and his chief of staff, Ron Klain. Biden has been a Washington politician for half a century, including eight years as vice president and before that a senior senator. Klain is a consummate Washington insider, having worked for Janet Reno, Al Gore, Biden and others. How are they this inept? Last summer, the border got swamped with migrants. They sent Vice President Kamala Harris south of the border and the situation never improved. Activists accused border patrol agents of whipping refugees with horsewhips. The White House condemned the act. But an investigation recently revealed no immigrants were whipped. White House staff have declined to apologize for believing the allegation. Many border patrol agents are Hispanic. The criticisms of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the border patrol by the left are criticisms of Hispanic voters and their families — a constituency the Democrats are losing. But the White House seems openly hostile to both. Now, having seen what monsoon of migrants the summer brought last year, the Biden administration is preparing for the expiration of Title 42. The pandemic is receding. Title 42 can be deployed as a health care power so long as the pandemic is at the forefront. It allows the surgeon general to keep people from entering the United States due to a health care crisis. With a receding pandemic, Title 42 has to go away. It’s only a matter of time before some enterprising Trump judge scraps it to exacerbate the political problems for Biden. Here’s the thing: How are we in April of 2022 in a midterm election and the White House clearly has no plan to deal with the surge of illegal immigrants and expiration of Title 42? Their own polling shows this issue is pushing Hispanic voters to the GOP and they’ve got nothing. They have had plenty of time to prepare and did nothing to prepare. How are they this inept? The Biden administration was caught flat-footed on Ukraine too. They knew the Russians would invade. They

chose to provide Ukraine help but have constantly scaled back their original offers. The administration has slow-walked intelligence to Ukraine, putting the Republicans in a more pro-Ukraine position than Biden. Biden has accused Russia of genocide and then taken no actions equal to the accusation. Just last week, the United States promised helicopters on a Thursday and walked back the promise that same Friday. How are they this inept? Then there is the mask issue. They could have let it expire a few weeks ago and taken the credit. Instead, a federal judge in Florida threw it out. Then Joe Biden himself said people should have the choice whether they want to wear a mask or not. Less than six hours later, his administration decided to appeal to get the mask mandate reinstated. But they are not going to ask for its immediate reinstatement. Instead, they’re going to ask for the authority to be able to reimpose it in the future. So, in other words, Biden could have canceled the mask mandate a few weeks ago, rendered the court case moot, preserved the power to reimpose it and taken credit for its end. But Biden and Klain did not. Instead, they will now ask a court to preserve power for the organization that insists you not eat raw cookie dough and cook your steak to an internal temperature of 145 F. How are they this inept? Between the border, Ukraine and the masks, they really have no plans for governing. They have just decided to perpetuate the status quo of their own making in the hope that something shakes out. They are careening from crisis to crisis, two clowns in bumper cars colliding with crises of their own creation. The best they have going now are their pundit partisans lamenting that really Biden is a victim of circumstance unable to control anything. And that is not much of a defense. Some might say this is all part of some elaborate plan, but the Republicans are about to wipe them out. That is most assuredly not part of the plan. How are they this inept?

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

Tennessee governor signs transgender athlete penalty bill Nashville, Tenn. Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has signed legislation that will add harsh penalties against public schools that allow transgender athletes to participate in girls’ sports. Lee signed the proposal last Friday without comment. The bill will go into effect July 1. The governor had previously signed a measure last year mandating that student athletes must prove their sex matches that listed on the student’s “original” birth certificate. This year, the GOP-controlled legislature decided to add penalties to that ban — which is in effect even as a lawsuit challenging its constitutionality makes it way through court.

NBA

Memphis’ Morant named NBA’s Most Improved Player Memphis, Tenn. Ja Morant has been named the NBA’s Most Improved Player. The Memphis Grizzlies guard was rookie of the year in 2020 and now adds his second major award in three seasons. Morant is the first Grizzlies player to receive the award. He scored a career-best 27.4 points per game and also set career highs in rebounds, steals and field-goal percentage. Morant was an All-Star this season for the first time. San Antonio’s Dejounte Murray was second in voting from a panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters who cover the league.

GOLF

Mickelson signs up for 3 events without saying he’ll play Rancho Santa Fe, California Phil Mickelson has signed up for the PGA Championship and the U.S. Open. His manager also asked the PGA Tour for permission to play in a Saudi-funded golf tournament outside London. That doesn’t mean Lefty is going to play. Steve Loy, his longtime manager, says Mickelson has no concrete plans on when and where he’ll play. He’s just keeping his options open. In other Saudi news, Greg Norman has announced Trump National Doral Miami as the host course for the team championship finale in the lucrative LIV Golf Invitational series. It’s the second Trump course on the list.

NHL

Lightning celebrate Cup wins at White House Washington, D.C. President Joe Biden honored the Tampa Bay Lightning for winning the Stanley Cup in each of the past two seasons. It was a rare sports break for the president amid his administration’s response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Russian players Andrei Vasilevskiy, Nikita Kucherov and Mikhail Sergachev attended the White House ceremony and shared photos on social media. The president cracked jokes about captain Steven Stamkos but made little mention of other players. There were no notable boycotts by Lightning players, who made an extra trip to Washington just for this occasion.

BUTCH DILL | AP PHOTO

Ross Chastain celebrates his win in Victory Lane after Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega.

Chastain steals victory at Talladega The TrackHouse Racing No. 1 snuck below Erik Jones to win at the Cup Series’ biggest track

The Associated Press TALLADEGA, Ala. — Ross Chastain surveyed his situation on the final lap at Talladega Superspeedway and decided his best strategy was to stay right where he was and not make a move for the win. It got him to Victory Lane. Chastain stole the win Sunday when leader Erik Jones moved out of his way to defensively block reigning NASCAR champion Kyle Larson. It cleared the lane for Chastain, who pointed his Chevrolet straight, slipped past Jones and collected his second career Cup victory. “Holy cow! We didn’t do anything! We just stayed down there!” Chastain screamed over his radio. The race was Jones’ to control on the final lap and he knew Lar-

son would make a move for the win. Larson waited until they were exiting the final turn and, in hindsight, Jones said he should have let him go and stayed put with Chastain on his bumper. “Looking back, I wish I would have stayed on the bottom and let (Chastain) push me,” Jones said. “It is what it is. You’re trying to just win the race. You can only see how much is going on from the seat. You’re trying to make the best decision you can the last 1,500 feet.” Chastain, who scored his first career Cup win last month on the road course at Circuit of the Americas, won for the second time in five races. This one was his first on a superspeedway, where he said he’s usually the driver who makes the wrong moves. “I’m always the one going to the top early and making the mistake and there at the end it was like eight to go, and I was like, ‘I’m not going up there again,’” Chastain said. “I did that a couple of times, I was like, ‘I’ll just ride on the bottom. I’m not going to lose the race for us.’

2 Wins in the last five races for Ross Chastain, who also won at Circuit of the Americas “I have no idea. They just kept going up. They just kept moving out of the way.” The eighth-generation watermelon farmer from Florida climbed out of his winning TrackHouse Racing entry through the open roof flaps — like a sunroof — and smashed a watermelon from the roof of the Chevy in celebration. Chastain also bit into a hunk of watermelon he picked up off the ground, but this time asked on Fox Sports if any seeds had gotten stuck in his beard. He did his entire live television interview following his win in Texas last month with a bit of watermelon rind stuck on his face.

The winning car was the same Chevrolet that Chastain drove to victory on a road course a month ago, but NASCAR’s new Next Gen model makes it easily adaptable to the different circuits on the schedule. Chastain and William Byron are the only multiple race winners through 10 Cup events — a quarter of the season. He’s solidly locked into the playoffs with TrackHouse, a second-year team owned by former driver Justin Marks and Pitbull. Austin Dillon finished second for Richard Childress Racing in a 1-2 sweep for Chevrolet, while Kyle Busch was third in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. Larson wound up fourth for Hendrick Motorsports, followed by JGR driver Martin Truex Jr. and then finally Jones, who fell to sixth trying to save the win. Michael McDowell in eighth was the highest-finishing Ford. The Cup Series races next Sunday at Dover International Speedway in Delaware. Alex Bowman is the defending race winner.

Baker Mayfield looks to overcome adversity again The former Heisman Trophy winner’s career is in limbo after the Browns traded for Deshaun Watson

The Associated Press NORMAN, Okla. — Baker Mayfield has overcome adversity many times and expects to do it again. After all, perhaps more than any other quality, the former University of Oklahoma quarterback has made his mark with resilience. Whenever Mayfield felt slighted during his college days, the chip on his shoulder grew and he improved, making him one of the most beloved Sooners in recent years. On his unique path, he went from walking on at Texas Tech and Oklahoma to winning the 2017 Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma and becoming and No. 1 overall draft pick. His defiant, outspoken approach along the way drew praise and criticism, with both feeding him fuel. Oklahoma unveiled a statue of his likeness during halftime of the school’s Spring Game on Saturday — an honor the school bestows upon its Heisman winners. The event was highly anticipated — the seats inside the stadium were nearly full, and lines stretched outside the stadium well after kickoff. Fans cheered loudly as Mayfield addressed them inside the stadi-

DAVID RICHARD | AP PHOTO

Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield is awaiting a trade after Cleveland acquired Deshaun Watson to be its starting quarterback. um, and as the statue was unveiled across the street at the school’s Heisman Park. Even with all he’s accomplished, Mayfield is back to facing uncertainty he looks to maintain his NFL career. He recently said he felt “disrespected 100%” by the Cleveland Browns and said they told him they expected him to return as their starter next season before trading for Deshaun Watson and signing him to a record-setting $230 million contract. He remains with the Browns

as they try to work out a trade, but he believes his four-year stint with Cleveland will be over soon. For now, he’ll focus on improving and healing the labrum in his left, non-throwing shoulder he tore in Week 2 last season. “I haven’t been in this specific situation before, but it’s familiar territory when it comes to mindset and getting back to the basics and realizing what I need to do. And right now, I can control getting healthy, working and giving everything I have to wherever my next home is.”

Mayfield had success in Cleveland. He reached his peak two seasons ago, when the Browns won a wild card game at Pittsburgh for the franchise’s first playoff win in a quarter century. Cleveland took Kansas City to the limit in the divisional playoffs, fueling hopes that a Super Bowl trip with Mayfield might be in the future. Instead, he struggled with the injury last season, and the Browns finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs. “I think, obviously, there’s a lot of ups and downs,” he said. “That’s just life. Everybody at the next level, throughout their careers, they hit a low point. And it’s not about that low point, it’s how you handle it. I’ve said that, it’s never the actual adversity or the challenge, it’s what you do with it and how you set your mind to it.” He is owed $18.8 million next season — a price tag that might complicate possible deals heading into the draft. On Saturday, he mostly escaped from worrying about those things. “In the process of where I am right now, of not knowing the next landing spot — to be able to come back just potentially a week prior to wherever I’m going to find out — it’s pretty cool to come back to where this all started,” he said. “And it’s a good reset being around family, friends, loved ones, to just have that home base that you know, that you always have somewhere to go back to that you can lean on.”

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

5 BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

PREP NOTES

Edi Austin

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Providence Grove softball players mob Makayla McClain after she hit a home run against Randleman during a PAC game earlier this season at Randleman.

Dominant teams clinch area titles Randolph Record staff PROVIDENCE GROVE’S undefeated softball team sealed at least a share of the regular-season title in the Piedmont Athletic Conference. The Patriots began this week with a 17-0 overall record and, with two conference games left, a 10-0 record in the PAC. Randleman’s baseball team finished its regular season league schedule with a 12-0 record against PAC opponents. The Tigers will end up with at least a four-game edge in the standings.

Perfect pitching

Randleman outscored PAC opponents by a combined 14611 in those 12 games. Among the other teams, only Trinity has a chance to finish with a positive run differential in conference competition. The Uwharrie Charter Academy boys’ tennis team had an undefeated regular season to win the PAC title. Wheatmore’s girls’ soccer team made it through the first half of the PAC schedule unscathed and also won all six non-conference games through last week as well.

Southwestern Randolph pitcher Macie Crutchfield notched a perfect game in softball by retiring all 15 Wheatmore batters in a 10-0 five-inning win. Crutchfield, a freshman, set down 13 batters with strikeouts. Asheboro’s Marsh throws gem Marsh threw a no-hitter in a 2-0 victory against Ragsdale in a game that was part of the Chatham Central Tournament. Marsh, a junior, used 74 pitches for the gem. He struck out six batters and issued two walks. It was a much-needed performance for the Blue Comets, who snapped a fourgame losing streak with the outcome. Marsh also drove in a run in the victory.

PREP SPORTS SHOTS: WHEATMORE AT UCA GIRLS SOCCER

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Providence Grove’s Edi Austin has continued her strong hitting for one of the top teams in the area.

Providence Grove, softball Austin had some big outings at the plate as the Patriots maintained their undefeated record entering the last week of the regular season. Providence Grove beat Trinity 15-0, Uwharrie Charter Academy 7-5 and Randleman 4-0. Austin had a total of seven hits in those games. Austin was a big part of an offense in support of pitching standout Emma Mazzarone. Austin, a senior infielder, drove in three runs in the Trinity game. Against UCA, Austin roped two triples and scored two runs. She followed that by going 3-for-4 with a home run and triple and knocking in half of the team’s runs against Randleman. Mazzarone had another notable stretch, striking out seven in a three-hitting no-hitter against Trinity, fanning 16 against UCA and responding with a 17-strikeout, no-hitter vs. Randleman.

COLLEGE NOTES

Hill picks up first win, league award Randolph Record staff UWHARRIE Charter Academy alum Hunter Hill was named Rookie Pitcher of the Week recently in the USA South Conference for baseball. Hill, a North Carolina Wesleyan freshman from Asheboro, threw four shutout innings across two relief outings. He gave up a total of four hits with four strikeouts and without a walk. Hill, a right-hander, logged the victory in N.C. Wesleyan’s 3-2 victory at Greensboro College. The result marked his first career decision. That was part of what became a sixgame winning streak for the

Battling Bishops, who take a 23-14 overall record and 15-3 USA South mark into the final weekend of the regular season. Varner caps first season Providence Grove alum David Varner posted a 10-13 record as a freshman for King (Tenn.) University’s wrestling team. Varner went 1-2 in the Division II regional tournament with an 11-8 victory against Limestone’s Kyle Daley at 165 pounds+. During the season, he primarily competed in the 165-pound weight class, though saw some action at 157 and 174.

COLLEGE RECRUITS

SWR jumper to make leap to Navy Randolph Record staff

PHOTOS BY PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Top, Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Chloe Douglas makes a pass against visiting Wheatmore’s Racheal Pierce in last week’s Piedmont Athletic Conference game. Middle left, Wheatmore’s Ellie Garrison controls the ball before taking a shot on goal against UCA. Middle right, UCA’s Lily Charlesworth clears the ball against Wheatmore’s Mikalah Walls. Bottom, UCA’s Jazmin Palma takes a shot between Wheatmore’s Ellie Garrison and Racheal Pierce. Wheatmore won 6-0.

HIGH JUMPER Josie Allred of Southwestern Randolph is headed to Navy to be a member of the women’s track and field team. Allred was also a part of Southwestern Randolph’s Class 2-A state champion volleyball team. Last year, Allred was the Mid-Piedmont Conference champion in the high jump

with a mark of 5 feet, 1 inch in the conference meet. Lineman picks Guilford Providence Grove football player Brett Breedlove has picked Guilford College as his next stop. Breedlove, a lineman, is a three-time all-conference selection in football, helping pave the way for a strong offense for the Patriots during the past season.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Zoo closes aviary habitat Staff members will be re-assigned to other areas North State Journal staff ASHEBORO — The North Carolina Zoo announced it would permanently close its aviary habitat. First built in the early 1980s, the 40-year-old domed structure requires significant repairs due to the effects of high humidity and wet conditions, according to the NC Zoo. The decision to close and take down the habitat was made by the zoo leadership and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “For 40 years, the Zoo’s aviary offered a special place to connect with nature,” NC Zoo director Pat Simmons said. “The free-flying birds and tropical plants served as an oasis for many people – guests and staff alike. It was a heart-wrenching decision to close the aviary; however, safety is our highest priority.” There are 93 birds of 33 species

“For 40 years, the Zoo’s aviary offered a special place to connect with nature. ... The free-flying birds and tropical plants served as an oasis for many people – guests and staff alike. It was a heart-wrenching decision to close the aviary; however, safety is our highest priority.” Zoo director Pat Simmons that are in the process of being relocated to other parts of the Zoo or rehomed at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums facilities. More than 2,000 plants of 450 species currently live in the aviary, so zoo staff is working on logistics for removing the plant collections. “It is truly an immersive habi-

tat, and guests often remarked that they felt as though they were really in a tropical forest. To hear the swoosh of a Victoria Crowned Pigeon as it flies by is magical,” said Debbie Zombeck, the zoo’s curator of birds and a worker at the aviary since 1993. “To watch the birds’ natural behaviors as they forage for food, build nests and raise their young made the Aviary a must-see destination in the state.” The Aviary has been closed since late January due to the threat of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The HPAI virus is a highly contagious disease that can affect several species of birds. None of the Zoo’s birds have tested positive for the virus. Simmons said the structure would have needed to be rebuilt as repair efforts wouldn’t have been practical. The closure of the habitat won’t result in staff members losing jobs. Some staff might be reassigned elsewhere in the zoo as plans are developed for changes in the animal and plant collections.

LAUREN ROSE | NORTH STATE JOURNAL, FILE

A colorful resident of the aviary at the NC Zoo perches on a tree branch.

White House seeks more power to counter use of drones in US The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Biden administration is calling on Congress to expand authority for federal and local governments to take action to counter the nefarious use in the U.S. of drones, which are becoming a growing security concern and nuisance. The White House on Monday released an action plan that calls for expanding the number of agencies that can track and monitor drones flying in their airspace. It calls for establishing a list of U.S. government-authorized detection equipment that federal and local authorities can purchase, and creating a national training center on countering the malicious use of drones. The White House in a statement said it was critical that Congress “adopt legislation to close critical gaps in existing law and policy that currently impede government and law enforcement from protecting the American people and our vital security interests.” The federal-government-wide focus comes as the Federal Aviation Administration projects that more than 2 million drones will be in circulation in the U.S. by 2024 and as availability of detection and mitigation technologies — including jamming systems — are limited under current law. The White House plan calls for expanding existing counter-drone authorities for the departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Defense, Energy, as well as the Central Intelligence Agency and NASA in limited situations. The proposal also seeks to expand drone detection authorities for state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement agencies and critical infrastructure owners and operators.

Planes are parked at terminals at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, N.J., Sept. 8, 2008.

AP PHOTO

The proposal also calls for establishing a six-year pilot program for a small number of state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement agencies to take part in a drone detection and mitigation operations under supervision of the Justice Department and Homeland Security. Currently, no state or local agencies have such authorization. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said the administration’s legislative recommendations “are vital to enabling DHS and our partners to have the necessary authorities and tools to protect the public, the President and other senior officials,

RCC from page 1

TECHNIMARK from page 1

business technology, and welding. Overall, the report attributed a $101.4 million economic impact for the county with alumni impact at $75.9 million. The report also highlighted the economic impact of students on the county. Students from Randolph County would have left for other educational opportunities without the existence of RCC, according to the report. The students contributed $3.3 million in spending to the local economy. The operations of the college also contribute significantly to the local economy. RCC employs 770 people full-time with $22.3 million in total economic impact when the dayto-day operating expenses of $10.3 million per year are included.

turing. “North Carolina’s leadership in manufacturing is recognized around the world,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “Our state’s workforce is a key reason for our success, and as our First in Talent plan for economic development makes clear, education and specialized training will prepare our workers to meet the future needs of manufacturers like Technimark.” The North Carolina Department of Commerce coordinated the state’s support for the company during its site evaluation and decision-making process. Technimark’s project in North Carolina will be facilitated, in

federal facilities, and U.S. critical infrastructure from threats posed by the malicious and illicit use” of drones. In the U.S., drones have become increasingly ubiquitous and useful tools for law enforcement agencies, agricultural use, commercial photography as well as hobbyists. But there are growing concerns as well. In January 2019, Newark Liberty International Airport halted all landings and diverted planes for over an hour after a potential drone sighting nearby. Smugglers have used drones to deliver illegal drugs into the country. And Major League Baseball has had several

part, by a Job Development Investment Grant approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee. For the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by $398.5 million. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $1,108,800, spread over 12 years. Because Technimark chose a site in Randolph County, classified by the state’s economic tier system as Tier 2, the company’s JDIG agreement also calls for moving $123,200 into the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. The Utility Ac-

incidents since 2020 where games have been delayed after privately owned drones have been flown onto a playing field. In 2015, there were two separate incidents in which drones crashed on White House grounds. Federal and local authorities say that drones have also been used to smuggle contraband, including cell phones and drugs, into prisons. National security officials have also found the use of drones in last November’s unsuccessful assassination attempt against Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and an August 2018 attack on Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro

count helps rural communities across the state finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business. “Congratulations to Technimark and congratulations to the many people in our community that worked behind the scenes to support the company as it made its decision to expand here,” N.C. Rep. Pat Hurley said. “Our community stands ready to support this expansion in every way we can.” Among the parents with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina were Randolph Community College, Randolph County, the City of Asheboro and the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation.

“quite troubling,” according to a senior administration official who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity ahead of Monday’s formal announcement. The counter-drone plan calls for establishing a mechanism to coordinate research, development, testing, and evaluation of detection and mitigation technology across the federal government. The White House says it also wants to work with Congress to enact a criminal statute that sets standards for legal and illegal uses of drones, and bolster cooperation with other countries on counter-drone technologies.

“Our state’s workforce is a key reason for our success, and as our First in Talent plan for economic development makes clear, education and specialized training will prepare our workers to meet the future needs of manufacturers like Technimark.” North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders

REDUCED RESPONSE TIMES PROACTIVE CRIME PREVENTION SAVING TAXPAYER DOLLARS A SHERIFF WHO KEEPS HIS PROMISES, PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST AH-0001451645-01

PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO RE-ELECT GREG SEABOLT FOR SHERIFF

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

obituaries

Jacksie Lyerly Robbins

May 20, 1933 — April 24, 2022 Jacksie Lyerly Robbins, age 88, of Asheboro passed away on Sunday, April 24, 2022 at Universal Healthcare of Ramseur. Mrs. Robbins was born in Durham, NC on May 20, 1933 to Jack and Myrtle Huneycutt Lyerly. She was retired from Black & Decker after 41 years of service and was a member of Sunset Avenue Church of God. In addition to her parents, Jacksie was preceded in death by her husband, William C. Robbins. Before Jacksie's health declined she could be seen working in her beautiful yard. She loved to go antiquing and shopping. She dearly loved her dog Bendi and cat Chester. Jacksie was always the life of the party. If she was there, you were going to have fun. She is survived by her niece, Judy Burgess (Larry) of Asheboro; step daughter, Patsy Allred (Harvey) of Asheboro; nephews, Gary Burrow (Brenda) of Lake Tillery and Al Lyerly (Regina) of Monroe; and several great nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Randolph SPCA, 300 W. Bailey St., Asheboro, NC 27203 or Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203.

John Stanback Lewis, II April 28, 1925 — April 22, 2022

John Stanback Lewis II, age 96, of Asheboro passed away on Friday, April 22, 2022 at his home. Mr. Lewis was born in Randolph County on April 28, 1925 to Lacy and Fleta Kearns Lewis and was a graduate of Asheboro High School. John served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII, receiving a Purple Heart. He was retired from the US Agricultural and Stabilization Conservation Service after 46 years of service. John was a member of Central United Methodist Church, where he participated in the Lloyd's Bible Study. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta Gowan Lewis and brother, Lacy Lewis, Jr. John loved horses and showing his saddlebreds. He loved to cook and always enjoyed eating a good meal. He is survived by his daughter, Lee Lewis Brown of Asheboro; son, Stan Lewis (Phyllis) of Asheboro; and granddaughter, Kelly Lewis of Asheboro. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203.

Betty Geraldine Stalvey Stout

December 2, 1939 — April 21, 2022 Betty Stalvey Stout, age 82, of Greensboro passed away on Thursday, April 21, 2022 at Trinity Elms Clemmons. Mrs. Stout was born in Randolph County on December 2, 1939 to Louis and Ruth Angle Stalvey and was a 1958 graduate of Asheboro High School. Betty was employed as a Real Estate Agent in Greensboro for over 40 years. She was a former member of St. John's Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir, and more recently, was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her daughter, Donna Weekley, and siblings, Linda Stalvey, Carol Osborne, and Tommy Stalvey. Betty loved to cook and was known for her fried chicken, strawberry cake, and lasagna. She loved music and dancing and enjoyed entertaining. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Kenneth Stout; son, Tommy Stout (Tracy) of Carolina Beach; daughter, Jennifer McIntyre of Lexington; grandchildren, Emily Wall (Evan) of Wallburg, Chandler McIntyre (Mackenzie) of Bermuda Run, Caroline Stout of Hendersonville, and Thomas Stout II of Clemson, SC; great granddaughter, Ruby Perez; and siblings, Frances Fuller, Joy Barefoot (Jim), Mickey Stalvey, and Louis Stalvey.

Jane Smith Kearns

January 13, 1947 — April 20, 2022 Sarah Jane Smith Kearns, age 75, of Asheboro passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at her home surrounded by her family. Ms. Kearns was born on January 13, 1947 to Fred and Blanche Treece Smith. She was retired from Klaussner Furniture with over 35 years of service. In addition to her parents, Jane was preceded in death by her brother, Fred Neil Smith and stepfather, James Hall. Jane was a strong-willed lady who had a big heart and a great sense of humor. She loved her family and enjoyed traveling with them. She loved gardening, flowers, her animals, and canning vegetables. Jane enjoyed sewing and was a black belt in karate. She is survived by her daughter, Donna Kearns Cole (Rick) of Asheboro; son, Kevin Kearns (Heather) of Asheboro; grandsons, Brandon Mitchell, Hunter Smith, Landon Ray, Tyler Kearns, Dylan Kearns, and Brady Kearns; great grandsons, Brody and Liam Mitchell; significant other, Steve Shelton; nephew, Tim Smith, and fur baby, Max. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203 or Randolph SPCA, 300 W. Bailey St., Asheboro, NC 27203.

January 3, 1978 — April 19, 2022 Charles Wayne Woolard also known as “Doc” of Asheboro died unexpectedly April 19th 2022. He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years Karla Brown Woolard of Asheboro; parents, Dalton and Mary Woolard of Pleasant Garden; Brothers, Dalton Woolard, Jr and wife Amy of Reidsville; Douglas Woolard and wife Lori of WinstonSalem; loving niece and nephews, Parker, Bethany and Landon; two fur missles, Scarlet and Logan; six fur babies, Gandy-Andy, Arthur, Anna-Nana, Aria, Tinker Bell, Ophra, Uhtred and many kittens. Wayne Graduated from Randleman High School in 1996 where he played trumpet for the high school band. After high school he felt a sense of duty to join the US Navy as a Corpsman. Wayne knew serving his country was his calling. He completed two tours of combat in Iraq and after injuries in battle received a Purple Heart. Wayne was awarded many medals while in the US Navy. These include a combat action ribbon, presidential unit citation, meritorious unit citation, Navy and Marine Corps achievement medal, outstanding volunteer medal, NATO medal, Navy unit citation, meritorious mast. letter of commendation, senior sailor of the quarter awards, and sea service reployment ribbon. Friends and family knew him as a jokester. Once you met Wayne you would never forget him. He was larger than life and never took life for granted. He also had a serious side and fought for justice no matter who it affected. His life was centered around the love he had for his wife and fur babies. His wife meant everything to him. Their love was unbreakable.

June 25, 1940 — April 18, 2022 William (Bill) Burl Jones passed away on April 18, 2022 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dr. Frances Faircloth Jones, his son, Dr. Drew Alexander Jones and wife Dr. Leigh Haley Jones of Greensboro. His three treasured grandchildren also surviveAlexandra Haley Jones of Raleigh, Davis Winder Jones of Durham and William Cameron Jones of Greensboro. Bill found joy in everyday life with his family. He was best known for his endearing positive attitude and infectious sense of humor. In addition to their residence in Asheboro he and Frances enjoyed many years at their second home in Cherry Grove Beach, SC. They also cherished their opportunities for worldwide travel and exploration. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force having served as a missile launch crew member. He retired after a long career with Energizer Battery in Asheboro. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wiley and Lena Jones, a brother, Philip Jones and two sisters, Frances Jones Allred and Sylvia Jones Duke. The family wishes to express deep gratitude to Hospice of Randolph for their kind and compassionate care during Bill's end of life journey. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church and Hospice of Randolph at 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203.

July 31, 1956 — April 19, 2022 Debra Lynn "Debby" Hammond, 65, of Asheboro, passed away on April 19, 2022 at Randolph Hospice House. Debby was born on July 31, 1956 in Randolph County to Paul and Ethel Hammond. She was a graduate of Southwestern Randolph High School and was a member of Hopewell Friends Meeting. Debby was retired from Energizer Battery. She is survived by her brother, Ronald Hammond and wife Phyllis of Asheboro; niece, Tina Petersen and husband Chad of Kernersville; and her beloved canine companion, Allie. The family would like to thank all of Debby's friends for their visits, food and care giving during her illness. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions be given to Randolph County SPCA, 300 W. Bailey St., Asheboro, NC 27203 or The American Cancer Society, 4 Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro, NC 27407 or Hospice of Randolph County, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203.

Dr. Joseph Robert Mannino, Jr.

Bill Jones

Charles Wayne Woolard

Debra Lynn Hammond

May 6, 1941 — April 20, 2022

Robert Lee Parker Jr. December 2, 1962 — April 23, 2022

Robert Lee Parker Jr., age 59, of Star, passed away on April 23, 2022. Junior was born in Montgomery County on December 2, 1962 to Robert Lee and Dorothy Frances Dorsett Parker Sr. He loved working with the Boy Scouts and volunteering with the Emergency Medical Rescue and Star Fire Department. He also attended Flowery Branch United Methodist Church in Georgia and was a TarHeels fan. In addition to his parents, Junior was preceded in death by his brother Donald Lane Parker. He is survived by his sister Sharon Deese of Concord; brother Ronnie Parker (Pokson) of Asheboro; niece Kari Brussi and nephew Johnny Sparks. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 25, 2022 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Phillips Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood to your local blood bank.

Franchot (Fran) Peoples

November 30, 1945 — April 17, 2022 Franchot (Fran) Peoples of Asheboro, NC, passed away on Sunday, April 17, 2022. He was born November 30, 1945 in Badin, NC. Fran was an avid sportsman, always owning and loving a Ranger boat, but his favorite sport was golf. Fran loved the sport his entire life and the days he worked in the sport. His happiest days were spent at US Opens, Augusta, other golf championships and working on the perfect swing. Fran had one other love and that was his wife Marcia. They were a team for over 44 years and truly shared life together. He was a member of Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Asheboro, NC. Fran was predeceased by his Mother, Pauline Thomas, his stepfather, Fletcher Thomas, his favorite aunt and uncle, Mattie and Clarence Brown, a sister, Mary Thomas and a nephew Maurice Thomas. he leaves behind to love him all of her life, his wife, Marcia Daniel of the home, his sisters Joylen Thomas, New York, Paulette Lendon, Badin, Carol Mosely, Badin, his brother David Peoples (Diane), High Point, and special friend and little brother Ernest Peoples (Katherine) Badin. He is also survived by nieces Ebony Yakout of Charlotte, Andra Leigh Thomas, Badin, and nephews Dean Peoples of Roanoke, Virginia, Donald Peoples of Badin, David L. Peoples, Jr. of High Point, and special little cousin, Yolanda Peoples of Newman, Ga.

Dr. Joseph Robert Mannino, age 80, died Wednesday, April 20, 2022. Joseph Robert Mannino was born May 6, 1941 in Altoona, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Helen (Menza) Mannino. He received his bachelors in physiology from Juniata College in 1963 and then his Masters from East Carolina University in 1965. He obtained his medical degree (DO) from Kansas City University in 1971 and his PhD from Colorado State University in 1974. He married Rosemary in 1978. Throughout his long career he loved to teach medicine as well as practice it. He has been the director of medical education at several institutions in several states. He has taught medical students and he has run family practice residency training programs. His last location of practice was in South Florida until he retired. He remained in South Florida until 2017 when he moved to Asheboro, North Carolina to be closer to family Survivors include one daughter, Dr. Angela Mannino (Dr. Samuel Keith) of Asheboro; two grandchildren, Oliver and Rose; and one grandpuppy, Sadie. He was preceded in death by his wife Rosemary and his parents. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be directed to St Joseph Catholic Church in Asheboro.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

STATE & NATION

Biden’s election year challenge: Blame GOP for nation’s woes By Will Weissert The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden has an election-year message for frustrated voters: At least he’s trying. For those who think he isn’t doing enough to help Ukraine fend off the Russian invasion, Biden announced $800 million in new military support last Thursday. To ease the pain of high gas prices, he’s tapped the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and reopened onshore sales of oil and natural gas leases on public land. And to address historic inflation, Biden has tried to smooth out supply chain-crimping bottlenecks at the nation’s ports. The president hopes the moves, which are being announced in near-daily rollouts and in a stepped up travel schedule, will present a contrast with Republicans — who, he argues, spend more time complaining about problems than proposing solutions. “I mean this sincerely — name me something the national Republican Party is for,” Biden said at a recent Democratic National Committee meeting. But it’s clear he’s not attracting much support. A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds 54% disapprove of how Biden is handling the presidency. The approval rate in the poll taken from April 14-18 is about the same as last month, but down from the president’s 63% approval rating a year ago. With crime rates rising and inflation at its highest levels since 1981, these don’t feel like boom times to many. Seventy percent of

Americans call the nation’s economy poor. Further, just 33% say they approve and 66% say they disapprove of Biden’s handling of the economy, with about a third of Democrats, along with almost all Republicans, disapproving. Primary elections that begin next month will help show whether Democrats are embracing Biden’s vision. Biden has suggested that one way to address his political challenges is to get on the road and make the case directly to voters about the impact of his administration’s policies. He has increased his domestic travel lately to promote a $1 trillion, bipartisan infrastructure package that cleared Congress last fall. Biden has visited Iowa, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Oregon, and Washington state since last week. But most top Democrats running for office aren’t clamoring for the president’s help. Former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke says he has no interest in national Democratic figures visiting his state as he now runs for governor. Florida Rep. Val Demings, as she campaigns for Senate, was non-comital about Biden’s help, as was Ohio U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris nevertheless plan on boosting U.S. trips in coming weeks, as well as stepping up their fundraising on behalf of the Democratic Party, according to administration officials and allies. But most of their activity is likely to take place in the late summer and early fall — after primaries are concluded and as voters will have their choice at the ballot box laid out for them.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden arrives at the White House in Washington, D.C., Monday, April 25, 2022, after spending the weekend in Wilmington, Del. At a Democratic fundraiser at a yacht club in Portland, Oregon, Biden predicted that Democrats would add two seats in November to secure a 52-48 Senate majority. “The far right’s taken over that party,” he said of Republicans. “And it’s not even conservative in a traditional sense of conservatism. It’s mean. It’s ugly.” But trying to blame the other side amid mounting problems can have its limitations. Democrat Terry McAuliffe attempted to make last year’s Virginia governor’s race a referendum on the dangers of modern day GOP — even branding Republican opponent Glenn Youngkin “Trump in a sweater vest.” McAuliffe lost in a state Biden had carried by 10 points barely a year earlier. Some who would otherwise be the White House’s fiercest allies

Dowless, key figure in NC absentee ballot fraud probe, dies By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

AP PHOTO

Leslie McCrae Dowless Jr. poses for a portrait outside of his home in Bladenboro, Dec. 5, 2018.

RALEIGH — Leslie McCrae Dowless Jr., the key player in a North Carolina absentee ballot fraud probe that led to a do-over congressional election, has died. His daughter, Andrea Dowless Heverly, wrote that her father “passed away peacefully” Sunday morning, according to a social media post. He had been diagnosed with an advanced form of lung cancer and died at his daughter’s home in Bladen County, his friend Jay DeLancy told The Associated Press in a brief interview. Dowless was in his mid-60s. The political operative was set to go on trial this summer on more than a dozen state criminal counts related to absentee ballot activities for the 2016 general election and the 2018 primary and general elections. A half-dozen others were also charged. Witnesses told state officials that Dowless, with help of his assistants, gathered hundreds of absentee ballots from Bladen County in 2018. Those workers testified they were directed to collect blank or incomplete ballots, forge signatures on them and even fill in votes for local candidates. The 2018 general election results for the 9th Congressional District were ultimately thrown out and a new vote for the seat was ordered by the State Board of Elections, following an inquiry. Dowless was working in the 2018 congressional race for then-Republican candidate Mark Harris. No charges were filed against Harris, who didn’t run in the subsequent election. Dowless was later accused of charges related to the 2016 elections and the 2018 primary. Dowless’ health had become an issue while receiving a sixmonth prison sentence for federal crimes involving benefits fraud that was tangentially related to the broader state probe. A federal judge delayed Dow-

less’ reporting date from last December to April 1 after his defense attorney said Dowless had a stroke in August and learned in the fall about a potential cancer diagnosis. Dowless’ federal attorney filed another motion in March that she requested be sealed “due to the inclusion of sensitive health information.” The Federal Bureau of Prisons never reported Dowless as being in custody. Dowless’ state and federal attorneys didn’t immediately respond to emails on Sunday seeking comment. But with Dowless’ death, the absentee ballot case against him is now moot. Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman said legal delays caused by COVID-19 contributed to the inability to bring Dowless to trial sooner. While expressing condolences to Dowless’ family, Freeman said Sunday her office would move forward with the prosecution of other defendants, even though Dowless had been seen as the principal in the probe. “All of the other cases to some degree were derived from what the state thought was his master plan and coordination,” Freeman told the AP. She said each individual case would be evaluated before deciding how to proceed. Dowless declined to accept a plea agreement on the state charges in November. The charges against him included obstruction of justice, possessing absentee ballots and perjury. DeLancy, who saw Dowless last week, said Dowless “wanted the chance to defend himself against the state’s indictments” and rejected the plea deal “in hopes of being given his day in court.” Dowless was “a man who was quick to trust and even love others by his acts of service,” DeLancy said in a text message. Dowless had pleaded guilty last June in federal court to obtaining illegal Social Security benefits while concealing payments for political work he performed.

ter,” collapsed in Congress. “His midterm strategy with respect to the environment is pretty underwhelming and not likely to work,” said Brett Hartl, chief political strategist at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund. White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested Biden may help Democrats avoid a Republican midterm romp by evoking the phrase “Don’t compare me to the Almighty, compare me to the alternative.” That’s something Biden said frequently as vice president and while campaigning for the White House in 2020. “Really, if you look at the other side, they have nothing in the cupboard. They have no plan,” Psaki said during a recent event for the liberal podcast “Pod Save America.” “We could be saying that more.”

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Stanly County Journal

AP PHOTO

Regan, Vilsack visit NC U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack highlighted the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) investment of more than $39 million in six watershed infrastructure projects in North Carolina alongside U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan, where they visited a new Franklin County Public Utilities project.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Budd says Biden admin dismantling security of border

North State Journal Staff

U.S. Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC) joined over 50 House members Monday in a letter calling out Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for what the group called the Biden administration’s failure to address the crisis on the southern border. “The Biden administration’s complete and utter disregard for law and order on the southern border is a dereliction of duty,” said Budd. “This historic crisis can be solved if we go back to the policies that worked under President Trump.”

Lecture on “ancient North Carolinians” scheduled for May The Hardaway American Indian Museum Working Group has scheduled a program on the Hardaway Archaeological Site, which is part of Morrow Mountain State Park. Dr. Randolph Daniel of East Carolina will give a lecture on “ancient North Carolinians” at the Badin School Auditorium on May 14. The Hardaway site uncovered artifacts that helped build an unbroken historical chain of more than 12,000 years of native American history in the area. Admission for the lecture is free.

Criminal Justice Dean charged with shooting from vehicle The Dean of Montgomery Community College’s Career and Technical Education over Criminal Justice Technology was charged by North Carolina Wildlife last week for illegal activity. According to the citation, Wildlife Officer Brandon Barbee charged Tracey Wyrick on Sunday, April 10, at 8:33 a.m., on Steakhouse Road in Albemarle. The citation states Wyrick, “did unlawfully and willfully take wild bird to wit wild turkey with the use and aid of a motor vehicle,” the Montgomery Herald reported.

20177 52016 $0.50

Community College report shows major economic impact

RALEIGH — A comprehensive new economic impact analysis finds that North Carolina’s 58 Community Colleges have a $19 billion annual impact on the state’s economy and supports more than 320,000 jobs across the state. The economic impact study found for every dollar the state invests in North Carolina’s Community Colleges, the state gains $7.50 in added incomes and social savings. The colleges generate nearly double the revenue from what they take in from the taxpayers. For every $1 the state invests, taxpayers get $1.90 back in added tax revenues and public sector savings, according to the study. “The Community College System serves over half a million students each year and fuels North Carolina’s job engine,” said system president Thomas Stith. “Our strong partnerships with business and industry in our communities and around the globe are creating a demand for our community colleges to provide the unique and skilled

workforce needed, and we are leading economic recovery efforts in North Carolina.” The report was an exhaustive undertaking supported by the North Carolina General Assembly, leaders from the N.C. Association of Community College Presidents, N.C. State’s Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research, and national research leader Emsi Burning Glass. “It’s been a privilege to have worked and supported our education partners on this study from the beginning as I was confident the results would blow us away. And it did. I think it’s fair to say not many government-funded programs generate more revenue than they take in from taxpayers,” said State Sen. Deanna Ballard (R-Watauga), who chairs the Senate Education Committee. “It’s critical that our high school graduates and adults looking to gain new skills take advantage of the incredible opportunities that their local community college provides.” The report also says that community college graduates have higher incomes that contribute

The report showed over $70 million in annual economic impact from Stanly Community College to a larger tax base and a growing state. For example, students who graduate with an associate degree from a N.C. community college will see an increase in earnings of up to $7,000 or more each year compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent. If the student builds upon their associate degree to then earn a bachelor’s degree, their annual income also doubles on average. The report also assesses the economic impact of five programs that each college offers on the area economy, the return on investment for students, and the benefits generated for N.C. taxpayers. In Stanly County, the report showed over $70 million in annual economic impact from Stanly Community College. Local pro-

Albemarle moves forward on proposed social district planning By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — Following the mold set by cities like Charlotte and Kannapolis, Albemarle is working on the plans that would potentially set up a social district in the city’s downtown corridor, allowing people to buy alcoholic beverages from a business and enjoy them outside. If enacted, the social district would create an area in the city that would be safe to stroll while consuming a purchased beverage. Gaining preliminary approval by the Albemarle City Council in early February, this social district proposal was further discussed in a public input session held at the Albemarle City Hall on April 25.

According to Joy Almond, director for the Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation and manager for Main Street, the goal of the session was to allow the public to share feedback and ask questions following a presentation that discussed the map boundaries and specificities of the social district. Almond, Police Chief Jason Bollhorst, and Fire Chief Pierre Brewton were all on hand at the session to address the community. Among a crowd of around 20 people in the city hall, multiple local citizens spoke in favor of the social district idea while a few spoke against the idea, citing concerns of increased alcohol usage. The City of Albemarle will now take the feedback from the session and finalize the proposed

Once [the proposal] is passed ... I would ideally like to have it ready in September of this year if possible.” Joy Almond ordinance, budget, district map and days of the week that the city would enforce the district. The city council is now expecting to vote on the combined package in May, with a secondary approval needed from the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission. “Once that is passed and we get

grams measured in the report included biomedical equipment program, business administration, early childhood education, computer machining, and radiography. Overall, the report attributed a $70 million economic impact for the county with alumni impact at $49 million. The report also highlighted the economic impact of students on the county. Students from Stanly County would have left for other educational opportunities without the existence of SCC, according to the report. The students contributed $1.4 million in spending to the local economy. The operations of the college also contribute significantly to the local economy. Over 620 people are employed full-time by SCC with $19.8 million in total economic impact when the dayto-day operating expenses of over $7.4 million per year are included. “Stanly Community College is an important resource for our county,” said SCC Board Member Joseph Burleson. “Our future economic growth depends on the workforce the college trains.”

the materials that would be needed such as sidewalks, labels for the beverage holders at the establishments that would be participating, I would ideally like to have it ready in September of this year if possible,” Almond told council members on April 18. “We have a lot of outdoor events that will be going on. Pfeiffer will again be working with us on a homecoming event on Friday, Sept. 30.” Last May, the NC General Assembly passed House Bill 781, also known as the “Bring Business Back to Downtown” bill. Social districts were added to the bill with the intent of increasing foot traffic for businesses who have struggled since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, empowering municipalities to allow people to buy and consume alcohol within a defined area. As defined in the bill, nobody will be allowed to bring their own alcohol into the district and nobody will be allowed to take a beverage from one establishment into another establishment that also serves alcohol.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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♦ HARRELL, SANTARRIO JARELL (B /M/35) was arrested on charges of AWDW INTENT TO KILL on 04/25/2022 ♦ GLENN, JAMES EMMITT (W /M/45) was arrested on charges of POSSESS METHAMPHETAMINE on 04/24/2022 ♦ MCPHERSON, STEPHEN KYLE (W /M/40) was arrested on charges of ASSAULT WDW GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL on 04/22/2022 ♦ SPINDLER, PHILLIP CHRISTOPHER (W /M/30) was arrested on charges of LARCENY OF FIREARM on 04/22/2022 ♦ LOWERY, KIMBERLY ANN (W /F/37) was arrested on charges of BREAKING OR ENTERING (M) on 04/21/2022 ♦ DEMBY, NASIR MALIK (B /M/22) was arrested on charges of ASSAULT ON FEMALE on 04/19/2022. ♦ GULLEDGE, LYNDSAY RENAE (W /F/23) was arrested on charges of MISDEMEANOR LARCENY on 04/19/2022

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NC Zoo closes aviary habitat Staff members will be re-assigned to other areas

Sports Editor Cory Lavalette

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North State Journal staff ASHEBORO — The North Carolina Zoo announced it would permanently close its aviary habitat. First built in the early 1980s, the 40-year-old domed structure requires significant repairs due to the effects of high humidity and wet conditions, according to the NC Zoo. The decision to close and take down the habitat was made by the zoo leadership and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “For 40 years, the Zoo’s aviary offered a special place to connect with nature,” NC Zoo director Pat Simmons said. “The free-flying birds and tropical plants served as an oasis for many people – guests and staff alike. It was a heart-wrenching decision to close the aviary; however, safety is our highest priority.” There are 93 birds of 33 species that are in the process of being relocated to other parts of the Zoo or rehomed at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums facilities. More than 2,000 plants of 450 species

currently live in the aviary, so zoo staff is working on logistics for removing the plant collections. “It is truly an immersive habitat, and guests often remarked that they felt as though they were really in a tropical forest. To hear the swoosh of a Victoria Crowned Pigeon as it flies by is magical,” said Debbie Zombeck, the zoo’s curator of birds and a worker at the aviary since 1993. “To watch the birds’ natural behaviors as they forage for food, build nests and raise their young made the Aviary a must-see destination in the state.” The Aviary has been closed since late January due to the threat of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The HPAI virus is a highly contagious disease that can affect several species of birds. None of the Zoo’s birds have tested positive for the virus. Simmons said the structure would have needed to be rebuilt as repair efforts wouldn’t have been practical. The closure of the habitat won’t result in staff members losing jobs. Some staff might be reassigned elsewhere in the zoo as plans are developed for changes in the animal and plant collections.

LAUREN ROSE | NORTH STATE JOURNAL, FILE

A colorful resident of the aviary at the NC Zoo perches on a tree branch.

Boys Scouts bankruptcy judge approves sale of BSA warehouse By Randall Chase The Associated Press DOVER, Del. — The judge presiding over the Boy Scouts of America bankruptcy has approved the organization’s request to sell its warehouse and distribution center in North Carolina for roughly $13.5 million and lease back the property from the buyer. The BSA wants to use some of the proceeds from the sale approved by the court as part of its contribution to a proposed $2.6 billion fund to compensate tens of thousands of men who claim they were sexually abused as children while involved in Scouting. After a monthlong trial, Judge Laurie Selber Silverstein continues to weigh whether to approve the Boy Scouts’ reorganization plan. The Boy Scouts of America sought bankruptcy protection in February 2020 to stave off a flood of lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse by Scout leaders and volunteers over several decades. At the time, the BSA was facing about 275 filed lawsuits and was aware of roughly another 1,400 pending claims. But more than 82,200 abuse claims have been submitted in the bankruptcy. The reorganization plan calls for the BSA and its 250 local councils, along with settling insurance com-

AP PHOTO

This Wednesday, May 21, 2014 file photo shows merit badges and a rainbow-colored neckerchief slider on a Boy Scout uniform. panies and troop sponsoring organizations, to contribute some $2.6 billion in cash and property to a fund for abuse victims. In return, those entities would be released from further liability, meaning they could not be sued for Scout-related abuse claims. At the hearing, Silverstein noted that the findings that the BSA and plan proponents are asking her to make in confirming the plan present her with issues that she has never previously faced as a bankruptcy judge.

“Quite frankly, probably none of my previous rulings in eight years really dealt with this particular type of issue, where there are such extensive findings that people are asking me to make, and where the findings are particularly controversial,” she said. When an attorney representing a group of insurers opposed to the plan noted that the BSA had filed hundreds of pages of documents in the wee hours Friday morning with plan modifications and revisions, the judge assured him that he

would have time to review and respond to them before she rules. “You’re not in danger of a forthcoming decision in the next few days,” said Silverstein. She must decide a host of controversial and complex issues involving not just the Boy Scouts, but the BSA’s insurers, its 250 local councils, and tens of thousands of troop sponsoring organizations. Opposing insurers have argued that the plan violates their rights under policies they issued, and that the findings that plan supporters want Silverstein make would bind them to the proposed trust distribution procedures and make it difficult to challenge claim decisions. In an email, one attorney for abuse claimants described such binding trust distribution procedures as a “Holy Grail” that mass tort lawyers have been chasing for years. Insurers say approval by the judge would set a dangerous precedent tort lawyers would use to their advantage in future lawsuits. Perhaps the most contentious issue, and the one most fraught with legal difficulty, is whether third parties, including settling insurers, local councils and troop sponsors, should be allowed to escape future liability by contributing to the victims fund, or at least not objecting to the plan. Some survivors argue that releasing their claims against non-debtor third parties without their consent violates their due process rights. The U.S. bankruptcy trustee, the government’s “watchdog” in Chapter 11 bankruptcies, argues that such releases are not allowed under the bankruptcy code.

Psychologist hired by Depp testifies about Heard’s health The Associated Press FALLS CHURCH, Va. — A forensic psychologist testified Tuesday that actor Amber Heard suffers from borderline personality disorder and histrionic personality disorder, as the civil lawsuit between her and ex-husband Johnny Depp continues to wallow in the couple’s personal issues. Depp is suing Heard for libel in Fairfax County Circuit Court after she wrote an op-ed piece in The Washington Post referring to herself as “a public figure representing domestic abuse.” The article doesn’t mention Depp by name, but his lawyers say the article contains “defamation by im-

plication” because it clearly refers to allegations of domestic abuse made by heard when she filed for divorce in 2016. The psychologist, Shannon Curry, was hired by Depp’s legal team. She said she reached her diagnosis during 12 hours of interviews with Heard, as well as from reviewing her mental-health records. Curry also testified that Heard does not suffer post-traumatic stress disorder from her relationship with Depp, as Heard has claimed. Depp’s team hopes Curry’s testimony bolsters their contention that Heard was the aggressor in the couple’s troubled relationship. Depp just conclud-

AP PHOTO

Actress Amber Heard listens in the courtroom at the Fairfax County Circuit Court in Fairfax, Va. ed four days on the witness stand and testified about Heard’s “need for conflict” and her tendency to

hound and pursue him during arguments when he tried to walk away and disengage. The two personality disorders are similar, Curry said. Borderline personality is a disease of instability, she said “driven by an underlying fear of abandonment.” She said people with the disorder “will make desperate attempts to prevent that from happening.” Evidence introduced earlier at the trial includes audio clips of Heard begging Depp not to leave, and to stay with her after he indicated a desire to break up or separate. She also said that borderline personality disorder “seems to be a predictive factor for women who implement violence against

their partner.” Depp has said he is the one who was a victim of domestic violence, and that Heard hit him on multiple occasions and threw items like paint cans and vodka bottles at him. Histrionic personality disorder, Curry said, is associated with “drama and shallowness,” and a need to be the center of attention. She said there’s a correlation in the disorder with people who are physically attractive and “utilize their looks to get that attention.” While the libel lawsuit is supposed to center on whether Depp was defamed in the article, most of the trial has focused on ugly details of the couple’s brief marriage. Depp has denied ever striking Heard.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

End of mask mandates backed by science, will of the American people

“Last week, we learned there were 221,303 migrant encounters at our southern border in March. This is a 33% increase from the month prior and the highest monthly total of Biden’s presidency.”

COLUMN | ERICK ERICKSON

provide Ukraine help but have constantly scaled back their original offers. The administration has slow-walked intelligence to Ukraine, putting the Republicans in a more pro-Ukraine position than Biden. Biden has accused Russia of genocide and then taken no actions equal to the accusation. Just last week, the United States promised helicopters on a Thursday and walked back the promise that same Friday. How are they this inept? Then there is the mask issue. They could have let it expire a few weeks ago and taken the credit. Instead, a federal judge in Florida threw it out. Then Joe Biden himself said people should have the choice whether they want to wear a mask or not. Less than six hours later, his administration decided to appeal to get the mask mandate reinstated. But they are not going to ask for its immediate reinstatement. Instead, they’re going to ask for the authority to be able to reimpose it in the future. So, in other words, Biden could have canceled the mask mandate a few weeks ago, rendered the court case moot, preserved the power to reimpose it and taken credit for its end. But Biden and Klain did not. Instead, they will now ask a court to preserve power for the organization that insists you not eat raw cookie dough and cook your steak to an internal temperature of 145 F. How are they this inept? Between the border, Ukraine and the masks, they really have no plans for governing. They have just decided to perpetuate the status quo of their own making in the hope that something shakes out. They are careening from crisis to crisis, two clowns in bumper cars colliding with crises of their own creation. The best they have going now are their pundit partisans lamenting that really Biden is a victim of circumstance unable to control anything. And that is not much of a defense. Some might say this is all part of some elaborate plan, but the Republicans are about to wipe them out. That is most assuredly not part of the plan. How are they this inept?

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

NBA

GOLF

NHL

BUTCH DILL | AP PHOTO

Ross Chastain celebrates his win in Victory Lane after Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega.

Chastain steals victory at Talladega The TrackHouse Racing No. 1 snuck below Erik Jones to win at the Cup Series’ biggest track

Baker Mayfield looks to overcome adversity again The former Heisman Trophy winner’s career is in limbo after the Browns traded for Deshaun Watson

DAVID RICHARD | AP PHOTO

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Fury retains heavyweight belt in final fight The British “Gypsy King” improved to 32-0-1 for his career

Two Pfeiffer students named USA South Athletes of the Week Softball’s Caiti Mickles and lacrosse’s Alexis Murriel both were honored

By Steve Douglas The Associated Press LONDON — What might be the final punch of Tyson Fury’s controversial boxing career smashed into the chin of Dillian Whyte, sending him to the canvas and one of his teeth flying through the air. Fury raised his right hand in celebration, knowing there would be no coming back from an uppercut seemingly felt all around Wembley Stadium. And sure enough, there wasn’t. With a brutal finish in the last seconds of the sixth round, Fury defeated Whyte — his fellow Briton and former sparring partner — in front of more than 94,000 fans inside England’s national soccer stadium to stay unbeaten with the 32nd win in his 33-fight professional career. And that, the 33-year-old Fury said, could be it. “This might be the final curtain for the Gypsy King,” Fury (32-0-1) said in the ring, with his WBC and Ring Magazine belts around his shoulders. “What a way to go out.” He wasn’t quite finished there. A born entertainer, Fury gave the biggest ever capacity for a boxing bout in Britain a now-familiar post-fight rendition of Don McLean’s “American Pie.” He celebrated with his team and posed for pictures with kids, wearing the red-and-white colors of the flag of England on St. George’s Day. Fury was soaking in perhaps his last moments in a ring after 14 years as a professional. For his last fight — or so he says — he gave a clinic. After a gripping trilogy with Deontay Wilder in the United

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

NICK POTTS | AP PHOTO

Tyson Fury, left, lands a blow on Dillian Whyte during Fury’s knockout win Saturday at Wembley Stadium in London.

“I’m a legend ... what a way to top it all off.” Tyson Fury States, Whyte (28-3-0) was a big step-down for Fury, who mostly toyed with his compatriot after sizing him up in a cagey opening couple of rounds. Fury was in control of the fight without truly exerting himself until the fifth round, which he dominated. A body shot and then a straight right rocked Whyte back, getting the crowd going. By what proved to be the final round, Whyte was starting to breathe heavier and had a cut

around his right eye — potentially from a clash of heads. Whyte — the long-time mandatory challenger — was mostly reckless with some big but wayward shots. He tried to play rough and get in the head of Fury, while hoping to land the one big punch to turn him into a superstar overnight. In the end, it came from the right hand of Fury, which sent Whyte collapsing to the canvas. Whyte eventually got to his feet and tried to show he was ready to continue but then staggered toward the ropes, leading the referee to end the fight. “He is as strong as a bull and has the heart of a lion,” Fury said of Whyte, “but tonight he met a great in the sport, one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.

ALBEMARLE — A pair of Pfeiffer students were honored Monday when the USA South Athletic Conference announced its latest group of top athletes of the week. Caiti Mickles of the Falcons’ softball team and Alexis Murriel of the Falcons’ lacrosse team were named to the list of 20 players spanning throughout the conference. Mickles, a senior outfielder/pitcher, was named Softball Player of the Week for her efforts as the first-place Falcons (32-8, 16-2) posted a 4-0 record last week against USA South competition. In those games, she posted a .727 batting average, .667 on-base percentage and 1.273 slugging percentage. She also recorded five runs, nine RBIs, three doubles, one home run and one sacrifice fly. Furthermore, she garnered a 2-0 record with a 0.91 ERA from the pitching mound. The Falcons are now set to host the USA South Divisional Tournament at Jack Ingram Field in Misenheimer from Thursday through Saturday. They will open the tournament against fifthranked Wesleyan (19-17, 9-9), a team Pfeiffer has already defeated twice this season. Murriel was named the Women’s Lacrosse Defensive Player of the Week. The senior defender/midfielder from Gastonia 10 caused turnovers, 13 draw controls, 13 ground balls, seven goals and three assists over the last week as the Falcons notched a 2-0 record against conference competition. It was an inconsistent season for the Falcons (5-11, 4-6), who finished their season on a high note with a 14-3 victory over William Peace (212, 1-9) on April 19 and a 16-6 victory over Wesleyan (4-13, 3-7) on April 23. After starting the season 1-6 and struggling against conference opponents, Pfeiffer did not qualify for the upcoming USA South Tournament. Top-ranked Meredith (13-5, 10-0) and second-ranked Southern Virginia (10-6, 9-1) are early title favorites as the postseason event approaches.

32-8 Pfeiffer softball’s regular season record this season, including 16-2 in the conference

Southern California coach Lincoln Riley talks with his quarterbacks during spring practice in Los Angeles.

MARK J. TERRILL | AP PHOTO

Riley feels momentum gathering for Southern Cal in spring The former ECU offensive coordinator jumped from Oklahoma to the Trojans in the offseason

By Greg Beacham The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — For a coach charged with the monumental task of raising a prestigious college football program from its lowest depths in three decades, Lincoln Riley looked quite content after Southern California’s spring game. Running out of the historic Coliseum tunnel in front of a cheering home crowd for the first time on a sun-kissed Saturday in Los Angeles left Riley even more confident he’s leading the Trojans in the right direction.

“If you’re in this city and you don’t feel the momentum around this program, you’re not paying attention,” Riley said. Coaches frequently attempt to speak such feelings into existence, but the renewed excitement at Southern Cal isn’t just coachspeak. The Trojans went through their scrimmage in front of 33,427 fans — the largest crowd to attend the spring game since the school began keeping track in the 1990s. A vast fan base is clearly renewing its passion for a program that mostly gave angst to its faithful in the past half-decade. USC’s success in recruiting and in the transfer market also have skyrocketed since Riley’s hiring less than five months ago, headlined by the arrival of Heisman Trophy hopeful Caleb Williams as the Trojans’ top quarterback. In another sign of the renewed

“If you’re in this city and you don’t feel the momentum around this program, you’re not paying attention.” Lincoln Riley, Southern Cal coach interest around USC, the spring game was broadcast nationally on ESPN. But winning is the most important step, and Riley — who was an assistant coach at East Carolina from 2010-14 — believes the Trojans will be ready to do much more of it in his debut season. “Today was a great example of the progress that’s been made in a really short time,” Riley said. “I thought the day was really repre-

sentative of how the entire spring has gone.” Many fans traveled downtown to the Coliseum to get their first look at Williams, the Oklahoma transfer with a smooth release and impressive poise in the pocket. The sophomore completed every pass he threw in the first half of the spring game, including two touchdown passes to Mario Williams, another ex-Sooner who followed Riley to the West Coast. Caleb Williams’ talents are obvious, but he intends to supplement them by being a vocal leader for a roster with many players who just met this spring. He’s eager to take on a central role in what’s certain to be a year full of unique challenges, and he isn’t daunted by the pressure of following the Heisman winners whose jersey numbers are honored in the Coliseum’s famed Peristyle end.

“I don’t really get nervous,” Williams said with a smile. “It was really cool. Hopefully we get to pack it out really soon. Coming out here and getting in front of the fans, having ESPN and all that, showing the public what we’re going to be — we’re not even close to what we actually are going to be, so it’s awesome.” The fans and recruits in attendance might not have paid much attention to the perfect weather and the Coliseum’s clear views from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, but they saw what Riley is building on the field. “We’ve put in a lot of work, and it’s amazing to see the progress since I got here,” linebacker Shane Lee, a transfer from Alabama, said. “We’re bringing in guys that fit our culture and our scheme. I’m excited to see where it’s going.”

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

MARK LENNIHAN | AP PHOTO

Planes are parked at terminals at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, N.J., Sept. 8, 2008. focus comes as the Federal Aviation Administration projects that more than 2 million drones will be in circulation in the U.S. by 2024 and as availability of detection and mitigation technologies — including jamming systems — are limited under current law.

The White House plan calls for expanding existing counter-drone authorities for the departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Defense, Energy, as well as the Central Intelligence Agency and NASA in limited situations. The proposal also seeks to

expand drone detection authorities for state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement agencies and critical infrastructure owners and operators. The proposal also calls for establishing a six-year pilot program for a small number of state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement agencies to take part in a drone detection and mitigation operations under supervision of the Justice Department and Homeland Security. Currently, no state or local agencies have such authorization. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said the administration’s legislative recommendations “are vital to enabling DHS and our partners to have the necessary authorities and tools to protect the public, the President and other senior officials, federal facilities, and U.S. critical infrastructure from threats posed by the malicious and illicit use” of drones. In the U.S., drones have become increasingly ubiquitous and useful tools for law enforcement agencies, agricultural use, commercial photography as well as hobbyists. But there are growing concerns as well. In January 2019, Newark Liberty International Airport halted all landings and diverted planes for over an hour after a potential drone sighting nearby. Smugglers have used drones to deliv-

er illegal drugs into the country. And Major League Baseball has had several incidents since 2020 where games have been delayed after privately owned drones have been flown onto a playing field. In 2015, there were two separate incidents in which drones crashed on White House grounds. Federal and local authorities say that drones have also been used to smuggle contraband, including cell phones and drugs, into prisons. National security officials have also found the use of drones in last November’s unsuccessful assassination attempt against Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and an August 2018 attack on Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro “quite troubling,” according to a senior administration official who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity ahead of Monday’s formal announcement. The counter-drone plan calls for establishing a mechanism to coordinate research, development, testing, and evaluation of detection and mitigation technology across the federal government. The White House says it also wants to work with Congress to enact a criminal statute that sets standards for legal and illegal uses of drones, and bolster cooperation with other countries on counter-drone technologies.

Hunter Biden is prime target if Republicans win Congress The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Intelligence officials had gathered to brief select members of Congress on future threats to U.S. elections when a key lawmaker in the room, No. 3 House Republican Elise Stefanik of New York, tried to move the discussion to a new topic: Hunter Biden’s laptop. Stefanik, who serves on the House Intelligence Committee, asked the officials during the April 1 briefing whether they had any evidence of Russian involvement in the release of Biden’s laptop to the news media in the fall of 2020 — a possibility floated by high-ranking former government officials in the weeks before the presidential election. Intelligence officials told Stefanik the question would be better answered by law enforcement. Stefanik’s query, shared with The Associated Press by a person who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the classified meeting, reflects a widespread sentiment in the GOP that questions about the financial dealings of President Joe Biden’s son remain unanswered. And they say they intend to do something about it. As Republicans prepare for a possible return to power amid rising hopes of winning the House and the Senate in the November elections, they are laying the groundwork to make Hunter Biden and his business dealings a central target of their investigative and oversight efforts. Republican lawmakers and staff have discussed analyzing specific messages and financial transactions found on the laptop and have also discussed issuing congressional subpoenas to foreign entities involved in paying Hunter Biden, according to people familiar with the matter who were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The conversations have been in the early stages but have included talks of bringing on Republican lawyers and for-

AP PHOTO

Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, speaks to guests during the White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House, April 18, 2022, in Washington, D.C. mer Justice Department officials to help lead the investigations, the people said. The White House in turn is preparing to defend the Democratic president from any allegations of wrongdoing and make the case that Republicans are driven by opportunism. It all raises the possibility of a messy, politically explosive showdown between a GOP-controlled Congress and the White House, one that could delve deeply into the affairs of the president’s family and shape the contours of the 2024 race for the White House.

Hunter Biden’s taxes and foreign business work are already under federal investigation, with a grand jury in Delaware hearing testimony in recent months. Hunter Biden’s membership on the board of a Ukrainian energy company and his efforts to strike deals in China have long raised questions about whether he traded on his father’s public service, including references in his emails to the “big guy.” Joe Biden has said he’s never spoken to his son about his foreign business. The White House declined to comment, and a law-

yer for Hunter Biden did not respond to an email. “Hunter Biden’s fair game because I believe Hunter Biden is a national security risk,” said Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, who is in line to take over the House Oversight Committee if Republicans win the House. “Hopefully, when I get the gavel, we’ll take it a step further.” In preparation, Comer’s oversight staff has already begun to make document requests and archived information related to the president’s son. The New York Post first report-

ed in October 2020 that it had received from Trump’s personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, a copy of a hard drive of a laptop that Hunter Biden had dropped off 18 months earlier at a Delaware computer repair shop and never retrieved. The story was greeted with skepticism due to questions about the laptop’s origins, including Giuliani’s involvement, and because top officials in the Trump administration had already warned that Russia was working to denigrate Joe Biden ahead of the November election. The Kremlin had also interfered in the 2016 race by hacking Democratic emails that were subsequently leaked. Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee now want to probe the origins of a widely shared letter from 50 former intelligence officials released a week after the New York Post story. The letter claimed the laptop carried “all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation” and suggested that “the Russians are involved in the Hunter Biden email issue.” Joe Biden in the second presidential debate, responding to Trump’s reference to the “laptop from hell,” said “there are 50 former national intelligence folks who said that what he’s accusing me of is a Russian plant.” That statement went further than the letter, though it was immediately and widely reported as having labeled the laptop as disinformation. Trump and many Republicans accused Biden of invoking Russia to avoid scrutiny about his son. No evidence has emerged since of any Russian connections to the laptop or the emails. For now, the Biden administration and many top Democrats are not commenting publicly on Hunter Biden. But the White House has already reassigned communications staff to prepare to respond to GOP investigations of Hunter Biden and other likely targets, including the origins of the coronavirus and the American withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

obituaries

Barbara Jean Crowell Hudson

May 5, 1934 - April 22, 2022 Barbara Jean Crowell Hudson, 87, of Albemarle passed away on Friday, April 22, 2022 in Atrium Health Stanly. Born May 5, 1934 in Albemarle, NC, she was the daughter of the late George Henry Crowell and Beulah Parker Crowell. She was a retired bookkeeper with E. J. Snyder with 42 years of service and was a member of North Albemarle Baptist Church where she was church pianist for 30 years. Mrs. Hudson was preceded in death by her husband, Harold William Hudson and her son, William Crowell Hudson as well as a sister, Joyce Crisco. Survivors include her son Johnny Hudson of Albemarle, and a sister Gay Cashion of Elk Park, NC. Memorials may be made to North Albemarle Baptist Church, 401 Park Ridge Road, Albemarle, NC 28001.

Beatrice (Batts) Farmer

March 23, 1929 ~ April 21, 2022 Beatrice Batts Farmer, 93, of Angier, passed away Thursday, April 21, 2022 at Wake Med in Raleigh. Beatrice was born March 23, 1929 in North Carolina to the late Johnnie William Batts Jr. and the late Bertha Hanford Batts. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, William Benjamin Farmer; sons, Larry Farmer and Steve Farmer; and grandson, Andy Logan. Survivors include son, Bobby Farmer (Bonnie); daughter, Pat Whitley (Perry); 10 grandchildren; and 23 greatgrandchildren. Beatrice enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a Minister's wife and Christian woman who loved the Lord and she loved telling others about the Lord. In Beatrice's memory and the memory of her first husband, Mr. Bill Farmer, memorials may be made to Love's Grove United Methodist Church or The Gideons International in lieu of flowers.

Eric Helms

September 23, 1948 ~ April 22, 2022 Eric Howard Helms 73 of Norwood died Friday Morning, April 22, 2022 at his home. Eric was born September 23, 1948 in Little River, SC to the late Ben and Thelma Cline Helms. He was a retired Dairy Farmer. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Gail Sweat Helms, three brothers, Eddie, James and Gene and a grandson, Alex Candelas. He is survived by two sons, Robert H. Helms of Albemarle and Mitchell W. Bruer (Ana) of Norwood. One daughter, Melissa Smith of Norwood. Three brothers, Charlie Helms and John Frank Helms (Mary) of Norwood and Raymond Helms of Albemarle. Eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Keith McDowall Austin

May 16, 1958 ~ April 24, 2022 Keith McDowall Austin, 63, of Stanfield, passed away Sunday, April 24, 2022, at his residence. Keith was born May 16, 1958, in North Carolina to the late Bobby Dale Austin and the late Henry Joan Austin. Keith was a caring, generous, and devoted brother, husband, father, and “Pop”. He lived his ministry faithfully for over 26 years as a pastor, with the support of his loving wife, and was the current pastor of West Oakboro Baptist Church. Keith treasured his family and spent every day fostering a special and unique relationship with each individual member. These bonds were not severed but will carry on for many years to come. Above all else, Keith loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with whom he is united for all eternity. Survivors include wife, Jody Austin; sister, Diane Austin; brother, Todd Austin; daughter, Brooke (Simon) Atkinson, daughter, Blaire (Shawn) Singleton, sons Matthew, Zachary, and Joshua Austin, daughter, Sarah (Robert Lankford) Austin; grandchildren Landon, Olivia, Brayden, Creed, Emery, Kasen, Trinity, Levi, Colton, and Susie.

Larry Eugene Barnette

Sarah "Aline" Hahn Tarlton

September 9, 1951 ~ April 22, 2022

September 2, 1922 ~ April 20, 2022

Mr. Larry Eugene Barnette, born Sept 9, 1951, passed away peacefully to the arms on Jesus and was greeted at heaven's gate by his parents and his niece Kristy Price Trull on Friday, April 22, 2022. He was the son of Mary Frances and William "Bill" Barnette. He was blessed with two sisters, Elaine Barnette and Robie Price (Keith) of Monroe, who cherished and looked out for him. Larry was happily married to Dianne Barnette of Stanfield for 33 years. His children are Stephen Barnette (Kim) of Monroe, Brandi Queen (Neal) of Marshville, Shelly Hall (Jason) of Locust and Jeff Little (Janette) of Locust. His grandchildren were the apple of his eye and he loved to brag on their accomplishments. Colby Barnette (Elizabeth), Trevor Barnette (Betsy), Grayson Thomas, Alexis Thomas, Carson Queen, Steven Little, Jada Hall, Jax Hall, Jordan Mosley and "Baby Barnette" - Pawpaw Larry loved you more than you will ever know! To his nephews and niece Billy, Tracey, Ritchie and Brian he loved you all as if you were his own children. Daddy, you will be missed dearly, but we know you are without pain and at peace. We love you!

Sarah Aline Hahn Tarlton, 99, of Oakboro, passed away Wednesday, April 20, 2022 peacefully in her home with her daughter by her side. Aline was born September 2, 1922 in Stanly County to the late Valius Ranzo Hahn and the late Dahlia Morgan Hahn. She was also preceded in death by husband, Henry Wilson Tarlton, daughter, Patricia Almond, brothers, Hoyle Hahn, and Hubert Hahn, sisters, Pearl Curlee, Leola Osborne, Louise Hahn, Mildred Talley, and Jewell Huneycutt. She loved her church and the weekly visits from the church groups and members. Her other loves were vegetable and flower gardening as well as canning and freezing vegetables for winter use. They were always giving back to the community they loved. Survivors include daughter, Pamela Tarlton Wellons of Mooresville, NC, grandsons, Kenny (Kam) Almond, Mitchell Almond, greatgrandsons,Cameron (Kelsey) Almond,and JR Almond, great-granddaughter, Kelsey (Will) Chase, great-greatgranddaughters, Riley and Kensley Chase and one on the way Sadie Kimber; sister, Maxzell Whitley, and many extended family who loved her dearly.

Raymond Morton September 23, 1939 ~ April 20, 2022

Raymond Marshall Morton, 82, of Albemarle, passed away Wednesday evening, April 20, 2022 at Atrium Cabarrus in Concord. Raymond was born September 23, 1939 in Stanly County to the late James Thomas and Esther Long Morton. He was a graduate of Norwood High School and member of Norwood Church of the Nazerene. He was a retiree of Wiscassett Mills. Raymond played baseball in high school and continued with his love of the game through coaching and umpiring Little League baseball. He was a avid Duke Blue Devil fan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Kirk Thomas Morton and brothers, Harvey Lee Morton, Ralph Thomas Morton and sister, Lena Mae Morton Farmer. He is survived by his sister, Louise Morton Caudle of Norwood and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to: South Stanly Dixie Youth Baseball, P. O. Box 545, Norwood, NC 28128.

Roger Franklin Crowell

Ruth Estridge

February 6, 1944 - April 19, 2022

January 19, 1932 ~ April 19, 2022

Roger Franklin Crowell, 78, of New London, passed away on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 in his home. Born February 6, 1944 in Stanly County, NC he was the son of the late Thomas Crowell and Bertha Holt Crowell. He attended Prospect Baptist Church and was a retired electrician with EJ Snyder. He was a woodworker and furniture maker and enjoyed fishing, golfing, and gardening. He could fix nearly anything. Mr. Crowell is survived by his wife Sherry Goins Thomas of the home. Other survivors include son Terry Crowell and wife Wendy of New London, as well as four grandchildren Justin Crowell, Zac Byrd, Kari Crowell and Lainee Crowell Byrd. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Smith Crowell, and two halfsisters. The family wishes to express special thanks to his caregiver Patsy Yarborough. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Stanly County.

Ruth Whitley Estridge, 90, of Ansonville, NC passed away, Tuesday morning, April 19, 2022 at Woodhaven Court in Albemarle. Ruth was born January 19, 1932 in Stanly County to the late Lum and Zotus Dennis Whitley. She and her husband, Joe owned and operated, Ansonville General Store and Estridge Lock & Key. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Miller Estridge; son in law, Rodney Sikes; sisters, Betty Jean Swaringen and Donna Horne. She is survived by her son, Joey Estridge and wife Missy, of Ansonville; daughter, Angela Estridge Sikes of Peachland; grandchildren, Ashley Sikes Tarlton and husband Jeremy; Jarrod Sikes and wife, Amy and Karlee Estridge; greatgrandchildren, Bailey Rae, Haven and Lainey Tarlton.

Vickie Lynn Helms August 25, 1957 - April 18, 2022

Vickie Lynn Helms, 64, of Stanfield passed away Monday, April 18, 2022 at Atrium Health Cabarrus in Concord, NC. Born August 25, 1957 in Stanly County she was the daughter of the late Theodore Jack Burnette and Ruby Yow Burnette. Vickie is survived by her husband George Benton of the home, son, Anthony M. Helms of Stanfield and daughter, Heather Helms Dowdy (Allen) of Stanfield. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Hannah Helms, Abigail Wheat (Matt), Elias Helms, Benjamin Helms, Ty Jackson Dowdy, her brother Johnny Burnette (Jackie) and sister, Mary Page. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents Vickie is preceded in death by her brothers Charles and Billy Wayne Burnette, and sister, Jane Burnette Hopkins.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

STATE & NATION

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden arrives at the White House in Washington, D.C., Monday, April 25, 2022, after spending the weekend in Wilmington, Del. handling the presidency. The approval rate in the poll taken from April 14-18 is about the same as last month, but down from the president’s 63% approval rating a year ago. With crime rates rising and inflation at its highest levels since 1981, these don’t feel like boom times to many. Seventy percent of Americans call the nation’s economy poor. Further, just 33% say they approve and 66% say they disapprove of Biden’s handling of the economy, with about a third of Democrats, along with almost all Republicans, disapproving.

Primary elections that begin next month will help show whether Democrats are embracing Biden’s vision. Biden has suggested that one way to address his political challenges is to get on the road and make the case directly to voters about the impact of his administration’s policies. He has increased his domestic travel lately to promote a $1 trillion, bipartisan infrastructure package that cleared Congress last fall. Biden has visited Iowa, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Oregon, and Washington state since last week.

But most top Democrats running for office aren’t clamoring for the president’s help. Former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke says he has no interest in national Democratic figures visiting his state as he now runs for governor. Florida Rep. Val Demings, as she campaigns for Senate, was non-comital about Biden’s help, as was Ohio U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris nevertheless plan on boosting U.S. trips in coming weeks, as well as stepping up their fundraising on behalf of the Democratic Party, according to administration officials and allies. But most of their activity is likely to take place in the late summer and early fall — after primaries are concluded and as voters will have their choice at the ballot box laid out for them. At a Democratic fundraiser at a yacht club in Portland, Oregon, Biden predicted that Democrats would add two seats in November to secure a 52-48 Senate majority. “The far right’s taken over that party,” he said of Republicans. “And it’s not even conservative in a traditional sense of conservatism. It’s mean. It’s ugly.” But trying to blame the other side amid mounting problems can have its limitations. Democrat Terry McAuliffe attempted to make last year’s Virginia governor’s race a referendum on the dangers of modern day GOP — even branding Republican opponent Glenn Youngkin “Trump in a sweater vest.” McAuliffe lost in a state Biden had carried by 10 points barely a year earlier. Some who would otherwise be the White House’s fiercest allies

say it’ll be up to Biden to energize voters ahead of November — regardless of what Republicans do. “He’s not an effective communicator,” said Wes Bellamy, founder of Our Black Party, which advocates for issues to strengthen African American communities. The president “speaks in a tone that doesn’t really resonate with much of his base and I don’t think they do a good enough job of being active on the ground,” Bellamy said. Adding to the challenge is the fact that, when the president addresses one problem, he may prompt another. Some of what the administration has done to tame prices at the pump, for instance, run counter to Biden’s promises about combating climate change — especially after his signature social spending bill, “Build Back Better,” collapsed in Congress. “His midterm strategy with respect to the environment is pretty underwhelming and not likely to work,” said Brett Hartl, chief political strategist at the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund. White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested Biden may help Democrats avoid a Republican midterm romp by evoking the phrase “Don’t compare me to the Almighty, compare me to the alternative.” That’s something Biden said frequently as vice president and while campaigning for the White House in 2020. “Really, if you look at the other side, they have nothing in the cupboard. They have no plan,” Psaki said during a recent event for the liberal podcast “Pod Save America.” “We could be saying that more.”

Dowless, key figure in NC absentee ballot fraud probe, dies By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press RALEIGH — Leslie McCrae Dowless Jr., the key player in a North Carolina absentee ballot fraud probe that led to a do-over congressional election, has died. His daughter, Andrea Dowless Heverly, wrote that her father “passed away peacefully” Sunday morning, according to a social media post. He had been diagnosed with an advanced form of lung cancer and died at his daughter’s home in Bladen County, his friend Jay DeLancy told The Associated Press in a brief interview. Dowless was in his mid-60s. The political operative was set to go on trial this summer on more than a dozen state criminal counts related to absentee ballot activities for the 2016 general election and the 2018 primary and general elections. A half-dozen others were also charged. Witnesses told state officials that Dowless, with help of his assistants, gathered hundreds of absentee ballots from Bladen County in 2018. Those workers testified they were directed to collect blank or incomplete ballots, forge signatures on them and even fill in votes for local candidates. The 2018 general election results for the 9th Congressional District were ultimately thrown out and a new vote for the seat was ordered by the State Board of Elections, following an inquiry. Dowless was working in the 2018 congressional race for then-Republican candidate Mark

AP PHOTO

Leslie McCrae Dowless Jr. poses for a portrait outside of his home in Bladenboro, Dec. 5, 2018.

Harris. No charges were filed against Harris, who didn’t run in the subsequent election. Dowless was later accused of charges related to the 2016 elections and the 2018 primary. Dowless’ health had become an issue while receiving a six-month prison sentence for federal crimes

involving benefits fraud that was tangentially related to the broader state probe. A federal judge delayed Dowless’ reporting date from last December to April 1 after his defense attorney said Dowless had a stroke in August and learned in the fall about a potential cancer

diagnosis. Dowless’ federal attorney filed another motion in March that she requested be sealed “due to the inclusion of sensitive health information.” The Federal Bureau of Prisons never reported Dowless as being in custody. Dowless’ state and federal at-

torneys didn’t immediately respond to emails on Sunday seeking comment. But with Dowless’ death, the absentee ballot case against him is now moot. Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman said legal delays caused by COVID-19 contributed to the inability to bring Dowless to trial sooner. While expressing condolences to Dowless’ family, Freeman said Sunday her office would move forward with the prosecution of other defendants, even though Dowless had been seen as the principal in the probe. “All of the other cases to some degree were derived from what the state thought was his master plan and coordination,” Freeman told the AP. She said each individual case would be evaluated before deciding how to proceed. Dowless declined to accept a plea agreement on the state charges in November. The charges against him included obstruction of justice, possessing absentee ballots and perjury. DeLancy, who saw Dowless last week, said Dowless “wanted the chance to defend himself against the state’s indictments” and rejected the plea deal “in hopes of being given his day in court.” Dowless was “a man who was quick to trust and even love others by his acts of service,” DeLancy said in a text message. Dowless had pleaded guilty last June in federal court to obtaining illegal Social Security benefits while concealing payments for political work he performed.

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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 31 | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2022

Twin City Herald

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Celebrating a big hit

Walkertown Wolfpack bench greets #10 Clifton Olmedo after hitting a 2 run home run against Wheatmore Warriors during the Asheboro Zookeepers Invitational at Southwestern Randolph High School in Asheboro, on April 14, 2022.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Black is Beautiful Bridal Show schedule for May 7 Forsyth County The Buy Black Guide, Pretty Southern Soul Catering and S.G. Atkins Community Development Corporation are holding the Black is Beautiful Bridal Show at Winston-Salem’s Enterprise Event and Conference Center on May 7. The event is a showcase for black-owned wedding businesses. There will be opportunities to meet face-to-face with vendors, as well as giveaways and live entertainment. EVENT BRITE

May Kay Andrews to highlight Mother’s Day lunch Forsyth County Tickets are still available for a Mother’s Day lunch with renowned author Mary Kay Andrews at Winston-Salem’s Reynolds Place Theater on May 8. The event, hosted by Bookmarks, celebrates Andrews’ book The Homewreckers. Attendees will get an autographed copy of the book, a lunch from Mrs. Pumpkins and an author talk and book signing afterward. EVENT BRITE

35th annual used book sale scheduled for Fairgrounds Forsyth County Winston-Salem will hold the 35th annual used book sale at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds’ Education Building May 5 through 7. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Shepherd’s Center, which provided services to over 6,800 individuals last year. The center will use the money to provide programs and services to older adults in the WinstonSalem Community. DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

20177 52016 $0.50

Roy Cooper visits Salem Academy & College for Historic Week School turns 250, inaugurates new president Twin City Herald staff SALEM ACADEMY and College celebrated a historic week last week, as the school marked its 250th anniversary last week, and also inaugurated the 22nd president in the institution’s history. Salem is the oldest educational institution for girls and women in America and is actually older than America by five years. It was founded in 1772, five years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper paid the school a visit to speak at the Salem Academy and College’s Health Leadership Forum, the day before the Founders Day celebration. “250 years of Salem,” Cooper said to open his remarks. “That is amazing. That deserves celebration. It’s so exciting what’s going on here.” Cooper recalled his previous visit to the school, for Governors’ School in 2019. “It’s so exciting, what’s going on here,” he said. “When you think about 250 years of history here, the many women that left these halls and had so much impact on this community, on our state and the world. And when you think about it, Salem’s history is our history. We’ve had

our ups and downs, but both of us have always stepped up to meet the moment.” While Cooper joined the school in looking back on its quarter millennium of history, he also realized that the inauguration of new school president, Dr. Summer McGee, PhD, CPH. “I do think it’s appropriate and amazing to bask in the glow of Salem’s historic past. It’s important to take the time to do that,” Cooper said. “I’m glad this celebration is happening. But I’m even more excited about its future. Look at all the potential in this student body.” McGee shared Cooper’s optimism both in looking back and forward. “Salem Academy and College are institutions with a rich history of boldness and innovation,” she said. “Our founding was based on disruption, pushing the boundaries of what education was and who could access it. … Looking to the future, Salem will reach new student populations, develop new programs and expand opportunities to grow our student body. Our goal is to reach new audiences and tell the story of Salem that includes brilliant students and engaged faculty. “ As a speaker at the school’s inaugural Health Leadership Forum, which highlighted women in health leadership roles, Cooper also discussed issues in the field of health care. Obvi-

PHOTO VIA SALEM ACADEMY

"Dr. Summer McGee was inaugurated as the 22nd president in the history is Salem Academy and College. ously, topping the list was the COVID-19 pandemic. “I came into this office with a lot of excitement,” he said. “I had a long checklist of challenges, and global pandemic was not on there anywhere.” Cooper pointed out that North Carolina is one of the states with the lowest per capita death rates and job loss rates in the U.S. “We valued people’s lives first, but we also valued their livelihoods,” he said.

2 arrested in fatal shooting at arcade The Associated Press WINSTON-SALEM — Two men have been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting at an arcade in North Carolina, police said. Winston-Salem police said Friday that Reginald Anthony Williams, 25, is charged with

murder, and Nautica Shanice Baldwin, 26, is charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, news outlets reported. According to an arrest warrant, Williams is accused of killing Arthur Little, 52, who was shot inside the arcade on Wednesday. When officers arrived, they found Little unre-

sponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Baldwin is accused of stealing $420 from Little that same day after she threatened the victim with a handgun, her arrest warrant said. Another man was taken to a local hospital with a leg injury, but police haven’t identified him.

"I'm glad this celebration is happening, but I'm even more excited about Salem's future" Gov. Roy Cooper

Williams was jailed without bond. Police said bond for Baldwin was set at $25,000. Both are scheduled to appear in a Forsyth County court on Monday. It was not immediately known if they have attorneys. Police didn’t describe the relationship between Williams and Baldwin. Little’s death is the city’s 13th homicide in Winston-Salem this year, compared to eight homicides at the same time in 2021, police said.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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COLUMN | ERICK ERICKSON

The certitude of ineptitude

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. (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: Send address changes to: North State Journal

1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

I REALLY AM FLUMMOXED by the ineptitude of President Joe Biden and his chief of staff, Ron Klain. Biden has been a Washington politician for half a century, including eight years as vice president and before that a senior senator. Klain is a consummate Washington insider, having worked for Janet Reno, Al Gore, Biden and others. How are they this inept? Last summer, the border got swamped with migrants. They sent Vice President Kamala Harris south of the border and the situation never improved. Activists accused border patrol agents of whipping refugees with horsewhips. The White House condemned the act. But an investigation recently revealed no immigrants were whipped. White House staff have declined to apologize for believing the allegation. Many border patrol agents are Hispanic. The criticisms of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the border patrol by the left are criticisms of Hispanic voters and their families — a constituency the Democrats are losing. But the White House seems openly hostile to both. Now, having seen what monsoon of migrants the summer brought last year, the Biden administration is preparing for the expiration of Title 42. The pandemic is receding. Title 42 can be deployed as a health care power so long as the pandemic is at the forefront. It allows the surgeon general to keep people from entering the United States due to a health care crisis. With a receding pandemic, Title 42 has to go away. It’s only a matter of time before some enterprising Trump judge scraps it to exacerbate the political problems for Biden. Here’s the thing: How are we in April of 2022 in a midterm election and the White House clearly has no plan to deal with the surge of illegal immigrants and expiration of Title 42? Their own polling shows this issue is pushing Hispanic voters to the GOP and they’ve got nothing. They have had plenty of time to prepare and did nothing to prepare. How are they this inept? The Biden administration was caught flat-footed on Ukraine too. They knew the Russians would invade. They chose to provide Ukraine help but have constantly scaled back their original offers. The administration has

slow-walked intelligence to Ukraine, putting the Republicans in a more pro-Ukraine position than Biden. Biden has accused Russia of genocide and then taken no actions equal to the accusation. Just last week, the United States promised helicopters on a Thursday and walked back the promise that same Friday. How are they this inept? Then there is the mask issue. They could have let it expire a few weeks ago and taken the credit. Instead, a federal judge in Florida threw it out. Then Joe Biden himself said people should have the choice whether they want to wear a mask or not. Less than six hours later, his administration decided to appeal to get the mask mandate reinstated. But they are not going to ask for its immediate reinstatement. Instead, they’re going to ask for the authority to be able to reimpose it in the future. So, in other words, Biden could have canceled the mask mandate a few weeks ago, rendered the court case moot, preserved the power to reimpose it and taken credit for its end. But Biden and Klain did not. Instead, they will now ask a court to preserve power for the organization that insists you not eat raw cookie dough and cook your steak to an internal temperature of 145 F. How are they this inept? Between the border, Ukraine and the masks, they really have no plans for governing. They have just decided to perpetuate the status quo of their own making in the hope that something shakes out. They are careening from crisis to crisis, two clowns in bumper cars colliding with crises of their own creation. The best they have going now are their pundit partisans lamenting that really Biden is a victim of circumstance unable to control anything. And that is not much of a defense. Some might say this is all part of some elaborate plan, but the Republicans are about to wipe them out. That is most assuredly not part of the plan. How are they this inept?

DEATH NOTICES

♦ George L. “Buck” Brannock, 92, of WinstonSalem, died April 20, 2022.

♦ Donna Mullins Cable, 69, died April 24, 2022.

♦ Joan Tuttle Brown, 76, of Forsyth County, died April 22, 2022.

♦ Peggy “Colene” Stone Crouse, 88, of WinstonSalem, died April 21, 2022.

♦ Emily Shaffner Burge, 90, of Winston-Salem, died April 22, 2022.

♦ Evelyn Dianne Dunlap, 75, of Winston-Salem, April 21, 2022.

♦ James Archer “Jimmy” Butler, 71, of WinstonSalem, died April 23,

♦ R B Fox died April 24, 2022.

2022.

♦ Patricia Gail Gartin, 71, of

Winston-Salem, died April 23, 2022. ♦ Thomas Franklin Hauser, Jr., 80, of Forsyth County, died April 25, 2022. ♦ Joanne Jacob Huddleston, 88, of Pfafftown, died April 21, 2022. ♦ Patricia “Kiki” Hutcheson, 81, of Winston-Salem, died April 21, 2022. ♦ Rachel Eddinger James, 97, of Winston Salem, died

April 23, 2022. ♦ Lucy Boykin Lindsey, 81, of Winston-Salem, died April 21, 2022. ♦ Daniel R. Long, 75, of Winston-Salem, died April 24, 2022. ♦ Sherry C. Penn-Lane, 59, of Winston-Salem, died April 22, 2022. ♦ Dottie Lou Flynt Petree, 95, of Bermuda Run, died April 22, 2022.

♦ Frances Anderson Reece, 88, of Greensboro, died April 21, 2022. ♦ Edward Theodore Rose, 76, died April 20, 2022. ♦ Regina Naomi Christy Walters, 106, of Forsyth County, died April 21, 2022. ♦ Novella Mary Searcy Watkins, 89, of Kernersville, died April 22, 2022.

WEEKLY CRIME LOG ♦ Analco Martinez, Evelina (F/40) Arrest on chrg of 1) 90-95h3 Traff Cocaine (F), 2) 90-95h3 Traff Cocaine (F), and 3) 9095h3 Traff Cocaine (F), at 927 Crowder St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/21/2022 15:00. ♦ Blankenship, Patricia Martin (F/66) Arrest on chrg of 1) Probation Violation (M), 2) Probation Violation (M), and 3) Fail To Appear/compl (M), at 4259 Thomasville Rd, Winstonsalem, NC, on 4/20/2022 01:24. ♦ Bortz, Ian Michael (M/43) Arrest on chrg of 1) Rec/ poss Stole Mv (F), 2) Drugsmfg Sched Ii (F), 3) Drugsposs Sched Ii (F), 4) Drug Paraphernalia (M), 5) Weapposs By Felon (F), 6) Ccw (M), 7) Weap-poss By Felon (F), 8) Ccw (M), and 9) Speeding Posted (M), at 5900 Germanton Rd, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/24/2022 19:51. ♦ BRYANT, CHAMARAY DEVON was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 1522 N LIBERTY ST on 4/25/2022 ♦ Conrad, Earl Douglas (M/28) Arrest on chrg of Misuse Of 911 System (M), at 3410 Olivers Crossing Dr, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/21/2022 17:25. ♦ COWAN, LAKESHA SHERELLE was arrested on a charge of MURDER-FIRST DEG at 119 HARRET ST on 4/25/2022 ♦ CULLER, DALTON MILES was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 201 N CHURCH ST on 4/24/2022

♦ DELOOPER, NORMAN BISHOP was arrested on a charge of DRUGS-POSS SCHED II at 2985 FAIRLAWN DRIVE on 4/25/2022

♦ HILL, TERRI EDWARDS was arrested on a charge of VAND-PERSONAL PROP at 1617 ASHLEY SCHOOL CR on 4/23/2022

♦ DIAZ GOMEZ, CARLOS GEOVANY was arrested on a charge of COMM LAW ROBBERY at 312 PEDEN ST on 4/24/2022

♦ Holland, Marke Jama (M/20) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assault On Female (M), 2) Larceny/ misdemeanor (M), and 3) Fail To Appear/compl (M), at 301 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/20/2022 12:20.

♦ FERGUSON, DEVARYA JARAE was arrested on a charge of DRUNK / DISRUPTIVE at 3063 HEITMAN DR on 4/25/2022 ♦ GAITHER, TEVIN ALEXANDER was arrested on a charge of ALTER, DESTRUCT, REMOVE SERIAL NUMBER FIREARM; POSS FIREARM at 201 N CHURCH ST on 4/23/2022 ♦ GALLOWAY, STARTRICE MARINA was arrested on a charge of VANDREAL PROPERTY at 5719 UNIVERSITY PW on 4/23/2022 ♦ GARCIARENDON, MAYRA LOREIMI was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 3721 KONNOAK DR on 4/24/2022 ♦ Green, Leonard Richard (M/28) Arrest on chrg of Assault On Female (M), at 201 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/25/2022 00:01. ♦ HARDISON, KYLE MYCHAL was arrested on a charge of VANDPERSONAL PROP at 1273 STONEFIELD CROSSING CT on 4/24/2022 ♦ HICKS, DARRIS JUSTINKELLY was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 201 N CHURCH ST on 4/23/2022

♦ Huffin, Latonya Ann (F/33) Arrest on chrg of Ofa/ftasimple Assault, M (M), at 200 N Main St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/21/2022 11:55. ♦ Jacinto Agustin, Danny (M/22) Arrest on chrg of Ccw, M (M), at 1200 Whicker Rd, Kernersville, NC, on 4/22/2022 00:09. ♦ JEANPIERRE, SOPHIA CLAIRE was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 311 N MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DR on 4/24/2022 ♦ Joseph, Collin Quinn (M/27) Arrest on chrg of 1) P/w/i/s/d Marijuana (F) and 2) Drug Paraphernalia (M), at 4950 Hauser Dr, Pfafftown, NC, on 4/20/2022 00:43. ♦ King, Britt Lee (M/46) Arrest on chrg of 1) Breaking/larc-felony (F), 2) Breaking/larc-felony (F), 3) Breaking/larc-felony (F), 4) Larceny After B&e (F), 5) Larceny After B&e (F), and 6) Larceny After B&e (F), at 201 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/20/2022 11:35. ♦ LEWIS, CHEVELLA NICOLE was arrested on a charge of CHILD ABUSE at 2445 FAIRLAWN CT

on 4/23/2022 ♦ Lindsey, Rodney Delane (M/38) Arrest on chrg of 1) Failing To Stop At The Appropriate Marked Stop Line (M) and 2) Speeding To Elude Arrest (M), at 201 N Church St, Winstonsalem, NC, on 4/21/2022 12:00 ♦ Lowery, Loria Danice (F/46) Arrest on chrg of 1) Adw Inflict Injury (M), 2) Affray (M), and 3) 2nd Degree Trespass (M), at 6121 Cain Forest Dr, Walkertown, NC, on 4/21/2022 13:47. ♦ LYLES, DARRELL ANDRE was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 1305 N LIBERTY ST on 4/25/2022 ♦ MEADOWS, DEVIN DEWAYNE was arrested on a charge of DRUGS-POSS SCHED I at 550 N MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DR on 4/25/2022 ♦ REYESLOPEZ, ROSALBA ELIZABETH was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 3721 KONNOAK DR on 4/24/2022 ♦ RICHARDSON, AARON DWAYNE was arrested on a charge of P/W/I/S/D MARIJUANA at 2505 LEWIS ST on 4/23/2022 ♦ SESSOMS, BRIAN JEROME was arrested on a charge of DRUGS-POSS SCHED VI at 1399 PETERS CREEK PW/LINK RD on 4/24/2022 ♦ Shrewsbury, James Paul (M/35) Arrest on chrg of Vio. Protective Order By Courts Another State/ Indian Tribe (M), at 7475 Olin Rd, Pfafftown, NC,

on 4/25/2022 00:30. ♦ SMITH, SHAREISE ERVINETTE was arrested on a charge of AFFRAY at 1300 HOUSTON ST/ DUDLEY ST on 4/24/2022 ♦ Thomas, Ryan Charles (M/33) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assault On Female (M) and 2) Fail To Appear/compl (M), at 3115 Mountain Brook Tl, Winstonsalem, NC, on 4/23/2022 20:57. ♦ Walker, Shanesha Denise (F/28) Arrest on chrg of Affray (M), at 201 N Church St, Winstonsalem, NC, on 4/20/2022 21:25. ♦ Williamson, Scott Reed (M/42) Arrest on chrg of 1) 2nd Degree Trespass (M) and 2) Resisting Arrest (M), at 407 Arpeace Ln, Kernersville, NC, on 4/24/2022 11:51. ♦ Willis, Phillip Wise (M/24) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assaultpoint Gun (M) and 2) Assaultpoint Gun (M), at 200 N Main St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/21/2022 11:40. ♦ Wilson, Dequantes Lamond (M/21) Arrest on chrg of 1) Asslt On Off/st Emp (M), 2) Asslt On Off/st Emp (M), 3) Resisting Arrest (M), and 4) Resisting Arrest (M), at 201 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/23/2022 21:31. ♦ Woodard, James Lee (M/34) Arrest on chrg of Communicate Threats (M), at 150 Hanes Mall Cr, Winston-salem, NC, on 4/21/2022 19:59.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

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