North State Journal Vol. 8, Issue 25

the BRIEF this week

Bishop raises over $900k since launching attorney general campaign

Waxhaw

Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop’s (R-NC-08) campaign for North Carolina Attorney General released its 10-day organizational fundraising report on Monday.

Bishop reported raising over $900,000 during the 10-day period, which the campaign said it believes is the most ever raised for a statewide campaign during an organizational reporting period.

“North Carolinians are as determined as I am to end the 128-year Democrat stranglehold on the attorney general’s office. Voters want our state’s chief law enforcement officer to restore law and order by safeguarding the public, keeping criminals behind bars and relentlessly backing our great prosecutors and law enforcement officers,” Bishop said in a statement.

NSJ STAFF

Tickets for the 2023 NC State Fair now available

Raleigh

Tickets for the upcoming 2023 NC State Fair are now available for purchase through Oct. 12.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth ages 6-12.

One-day unlimited ride wristbands are also available for purchase online at a cost of $30 each. Ride ticket credits will be $10 for 18 ticket credits during the advance sale timeframe.

Ride ticket credits for this year’s fair will be on a “chipped card” that will automatically debit the ticket count for that ride. Additionally, hang on to those cards because ride credits will now carry over from year-toyear.

Special themed ticket packages offered this year include:

Dizzy Pass – One gate admission ticket and one unlimited ride wristband for $38

Kegs & Cork Pass – One gate admission ticket, one NC Public House beer + wine ticket for $17 State Fair Flyer Package –Two gate admission tickets and two round-trip State Fair Flyer tickets for $34 State Fair SkyGazer – One gate admission ticket and one State Fair SkyGazer ticket for $14

More information on this year’s NC State Fair can be found at their website: https:// www.ncstatefair.org/2023/ index.htm

NSJ STAFF

Trump indicted a fourth time

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Fueled by continued inflation, school supplies for the 2023-24 school year will be the costliest ever, according to a press release by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Inflation had been decreasing over the last year but spiked again by 3.5% in July according to the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Consumer Price Index report.

“Back-to-school spending is expected to reach an unparalleled $41.5 billion, up from $36.9 billion last year and the previous high of $37.1 billion in 2021,” the NRF press release says of its annual survey. “Backto-college spending is expected to hit $94 billion, about $20 billion more than last year’s re -

UNCW professor garners international attention for UFO research

By Griffin Daughtry North

Journal

State

WILMINGTON — Is the truth out there? Even if it is, the study of UFOs was long considered a professional risk until Ralph Blumenthal and Leslie Kean’s coverage of the Pentagon’s black-budget research program brought unprecedented legitimacy to the topic in December 2017.

And yet, that didn’t stop Dr. Diana Walsh Pasulka — a professor of religious studies at the Universi-

ty of North Carolina Wilmington — from exploring the subject for herself as early as 2012. Well before there were headlines about UFO whistleblowers or congressional hearings, Pasulka was cataloging reports of unexplained aerial phenomena, not from the remote areas of New Mexico but rather in the skies over medieval and Renaissance Europe. At the time, she was researching for what would later become “Heaven Can

cord.”

The overall spending this year is a 12% increase over the previous year.

According to NRF’s survey, families with kids in K-12 should plan to spend “an average of $890.07 on back-toschool items this year,” which the group says is “approximately $25 more than last year’s record of $864.35 and a new high.”

The survey this year included 7,843 consumers and was administered from June 30 to July 6. The margin of error was plus or minus 1.1 percentage points.

Last year’s back-to-school spending for K-12 gave many families sticker shock with parents estimated to spend an average of $864, which was $15

See SUPPLIES , page A2

Action on proposed changes put on hold

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — More than a hundred concealed carry firearms instructors filled the meeting room to oppose three proposed rules by the North Carolina Department of Justice’s Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission at the commission’s Aug. 9 meeting.

Commission Chair Leslie Desmukes noted the unusually large attendance in her opening remarks to the meeting. In addition to chairing the commission, Desmukes is the criminal bureau chief at the N.C. Department of Justice and was featured in a March 2023 tweet by N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein highlighting Women’s History Month.

According to the original public notice on the NC DOJ’s Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards website, the amendments were being proposed for “Subchapter 09F-Section .0100 of the NC Administrative Code” which governs concealed carry training.

The public notice included three

forms, a “pre-delivery report” and a “post-delivery report” of the training and a “concealed carry handgun student roster” form. Under the administrative code for CHP training, instructors are already required to file a copy of the proposed firearms “course description, outline, and proof of instructor certification,” making the NCDOJ’s proposed forms seem duplicative. The proposed changes were supposed to occur in the second half of the meeting, but the schedule was changed by Desmukes after an attendee asked the rule changes to be dealt with at the beginning of the meeting due to many people having driven hours and hundreds of miles to be there.

Desmukes told the attendees “some revisions” to the proposed rules had been made since first being posted online. She said the revisions made had “been based on discussions with the field, taking feedback from instructors,” and as the result of “negotiations” at a meeting with Grassroots NC and Republican legislator Rep. Keith Kidwell.

The changes included reducing the 30-day window to file the preand post-delivery reports down to

See FIREARMS , page A2

Concealed carry instructors push back on proposed rules at public hearing

National Retail Federation: 2023 school supplies will be costliest ever

AP PHOTOS

Top right, Manhattan, N.Y. District Attorney Alvin Bragg, top left, Special Counsel Jack Smith, bottom right, former President Donald Trump, bottom right, Fulton County, Ga. district attorney Fani Willis. On Monday, Aug. 14, 2023, Trump and 18 others were indicted over the 2020 election results in the state of Georgia. Trump now faces four separate criminal cases as he continues to lead polls in the 2024 Republican presidential primaries.

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Diana Walsh Pasulka is a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

“One of One”

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more than they spent in 2021. Average spending in 2021 came in at around $848, $59 more than was spent in 2020.

N RF reports that increased spending this year is “primarily driven by more demand for electronics,” with 69% of families expected to buy electronics such as computers; the highest rates in the survey’s history. The rate for electronics purchases last year was 65%.

A July report by e-commerce group Pattern showed individual

Jeremiah 50:38

Have we not all in our various ways, set up some beloved idol . . . something which engaged our affections, occupied our thoughts, to which we devoted all the energies of our minds, for which we were willing to labor night and day?

Be it money, power, esteem of men, respectability, worldly comfort, literary knowledge, there was a secret setting up of SELF in one or more of its various forms, and a bowing down to it as an idol.

The man of business makes money his god. The man of pleasure makes the lust of the flesh his god. The proud man makes his adored SELF his god. The Pharisee makes selfrighteousness his god. The Arminian makes free-will his god. The Calvinist makes dry doctrine his god.

All in one way or other, however they may differ in the object of their idolatrous worship, agree in this: that they give a preference in their esteem and affection to their peculiar idol, above the one true God

“Idols will be utterly abolished and destroyed.” Isaiah 2:18

There is, then, a time to break down these idols which our fallen nature has set up.

school supply staples have all increased, such as graph paper up nearly 18%, folders up 13% and crayons jumping almost 12%.

Families wanting to cut costs may avail themselves of deals online or by hitting their local dollar store. North State Journal found a deal on a 32-piece “Back to School Supply Box Grades K-5” on Amazon going for $29.99. Similar supply bundles on Amazon containing folders, composition notebooks, pens, pencils, glue, rulers and other items ran anywhere from $20 to $50.

NRF’s survey expects spending

And have not we experienced some measure of this breaking down, both externally and internally?

Have not our idols been in a measure smashed before our eyes, our prospects in life cut up and destroyed, our airy visions of earthly happiness and our romantic paradises dissolved into thin air, our creature-hopes dashed, our youthful affections blighted, and the objects from which we had fondly hoped to reap an enduring harvest of delight removed from our eyes?

by families with college students to set a new record. Those families are estimated to spend an average of $1,366.95 per student. In 2022, that spending was $1,199.43 per student. The previous record high was in 2021 at $1,200.32. Additionally, NRF notes that back-tocollege spending has nearly doubled since 2019. School supplies for classroom use are not the only costs hitting family wallets. Clothing prices are also up over last year, with clothes for girls increasing by 7.2% and boys’ apparel costing 3.4% more compared to last July.

And likewise, as to our religion . . . our good opinion of ourselves, piety and holiness, wisdom and knowledge, understanding and abilities, consistency and uprightness; have they not all been broken down, and made a heap of ruins before our eyes?

Joseph Charles Philpot (1802-1869) was an influential English preacher and theologian who served as editor of the Baptist magazine The Gospel Standard for 20 years. His works are now in the public domain.

Back to school supplies are on sale at an Office Max store.

seven days.

Desmukes noted the requirement of submitting student rosters was “changed significantly.” The original proposal would have required instructors to submit student names and emails. The revised proposal now would have those rosters kept by the instructor for 24 months and would only need to be produced “for inspection” with regard to an investigation or audit being conducted.

She also said the division would “destroy” the roster at the conclusion of an audit or investigation and that such rosters are not a public record.

In her remarks giving reasons for the forms being proposed, Desmukes said it was due to incidents where an instructor had sold certificates out of his truck and one had taught a course while allegedly intoxicated.

“We have had lots of recent allegations against instructors,” Desmukes said, later adding, “It can be dangerous for all citizens if instructors are not following the rules.”

Common themes among the more than 30 citizens who made public comments at the meeting included viewing the pre-and post-delivery forms as a time and cost burden as well as good instructors being punished for the actions of bad instructors.

Speakers also argued the pre-delivery form was unworkable and that many times training sessions are set up within a day or two, especially in the case of domestic violence victims with special orders to take training as immediately as possible.

At least half that gave comments pushed back on the idea of keeping a roster with some claiming it violated federal privacy laws by collecting Personally Identifiable Information, or PII.

Paul Valone, director of Grassroots North Carolina, the state’s largest firearms advocacy group, was one of those who spoke during the public comments portion of the meeting. He, along with most of the speakers, opposed all three

of the proposed rule changes.

“We oppose anything that makes it more difficult to get a permit, including obstruction of training,” Valone said.

Valone also countered Desmukes’ earlier statements about the changes made to the proposed rules.

“Now, with respect to the meeting the other day with Rep. Kidwell, perhaps you misunderstood our position — we were not there to negotiate,” said Valone. “We were there to observe. And so consequently, although I appreciate you have reduced this pre-delivery report from 30 to seven days, that’s not enough.”

Valone went on to say the only thing his organization supported would be to make the pre- and post-delivery submitted electronically on an “as available basis” for instructors to have the flexibility needed to hold impromptu classes.

“The fact is that many people who take concealed carry classes

don’t have any intention of getting a permit,” Valone said in opposition to the student roster proposal.

“The state has no business having access to their names. None whatsoever. And, in fact, attorneys advise us that keeping this list, this roster may be an infringement of the 1st Amendment; freedom of association.”

Valone added that if the roster stays in place when this final rule is issued, “we will avail ourselves of North Carolina General Statute 150B- 21.3 and demand a legislative review.” At least a third of those in attendance at the meeting were women, including Heather Allen, an instructor from Surf City who moved to North Carolina from California where she had also taught basic handgun lessons and worked for California Rifle Pistol Association.

“What scares me is that the Second Amendment in California is completely on life support. It’s been a slow death by a thousand

cuts,” Allen told the commission.

“So when I see these [proposed rule changes], my first question is what are the next infringements?

What are the next rules?”

Rhonda Allen, an NRA-appointed training counselor, concealed carry instructor and the owner/manager of Armed Angels Training, spoke with North State Journal during a break in the meeting.

“It is just an oppressive rule,” Allen told North State Journal about the class size reporting form.

“And I think the majority of the concealed carry gun instructors in this state are professional and have integrity, and we’re doing the job correctly and we don’t need to be punishing the majority for the few.” She also said she doesn’t understand the “purpose or the point of getting just numbers only.”

“It’s just another erosion, you know, coming at it from a different point of view, and attack on our

Second Amendment rights,” said Allen. “They attack the guns, they attack ammo, they attack classes, they attack everything to do with self-protection, and I’m here to fight back against that.”

When asked, Allen agreed the new rules would impact domestic violence victims who are mainly females.

“I do specialize in teaching females, especially at the state and national level, with Armed Women of America,” Allen said. “And there are a lot of instances of domestic violence victims, and they do need training and sometimes they need it very quickly. So we would not have the opportunity to give any prior notice and then therefore would be in violation of these onerous, oppressive, weak rules.

“In my opinion, they serve no purpose, and that’s why I see it as just a means of pushing out the small instructor — the less people that are teaching it, the less permits that will be issued, the less opportunity our citizens have to protect themselves. And I see this as an infringement on our rights.”

Another item repeated in multiple public comments was the cost of the “Red Book,” the concealed carry training manual produced by the state that instructors are required to use. Currently, the book costs $8.75 plus shipping and handling.

Several speakers requested that the book be digitized and made publicly available online for free. One of the speakers said they had asked for the state’s cost to print the book and was given an invoice showing a batch of 5,000 produced at a state prison at a cost of just $3.26 each.

The commission met again Aug. 11 and heard updates from the Planning and Standards Committee and approve continued work on the language in the delivery reports and student roster form. Following a brief vote on the matter, the commission said it would spend the coming months gathering information and having discussions with more stakeholders before taking any action at its next meeting in November.

“Because the whole land is filled with idols, and the people are madly in love with them.”

SUPPLIES from page A1

A.P. DIILLON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Attendees seated at the Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Raleigh.

FIREARMS from page A1

PUBLIC DOMAINL

“Moses Smashing the Tablets of the Law” by Rembrandt (1659) is a painting in the collection of The Gemäldegalerie, Berlin.

The Associated Press RALEIGH — A national political movement that could offer an independent presidential ticket in 2024 as an alternative to major-party nominees said Monday it has now won ballot access in 10 states, after North Carolina election officials formally granted official status to a “No Labels” affiliate.

The State Board of Elections voted 4-1 on Sunday to recognize the No Labels Party as an official North Carolina party following a successful petition effort. It joins four other recognized parties with which voters can now choose to be registered and field candidates.

The new North Carolina party is linked to a national No Labels effort that lists a wide array of mostly centrist political leaders backing it. They include ex-North Carolina GOP Gov. Pat McCrory, U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman, a former Democrat who became an independent. No Labels is poised to offer an independent ticket for president and vice president if Democrats and Republicans “select unreasonably divisive presidential nominees.” North Carolina, usually considered a battleground state, has 16 electoral votes at stake.

The other states are Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota and Utah.

Reaching 10 states is “a historic victory for Americans who have said loud and clear they want more choices at the ballot box. The spirit of democracy is winning in America today,” civil rights leader Benjamin Chavis, a North Carolina native and national co-chair of No Labels, said in a news release Monday.

There is no named ticket yet for No Labels. Group leaders have

said it would stand down if there’s no clear path to victory next year. But some Democrats are worried that won’t happen, leading unintentionally to the election of Republican Donald Trump. National left-leaning groups have been working to derail the group’s presidential ambitions.

North Carolina law says that to be recognized, a party must collect signatures from registered voters equal to 0.25% of the total number of people who voted in the last election for governor in

2020, or just under 13,900 signatures. State election officials agreed that No Labels provided over 14,800 signatures and met a requirement that at least 200 signatures each come from three congressional districts.

The other official North Carolina parties are the Democratic, Republican, Green and Libertarian parties. Voters also can register as unaffiliated, which represents the largest bloc in the state. Board Chair Alan Hirsch and

member Jeff Carmon, both Democrats, joined Republicans Four Eggers and Kevin Lewis in voting for the official recognition. Democratic member Siobhan O’Duffy Millen voted no.

The official recognition followed questions seeking more information on No Labels, particularly its affiliation with the national movement and whether it truly met the definition of a party.

The board also was interested in whether the party’s signature collectors properly informed sign-

“A historic victory for Americans who have said loud and clear they want more choices at the ballot box. The spirit of democracy is winning in America today.”

No Labels national co-chair Benjamin Chavis

ers of the “general purpose and intent” of the party, as state law requires.

No Labels presented affidavits from collectors stating that they were instructed to share in part it was a party “to bring all the parties together to get things done in Washington through a unity ticket” and that the petition “allows a third party to run candidates in the presidential election.”

But Millen said the evidence wasn’t strong enough and questioned whether the No Labels Party of North Carolina met the party definition.

She pointed to media reports quoting national No Labels leaders saying they wouldn’t field candidates up and down ballots and that operations would end after the November 2024 elections.

“It seems to me that North Carolina law does not adequately address this novel situation” when the goal of such a group is to secure a spot in one election instead of becoming an ongoing party, Millen said.

While the national No Labels group is organized under a section of federal tax law in which it now doesn’t have to disclose its donors, the state affiliate would have to follow state campaign finance disclosure rules, as the other recognized parties must do.

Eggers, who made the motion to recognize the No Labels Party, said he shared some of Millen’s concerns. But he said there appeared to be no dispute that the party met the numerical signature threshold and the standard to meet “general purpose and intent” requirement was quite low.

Settlement leads

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey announced on Aug. 8 a settlement has been made with the North Carolina Rate Bureau over its auto insurance rate increase request.

On Feb. 1, the N.C. Rate Bureau had requested a statewide increase of 28.4% for personal auto rates as well as a 4.7% increase in motorcycle liability rates. The Rate Bureau is not a part of the state’s insurance agency but instead represents the North Carolina insurance industry.

The settlement negotiated by Causey will be an average statewide auto rate increase of 9%, which will be implemented with a 4.5% hike in 2023 and 4.5% more in 2024. Per the agreement, motorcycle liability will increase by 4.6% over the same time frame.

According to Causey’s release, the settlement is “about two-thirds less than the insurance companies

Insurance Commissioner

had requested” and will “save driv-

ers approximately $1.6 billion over the next two years” compared to the Rate Bureau’s original request. Under the settlement, there can be no additional increases before Oct. 1, 2025.

“I’m proud that North Carolina is consistently among the lowest annual average rates for private passenger vehicles in the nation,” Causey said in a statement. “In re-

cent years, we’ve seen some rate increases due to more accidents and fatalities in North Carolina. This can be attributed to factors such as excessive speeding and driving under the influence. However, the number one cause of accidents and, thus, rate increases, is distracted driving.”

The commissioner’s statement cites a 2023 study from U.S. News and World Report ranking North Carolina as the sixth lowest state in average annual automobile insurance costs.

“It is unlikely that we will see rate decreases in the future unless some of these trends change,” said Causey. “Drivers and driving habits impact the rates the most, in addition to increased repair costs due to excessive inflation. We don’t wish for any rate increases but we are doing everything we can to protect consumers.”

An Oct. 16 hearing on the auto insurance rate increase has been canceled as a result of the settlement.

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — After three years of its affairs being handled by the state, Robersonville may be regaining fiscal control, according to discussions at the Aug. 1 meeting of the Local Government Commission (LGC)

The LGC assumed control of the town’s finances in 2020. LGC members were told during the meeting that Robersonville has “addressed financial and operational shortcomings.”

While Robersonville appears to be on the right path, the Town of Eureka, located in Wayne County, is still having issues.

The LGC began handling Eureka’s fiscal matters in 2019 and, according to a press release, the town is “struggling with sewer issues that further threaten the town’s already strained viability,” and that the “LGC staff is exploring short-term and long-term solutions.”

Other agenda items approved by the LGC included:

• $19.5 million in financing for public services facilities in Mint Hill, located in Mecklenburg and Union counties.

• $15 million installment purchase in Rutherford County to build and equip a 22,500-square-foot transportation and maintenance facility, and to repurpose the gym in a former middle school.

• $11.2 million in State Revolving Fund loans for Pender County to meet peak water demands in the Scott’s Hill Water and Sewer District.

• $8.3 million for Johnston County to build a new wastewater treatment facility to replace aging facilities adjacent to the county landfill.

• $6 million for Edenton in Chowan County to obtain U.S. Department of Agriculture revenue bonds for water and sewer projects.

• $5.2 million to the city of Reidsville in Rockingham County for a State Revolving Fund loan to replace the system that diverts and channels water, as well as equipment, at the Reidsville Wastewater Treatment Plant that is below the 100-year flood elevation.

• $525,000 installment purchase for the town of Selma in Johnston County to buy a one-story Interstate Outdoor building for town office space since the current town hall has hit its capacity.

• $125,000 installment purchase project for the town of Warrenton in Warren County for paving land to serve as a public parking lot.

• $50 million in general obligation bonds for Durham County to permanently finance construction projects in 14 distressed local government units.

LGC members were told during the meeting that Robersonville has “addressed financial and operational shortcomings.”

FILE PHOTO

People with the group No Labels hold signs during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

FILE PHOTO

Drivers navigate slippery conditions caused by freezing rain along Interstate 40/85 near Burlington.

“I’m proud that North Carolina is consistently among the lowest annual average rates for private passenger vehicles in the nation.”

Mike Causey

to 9% auto insurance rate increase, down from 28% ask by Rate Bureau

‘No Labels’ movement says it could offer independent presidential ticket in 2024

LGC: After three years, Robersonville may regain fiscal control

Murphy to Manteo Jones & Blount

NCDOT projects win regional awards

Three N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) projects recently received regional 2023 America’s Transportation Awards along with others in neighboring states.

The Southern Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (SASHTO) chose this year’s regional winners from a pool of 19 projects nominated by nine states in the region.

NCDOT submitted one project for each of the three contest groups and size categories, and all three won — the Rodanthe “Jug Handle” Bridge project (Operations Excellence, medium-sized project); the FIMAN-T flood warning system for transportation (Best Use of Technology & Innovation, small category) and the East End Connector, I-885 project (Quality of Life/Community Development, large category).

Nationwide, this year’s America’s Transportation Awards competition saw 81 nominations submitted by 36 state transportation departments.

Once the regional competitions are completed, 12 finalists composed of the three highest-scoring projects from each region will be revealed.

East End Connector, I-885 project

Those final projects will compete for the two 2023 America’s Transportation Awards national prizes. An impartial panel of judges will select the grand prize recipient, while the project that accumulates the highest number of online votes from the public will earn the People’s Choice Award. The winners will be announced in November.

WEST PIEDMONT EAST

Transylvania County Schools

providing free breakfast, lunch to students

Transylvania County

Transylvania County Schools recently sent out a letter to students’ parents notifying them of something special happening for the 202324 school year, which begins on Aug. 28: free meals.

“Every student will be provided breakfast and lunch each school day at no cost,” the letter said. “This is thanks to Transylvania County Schools participating in the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Programs and the USDA Community Eligibility Provision.”

The letter also said parents will not need to submit free and reduced lunch applications for the 2023-24 school year.

BLUE RIDGE NOW

NC State Bluegrass Festival returns to Marion McDowell County

The North Carolina State Bluegrass Festival will take the stage under the pavilion at Camping World of Marion.

Award-winning national music festival promoter Evans Media Source will present the event, featuring the best of bluegrass at Camping World of Marion from Aug. 17-19. The festival will be headlined by such stars as the Queen of Bluegrass, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage; The Malpass Brothers, Authentic Unlimited, Deeper Shade of Blue, Terry Baucom’s Dukes of Drive, Tim Graves & Farm Hands, Po’ Ramblin Boys, Nothin’ Fancy, Williamson Branch, Retro 78, Bandana Rhythm and Backline.

THE MCDOWELL NEWS

Deputies recover bodies of brothers who reportedly drowned in lake Swain County

The Swain County Sheriff’s Office said crews recovered the bodies of two brothers who reportedly drowned on Aug. 11.

Deputies said they responded to Fontana Lake near the T.A. Sandlin Bridge after the brothers were reported missing.

According to deputies, they searched the area throughout the evening but ended the search for the night at 8:30 p.m. due to darkness.

Deputies stated that they went back out to the area with the Henderson County Dive Team on Friday morning and later recovered the victims at around 1:45 p.m.

FOX CAROLINA

2 dead after plane crashes into Lake Hickory Catawba County

Two men who were killed when a small plane crashed into Lake Hickory on Sunday have been identified.

Multiple crews responded to a plane crash on Lake Hickory near Selkirk Drive in Catawba County around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to the Hickory Fire Department. A single-engine Super Petrel Amphibious Plane hit power lines and crashed just after leaving the Hickory Regional Airport.

Two men who were on board were killed in the crash. North Carolina State Highway Patrol identified the victims as 63-yearold Jeffrey Ray Cooley, of Granite Falls, and 49-year-old Brian Frank Miller, of Hickory. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating.

Community concern about potential casino near camp for children with disabilities

Rockingham County NC Development Holdings wants to rezone 192 acres of land on Highway 220 that borders the nearly 90-acre Camp Carefree sits on in western Rockingham County. “Where we do canoeing and fishing programs if the land is redeveloped then we may lose our pond which would result in our programs having to discontinue,” Ryan Joyce, Camp Carefree’s program director, said. The planning board denied the rezoning request last week with a 5-2 vote. The county board of commissioners has the final say, with a vote scheduled for Monday, Aug. 21.

Mebane man enjoys $100,000

Powerball win

Alamance County

WFMY

Alan Marro of Mebane took a chance on a $3 Power Play ticket and won a $100,000 prize in last Wednesday’s Powerball drawing.

Marro bought his lucky Quick Pick ticket using Online Play on the NC Lottery Official Mobile App. He matched the numbers on four white balls and the red Powerball to win $50,000. His prize doubled to $100,000 when the 2X multiplier hit. After required federal and state tax withholdings, Marro took home $71,251.

Powerball is one of six lottery games in North Carolina where players have the option of buying their tickets at a retail location or online.

NC EDUCATION LOTTERY

WCNC

Statesville Boys & Girls Club receives back-to-school donation

Iredell County MoneyLion teamed up with NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace and his nonprofit, The Live to Be Different Foundation, on a back-to-school initiative contributing $6,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of America in Statesville and a donation of backpacks and school supplies.

“It’s important these kids have everything they need to start the year off on the right foot,” Wallace said. “I commend MoneyLion for stepping up and making these school supplies one less thing families have to worry about as they prepare for the new school year.”

Retired health care executive running as a Republican in 2024 governor’s race

Wake County

A retired health care executive has entered next year’s race for North Carolina governor. Jesse Thomas describes himself as a “nononsense Republican” who aims to attract a broad middle ground of voters. Thomas joins an already crowded GOP gubernatorial field that includes Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson. Thomas’ resume lists a more than 30-year career in the health care industry. He led the Medicaid plan offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina to hundreds of thousands of consumers. Eliminating the state income tax and expanding alternatives to traditional public schools are in his platform.

NSJ

Country music singer behind viral video plays North Carolina show Currituck County Virginia singer Oliver Anthony, whose hit song “Rich Men North of Richmond” became an internet sensation in just days, played a scheduled show in Currituck County on Sunday. The viral song, which became a hit for its anti-establishment theme, has more than 10 million views on YouTube and the singer instantly gained tens of thousands of followers on social media. The instant fame of Anthony’s video made the show a must-see as fans swarmed the Morris Farm Market in the northeastern N.C. county. In a surprise appearance, Jamey Johnson came to the concert and joined Anthony on stage to perform his hit “In Color” at the show.

Deputies seize 100 grams of fentanyl in Beaufort County

Beaufort County

NSJ

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office says a drug bust in Edward turned up more than 100 grams of the powerful synthetic opioid known as fentanyl, an amount authorities said is enough to potentially kill over 50,000 people, which is more than the population of Beaufort County. On Aug. 2 deputies executed a search warrant in Edward, where they say the fentanyl was seized along with 28 grams of marijuana and a rifle. The three men arrested were taken to the Beaufort County Detention Center and face various drug charges.

AP

Approval sought for adult care home in Sneads Ferry

Onslow County Onslow Opco LLC and Onslow Propco LLC have filed a certificate of need application with the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services to relocate 40 adult care home beds from Onslow House to develop a new facility in Sneads Ferry — The Landings at Topsail Shores. The project is expected to cost $10.7 million and would be completed in September 2031. A public hearing for this project will be held Sept. 13 at 11 a.m. in the meeting room at Onslow Public Library at 58 Doris Ave. in Jacksonville.

NCDHHS

Penske Automotive Group acquires luxury auto dealerships in Wilmington New Hanover County Penske Automotive Group announced that it has acquired BMW of Wilmington and Porsche Wilmington. Both dealerships have earned their respective brand’s highest honor, with BMW of Wilmington designated as a BMW Center of Excellence and Porsche Wilmington designated as a Porsche Premier Dealer.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with these world class brands and further enhance our premium retail automotive brand mix in the southeast,” Penske Automotive Group Chair and CEO Roger Penske said. “The greater Wilmington area is a growing market, and we look forward to continuing these dealerships’ legacy of exceptional performance.”

By Matt Mercer North State Journal

An agency interpretation by the U.S. Department of Education is threatening to end funding of long-running school archery and shooting sports programs, members of Congress warn. First reported by Fox News Digital, the Biden administration confirmed that it is withholding critical funds for elementary and secondary schools nationwide with hunting or archery programs in their curriculum. The Department of Education in a statement said that its funding decisions were based on the plain text interpretation of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which Congress passed and President Joe Biden signed last year. The agency’s interpretation means funding for shooting sport activities earmarked under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965 will be blocked across the country.

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which passed in 1965, is the “primary source of federal aid for elementary and secondary education” and is meant “to strengthen and improve educational quality and educational opportunities in the Nation’s elementary and secondary schools,” according to Congressional reports.

“This prohibition applies to all ESEA funds,” a Department of Education spokesperson subsequently told Fox News Digital in a statement. “The prohibition went into effect immediately on June 25, 2022 and applies to all existing and future awards under all ESEA programs, including [21st Century Community Learning Centers]. The Department is administering the bipartisan law as written by Congress.”

Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-08) said while criticizing the decision. A letter signed by more than 60 House Republicans calls the funding decision “a gross misinterpretation of the law,” and a bill to clarify support for programs was introduced by Hudson and Tennessee Republican Rep. Mark Green. The National Rifle Association (NRA) called news of the department’s interpretation a treacherous overreach and the latest victims of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which the group opposed.

“The episode reinforces two critically important lessons that any pro-gun legislator should remember. One: there is no such thing as harmless gun control.

Two: Moderates who join forces with anti-gun extremists will eventually be embarrassed by the partnership,” the group said in a statement.

The NRA also pointed to a warning they issued before the bill was passed, saying in part, “This bill leaves too much discretion in the hands of government officials and also contains undefined and overbroad provisions — inviting interference with our constitutional freedoms.”

The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) said it is actively working to reverse the direction of the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that these programs remain intact for millions of students across the country.

WITN

NSJ

“These programs give our future conservationists and sportsmen and women new opportunities and passions, while teaching public safety, self-esteem, teamwork, and interpersonal skills,” Republican

“Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education is interpreting the inclusion of ‘dangerous weapon’ at face value by using the strict definition of ‘dangerous weapon’ rather than following the legislative intent of Congress, which is leading to the cancellation of school programs such as hunter education, archery, wilderness courses, school sponsored shooting teams, among many other critically important activities for America’s youth,” the group said in a statement earlier this month.

Both of North Carolina’s Republican senators at the time, Richard Burr and Thom Tillis, voted for the BSCA last year.

FIMAN-T ood warning system EASTERN NC

DURHAM COUNTY

Rodanthe “Jug Handle” Bridge project

north STATEment

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Requiem for commuter rail

WE RECENTLY VISITED WASHINGTON, D.C., and explored the art museums since we haven’t been to them since we left Northern Virginia in 2007 and they were all free. We got to visit with our oldest son in Fredericksburg, Virginia, as an added bonus.

We stopped 10 times or roughly every five miles to pick up passengers.

One of the reasons I was dying to leave Northern Virginia was the oppressive, lifesucking traffic. It used to take 1½ to two hours to travel one-way 16 miles from Annandale to Capitol Hill and back every day. There was no way I was going to drive through that traffic again and get stuck in 100-degree heat for three hours each way, which is what it could have been if a couple of wrecks spoiled everyone’s commute.

As an alternative, we decided to try to cover the 53 miles from Fredericksburg to D.C. by rail on the VRE, the Virginia Railway Express. We could walk to the VRE station from my son’s house. It was all too perfect — or so we thought.

Once we figured out how to order tickets online (the VRE website was horrible and very confusing), we waited on the platform for the 8:30 a.m. VRE train headed north. Since there was no clear explanation of the numbers designating each train, we presumed the one we got on was VRE No. 314.

It was not. It was Amtrak. The website seemed to indicate that VRE riders could board Amtrak trains, but once we got on board, the conductor said we were mistaken.

“But you can stay on nonetheless. Just remember this for future reference,” he offered nicely.

We were somewhat surprised. The Amtrak

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

train was pretty clean and not overly packed. Perhaps COVID has done what no other traffic mitigation scheme has ever done, which was take 25% of all gas-guzzling cars off of I-95 North and I-395, the infamously over-burdened Shirley Highway, heading past the Pentagon to Capitol Hill.

We had three brief stops along the way. It took about 50 minutes — or about the same amount of time it would take to drive to D.C. with no traffic whatsoever. Except we experienced no white-knuckle traffic behind the wheel and no annoying fender-benders.

So far, so good.

We enjoyed our visits to the National Gallery of Art, the Renwick and The National Portrait Gallery, all of which are must-sees if you go to D.C. on a trip or business-related matter. It was as hot as hell’s front porch, as some describe North Carolina weather in July, but we survived nonetheless.

And then ― we went back to Union Station to board a VRE train home.

This time, we got the right tickets, although I was unable to get half-price tickets for being a senior citizen because the VRE ticket system was so hard to navigate.

The on-boarding track number suddenly changed and no one seemed to know if it was a VRE or Amtrak train coming in. It was Amtrak, and as we learned from our previous conductor, “Don’t get on Amtrak the next time!” so we didn’t.

After a considerable delay, we got on the right VRE train ― No. 305 scheduled for 3:30 p.m. but we loaded up about 20 minutes later

The story of my Good Samaritan

LAST THURSDAY had been a very trying day for me.

The day started off on the wrong foot, so much so that by the time lunchtime hit, all I wanted to have to do was to go pick up lunch, come home, relax in the cool air and enjoy a quiet lunch with my mom.

So, I headed to a local fast-food restaurant. The wait was a little longer than I would have preferred, but I knew it was the time of day when everyone was out to get a quick bite to eat, so I didn’t think too much about it.

at 3:50 p.m. ― and proceeded to literally creep out of Union Station heading south back to Fredericksburg. I figured we had to go slow to get out of D.C. and make one stop in nearby Alexandria, Virginia, and then we would be on our speedy way back to Fredericksburg.

Or so we thought. We stopped 10 times or roughly every five miles to pick up passengers. I thought I could have ridden a bike faster between stations than we went on VRE. We stopped at the following stations in a 50-mile journey: L’Enfant, Crystal City, Alexandria, Franconia/Springfield, Lorton, Woodbridge, Rippon, Quantico, Brooke, Leeland Road and finally, thankfully, Fredericksburg.

It took a good 105 minutes to get home. One hour and 45 minutes.

The next day, we drove into D.C. to see some more museums — and then back out all the way to North Carolina later in the afternoon before the real traffic crush hit at 3:30 p.m. We were not going to use VRE again.

We have nothing against rail service. We traveled on a 150-mph passenger train from Venice to Florence in Italy last year.

At 150 mph, we would have been able to leave D.C. and get to Fredericksburg in 20 minutes. Commuter rail advocates: You have your work cut out for you. Let us know when high-speed rail service becomes a reality, not a dream.

There are still some good people left in the world, people with no agenda other than simply to help another person.

I got to the window and had to wait for my order for a good five minutes. I thought it was somewhat odd considering I ordered pretty standard fare, but I was patient as I sat in the car in near-100-degree heat (thank goodness for A/C!).

The order was handed to me and I noticed right away that I was missing an item — the second drink I ordered. I had to explain a couple of times to the person at the window before it clicked and they made my second drink.

After that, I decided to pull into a parking spot to double-check the bag itself to make sure what I ordered was in it.

It wasn’t.

Annoyed, I grabbed the bag, got out of the car, went inside and told the cashier, who could barely be bothered, what happened.

A full 10 minutes later, I had the one food item I was missing.

I went back to the car to head home, and … it wouldn’t start.

“How could this happen?” I wondered, my frustration building. It had been running just fine 10 minutes ago when I had been checking the order.

After a few minutes, I called AAA, where I was put on an endless automated loop until I finally got a customer service rep. They assured me someone would be out ASAP to give my car what I thought it needed — a jump-start.

While I waited, I had the car door open because sitting in the car in the baking sun was not an option.

Then I happened to glance at the wait time for my AAA service.

Two hours. At that point, I muttered things to myself that are not repeatable here.

There was no way I could wait there for two hours. My mom, for whom I am a caregiver, was waiting at home for me and the food. She assured

me she was fine, but though she might have been, I was not.

It was at that point I got out of my car and was prepared to walk over to a local mechanic shop which was right next door. Surely they had someone there who could jump my car off?

But before I got there, a man parked who was parked two spaces over from me, who I had heard talking on and off throughout my adventure in the parking lot, stuck his head out the window and asked me if everything was OK.

By that point, the sweat was pouring and my sob story about what happened was, too.

He offered to look under the hood and give my car a jump-start. But as it turns out, it didn’t need it. A battery connector was loose and once he tightened it, the car started just fine.

I thanked him profusely and went on my way, also thanking God that he put that man in my path that day. It was a reminder that there are still some good people left in the world, people with no agenda other than simply to help another person.

Thank God for Good Samaritans.

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

Blahous’ laws of politics, #4

Honesty is easy; it’s objectivity that’s hard.

Article first appeared in the July 25, 2023 edition of Discourse magazine published by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University

4TH LAW: Expertise and honesty do not confer objectivity.

Political exchanges are often rife with charges of dishonesty. But what often appears to us as someone else’s dishonesty is frequently just a difference in perspective. The other person has reached a different conclusion from you not because they are less honest or less informed, but because they are focusing on a different part of the picture and making a different value judgment.

Honesty is easy; it’s objectivity that’s hard. Most people are honest or try to be. But we are all biased in ways that are hard for us to recognize in ourselves. Furthermore, bias is not eroded by expertise. It’s quite the opposite: The more expert in something we become, the less receptive we can become to information that contradicts our beliefs, or to prioritization that conflicts with our own.

Perhaps nowhere was this dynamic on more vivid display than in the early months of the COVID pandemic. Fierce debates raged over forced closures of businesses and schools. These difficult decisions involved tradeoffs between highly uncertain considerations, such as the risk of contagion if schools were open and the developmental damage to children if schools were closed. Your view of what was most important was likely to be very different if you were an epidemiologist, an economist, a teachers union representative, a restaurant owner, the mayor of

Joe Biden strengthens the Iranian dictatorship

Ambassador Robert O’Brien, as Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, was relentless in working to bring Americans home without rewarding the hostage takers.

PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN’S approval of a $6 billion payment to the Iranian dictatorship in return for the release of five American hostages is a disaster.

Of course, it is good for the hostages and their families. But the immediate benefit to Iran — and the signal the exchange sends terrorists and other dictatorships — could be devastating many more families in the near future.

How many of our adversaries around the world are going to take note of the Biden administration’s weakness and decide they, too, can make money by kidnapping Americans?

How much more dangerous has the world become for American diplomats, tourists, and businesspeople now that the Biden administration has combined the white flag of surrender with a $6 billion tribute?

We must be honest about how the Iranian dictatorship will spend the money. It will enhance its support of international terrorism, strengthen its nuclear weapons program, accelerate its missile development projects, and bolster its conventional military.

None of this is good for America or our allies.

Remember that Iran has not moderated its behavior. In fact, it has become more aggressive and confrontational.

As Jon Gambrell wrote earlier this month, “Thousands of Marines backed by advanced U.S. fighter jets and warships are slowly building up a presence in the Persian Gulf. It’s a sign that while America’s wars in the region may be finished, its conflict with Iran over its advancing nuclear program continues to worsen, with no solutions in sight.”

Gambrel rightly pointed out that U.S. military leaders would much rather focus resources on Russia or China, but Iran’s behavior required the buildup.

“Now, America will have part of a Marine expeditionary unit in the region for the first time in nearly two years…. on a mission the Pentagon described as being ‘in response to recent attempts by Iran to threaten the free flow of commerce in the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters,’” Gambrel wrote.

So, the American military is worried enough about the Iranian dictatorship to be strengthening our presence in the Persian Gulf and the region. Meanwhile, in an example of confusion and incompetence, the Biden administration greenlit $6 billion for the Iranians to increase and expand their hostilities.

a large city, or a parent of a special-needs child dependent on critical in-person therapies. In this environment, charges of bad faith were rampant — of either being reckless and scientifically ignorant on the one hand or of being repressive and powerhungry on the other. The reality was that most people wanted the very best for everyone but simply had different subjective takes on what that meant.

Anyone who has ever co-authored a report with someone of a substantially different policy viewpoint understands the challenge of agreeing on fair, neutral language even when there is complete agreement over the underlying facts. One person wants to write, “While A is certainly true, we must remember B,” while the other person wants to write, “While B is certainly true, we must remember A.” The two statements are equally correct but convey opposite impressions. This is one reason why ideological diversity is so important — in government, in newsrooms, in academia and in any seat of power. When we only associate with others who share our own priorities and value judgments, we lose sight of how biased our own views actually are. The only way to avoid such bias is to welcome and incorporate emphases and value judgments counter to our own. This goes double for “experts.” The bottom line is that an expert can offer us information but not objectivity. Indeed, no one person can do so.

Charles Blahous is the J. Fish and Lillian F. Smith Chair and Senior Research Strategist at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University

AFTER 40 YEARS of “trickle-down economics,” President Joe Biden says, “Bidenomics is just another way of saying restoring the American Dream.”

It’s not often that a politician openly pledges to bring the country back to a time of crippling inflation, high energy prices and stifling interest rates. But this president is doing his best to keep that promise.

Unsurprisingly, “Bidenomics” is failing to gain traction among voters. This has caused consternation in the media. One thing to remember, though, is that “Bidenomics” isn’t really a thing. Unlike, say, “Reaganomics,” which helped bring about the largest expansion of the middle class in world history, the president does not subscribe to any coherent or tangible set of economic theories or principles. The White House defines its economic policy as being “rooted in the recognition that the best way to grow the economy is from the middle out and the bottom up,” which is just platitudinous gibberish.

“Bidenomics” encompass anything and everything that’s convenient for Democrats. And in this moment, it’s convenient for them to take credit for merely letting people go back to work.

Biden, who once claimed that the Democrats $3.5 trillion Build Back Better plan cost “zero dollars,” isn’t exactly a math whiz. But when he says stuff like “13.4 million jobs have been added to our economy” under his watch, more than “any other president in a full 4-year term,” anyone with even a passing familiarity with the events of the years preceding 2023 knows it’s a lie of omission.

The American taxpayers must now pay more to project military power to contain the aggressive dictatorship — which our own government is supporting. Because the is money is coming from South Korea and Iraq with Biden’s approval, the Republican-led Congress can’t stop the transfer. It is not directly American money, so Congress’s hands are tied.

The Iranians reportedly also get a number of people returned to them. Who these Iranians are — and why they were being held — is not clear. The apparent Iranian personnel release is secret and was only leaked by an anonymous source.

The argument that our concern for the hostages and their families should lead us to be charitable about this $6 billion transfer is also nonsense.

If we are concerned about hostages and their families, we should not adopt policies which will likely encourage more American hostage-taking.

We have a clear history under President Donald Trump of successfully liberating hostages without paying their captors — including hostages held by Iran.

President Trump celebrated his hostage release achievements with a video in 2020. His administration had negotiated the release of more than 50 Americans from more than 20 countries.

Ambassador Robert O’Brien, as Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, was relentless in working to bring Americans home without rewarding the hostage takers. I knew from talking with O’Brien and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, whose amazing work in North Korea got Americans released from captivity, that President Trump was deeply committed to helping American families and hostages. He insisted on patient diplomacy and firm pressure rather than paying off the kidnappers.

Even CNN National Security Editor Peter Bergen acknowledged in April 2019, “While Trump doesn’t seem to have been personally involved in these negotiations, he is ultimately responsible for the successes and failures on his watch. Certainly, when it comes to freeing American hostages, the Trump administration has a good story to tell.”

So, the choice is not to help or abandon American hostages.

The choice is between using strength and strategy to safely bring Americans home — or to pay off our enemies and make the world more dangerous. It is clear which choice is better for America.

Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.

The notion that presidents “create” jobs is itself a fantasy. In this case, though, Biden supported efforts to shutter private businesses during the pandemic, basically closing the entire economy, not only while running for president but after winning office. When Florida, and other states, attempted to ease some restrictions, Biden told them to “get out of the way” so that people could “do the right thing.” The pressure exerted on states to “do the right thing” was immense.

All of which is to say that the president and his allies had far more to do with destroying jobs than creating them. We don’t need to relitigate the efficacy of COVID policy here, but approximately 10 million of the jobs that Biden now brags about overseeing are just people coming back to the workforce after statecompelled lockdowns.

Then again, if “Bidenomics” had meant doing absolutely nothing, it would have been the president’s greatest political accomplishment. But that would have meant allowing a crisis to go to waste. Instead, what “Bidenomics” did help create was the biggest four-year inflationary spike under any president in 40 years.

By the time the American Rescue Plan was passed, there was already too much money chasing too few goods. Tons of people warned about the consequences of dumping more money into the economy. Even when inflation began inching up, Biden dismissed it -- “no serious economist” is “suggesting there’s unchecked inflation on the way,” he said. Democrats, of course, wanted to cram through a $5 trillion progressive agenda spending bill. So, when inflation became a big, nontransitory political problem, the Biden administration began arguing that more spending would help ease inflation.

Again, the vital thing to remember about “Bidenomics” is that it makes absolutely zero sense.

Only after inflation became a political issue did the Democrats rename Build Back Better the Inflation Reduction Act. It still contained all the historic spending, corporate welfare, price-fixing, and tax hikes, but, more importantly, it also still had absolutely nothing to do with mitigating inflation.

None of this is to even mention the hundreds of billions “Bidenomics” “invested” -- the enduring euphemism for spending money we don’t have -- in social engineering projects that would force us to abandon modernity in the name of “climate justice.” This brand of spending was based on a (misguided) moral prerogative, not any kind of prudent economic decision making, to say the least.

A writer in the New Yorker recently asked, “Why Isn’t Joe Biden Getting More Credit for a Big Drop in Inflation?” Probably because there is no “Bidenomics” policy that has helped lower inflation. Quite the opposite. We’re still trying to recover from the president’s economic policy. It’s the Fed that was compelled to hike interest rates at a level not seen in 30 years to inhibit economic growth partly due to government-induced inflation. It, not Biden, brought down inflation.

Presidents who oversee strong economies, often benefitting from the luck of history or existing policies, will see fewer jobs “created” during their terms because space for growth is limited. Biden was given more economic headroom than any president in history -- and blew it. That’s the real legacy of “Bidenomics.”

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of five books -- the most recent, “Eurotrash: Why America Must Reject the Failed Ideas of a Dying Continent.”

COLUMN | NEWT GINGRICH

‘Bidenomics’ has been a disaster

NATION & WORLD

Two years after fall of Kabul, tens of thousands of Afghans languish in limbo, waiting for US visas

The Associated Press

ISLAMABAD — When the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Shukria Sediqi knew her days in safety were numbered. As a journalist who advocated for women’s rights, she’d visited shelters and safe houses to talk to women who had fled abusive husbands. She went with them to court when they asked for a divorce.

According to the Taliban, who bar women from most public places, jobs and education, her work was immoral.

So when the Taliban swept into her hometown of Herat in western Afghanistan in August 2021 as the U.S. was pulling out of the country, she and her family fled, eventually making their way to Pakistan.

The goal? Resettling in the U.S. via an American government program set up to help Afghans at risk under the Taliban because of their work with the U.S. government, media and aid agencies.

But two years after the U.S. left Afghanistan, Sediqi and tens of thousands of others are still waiting. While there has been some recent progress, processing U.S. visas for Afghans has moved painfully slowly.

Many of the applicants who fled Afghanistan are running through savings, living in limbo in exile. They worry that the U.S., which had promised so much, has forgotten them.

“What happens to my children?

What happens to me?” Sediqi asked. “Nobody knows.”

During two decades in Afghanistan after its 2001 invasion, the U.S. relied on Afghans to help the U.S. government and military. Afghan journalists went to work at a growing number of media outlets. Afghans were the backbone of aid programs providing everything from food to tutoring.

Afghan refugees hold a rally to demand their U.S. visas to be processed in Islamabad, Pakistan, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023.

Since 2009, the U.S. has had a special immigrant visa program to help Afghans like interpreters who worked directly with the U.S. government and the military.

Then, in the waning days of the U.S. presence in the country, the Biden administration created two new programs for refugees, expanding the number of Afghans who could apply to resettle in the U.S. The visas, known as P-1 and P-2, are for aid workers, journalists or others who didn’t work directly for the U.S. government but who helped promote goals like democracy and an independent media that put them at risk under the Taliban.

The American airlift in August 2021 carried more than 70,000 Afghans to safety, along with tens of thousands of Americans and citizens of other countries — plane after plane loaded with the lucky ones who managed to make their way through the massive crowds encircling Kabul airport.

But many more are still waiting. There are about 150,000 applicants to the special immigrant visa programs — not including family members. A report by the Association of Wartime Allies said at the current rate it would take 31 years to process them all.

Separately, there are 27,400 Afghans who are in the pipeline for the two refugee programs created in the waning days of the U.S. presence in Afghanistan, according to the State Department. That doesn’t include family members, which potentially adds tens of thousands more. But since the U.S. left Afghanistan it’s only admitted 6,862 Afghan refugees, mostly P-1 and P-2 visa applicants, according to State Department figures.

In June, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. has relocated about 24,000 Afghans since September 2021, apparent-

ly referring to all the resettlement programs combined.

Among the refugee program applicants are about 200 Associated Press employees and their families, as well as staff of other American news organizations.

Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, president and CEO of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, said the U.S. refugee process in general can be agonizingly slow, and waits of as long as 10 years are common. Furthermore, former U.S. President Donald Trump gutted the refugee system.

Other challenges are unique to Afghan immigrants, said Vignarajah. Many Afghans destroyed documents during the Taliban takeover because they worried about reprisals. Now they need them to prove their case.

“The grim reality is that they’ll likely be waiting for years on end and often in extremely precarious situations,” Vignarajah said.

In a recent report, the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, a body created by Congress to oversee government spending in Afghanistan, faulted the various resettlement programs set up for Afghans.

“Bureaucratic dysfunction and understaffing have undermined U.S. promises that these individuals would be protected in a timely manner, putting many thousands of Afghan allies at high risk,” the report said.

Many applicants ended up in Pakistan — one of the few countries that allows Afghans in — only to discover the U.S. was not processing refugee applications there. That changed late last month when the State Department said it would begin limited processing of applications in Pakistan.

The State Department declined an AP request for an interview but said in a statement it is committed

to processing Afghan refugee visas.

In June, Blinken applauded the efforts that have gone into helping Afghans resettle in America but emphasized the work continues.

At the same time, the Biden administration has made progress in recovering from the Trump-era curtailment of the refugee system with the number of refugees and Afghans admitted into the country increasing. Left with little information, Afghans in Pakistan compare what they hear about their cases in group chats and organize social media protests demanding swifter U.S. action.

Enayatullah Omid and his wife are among those waiting.

In 2011, Omid started a radio station in Baghlan province with the help of the U.S.-based media training nonprofit Internews and funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development. He was the station’s general manager but did everything from reporting on-air to sweeping the floors at night.

When the Taliban entered Baghlan on Aug. 9, 2021, Omid said he did one last thing: He burned documents to keep the Taliban from identifying his staff. Then he and his wife fled.

They stayed at shelters arranged by a committee to protect Afghan journalists until the Taliban shut them down. Internews referred Omid to the U.S. refugee program in April 2022. Told he had to leave Afghanistan for his case to proceed, Omid and his wife went to Pakistan in July 2022.

Even in Pakistan Omid doesn’t feel safe. Worried about the Taliban’s reach, he’s moved three times. He said America has a saying: Leave no one behind.

“We want them to do it. It shouldn’t be only a saying for them,” he said.

Sweden calls for vigilance abroad after Quran desecrations, protests

Copenhagen, Denmark

A senior Swedish official said Monday that Swedes abroad and businesses linked to Sweden “should observe increased vigilance and caution” following recent Quran burnings in the country and protests in the Muslim world.

Henrik Landerholm, Sweden’s national security adviser, said there are signs of “a heightened threat” to the country and to Swedish interests abroad, adding the security situation has worsened.

In a statement, Landerholm said that “representatives of terrorist groups have called for attacks against Sweden. States and other actors have helped amplify such messages.”

He said extremists who previously considered Sweden a “legitimate target” now consider it a “priority.”

Landerholm said there also were “indications” that groups are planning other acts against Swedish interests abroad, and cited the storming of Sweden’s Embassy in Baghdad last month and an attempted attack on the diplomatic mission in Beirut last week.

A recent string of public Quran desecrations by a handful of anti-Islam activists in Sweden — and more recently in neighboring Denmark — has sparked angry demonstrations in Muslim countries.

Sweden does not have a law specifically prohibiting the burning or desecration of the Quran or other religious texts. Like many Western countries, it doesn’t have any blasphemy laws; Sweden’s were abandoned in the 1970s.

Last month, the Scandinavian country’s domestic security service SAPO said the overall security situation has deteriorated and said the risk of terrorism in Sweden remains at an elevated level.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Dengue outbreak in Bangladesh sparks alarm after 364 people die this year and infections rise Dhaka, Bangladesh Bangladesh is struggling to deal with higher casualties and infections from dengue this year, with officials warning that the death toll this month could break records.

The government’s Directorate General of Health Services reports the 2023 death toll from the mosquitoborn illness has reached 364 in the south Asian country. More than 78,000 people have been infected since January this year, it said.

PASULKA from page A1

Wait,” her book about the Catholic doctrine of purgatory.

“I didn’t know what these things were — I thought they were strange — but they happened in every time period, and the patterns were consistent,” Pasulka said. “When I was finished with my book, I showed this log to a colleague of mine, and he said they looked just like UFOs.”

Despite being caught off guard by the striking similarities between the aerial phenomena of Europe’s past and the flying saucers of today, Pasulka was no stranger to the subject. As a professor of religious studies, she was already familiar with several UFO religions, including the Nation of Islam, Raëlism and Heaven’s Gate. “ The field of religious studies is perfect for this,” said Pasulka. “As academics, we don’t weigh in on the truth or the falseness of any of these claims, so it’s pretty easy for us to look at the belief in UFOs.”

As soon as her focus shifted from Catholic history to the belief in UFOs, Pasulka quickly gained

insight into the government’s secret research programs, which were only later revealed to the public by Blumenthal and Kean. She was even taken to an alleged UFO crash retrieval site in New Mexico by “Tyler,” one of the many anonymous yet influential scientists who make up what she now refers to as the “UFO Fight Club.”

“I couldn’t believe that people with these credentials believed in this,” said Pasulka. “At the time, I was a complete disbeliever, and I wanted to know why people believed in something we had absolutely no proof for; that was my premise. And what I found out was that the government had actually been studying this for a long time. This was more shocking than any belief in ETs.”

Driven by this new curiosity, Pasulka began chronicling the behaviors of an array of successful scientists, tech entrepreneurs and academics, all of whom believe in the existence of nonhuman intelligences. She examined how technology and media contribute to the way people interpret this recurring phenomenon and how

these interpretations are ushering in “a new form of religion,” one that is thriving on the digital infrastructure of today. The culmination of her six years of field research, “American Cosmic: UFOs, Religion, Technology,” was published by Oxford University Press in February 2019.

“I knew I had to do this with Oxford because it was such a stigmatized field of knowledge,” said Pasulka. “They put me through a lot of rigorous credibility checks, as well as my sources, and they found no problem at all. You can’t get any more airtight than that.”

Since the release of her latest book, Pasulka has come to be regarded as an expert on the UFO phenomenon, garnering attention from academics, government officials, scientists and experiencers from around the world. In December 2020, she made an appearance on the popular “Lex Fridman Podcast,” an episode that now has more than 1.3 million views on YouTube alone. She has even been asked to write the entry on UFOs for the Oxford Encyclopedia, as well as do manuscript review for

Routledge and Cambridge University Press.

“People want to know what is happening, and so they are coming to me because I’m not telling them that we are in touch with Pleiadeans,” joked Pasulka. “I’m telling them exactly what I know, which is that the government’s been studying this, and pilots have seen things that they can’t explain.”

Notwithstanding Pasulka’s growing notoriety, life for her remains that of a typical university professor. When she isn’t giving interviews, Pasulka is teaching courses, writing books and securing grants to do service work around Brunswick and Pembroke counties. She is also the mother of five teenagers.

“People just need to know that I’m a normal professor, doing the normal professor-type things,” laughed Pasulka. “I’m a busy mom and a busy professor, and I’m just trying to keep up with it all.”

Pasulka’s next book, “Encounters: Experiences with Nonhuman Intelligences,” is set to be released this November.

Officials warn that the number of deaths and infections this month could set a new, grim record. In the first 10 days of August, more than 23,000 people were diagnosed with dengue, compared to 43,854 cases during all of July. More than 100 people have died so far this month, over a third as many deaths from the illness during all of last year.

In 2022, 62,382 people were infected and 281 people died of dengue, according to government figures.

Dengue causes flu-like symptoms that most people recover from, but it also can rapidly lead to internal bleeding, organ failure and death. There generally is no specific treatment for the disease, but vaccines are available. Other countries, such as Cyprus and Bolivia, also have seen outbreaks this year.

Infected people are overwhelming hospitals across the country, but some doctors and nurses are not sufficiently experienced or trained in how to treat dengue cases, experts say.

AP PHOTO

NHL Centennial Authority, Hurricanes agree to 20‑year lease extension, arena renovations, land development

Raleigh

A long-awaited agreement to keep the Hurricanes in Raleigh, renovate PNC Arena, and develop the 80 acres around the facility and Carter-Finley Stadium became official Tuesday when the team, the Centennial Authority and NC State came to an agreement on a plan that will reshape Raleigh. The deal will keep the Hurricanes at PNC Arena through the 2043- 44 NHL season, approves $300 million in renovations to the arena and gives team owner Tom Dundon the right to develop the area around it. The mixed-use development around the arena would include a sportsbook, retail and restaurants, offices, residential space — including affordable housing — and a luxury hotel. The initial plans also call for a music venue. As part of the Hurricanes’ commitment to staying in Raleigh, the NHL has agreed to bring another outdoor game to the city and allow it host another All- Star Game.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

UNC 21st in preseason

AP poll; Georgia No. 1

New York

The Tar Heels are the only North Carolina team ranked in The Associated Press preseason

Top 25 college football poll released Monday, checking in at No. 21 with 292 votes. UNC finished last season unranked after a 9 -5 campaign. Duke (four) and NC State (one) also received votes. Two -time defending champion Georgia is ranked No. 1, receiving all but three first-place votes from the 63 writers polled. Michigan, which received two first-place votes, is ranked second, followed by Ohio State, which was on top of one ballot. Two SEC teams, Alabama and LSU, are fourth and fifth, respectively.

App State looks to bounce back, B3

Pirates face big holes, tough schedule

The offense looks to replace mainstays Holton Ahlers and Keaton Mitchell

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

EAST CAROLINA is looking to take another step as a program despite some big losses up front.

The Pirates are coming off an 8-5 season in which they went 4-4 in conference play, although it can be argued they could have had two more wins under their belt over NC State and Navy had it not been for some bad kicks.

“For me and my staff, as we start year five at East Carolina, we’re just really pleased with where the program is right now,” said coach Mike Houston. “Excited about this group this fall and excited about the dedication and commitment that they’ve shown during the offseason.

“I know there’s a lot of documentation about who’s in the NFL and who we lost last year — and I’ve heard a lot of that this summer — but I’m really excited about who we

have returning. Lot of players have been waiting for their time. Lot of players have been doing it out there and now have been thrust into a bigger role. As we stand here today, I’m as excited about the program and this season as I ever have been for any.”

While Houston might have downplayed it a bit at the American Athletic Conference media day, there’s no denying that the Pirates lost a lot of talent, especially in their backfield. Quarterback Holton Ahlers, who set multiple school and conference records, and running back Keaton Mitchell, who had back-to-back 1,000-plus rushing yard seasons, left arguably the two biggest holes with their departures to the NFL.

“The positive thing is that Mason [Garcia] and Alex [Flinn] have both been there in the same room with Holton his entire time,” Houston said about his quarterback situation. “Those guys have been there, been at practice getting reps, been getting the same looks and things like that. The thing you can’t replace though is the game experience.

“Pretty challenging start to the season, but also very excited about that because we’re going to find out a lot about ourselves.”

Mike Houston, ECU coach

Both those guys are inexperienced when it comes to college snaps, but they have to work very hard this offseason to prepare. They’re both preparing as well as they ever had.”

Houston is also confident in the experience of running backs Rahjai Harris and Marlon Gunn to help cover for the loss of Mitchell.

“Rahjai Harris was first-team all-conference back in 2020,” Houston said. “He had a pretty tough injury last year, but he’s fully recovered now and had a great offseason. He and Marlon Gunn are two very experienced backs who are returning. Marlon played a lot

for us last year after Rahjai went down, so those two guys are pretty proven commodities in this league. I expect those two to have very solid years for us.”

One area where Houston’s optimism can be believed is with ECU’s defense. The Pirates had the fourth-best turnover margin in the country last season at plus-13 and were tied for 34th overall in forced turnovers with 20.

“On the defensive side of the ball, Julius Wood, I don’t know how he didn’t make all-conference last year. I think he’s one of the best safeties in the league,” Houston said. “He’s had a great offseason. Just really excited about him and Teagan [Wilk] returning at that position.

“Our defensive front, we returned virtually everybody up front. It’s a solid bunch. They’ve all been playing for three years. I talk about them as a group because that’s how we view them and they’re all just solid, core players.”

Houston and the Pirates will

See ECU, page B4

Young gets rude NFL welcome Panthers opener

The No. 1 overall draft pick took big hits in Carolina’s first preseason game

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

IN HIS FIRST SERIES, Bryce Young faced third-and-long. For the first time, he was going to be forced to throw the ball downfield. He’d thrown five passes so far, completing four, all to running backs, and all near or behind the line of scrimmage.

This time, he was going to have to look deep.

It didn’t go well.

Young was hit and went down for what would have been a drive-ending sack — except the ball didn’t go with him. He fumbled it away, ending any chance that special teams could salvage anything from the disappointing final play.

The date was Sept. 28, 2020, late in the second half of No. 2 Alabama’s season-opening win at Missouri, and Young’s sack and fumble kept Alabama from adding to its 35-6 lead. Young had come on in mop-up duty. The inauspicious start to his college career didn’t linger. He led ’Bama to a field goal on his next drive. A year later he won the

Heisman, and a year after that he was selected first in the NFL Draft. Which brought him to the second first series of Young’s career. It also didn’t go well.

Starting the preseason opener for the Panthers, Young again played it safe, throwing passes close to the line of scrimmage. Of the six passes

he threw in his NFL debut, five were designated as “short” in the official league play-by-play.

The strategy eventually led to a third-and-long, and Young was forced to look downfield. DJ Chark was running up the left sideline.

Young got set to throw, but starting left tackle Ickey Ekwonu was strug-

gling to contain Jets defensive end Bryce Huff.

Showing poise and savvy, Young — instead of cutting and running as many rookie quarterbacks would do — stepped up. Huff flew by behind him. Unfortunately, Young’s step up took him right into the path of linebacker Jermaine Johnson, who had stunted around right guard Cade Mays and right tackle Taylor Moton to get a clear path to Young.

Unlike his first struggles at Alabama, Young didn’t cough up the football. He got the pass off but overthrew it, the ball skimming off the hands of Chark as he leaped for the ball. Young took the hit, went down, then trotted off the field so the Panthers could punt.

The play was representative of Young’s first game as a Panther — not ideal, but not a disaster. He was sacked once, hit a few more times, and one of his three drives started at the Panthers’ 2-yard-line, forcing him to play even more conservatively than he might otherwise have.

“We had a little too much pressure at times,” said Panthers coach Frank Reich. “Bryce was accurate. He got rid of the ball quickly. There is some good in having to try to overcome some bad field position which

See PANTHERS, page B3

BEN MCKEOW | AP PHOTO

Running back Rahjai Harris will be key to an East Carolina offense that lost stars Holton Ahlers and Keaton Mitchell.

ERIK VERDUZCO | AP PHOTO

Jets defensive end Solomon Thomas pursues Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young during their preseason opener Saturday in Charlotte.

Beyond the box score

POTENT

TRENDING

Tez Walker: The Tar Heels transfer is getting an assist from North Carolina’s governor. Roy Cooper asked the NCAA to grant an appeal seeking immediate eligibility for Walker in a letter last week. Walker transferred to UNC from Kent State but has been denied eligibility as a two‑time transfer. The receiver, who deferred his enrollment at East Tennessee State in 2019 and missed the 2020 season at North Carolina Central due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, played the last two seasons with the Golden Flashes.

Wander Franco:

The Rays shortstop is being investigated by MLB after social media posts alleged the former Bulls infielder had an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl. He did not play in Sunday’s loss to Cleveland.

Osleivis Basabe was recalled from Durham and started at shortstop in his major league debut. Franco, who signed a $182 million, 11‑year contract in November 2021, is hitting .281 with 17 homers, 58 RBIs and 30 stolen bases in 112 games.

Noah Gragson: The suspended Cup Series driver has asked Legacy Motor Club to release him from his contract so he can work through the series’ reinstatement process. Gragson was suspended indefinitely by NASCAR last Saturday after liking an insensitive meme with a photo of George Floyd’s face. Two‑time Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller of Germany finished 24th at Watkins Glen on Sunday in the No. 42 Chevrolet usually driven by Gragson.

Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young after he threw for just 21 yards in three series in Carolina’s 27‑0 preseason‑opening loss to the Jets on Saturday.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Former NC State men’s basketball coach Jim Valvano, who led the Wolfpack to the 1983 NCAA title and went on to be a broadcaster and advocate for cancer research, was inducted posthumously into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday. Valvano, who died of cancer in 1993 at age 47, was part of an 11‑person 2023 class that also included Dirk Nowitzki, Dwayne Wade, Tony Parker and Gregg Popovich.

Bills safety Damar Hamlin after playing in Buffalo’s first preseason game Saturday, recording three tackles in his first action since he went into cardiac arrest during a game in January.

PRIME NUMBER

Consecutive preseason wins for the Ravens after their 20‑19 win over the Eagles on Saturday. Baltimore last lost in the preseason on Sept. 3, 2015, in Atlanta.

In his home debut with the Phillies, right‑hander Michael Lorenzen threw a 124‑pitch no‑hitter last Wednesday to become the 14th pitcher in franchise history to accomplish the feat. The 31‑year‑old, acquired from the Tigers at the trade deadline, struck out five and walked four in the 7‑0 win over the Nationals.

GOLF

Former NFL cornerback Bashaud Breeland, who had an interception in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl 54 win over the 49ers, is facing multiple charges in Mecklenburg County after being found in possession of a stolen vehicle, firearms and illegal drugs. Breeland, who played eight seasons in the NFL, has been released on $30,000 bond.

One week after a clutch win just to get into the FedEx Cup playoffs, Lucas Glover beat Patrick Cantlay in a playoff at the St. Jude Championship. Glover is up to No. 4 in the FedEx Cup and assured a spot in the Tour Championship. Cantlay’s tee shot in the first sudden‑death hole found the water, and Glover won it with a par.

NFL

WILFREDO LEE | AP PHOTO

MATT SLOCUM | AP PHOTO

it felt good. … Amazing.”

ADRIAN KRAUS | AP PHOTO

GEORGE WALKER IV | AP PHOTO

“We have to own this and get better.”

ERIK VERDUZCO | AP PHOTO

App State looks to return to winning ways after 6-6 season

The Mountaineers have a three-way competition to replace departed quarterback Chase Brice

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

LAST YEAR, the Appalachian State Mountaineers proved that they were, in fact, mortal.

After eight straight seasons of success in the Sun Belt Conference, App State fell short of bowl eligibility in 2022 and finished without a winning record (6-6) for the first time since moving up to Division I.

Despite a celebrated road win over Texas A&M early in the season that brought ESPN’s “College

GameDay” to Boone for the first time, coach Shawn Clark’s team fizzled out after what initially appeared to be business as usual for the Sun Belt stalwarts.

Clark has a chance now to prove that last season’s middle-of-theroad results were an anomaly and not a growing trend of where the Mountaineers are headed.

“It’s been a great offseason. … I’m excited for this football team,” Clark said at the program’s media day on Aug. 3. “It’s good to be back. Last week, it really hit me that football season is here.”

The Mountaineers are hoping to rebound with an identity centered around a strong offensive line and a heralded running game led by running back Nate Noel, who averaged 6 yards per carry last season with

six touchdowns.

“We’re very deep in the running back room, and you have to be in our style of offense because we are going to run the football,” Clark said. “You have to run the football to win championships, and it protects your defense at times. In Nate Noel, I think we have one of the most underrated players in our conference.”

Local talents Ahmani Marshall (from Winston-Salem) and Anderson Castle (from Watauga) provide valuable backfield depth.

The Mountaineers also need to replace Chase Brice, who started at quarterback the past two seasons after transferring from Duke. Redshirt freshman Ryan Burger is a top contender for the job while another Duke transfer, Joey Aguilar, is also making a run for the job.

During his media day interview, Clark appeared confident that the three-way quarterback competition — which also includes true freshman Mason McHugh — will ultimately produce a fit for the team’s offense. “We have three quarterbacks who can run our system and can play winning football: Ryan Burger, Joey Aguilar and Mason McHugh,” Clark said. “Each one brings something different to the table, and they’re all more mobile than we’ve been in the last two years. Instead of going five yards, they might go 50 yards running the football, so we might see more of that in our offense. I really like where we’re at with our quarterback room.”

Clark has alluded that he sees the 2023 season as a reset — rather than a rebuild or restart — for the program, especially with two new, familiar coordinators joining the fold.

In January, App State hired Frank Ponce to replace Kevin Barbay as offensive coordinator and then hired Scot Sloan to fill the vacant defensive coordinator position

What’s next in conference realignment?

The remaining Pac-10 teams are searching for solutions while other conferences weigh options

By Ralph D. Russo

The Associated Press

THE PAC-4 SCHOOLS are in limbo. The Mountain West is open for additions. The American Athletic Conference is interested in growing and on-guard for being poached.

The Atlantic Coast Conference can’t reach a consensus on expansion, and the Big Ten seems to be done adding West Coast schools — but we have heard that before.

While there appears to be a break in the action, here’s what could be next in major college football conference realignment.

Pac-4

While talking with the ACC, Stanford and Cal were still exhausting options to convince the Big Ten to add two more West Coast schools to go along with Southern California, UCLA, Oregon and Washington.

The Bay Area rivals have been unsuccessful so far. Could minds be changed? Never underestimate the power and influence of Stanford graduates, but for now it appears unlikely.

Stanford and Cal’s inability to land in a Power Five conference keeps alive hopes that they, along with Oregon State and Washington State, could rebuild the Pac-whatever by luring a few of the top Group of Five schools into

a smaller league that conceivably would be more valuable going forward than the ones they are currently in.

“We continue to believe that preserving the Pac-12 is in the best interests of OSU student-athletes and the remaining universities, and so we are doing everything in our control to stabilize and rebuild the conference,” Oregon State President Jayathi Murth said in a statement Friday.

There are myriad obstacles, starting with multimillion dollar exit fees in the Mountain West and AAC and the lack of a media rights deal for the Pac-12.

“They’re not going to have a war chest to rebuild with,” Tom Burman, athletic director at Mountain West school Wyoming, said in an interview with Pokescast.

Football independence and an

How did that one feel?’ He said that he was fine. He said he barely felt it.”

Olympic sport agreement with a Western conference — maybe the West Coast Conference and its strong basketball? — could be an option for Stanford and Cal.

Probably more so for Stanford, which doesn’t have Cal’s athletic budget issues.

As for Oregon State and Washington State, the choices seem to be figure something out with Stanford and Cal or join the Mountain West or AAC.

“We’re going to be OK,” Washington State athletic director Pat Chun said this week. “The reality is realignment is not done.”

ACC

The conference thought hard about rescuing Stanford and California from the sinking Pac-12. Notre Dame, which doesn’t com-

pete in ACC football, was leading the push to add the Northern California schools, but the 12 votes necessary to approve the expansion were not quite there.

Everything in the ACC is about revenue and how it’s divvied up these days. Expansion appears to be another leverage point. A Stanford/Cal addition, and maybe SMU, wouldn’t produce a windfall, but there is some money to be made.

That’s why westward expansion is still not a dead issue in the ACC. The majority of schools liked the idea and believe it could be part of a long-term strategy that provides more security. But do they like it enough to sweeten the pot for Florida State, Clemson and UNC to agree to it?

Right now, no. Eventually? To be determined.

Big Ten

The Big Ten switched gears on adding Oregon and Washington when it became a buy-low opportunity. Could it do the same with Stanford and Cal? There are no indications of that.

Former Commissioner Kevin Warren had already made the case to Big Ten presidents to add Oregon and Washington last year when the conference grabbed USC and UCLA.

Stanford and Cal were not as appealing, unless it was as a package to lure Notre Dame.

Next up on the Big Ten’s list of value adds are UNC and Virginia. The ACC schools are contractually locked up for now, but if the Big Ten is going to try to figure out how

left by Dale Jones. Both Ponce and Sloan previously coached in Boone.

“When you have success at a program like App, then you’re gonna lose coaches. And this is the fourth year and fourth different coordinator that we’ve had,” Clark said. “All have left for more money, not better jobs, in my opinion. But in saying that, Ponce has been here and we were both assistants here together from ’16 to ’18. We know each other and I know what he’s gonna bring to the table as far as developing quarterbacks if you really look back at it.

He is the one that recruited Ryan Burger from Myrtle Beach.”

The 2023 schedule starts with nonconference games against Gardner-Webb, UNC, East Carolina and Wyoming before heading into Sun Belt East play.

App State will need to win more close games — all six of the Mountaineers’ losses were by seven points or fewer — to avoid a repeat of last year’s .500 record. Another down season could also see Clark on the hot seat after 13 losses in the past three years.

to run a 20-team (or more) conference, it would prefer it comes with more financial upside.

Big 12

The Big 12 has pushed the limits of how much ESPN and Fox want to pay for more inventory, so it appears Commissioner Brett Yormark’s conference is done targeting Power Five schools.

A Pacific Northwest addition for the Big 12 is more likely to be Gonzaga and its powerhouse basketball program than more Pac-12 schools.

Mountain West

The logical landing spot for Oregon State and Washington State based on geography, but logic and geography don’t have the pull they used to in conference alignment.

As always, TV money is a consideration.

How much are Fox and CBS willing to pay the Mountain West for two more schools? The current deals pay about $4 million annually per school.

AAC

The American has interest in Oregon State and Washington State and a more lucrative TV deal with ESPN (about $9 million per school), but adding them would increase travel costs for existing members.

So is it really worth it?

Retention might be the AAC’s larger priority right now, considering SMU’s wandering eyes.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey can comfortably sit atop his kingdom, claim the moral high ground and wait to see how things shake out in the ACC.

we did not do. We (were) backed up there pretty much.”

Reich, a former quarterback who is familiar with taking a big hit or two, took special notice of the blow Johnson delivered on the third down play.

“Obviously, that first hit was pretty big,” he said. “I asked him on the sidelines, ‘Well, that was a pretty good welcome to the NFL hit.

“I mean at the time there’s adrenaline,” Young said. “You’re just focused on the next play. It’s part of football. It wasn’t a stop and pause and figure out. That’s the position that we play. At the time it wasn’t really something I processed or took in. It was just, again, throw the ball, you get hit, what’s the next call.”

Young, who has taken a level-headed, analytic approach to

his fledgling NFL career, doesn’t seem likely to be rattled by growing pains.

“That’s part of the game,” he said. “Football is a physical sport. That’s part of the job description. You’re going to get hit. Again, that’s the game that we play. That is part of the job, you know that that is coming. That is not something I think of. You can’t let that affect your decision making or what you’re going through. It happens, and I’m just

focused on the next play and trying to make sure I execute every time I get a chance to out there.”

It worked well as he was learning the ropes in Alabama. The Panthers hope he’ll reach similar heights in silver and blue.

“We talk about this all the time,” Reich said. “Let’s get the tough situations and put ourselves to the test. We had a couple of those today. We didn’t pass those tests, but those are good to learn from.”

“That’s part of the job description. You’re going to get hit. That’s the game that we play.”

Bryce Young

PANTHERS from page B1

GODOFREDO A. VÁSQUEZ | AP PHOTO

ACC presidents and chancellors held a conference call last Tuesday but took no action on West Coast expansion with California and Stanford.

Running back Nate Noel is expected to lead the way for App State’s ground attack this season.

REINHOLD MATAY | AP PHOTO

Messi scores again, Inter Miami tops Charlotte

The superstar import has eight goals in five games since coming to MLS

By Tim Reynolds The Associated

Press

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. —

Lionel Messi’s goalscoring streak lives on, as does Inter Miami’s winning streak.

Messi scored in the 86th minute, his eighth goal in five matches with his new club, and Inter Miami rolled past Charlotte 4-0 in a Leagues Cup quarterfinal last Friday.

The goal was set up by Leonardo Campana, who split two defenders with a pass from the low left of the penalty area. Messi redirected the pass by another defender into the wide-open net, then trotted toward Campana and leaped into his arms with a broad smile.

“When you have Messi, you know he just needs a chance. He just needs one second,” Charlotte coach Christian Lattanzio said. “You have to be very sharp to stop him from producing the magic he’s been producing since he went to Barcelona when he was 16.”

Messi has scored in all five of his appearances with Miami. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner who led Argentina to the World Cup crown last year has yet to lose a match with Miami, walking off winners in all five matchups so far in the Leagues Cup, a 47-team event composed of clubs from MLS and Mexico’s top league.

Next up for Messi and his new club: a semifinal Tuesday at Philadelphia, which topped Queretaro 2-1.

Messi passed Minnesota’s Bon-

gokuhle Hlongwane for the lead in Leagues Cup goals; each entered Friday with seven in four matches. Minnesota was eliminated with a 5-0 loss at Nashville.

Josef Martinez and Robert Thomas also had goals for Miami, an own goal set up by some serious Messi pressure late in the second half resulted in another score, and then Messi provided the perfect

clincher in the final moments.

It was the second consecutive game and third time in four outings in which Miami scored four goals, part of the massive turnaround of team that is in last place in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference.

“It’s beautiful to play with each other again,” said midfielder Sergio Busquets, a former Messi teammate

with Barcelona.

The team appeared to have close to just about another sellout at 22,000-seat DRV PNK Stadium, even on a night where the South Florida sports landscape was loaded. The Miami Dolphins were playing their preseason opener at home, the Miami Marlins played host to the New York Yankees, and Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro was head-

lining a pro-am league championship game inside a packed high school gym.

But Messi-mania lived on, as would be expected. And the fans in those new pink No. 10 jerseys left happy once again, a far cry from what life was like for Inter Miami backers before the Messi era started.

Before Messi: Inter Miami had won five of 22 MLS matches this season.

With Messi: Inter Miami has won all five of its Leagues Cup matches, and now is just two wins from a trophy with a team that looks nothing like a last-place MLS club since Messi, Busquets, Jordi Alba and coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino arrived.

“This Miami team is completely transformed,” Lattanzio said.

Messi’s first good chance came 30 minutes into the match when some nifty short passes on the left side of the box led to him getting an opportunity from about 6 yards. His shot was knocked away by goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina with the score already 1-0 lead.

Another great opportunity came in the 69th minute when Messi sent a pass to Taylor, then got it back and had open net — only to have his try from about 12 yards out in the middle of the box get deflected away.

Martinez opened the scoring for Miami on a penalty kick in the 12th minute. It went to 2-0 in the 32nd minute, when Taylor took a pass from DeAndre Yedlin near the top of the box and sent a one-timer off the hand of a sprawling Kahlina.

The own goal made it 3-0, and then Messi finished off Miami’s second 4-0 win of the tournament. Miami has never had that lopsided a win during its four seasons of MLS play.

“It’s not just Leo ... we have found different ways of being able to score,” Martino said.

2nd NASCAR crown jewel victory

McDowell dominates Brickyard 200 for

The 38-year-old earned a spot in the Cup Series playoffs

By Michael Marot

The Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS — Michael

McDowell knelt down at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s yard of bricks and delivered the sweetest kisses of his racing career Sunday.

The 38-year-old Arizona driver became a Brickyard champ — and a member of an elite club.

McDowell inherited the lead on Lap 53 and never trailed again as he drove the most dominant race of his career, beating Chase Elliott to the finish line by 0.937 seconds for his second NASCAR crown jewel victory while securing a playoff spot. Pole-winner Daniel Suarez was third.

ECU from page B1

have their work cut out for themselves almost immediately when they open the season in Ann Arbor to face preseason No. 2 Michigan. “Big matchup to start us off

McDowell’s only other win was the 2021 Daytona 500.

“That’s a big deal,” he said when asked about his second playoff appearance in three years. “When we won the Daytona 500, that was one of the coolest moments we ever had. We cherry-pick the races, my family comes to the ones we think we can win, and we thought we could win this one.”

As a result, McDowell’s wife and children also celebrated by kissing the bricks after his 453rd career Cup start. They weren’t at Daytona for his first win.

While his first win came by navigating traffic following a crash at Daytona, there was no doubt Sunday. McDowell won the first stage, finished behind only Denny Hamlin in Stage 2 and closed it out by leading a career-high 54 laps to give Front Row Motorsports its fourth Cup win.

with,” Houston said of the Sept. 2 game. ECU follows that with a visit from Marshall, which finished 9-5 a year ago, before traveling to Boone to play in-state foe Appalachian State.

“We had the fastest car. I don’t know if it was dominant, but it felt dominant.”

McDowell’s victory put him on the short list of Cup drivers to reach Victory Lane at Daytona and Indy, one that includes names such as the late Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Jarrett, who introduced the kissing tradition.

And on the annual crossover weekend with the IndyCar Series, McDowell also fittingly joined two of IndyCar’s greatest drivers on the list — Mario Andretti and A.J.

“Pretty challenging start to the season, but also very excited about that because we’re going to find out a lot about ourselves,” Houston said.

The Pirates will also have greater competition within the conference as the AAC adds six new members

Foyt, the only winners of the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500.

The significance struck McDowell almost immediately as he finished the 82-lap race on Indy’s 14-turn, 2.439-mile road course.

“We did it, we won Indy,” he shouted into the radio. “We had the fastest car. I don’t know if it was dominant, but it felt dominant.”

Elliott, the 2020 series champion, spent the final 20 laps trying to chase McDowell. He trimmed the deficit from nearly three seconds to less than one but couldn’t close enough to mount a charge.

So he settled for a runner-up finish that gave him some extra points — but not the playoff-clinching win. He’ll have two more chances to as the regular season winds to a close.

“I just lost too much ground in that mid-cycle,” Elliott said.

Suarez also spent most of the afternoon up front in a race that had only one yellow flag and 77 laps of green flag racing. He finished 5.75 seconds behind McDowell, the byproduct of a hose getting caught underneath the car’s left front tire during a pit stop.

for the 2023 season: Charlotte, Florida Atlantic, North Texas, Rice, Alabama-Birmingham and Texas-San Antonio.

“It’s going to create some new matchups and rivalries,” Houston said, “and I know all the coaches in

Defending champion Tyler Reddick and Alex Bowman, who also is fighting to make the playoffs, finished fourth and fifth.

Shane van Gisbergen finished 10th in his second career start, failing to become the first Cup driver to win his first two career starts. Van Gisbergen won in his NASCAR debut in the inaugural Chicago race last month but had a more challenging weekend running his first oval in Friday’s truck race and contending with a field of drivers who have years of data regarding Indy’s course.

“Oh, it’s aggressive,” the New Zealander said. “It was fine. I really enjoyed it. You make a move on someone and that gives you the room and then they expect it back, so really cool.”

McDowell felt the same way for a very different reason.

“After winning the Daytona 500, there aren’t many things that can top that but this was a close second,” he said. “To have it all come together, it’s super special.”

The series makes its annual stop at the road course at Watkins Glen next Sunday, the penultimate race of the regular season.

the league are excited about that.”

The Pirates will face four of its new conference rivals this season: at Rice on Sept. 30, home against Charlotte on Oct. 21, and on the road against both UTSA (Oct. 28) and FAU (Nov. 11).

Michael McDowell

MICHAEL CONROY | AP PHOTO

Michael McDowell (34) leads Daniel Suarez (99) through the first turn during his NASCAR Cup Series win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course on Sunday.

MICHAEL LAUGHLIN | AP PHOTO

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi, right, dribbles the ball in front of Charlotte FC midfielder Ashley Westwood during their Leagues Cup match Friday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Messi scored in the fifth straight game since coming to MLS, getting his eighth goal in the second half of his team’s 4-0 win.

But gas prices steadily fell until this January, when they began to climb without having returned to their earlier peak.

—The Fed aggressively raised its benchmark interest rate, which made it more expensive to borrow and slowed demand that had been pushing up prices. The Fed’s rapid hikes have nearly doubled average mortgage rates, pushing down existing home sales. Home prices have also declined slightly in the past year, which can put downward pressure on rental costs. Other interest-rate sensitive industries, particularly autos, have also seen prices fall after sharp increases during the pandemic.

—The supply chain kinks that caused shortages coming out of the pandemic got unsnarled. A measure of supply chain difficulties constructed by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York has fallen below even pre-pandemic levels as shipping costs have declined.

“The big moves in inflation are primarily global shocks,” said Kristin Forbes, an economist at MIT and a former member of the Bank of England’s interest-rate setting committee. “Those are the primary drivers, but not the only ones. What the Fed has done has also contributed, without a doubt.”

Biden has been careful not to declare an outright victory against inflation, as it’s still higher than the Fed’s 2% target. But the White House says the cost savings from the Inflation Reduction Act are coming as the law is getting enacted.

Tax credits will reduce the cost of installing rooftop solar panels by 30%, which will in turn lower monthly electricity bills. Tax credits also make it more affordable to install a heat pump to control a home’s central air, possibly trimming energy bills by $1,000 annually. There are other tax credits for energy efficient doors and windows as well as new insulation.

Electric utilities using the tax credits for renewable energy will pass roughly $8.2 billion in savings to their customers. People can defray the costs of buying a new electric vehicle with a $7,500 tax credit.

The law also has measures related to health care. Biden has often said in speeches that Medicare recipients will have the monthly cost of their insulin capped at $35. Starting in 2025, there will be a $2,000 limit on out-of-pocket prescription drugs that will save 19 million people on Medicare an average of $400 annually. The CBO estimated that people enrolled in Medicare Part D, which involves prescription drugs, will have their personal costs lowered by $25 billion in 2031.

Taken together, the law could help protect the U.S. economy against the rising oil costs and broken supply chains that triggered the most recent bout of high inflation.

“The IRA will be a big plus for the economy in the longrun as it reduces the economy’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics. “It will make the economy less vulnerable to spiking oil prices, which have contributed to nearly every recession since World War II.’’

For Mark Zuckerberg’s Threads, the real rival is still TikTok — not the former Twitter

The Associated Press

THREADS, the simple, barebones text-based social network created by Facebook owner Meta, burst onto the scene during a particularly bad week for the rival then still known as Twitter. It quickly amassed 100 million signups — a huge feat for a newcomer in the space — and was dubbed as a “Twitter killer.”

By week two, though, signups began to drop off. As of Aug. 7, the number of people who used Threads daily hovered around 10 million on Android phones, down from 49 million when it launched a month earlier, according to research firm SimilarWeb. Is Mark Zuckerberg’s latest venture just a flash in the pan? That depends on whether it can hold its own against its biggest rival. And no, that’s not X, the former Twitter. It’s TikTok. And the odds are not great.

“Mark Zuckerberg may have temporarily been distracted in his sparring with Elon Musk, but the real battle for Meta is with TikTok,” said Insider Intelligence analyst Jasmine Enberg. “And Zuckerberg still really needs to watch his back.”

It’s true that before TikTok took over the role of digital town square and “originator of trends,” Enberg noted, the role was held by Twitter. But many of the biggest trends now come from people who came of age in the TikTok era — Gen Z and even younger kids and teens. And just as with stodgy Facebook, Twitter usage is also declining among teens, according to data from the Pew Research Center. As such, text-based social media platform may not be all that appealing to the TikTok generation, where dances, makeup tips, outlandish recipes — not to men-

tion the whole idea of de-influencers — spread via videos rather than the written word.

Regardless of format, though, Threads’ biggest challenge is “being able to find a unique identity outside of being a Twitter alternative and outside of the expansion of Instagram,” Enberg said.

For now, its not clear it has one. The app amassed a massive initial user base, including well known celebrities and brands, precisely because it is an expansion of Instagram. To sign up for Threads, you need an Instagram account, and it’s easy to toggle back and forth between the two. Instagram has well over a billion users (by some estimates closer to 2 billion), and the app has been luring users to Threads with notifications to join their friends there.

The question is, what to do once you’re on? So far, Threads’ user base is similar to that of Ins-

“Mark Zuckerberg may have temporarily been distracted in his sparring with Elon Musk, but the real battle for Meta is with TikTok.” industry analyst Jasmine Enberg

tagram, and prominent accounts are predictable — celebrities, politicians, news organizations, influencers and the like. It’s harder to find original posts from regular people, unless your the Instagram connections you ported over happen to be a chatty — or thready — bunch. If you sign up without connecting a well-used Instagram account, by creating one just so you can join Threads, the experi-

ence can feel impersonal and sterile as the app steers you to follow big, popular accounts that everyone else follows, too.

While many popular internet celebrities rushed to sign up for Threads and quickly amassed large followings, it’s not clear how many of them are returning regularly. MrBeast, a popular YouTuber whose actual name is Jimmy Donaldson, has 5 million followers on the app. But he has not posted in two weeks — though he has sent several TikToks, tweets (or posts on the site now called X) and a 18-minute video on YouTube, where he has 175 million subscribers.

Zuckerberg, in a recent conference call, said he’s “optimistic” about Threads but acknowledged there’s a “lot of work to do” to make it reach its full potential.

“It has been sort of this weird anomalous thing in the tech industry that there hasn’t been an app for public discussions like this that has reached 1 billion people,” he said. “When I look at all the different social experiences, it just seems like there should be one like this.”

Maybe so, but it’s not clear it’ll be Threads. As Zuckerberg acknowledged during the same call, Meta has tried “a bunch of standalone experiences over time” but in general, it hasn’t had much luck. There’s Facebook, sure. But the company bought both Instagram and WhatsApp, its two other successful apps. The biggest one may be Messenger — but even that started as a service inside Facebook before it was spin out as a separate app.

“(It’s) awesome that we get a chance to work on this, and I’m really optimistic about where we are,” Zuckerberg said. “But it’s going to be a long road ahead.”

President Joe Biden, escorted by Col. Matthew E. Jones, Commander of the 89th Airlift Wing, arrives to board Air Force One, Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to Milwaukee.

Biden heads to battleground Wisconsin to talk about the economy a week before GOP debate

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a show of preemptive counter-programming, President Joe Biden on Tuesday traveled to Wisconsin to highlight his economic policies in a state critical to his reelection fortunes, just a week before Republicans descend on Milwaukee for the party’s first presidential debate. His trip came on the eve of the anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, major economic legislation that he signed into law with great ceremony but polls show that most people know little about it or what it does.

Wisconsin is among the handful of critical states where Biden needs to persuade voters that his policies are having a positive impact on their lives, and he is expected to visit frequently to make his case.

Biden toured Ingeteam, a clean energy manufacturer of onshore wind turbine generators in Milwaukee, to talk up provisions of the law that spends hundreds of millions of dollars to boost domestic manufacturing and clean energy, lower health care costs and crack down on wealthy tax cheats. Ingeteam plans to hire 100 workers using Biparti-

san Infrastructure Law money to start producing EV charging stations domestically, according to the White House.

Also timed to Biden’s trip, multinational tech firm Siemens is set to announce that it will start manufacturing solar inverters in Kenosha County, a move prompted by increased demand brought by the tax incentives from the IRA law.

Administration officials say the trip is aimed at recognizing the effects of the law, which passed Congress on party-line votes.

“The president and his team are excited to bring that message to the American people throughout the week,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Monday.

Critics of the legislation say provisions of the law could end up increasing inflation. Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers said during a virtual Peterson Institute for International Economics event in July that while he supported the IRA, the Biden administration’s overall economic agenda is “increasingly dangerous.”

“I am profoundly concerned by the doctrine of manufacturing-centered economic nationalism that

is increasingly being put forth as a general principle to guide policy,” Summers said.

Vice President Kamala Harris and top Cabinet officials will be fanning out across the country this week to talk about the Inflation Reduction Act and its provisions. Biden has scheduled an anniversary event at the White House on Wednesday. The president’s stop in Wisconsin comes shortly before Republicans hold their first presidential primary debate in Milwaukee on Aug. 23. Former President Donald Trump — the leading Republican candidate in polls — has yet to say whether he will boycott or hold a competing event.

Charles Franklin, director of Marquette Law School Poll, said the trip could help Biden win support from independents, who make up about 10% of voters in the state.

“What he really needs to do is get independents in the state to like him a bit better,” Franklin said. “Coming and talking about his achievements, about factories that are working with American jobs — all of that is a good reason to come to speak to those folks in the state who are not partisans.”

“Because Democrats are already behind him,” Franklin said, and “Republicans are almost certainly not going to cross over.”

Democratic gains helped decide a critical state Supreme Court race this spring that moved Wisconsin’s highest court under liberal control for the first time in 15 years.

Republicans, though, will compete aggressively in the state, selecting Milwaukee as the site of its 2024 national nominating convention.

The 2020 Democratic convention was supposed to be held in Milwaukee too, but it largely unfolded virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Biden is one of a string of administration officials making stops across the country this week to promote the legislation’s anniversary.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Monday spoke in Las Vegas at an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union hall about “the early results of bold federal action through the IRA” and the administration’s climate agenda.

“The IRA is driving economic growth, expanding economic opportunity and bolstering our resilience,” she said.

This photo, taken in New York, Thursday, July 6, 2023, shows Meta’s new app Threads.

He’s ‘just Ken’ but will the ‘Barbie’ movie change his popularity?

The Associated Press NEW YORK — On and off the big screen, it’s Barbie’s world and Ken is just living in it.

As reflected in Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster movie that tackles the legacy Mattel’s famous doll, Barbie has always been more popular than Ken. For every Ken doll sold today, there’s generally eight to 10 Barbies sold, according to Jim Silver, a toy industry expert and CEO of review site of TTPM.

It’s unclear if Warner Bros’ “Barbie,” which was also co-produced by Mattel, will increase Ken production and sales. But Silver noted that the movie “gave Ken more attention than Ken has received” in decades.

Ken was first introduced back in 1961, two years after Barbie hit store shelves. But he hasn’t had nearly the same impact on the Barbieverse since.

“Barbie’s world is about Barbie. And (to some), Ken may be an accessory of sorts,” said Ed Timke, an assistant professor of advertising and public relations at Michigan State University, pointing to years of marketing that has, naturally, put Barbie at center stage.

The new attention around Ken following “Barbie’s” release has also received pushback. Many note that the movie is about Barbie — not Ken — and that’s where the spotlight should stay.

Still, the dynamic between the film’s Barbie and Ken may get people to reflect some big questions about gender as well as Ken’s own evolution over the years.

Who is Ken as a toy and how has he changed?

Ken’s relationship to Barbie has been up for debate since the two hit the toy aisle together. While Mattel long-advertised Ken as Barbie’s

boyfriend — and even detailed their 2004 split and subsequent reconciliation seven years later — many also saw Ken as Barbie’s best friend, and sometimes queer icon.

One 1993 version of Ken in particular, Earring Magic Ken, became notably popular among LGBTQ consumers, the New York Historical Society notes. At the time, Mattel denied the Earring Magic Ken was queer and later pulled him from shelves.

Other popular versions of Ken ranged from the tuxedo-wearing 1984 Dream Date Ken, to 1978 Superstar Ken and 1979 Sun Malibu Ken, which became one of the doll’s most iconic looks (as reflect-

ed in Ryan Gosling’s character).

While Ken has gone through far fewer career changes than Barbie, his resume boasts job titles like astronaut, barista, country western singer and doctor.

“A wonderful thing is that through play, children are free to have their dolls take on any type of role that they wish,” said Ann Herzog, a clinical instructor of child life and family-centered care at Boston University.

Still, Ken — like Barbie — has evolved over time and become more diverse, particularly after Mattel rolled out more skin tones, body types, hairstyles and more for Ken dolls in 2017. Some Kens also

have prosthetic legs, wheelchairs and hearing aids. Increases in diverse representation — with similar changes seen since 2016 for Barbie — has boosted the dolls’ popularity and comeback sales, Silver said.

Will Barbie (and Ken) sales increase following the movie’s release?

Mattel did not respond to The Associated Press’ requests for data or comment on specific Ken and Barbie sales seen before and after “Barbie’s” July 21 release. But according to market research firm Circana, Barbie sales overall for the U.S. toy industry increased 40% in the last two weeks of July

compared with the same period in 2022.

Circana doesn’t break out Ken from Barbie sales. Still, “I suspect that, with the movie, sales of Ken dolls will experience a strong lift in sales,” Juli Lennett, VP, U.S. toys industry advisor at Circana, wrote in an email to The Associated Press. Additional experts also expected a spike in interest, but weren’t sure about the long run.

Lennett did note that the top-selling “Barbie” movie item for those last two weeks of July was the Barbie Gingham Dress followed by the Ken Doll Set. Between those two items, Barbie outsold Ken nearly two to one, she said.

For the second quarter of 2023, which ended weeks before the movie’s release, worldwide sales of Barbie to retailers excluding adjustments actually fell 6%. Mattel executives told analysts that sales had improved in July, and it expects the movie will have a halo effect on the brand for years to come.

There was a carryover of inventory across the toy industry for the first half of the year, Silver explains, noting that record sales in the first years of the pandemic led to over-buying at the end of 2022. He predicts a rebound in Barbie sales heading into the holiday season, when toy spending is high and after “Barbie” eventually makes its way to streaming.

And of course, sales following “Barbie’s” release won’t be limited to the toy aisle. Other branded products are also gaining popularity from the film, including Ken-focused swag like “I am Kenough” sweatshirts and other “Ken-ergy” apparel, are currently for sale by Mattel, as well as from third-party sellers on sites like Amazon and Walmart.

Carolina

the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of October 2023 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said

WARNER BROS. PICTURES VIA AP, FILE

This image released by Warner Bros. Pictures shows Ryan Gosling, left, and Margot Robbie in a scene from “Barbie.”

NC red wolves

A female red wolf emerges from her den sheltering newborn pups at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, on May 13, 2019. On Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, the U.S. government agreed to settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina. Read more on page 6.

COUNTY NEWS

NC fentanyl victim families to hold awareness rally in downtown Raleigh

In the last nine years, over

13,671 North Carolina residents have been killed by fentanyl, which is enough people to fill the Raleigh Convention Center.

The current rate for deaths by fentanyl in the state is roughly eight citizens a day, and these figures include people of all ages. In an effort to bring attention to this drug epidemic, the families from the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC and Forgotten Victims of North Carolina will be holding a rally at the Capitol Building in downtown Raleigh. This event will take place on August 20, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., regardless of the weather that day. The goal of the rally is to encourage the state senate to pass Bill 189, increase the funding of the NC DHHS, ensure all drug-related deaths are thoroughly investigated as potential homicides and crime scenes, and be recognized as “crime victims” by the NC Justice System and NC. Law Enforcement. For more information about this event, please contact Barb Walsh, the executive director of the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC, at: barb@fenvic.org.

Stanly commissioners appoint new Ag-District Advisory and Airport Authority members

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

ALBEMARLE — Stanly County’s Voluntary Ag-District Advisory Board and Airport Authority Board each have two new members following the county commissioners’ recent meeting on August 7.

Filling a pair of vacancies, Leon Huneycutt and Lori Ivey were both added to the Voluntary Ag-District Advisory Board for terms ending on June 30, 2026. Additionally, Commissioner Trent Hatley and Arthur Whittaker each received positions on the Airport Authority Board that last until March 31, 2027.

Chester Lowder, chair of the VAD Advisory Board, gave a brief presentation to the county commissioners, noting that both applicants — Huneycutt and Ivey — were in full compliance with all of the requirements necessary to serve on that board.

“I want to thank you for this opportunity to bring two individu-

als that the Volunteer Ag-District Board has surfaced to fill some vacancies that we have to help us in the work with the district,” Lowder said. “The board met in April of this year and unanimously agreed to support the applications of Leon Huneycutt and Lori Ivey.”

Following the presentation, Commissioner Bill Lawhon made the motion to approve both applicants before the unanimous vote in favor took place.

The VAD board consists of seven members appointed by the county commissioners for three-year terms who are all residents or landowners in Stanly County.

Per board rules, at least five of the members must be actively engaged in farming, horticulture or forestry; one must be enrolled in the Voluntary Ag-District program, and one must be enrolled in the Enhanced Voluntary Ag-District program.

The board is designed to encourage the preservation of local farmland from non-farm development

in recognition of agriculture’s importance to the economic well-being of the state.

For the Airport Authority Board appointments, Stanly County Manager Andy Lucas gave a presentation explaining that under NC Session Law 2023-28, the board has now been expanded to seven members.

Under the new guidelines, the board can now lease property or facilities and can also contract for airport operations for terms of up to 30 years within the parameters of existing law. Five members must be at-large members from the community, while two members must also be county commissioners.

Commissioner Hatley — a former alternate member of the Airport Authority — was unanimously voted to the board following a nomination from Lawhon.

The nomination process for the at-large Airport Authority member soon began as Commissioner Patty Crump nominated Art Whittaker,

Nominations open for upcoming state fair’s ‘Farm Family of the Day’

By A.P. Dillonl North State Journal

RALEIGH — While the 2023

N.C. State Fair is still a couple of months away, competition applications and event planning are already in motion.

The fair officials have opened up nominations to honor 11 farm families to be recognized as the Tractor Supply Company’s “Farm Family of the Day.” This is the third year Tractor Supply Company has sponsored the program to celebrate farm families behind the state’s “$103.2 billion agriculture and agribusiness industry.”

year,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a press release. “Thanks to Tractor Supply Company, we can help tell the story of our farmers because they are the individuals out there every day working to grow the food, fiber and fuel that we need to survive.”

Nominations and applications for Farm Family of the Day will be open through Sept. 15. Families will be Applications can be found at nc statefair.org/2023/Attractions/FarmFamilyOfTheDay.htm.

Commissioner Brandon King nominated Steve Bradley, and Commissioner Trent Hatley nominated Jimmy Faust.

Whittaker received three votes (Crump, Mike Barbee and Peter Asciutto) while Bradley received one (King) and Faust also garnered three (Hatley, Lawhon, Scott Efird). Due to the tie, a re-vote between Whittaker and Faust occurred where King shifted his vote over to Whittaker, giving him the 4-3 edge for the at-large Airport Authority position.

“I just want to say we’ve had good quality people applying for these boards, and unfortunately, sometimes there’s only one slot to fill,” Asciutto said.

“We need citizens to fill out those applications to serve on those boards,” Chairman Efird added.

The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting on Sept. 5 in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly Commons.

8 5 2017752016

$1.00

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each

Families receiving the award will get an N.C. State Fair gift basket containing fair tickets, ride passes and “additional swag” provided by Tractor Supply Company and the N.C. State Fair. This year’s fair runs from Oct. 12-22 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. More information on the upcoming fair, competitions and events can be found at ncstatefair. org.

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year.”

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler

stanlyjournal.com

CRIME LOG

♦ ALVALOS, JOSE MARIO ALVARADO (U /M/44), DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED, 08/14/2023, Stanly County

Sheriff’s Office

♦ BULLOCK, TREY LANDIS (B /M/28), AID & ABET MISD LARCENY, 08/14/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

♦ SHISHMAN, IVAN JOHN (W /M/32), POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, 08/14/2023, Stanly County

Sheriff’s Office

♦ KHAN, MELISSA DAWN (W /F/31), COMMON LAW

FORGERY (F), 08/13/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

♦ GADDY, HAROLD DAVIS (B /M/33), HABITUAL LARCENY, 08/11/2023, Stanly County

Sheriff’s Office

♦ PATTERSON, CHASE JUDSON (W /M/32), PWISD

MARIJUANA, 08/11/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

♦ POLK, ELIJAH LEE (B /M/33), SECOND DEGREE TRESPASS, 08/11/2023, Stanly County

Sheriff’s Office

♦ BEACHUM, JOHN BRANDON (W /M/40), POSSESS METHAMPHETAMINE, 08/10/2023, Stanly County

Sheriff’s Office

♦ INGOLD, MITCHELL GLENN (W /M/43), INTIMIDATING

WITNESS, 08/10/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

♦ JACKSON, DEON NOVELL (B /M/48), STATUTORY RAPE OF CHILD <= 15, 08/10/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

♦ GERBER, TABATHA RENEE (W /F/43), TRAFFICKING,OPIUM OR HEROIN, 08/08/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

Legal experts question judge’s order telling Southwest lawyers to get religious-liberty training

The Associated Press

A federal judge has set off a debate among legal scholars by ordering lawyers for Southwest Airlines to undergo “religious-liberty training” by a conservative Christian legal group.

Critics say that if the judge believes such training is necessary, he should have found a less polarizing group to conduct it.

U.S. District Judge Brantley Starr made the decision after ruling that Southwest was in contempt of court for defying a previous order he issued in a case involving a flight attendant who said she was fired for expressing her opposition to abortion. She sued Southwest and won. Starr, nominated to the bench by former President Donald Trump, said Southwest didn’t understand federal protections for religious freedom. So this week, he ordered three of the airline’s lawyers to undergo religious-liberty training. And he said that the Alliance Defending Freedom, or ADF, “is particularly well-suited” to do the train-

ing.

The group has gained attention — and high-profile court victories — opposing abortion, defending a baker and a website designer who didn’t want to work on samesex marriages, and seeking to limit transgender rights. It frequently cites First Amendment rights in its litigation.

ADF declined to describe its training or to make a representative available for an interview. In an emailed statement, its chief legal counsel, Jim Campbell, said, “The judge’s order calls for ADF to provide training in religious liberty law — not religious doctrine. It is baseless to suggest that people of faith cannot provide legal instruction if their beliefs differ from their audience’s.”

Southwest has appealed Starr’s sanctions, which also include emailing a statement that the judge wrote to its flight attendants to say that airline is not permitted to discriminate based on employee’s religious beliefs. The airline, which is based in Dallas, is already appealing the

jury verdict in the flight attendant’s favor.

Douglas Laycock, an authority on religious-liberty law who recently retired as a law professor at the University of Virginia, said judges can order extra measures such as training to make sure defendants comply with the rest of an order, but Southwest still has avenues to appeal.

Southwest could argue “that ADF has extreme views on these issues and will give distorted training, and there is something to that,” Laycock said. Or, he said, the airline could argue that ADF is essentially a religious organization, and that requiring Southwest lawyers to take training from the group would violate their rights.

The nephew of Kenneth Starr, a former federal judge who led the investigations into former President Bill Clinton that led to Clinton’s impeachment in a sex scandal, Starr graduated from Abilene Christian University and earned a law degree from the University of Texas at Austin, where he was editor of a conservative law journal.

The Southwest case stems from the airline’s decision to fire Charlene Carter, a flight attendant for more than 20 years, after a series of social media posts and private messages aimed at the president of the flight attendant’s union for attending an anti-Trump, pro-abortionrights march in Washington in January 2017.

In one message Carter told the union president, “You truly are Despicable in so many ways,” and attached video that purported to show an aborted fetus. An hour later, she sent another video of an aborted fetus.

Carter took the case to arbitration but lost. She then sued, and last year a jury in Dallas awarded her $5.1 million from Southwest and the union. Starr later reduced the judgment to about $800,000 to, he said, comply with federal limits on punitive damages.

Both the airline and the union are challenging the decision before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which has not decided whether to hear the case.

CNN revamps schedule, with new roles for Phillip, Coates, Wallace and Amanpour

The Associated Press NEW YORK — CNN is emphasizing homegrown stars and reporting chops in a schedule reboot that gives weeknight shows to Abby Phillip and Laura Coates, along with bringing Christiane Amanpour back onto the domestic network regularly.

Virtually no part of the day or weekend goes unchanged in the plans announced on Monday, the first major move by the leadership quartet that replaced ousted network chief Chris Licht on June 1.

Phillip, a political reporter, and Coates, the network’s chief legal correspondent, both began at CNN in part-time roles. Soon they’ll have back-to-back hours on the network’s schedule each weeknight starting at 10 p.m.

Eastern.

They’ll join Kaitlan Collins at 9 p.m. and Erin Burnett two hours earlier, with Anderson Cooper the only man in the important fivehour stretch that includes prime time. Since Chris Cuomo was fired in December 2021, CNN hasn’t had a regular prime-time lineup, and its new leaders considered it a top priority to project consistence to viewers and employees.

CNN’s leadership team of Amy Entelis, David Leavy, Virginia Moseley and Eric Sherling also

wanted to install program hosts with experience as reporters.

“They are extraordinarily talented and share the same CNN sensibility: versatility, determination and an inquisitive and empathetic approach to reporting the news,” the leaders said in a statement.

CNN has struggled with ratings challenges worsened by the

quickening pulse of people cutting the cord on cable television.

In July, Fox News Channel and MSNBC — both dominated by opinion programming in the evening — averaged 1.57 million and 1.12 million viewers respectively in prime time. CNN averaged 534,000, according to the Nielsen company. One of CNN’s most recogniz-

able veterans, Amanpour has hosted a program on the network’s international network and been virtually invisible domestically the past decade. Now she’ll host a regular news hour on Saturdays.

Since jumping from Fox News, Chris Wallace has hosted a wide-ranging interview show for HBO Max that was rebroadcast on CNN. Now he’ll return to familiar turf, a live political panel show, on Saturday mornings, the network said.

Heading into the 2024 campaign, political correspondent Kasie Hunt will host “Early Start” at 5 a.m. on weekdays. Phil Mattingly will be a new co-host with Poppy Harlow on the three-hour

“CNN This Morning” show.

“King Charles,” a limited-run series with Gayle King and Charles Barkley, will air on Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. Eastern starting this fall, CNN announced.

The show was the centerpiece of Licht’s prime-time strategy. He sought well-known personalities who could comment on the news and help CNN compete with more general-interest networks. But except for King and Barkley, the plans never came together and CNN is now abandoning that approach.

Capitol Hill correspondent Manu Raju will become the Sunday anchor of “Inside Politics,” under the new plans. Pamela Brown will anchor a weekday afternoon program, while Victor Blackwell has a new Saturday morning program. Alisyn Camerota will focus on long-form reporting.

This combination of images shows Christiane Amanpour at the world premiere of “Zoolander 2”in New York on Feb. 9, 2016, left, and Chris Wallace at the premiere of “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” on June 14, 2023, in Los Angeles.

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Is it time to ban electric vehicles?

What is indisputable is that EVs will cause far more deaths than Corvairs ever did.

THE NEW YORK Fire Department recently reported that so far this year there have been 108 lithium-ion battery fires in New York City, which have injured 66 people and killed 13.

According to FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, “There is not a small amount of fire, it (the vehicle) literally explodes.” The resulting fire is “very difficult to extinguish and so it is particularly dangerous.”

Last year there were more than 200 fires from batteries from e-bikes, EVs and other devices.

A fire ignited at an e-bike shop and killed four people near midnight on the morning of June 20. Two individuals were left in critical condition. The fire commissioner has warned New Yorkers that such devices could be very dangerous and typically explode in such a way that renders escape impossible.

FDNY also reports that in just three years, lithium-ion battery fires have surpassed those started by cooking and smoking as the most common causes of fatal fires in New York City. It’s happening all over the country as these blazes have become commonplace. Cars and e-bikes are randomly blowing up in driveways and garages.

Now let’s be honest: 13 deaths in a city the size of New York with some 8 million people is hardly an epidemic. Regulations should always be based on a cost versus benefit calculation, or there would be no cars at all.

And yet the same scaremongers on the left who have zero tolerance and want bans for small risks when it comes to everything from swimming pool diving boards, gas stoves, plastic straws, vaping, fireworks and so on, have a surprisingly high pain threshold when it comes to people dying or suffering critical injured from “green” electric battery fires.

Or consider this: In 1965, Ralph Nader almost single-handedly helped ban the popular Chevrolet Corvair — famous for its engine placed in the back trunk of the car. Nader’s bestselling shock book “Unsafe at Any Speed” declared the car was deadly. But there was no real evidence of that claim, and to this day there are no reliable statistics on how many passengers — if any — died in Corvairs from rear-end accidents.

What is indisputable is that EVs will cause far more deaths than Corvairs ever did.

One other example: There have been more fatalities in just one city in a single year from lithium-ion batteries in cars than all the people who died from the 1979 Three Mile Island nuclear plant accident — which was zero.

Yet, after the accident, thanks to the environmentalists’ fear campaign (with the help of the blockbuster antinuke movie “The China Syndrome”), no domestic nuclear plants were built for three decades. That is despite the fact

The Barack Obama cover-up

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama.

LAST WEEK, Tablet released a fascinating conversation with historian David Garrow, author of a massive unauthorized biography of former President Barack Obama in his early years titled “Rising Stars.” By all rights, the book should have been a massive hit upon its release in 2017. Instead, it underperformed. The revelations contained therein never hit the mainstream. And that simple fact, in and of itself, demonstrates a simple reality of the modern political era: The entire press apparatus has been dedicated, since at least 2008, to the proposition that Obama had to be protected from all possible damage.

Garrow’s book carried multiple bombshells for Obama.

Obama’s first autobiography — the egotist has already written several — “Dreams From My Father” told a story about how he broke up from a white girlfriend in his Chicago years over her failure to understand his desire for racial solidarity with black America. Actually, as Garrow’s book relates, the couple broke up because Obama refused to disown black antisemitism. Furthermore, as the book uncovers, Obama wrote letters to a girlfriend in which he “repeatedly fantasizes about making love to men.”

These are incredible allegations, to say the least. They were reported in the book. But as David Samuels of Tablet observes, the media were shockingly remiss in covering any of these stories: “’Rising Star’ highlights a remarkable lack of curiosity on the part of mainstream reporters and institutions about a man who almost instantaneously was treated less like a politician and more like the idol of an inter-elite cult.”

That was true in 2008, when the media steadfastly refused to take seriously reports about Obama’s attendance at an openly racist and antisemitic church for two decades. And it’s true in 2023, when the media still refuse to cover the fact that a huge number of President Joe Biden’s closest aides are

that nuclear plants emit no greenhouse gases.

But with EVs, the greens are pushing aside any concerns about the collateral damage of deaths and injuries. Biden wants to mandate that nearly ALL new cars sold in the U.S. be EVs by 2032. If that happens, many thousands of Americans may die or will be inured from electric vehicle fires.

All this is especially hypocritical because once upon a time the left’s mantra was “no trading blood for oil.” Now they are willing to trade blood in exchange for getting Americans to stop using oil. An irony of all this is that because of all the energy needed to produce windmills, solar panels and electric batteries, new studies are showing that the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to this “net zero” transition is close to zero. It turns out, green energy causes some pollution, too.

For the record, I’m not in favor of the government banning EVs or e-bikes or just about anything. I just believe that we should make policy decisions based on real and factual risk assessments, not false scares and sensationalism. As for the future of EVs, maybe it’s time for Ralph Nader to write a sequel to “Unsafe at Any Speed.”

Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation and a co-founder of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity.

Obama’s closest political allies. Obama resides in Washington, D.C.; all of the people who made policy for him now make policy for Biden. And yet nobody talks about the Obama influence in the current White House.

All of this is part of a broader pact on the part of every major apparatus in American life to mirror Obama’s perceptions of the world. In Obama’s own mind, he was a world-historical figure; that’s why, in 2010, when he experienced a rather predictable shellacking in a midterm election, he responded by suggesting that his opposition was actually motivated by vicious racism and brutal bigotry. The media mirrored that perspective; so did entertainment; so did tech companies. The immaculate, solid wall of support for Obama’s intersectional coalition is intimately connected to direct allegiance from the movers and shakers toward the Obama persona.

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama. Garrow concludes about Obama: “He has no interest in building the Democratic Party as an institution. I think that’s obvious. And I don’t think he had any truly deep, meaningful policy commitments other than the need to feel and to be perceived as victorious, as triumphant.” But that victory — that triumph — came at the expense of the American people, who were promised a racial conciliator and a man of honor by a media invested in that lie. When the truth materialized and our institutions continued to perpetuate the lie, our institutions collapsed. We live in the era of Barack Obama still.

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

SIDELINE REPORT

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Chadwell: Death of Liberty freshman was not football-related

Lynchburg, Virginia

First-year Liberty coach

Jamey Chadwell says the death of a freshman football player was not football-related. Chadwell says the team learned of the passing of 19-year-old Tajh Boyd of Chesapeake, Virginia, on Saturday. He declined to give further details about Boyd’s death, saying he wanted to respect the privacy of the player’s family. Chadwell says the team held a service for Boyd on Sunday, and that rain fell following the service. After that, he said, a rainbow appeared over the stadium.

GOLF

Auburn grad student

Schofill wins U.S.

Women’s Amateur

Los Angeles

Megan Schofill won the U.S. Women’s Amateur on Sunday at Bel-Air Country Club, beating Latanna Stone 4 and 3 in the 36hole final. The 22-year-old Schofill, from Monticello, Florida, is a graduate student entering her fifth season at Auburn. The 21-year-old Stone, from Riverview, Florida, is entering her fifth year at LSU. After Stone won the par-4 24th with a birdie, Schofill took the par-4 25th and par-5 26th with birdies for a 4-up advantage. They halved the next five holes with pars, Stone won the par-5 32nd and the match ended on the par-4 33rd when Stone’s 5-foot par putt lipped out.

NFL Falcons cut former starting LB Walker Flowery Branch, Ga.

The Atlanta Falcons waived 2022 starting linebacker Mykal Walker on Sunday, two days after he started and had four tackles in the Falcons’ 19-3 preseason win at Miami. Falcons coach Arthur Smith did not start his firstteam players against the Dolphins. On Sunday, the team signed linebacker Frank Ginda, the 2023 USFL defensive player of the year. The Falcons did not announce an injury to Walker in Friday night’s game, but the 2020 fourth-round draft pick apparently was unavailable for the remainder of training camp. Walker had 107 tackles with two interceptions and one sack in 16 games, including 12 starts, in 2022.

BASKETBALL

Brunson helps U.S. beat Spain in World Cup tuneup

Malaga, Spain

The U.S. World Cup basketball team got its first big test of the summer Sunday, and a perfect shooting night from Jalen Brunson helped ensure the Americans passed. Brunson was 9 for 9 from the field on the way to a team-best 21 points and the U.S. pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat Spain 98-88 in a pre-World Cup exhibition between tournament favorites. Spain is the No. 1-ranked team in the world according to FIBA; the U.S. is No. 2.

Cavaliers player wounded in deadly attack returns for 2023 season

The Associated Press CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia running back Mike Hollins knows he will never be the same and admits that the position of football on his priorities list “has shrunk.” He still can’t wait to run onto the field with his Cavaliers brothers for their opener this season. “I can only imagine the emotions that’ll be flowing through my body. I just — I literally can’t. I have no words because the spring game hit me like a sack of rocks, and I didn’t expect it at all, so I can only imagine,” he said. “I’m ready, though. I’m ready for it.”

Hollins, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of two survivors of a shooting last November that left three teammates dead. He was shot in the back, needed several surgeries and spent a week in the hospi-

tal before beginning a long rehabilitation.

The shootings, which also left student Marlee Morgan injured, rocked the team and the community, and it caused the Cavaliers to cancel their final two games.

Hollins uplifted his teammates when he returned for spring practices four months later even though he wasn’t cleared for full contact yet. That came about midway through the 15 sessions, and he scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the spring game. He celebrated the touchdown by placing the ball on the name of D’Sean Perry, painted in the end zone along with those of Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler, those killed on a school bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C. A former Virginia player, Christopher Jones Jr., is accused of the shootings and awaiting trial.

Throughout his recovery, which he admits is more complete physically than mentally, Hollins “has been a superhero,” roommate and fellow running back Perris Jones said. “Experiencing what he experienced and carrying himself with as much grace and perseverance as he does is inspirational to see day in and day out. His spirit is truly unbroken, and he embodies that every day.”

Hollins knows no one would have questioned him, or any of last year’s team, had they decided not to play again or to move to another school. He also knows to keep things in perspective as they play to honor their fallen teammates.

“Us being here and being able to play again and touch the field and just come together as a team is doing that legacy justice in itself. We don’t have to go out and try to ... go undefeated or win a champion-

Nowitzki, Gasol, Parker give international flavor to Basketball HOF enshrinement

The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Fans waved a German flag and chanted Dirk Nowitzki’s name when the former Dallas Mavericks big man walked the red carpet into Symphony Hall on Saturday night for the Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony.

Tony Parker’s fans whooped it up when he took the stage to lead off the proceedings. “There are a lot of French people in town. Sorry,” the San Antonio Spurs point guard said.

Spain was well-represented, too, with Pau Gasol shouting out his national team — “mi familia” — before joining what may be the greatest international class of inductees in the Springfield shrine’s history.

“I want to give a special mention to those first Europeans, who came here, across the ocean, who took a chance,” said Gasol, who fell in love with the sport when the 1992 Olympics were held in his hometown, Barcelona. “I was 12. It changed my life. The Dream Team showed us how basketball could be played.”

Like Gasol, Parker was won over by the 1992 Summer Olympics, when the Hall of Famer-laden Americans drubbed the French national by 50 points. But when it came time to play in the European

championships, Gasol and Spain were often in the way.

“Sometimes I wish Pau Gasol was not born,” Parker quipped.

The Class of 2023 brought a distinctly international flavor to the basketball hall.

Nowitzki was the first European-born player to win the NBA MVP award, in 2007. Parker’s NBA Finals MVP award that year was the first for a European. In 2002, Gasol was the NBA’s first in-

ternational rookie of the year. The Spurs were well represented, too, led by longtime coach and five-time NBA champion Gregg Popovich, and Parker, the point guard on four of those title-winning teams. Becky Hammon, who after a career in the WNBA joined the Spurs as the first woman to serve as a full-time NBA assistant coach, was also honored. Gasol played his last two healthy seasons with the Spurs.

ship,” he said.

That desire to honor their teammates has been cited by several players that decided to return, including defensive lineman Chico Bennett and Perris Jones.

“It’s a shame it has to happen in this way,” Bennett said, “but now that we’re given a platform, we’re going to make the most of it. I look forward to being able to do that and honoring them through our play and doing that to the best of our ability.”

When Hollins suits up for Virginia’s game against Tennessee in Nashville on Sept. 2, he said, he will be “carrying something with me.”

“It’ll always weigh on you,” he said. “There will never be a day where you won’t remember it or feel something missing from your heart when thinking about it.” Getting back on the field, though, sure might help.

“Coach Pop — it starts with him,” Parker said.

In her speech, Hammond broke down when thanking Popovich.

“I know you weren’t trying to be courageous when you hired me,” she said. “You changed the trajectory of my life, and so many other girls, and young women.”

Undrafted by the WNBA, Hammon went on to be a six-time AllStar before joining Popovich in San Antonio. She coached the Aces to a WNBA championship last season.

“The amount of times I hear ‘no’ or had a door shut was the amount of times I was going to go through a chimney or bust through a window to find a way,” Hammon said. “I wouldn’t change the hard parts, because the hard parts were necessary to build the courage for whatever comes next.”

Others enshrined include Dwyane Wade — a key piece of three NBA championship teams in Miami — and former NC State coach Jim Valvano, who led the Wolfpack to the 1983 NCAA title and went on to be a broadcaster and advocate for cancer research. Valvano was inducted posthumously.

Rounding out the class were the silver medal-winning 1976 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team; former Purdue coach Gene Keady, a seven-time Big Ten coach of the year; former Texas A&M women’s coach Gary Blair, who took two teams to the Final Four; longtime coach at Amherst and twotime Division III national champion David Hixon; and Gene Bess — who won 1,300 games as a junior college coach at Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

AP PHOTO

Virginia running back Mike Hollins, pictured last season against UNC, was wounded in a shooting attack last November that left three of his teammates dead.

AP PHOTO Gregg Popovich speaks during his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as presenters David Robinson, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, from left, listen Saturday in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Vu captures 2nd major of year with Women’s British Open win

The Associated Press

WALTON-ON-THE-HILL, England — Lilia Vu was already smiling when her long, snaking birdie putt dropped into the cup on the 18th green, confirming her — not that it was ever in doubt — as the Women’s British Open champion and a two-time major winner.

The 25-year-old Californian has plenty to smile about.

A first LPGA Tour win. Two major championships. An imminent ranking of No. 1 in the world.

How that’s for a breakthrough season?

“It sounds almost unreal,” Vu said.

With accurate driving and relentless reliability on the greens, Vu took any potential drama out of the final round of the year’s last major by staying largely out of trouble at Walton Heath and shooting 5-under 67 for a six-stroke victory on Sunday.

She began the day tied for the lead with popular home hope Charley Hull, with 11 players within five shots of them. By the time she teed off on No. 11, Vu led by five after seeing all of her rivals — including top-

ranked Nelly Korda — falter one by one.

Hull, roared on by the locals on a course located just 30 minutes from where she grew up, holed out from a greenside bunker for eagle at the par-5 11th to trim the lead to three shots.

Vu responded with an approach to 3 feet for birdie at No. 12 and was never threatened down the stretch.

She walked down No. 18 leading by five shots and, after rolling in a sixth birdie of her round, she was drenched in champagne by fellow players.

Vu won an LPGA event in Thailand in February, then the Chevron Championship in a playoff two months later. Since then, she has missed the cut in four of her six stroke-play events, saying she struggled to deal with a change in expectations as a major champion.

“How I felt afterward,” she said, “honestly I was thinking those two wins were a fluke.”

Now, she is the first female player to win two majors in the same year since Jin Young Ko in 2019, and the first American woman since Juli Inkster in 1999. From being outside the top 100

Stanly County high school football preview

The wood-bat team used a late hot stretch to finish 18-17 for the summer

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

After dipping to a 12-30 combined record last season, Stanly County’s four high school football teams are looking to improve as the 2023 season kicks off this week.

With a mixture of old and new, the teams in the county are led by two experienced coaches as well as a pair of new hires.

West Stanly Colts

Rocky River Conference 2A/3A

2022 Record: 3-7, 0-4 RRC

midway through 2022, her first year back on the LPGA Tour, she will become Monday the fourth American to top the women’s ranking since it was introduced in 2006.

And heading into next month’s Solheim Cup, what a year this has been for U.S. players. Three of the five women’s majors have been won by an American — Allisen Corpuz won the Women’s U.S. Open title at Pebble Beach — and that’s not happened since 2014.

Vu finished on 14-under 274 for the tournament, a great score on a heathland course southwest of London that provided a tough test for the world’s best, mainly because of the thick heather running beside the fairways. She had five bogeys all week. The only one Sunday came at the par-5 No. 15 when she drove into the heather for the only time in the round and then found a bunker with her third shot.

“It just comes down to not thinking about winning, just playing one shot at a time,” Vu said. “This golf course forces you to do that. It really tests you. That was my only goal. To drive the ball well and give myself chances for birdie.”

Over in Red Cross, seventh-year coach Brett Morton and the Colts are hoping to improve from two consecutive three-win seasons and return to the success that the team enjoyed a few years ago in the Rocky River Conference.

West’s offensive attack will be largely revamped with last year’s prime weapons — quarterback Jett Thomas, dual-threat Matthew Parker and running back Shane Mecimore — no longer in the fold.

The Colts are set to travel to South Stanly on Aug. 18 for a road matchup with the Rowdy Rebel Bulls. In last year’s season opener against the Bulls, West unleashed a 45-0 onslaught on South that started a three-game winning streak that was followed by seven straight losses to cap off the 2022 campaign.

North Stanly Comets Yadkin Valley Conference 1A/2A

2022 Record: 6-5, 3-2 YVC

Over the past two seasons, the Comets have been the only Stanly team with a winning record, but that doesn’t mean change isn’t in the air. First-year coach Chad Little is the new voice in the locker room following the off-season retirement of eighth-year coach Scott Crisco, who totaled 60 wins

with North.

With former star running back Cameron Smith gone, senior quarterback Chance Blake will be asked to step up along with an experienced wideout room of seniors Jordan Stewart, Dylan Poplin, Quinton Harris and Caden Bradford.

The Comets host Anson on Aug. 18 for their season opener in the first of five nonconference games.

South Stanly Rebel Bulls Yadkin Valley Conference 1A/2A

2021 Record: 0-10, 0-5 YVC

It’s no secret that the team from Norwood is hunting for a change of pace. The Bulls are looking for their first winning season in five years and first conference title in more than three decades. Firstyear coach Terry Shankle takes over after five seasons with former coach Ryan Ochier at the helm.

With just four total wins in the past three years, South imploded last season and was forced to forfeit its final two games due to injuries, finishing with an 0-10 record.

Senior quarterback Drew Gaddy is back to lead a roster in flux and orchestrate a new game plan to try and pull the Bulls out of the cellar of the Yadkin Valley Conference.

Albemarle Bulldogs

Yadkin Valley Conference 1A/2A

2022 Record: 3-8, 2-3 YVC

It’s been a decade since the Bulldogs put together a winning season, but seventh-year head coach Richard Davis has seen strides in his team over the past few seasons, including a series of wins last year that earned his team a state playoff appearance (a 49-20 loss to Murphy).

Much like last year, the Bulldogs’ offense is led by junior quarterback Dre Davis, senior running back Jaylen Pinkney and junior wide receiver Ja’Zyion Geiger.

The Bulldogs will travel to Asheboro on Aug. 18 and Trinity on Aug. 25 before coming home for their home opener against West Stanly.

Preakness considering changing the timing of the second Triple Crown race

Officials are considering moving the race to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby

The Associated Press Preakness officials say they are considering moving the second Triple Crown race back to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby instead of two weeks later, which would change the timing that has been in place for decades.

Aidan Butler, CEO of 1/ST Racing, which owns and runs Pimlico

Race Course in Baltimore where the Preakness takes place, said it’s necessary to take a close look at making changes.

“Discussion around spacing out the schedule of the Triple Crown is nothing new, and we believe the time has come to advance those discussions to the next step,” Butler said in a statement sent to The Associated Press on Friday. “Allowing additional time between the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes would give horses a greater opportunity to prepare and be ready between the Derby and the second leg of the Triple Crown.”

Butler, who floated the possibility most recently this week in a statement given to Thoroughbred Daily News, citing horse safety among other reasons, acknowledged moving the Preakness would have implications around the industry.

“We look forward to engaging with all stakeholders to work through questions and concerns,” Butler said. “The future of the Triple Crown is best decided collectively, but we are committed to seeing this conversation through to a positive result.”

Other stakeholders are not willing to make this drastic of a

change.

The Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes have been run over a span of five weeks beginning with the first Saturday in May since 1969, with the exception of 2020 when the races happened out of order because of the pandemic.

A spokesman for Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, home of the Derby, said the track had no comment. Any changes to the Preakness likely would not affect the Derby leading off the Triple Crown.

Moving the Preakness from the third Saturday in May to early June would have major implications on the Belmont Stakes, the 1½-mile third leg of the Triple Crown at Belmont Park in New York.

New York Racing Association vice president of communications Pat McKenna said the orga-

nization, which runs the Belmont “has concerns about fundamental changes to the structure of the Triple Crown.”

“We have no plans to move the date of the Belmont Stakes,” McKenna said in an email to the AP.

Changing the timing of the races also was debated years ago during a lengthy drought without a Triple Crown champion. American Pharoah winning all three races in 2015 and then Justify accomplishing the feat in 2018 quieted the conversation until recently.

Horse deaths this spring at Churchill Downs, which caused the track to suspend operations to investigate possible causes, have led to larger conversations around the sport. The federally mandated Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority recently went into place to oversee track safety, medication and doping and standardize the industry around the U.S.

AP PHOTO

Preakness officials say they are considering moving the second Triple Crown race back to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby instead of two weeks later, which would change the timing that has been in place for more than half a century.

Lilia Vu celebrates her victory in the 2023 AIG Women’s Open at Walton Heath, in Surrey, England, on Sunday.

AP PHOTO

The Pentagon plans to shake up DC National Guard

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Pentagon is developing plans to restructure the National Guard in Washington, D.C., in a move to address problems highlighted by the chaotic response to the Jan. 6 riot and safety breaches during the 2020 protests over the murder of George Floyd, The Associated Press has learned.

The changes under discussion would transfer the District of Columbia’s aviation units, which came under sharp criticism during the protests when a helicopter flew dangerously low over a crowd. In exchange, the district would get more military police, which is often the city’s most significant need, as it grapples with crowd control and large public events.

Several current and former officials familiar with the talks spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. They said no final decisions have been made. A key sticking point is who would

be in control of the D.C. Guard — a politically divisive question that gets to the heart of what has been an ongoing, turbulent issue. Across the country, governors control their National Guard units and can make decisions on deploying them to local disasters and other needs. But D.C. is not a state, so the president is in charge but gives that authority to the defense secretary, who generally delegates it to the Army secretary.

According to officials, Defense

Secretary Lloyd Austin is weighing two options: maintaining the current system or handing control to U.S. Northern Command, which is in charge of homeland defense.

Senior officials have argued in favor of Northern Command, which would take control out of the hands of political appointees in Washington who may be at odds with the D.C. government, and giving it to nonpartisan military commanders who already oversee homeland defense. Others, however, believe the decision-making should remain at the Pentagon, mirroring the civilian control that governors have on their

troops. The overall goal, officials said, is not to decrease the size of the district’s Guard, but reform it and ensure it has the units, equipment and training to do the missions it routinely faces. The proposal to shift the aviation forces is largely an Army decision. It would move the D.C. Air Guard wing and its aircraft to the Maryland Guard, and the Army aviation unit, with its helicopters, to Virginia’s Guard.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office did not respond to a request for comment Friday on the proposed changes.

But Bowser and other local officials have claimed that the mayor’s office should have sole authority to deploy the local guard, arguing that the D.C. mayor has the responsibilities of any governor without the extra authorities or tools.

When faced with a potential security event, the mayor of D.C. has to go to the Pentagon — usually the Army secretary — to request National Guard assistance. That was true during the violent protests in

the city over the killing of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in 2020, and later as an angry mob stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

As the Jan. 6 riot was unfolding, city leaders were making frantic calls to Army leaders, asking them to send Guard troops to the Capitol where police and security were being overrun. City leaders complained heatedly about delays in the response as the Pentagon considered Bowser’s National Guard request. City police ended up reinforcing the Capitol Police.

Army leaders, in response, said the district was demanding help but not providing the details and information necessary to determine what forces were needed and how they would be used.

Army officials were concerned about taking the Guard troops who were arrayed around the city doing traffic duty and sending them into a riot, because they were not prepared and didn’t have appropriate gear. And they criticized the city for repeatedly insisting it would not need security help when asked by

federal authorities in the days leading up to Jan. 6.

The swirling confusion spurred congressional hearings and accusations that political considerations influenced the Trump administration’s response to the unrest in the Democratic-majority city. Defense officials rejected those charges, and blamed the city.

Within the Pentagon, however, there are broader concerns that D.C. is too quick to seek National Guard troops to augment law enforcement shortfalls in the city that should be handled by police. In recent days, a city council member suggested the D.C. Guard might be needed to help battle spiking local crime.

The restructuring is an effort to smooth out the process and avoid communications problems if another crisis erupts.

An Army investigation in April 2021 sharply criticized the D.C. Guard, saying troops lacked clear guidance and didn’t fully understand how to use helicopters appropriately during the civil unrest in June 2020.

US commits to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wild, settling lawsuit

The Associated Press

The U.S. government will settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina, where nearly three dozen of the canine species are believed to still run free.

The conservation groups sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2020 after it stopped releasing captive-bred wolves. Eastern North Carolina is the only place in the world where they roam wild outside of zoos and wildlife refuges. The Southern Environmental Law Center filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Red Wolf Coalition, Defenders of Wildlife and the Animal Welfare Institute. A settlement

agreement was reached Wednesday, according to documents filed in U.S. District Court in North Carolina.

“For 25 years, North Carolina was home to one of the most successful predator reintroductions in the world,” Ramona McGee, a Southern Environmental Law Center attorney, said in a statement. “This settlement puts us on a path to restoring the red wolf to its rightful place as a celebrated success story.”

Red wolves once occupied much of the Eastern U.S. but were driven to near extinction by trapping, hunting and habitat loss before they were reintroduced to North Carolina in 1987. Their range is limited to five North Carolina counties. Scientists at zoos and other sites have

maintained a captive population of nearly 300 wolves in recent years.

After red wolves were reintroduced, the state’s wild population grew beyond 100 and remained stable through 2012.

Wolf numbers were bolstered by releases of captive-born pups and sterilization of coyotes that competed for space. But those approaches were halted in 2015 amid pressure from conservative politicians and landowners who deemed wolves a nuisance.

Red wolves are in an area dominated by farms and private land. At least 96 red wolves died of gunshot wounds over the decades.

Some landowners have said that the wolves have made it harder to fight coyotes. A federal judge in 2014 banned night hunting of coy-

otes in red wolf territory because the canines are easily mixed up.

By the time conservation groups filed their 2020 lawsuit, they said there could be as few as seven red wolves living in the wild. The groups argued that federal wildlife officials violated the Endangered Species Act through actions that included halting the release of captive-bred wolves in 2015.

The lawsuit prompted a federal judge in 2021 to order the Fish and Wildlife Service to produce a plan to bolster the wild wolves’ numbers as the lawsuit continued.

U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle noted in his order that the conservation groups were likely to succeed, while demonstrating that “extinction is a very real possibility.”

According to the settlement agreement, the Fish and Wildlife Service will develop and publish red wolf release plans for a period of eight years. The plans will include “metrics that can be used to measure performance.”

The agency wrote that it “acknowledges the importance of the Eastern North Carolina red wolf population” and committed to managing in a way that’s consistent with the Endangered Species Act.

As of June, the Fish and Wildlife Service said there 16 known or collared red wolves living in the wild, while estimating the total wild population to be 32 to 34. There were 278 red wolves in the captive population.

Johanna Hamburger, a senior attorney with the Animal Welfare Institute, said in a statement Wednesday that the agreement “pulls wild red wolves back from the brink of extinction.”

“When we filed this lawsuit, scientists warned that if the (Fish and Wildlife Service) continued down that path, red wolves could be extinct in the wild by 2024,” she said.

(Taylor) Drye

April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023

Pamela Eudy Harris

Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at her home.

Barbara was born April 17, 1936 in North Carolina to the late Robert Lee Taylor and the late Eva Belle Watts Taylor.

September 30, 1954 - August 11, 2023

She was also preceded in death by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor.

Survivors include children, Debbie (Mike) Williams of Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Curry of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Samantha (Destiny) Smith of Oakboro, Bradley Smith of Oakboro, Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterin-law, Beatrice Goodman; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved cats, Bo and Garfield.

Pamela Jane Eudy Harris was born on September 30, 1954 and entered heaven on August 11, 2023 with loved ones by her side. Her husband of 49 years, Raymond Steven Harris, became Pam’s high school sweetheart at Albemarle Senior High School in 1972 the moment he laid eyes on her in biology class. They have been inseparable ever since. Pam and Steve married at Anderson Grove Baptist Church in Albemarle on June 16, 1974. Once Steve joined the US Air Force the couple embarked on an exciting journey that took them to Florida, Panama, Colorado, Germany, and then back home to Albemarle when Steve retired from the US Air Force.

January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023

June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023

March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023

Anthony "Tony" Gene Archer

Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, of Norwood died Sunday morning, January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes.

February 1, 1959 - August 8, 2023

Tony Archer, 64, of Albemarle, NC passed away Tuesday, August 8, 2023, unexpectedly at his home.

Tony was born February 1, 1959 in Albemarle, NC and was the son of the late Robert Eugune (Bob) Archer and Macie Mann Hinson.

Dwight was born January 24, 1939 in Stanly County to the late Walter Virgil and Martha Adkins Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate of Norwood High School and was a United States Army Veteran. He was a member of Cedar Grove United Methodist Church where he had served as church treasurer and choir member. He began his career with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Department moving to the Norwood Police Department and retiring as Chief of Police with the Town of Norwood after many years of service.

Tony attended Albemarle Senior High School and worked for many years in Albemarle in the textile industry and later as a traveling electrical technician in the construction industry. Tony was a member of Grace Baptist Church.

Dwight was an avid gardener, bird watcher and Carolina fan.

Treva C. Chrisco

September 25, 1924 — August 11, 2023

James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Anson Health and Rehab.

Speechkle Jermeca Harris

Mr. Roseboro was born on June 23, 1967 to the late Robert and Delena Shipp Roseboro. He graduated from South Stanly High School and was employed by Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching football and basketball, especially the Carolina TarHeels and Miami.

Treva Jane Cox Chrisco, 98 years of age, of Stanfield, passed away Friday, August 11, 2023.

Mrs. Chrisco was born September 25, 1924 in Erect, NC, to the late Robert and Mae Cox. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, J.D. "Bo" Chrisco; brother, June Cox; and sisters, Marie Cox, Helen Cox Beane, and Brenda Cox Davis.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Barbara Lee Roseboro, Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, Henrietta Ingram, and Harold Roseboro.

Pam and Steve raised two successful sons, Bryan and Chris. Pam was immensely proud of her sons. Pam and Steve have two beautiful grandchildren who Pam talked about regularly. Dylan Harris, 22, and Chloe Harris, 20 both reside in Albemarle and were the apple of Pam’s eye.

Pam’s loving parents Etta Jane Sells Eudy and William Price Eudy of Stanly County are also awaiting Pam’s arrival in heaven.

Barbara was a member of Oakboro Baptist Church for over 60 years. She worked over 30 years at Stanly Knitting Mills. After just two years of retirement, she began managing the Oakboro Senior Center and did that for 18 years until this past week. Barbara was known for her good cooking and always taking care of others. She also loved going on day long shopping trips - she could out walk and out shop people half her age. She kept her mind and body active through gardening, word searches, and various other hobbies.

Jahalia Misenheimer Frick

September 2, 1933 - August 11, 2023

Jahalia Misenheimer Frick, 89, of Richfield, NC, passed away Friday, August 11, 2023 in Trinity Place, Albemarle, NC.

She was born September 2, 1933 in Stanly County, NC, daughter of the late Arthur Monroe Misenheimer and Naomi Sells Misenheimer. Jahalia was a member of Paul's Crossing Baptist Church.

Jahalia was preceded in death by her husband, James Sylvester Frick and two sons, Stanley Frick and Arthur Frick, two brothers Jerry Misenheimer and Lowell Misenheimer, and a sister Anne Lee Misenheimer. She is survived by two sons, Danny Frick (Georgia) of Mt. Airy, NC, and Lowell Frick (Cathy), of Richfield, NC; sister, Geraldine M. Poplin and husband Gary Wilkinson of New London; daughter-inlaw Dianne Frick of Richfield, seven grandchildren, ten greatgrandchildren, four great-greatgrandchildren.

He is survived by his daughter, Megan Archer of Albemarle, NC; aunt, Patty Morton of Albemarle, NC, and his beloved dog “Muffin”. He is also survived by Lisa Morton and David Morton, who were special people in his life, along with many cousins and their families. He was also preceded in death by a son, Justin Archer, a brother, Doug Archer, and a sister Kathy Archer Lambert.

He is survived by his wife Hilda Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Lowe (David) of Norwood; one sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Lowe.

He was preceded in death by his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty. Memorials may be made to Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs Road, Norwood, NC 28128.

Phyllis Morgan

Rush

April 20, 1943 - August 7, 2023

Phyllis Maxine Maner Morgan Rush, 80, of Albemarle, NC, passed away Monday, August 7, 2023 at her home. She was born April 20, 1943 in Stanly County, NC, to the late Willie Herman Maner and Sally Louise Hudson Maner. She worked as branch manager Liberty Finance and Welcome Finance. She was a longtime member of Albemarle First Assembly.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, John Benjiman Rush and a brother, Grady Herman Maner. She is survived by two sons, Jimmie Price "Jay"

Morgan, Jr. (Jennifer) of St. Petersburg, FL and Brian Dale Morgan (Pearl) of Albemarle, NC; two brothers, Burrell Maner and Ned Maner both of Albemarle, NC; two sisters, Sharon Lambert of Shelby, NC, and Doris Young of Raleigh, NC; a granddaughter, Sydney Morgan Smith (Kodi) and three step grandchildren, Callie Morgan, Cassie Morgan, and Tyler Morgan, great-granddaughter Adelyn, step great-grandchildren Amelia, Aiden, Skylar, and Emerson.

Mrs. Chrisco loved bluegrass music and wrote a weekly music column for 20 years for an Asheboro newspaper, plus feature articles for several music magazines including Bluegrass Unlimited. Most of all, Mrs. Chrisco was a devoted mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother.

He is survived by his sisters: Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards of Albemarle, Mary Roseboro of Washington DC, and Marion Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of Norwood, and Van Horne; a special friend of over 40 years, Michelle McLendon of the home; special nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knya Little, and Laquanza Crump; special nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and God daughter, Daphne Johnson; and special friends, Vetrella Johnson and Ben McLendon.

Survivors include daughter, Sandy C. Hatley and her husband, Gary, of Stanfield; her granddaughters, Katie Brooks and husband, Nathan, of Concord, Kellie Sides and husband, Brandon, of Stanfield, and Kacie Miller and husband, Josh, of Cary; sister, Penny Garner of Asheboro; six great-grandchildren, Landyn and Josie Brooks, Abram and Andi Sides, and Maggie and Oliver Brooks; and 2 nephews and 1 niece.

April 16, 1975 ~ August 4, 2023

Our Heavenly Father, maker of all, called Speechkle Jermeca Harris, from labor to rest, Friday, August 4, 2023. Affectionately known as "Meca", she was born April 16, 1975, in Stanly County, North Carolina; and was the daughter of Carolyn Jordan Harris and the late Ronald Edwards Harris. Meca was loving, kind and always brightened our days. She enjoyed spending time with her family who she loved unconditionally. Resting in the palm of God's Hand, Meca has made it home and has joined her father and other family members in a place where the woes of the world are no more, and every day is like Sunday. Meca has finished her life's journey. The music is quiet, and the sun has set, but the shared beautiful memories will never be forgotten by her son, Larry Saunders (Dominique Mallette); daughter, Kristian Saunders; grandchildren, Aubrielle and Larry Saunders Jr.; mother, Carolyn Harris; brother, Derek Crump; sisters: Shunquetta Crump, Carie Boston, and Keajah Jackson; God mother, Diane Gilliams; special friends: Candra Fowlkes, Pamela Stevenson, Tasha Brown, Kenya Hayes, Monica Funderburk, and Moe Young; a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

John grew up in the Millingport community where he drove a school bus and worked at the local gas station during his High School years. He graduated from Millingport High in 1954 and entered into service with the US Airforce immediately afterward. Upon return from the service, he and his high school sweetheart Julie were married in 1956. He graduated from Nashville Auto Diesel College later in 1959 and began his career as a diesel mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Company, moving his growing family to Charlotte where they lived until their retirement.

When John purchased his first Model A Ford at the age of 17, he said that he took the car to the community mechanic when he had a small problem.The mechanic told him that if he was going to keep the car, he needed to learn to work on it. This is when John’s passion for Model A Fords began and how he spent his happiest days with his best friends from around the globe for the rest of his life!

At age 50, after years as a Detroit Diesel Mechanic he and Julie decided to take the plunge and open a full Model A Restoration Shop. They thrived at their shop in Cornelius, NC until their retirement in 1998 when they moved back to Cabarrus County. John once again set up shop in his back yard garage where he attracted a loyal group of friends who visited almost daily. While on the farm in Gold Hill, John also began a lifelong love with Alis Chalmers tractors after he restored his Dad’s tractor and began amassing his collection of tractors as well.

John restored many cars of achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Awardthe highest award given to members

Terry Ray Barringer

July 15, 1959 - August 8, 2023

Terry Ray Barringer, 64, of Richfield, NC, passed away Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at his home.

Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.

Mr. Barringer was born July 15, 1959 in Rowan County, NC to the late Ray Monroe Barringer and Jules Shank Barringer.

He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.

Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men.

Maxine Parsons

September 13, 1933 — August 10, 2023

Maxine Parsons, 89, of Albemarle, passed away Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Autumn Care of Biscoe.

Terry is survived by his wife, Lisa Misenheimer Barringer of the home. He is also survived by three daughters Dallas Rogers (Charles Tanner) of Greensboro, Jackie Farley (Ryan) of Baltimore, MD, Whitney Geiger (Erik) of Philadelphia, three sisters Jan B. Myers (Winn) of Richfield, Joy Medlin (Guy) of Richfield, Lori Burris (Dale) of Richfield, two grandchildren Vivian and Vincent Farley and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.

He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree. We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

Maxine was born September 13, 1933, in Stanly County to the late Walter Curtis Medlin and the late Odella Blye Baucom Medlin. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Herbert Clifford Parsons, Sr.; grandson, Chris Burris; 5 brothers, Hobert, A.C., Vernon, Edgar, and Walter Medlin; and beloved sister, Vera Smith.

John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) of Asheville, NC and Seth William McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Meredith, Grant, Victoria and Ronan. John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Brenda Kimrey, a nephew Jason Myers, and three siblings who passed away as infants.

Survivors include four sons, Bill (Shirley) Burris, Jeffery (Sharon) Burris, Herbert (Maggie) Parsons, Jr., Howard Max Parsons; three grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren, 4 great-greatgrandchildren; and special nephew, Steve Smith.

October 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023

Helen Jones Morris

February 26, 1930 - August 6, 2023

Helen Jones Morris, 93, of Albemarle, NC, passed away Sunday, August 6, 2023 in Trinity Place.

She was born February 26, 1930 in Aniston, AL, to the late Henry D. Jones and Zener Morrison Jones. Helen formally worked with Dawson Inc. She taught classes of knitting, sewing, and crocheting at Stanly Community College. Helen was a member of Prospect Baptist Church, where she served meals when needed.

Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, went home into God’s presence on January 10 after a sudden illness and a valiant week-long fight in ICU. Doris was born on October 11, 1944, in the mountains of Marion, NC while her father was away fighting in the US Navy during World War II. Raymond Jones was so proud to return after the war and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in Durham, NC and graduated from Durham High School. She furthered her studies at Watts Hospital School of Nursing in Durham and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1966.

Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters Amy and Laura. Doris raised Amy and Laura in North Augusta, SC.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Wyman Ernest Morris. She is survived by two sons, Doug Morris of Albemarle, NC and Terrell Morris of New London, NC; a daughter, Ann Stuntz of Matthews, NC; a brother, Marvin Jones (Shirley) of Carroll County, GA; five grandchildren, Sloan Stuntz, Gage Stuntz, Samantha Morris, Davey Morris and Megan Morris and four great-grandchildren, Bailey Morris, Alex Tomberlin, Alexie Morris and Lillyan Morris.

Charles "Chip" Emery Osborne, III

May 13, 1962 — August 8, 2023

Doris was an incredible neonatal intensive care nurse for most of her career, and this was her passion. The Augusta Chronicle did a feature on her in 1985. She was a clinical nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia at University Hospital NICU and worked there for 20 years. During this time, Doris mentored young nurses and assisted in saving the lives of so many babies. She also worked for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle. She especially loved helping at church with older adults, youth, and children.

Charles Emery "Chip" Osborne, III, 61, of New London, passed away Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at his home.

Chip was born May 13, 1962, in Greensboro, North Carolina to Geraldine Kay Coble Osborne and the late Charles Emery Osborne, Jr.

She was especially talented at sewing from a young age and made gifts for friends, Christmas ornaments, Halloween Costumes, doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, outfits for Amy and Laura, and Christening gowns for each of her grandchildren.

Survivors include mother, Geraldine Coble Osborne of Pleasant Garden, NC; fiancé, Jill Turner of the home; son, Cade Turner and daughter, Lauren Osborne; and sister, Tammy (Dan) Faulk of Pleasant Garden, NC.

Doris was preceded in death by her father Arthur Raymond Jones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Jones, and her sister Maryanne Jones Brantley.

Survivors include her two precious daughters: Amy Cameron Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.

Chip graduated high school from Southeast Guilford. His passion for sports followed him after his high school and college career and he coached multiple football, baseball, and track and field teams throughout his life. Chip started his firefighting service at Thomasville Fire Department and served with numerous municipalities during his career as a firefighter, including Mt. Airy as Chief.

STATE & NATION

Biden’s reelection bid faces vulnerabilities in wake of special counsel appointment

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — As he gears up for reelection, President Joe Biden is already facing questions about his ability to convince voters that the economy is performing well. There’s skepticism about the 80-year-old president’s ability to manage a second term. And on Friday, Biden faced a fresh setback when Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel to probe his son, Hunter.

Biden’s challenges pale in comparison with his predecessor and possible future rival, Donald Trump, who is facing three criminal indictments, with additional charges expected soon. But the appointment of the special counsel was nonetheless a reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Biden as he wages another election campaign in a deeply uncertain political climate. There was little immediate sign that Garland’s decision meaningfully changed Biden’s standing within his party. If anything, it underscored the unprecedented nature of the next election. Rather than a battle of ideas waged on the traditional campaign trail, the next push for the presidency may be shaped by sudden legal twists in courtrooms from Washington to Delaware and Miami.

“Prior to Trump, this would be a big deal,” New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said of Friday’s announcement. “Now, I don’t think it means anything. Trump has made everyone so numb to this stuff.”

Referring to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, Buckley added, “Because of how dismissive MAGA America is to the very real crimes of Trump and his family, it has numbed the minds of swing voters and Democratic voters or activists who would normally be fully engaged and outraged.”

Polling has consistently shown that Democratic voters were not excited about Biden’s reelection even before Garland’s announcement.

Just 47% of Democrats wanted

Biden to run again in 2024, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in April. Democrats’ enthusiasm for Biden’s presidential campaign has consistently trailed behind Republicans’ enthusiasm for Trump’s: 55% of Republicans said they wanted Trump to run again in the APNORC poll. And Biden’s approval rating in polling by Gallup stood at 41% on average over the last three months. Only Jimmy Carter notched a lower average rating in Gallup’s polling at this point in his

presidency, while ratings for Trump were about the same at 43%.

Garland announced Friday that he was naming David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in Delaware, as the special counsel in the Hunter Biden investigation. It comes as plea deal talks involving tax and gun charges in the case Weiss had already been probing hit an impasse.

The appointment of a special counsel ensures that Trump will not stand alone as the only presidential

US suicides hit an all-time high last year

The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 49,500 people took their own lives last year in the U.S., the highest number ever, according to new government data posted Thursday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which posted the numbers, has not yet calculated a suicide rate for the year, but available data suggests suicides are more common in the U.S. than at any time since the dawn of World War II.

“There’s something wrong. The number should not be going up,” said Christina Wilbur, a 45-yearold Florida woman whose son shot himself to death last year.

“My son should not have died,” she said. “I know it’s complicated, I really do. But we have to be able to do something. Something that we’re not doing. Because whatever we’re doing right now is not helping.”

Experts caution that suicide is complicated, and that recent increases might be driven by a range of factors, including higher rates of depression and limited availability of mental health services.

But a main driver is the growing availability of guns, said Jill Harkavy-Friedman, senior vice president of research at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Suicide attempts involving guns end in death far more often than

those with other means, and gun sales have boomed — placing firearms in more and more homes.

A recent Johns Hopkins University analysis used preliminary 2022 data to calculate that the nation’s overall gun suicide rate rose last year to an all-time high. For the first time, the gun suicide rate among Black teens surpassed the rate among white teens, the researchers found.

“I don’t know if you can talk about suicide without talking about firearms,” Harkavy-Friedman said.

U.S. suicides steadily rose from the early 2000s until 2018, when the national rate hit its highest level since 1941. That year saw about 48,300 suicide deaths — or 14.2 for every 100,000 Americans.

The rate fell slightly in 2019. It dropped again in 2020, during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some experts tied that to a phenomenon seen in the early stages of wars and natural disasters, when people pull together and support each other.

But in 2021, suicides rose 4%.

Last year, according to the new data, the number jumped by more than 1,000, to 49,449 — about a 3% increase vs. the year before. The provisional data comes from U.S. death certificates and is considered almost complete, but it may change slightly as death information is reviewed in the months ahead.

The largest increases were seen in older adults. Deaths rose nearly 7% in people ages 45 to 64, and more than 8% in people 65 and older. White men, in particular, have very high rates, the CDC said.

Many middle-aged and elderly people experience problems like losing a job or losing a spouse, and it’s important to reduce stigma and other obstacles to them getting assistance, said Dr. Debra Houry, the CDC’s chief medical officer.

Suicides in adults ages 25 to 44 grew about 1%. The new data indicates that suicide became the second leading cause of death in that age group in 2022, up from No. 4 in 2021.

Despite the grim statistics, some say there is reason for optimism. A national crisis line launched a year ago, meaning anyone in the U.S. can dial 988 to reach mental health specialists.

The CDC is expanding a suicide program to fund more prevention work in different communities. And there’s growing awareness of the issue and that it’s OK to ask for help,

candidate grappling with the fallout of a serious criminal investigation in the midst of the 2024 campaign season.

Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, has already obtained thousands of pages of financial records from various members of the Biden family through subpoenas to the Treasury Department and various financial institutions as part of a congressional probe. He released a statement Friday accusing Garland of “trying to stonewall congressional oversight.” Comer vowed “to follow the Biden family’s money trail.”

Back in New Hampshire, Buckley acknowledged that voters are not excited about Biden’s reelection.

“But they’re really not excited about Trump,” he said. “There’s a seriousness around this election. People can say they’re not excited (about Biden). They can say, ‘Oh, he shouldn’t run again.’ But the reality is that he’s the only alternative to Trump.”

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how closely key voters are paying attention.

A Marquette Law School Poll conducted last month found that about three-quarters of Americans had heard about Hunter Biden’s agreement to plead guilty to misdemeanor charges of tax evasion and a gun charge. Republicans were slightly more likely than Democrats to say they have heard “a lot” about the topic, with independents being much less likely to be paying attention.

health officials say.

There was a more than 8% drop in suicides in people ages 10 to 24 in 2022. That may be due to increased attention to youth mental health issues and a push for schools and others to focus on the problem, CDC officials said.

But even the smaller number masks tragedy for families.

Christina Wilbur lost her 21-yearold son, Cale, on June 16 last year. He died in her home in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.

Cale Wilbur had lost two friends and an uncle to suicide and had been dealing with depression. On that horrible morning, he and his mother were having an argument. She had confronted him about his drug use, his mother said. She left his bedroom and when she returned he had a gun.

“I was begging him not too, and to calm down,” she said. “It looked like he relaxed for a second, but then he killed himself.”

She describes her life since as black hole of emptiness and sorrow, and had found it hard to talk to friends or even family about Cale.

“There’s just this huge 6-foot-2 hole, everywhere,” she said. “Everything reminds me of what’s missing.”

It’s hard to find professionals to help, and those that are around can be expensive, she said. She turned to support groups, including an organization called Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors that operates a 24/7 online forum.

“There’s nothing like being with people who get it,” she said.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden speaks during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., April 29, 2023.

AP PHOTO

In this Nov. 20, 2015 file photo, a man walks along a trail during sunset near Manhattan, Kan.

Randolph record

Last week, a search warrant was issued as part of a joint investigation into a home in Trinity. On August 9, law enforcement officers from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Vice Unit and Criminal Interdiction Team, Asheboro Police Department’s Vice Unit, and the Department of Home Land Security’s Investigation division arrested Robert Gurung at a residence located at 6503 Bellawood Drive. According to a press release, roughly 28,4000 fentanyl pills were discovered in the home. Gurung was given a $1 million dollar bond and charged with felony trafficking in heroin, felony possession with intent to manufacture/sell/ deliver schedule II, and felony maintaining vehicle/dwelling/ place for controlled substances.

NC fentanyl victim families to hold awareness rally in downtown Raleigh

In the last nine years, over 13,671 North Carolina residents have been killed by fentanyl, which is enough people to fill the Raleigh Convention Center. The current rate for deaths by fentanyl in the state is roughly eight citizens a day, and these figures include people of all ages. To bring attention to this drug epidemic, the families from the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC and Forgotten Victims of North Carolina will be holding a rally at the Capitol Building in downtown Raleigh. This event will take place on August 20, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., regardless of the weather that day. The goal of the rally is to encourage the state senate to pass Bill 189, increase the funding of the NC DHHS, ensure all drug-related deaths are thoroughly investigated as potential homicides and crime scenes, and be recognized as “crime victims” by the NC Justice System and NC. Law Enforcement. For more information about this event, please contact Barb Walsh, the executive director of the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC, at: barb@fenvic.org.

Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — The new high school building for Uwharrie Charter Academy opens next week.

The new facility will house the high school and career academy. A ribbon cutting was held last Thursday, with an appearance by Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who’s running for governor in 2024.

Classes begin Monday, and students will be welcomed to the new facility. Staff members have spent the past couple of weeks on-site preparing for the opening.

It hasn’t gone quite as smoothly for UCA’s elementary school facilities. UCA superintendent Sharron Castelli announced an adjustment to the school calendar for early grades.

“We will have our first grade learning cottage ready for our staff and students,” Castelli wrote. “With that said, the kin-

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

new high school. Superintendent Sharon Castelli, front right, and other school personnel take part in the ceremony as Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, back center, looks on.

sources will be available. Classes on campus will begin with staggered entry the week of Aug. 28.

Board of Commissioners approves strategic funding for various projects

requests from the Sheriff’s Office.

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Board of Commissioners met Monday, August 14, with various budgetary and funding matters on the agenda.

The board was first presented with an updated strategic planning funding request.

“The county completed its most recent strategic planning process in 2016, and it involved citizens and communities from all over Randolph County,” said County Manager Hal Johnson. “It focused on the role of county government – and local governments also – which is the protection of the public health, the public safety and the public well-being. In 2017, the board of county commission-

ers made the decision to devote special funds that we received as a result of our original landfill from Waste Management to projects around the county that are helping to protect the public health, safety and well-being of Randolph County’s community.”

The board approved funding for Lydia’s Place Shelter for Women & Families in the amount of $55,494, Our Daily Bread Kitchen, Inc. in the amount of $25,000, Asheboro Shelter of Hope in the amount of $30,000, RhinoLeap Productions in the amount of $20,000, McCrary Ballpark in the amount of $500,000 and the 100 Man Project in the amount of $54,842.

“Today, almost 50 different agencies and organizations throughout Randolph County from Archdale to Trinity to Liberty to Seagrove and Asheboro and other areas of our county have been impacted in one way or another by these funds,” Johnson said. “Almost $4 million since 2017 has been allocated.”

The board also approved two

The first was the purchase of two 2023 Chevy PPV 4x4 Silverados through the NCSA Procurement Program for $93,498, and the second to utilize $348,775 in law enforcement restricted funds, otherwise known as asset forfeiture, to purchase “Special Emergency Response Team” equipment and motorcycles/equipment.

The board then approved the funding of additional staff positions regarding the projected expansion of Medicaid.

“We expect to have about 12,000-14,000 newly eligible citizens in Randolph County who will be eligible for Medicaid expansion,” said Social Services Director Tracie Murphy. “With those new citizens that will be eligible, we are going to need additional workforce in order to support them.”

According to Murphy, a large percentage of the new eligibility can be attributed to new laws which have implemented a new

See COMMISSIONERS, page 2

8 5 2017752016

$1.00

A ribbon cutting was held last week in anticipation of the opening of Uwharrie Charter Academy’s

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

A new statue stands in front of the high school building during the Uwharrie Charter Academy ribbon cutting ceremony last Thursday in Asheboro.

New staff positions at Social Services approved in preparation for Medicaid expansion

“Join the conversation”

Former Klaussner Furniture workers react to shutdown

Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — A lawsuit has been filed against Klaussner Furniture after the Asheboro-based company abruptly ceased operations last week.

Former employees of the manufacturing company allege that Klaussner Furniture didn’t provide proper notice of the shutdown.

Information in the notification from Klaussner Furniture that was listed as part of the Worker

COMMISSIONERS from page 1

standard for the poverty level.

“In order for us to provide services for this additional population, it’s going to take 22 new staff positions for us,” Murphy said. “Those 22 new staff positions would cost a total of $1.1 million. The cost to the county based on 75% federal reimbursement for the majority of those positions would be $219,000.”

The board also approved the Wooten Company’s bid for the design of a water line from the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority.

“When we did our master water sewer plan last year, one of the projects that was identified by the Wooten Company was to take water from the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority to Asheboro City,” said County Engineer Paxton Arthurs.

Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act shows that 884 jobs were to be lost.

The WARN Act requires employers to provide 60 days’ notice. The shortened time frame on the notice came from what appeared to be unforeseen business issues.

The company, which had been operating since 1963, announced Aug. 7 that it was shutting down operations at all its facilities.

Assistance for out-of-job workers is available through NC

The cost of the project will be $776,200 for design, bidding and construction administration.

The board then approved the construction bid for the Balfour Human Services Building Matters.

“On July 18, we had the bid opening and had good results,” Athurs said. “Six contractors showed up and submitted a bid. The low bid went to Garanco, Inc. Their base bid and three alternates came to $1,629,300. Based on the cost estimate that was initially presented, that was $2.5 million. So we’re approximately $900,000 below that cost estimate.”

According to Arthurs, the updated budget, including design fees, furniture, technology, miscellaneous improvements and the construction bid, put the total project cost at $2,305,800.

Finally, the board approved

Works. A hiring event was slated for earlier this week at Randolph Community College in Asheboro.

“We are hosting a series of career fairs to provide next steps to former employees of Klaussner Furniture,” according to information from NC Works. “All events are open to the public.”

Additional career and resource fairs are scheduled for Aug. 22 at RCC’s Archdale campus and Aug. 29 at RCC in Asheboro. Those are both scheduled from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

the endorsed project for the Community Based Gold LEAF Grants Initiative.

“Randolph County was awarded funding through this initiative in 2016 with its very successful Pathways to Prosperity program,” said assistant county manager William Johnson. “This year, Golden LEAF identified various strategic priorities for funding. These included job creation and economic development, workforce preparedness and increasing the value of North Carolina’s agricultural industry.”

The Golden LEAF-endorsed project that the county will be moving forward with is a $1.5 million request for construction costs associated with the Food, Farm and Family Agricultural Center.

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners will next meet September 4.

The Randolph Guide is a quick look at what’s going on in Randolph County.

August 17

Communities in Schools Fundraiser 6pm – 8pm

Come out to the Lazy-E Event Center in Archdale for dinner, drinks and a short program about schools in Randolph County!

Financial Open House

10am - 11am & 4pm5pm Truliant Federal Credit Union will be hosting a Financial Open House this Thursday at the Asheboro Chamber of Commerce, located at 137 S. Fayetteville Street. Their goal is to further assist employees impacted by the Klaussner closing and answer any financail questions for those impacted.

DEATH NOTICES

♦ George Danny Smith, age 81 of Asheboro, died Monday, August 7, 2023, at Alpine Health and Rehabilitation in Asheboro.

WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY 336-629-7588

Nominations open for upcoming state fair’s ‘Farm Family of the Day’

By A.P. Dillonl North State Journal

RALEIGH — While the 2023 N.C. State Fair is still a couple of months away, competition applications and event planning are already in motion.

The fair officials have opened up nominations to honor 11 farm families to be recognized as the Tractor Supply Company’s “Farm Family of the Day.” This is the third year Tractor Supply Company has sponsored the program to celebrate farm families behind the state’s “$103.2 billion agriculture and agribusiness industry.”

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year,” Ag-

riculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a press release.

“Thanks to Tractor Supply Company, we can help tell the story of our farmers because they are the individuals out there every day working to grow the food, fiber and fuel that we need to survive.”

Nominations and applications for Farm Family of the Day will be open through Sept. 15. Families will be Applications can be found at ncstatefair.org/2023/ Attractions/FarmFamilyOfTheDay.htm.

Families receiving the award will get an N.C. State Fair gift basket containing fair tickets, ride passes and “additional swag” provided by Tractor Supply Company and the N.C. State Fair.

This year’s fair runs from Oct. 12-22 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. More information on the upcoming fair, competitions and events can be found at ncstatefair.org.

August 18

Friday Night Bluegrass –Caroline Owens

7pm

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year.”

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler

Come out to the historic Sunset Theatre this Friday to hear live bluegrass by Carolina Owens! Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. For more information, please visit www.SunsetTheatre. org.

August 19

Asheboro Farmers Market

7am – 1pm

Come out to the Asheboro Downtown Farmers Market, located at 134 S. Church Street. This event is free and open to the public!

Lantern Rescue 5K Run

♦ Brooks, Raymond (M, 46), Arrested on charge of Unauthorized use of Motor Vehicle, on 8/9, at 727 McDowell Rd.

♦ Gurung, Robert (M, 20), Arrested on charge of Trafficking Opium or Heroin, PWIMSD Schedule II CS, Maintain Place CS, on 8/9, at 6503 Bellawood Dr.

♦ Harris, Judah (M, 19), Arrested on charge of Carrying Concealed Gun, Felony Possession Marijuana, PWIMSD Marijuana, on 8/9, at Interstate 85; NB MM 112.

TUESDAY

♦ Hoskins, Brittany (F, 26), Arrested on charge of Breaking and or Entering, Larceny of a Firearm, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Firearm by Felon, Attempt Obtain Property Flase

Presentse, on 8/9, at 115 Brittain St.

♦ Hunt, Crystal (F, 43), Arrested on charge of Resisting Public Officer, Misuse of 911 System, Assailt Physical Injury Le/Prob/Par Officer, on 8/9, at 689 Branson Mill Rd.

♦ Luck. Latrevius (M, 25), Arrested on charge of Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, Flee/Elude Arrest w/ MV, AWDW Governmetn Official, Posess Marijuana Paraphernalia, on 8/10, at US HWY 64 W & Mack Rd.

♦ Mullins, Holly (F, 32), Arrested on charge of Carrying Concealed Gun, on 8/9, at 2554 Woodfield Dr.

♦ Smith, Willie (M, 44), Arrested on charge of Possession of Firearm by Felon, on 8/9, at US

HWY 311 & Old Glenola Rd.

♦ Turner, David (M, 41), Arrested on charge of Flee/Elude Arrest w/ MV, Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, on 8/9, at 724 Monroe Ave.

♦ Bentley, Debra (F, 64), Arrested on charge of Possess Meth, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, on 8/8, at 5675 Old Thomasville Rd.

♦ Blankenship, Dylan (M, 29), Arrested on charge of Assault Handicapped Person, on 8/8, at 811 New Century Dr.

♦ Honeycutt, Kasey (F, 35), Arrested on charge of Breaking or Entering, Second Degree Trespass, Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia, on 8/8, at 712 Mack Rd.

9am – 1pm

Lantern Rescue, an Asheboro-based nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking, will be holding a 5k run/ walk this Saturday at Bicentennial Park. The event will also include food trucks, live music, educational booths, and guest speakers.

August 20

Sunday Concert –Too Much Sylvia

7pm – 8:30pm

Come out to the Bicentennial Park this Sunday for live music by Too Much Sylvia! This show is free and open to the public. Food trucks will be on-site. Just bring a lawn chair!

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Protecting our veterans & honoring our fallen heroes

AS THE REPRESENTATIVE of the largest Army base in the world, making sure our community’s veterans, troops, and their families get the support they deserve is among my top priorities.

service members—including our own U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss—during Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans.

At the end of July, the House passed the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. This legislation will strengthen our commitment to our veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. This legislation is also providing nearly $800 million above President Biden’s budget request for military construction to improve our national security.

I was able to secure large wins for our community, including over $250 million in funding for critical infrastructure projects that will aid our region’s military personnel, $150 million for barracks, and $36 million for a desperately needed child care center at Fort Liberty, formerly Fort Bragg. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to increase funding for the Veteran Crisis Line by $10 million.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need. In March alone, the crisis line received more than 88,000 calls, texts, and chats—the highest number we’ve ever had in one month. The additional funding in my amendment will allow the VA to better serve veterans, and their families, by ensuring the Veterans Crisis Line has the capacity to respond to every veteran in need.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-2738255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www. VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans. Ensuring our military families and veterans have the resources they deserve are the most important duties we have in Congress, and we must continue to do everything we can to improve their quality of life.

As we support our nation’s veterans, we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice. August 15th marks the two year anniversary of when our nation lost 13 brave U.S.

The Barack Obama cover-up

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama.

LAST WEEK, Tablet released a fascinating conversation with historian David Garrow, author of a massive unauthorized biography of former President Barack Obama in his early years titled “Rising Stars.” By all rights, the book should have been a massive hit upon its release in 2017. Instead, it underperformed. The revelations contained therein never hit the mainstream. And that simple fact, in and of itself, demonstrates a simple reality of the modern political era: The entire press apparatus has been dedicated, since at least 2008, to the proposition that Obama had to be protected from all possible damage.

Garrow’s book carried multiple bombshells for Obama.

Obama’s first autobiography — the egotist has already written several — “Dreams From My Father” told a story about how he broke up from a white girlfriend in his Chicago years over her failure to understand his desire for racial solidarity with black America. Actually, as Garrow’s book relates, the couple broke up because Obama refused to disown black antisemitism. Furthermore, as the book uncovers, Obama wrote letters to a girlfriend in which he “repeatedly fantasizes about making love to men.”

These are incredible allegations, to say the least. They were reported in the book. But as David Samuels of Tablet observes, the media were shockingly remiss in covering any of these stories: “’Rising Star’ highlights a remarkable lack of curiosity on the part of mainstream reporters and institutions about a man who almost instantaneously was treated less like a politician and more like the idol of an inter-elite cult.”

That was true in 2008, when the media steadfastly refused to take seriously reports about Obama’s attendance at an openly racist and antisemitic church for two decades. And it’s true in 2023, when the media still refuse to cover the fact that a huge number of President Joe Biden’s closest aides are

These brave men and women lost in Kabul put their lives on the line to save our fellow citizens and allies in harm’s way, and will forever be known as heroes. I continue to pray for the family of Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss, as well as the Gold Star families of each of these heroes, whose legacy will never be forgotten.

I recently met with family members of these heroes, including Staff Sergeant Knauss’ mother. Their pain and loss has been compounded by the misinformation and a lack of transparency by President Biden and his administration. These family members deserve to know all the facts and the truth about the mistakes made that put their loved ones in harm’s way. I am working with Committee on Foreign Affairs Chairman Mike McCaul, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers and others to ensure we get the answers they are seeking. We will hold this administration accountable.

Whether it’s protecting our veterans, shoring up our national security, securing the border, growing our economy, or holding our government agencies accountable, I continue to fight for what matters to you most. I’m proud to be standing up for you.

My goal is to continue to provide you with high quality constituent services and be accessible to hear your needs, thoughts, and concerns on key issues facing our community and nation. My dedicated staff in our Southern Pines and Fayetteville district offices are here to serve you.

Working with my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance common sense solutions that improve your quality of life is part of my commitment to you as your Congressman. Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

Obama’s closest political allies. Obama resides in Washington, D.C.; all of the people who made policy for him now make policy for Biden. And yet nobody talks about the Obama influence in the current White House.

All of this is part of a broader pact on the part of every major apparatus in American life to mirror Obama’s perceptions of the world. In Obama’s own mind, he was a world-historical figure; that’s why, in 2010, when he experienced a rather predictable shellacking in a midterm election, he responded by suggesting that his opposition was actually motivated by vicious racism and brutal bigotry. The media mirrored that perspective; so did entertainment; so did tech companies. The immaculate, solid wall of support for Obama’s intersectional coalition is intimately connected to direct allegiance from the movers and shakers toward the Obama persona.

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama. Garrow concludes about Obama: “He has no interest in building the Democratic Party as an institution. I think that’s obvious. And I don’t think he had any truly deep, meaningful policy commitments other than the need to feel and to be perceived as victorious, as triumphant.” But that victory — that triumph — came at the expense of the American people, who were promised a racial conciliator and a man of honor by a media invested in that lie. When the truth materialized and our institutions continued to perpetuate the lie, our institutions collapsed. We live in the era of Barack Obama still.

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

SIDELINE REPORT

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Chadwell: Death of Liberty freshman was not football-related

Lynchburg, Virginia

First-year Liberty coach

Jamey Chadwell says the death of a freshman football player was not football-related. Chadwell says the team learned of the passing of 19-year-old Tajh Boyd of Chesapeake, Virginia, on Saturday. He declined to give further details about Boyd’s death, saying he wanted to respect the privacy of the player’s family. Chadwell says the team held a service for Boyd on Sunday, and that rain fell following the service. After that, he said, a rainbow appeared over the stadium.

GOLF

Auburn grad student Schofill wins U.S.

Women’s Amateur

Los Angeles

Megan Schofill won the U.S. Women’s Amateur on Sunday at Bel-Air Country Club, beating Latanna Stone 4 and 3 in the 36hole final. The 22-year-old Schofill, from Monticello, Florida, is a graduate student entering her fifth season at Auburn. The 21-year-old Stone, from Riverview, Florida, is entering her fifth year at LSU. After Stone won the par-4 24th with a birdie, Schofill took the par-4 25th and par-5 26th with birdies for a 4-up advantage. They halved the next five holes with pars, Stone won the par-5 32nd and the match ended on the par-4 33rd when Stone’s 5-foot par putt lipped out.

NFL Falcons cut former starting LB Walker

Flowery Branch, Ga.

The Atlanta Falcons waived 2022 starting linebacker Mykal Walker on Sunday, two days after he started and had four tackles in the Falcons’ 19-3 preseason win at Miami. Falcons coach Arthur Smith did not start his firstteam players against the Dolphins. On Sunday, the team signed linebacker Frank Ginda, the 2023 USFL defensive player of the year. The Falcons did not announce an injury to Walker in Friday night’s game, but the 2020 fourth-round draft pick apparently was unavailable for the remainder of training camp. Walker had 107 tackles with two interceptions and one sack in 16 games, including 12 starts, in 2022.

BASKETBALL

Brunson helps U.S. beat Spain in World Cup tuneup

Malaga, Spain

The U.S. World Cup basketball team got its first big test of the summer Sunday, and a perfect shooting night from Jalen Brunson helped ensure the Americans passed. Brunson was 9 for 9 from the field on the way to a team-best 21 points and the U.S. pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat Spain 98-88 in a pre-World Cup exhibition between tournament favorites. Spain is the No. 1-ranked team in the world according to FIBA; the U.S. is No. 2.

Cavaliers player wounded in deadly attack returns for 2023 season

The Associated Press CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia running back Mike Hollins knows he will never be the same and admits that the position of football on his priorities list “has shrunk.” He still can’t wait to run onto the field with his Cavaliers brothers for their opener this season.

“I can only imagine the emotions that’ll be flowing through my body.

I just — I literally can’t. I have no words because the spring game hit me like a sack of rocks, and I didn’t expect it at all, so I can only imagine,” he said. “I’m ready, though. I’m ready for it.”

Hollins, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of two survivors of a shooting last November that left three teammates dead. He was shot in the back, needed several surgeries and spent a week in the hospi-

tal before beginning a long rehabilitation.

The shootings, which also left student Marlee Morgan injured, rocked the team and the community, and it caused the Cavaliers to cancel their final two games.

Hollins uplifted his teammates when he returned for spring practices four months later even though he wasn’t cleared for full contact yet. That came about midway through the 15 sessions, and he scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the spring game.

He celebrated the touchdown by placing the ball on the name of D’Sean Perry, painted in the end zone along with those of Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler, those killed on a school bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C. A former Virginia player, Christopher Jones Jr., is accused of the shootings and awaiting trial.

Throughout his recovery, which he admits is more complete physically than mentally, Hollins “has been a superhero,” roommate and fellow running back Perris Jones said. “Experiencing what he experienced and carrying himself with as much grace and perseverance as he does is inspirational to see day in and day out. His spirit is truly unbroken, and he embodies that every day.”

Hollins knows no one would have questioned him, or any of last year’s team, had they decided not to play again or to move to another school. He also knows to keep things in perspective as they play to honor their fallen teammates.

“Us being here and being able to play again and touch the field and just come together as a team is doing that legacy justice in itself. We don’t have to go out and try to ... go undefeated or win a champion-

Nowitzki, Gasol, Parker give international flavor to Basketball HOF enshrinement

The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Fans waved a German flag and chanted Dirk Nowitzki’s name when the former Dallas Mavericks big man walked the red carpet into Symphony Hall on Saturday night for the Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony.

Tony Parker’s fans whooped it up when he took the stage to lead off the proceedings. “There are a lot of French people in town. Sorry,” the San Antonio Spurs point guard said.

Spain was well-represented, too, with Pau Gasol shouting out his national team — “mi familia” — before joining what may be the greatest international class of inductees in the Springfield shrine’s history.

“I want to give a special mention to those first Europeans, who came here, across the ocean, who took a chance,” said Gasol, who fell in love with the sport when the 1992 Olympics were held in his hometown, Barcelona. “I was 12. It changed my life. The Dream Team showed us how basketball could be played.”

Like Gasol, Parker was won over by the 1992 Summer Olympics, when the Hall of Famer-laden Americans drubbed the French national by 50 points. But when it came time to play in the European

championships, Gasol and Spain were often in the way.

“Sometimes I wish Pau Gasol was not born,” Parker quipped.

The Class of 2023 brought a distinctly international flavor to the basketball hall.

Nowitzki was the first European-born player to win the NBA MVP award, in 2007. Parker’s NBA Finals MVP award that year was the first for a European. In 2002, Gasol was the NBA’s first in-

ternational rookie of the year. The Spurs were well represented, too, led by longtime coach and five-time NBA champion Gregg Popovich, and Parker, the point guard on four of those title-winning teams. Becky Hammon, who after a career in the WNBA joined the Spurs as the first woman to serve as a full-time NBA assistant coach, was also honored. Gasol played his last two healthy seasons with the Spurs.

ship,” he said.

That desire to honor their teammates has been cited by several players that decided to return, including defensive lineman Chico Bennett and Perris Jones.

“It’s a shame it has to happen in this way,” Bennett said, “but now that we’re given a platform, we’re going to make the most of it. I look forward to being able to do that and honoring them through our play and doing that to the best of our ability.”

When Hollins suits up for Virginia’s game against Tennessee in Nashville on Sept. 2, he said, he will be “carrying something with me.”

“It’ll always weigh on you,” he said. “There will never be a day where you won’t remember it or feel something missing from your heart when thinking about it.” Getting back on the field, though, sure might help.

“Coach Pop — it starts with him,” Parker said.

In her speech, Hammond broke down when thanking Popovich.

“I know you weren’t trying to be courageous when you hired me,” she said. “You changed the trajectory of my life, and so many other girls, and young women.”

Undrafted by the WNBA, Hammon went on to be a six-time AllStar before joining Popovich in San Antonio. She coached the Aces to a WNBA championship last season.

“The amount of times I hear ‘no’ or had a door shut was the amount of times I was going to go through a chimney or bust through a window to find a way,” Hammon said. “I wouldn’t change the hard parts, because the hard parts were necessary to build the courage for whatever comes next.”

Others enshrined include Dwyane Wade — a key piece of three NBA championship teams in Miami — and former NC State coach Jim Valvano, who led the Wolfpack to the 1983 NCAA title and went on to be a broadcaster and advocate for cancer research. Valvano was inducted posthumously.

Rounding out the class were the silver medal-winning 1976 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team; former Purdue coach Gene Keady, a seven-time Big Ten coach of the year; former Texas A&M women’s coach Gary Blair, who took two teams to the Final Four; longtime coach at Amherst and twotime Division III national champion David Hixon; and Gene Bess — who won 1,300 games as a junior college coach at Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

AP PHOTO

Virginia running back Mike Hollins, pictured last season against UNC, was wounded in a shooting attack last November that left three of his teammates dead.

AP PHOTO Gregg Popovich speaks during his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as presenters David Robinson, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, from left, listen Saturday in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Kearns Trotter

Post 45 cherishes season’s successes, improvements

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Hunter Atkins built a reputation largely as a hitter during high school for Randleman’s baseball team.

But that’s far from his only attribute, something that was on display at times during the American Legion season for Randolph County Post 45.

In what became the season finale, Atkins threw six innings of relief against eventual regional champion Florence (S.C.) Post 1. It came while he labored with calf cramping on the mound shortly after dealing with grip problems at the plate with a slippery, sweaty bat.

His jersey was soaked with perspiration after the game.

Perhaps it that was the visual that most defined the Post 45 team in manager Ronnie Pugh’s mind.

“That’s what makes it fun out here, when you’ve got grinders,”

Pugh said.

While, for the second year in a row, Randolph County came up one game short of reaching the final day of the Southeast Regional at McCrary Park, there were numerous memorable moments for Post 45.

The team finished with a 25-8 record. There was a 13-game winning streak during the regular season.

“Obviously, we’ve had a successful season,” Pugh said.

There were tricky components to the season.

Player availability was wavering as some players had summer college classes, particularly affecting their attendance for weeknight games. Pugh said a puzzling stretch when cases of strep throat – seemingly one at a time – created havoc with the roster.

Pugh said he was particularly proud of improvements made by several players.

“You can see it,” Pugh said. “We are always proud of that as coach-

es.”

Atkins, who was set to report to UNC Greensboro a few days after the regional, was one of several Post 45 newcomers who made tremendous impacts.

Pitcher Austin Lemons, another Randleman product, second baseman Pierce Leonard, who played for Eastern Randolph, and outfielder Carter Brown and catcher Grat Dalton, who missed the regional because of a death in the family, arrived to play for the team fresh off a Class 1-A state championship with Uwharrie Charter Academy.

Brown said playing an American Legion season was beneficial.

“I like it; a lot of fun,” he said. “My confidence at the plate, I feel it has improved.”

Atkins and Leonard both batted .455 in the regional. Third baseman/outfielder Tyler Parks checked in at .400.

“First and only year,” Atkins said of the American Legion experience. “It was unbelievable.”

Roberts walks away after historic UCA career on mats

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Grayson Roberts tends to downplay some of his accomplishments from high school wrestling.

But the recent Uwharrie Charter Academy graduate doesn’t dismiss the impact the sport had on his life.

“I love the sport. It definitely changed my life,” Roberts said. “Speaking of my younger self, I was a little bit of a wild child.”

Roberts is the only four-time state place finisher in UCA history. He placed third in Class 1-A as both a freshman and sophomore, won a state title as a junior, and was a runner-up as a senior.

He credits Eagles coach Chris Waddell for pledging to his parents that there would be improved behavior. This came prior to his junior year at UCA.

“I was a little bit of a troublemaker,” Roberts said. “My parents were going to send me to military school. They spoke to Coach Waddell. I got it straightened out.”

And the result as it relates to wrestling?

“Coach Waddell loves us all,”

Roberts said. “If your coach vouches for you, that says something. That’s what really motivated me going into my junior year.”

By the end of his high school career, Roberts owned a 157-8 record with 90 pins. He was a threetime regional champion.

Waddell had been around Roberts since the youngster was a fifth grader and serving as a manager for a newly formed middle school program. He showed up a few years later prepared to jump right into a role on the varsity team.

“That’s probably what gave him a leg up,” Waddell said. “He had a lot of time on the mat.”

Yet it was a process in many ways.

“Grayson needed a lot of correction along the way,” Waddell said.

“He had a lot of growing up to do. He used to have a temper program. To me, he has grown up a lot.”

Yet Roberts was hard on himself, never convinced that he had reached his potential.

“I’m very happy and grateful to compete the way I did all four years,” he said. “I’m never satisfied. Throughout my whole career, I feel I was somewhat successful.

I say that because you can always do better. I saw stuff I could improve on even after I would win. That fire shows up when you lose.”

Roberts was an anchor in the middle of the UCA lineup on the 2023 Class 1-A dual team state champions. He said he felt his strength was from the top position earlier in his career, but he enjoyed going from the neutral position and racking up takedowns as a senior.

“That’s when you fall in love with the sport again,” he said.

After winning his individual state title in 2022, Roberts was right back on the mats grinding to get better. He said that was the only approach that would work for him. He placed second in the state at 170 pounds as a senior.

He also has held a part-time job at Dixie Express in Asheboro, appreciative that the store management allowed him to work around his wrestling activities.

This week, he heads to begin life as a college student at UNC Asheville. There’s no wrestling team there.

“That was probably the hardest decision I had to make,” Roberts said. “I’m done wrestling.”

Southwestern Randolph, basketball / tennis

Kearns Trotter made his mark on the courts for Southwestern Randolph, both in basketball and tennis.

He wrapped up his career with the Cougars on a couple of teams with winning records. Those squads were Piedmont Athletic Conference regular-season runners-up.

Trotter, a guard, made regular contributions for the boys’ basketball team. Among those was 11 points in a home upset of eventual Class 1-A state finalist Eastern Randolph.

Trotter wasn’t done after the winter. In boys’ tennis, he was named to the All-PAC team in each of the past two seasons.

*During the summer, we recognize seniors from the past school year.

Kidd, partner play well in senior four-ball

Randolph Record

PINEHURST – Steve Kidd of Liberty and Linley Tate of Greensboro combined to tie for 12th place in the North Carolina Senior Four-Ball Championship last week at Pinewild Country Club.

The winning team was Gastonia’s Larry Cloninger and Belmont’s Mark Hodges at 17-under-par 199.

The Kidd/Tate combo checked in at 9-under.

Brian Skeen of Trinity and Craig Stroup of Thomasville tied for 21st place at 5-under. There were 79 teams entered in the Carolinas Golf Association event.

** Asheboro’s Sam Davidson didn’t make it to the round of 16 in the North Carolina Amateur Match Play, which used a different format this year. He went 1-2 in the group play portion of the tournament last month at Cedarwood Country Club in Charlotte and didn’t advance to the championship bracket.

Davidson, a Guilford College golfer, dropped a 3 and 2 decision to Greensboro’s Jack Marcotte in the first match. Davidson then defeated Jack Fitzgerald of Wilmington by 2 and 1 before falling 2 and 1 to Ryan Marci of

Wake Forest.

Garrett Risner of Holly Springs was the champion. Risner, an Elon University golfer, topped Cyrus Stewart of Raleigh by 1-up in the final.

Pineville team takes championship in ONSL

RAMSEUR – The Pineville Porcupines became champions of the Old North State League, a summer collegiate baseball circuit.

The Porcupines finished on an 11-game winning streak. They defeated the Clayton Clovers in the best-of-3 championship series late last month.

The league is based out of Ramseur, though there’s no longer a team in Randolph County.

Fall sports clicks in gear for NCHSAA schools

Competition has started this week in the fall season for teams in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. While football games come at the end of the week, other sports could begin as early as Monday. The fall sports are boys’ and girls’ cross country, girls’ golf, girls’ tennis, volleyball and boys’ soccer.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL Kearns Trotter of Southwestern Randolph puts up a shot during his senior season in a home game against Trinity.

RANDOLPH RECORD FILE PHOTO

Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Grayson Roberts reacts after winning a Class 1-A individual state title at 160 pounds in February 2022 to cap his junior season.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Randolph County manager Ronnie Pugh, center, makes a mound visit in extra innings in the Southeast Regional to check on pitcher Hunter Atkins, right. Catcher Caleb Dunn looks on.

AREA SPORTS BRIEFS

New eras, altered schedules greet teams

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

THE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL season starts Friday night.

Here are a few items of note involving Randolph County teams:

** Asheboro, Providence Grove and Trinity play under first-year coaches.

Asheboro’s Calvin Brown came from Providence Grove to take the coaching role. Asheboro’s non-conference slate has been slightly rearranged, though four of the five non-conference opponents are from within Randolph County. The change from the past couple of years comes because Wheatmore

dropped off the schedule and was replaced by Albemarle.

That came at Wheatmore’s request, and it was a development prior to Asheboro’s coaching change. Asheboro’s only 2022 victory came against Wheatmore.

** Providence Grove and Trinity start these new eras on the road.

David Hayes is the first-year coach at Providence Grove, where the past two seasons were particularly strong.

Bear Bradley has taken over at Trinity after leaving a similar position at Southern Guilford.

** Randleman begins the season at home against Thomasville.

Norwood eyes big impact in final season for Wildcats

North Carolina football commit excels as Eastern Randolph lineman

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

RAMSEUR — Jani Norwood’s goal is to take care of business on the football field for Eastern Randolph in the coming months.

The focus became clear after he made a college commitment in the spring.

The offensive lineman chose North Carolina as his college destination.

“I wanted to do it before the start of my senior season,” Norwood said.

“UNC felt like the most home to me.”

Eastern Randolph, the two-time defending Piedmont Athletic Conference champion, opens the season Friday night with a non-conference game against visiting Eastern Alamance, which handed the Wildcats a loss last year.

Coach Burton Cates of the Wildcats said he’s glad that Norwood reached a conclusion so early in the recruiting process.

“He had many offers on the table,” Cates said. “I think you want his senior year to be special.”

Cates, who has more than 350 high school coaching victories, said Norwood is the best offensive lineman he has coached. Norwood said he could play guard or center in college based on discussions he had with North Carolina’s coaching staff. Either way, he liked the general tone of the dialogue.

“Every time I’ve been there, it

was a great experience,” he said. “It felt like family. It felt like home.”

The Wildcats have options on how they use Norwood this year.

He’s one of four returning starting offensive linemen.

He was Eastern Randolph’s right tackle in 2022 because then-senior quarterback Stratton Barwick is a left-hander. He could move to left tackle for his senior season, Cates said.

Plus, he played on the defensive line at tackle during the state playoffs.

Norwood, who spent a brief time on the baseball team this spring, competed in track and field in the shot put and discus. His toss of 37 feet, 8¾ inches was second in the shot put in the spring’s Randolph County championships.

Yet his role on the Class 1-A state runner-up boys’ basketball team evolved into a key contributor off the bench. That sure helped in his conditioning under coach Johnny Thomas.

“He runs us a lot,” Norwood said. “It definitely helped me keep in shape. I definitely lost a couple of pounds playing basketball.”

Cates said Norwood’s improvement in basketball demonstrated the athleticism of the player who has weighed as much as 310 pounds. The football coach said, at one time, Norwood could be on the low blocks all night and wouldn’t make a shot.

“He’s big, and he can dunk a basketball,” Cates said. “That’s how much he has improved.”

This will be the first meeting between the teams since Randleman won in 2016.

The series is tied at 3-3.

This is the first time since 2010 that the Tigers open a season against an opponent from outside Randolph County.

** Southwestern Randolph began last season 2-0, but neither of those opponents (Jordan-Matthews and South Stanly) are on the Cougars’ schedule this year. Instead, Southwestern Randolph opens with road games against Western Guilford and North Moore before an open week and then a home opener Sept. 8 vs. McMichael. The Cougars haven’t played

Western Guilford, which was winless last year, since 2016 and will take on North Moore for the first time since 2010.

** The most compelling opening-night clash perhaps comes in Ramseur, where Eastern Randolph will face visiting Eastern Alamance.

These teams have split openers the past two years, each winning at home. These teams have combined for a 42-7 record the past two seasons and have held high seeds for the state playoffs.

** Wheatmore has won a total of seven games in the past three seasons. Six of those triumphs have come in road games.

PREP FOOTBALL — WEEK 1

Friday night’s games

Albemarle at Asheboro

Thomasville at Randleman

Eastern Alamance at Eastern Randolph

Providence Grove at East Davidson

Southwestern Randolph at Western Guilford

Trinity at Starmount

Wheatmore at West Davidson

First-year Asheboro coach Calvin Brown, shown here during a practice earlier this month, is encouraged by improvement from the Blue Comets.

Brown encouraged as

first season with Blue Comets nears

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Another phase of Asheboro football takes form, with the beginning of the season under first-year coach Calvin Brown.

There’s a new set of optimism for the Blue Comets, who’ve won a total of two games in the past three seasons. The season begins with Friday night’s home game against Albemarle.

“There’s a lot of excitement in Asheboro,” said Brown, who arrived after seven seasons as Providence Grove’s coach. “We’re not going to start winning games because (I) showed up. We’re not miracle workers.”

Brown brought along a familiar staff and hopes to see what he views as an athletic roster of players churn out victories.

“Things are going better than I expected,” he said. “We’ve gotten a

lot better from spring ball all the way until now.”

The Blue Comets will need to set the tone defensively, particularly early in the season, Brown said. It’s taking longer for the offense to develop much consistency.

Asheboro gave up 45.3 points per game last year.

“We’re very athletic,” Brown said. “I’m hoping, especially early on, we can use that speed defensively.”

The quarterback will be Logan Laughlin, a junior who transferred this summer from Randleman. He emerged ahead of Elijah Woodle.

“Very gifted, very talented,” Brown said of Laughlin, who was a backup with Randleman last year.

Brown said he likes the potential impact from receivers who’ve come up from the junior varsity. Senior running backs Kai Matthews, TJ Mark and Jaylon Moore should offer the core of the rushing attack.

Staff matters

The now-former Providence Grove staff members who’ve joined Brown are defensive coordinator Glen Hunt, who was also the Patriots’ baseball coach, offensive coordinator Grant Hardy, offensive line coach Jacob Parrish and defensive backs coach Jeremy Taylor.

“A big thing for a head football coach is coaching your assistant coaches to do your things, and that’s one thing I haven’t had to do,” Brown said. “(Asheboro was) committed to those guys so they could come as soon as they could be freed up. I wasn’t going anywhere without those guys.”

Also coming from Providence Grove is Wes Luther, who was the boys’ basketball coach and wasn’t on the football staff. He’ll coach tight ends.

Asheboro’s other assistant coaches are defensive line coach Jerry Spencer, who was at Eden Morehead the past two years and a former head coach at East Montgomery, and running backs coach Charlie Jones, whose retirement after being Bishop McGuinness’ head coach was shortlived. Nick Goard, who was on the Asheboro staff the past three years, was retained as an assistant coach working with the defense.

BOB SUTTON | RANDOLPH RECORD

Eastern Randolph’s Jani Norwood is set for his senior season.

SCOTT PELKEY | RANDOLPH RECORD

Samuel Wardell Heath, Sr.

February 14, 1937 — August 12, 2023

Samuel W. Heath Sr. of Asheboro passed away peacefully and surrounded by family in the early morning hours of August 12 after a brief illness. He was 86 years old.

Sam was a man of faith, a man of fellowship, and a man of family. Born in Grimesland, NC, on February 14, 1937, he lost both of his parents at a very young age and grew up in the care of his grandfather and grandmother. He was a standout basketball and baseball player at Grimesland High School, where he was voted as Most Athletic. He was a veteran of the US Air Force and the National Guard. He moved his family to Asheboro in 1977 when he was transferred to the Asheboro plant of Energizer Battery, where he worked until his retirement in 1997. He was a long time Mason and began his Masonic journey in the Grimesland Lodge. He was raised on September 2, 1975, and eventually became a Master Mason. After his move to Asheboro, he became a member of Lodge 699 where he remained a member in good standing.

Faith was a bedrock for Sam, and the home of that faith was First Evangelical and Reformed United Church of Christ in Asheboro. He was a member of the congregation for over 45 years, serving as head of the consistory and in other leadership roles. He was a mentor to many and sung in the choir for almost all of his years with the church. He fiercely advocated for the Backpack Pals program of Communities in Schools of Randolph County and the Christians United Outreach Center and reveled in greeting congregation members before and after every service.

Above all, family was the foundation for everything for Sam. His love for his wife Jane over their 61 years of marriage was boundless, and her partnership and support as he dealt with health issues over the years meant everything to him. The accomplishments of his three children and the lives they had built were a tremendous source of pride and happiness. His four grandchildren took that to a whole other level, and he was diligent in going to as many sporting and other events as he could, even as he dealt with chronic pain. He did not take for granted that he was able to see all of them grow up and turn in to delightful and skilled young men and women and who so appreciated the time they got to spend with their Papa.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandfather Samuel Clarence Heath and his grandmother Evelyn Heath, his brother James Heath, his half-sister Dorothy Smith, his uncle Elmo Heath, his aunt Annabelle Heath, several other beloved aunts and uncles, and many dear friends. He is survived by his precious wife, Jane, of the home; his son Sam Heath Jr. and his wife Kelly of Asheboro; his son Carter Heath, his wife Sonjia, and their daughters Maya and Ava of Winston-Salem; his daughter Kathy Harris, her husband Mike, and their sons Dax and Van of Greensboro; and several nephews, nieces, cousins, and special friends and neighbors.

John Daniel "JD" Currin

October 16, 1968 — August 9, 2023

John Daniel "JD" Currin, age 54, of Asheboro passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.

JD was born in Randolph County on October 16, 1968. He was employed as a Quality Technician with Thomas Built Buses for 25 years. JD was preceded in death by his father, Mickey Currin. JD was a people person, never met a stranger, and loved to pick and cut up with everyone. He loved to fish and was an avid UNC Carolina Tarheels fan. JD was a very active man and enjoyed playing golf, running, and playing tennis. He was very protective of his loved ones.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Angie Potts; fur babies, Haven, Harper, Hank, Toby, and Tia; sister, Sarah York and husband Tim; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Linda Potts; and niece and nephews, Jonathan, Timothy, Abney, and Lane.

Richard Guy Small

February 11, 1951 — August 12, 2023

Richard Guy Small, 72, passed away August 12, 2023 at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro. He was born February 11, 1951 to Guy Marcus Small and Joy Ruth (Briles) Small.

Richard graduated from Randleman High School, Class of 1969. Mr. Small was a veteran of the US Army and served during Vietnam. He wanted to join the Highway Patrol but was rejected for being too tall. He continued his education at NC State and became a truck driver, retiring after 30 years as a driver with UPS. Mr. Small enjoyed his time off and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also loved spending time outside as a beekeeper. His love of animals was evident with his two feline companions - Tiger and Callie, three ducks, and his late canine companion, Brutus. Special thanks to David Pike and Betsy for all the help they have given Richard’s family. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Helen Hackett Small of Climax; mother, Joy Ruth Briles Small of Level Cross; Sister-in-law, Sherrie Hackett of Randleman; Brother-in-law, Jerry Wolfe; Nieces, Shannon (Greg) Hamby, Janet (Rodney) White; Nephews, Chase Jackson, Junior Allred; Great-nieces/nephews; David Ellis III, Morgan Spencer, Kaylee (Reece) Daniel, Hudson Daniel, Rhett Daniel, Hunter (Allison) Hamby, Morgan Hamby, Wyatt White; Great-greatnephews, Carson Locklear, Carter Locklear, Chayden Locklear, Camden Locklear. He is preceded in death by his father, Guy Small.

Fay Faircloth

September 7, 1934 — August 8, 2023

On August 8 , 2023, Fay Faircloth, 89, was called to heaven and went to walk with the angels. She passed away peacefully after a brief illness.

Born in Sophia, North Carolina in the house she grew up in, Fay’s life was centered around her church, Sophia Baptist in Sophia, NC. She began playing piano for her childhood church, Caraway Baptist, when she was only 12 years old and resumed playing when she joined Sophia Baptist, 50 years ago. When Sophia Baptist Church needed an organist, she stepped up and mastered the new instrument, playing until just a few years ago showing up Sunday after Sunday, Sunday and Wednesday nights, too. Fay also had a passion for cooking. Her specialty was desserts; candy, pies, and especially many varieties of cakes – all made from scratch – fudge with pecans, chocolate pies, and her favorite cakes: red velvet, apple, carrot, and pound cakes.

Fay was a proud mother and is survived by her three children, Randall (Patricia) Dawson, David Faircloth, and Marcie (Justin) Richardson; brother, Arthur Skeen; five grandchildren, Raina (Anthony) Fitzpatrick, Dillon (Amanda) Pugh, Daniel Pugh, Makayla Richardson, Chloe Richardson; and four greatgrandchildren, Logan, Brady, Joseph, Joshua.

Fay was preceded in death by husbands Joel Dawson and Cecil Faircloth; parents Theodore Skeen and Bessie Skeen; and brother, Boyd Skeen.

Lucia Benjume Rodriguez

February 19, 1962 ~ August 5, 2023 (age 61)

Lucia Benjume Rodriguez, age 61 of Asheboro, passed away Saturday, August 5, 2023 at the home of her daughter. A native of Michoacan, Mexico, Lucia was born February 19, 1962 to Thomas Benjume and the late Agraciana Rodriguez. She lived most of her life in Randolph County and was a devout member of St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Asheboro. In addition to her mother, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Efrain Mondragon Castro. Lucia leaves behind to cherish her memory, her loving children; sons, Efrain Mondragon Benjume and Juan Antonio Mondragon Benjume; daughters, Nora Elvia Mondragon Benjume and Emilia J. Mondragon Benjume.

Leonard Dexter Kellis

February 23, 1967 — August 8, 2023

Leonard Dexter Kellis, 56, of Seagrove, passed away on August 8, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. Leonard was born in Montgomery County on February 23,1967, to Leonard Nelson Kellis and France Harris Kellis Callicutt. Leonard started work at Rusmont Hosiery Mill as a maintenance worker and he proudly served in the Army National Guard for six years, where he gained recognition for his dedication and received the Army Service Ribbon and expert qualifications in both pistol and hand grenade.

Leonard then pursued a career in law enforcement. He achieved his BLET (Basic Law Enforcement Training) certification and went on to work with the Candor Police Department, Star Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, and the Mt. Gilead Police Department. Throughout his tenure as a law enforcement officer, he earned several awards such as Officer of the Year for 2009-2010 and the Sheriff's Accommodation Award. Additionally, he also worked for Aberdeen Carolina Western Railroad in Star and served as an insurance agent for Woodmen Life Insurance. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Bryan Inman.

He is survived by his wife Beverly Davis Kellis of the home; daughter Tara Pierce (Trevor) of Franklinville; sons Joshua Kellis (Alicia) of Biscoe and Jonathan Lamonds (BilliJo) of Seagrove; stepmother Shirley Kellis; brothers Chucky Kellis (Annie) of Star, and Steve Kellis (Robin) of Star; sisters Linda Sneed (Kenneth) of Candor; Doris Gray (Ricky) of Troy; Sandra Tucker (Will) of Albemarle and Vicky Mauldin (Mitch) of Troy. Twelve grandchildren (with another granddaughter expected to arrive in January) and many nieces and nephews.

Joanna Lynn Connor Genopolos

November 29, 1983 ~ August 6, 2023 (age 39)

Joanna Lynn Connor Genopolos, age 39, of Franklinville passed away August 6, 2023 at home surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born November 29, 1983 in Randolph County, North Carolina the daughter of Ronald Wayne Connor and Sharon McKinnon Connor.

Joanna’s journey on Earth lasted for an all-too brief yet impactful number of years. From her birth to her passing, she lived a life filled with love, compassion, and a true zest for life. Her vibrant spirit and infectious smile touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She loved being outdoors and surrounded by nature, Joanna found solace and joy in the beauty of the natural world. When she was a devoted home caregiver, Joanna dedicated her time and energy to caring for others.

Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Ronald Wayne Connor and Sharon McKinnon Connor; brother, Ronald Connor II; grandmother, Audrey McKinnon; boyfriend, Bradley Cheek and his son Colin Smith; favorite aunt and uncle, Donald and Edna Connor; two beloved canine companions, Hog and Greasy; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

Michael Lacy Blackmon

March 30, 1948 ~ August 1, 2023 (age 75)

Michael Lacy Blackmon, age 75 of Franklinville, passed away Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem.

A native of Richmond County, Michael was born March 30, 1948 to the late Earl and Madi Frye Blackmon. He was craftsman, having worked in furniture manufacturing for many years.

Michael leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving daughter, Amy, of Greensboro.

Michael Roy Thompson

April 28, 1943 ~ August 3, 2023 (age 80)

Michael Roy Thompson, Jr., age 80 of Asheboro, passed away Thursday August 3, 2023 at his home. A native of Montgomery County, Michael was born April 28, 1943 and lived most of his life in Asheboro. He is preceded in death by his parents, Michael Roy Thompson Sr. and Thelma Redding Thompson.

Michael was a veteran of the US Navy and was employed as a clerk with CP&L for over 30 years until his retirement. He enjoyed fishing and collecting antiques in his spare time. He was married June 6, 1964 to His beloved wife Ruby Dougan Thompson in Asheboro.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife and his son, Michael Roy Thompson III.

Michael leaves behind to cherish his memory, brotherin law, Donald Dougan and wife Brenda; sisters-in law Mary Bright and Linda Carver; brother-in law Tim Dougan; niece Michelle Barfield and her husband Matthew; his fishing buddies, Johnny Barfield and Barry Chandler and longtime friend, Butch.

Biden’s reelection bid faces vulnerabilities in wake of special counsel appointment

The Associated Press NEW YORK — As he gears up for reelection, President Joe Biden is already facing questions about his ability to convince voters that the economy is performing well. There’s skepticism about the 80-year-old president’s ability to manage a second term. And on Friday, Biden faced a fresh setback when Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel to probe his son, Hunter.

Biden’s challenges pale in comparison with his predecessor and possible future rival, Donald Trump, who is facing three criminal indictments, with additional charges expected soon. But the appointment of the special counsel was nonetheless a reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Biden as he wages another election campaign in a deeply uncertain political climate. There was little immediate sign that Garland’s decision meaningfully changed Biden’s standing within his party. If anything, it underscored the unprecedented nature of the next election. Rather than a battle of ideas waged on the traditional campaign trail, the next push for the presidency may be shaped by sudden legal twists in courtrooms from Washington to Delaware and Miami.

“Prior to Trump, this would be a big deal,” New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said of Friday’s announcement. “Now, I don’t think it means anything. Trump has made everyone so numb to this stuff.”

Referring to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, Buckley added, “Because of how dismissive MAGA America is to the very real crimes of Trump and his family, it has numbed the minds of swing voters and Democratic voters or activists who would normally be fully engaged and outraged.”

Polling has consistently shown that Democratic voters were not excited about Biden’s reelection even before Garland’s announcement.

Just 47% of Democrats wanted

Biden to run again in 2024, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in April. Democrats’ enthusiasm for Biden’s presidential campaign has consistently trailed behind Republicans’ enthusiasm for Trump’s: 55% of Republicans said they wanted Trump to run again in the APNORC poll. And Biden’s approval rating in polling by Gallup stood at 41% on average over the last three months. Only Jimmy Carter notched a lower average rating in Gallup’s polling at this point in his

presidency, while ratings for Trump were about the same at 43%.

Garland announced Friday that he was naming David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in Delaware, as the special counsel in the Hunter Biden investigation. It comes as plea deal talks involving tax and gun charges in the case Weiss had already been probing hit an impasse.

The appointment of a special counsel ensures that Trump will not stand alone as the only presidential

US suicides hit an all-time high last year

The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 49,500 people took their own lives last year in the U.S., the highest number ever, according to new government data posted Thursday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which posted the numbers, has not yet calculated a suicide rate for the year, but available data suggests suicides are more common in the U.S. than at any time since the dawn of World War II.

“There’s something wrong. The number should not be going up,” said Christina Wilbur, a 45-yearold Florida woman whose son shot himself to death last year.

“My son should not have died,” she said. “I know it’s complicated, I really do. But we have to be able to do something. Something that we’re not doing. Because whatever we’re doing right now is not helping.”

Experts caution that suicide is complicated, and that recent increases might be driven by a range of factors, including higher rates of depression and limited availability of mental health services.

But a main driver is the growing availability of guns, said Jill Harkavy-Friedman, senior vice president of research at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Suicide attempts involving guns end in death far more often than

those with other means, and gun sales have boomed — placing firearms in more and more homes.

A recent Johns Hopkins University analysis used preliminary 2022 data to calculate that the nation’s overall gun suicide rate rose last year to an all-time high. For the first time, the gun suicide rate among Black teens surpassed the rate among white teens, the researchers found.

“I don’t know if you can talk about suicide without talking about firearms,” Harkavy-Friedman said.

U.S. suicides steadily rose from the early 2000s until 2018, when the national rate hit its highest level since 1941. That year saw about 48,300 suicide deaths — or 14.2 for every 100,000 Americans.

The rate fell slightly in 2019. It dropped again in 2020, during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some experts tied that to a phenomenon seen in the early stages of wars and natural disasters, when people pull together and support each other.

But in 2021, suicides rose 4%.

Last year, according to the new data, the number jumped by more than 1,000, to 49,449 — about a 3% increase vs. the year before. The provisional data comes from U.S. death certificates and is considered almost complete, but it may change slightly as death information is reviewed in the months ahead.

The largest increases were seen in older adults. Deaths rose nearly 7% in people ages 45 to 64, and more than 8% in people 65 and older. White men, in particular, have very high rates, the CDC said.

Many middle-aged and elderly people experience problems like losing a job or losing a spouse, and it’s important to reduce stigma and other obstacles to them getting assistance, said Dr. Debra Houry, the CDC’s chief medical officer.

Suicides in adults ages 25 to 44 grew about 1%. The new data indicates that suicide became the second leading cause of death in that age group in 2022, up from No. 4 in 2021.

Despite the grim statistics, some say there is reason for optimism. A national crisis line launched a year ago, meaning anyone in the U.S. can dial 988 to reach mental health specialists.

The CDC is expanding a suicide program to fund more prevention work in different communities. And there’s growing awareness of the issue and that it’s OK to ask for help,

candidate grappling with the fallout of a serious criminal investigation in the midst of the 2024 campaign season.

Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, has already obtained thousands of pages of financial records from various members of the Biden family through subpoenas to the Treasury Department and various financial institutions as part of a congressional probe. He released a statement Friday accusing Garland of “trying to stonewall congressional oversight.” Comer vowed “to follow the Biden family’s money trail.”

Back in New Hampshire, Buckley acknowledged that voters are not excited about Biden’s reelection.

“But they’re really not excited about Trump,” he said. “There’s a seriousness around this election. People can say they’re not excited (about Biden). They can say, ‘Oh, he shouldn’t run again.’ But the reality is that he’s the only alternative to Trump.”

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how closely key voters are paying attention.

A Marquette Law School Poll conducted last month found that about three-quarters of Americans had heard about Hunter Biden’s agreement to plead guilty to misdemeanor charges of tax evasion and a gun charge. Republicans were slightly more likely than Democrats to say they have heard “a lot” about the topic, with independents being much less likely to be paying attention.

health officials say.

There was a more than 8% drop in suicides in people ages 10 to 24 in 2022. That may be due to increased attention to youth mental health issues and a push for schools and others to focus on the problem, CDC officials said.

But even the smaller number masks tragedy for families.

Christina Wilbur lost her 21-yearold son, Cale, on June 16 last year. He died in her home in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.

Cale Wilbur had lost two friends and an uncle to suicide and had been dealing with depression. On that horrible morning, he and his mother were having an argument. She had confronted him about his drug use, his mother said. She left his bedroom and when she returned he had a gun.

“I was begging him not too, and to calm down,” she said. “It looked like he relaxed for a second, but then he killed himself.”

She describes her life since as black hole of emptiness and sorrow, and had found it hard to talk to friends or even family about Cale.

“There’s just this huge 6-foot-2 hole, everywhere,” she said. “Everything reminds me of what’s missing.”

It’s hard to find professionals to help, and those that are around can be expensive, she said. She turned to support groups, including an organization called Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors that operates a 24/7 online forum.

“There’s nothing like being with people who get it,” she said.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden speaks during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., April 29, 2023.

AP PHOTO

In this Nov. 20, 2015 file photo, a man walks along a trail during sunset near Manhattan, Kan.

NC red wolves

A female red wolf emerges from her den sheltering newborn pups at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, on May 13, 2019. On Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, the U.S. government agreed to settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina.

Hoke County Schools approves Federal Consolidated Budget application

NC fentanyl victim families to hold awareness rally in downtown Raleigh

In the last nine years, over 13,671 North Carolina residents have been killed by fentanyl, which is enough people to fill the Raleigh Convention Center. The current rate for deaths by fentanyl in the state is roughly eight citizens a day, and these figures include people of all ages. To bring attention to this drug epidemic, the families from the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC and Forgotten Victims of North Carolina will be holding a rally at the Capitol Building in downtown Raleigh. This event will take place on August 20, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., regardless of the weather that day. The goal of the rally is to encourage the state senate to pass Bill 189, increase the funding of the NC DHHS, ensure all drug-related deaths are thoroughly investigated as potential homicides and crime scenes, and be recognized as “crime victims” by the NC Justice System and NC. Law Enforcement. For more information about this event, please contact Barb Walsh, the executive director of the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC, at: barb@fenvic.org.

Shooting in Rockfish area under investigation

On August 4, law enforcement responded to a call about a shooting that took place in the Ridge Manor Neighborhood at roughly 1 a.m. Shell casings were reported to have been found outside of a home on the corner of Berwick and Ridge Manor, but a suspect has yet to be identified. At this time, law enforcement is still investigating.

Board of Education to interview candidates for HCHS project manager position

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

RAEFORD — The Hoke County Schools Board of Education met Tuesday, August 8, with discussions over a potential hire as well as the federal consolidated budget on the agenda.

The board was first presented with a proposal to interview potential project managers for the Hoke County High School project.

The two candidates whose resumes had been brought forth to the board by Hoke County Schools staff were Robert Bell and John Birath.

“Mr. Bell has a lot of military experience as well as a few different types of projects where he’s had management experience both within the military and outside in

the civilian world,” said Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Information Systems Chad Hunt.

“We also have Mr. Birath, who has a background as an architect and has also served in various positions as far as project management is concerned with also overseeing the building of various schools,” Hunt said. “At one point in time, Mr. Birath also worked with SfLa+ at their firm. This was actually the person that, when this conversation first started, was recommended.”

“I do realize that it does cost money, but at the same time, their diligence in being on the site, almost daily, really ensures that things are being done correctly,” said Interim Superintendent Rodney Shotwell. “Making sure that if there is another way to do part of the project when they’re building that could save money, that’s what that person is there for.”

“Having someone like one of these people on board that has experience with public school con-

struction, that has experience on the architectural and construction side, having someone like that will be an invaluable resource in managing this contract. Managing the contractor and making good sound situations making sure you get the money back at the end of the project that you’re entitled to will more than pay for what the typical cost of someone like this is. You will need somebody to manage and lead and drive this forward for you and to make sure that the school system is making the divisions that you need to make in a timely fashion. Not delaying the project, not delaying the contractor.” Attorney Rod Malone

The board was also given a presentation on the 2023-2024 Federal Grant Application, otherwise known as the Federal Programs Consolidated Budget.

The application is for four grants:

Title I - Part A and C, Title II, Title III, and Title IV funds.

“Title I - Part C is our migrant budget, and for 2023-24 the al-

Hoke physician receives 2023 Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award

North State Journal

RALEIGH — Last week, Dr. Karen L. Smith, who has been a private practice physician in Hoke County, received the 2023 Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award.

This prestigious acknowledgment was presented by Governor Roy Cooper and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler at a reception at the North Carolina Executive Mansion.

Smith, who has served the people of Hoke County for 30 years, has worked tirelessly to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of rural communities, including efforts to prevent diabetes and expand telehealth. Her pioneering work to implement innovative healthcare programs and advocate for policies that address the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural areas has made a profound dif-

“Dr. Karen L. Smith’s commitment to advance rural health in North Carolina is truly commendable. Her dedication to ensuring that all North Carolina residents have access to quality healthcare has made a significant impact on rural communities.

Governor Roy Cooper

ference in the lives of countless individuals.

In addition to her work as a physician, Smith has served in numerous leadership roles, including as president of the North Caroli-

na Academy of Family Physicians and the North Carolina Medical Society Board of Directors, as well as an elected board member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Prior to receiving this rural leadership award, Smith was also recognized in 2016 as the North Carolina Family Physician of the Year and the 2017 American Academy Family Physician of the Year.

“Dr. Karen L. Smith’s commitment to advance rural health in North Carolina is truly commendable,” said Governor Cooper. “Her dedication to ensuring that all North Carolina residents have access to quality healthcare has made a significant impact on rural communities. We are proud to honor Dr. Smith, with agricultural leader L.T. Ward, with the Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award for their exceptional contributions.”

location is $120,513,” said Executive Director of Federal Programs and School Improvement Erica Fortenberry. “That is a significant decrease from last year of about $54,852. That decrease is due to the fact that our migrant student population did decrease by about 60 students last year and the year before combined as the migrant funds are only allocated for a two-year span based on your count.”

According to Fortenberry, the migrant funds will pay for one migrant full-time recruiter, three 10-month full-time salaries for migrant tutors – one for elementary, middle and high school – professional development opportunities, field experiences for migrant students and a two-week “Summer Extended Learning Program,” supplemental supplies, migrant family events and multicultural family night/day out, family literacy courses and support for out-of-school

See HOKE SCHOOLS, page 2

youth.

“Title 2 is our Supportive Effective Instruction that has a budget of $427,435,” Fortenberry said. “We did have a significant increase in that budget this year of $25,516.”

According to Fortenberry, those funds are allocated for teacher salaries, tuition reimbursement, new teacher orientation and supplies and materials.

“Title III is our Language Acquisition,” said Fortenberry. “The budget is $80,281. This is just a supplemental for our ESL students. Last year the allocation was $78,480. Just a slight decrease.”

The funding will provide for a part-time parent liaison to support ESL students, two ESL tutors –one at Sandy Grove and one at West Hoke – professional development, the purchase of instructional supplies and materials and extended

Nominations open for upcoming state fair’s ‘Farm Family of the Day’

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — While the 2023 N.C. State Fair is still a couple of months away, competition applications and event planning are already in motion.

The fair officials have opened up nominations to honor 11 farm families to be recognized as the Tractor Supply Company’s “Farm Family of the Day.” This is the third year Tractor Supply Company has sponsored the program to celebrate farm families behind the state’s “$103.2 billion agriculture and agribusiness industry.”

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a press release. “Thanks to Tractor Supply Company, we can help tell the story of our farmers because they are the individuals out there every day working to grow the food, fiber and fuel that we need to survive.”

Nominations and applications for Farm Family of the Day will be open through Sept. 15. Families will be Applications can be found at ncstatefair.org/2023/Attractions/FarmFamilyOfTheDay.htm.

Families receiving the award will get an N.C. State Fair gift basket containing fair tickets, ride passes and “additional swag” provided by Tractor Supply Company and the N.C. State Fair.

This year’s fair runs from Oct. 12-22 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. More information on the upcoming fair, competitions and events can be found at ncstatefair.org.

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year.”

Agriculture Commissioner Steve

Troxler

day learning opportunities.

“Title IV is our Student Support and Academic Enrichment,” said Fortenberry. “This year’s grant is $230,246. Last year was $212,066. That was an increase of $18,180.

“This grant is supported in three areas: to improve student achievement and well-rounded education –we used it in previous years to help our art programs. This year, we’re going to use them to support our STEM – to have safe and healthy students, and the effective use of technology integration is the last component.”

“The big grant is Title I, Part ABasic Programs,” said Fortenberry. “This year, the allocation was $2,966,060. That is an increase of $17,913. That is increased due to the fact that our low-income population did increase for the district.”

The funds are primarily to pay the salaries of additional teachers and tutorial programs as well as parent

and family engagement activities, professional development for teaching staff and instructional materials for classroom and student use.

According to Fortenberry, 12% of the funding will go to administrative costs, including supporting materials, salary benefits, travel, staff development for federal program staff, foster care transportation, homeless education and other indirect costs.

In addition, $150,000 is blended with NC Pre-K, Smart Start and EC Pre-School to support Pre-K classes, and $4,763.76 is allocated to support equitable services for two outof-district private schools: Greater Fayetteville Adventist Academy and The School of Hope.

Following the presentation, the board approved the submission of the consolidated federal budget applications.

The Hoke County Schools Board of Education will next meet September 12.

♦ McQueen, Markeith Dewayne (B/M/43), Assault on a Female, 08/14/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Goodwin, Jackie (I/M/60), Larceny Felony, 08/12/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Wilson, Edward Milton (B/M/72), DV Protective Order Violation, 08/12/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ McNeill, Byron Augustus (B/M/44), Trespass - Second Degree, 08/12/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Farmer, Trez Allah Shon (B/M/24), Assault Inflict Serious Injury, 08/11/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Stephens, Cordarius (B/M/26), DWI, 08/11/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Callahan, Patrick Evan (W/M/36), DV Protective Order Violation, 08/10/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Tucker, Steven NyaniteEle, Assault on a Female, 08/10/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Prince, Phillip Anthony (B/M/51), Criminal Contempt, 08/09/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

♦ Barbour, Amanda (W/F/33), Parole Violation, 08/08/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Protecting our veterans & honoring our fallen heroes

AS THE REPRESENTATIVE of the largest Army base in the world, making sure our community’s veterans, troops, and their families get the support they deserve is among my top priorities.

service members—including our own U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss—during Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans.

At the end of July, the House passed the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. This legislation will strengthen our commitment to our veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. This legislation is also providing nearly $800 million above President Biden’s budget request for military construction to improve our national security.

I was able to secure large wins for our community, including over $250 million in funding for critical infrastructure projects that will aid our region’s military personnel, $150 million for barracks, and $36 million for a desperately needed child care center at Fort Liberty, formerly Fort Bragg. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to increase funding for the Veteran Crisis Line by $10 million.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need. In March alone, the crisis line received more than 88,000 calls, texts, and chats—the highest number we’ve ever had in one month. The additional funding in my amendment will allow the VA to better serve veterans, and their families, by ensuring the Veterans Crisis Line has the capacity to respond to every veteran in need.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-2738255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www. VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans. Ensuring our military families and veterans have the resources they deserve are the most important duties we have in Congress, and we must continue to do everything we can to improve their quality of life.

As we support our nation’s veterans, we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice. August 15th marks the two year anniversary of when our nation lost 13 brave U.S.

The Barack Obama cover-up

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama.

LAST WEEK, Tablet released a fascinating conversation with historian David Garrow, author of a massive unauthorized biography of former President Barack Obama in his early years titled “Rising Stars.” By all rights, the book should have been a massive hit upon its release in 2017. Instead, it underperformed. The revelations contained therein never hit the mainstream. And that simple fact, in and of itself, demonstrates a simple reality of the modern political era: The entire press apparatus has been dedicated, since at least 2008, to the proposition that Obama had to be protected from all possible damage.

Garrow’s book carried multiple bombshells for Obama. Obama’s first autobiography — the egotist has already written several — “Dreams From My Father” told a story about how he broke up from a white girlfriend in his Chicago years over her failure to understand his desire for racial solidarity with black America. Actually, as Garrow’s book relates, the couple broke up because Obama refused to disown black antisemitism. Furthermore, as the book uncovers, Obama wrote letters to a girlfriend in which he “repeatedly fantasizes about making love to men.”

These are incredible allegations, to say the least. They were reported in the book. But as David Samuels of Tablet observes, the media were shockingly remiss in covering any of these stories: “’Rising Star’ highlights a remarkable lack of curiosity on the part of mainstream reporters and institutions about a man who almost instantaneously was treated less like a politician and more like the idol of an inter-elite cult.”

That was true in 2008, when the media steadfastly refused to take seriously reports about Obama’s attendance at an openly racist and antisemitic church for two decades. And it’s true in 2023, when the media still refuse to cover the fact that a huge number of President Joe Biden’s closest aides are

These brave men and women lost in Kabul put their lives on the line to save our fellow citizens and allies in harm’s way, and will forever be known as heroes. I continue to pray for the family of Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss, as well as the Gold Star families of each of these heroes, whose legacy will never be forgotten.

I recently met with family members of these heroes, including Staff Sergeant Knauss’ mother. Their pain and loss has been compounded by the misinformation and a lack of transparency by President Biden and his administration. These family members deserve to know all the facts and the truth about the mistakes made that put their loved ones in harm’s way. I am working with Committee on Foreign Affairs Chairman Mike McCaul, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers and others to ensure we get the answers they are seeking. We will hold this administration accountable. Whether it’s protecting our veterans, shoring up our national security, securing the border, growing our economy, or holding our government agencies accountable, I continue to fight for what matters to you most. I’m proud to be standing up for you.

My goal is to continue to provide you with high quality constituent services and be accessible to hear your needs, thoughts, and concerns on key issues facing our community and nation. My dedicated staff in our Southern Pines and Fayetteville district offices are here to serve you.

Working with my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance common sense solutions that improve your quality of life is part of my commitment to you as your Congressman.

Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

Obama’s closest political allies. Obama resides in Washington, D.C.; all of the people who made policy for him now make policy for Biden. And yet nobody talks about the Obama influence in the current White House.

All of this is part of a broader pact on the part of every major apparatus in American life to mirror Obama’s perceptions of the world. In Obama’s own mind, he was a world-historical figure; that’s why, in 2010, when he experienced a rather predictable shellacking in a midterm election, he responded by suggesting that his opposition was actually motivated by vicious racism and brutal bigotry. The media mirrored that perspective; so did entertainment; so did tech companies. The immaculate, solid wall of support for Obama’s intersectional coalition is intimately connected to direct allegiance from the movers and shakers toward the Obama persona.

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama. Garrow concludes about Obama: “He has no interest in building the Democratic Party as an institution. I think that’s obvious. And I don’t think he had any truly deep, meaningful policy commitments other than the need to feel and to be perceived as victorious, as triumphant.” But that victory — that triumph — came at the expense of the American people, who were promised a racial conciliator and a man of honor by a media invested in that lie. When the truth materialized and our institutions continued to perpetuate the lie, our institutions collapsed. We live in the era of Barack Obama still.

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Chadwell: Death of Liberty freshman was not football-related

Lynchburg, Virginia

First-year Liberty coach

Jamey Chadwell says the death of a freshman football player was not footballrelated. Chadwell says the team learned of the passing of 19-year-old Tajh Boyd of Chesapeake, Virginia, on Saturday. He declined to give further details about Boyd’s death, saying he wanted to respect the privacy of the player’s family. Chadwell says the team held a service for Boyd on Sunday, and that rain fell following the service. After that, he said, a rainbow appeared over the stadium.

GOLF

Auburn grad student

Schofill wins U.S.

Women’s Amateur

Los Angeles

Megan Schofill won the U.S. Women’s Amateur on Sunday at Bel-Air Country Club, beating Latanna Stone 4 and 3 in the 36-hole final.

The 22-year-old Schofill, from Monticello, Florida, is a graduate student entering her fifth season at Auburn.

The 21-year-old Stone, from Riverview, Florida, is entering her fifth year at LSU. After Stone won the par-4 24th with a birdie, Schofill took the par-4 25th and par-5 26th with birdies for a 4-up advantage. They halved the next five holes with pars, Stone won the par-5 32nd and the match ended on the par-4 33rd when Stone’s 5-foot par putt lipped out.

NFL Falcons cut former starting LB Walker

Flowery Branch, Ga.

The Atlanta Falcons waived 2022 starting linebacker

Mykal Walker on Sunday, two days after he started and had four tackles in the Falcons’ 19-3 preseason win at Miami. Falcons coach Arthur Smith did not start his first-team players against the Dolphins.

On Sunday, the team signed linebacker Frank Ginda, the 2023 USFL defensive player of the year. The Falcons did not announce an injury to Walker in Friday night’s game, but the 2020 fourth-round draft pick apparently was unavailable for the remainder of training camp. Walker had 107 tackles with two interceptions and one sack in 16 games, including 12 starts, in 2022.

Cavaliers player wounded in deadly attack returns for 2023 season

The Associated Press CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia running back Mike Hollins knows he will never be the same and admits that the position of football on his priorities list “has shrunk.” He still can’t wait to run onto the field with his Cavaliers brothers for their opener this season.

“I can only imagine the emotions that’ll be flowing through my body. I just — I literally can’t. I have no words because the spring game hit me like a sack of rocks, and I didn’t expect it at all, so I can only imagine,” he said. “I’m ready, though. I’m ready for it.”

Hollins, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of two survivors of a shooting last November that left three teammates dead. He was shot in the back, needed several surgeries and spent a week in the hospi-

tal before beginning a long rehabilitation.

The shootings, which also left student Marlee Morgan injured, rocked the team and the community, and it caused the Cavaliers to cancel their final two games.

Hollins uplifted his teammates when he returned for spring practices four months later even though he wasn’t cleared for full contact yet. That came about midway through the 15 sessions, and he scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the spring game. He celebrated the touchdown by placing the ball on the name of D’Sean Perry, painted in the end zone along with those of Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler, those killed on a school bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C. A former Virginia player, Christopher Jones Jr., is accused of the shootings and awaiting trial.

Throughout his recovery, which he admits is more complete physically than mentally, Hollins “has been a superhero,” roommate and fellow running back Perris Jones said. “Experiencing what he experienced and carrying himself with as much grace and perseverance as he does is inspirational to see day in and day out. His spirit is truly unbroken, and he embodies that every day.”

Hollins knows no one would have questioned him, or any of last year’s team, had they decided not to play again or to move to another school. He also knows to keep things in perspective as they play to honor their fallen teammates.

“Us being here and being able to play again and touch the field and just come together as a team is doing that legacy justice in itself. We don’t have to go out and try to ... go undefeated or win a champion-

ship,” he said. That desire to honor their teammates has been cited by several players that decided to return, including defensive lineman Chico Bennett and Perris Jones.

“It’s a shame it has to happen in this way,” Bennett said, “but now that we’re given a platform, we’re going to make the most of it. I look forward to being able to do that and honoring them through our play and doing that to the best of our ability.”

When Hollins suits up for Virginia’s game against Tennessee in Nashville on Sept. 2, he said, he will be “carrying something with me.”

“It’ll always weigh on you,” he said. “There will never be a day where you won’t remember it or feel something missing from your heart when thinking about it.”

Getting back on the field, though, sure might help.

Virginia running back Mike Hollins, pictured last season against UNC, was wounded in a shooting attack last November that left three of his teammates dead.

Vu captures 2nd major of year with Women’s British Open win

The Associated Press WALTON-ON-THE-HILL, England — Lilia Vu was already smiling when her long, snaking birdie putt dropped into the cup on the 18th green, confirming her — not that it was ever in doubt — as the Women’s British Open champion and a two-time major winner.

The 25-year-old Californian has plenty to smile about.

A first LPGA Tour win. Two major championships. An imminent ranking of No. 1 in the world.

How that’s for a breakthrough season?

“It sounds almost unreal,” Vu said.

With accurate driving and relentless reliability on the greens, Vu took any potential drama out of the final round of the year’s last major by staying largely out of trouble at Walton Heath and shooting 5-under 67 for a six-

stroke victory on Sunday. She began the day tied for the lead with popular home hope Charley Hull, with 11 players within five shots of them. By the time she teed off on No. 11, Vu led by five after seeing all of her rivals — including top-ranked Nelly Korda — falter one by one.

Hull, roared on by the locals on a course located just 30 minutes from where she grew up, holed out from a greenside bunker for eagle at the par-5 11th to trim the lead to three shots.

Vu responded with an approach to 3 feet for birdie at No. 12 and was never threatened down the stretch.

She walked down No. 18 leading by five shots and, after rolling in a sixth birdie of her round, she was drenched in champagne by fellow players.

Vu won an LPGA event in Thailand in February, then the Chevron Championship in a playoff

two months later. Since then, she has missed the cut in four of her six stroke-play events, saying she struggled to deal with a change in expectations as a major champion.

“How I felt afterward,” she said, “honestly I was thinking those two wins were a fluke.”

Now, she is the first female player to win two majors in the same year since Jin Young Ko in 2019, and the first American woman since Juli Inkster in 1999.

From being outside the top 100 midway through 2022, her first year back on the LPGA Tour, she will become Monday the fourth American to top the women’s ranking since it was introduced in 2006.

And heading into next month’s Solheim Cup, what a year this has been for U.S. players. Three of the five women’s majors have been won by an American — Allisen Corpuz won the Women’s U.S. Open title at Pebble Beach — and

Preakness considering changing the timing of the second Triple Crown race

Officials are considering moving the race to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby

The Associated Press Preakness officials say they are considering moving the second Triple Crown race back to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby instead of two weeks later, which would change the timing that has been in place for decades.

Aidan Butler, CEO of 1/ST Racing, which owns and runs Pimlico

Race Course in Baltimore where the Preakness takes place, said it’s necessary to take a close look at making changes.

“Discussion around spacing out the schedule of the Triple Crown is nothing new, and we believe the time has come to advance those discussions to the next step,” Butler said in a statement sent to The Associated Press on Friday. “Allowing additional time between the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes would give horses a greater opportunity to prepare and be ready between the Derby and the second leg of the Triple Crown.”

Butler, who floated the possibility most recently this week in a statement given to Thoroughbred Daily News, citing horse safety among other reasons, acknowledged moving the Preakness would have implications around the industry.

“We look forward to engaging with all stakeholders to work through questions and concerns,” Butler said. “The future of the Triple Crown is best decided collectively, but we are committed to seeing this conversation through to a positive result.”

Other stakeholders are not willing to make this drastic of a

that’s not happened since 2014.

Vu finished on 14-under 274 for the tournament, a great score on a heathland course southwest of London that provided a tough test for the world’s best, mainly because of the thick heather running beside the fairways.

She had five bogeys all week. The only one Sunday came at the par-5 No. 15 when she drove into

the heather for the only time in the round and then found a bunker with her third shot.

“It just comes down to not thinking about winning, just playing one shot at a time,” Vu said. “This golf course forces you to do that. It really tests you. That was my only goal. To drive the ball well and give myself chances for birdie.”

change. The Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes have been run over a span of five weeks beginning with the first Saturday in May since 1969, with the exception of 2020 when the races happened out of order because of the pandemic.

A spokesman for Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, home of the Derby, said the track had no comment. Any changes to the Preakness likely would not affect the Derby leading off the Triple Crown.

Moving the Preakness from the third Saturday in May to early June would have major implications on the Belmont Stakes, the 1½-mile third leg of the Triple Crown at Belmont Park in New York.

New York Racing Association vice president of communications Pat McKenna said the orga-

nization, which runs the Belmont “has concerns about fundamental changes to the structure of the Triple Crown.”

“We have no plans to move the date of the Belmont Stakes,” McKenna said in an email to the AP.

Changing the timing of the races also was debated years ago during a lengthy drought without a Triple Crown champion. American Pharoah winning all three races in 2015 and then Justify accomplishing the feat in 2018 quieted the conversation until recently.

Horse deaths this spring at Churchill Downs, which caused the track to suspend operations to investigate possible causes, have led to larger conversations around the sport. The federally mandated Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority recently went into place to oversee track safety, medication and doping and standardize the industry around the U.S.

AP PHOTO

Preakness officials say they are considering moving the second Triple Crown race back to four weeks after the Kentucky Derby instead of two weeks later, which would change the timing that has been in place for more than half a century.

AP PHOTO

Lilia Vu celebrates her victory in the 2023 AIG Women’s Open at Walton Heath, in Surrey, England, on Sunday.

The Pentagon plans to shake up DC National Guard

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Pentagon is developing plans to restructure the National Guard in Washington, D.C., in a move to address problems highlighted by the chaotic response to the Jan. 6 riot and safety breaches during the 2020 protests over the murder of George Floyd, The Associated Press has learned.

The changes under discussion would transfer the District of Columbia’s aviation units, which came under sharp criticism during the protests when a helicopter flew dangerously low over a crowd. In exchange, the district would get more military police, which is often the city’s most significant need, as it grapples with crowd control and large public events.

Several current and former officials familiar with the talks spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. They said no final decisions have been made. A key sticking point is who would

National Guard vehicles drive along Pennsylvania Avenue NW, as they prepare for protests and demonstrations, June 19, 2020, in Washington, D.C.

be in control of the D.C. Guard — a politically divisive question that gets to the heart of what has been an ongoing, turbulent issue. Across the country, governors control their National Guard units and can make decisions on deploying them to local disasters and other needs. But D.C. is not a state, so the president is in charge but gives that authority to the defense secretary, who generally delegates it to the Army secretary.

According to officials, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is weighing two options: maintaining the current system or handing control to U.S. Northern Command, which is in charge of homeland defense.

Senior officials have argued in favor of Northern Command, which would take control out of the hands of political appointees in Washington who may be at odds with the D.C. government, and giving it to nonpartisan military commanders who already oversee homeland defense. Others, however, believe the decision-making should remain at the Pentagon, mirroring the civilian control that governors have on their

troops.

The overall goal, officials said, is not to decrease the size of the district’s Guard, but reform it and ensure it has the units, equipment and training to do the missions it routinely faces. The proposal to shift the aviation forces is largely an Army decision. It would move the D.C. Air Guard wing and its aircraft to the Maryland Guard, and the Army aviation unit, with its helicopters, to Virginia’s Guard.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office did not respond to a request for comment Friday on the proposed changes.

But Bowser and other local officials have claimed that the mayor’s office should have sole authority to deploy the local guard, arguing that the D.C. mayor has the responsibilities of any governor without the extra authorities or tools.

When faced with a potential security event, the mayor of D.C. has to go to the Pentagon — usually the Army secretary — to request National Guard assistance. That was true during the violent protests in

the city over the killing of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in 2020, and later as an angry mob stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

As the Jan. 6 riot was unfolding, city leaders were making frantic calls to Army leaders, asking them to send Guard troops to the Capitol where police and security were being overrun. City leaders complained heatedly about delays in the response as the Pentagon considered Bowser’s National Guard request. City police ended up reinforcing the Capitol Police.

Army leaders, in response, said the district was demanding help but not providing the details and information necessary to determine what forces were needed and how they would be used.

Army officials were concerned about taking the Guard troops who were arrayed around the city doing traffic duty and sending them into a riot, because they were not prepared and didn’t have appropriate gear. And they criticized the city for repeatedly insisting it would not need security help when asked by

federal authorities in the days leading up to Jan. 6.

The swirling confusion spurred congressional hearings and accusations that political considerations influenced the Trump administration’s response to the unrest in the Democratic-majority city. Defense officials rejected those charges, and blamed the city.

Within the Pentagon, however, there are broader concerns that D.C. is too quick to seek National Guard troops to augment law enforcement shortfalls in the city that should be handled by police. In recent days, a city council member suggested the D.C. Guard might be needed to help battle spiking local crime.

The restructuring is an effort to smooth out the process and avoid communications problems if another crisis erupts.

An Army investigation in April 2021 sharply criticized the D.C. Guard, saying troops lacked clear guidance and didn’t fully understand how to use helicopters appropriately during the civil unrest in June 2020.

US commits to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wild, settling lawsuit

The Associated Press

The U.S. government will settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina, where nearly three dozen of the canine species are believed to still run free.

The conservation groups sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2020 after it stopped releasing captive-bred wolves. Eastern North Carolina is the only place in the world where they roam wild outside of zoos and wildlife refuges. The Southern Environmental Law Center filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Red Wolf Coalition, Defenders of Wildlife and the Animal Welfare Institute. A settlement

agreement was reached Wednesday, according to documents filed in U.S. District Court in North Carolina.

“For 25 years, North Carolina was home to one of the most successful predator reintroductions in the world,” Ramona McGee, a Southern Environmental Law Center attorney, said in a statement. “This settlement puts us on a path to restoring the red wolf to its rightful place as a celebrated success story.”

Red wolves once occupied much of the Eastern U.S. but were driven to near extinction by trapping, hunting and habitat loss before they were reintroduced to North Carolina in 1987. Their range is limited to five North Carolina counties. Scientists at zoos and other sites have

maintained a captive population of nearly 300 wolves in recent years.

After red wolves were reintroduced, the state’s wild population grew beyond 100 and remained stable through 2012.

Wolf numbers were bolstered by releases of captive-born pups and sterilization of coyotes that competed for space. But those approaches were halted in 2015 amid pressure from conservative politicians and landowners who deemed wolves a nuisance.

Red wolves are in an area dominated by farms and private land. At least 96 red wolves died of gunshot wounds over the decades.

Some landowners have said that the wolves have made it harder to fight coyotes. A federal judge in 2014 banned night hunting of coy-

otes in red wolf territory because the canines are easily mixed up.

By the time conservation groups filed their 2020 lawsuit, they said there could be as few as seven red wolves living in the wild. The groups argued that federal wildlife officials violated the Endangered Species Act through actions that included halting the release of captive-bred wolves in 2015.

The lawsuit prompted a federal judge in 2021 to order the Fish and Wildlife Service to produce a plan to bolster the wild wolves’ numbers as the lawsuit continued.

U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle noted in his order that the conservation groups were likely to succeed, while demonstrating that “extinction is a very real possibility.”

According to the settlement agreement, the Fish and Wildlife Service will develop and publish red wolf release plans for a period of eight years. The plans will include “metrics that can be used to measure performance.”

The agency wrote that it “acknowledges the importance of the Eastern North Carolina red wolf population” and committed to managing in a way that’s consistent with the Endangered Species Act.

As of June, the Fish and Wildlife Service said there 16 known or collared red wolves living in the wild, while estimating the total wild population to be 32 to 34. There were 278 red wolves in the captive population.

Johanna Hamburger, a senior attorney with the Animal Welfare Institute, said in a statement Wednesday that the agreement “pulls wild red wolves back from the brink of extinction.”

“When we filed this lawsuit, scientists warned that if the (Fish and Wildlife Service) continued down that path, red wolves could be extinct in the wild by 2024,” she said.

Vickie Marie (Barvais) Wilkes

August 10, 1946 ~ August 12, 2023

Mrs. Vickie Marie (Barvais) Wilkes, of Raeford, NC passed away on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at the age of 77.

Vickie was born in Clarksburg, West Virginia on August 10, 1946, to the late Leon and Betty Barvais. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Richard Wilkes; and several very close friends she held dear to her heart.

Sue Wells Hanson

June 5, 1943 ~ August 5, 2023

Sue Wells Hanson died after a short battle with aggressive cancer on August 05, 2023 in our home, Myrtle Beach, SC.

Sue was born June 05, 1943 in Lafayette Village, VA. She was the last of the five Wells siblings having outlived her three brothers, Pug, Joe, and Lewis, and sister Judy. She is survived by her loving husband Buren "Rusty"; cousin Mary Lou Wells Kinsley; nephew Matt Price (Jennifer), of Cary, NC; Matt's father, Hassell Price (Judy's husband); nieces Lisa Pendleton and Tina Wells; Dale King and Sister Cindy Well; brother in law Craig I. Hanson and his wife Nancy of Charleston, SC.

Sarah Beaty Ropp

June 5, 1927 ~ August 7, 2023

Mrs. Sarah Beaty Ropp, 96, of Raeford, NC, died on Monday, August 7th, in her home. Mrs. Ropp was born on June 5, 1927, in Lancaster, South Carolina, to the late Reverend Walter Kirkpatrick Beaty and Sarah Wilson Beaty. She was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, the Reverend Doctor John Conway Ropp, her daughter, Sarah Cecelia Ropp, her granddaughter, Elizabeth Cashwell McNeill, and her brothers, Walter K. Beaty, Jr., and James Wilson Beaty.

Paul Edward Thomas

April 10, 1947 ~ August 6, 2023

Rev. Francis B Leggett

September 19, 1963 ~ August 10, 2023

Rev. Francis Leggett, age 59 transitioned from earth to glory on August 10, 2023. He leaves to cherish his loving memories his companion of twenty six years, Teresa Kemp; son, Christopher Laronta Leggett (Shameca); father, Franklin Levi Leggett; sisters: Debbie Douglas, Sheree Douglas (Dwight), Nena N. Leggett; brothers: Juan Leggett (Jessica), Don Leggett (Alice), Michael McIntosh; seven grandchildren, one great grandchild along with a host of aunts, uncles, family and friends. Francis (Shorty) will be immensely missed.

After graduating from Alleghany District High School, Sue attended Ferrum College. She started her early adult life becoming a model and a very successful sales representative. She was a long-time resident of Raeford, NC. During these years, Sue became very active with the Hoke-Raeford Museum, organizing and conducting Colonial Days, and serving for many years as the museum's treasurer. She was very active in the United Methodist Church for over 30 years, participating in many events and held several leadership positions. First, as Chair of the Youth Council, serving on the Pastor-Perrish Relations Committee, and for many years as the Chair of Parsonage Committee. She was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) award for "Excellence in Community Service" and also was presented the "Wonderful Women of Hoke" award for her many contributions to the community by the Raeford- Hoke Library. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the general fund of Raeford United Methodist Church. Thank you in advance.

Mrs. Ropp grew up in Mt. Holly, NC. During her senior year of high school, she moved with her family to Columbia, SC, where her father became pastor of Arsenal Hill Presbyterian Church.

Mrs. Ropp graduated from Dreher High School in 1944. She graduated from Erskine College in Due West, SC, in 1948, having majored in Bible and Social Studies and serving as President of Women’s Student Government her senior year. She married John Ropp in June of that same year. They lived in Columbia until 1957 when he was called into the ministry and they moved with their four children to Atlanta where he attended Columbia Theological Seminary. Mrs. Ropp served as President of the Seminary Wives’ Club during her husband’s senior year.

As Dr. Ropp served pastorates in Iva and Conway, SC, and in Raeford, Mrs. Ropp served as a teacher and school librarian. She retired in 1989 as librarian at Hoke County High School in Raeford.

Mrs. Ropp is survived by her children: John Conway Ropp, Jr. and his wife Linda of Columbia, SC; Robert Beaty Ropp and his wife Kathy of Conway, SC; and Miriam Ropp McNeill and her husband, Neal of Raeford; grandchildren: Sarah Ropp Cathcart and her husband Robert of Hickory Tavern, SC; John Conway Ropp III, and his wife Caroline of Hartsville, SC; Emily Ropp Terry and her husband Joe of Mt. Pleasant, SC; and Katharine Beaty McNeill of Raeford; great-grandchildren: Robert Cathcart III and his wife, Campbell, Sarah Anna “Sally”, Margaret, and Charlie Cathcart; Elizabeth, John IV, David, Mari Grace, and Sarah Catherine Ropp; and Anna, Joseph III, and Will Terry; and a sister-in-law, Anita Law Beaty of Charleston, SC.

The family wishes to thank Liberty Hospice for their kindness and excellent care of Mrs. Ropp.

Memorials may be made to Raeford Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 1570, 128 W. Edinborough Avenue, Raeford, NC 28376.

Mr. Paul E. Thomas age, 76 transitioned from earth to glory on August 6, 2023. He leaves to cherish his loving memories his children: Kathy D. Campbell, Paul A. Thomas, Robert Torrence; sisters: Mary Pooler, Janetta Robinson, Della Robinson, Dorethea Stokes; brothers: Charles Thomas, Andrew Thomas, Ernest Thomas; six grandchildren, eight great grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. Paul will be greatly missed.

Annie McCall

August 17, 1932 ~ August 11, 2023

Ms. Annie McCall age, 90 went home to rest with her heavenly father on August 11, 2023.

Phillip Moore Jr.

December 18, 1941 ~ August 2, 2023

Mr. Phillip Moore Jr. age, 81 transitioned from earth to glory on August 2, 2023. He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Margaret M. Moore; children: Gene (Chris) Moore, Felicia Moore, nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. Phillip will be greatly missed.

STATE & NATION

Biden’s reelection bid faces vulnerabilities in wake of special counsel appointment

The Associated Press NEW YORK

— As he gears up for reelection, President Joe Biden is already facing questions about his ability to convince voters that the economy is performing well. There’s skepticism about the 80-year-old president’s ability to manage a second term. And on Friday, Biden faced a fresh setback when Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel to probe his son, Hunter.

Biden’s challenges pale in comparison with his predecessor and possible future rival, Donald Trump, who is facing three criminal indictments, with additional charges expected soon. But the appointment of the special counsel was nonetheless a reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Biden as he wages another election campaign in a deeply uncertain political climate. There was little immediate sign that Garland’s decision meaningfully changed Biden’s standing within his party. If anything, it underscored the unprecedented nature of the next election. Rather than a battle of ideas waged on the traditional campaign trail, the next push for the presidency may be shaped by sudden legal twists in courtrooms from Washington to Delaware and Miami.

“Prior to Trump, this would be a big deal,” New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said of Friday’s announcement. “Now, I don’t think it means anything. Trump has made everyone so numb to this stuff.”

Referring to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, Buckley added, “Because of how dismissive MAGA America is to the very real crimes of Trump and his family, it has numbed the minds of swing voters and Democratic voters or activists who would normally be fully engaged and outraged.”

Polling has consistently shown that Democratic voters were not excited about Biden’s reelection even before Garland’s announcement.

Just 47% of Democrats wanted

Biden to run again in 2024, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in April. Democrats’ enthusiasm for Biden’s presidential campaign has consistently trailed behind Republicans’ enthusiasm for Trump’s: 55% of Republicans said they wanted Trump to run again in the APNORC poll. And Biden’s approval rating in polling by Gallup stood at 41% on average over the last three months. Only Jimmy Carter notched a lower average rating in Gallup’s polling at this point in his

presidency, while ratings for Trump were about the same at 43%.

Garland announced Friday that he was naming David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in Delaware, as the special counsel in the Hunter Biden investigation. It comes as plea deal talks involving tax and gun charges in the case Weiss had already been probing hit an impasse.

The appointment of a special counsel ensures that Trump will not stand alone as the only presidential

US suicides hit an all-time high last year

The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 49,500 people took their own lives last year in the U.S., the highest number ever, according to new government data posted Thursday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which posted the numbers, has not yet calculated a suicide rate for the year, but available data suggests suicides are more common in the U.S. than at any time since the dawn of World War II.

“There’s something wrong. The number should not be going up,” said Christina Wilbur, a 45-yearold Florida woman whose son shot himself to death last year.

“My son should not have died,” she said. “I know it’s complicated, I really do. But we have to be able to do something. Something that we’re not doing. Because whatever we’re doing right now is not helping.”

Experts caution that suicide is complicated, and that recent increases might be driven by a range of factors, including higher rates of depression and limited availability of mental health services.

But a main driver is the growing availability of guns, said Jill Harkavy-Friedman, senior vice president of research at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Suicide attempts involving guns end in death far more often than

those with other means, and gun sales have boomed — placing firearms in more and more homes.

A recent Johns Hopkins University analysis used preliminary 2022 data to calculate that the nation’s overall gun suicide rate rose last year to an all-time high. For the first time, the gun suicide rate among Black teens surpassed the rate among white teens, the researchers found.

“I don’t know if you can talk about suicide without talking about firearms,” Harkavy-Friedman said.

U.S. suicides steadily rose from the early 2000s until 2018, when the national rate hit its highest level since 1941. That year saw about 48,300 suicide deaths — or 14.2 for every 100,000 Americans.

The rate fell slightly in 2019. It dropped again in 2020, during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some experts tied that to a phenomenon seen in the early stages of wars and natural disasters, when people pull together and support each other.

But in 2021, suicides rose 4%.

Last year, according to the new data, the number jumped by more than 1,000, to 49,449 — about a 3% increase vs. the year before. The provisional data comes from U.S. death certificates and is considered almost complete, but it may change slightly as death information is reviewed in the months ahead.

The largest increases were seen in older adults. Deaths rose nearly 7% in people ages 45 to 64, and more than 8% in people 65 and older. White men, in particular, have very high rates, the CDC said.

Many middle-aged and elderly people experience problems like losing a job or losing a spouse, and it’s important to reduce stigma and other obstacles to them getting assistance, said Dr. Debra Houry, the CDC’s chief medical officer.

Suicides in adults ages 25 to 44 grew about 1%. The new data indicates that suicide became the second leading cause of death in that age group in 2022, up from No. 4 in 2021. Despite the grim statistics, some say there is reason for optimism. A national crisis line launched a year ago, meaning anyone in the U.S. can dial 988 to reach mental health specialists.

The CDC is expanding a suicide program to fund more prevention work in different communities. And there’s growing awareness of the issue and that it’s OK to ask for help,

candidate grappling with the fallout of a serious criminal investigation in the midst of the 2024 campaign season.

Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, has already obtained thousands of pages of financial records from various members of the Biden family through subpoenas to the Treasury Department and various financial institutions as part of a congressional probe. He released a statement Friday accusing Garland of “trying to stonewall congressional oversight.” Comer vowed “to follow the Biden family’s money trail.”

Back in New Hampshire, Buckley acknowledged that voters are not excited about Biden’s reelection.

“But they’re really not excited about Trump,” he said. “There’s a seriousness around this election. People can say they’re not excited (about Biden). They can say, ‘Oh, he shouldn’t run again.’ But the reality is that he’s the only alternative to Trump.”

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how closely key voters are paying attention.

A Marquette Law School Poll conducted last month found that about three-quarters of Americans had heard about Hunter Biden’s agreement to plead guilty to misdemeanor charges of tax evasion and a gun charge. Republicans were slightly more likely than Democrats to say they have heard “a lot” about the topic, with independents being much less likely to be paying attention.

health officials say. There was a more than 8% drop in suicides in people ages 10 to 24 in 2022. That may be due to increased attention to youth mental health issues and a push for schools and others to focus on the problem, CDC officials said.

But even the smaller number masks tragedy for families.

Christina Wilbur lost her 21-yearold son, Cale, on June 16 last year. He died in her home in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.

Cale Wilbur had lost two friends and an uncle to suicide and had been dealing with depression. On that horrible morning, he and his mother were having an argument. She had confronted him about his drug use, his mother said. She left his bedroom and when she returned he had a gun.

“I was begging him not too, and to calm down,” she said. “It looked like he relaxed for a second, but then he killed himself.”

She describes her life since as black hole of emptiness and sorrow, and had found it hard to talk to friends or even family about Cale.

“There’s just this huge 6-foot-2 hole, everywhere,” she said. “Everything reminds me of what’s missing.”

It’s hard to find professionals to help, and those that are around can be expensive, she said. She turned to support groups, including an organization called Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors that operates a 24/7 online forum.

“There’s nothing like being with people who get it,” she said.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden speaks during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., April 29, 2023.

AP PHOTO

In this Nov. 20, 2015 file photo, a man walks along a trail during sunset near Manhattan, Kan.

Maintenance work scheduled for Forsyth County bridge

Winston-Salem

N.C. Department of Transportation contract crews will perform maintenance work on the bridge at northbound U.S. 52 over the Southern Railroad Monday, weather permitting. Travel will be reduced to one lane on northbound U.S. 52 near Moore-RJR interchange from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Work is expected to be complete this week.

Drivers should expect delays in the area, slow down and obey all signs posted in the work zone.

Folwell presents check to Stokes County nursing facility

King State Treasurer Dale Folwell was in Stokes County on Thursday, Aug. 10, to meet with officials at a Medicarecertified skilled nursing facility, and present them with a check for money that had gotten sidetracked.

“Any day we can reunite people and businesses with their money is a good day. Being able to return money to Universal Health Care/King is especially gratifying because of the hard work its employees perform in assisting one of the most vulnerable segments of North Carolina’s population,” Treasurer Folwell said.

During a routine review of data in NCCash.com, tTreasur staff identified $3,800 belonging to the 96-bed skilled nursing facility.

Through May 31, UPD has paid 174,466 claims statewide totaling over $99.6 million from NCCash. Part of that total has been disbursed through the NCCash Matchprogram, a no-hassle, expedited system that eliminated paperwork processing. As of May 31, DST paid 99,551 NC Cash Match claims totaling $26.3 million.

US commits to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wild, settling lawsuit

The Associated Press

THE U.S. GOVERNMENT will settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina, where nearly three dozen of the canine species are believed to still run free.

The conservation groups sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2020 after it stopped releasing captive-bred wolves. Eastern North Carolina is the only place in the world where they roam wild outside of zoos and wildlife refuges.

The Southern Environmental Law Center filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Red Wolf Coalition, Defenders of Wildlife and the Animal Welfare Institute. A settlement agreement was reached Wednesday, according to documents filed in U.S. District Court in North Carolina.

“For 25 years, North Carolina was home to one of the most successful predator reintroductions in the world,” Ramona McGee, a Southern

Environmental Law Center attorney, said in a statement. “This settlement puts us on a path to restoring the red wolf to its rightful place as a celebrated success story.”

Red wolves once occupied much of the Eastern U.S. but were driven to near extinction by trapping, hunting and habitat loss before they were reintroduced to North Carolina in 1987. Their range is limited to five North Carolina counties. Scientists at zoos and other sites have maintained a captive population of nearly 300 wolves in recent years.

After red wolves were reintroduced, the state’s wild population grew beyond 100 and remained stable through 2012.

Wolf numbers were bolstered by releases of captive-born pups and sterilization of coyotes that competed for space. But those approaches were halted in 2015 amid pressure from conservative politicians and landowners who deemed wolves a nuisance.

Red wolves are in an area dominated by farms and private land. At

least 96 red wolves died of gunshot wounds over the decades.

Some landowners have said that the wolves have made it harder to fight coyotes. A federal judge in 2014 banned night hunting of coyotes in red wolf territory because the canines are easily mixed up.

By the time conservation groups filed their 2020 lawsuit, they said there could be as few as seven red wolves living in the wild. The groups argued that federal wildlife officials violated the Endangered Species Act through actions that included halting the release of captive-bred wolves in 2015.

The lawsuit prompted a federal judge in 2021 to order the Fish and Wildlife Service to produce a plan to bolster the wild wolves’ numbers as the lawsuit continued.

U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle noted in his order that the conservation groups were likely to succeed, while demonstrating that “extinction is a very real possibility.”

According to the settlement agreement, the Fish and Wildlife

Service will develop and publish red wolf release plans for a period of eight years. The plans will include “metrics that can be used to measure performance.”

The agency wrote that it “acknowledges the importance of the Eastern North Carolina red wolf population” and committed to managing in a way that’s consistent with the Endangered Species Act. As of June, the Fish and Wildlife Service said there 16 known or collared red wolves living in the wild, while estimating the total wild population to be 32 to 34. There were 278 red wolves in the captive population.

Johanna Hamburger, a senior attorney with the Animal Welfare Institute, said in a statement Wednesday that the agreement “pulls wild red wolves back from the brink of extinction.”

“When we filed this lawsuit, scientists warned that if the (Fish and Wildlife Service) continued down that path, red wolves could be extinct in the wild by 2024,” she said.

District approves purchase of new activity buses

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education met

Tuesday, August 8, with multiple informational sessions on district programs and initiatives on the agenda.

The board was first presented with a report on the market share of students in public schools within Forsyth County and other similar urban districts.

“We looked at the percentage of students in Forsyth County that choose to attend public schools, and then we asked the question for those students who didn’t at-

tend public schools in Forsyth County, where did they go?” said Chief Accountability Officer Andrew Kraft. “We also asked that question through the lens of, ‘How do we compare to other large, urban districts.’

According to Kraft, about 80% of the school-aged children in Forsyth County attend public schools, which is the highest of other similar counties such as Mecklenburg, Wake, Guilford and Durham.

In addition, the report showed that about 5% of students attend charter schools, about 8% are homeschooled, and about 8% attend private schools.

The board then approved a request for the purchase of additional activity buses. We’ve been working with our athletics team about the various

teams we have out there, and we also have OCS and some other smaller programs that utilize our activity buses and what we found out is that we really needed some additional smaller buses in our fleet,” said Chief Operations Officer Lauren Richards. “We have a few that are out there positioned at Carter and a couple of other schools, but we do not have very many. We have been looking at 14 and 18-passenger school buses and also buses that have lift capability to support our EC students throughout the district.”

The board approved the purchase of two 14-seat buses which do not require CDLs to drive.

The board was also presented with an update on the Restore, Reset and Restart Program.

Concerns over out-of-school suspension program raised by Board of Education

W FIFTH ST on 8/5/2023

♦ Blue, Justin Matthewlee (M/33)

Arrest on chrg of 1) Fail To Register - Sex Offender Registration (F) and 2) Fail To Register - Sex

Offender Registration (F), at 201 N Church St, Winston Salem, NC, on 8/3/2023 19:11.

♦ Bradford, Daniel Thomas (M/27)

Arrest on chrg of 1) Drugs-poss

BOE from page 1

“This program is designed to serve our middle and high school students who have received a level 3-5 consequence resulting in them receiving an out-of-school suspension,” said Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Fredricca Stokes. “This program would allow students to be in a safe environment; it will help parents out and give them an option for students to be able to attend this program while they have been out of school suspended, and it will also allow students to continue to work on their academic supports.”

According to the plan, R3 staff would assist students academically and socially to increase their self-esteem, conflict resolution skills and build on positive behavior for a successful transition back to their base school. R3 staff would also work with the base

The Barack Obama cover-up

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama.

LAST WEEK, Tablet released a fascinating conversation with historian David Garrow, author of a massive unauthorized biography of former President Barack Obama in his early years titled “Rising Stars.” By all rights, the book should have been a massive hit upon its release in 2017. Instead, it underperformed. The revelations contained therein never hit the mainstream. And that simple fact, in and of itself, demonstrates a simple reality of the modern political era: The entire press apparatus has been dedicated, since at least 2008, to the proposition that Obama had to be protected from all possible damage.

Garrow’s book carried multiple bombshells for Obama. Obama’s first autobiography — the egotist has already written several — “Dreams From My Father” told a story about how he broke up from a white girlfriend in his Chicago years over her failure to understand his desire for racial solidarity with black America. Actually, as Garrow’s book relates, the couple broke up because Obama refused to disown black antisemitism. Furthermore, as the book uncovers, Obama wrote letters to a girlfriend in which he “repeatedly fantasizes about making love to men.”

These are incredible allegations, to say the least. They were reported in the book. But as David Samuels of Tablet observes, the media were shockingly remiss in covering any of these stories: “’Rising Star’ highlights a remarkable lack of curiosity on the part of mainstream reporters and institutions about a man who almost instantaneously was treated less like a politician and more like the idol of an inter-elite cult.”

That was true in 2008, when the media steadfastly refused to take seriously reports about Obama’s attendance at an openly racist and antisemitic church for two decades. And it’s true in 2023, when the media still refuse to cover the fact that a huge number of President Joe Biden’s closest aides are

Sched Ii (F), 2) Possession Marijuana (M), 3) Weap-poss By Felon (F), 4) Ccw (M), and 5) Resisting Arrest (M), at Stokes Co Jail, on 8/2/2023 12:50.

♦ Caudill, Jerry Jonas (M/46) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assault-simple (M), 2) Assault-simple (M), 3) Assaultsimple (M), 4) Breaking/larc-felony (F), and 5) Larceny After B&e (F), at 1189 Reynolds Rd, Lewisville, NC, on 8/4/2023 23:30.

♦ COOK, LARRY JOVAN was arrested on a charge of AWIK/ NO INJURY at 4998 UNIVERSITY PW/BETHABARA PARK BV on 8/6/2023

♦ COUTHEN, CARY DEWAYNE was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 3131 CARVER SCHOOL RD on 8/4/2023

♦ Davis, Arnoglia Shenette (F/33)

school to transition students back and would conduct follow-up visits to check on their progress as well.

The proposed plan would start on September 8 and would run from 7:25 a.m. to 2:05 p.m. at the Fulton YMCA, although transportation would not be available in the first quarter due to staffing issues.

However, concerns were raised by multiple members of the board on it not being a centralized location, how they were already having staffing when it came to their schools, worry over the ability to separate middle and high school students and various other topics.

The presentation was just to take a look at the project, and a vote was not taken on the plan. The board was then presented with an update on the Student Code of Character, Conduct and Support.

“Our code really stands on the

Arrest on chrg of 1) 90-95asd2 S&d Other Sched Ii (F) and 2) NdlSuspended / Revoked (M), at 3698 Peters Creek Pw/bridgton Rd, Winston-salem, NC, on 8/4/2023

12:41.

♦ DUKES, RICHARD ISAIAH was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 2825 ROWELL ST on 8/4/2023

♦ FREEMAN, MICHAEL ANTHONY was arrested on a charge of ADW - INFLICT INJURY at 2622 NEW WALKERTOWN RD on 8/4/2023

♦ FREEMAN, MICHEAL DAVID was arrested on a charge of IMPAIRED DRIVING DWI at SB US 52/RAMP US 421 SOUTH on 8/5/2023

♦ GRIFFIN, ALEXANDER CLAY was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 1670 WOODS RD on 8/5/2023

foundation of providing equitable practices so that we’re supporting our schools and ensuring that it’s proactive and positive interventions and supporting those social and emotional skills that they need,” said Director of Behavior Support and Interventions Shannon Dobson

According to Dobson, WSFCS is aiming to increase equity through standardization of promotion/prevention practices, disciplinary response cycle and restorative interventions, as well as perceptions of school as a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment.

On the other side, WSFCS is aiming to decrease disciplinary responses resulting in lost instructional time, disproportional application of disciplinary responses, number of students with repeated unskillful behaviors, and discretionary language to describe unwanted behaviors.

Obama’s closest political allies. Obama resides in Washington, D.C.; all of the people who made policy for him now make policy for Biden. And yet nobody talks about the Obama influence in the current White House.

All of this is part of a broader pact on the part of every major apparatus in American life to mirror Obama’s perceptions of the world. In Obama’s own mind, he was a world-historical figure; that’s why, in 2010, when he experienced a rather predictable shellacking in a midterm election, he responded by suggesting that his opposition was actually motivated by vicious racism and brutal bigotry. The media mirrored that perspective; so did entertainment; so did tech companies. The immaculate, solid wall of support for Obama’s intersectional coalition is intimately connected to direct allegiance from the movers and shakers toward the Obama persona.

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama. Garrow concludes about Obama: “He has no interest in building the Democratic Party as an institution. I think that’s obvious. And I don’t think he had any truly deep, meaningful policy commitments other than the need to feel and to be perceived as victorious, as triumphant.” But that victory — that triumph — came at the expense of the American people, who were promised a racial conciliator and a man of honor by a media invested in that lie. When the truth materialized and our institutions continued to perpetuate the lie, our institutions collapsed. We live in the era of Barack Obama still.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

♦ Harville, Daniel Lee (M/38) Arrest on chrg of Cruelty To Animals - Conveying Animals In A Cruel Manner, M (M), at 130 Westdale Av, Winston-salem, NC, on 8/3/2023

11:17.

♦ Hemric, Brian Edgar (M/50) Arrest on chrg of 1) Drug Trafficking (F), 2) Drug Trafficking (F), 3) Drug Trafficking (F), and 4) Drug Trafficking (F), at 301 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 8/2/2023

15:30.

♦ HENRY, COREY JEROME was arrested on a charge of VANDREAL PROPERTY at 321 W FOURTH ST on 8/6/2023

♦ Lankford, Shannon Denise (F/34) Arrest on chrg of Assault-simple (M), at 8013 Cain Wood Ct, Walkertown, NC, on 8/3/2023

11:18.

One of the key changes with the model is that now, each behavior violation only has one level of consequence in order to reduce subjectiveness, but also still has the option to mitigate down or aggravate up based on each case is available for administration.

However, there were still concerns among board members about the perceived ineffectiveness of the new code.

“I believe wholeheartedly in restorative practices,” said board member Sabrina Coone. “I was a part of the parent advisory panel when we began to implement the code, and I sat with parents in sessions and I listened to white and black and brown parents of all socio-economic backgrounds ask for accountability with our code and with our behavior for our students. I have continued to hear stakeholders throughout the community say, ‘What has happened?’

♦ Leashomb, Cynthia Day (F/34) Arrest on chrg of 1) Drug Trafficking (F), 2) Drug Trafficking (F), 3) Drug Trafficking (F), 4) Drug Trafficking (F), and 5) Drug Trafficking (F), at 301 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 8/2/2023 13:48.

♦ LEWIS, TREVOR ANTONIO was arrested on a charge of PEEPING at 1645 TADMORE ST on 8/6/2023

♦ MARTIN, ROMONICA MONIQUE was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 4959 TRENT HILL DR on 8/5/2023

♦ Meghootonge, Tekletafari J Tschaka (M/36) Arrest on chrg of Assault On Female (M), at 216 North St, Lewisville, NC, on 8/7/2023 05:02.

“We have had a lack of accountability, both with adults and students and even our parents. So at what point are we going to actually do real accountability so we can get to real restoration? Because I still don’t feel like we have done anything with that. I feel like we talk a lot about it, but we still don’t have what our educators need in the building to allow them to do what they need to do because no one is holding the adults accountable.”

Following the informational sessions, the board then approved the 2023-24 Title I application, the Annual Head Start MOU and the continuation of the contract with UVA Darden/Curry Partnership for Leaders in Education. The Winston Staffing Solutions Contract for Child Nutrition Temporary Staffing Services failed to receive any votes in support of it. The WSFCS Board of Education will next meet August 22.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

SIDELINE REPORT

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Chadwell: Death of Liberty freshman was not football-related

Lynchburg, Virginia

First-year Liberty coach

Jamey Chadwell says the death of a freshman football player was not football-related. Chadwell says the team learned of the passing of 19-year-old Tajh Boyd of Chesapeake, Virginia, on Saturday. He declined to give further details about Boyd’s death, saying he wanted to respect the privacy of the player’s family. Chadwell says the team held a service for Boyd on Sunday, and that rain fell following the service. After that, he said, a rainbow appeared over the stadium.

GOLF

Auburn grad student

Schofill wins U.S.

Women’s Amateur

Los Angeles

Megan Schofill won the U.S. Women’s Amateur on Sunday at Bel-Air Country Club, beating Latanna Stone 4 and 3 in the 36hole final. The 22-year-old Schofill, from Monticello, Florida, is a graduate student entering her fifth season at Auburn. The 21-year-old Stone, from Riverview, Florida, is entering her fifth year at LSU. After Stone won the par-4 24th with a birdie, Schofill took the par-4 25th and par-5 26th with birdies for a 4-up advantage. They halved the next five holes with pars, Stone won the par-5 32nd and the match ended on the par-4 33rd when Stone’s 5-foot par putt lipped out.

NFL

Falcons cut former starting LB Walker

Flowery Branch, Ga.

The Atlanta Falcons waived 2022 starting linebacker Mykal Walker on Sunday, two days after he started and had four tackles in the Falcons’ 19-3 preseason win at Miami. Falcons coach Arthur Smith did not start his firstteam players against the Dolphins. On Sunday, the team signed linebacker Frank Ginda, the 2023 USFL defensive player of the year. The Falcons did not announce an injury to Walker in Friday night’s game, but the 2020 fourth-round draft pick apparently was unavailable for the remainder of training camp. Walker had 107 tackles with two interceptions and one sack in 16 games, including 12 starts, in 2022.

BASKETBALL

Brunson helps U.S. beat Spain in World Cup tuneup

Malaga, Spain

The U.S. World Cup basketball team got its first big test of the summer Sunday, and a perfect shooting night from Jalen Brunson helped ensure the Americans passed. Brunson was 9 for 9 from the field on the way to a team-best 21 points and the U.S. pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat Spain 98-88 in a pre-World Cup exhibition between tournament favorites. Spain is the No. 1-ranked team in the world according to FIBA; the U.S. is No. 2.

Cavaliers player wounded in deadly attack returns for 2023 season

The Associated Press CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia running back Mike Hollins knows he will never be the same and admits that the position of football on his priorities list “has shrunk.” He still can’t wait to run onto the field with his Cavaliers brothers for their opener this season.

“I can only imagine the emotions that’ll be flowing through my body.

I just — I literally can’t. I have no words because the spring game hit me like a sack of rocks, and I didn’t expect it at all, so I can only imagine,” he said. “I’m ready, though. I’m ready for it.”

Hollins, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of two survivors of a shooting last November that left three teammates dead. He was shot in the back, needed several surgeries and spent a week in the hospi-

tal before beginning a long rehabilitation.

The shootings, which also left student Marlee Morgan injured, rocked the team and the community, and it caused the Cavaliers to cancel their final two games.

Hollins uplifted his teammates when he returned for spring practices four months later even though he wasn’t cleared for full contact yet. That came about midway through the 15 sessions, and he scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the spring game.

He celebrated the touchdown by placing the ball on the name of D’Sean Perry, painted in the end zone along with those of Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler, those killed on a school bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C. A former Virginia player, Christopher Jones Jr., is accused of the shootings and awaiting trial.

Throughout his recovery, which he admits is more complete physically than mentally, Hollins “has been a superhero,” roommate and fellow running back Perris Jones said. “Experiencing what he experienced and carrying himself with as much grace and perseverance as he does is inspirational to see day in and day out. His spirit is truly unbroken, and he embodies that every day.”

Hollins knows no one would have questioned him, or any of last year’s team, had they decided not to play again or to move to another school. He also knows to keep things in perspective as they play to honor their fallen teammates.

“Us being here and being able to play again and touch the field and just come together as a team is doing that legacy justice in itself. We don’t have to go out and try to ... go undefeated or win a champion-

Nowitzki, Gasol, Parker give international flavor to Basketball HOF enshrinement

The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Fans waved a German flag and chanted Dirk Nowitzki’s name when the former Dallas Mavericks big man walked the red carpet into Symphony Hall on Saturday night for the Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony.

Tony Parker’s fans whooped it up when he took the stage to lead off the proceedings. “There are a lot of French people in town. Sorry,” the San Antonio Spurs point guard said.

Spain was well-represented, too, with Pau Gasol shouting out his national team — “mi familia” — before joining what may be the greatest international class of inductees in the Springfield shrine’s history.

“I want to give a special mention to those first Europeans, who came here, across the ocean, who took a chance,” said Gasol, who fell in love with the sport when the 1992 Olympics were held in his hometown, Barcelona. “I was 12. It changed my life. The Dream Team showed us how basketball could be played.”

Like Gasol, Parker was won over by the 1992 Summer Olympics, when the Hall of Famer-laden Americans drubbed the French national by 50 points. But when it came time to play in the European

championships, Gasol and Spain were often in the way.

“Sometimes I wish Pau Gasol was not born,” Parker quipped.

The Class of 2023 brought a distinctly international flavor to the basketball hall.

Nowitzki was the first European-born player to win the NBA MVP award, in 2007. Parker’s NBA Finals MVP award that year was the first for a European. In 2002, Gasol was the NBA’s first in-

ternational rookie of the year. The Spurs were well represented, too, led by longtime coach and five-time NBA champion Gregg Popovich, and Parker, the point guard on four of those title-winning teams. Becky Hammon, who after a career in the WNBA joined the Spurs as the first woman to serve as a full-time NBA assistant coach, was also honored. Gasol played his last two healthy seasons with the Spurs.

ship,” he said. That desire to honor their teammates has been cited by several players that decided to return, including defensive lineman Chico Bennett and Perris Jones.

“It’s a shame it has to happen in this way,” Bennett said, “but now that we’re given a platform, we’re going to make the most of it. I look forward to being able to do that and honoring them through our play and doing that to the best of our ability.”

When Hollins suits up for Virginia’s game against Tennessee in Nashville on Sept. 2, he said, he will be “carrying something with me.”

“It’ll always weigh on you,” he said. “There will never be a day where you won’t remember it or feel something missing from your heart when thinking about it.” Getting back on the field, though, sure might help.

“Coach Pop — it starts with him,” Parker said.

In her speech, Hammond broke down when thanking Popovich.

“I know you weren’t trying to be courageous when you hired me,” she said. “You changed the trajectory of my life, and so many other girls, and young women.”

Undrafted by the WNBA, Hammon went on to be a six-time AllStar before joining Popovich in San Antonio. She coached the Aces to a WNBA championship last season.

“The amount of times I hear ‘no’ or had a door shut was the amount of times I was going to go through a chimney or bust through a window to find a way,” Hammon said. “I wouldn’t change the hard parts, because the hard parts were necessary to build the courage for whatever comes next.”

Others enshrined include Dwyane Wade — a key piece of three NBA championship teams in Miami — and former NC State coach Jim Valvano, who led the Wolfpack to the 1983 NCAA title and went on to be a broadcaster and advocate for cancer research. Valvano was inducted posthumously.

Rounding out the class were the silver medal-winning 1976 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team; former Purdue coach Gene Keady, a seven-time Big Ten coach of the year; former Texas A&M women’s coach Gary Blair, who took two teams to the Final Four; longtime coach at Amherst and twotime Division III national champion David Hixon; and Gene Bess — who won 1,300 games as a junior college coach at Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

AP PHOTO

Virginia running back Mike Hollins, pictured last season against UNC, was wounded in a shooting attack last November that left three of his teammates dead.

AP PHOTO

Gregg Popovich speaks during his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as presenters David Robinson, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, from left, listen Saturday in Springfield, Massachusetts.

STATE & NATION

Biden’s reelection bid faces vulnerabilities in wake of special counsel appointment

The Associated Press NEW YORK — As he gears up for reelection, President Joe Biden is already facing questions about his ability to convince voters that the economy is performing well. There’s skepticism about the 80-year-old president’s ability to manage a second term. And on Friday, Biden faced a fresh setback when Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed a special counsel to probe his son, Hunter.

Biden’s challenges pale in comparison with his predecessor and possible future rival, Donald Trump, who is facing three criminal indictments, with additional charges expected soon. But the appointment of the special counsel was nonetheless a reminder of the vulnerabilities facing Biden as he wages another election campaign in a deeply uncertain political climate. There was little immediate sign that Garland’s decision meaningfully changed Biden’s standing within his party. If anything, it underscored the unprecedented nature of the next election. Rather than a battle of ideas waged on the traditional campaign trail, the next push for the presidency may be shaped by sudden legal twists in courtrooms from Washington to Delaware and Miami.

“Prior to Trump, this would be a big deal,” New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said of Friday’s announcement. “Now, I don’t think it means anything. Trump has made everyone so numb to this stuff.”

Referring to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, Buckley added, “Because of how dismissive MAGA America is to the very real crimes of Trump and his family, it has numbed the minds of swing voters and Democratic voters or activists who would normally be fully engaged and outraged.”

Polling has consistently shown that Democratic voters were not excited about Biden’s reelection even before Garland’s announcement.

Just 47% of Democrats wanted

Biden to run again in 2024, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in April. Democrats’ enthusiasm for Biden’s presidential campaign has consistently trailed behind Republicans’ enthusiasm for Trump’s: 55% of Republicans said they wanted Trump to run again in the APNORC poll. And Biden’s approval rating in polling by Gallup stood at 41% on average over the last three months. Only Jimmy Carter notched a lower average rating in Gallup’s polling at this point in his

presidency, while ratings for Trump were about the same at 43%.

Garland announced Friday that he was naming David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in Delaware, as the special counsel in the Hunter Biden investigation. It comes as plea deal talks involving tax and gun charges in the case Weiss had already been probing hit an impasse.

The appointment of a special counsel ensures that Trump will not stand alone as the only presidential

US suicides hit an all-time high last year

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — About 49,500 people took their own lives last year in the U.S., the highest number ever, according to new government data posted Thursday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which posted the numbers, has not yet calculated a suicide rate for the year, but available data suggests suicides are more common in the U.S. than at any time since the dawn of World War II.

“There’s something wrong. The number should not be going up,” said Christina Wilbur, a 45-yearold Florida woman whose son shot himself to death last year.

“My son should not have died,” she said. “I know it’s complicated, I really do. But we have to be able to do something. Something that we’re not doing. Because whatever we’re doing right now is not helping.”

Experts caution that suicide is complicated, and that recent increases might be driven by a range of factors, including higher rates of depression and limited availability of mental health services.

But a main driver is the growing availability of guns, said Jill Harkavy-Friedman, senior vice president of research at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Suicide attempts involving guns end in death far more often than

those with other means, and gun sales have boomed — placing firearms in more and more homes.

A recent Johns Hopkins University analysis used preliminary 2022 data to calculate that the nation’s overall gun suicide rate rose last year to an all-time high. For the first time, the gun suicide rate among Black teens surpassed the rate among white teens, the researchers found.

“I don’t know if you can talk about suicide without talking about firearms,” Harkavy-Friedman said.

U.S. suicides steadily rose from the early 2000s until 2018, when the national rate hit its highest level since 1941. That year saw about 48,300 suicide deaths — or 14.2 for every 100,000 Americans.

The rate fell slightly in 2019. It dropped again in 2020, during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some experts tied that to a phenomenon seen in the early stages of wars and natural disasters, when people pull together and support each other.

But in 2021, suicides rose 4%.

Last year, according to the new data, the number jumped by more than 1,000, to 49,449 — about a 3% increase vs. the year before. The provisional data comes from U.S. death certificates and is considered almost complete, but it may change slightly as death information is reviewed in the months ahead.

The largest increases were seen in older adults. Deaths rose nearly 7% in people ages 45 to 64, and more than 8% in people 65 and older. White men, in particular, have very high rates, the CDC said.

Many middle-aged and elderly people experience problems like losing a job or losing a spouse, and it’s important to reduce stigma and other obstacles to them getting assistance, said Dr. Debra Houry, the CDC’s chief medical officer.

Suicides in adults ages 25 to 44 grew about 1%. The new data indicates that suicide became the second leading cause of death in that age group in 2022, up from No. 4 in 2021.

Despite the grim statistics, some say there is reason for optimism. A national crisis line launched a year ago, meaning anyone in the U.S. can dial 988 to reach mental health specialists.

The CDC is expanding a suicide program to fund more prevention work in different communities. And there’s growing awareness of the issue and that it’s OK to ask for help,

candidate grappling with the fallout of a serious criminal investigation in the midst of the 2024 campaign season.

Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, has already obtained thousands of pages of financial records from various members of the Biden family through subpoenas to the Treasury Department and various financial institutions as part of a congressional probe. He released a statement Friday accusing Garland of “trying to stonewall congressional oversight.” Comer vowed “to follow the Biden family’s money trail.”

Back in New Hampshire, Buckley acknowledged that voters are not excited about Biden’s reelection.

“But they’re really not excited about Trump,” he said. “There’s a seriousness around this election. People can say they’re not excited (about Biden). They can say, ‘Oh, he shouldn’t run again.’ But the reality is that he’s the only alternative to Trump.”

Meanwhile, it’s unclear how closely key voters are paying attention.

A Marquette Law School Poll conducted last month found that about three-quarters of Americans had heard about Hunter Biden’s agreement to plead guilty to misdemeanor charges of tax evasion and a gun charge. Republicans were slightly more likely than Democrats to say they have heard “a lot” about the topic, with independents being much less likely to be paying attention.

health officials say.

There was a more than 8% drop in suicides in people ages 10 to 24 in 2022. That may be due to increased attention to youth mental health issues and a push for schools and others to focus on the problem, CDC officials said.

But even the smaller number masks tragedy for families.

Christina Wilbur lost her 21-yearold son, Cale, on June 16 last year. He died in her home in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.

Cale Wilbur had lost two friends and an uncle to suicide and had been dealing with depression. On that horrible morning, he and his mother were having an argument. She had confronted him about his drug use, his mother said. She left his bedroom and when she returned he had a gun.

“I was begging him not too, and to calm down,” she said. “It looked like he relaxed for a second, but then he killed himself.”

She describes her life since as black hole of emptiness and sorrow, and had found it hard to talk to friends or even family about Cale.

“There’s just this huge 6-foot-2 hole, everywhere,” she said. “Everything reminds me of what’s missing.”

It’s hard to find professionals to help, and those that are around can be expensive, she said. She turned to support groups, including an organization called Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors that operates a 24/7 online forum.

“There’s nothing like being with people who get it,” she said.

AP PHOTO

President Joe Biden speaks during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., April 29, 2023.

AP PHOTO

In this Nov. 20, 2015 file photo, a man walks along a trail during sunset near Manhattan, Kan.

NC red wolves

A female red wolf emerges from her den sheltering newborn pups at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, on May 13, 2019. On Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, the U.S. government agreed to settle a lawsuit with conservation groups and commit to releasing more endangered red wolves into the wilds of North Carolina.

Strickland, Morgan, Pizzella to remain on Village of Pinehurst litigation committee

Country Club of North Carolina to host

two USGA amateur championships

Last Tuesday, the United States Golf Association (USGA) announced that

The Country Club of North Carolina (CCNC) in Pinehurst will be the host site for two upcoming USGA championships: the 2030 U.S. Senior Amateur and the 2037 U.S. Women’s Amateur. These will be the fourth and fifth USGA championships held at the club. The U.S. Senior Amateur is open to amateur golfers who have reached age 55 on or before the start of the championship and who have a Handicap Index® not exceeding 7.4.

The U.S. Women’s Amateur is open to female amateur golfers with a Handicap Index® not exceeding 5.4, and the winner earns an exception into the following year’s U.S. Women’s Open.

“The Country Club of North Carolina is honored to continue our long-standing relationship with the USGA as the host of these two prestigious amateur championships,” said Mark Reinemann, club president.

“CCNC has a deep and documented commitment to the amateur game, and we pride ourselves on creating a memorable experience for all competitors. We are excited to join an elite group of clubs to have hosted five separate USGA amateur championships and look forward to welcoming two new players into the group of great champions at CCNC.”

Pinehurst approves new advisory board members and policy

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

PINEHURST — The Village of Pinehurst Council met Tuesday, August 8, with various advisory board matters, road resurfacing and litigation concerns on the agenda. The council kicked off its regular meeting with appointments of four citizens to various Village boards and commissions.

The first was the appointment of Tom Brereton to the Pinehurst Neighborhood Advisory Committee representing Pinewild.

“We only had one applicant for Pinewild, but the good news is that Tom was the selection and designee from the Pinewild Property Owners Association, so we got the right guy,” said Village Manager Jeff Sanborn.

The second was the reappoint-

ment of Paul Sale to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.

“Paul has served on the BPAC for quite a number of years,” Sanborn said. “He knows a lot about the goings on and their plans. In that regard, I think it’s a great continuity move for us to reappoint.”

“I think the bike and greenways work is essential,” Sale said. “I think we’ve also progressed. We’ve figured out some good ways to spend the money so far as we never want to create a path by itself. Everything’s got to connect to another part of the ecosystem. We believe it’s also mission critical for the future of Pinehurst to have some sort of greenways and bike paths.”

The third was the reappointment of Richard Vincent to the Pinehurst Historic Preservation Commission for a two-year term.

Finally, the council approved the appointment of Tom Schroeder to the Pinehurst Planning and Zoning Board and Board of Adjustments.

“Over a period of several months,

we interviewed seven people for the position, and we’re very fortunate to be able to nominate Tom Schroeder to fill that position,” Sanborn said. “Tom has a lot of experience in this area. He’s also served six years on the [Historic Preservation Committee]. He brings a lot to the table for us, and so we’re pleased to nominate Tom.”

“As I look at these names here, there’s a common thread, and that is selfless service to this community,” said councilmember Lydia Boesch.

“I wish we had more like you all. So, thank you, all of you, for serving your community.”

The council also approved a resolution establishing an updated Advisory Board Appointment policy in order to allow council members to have more involvement in the selection process for candidates, namely requiring that nominees meet with council members before they are put on the agenda for approval to their positions.

“I think this is a significant step

Nominations open for upcoming state fair’s ‘Farm Family of the Day’

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — While the 2023

N.C. State Fair is still a couple of months away, competition applications and event planning are already in motion.

The fair officials have opened up nominations to honor 11 farm families to be recognized as the Tractor Supply Company’s “Farm Family of the Day.” This is the third year Tractor Supply Company has sponsored the program to celebrate farm families behind the state’s “$103.2 billion agriculture and agribusiness industry.”

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each

year,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a press release. “Thanks to Tractor Supply Company, we can help tell the story of our farmers because they are the individuals out there every day working to grow the food, fiber and fuel that we need to survive.”

Nominations and applications for Farm Family of the Day will be open through Sept. 15. Families will be Applications can be found at ncstatefair.org/2023/Attractions/FarmFamilyOfTheDay.htm.

Families receiving the award will get an N.C. State Fair gift basket containing fair tickets, ride passes and “additional swag” provided by Tractor Supply Company and the N.C. State Fair.

This year’s fair runs from Oct. 12-22 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. More information on the upcoming fair, competitions and events can be found at ncstatefair.org.

“The State Fair’s earliest beginnings sought to elevate the understanding of new agricultural practices and technology. Helping people make the connection between farming and the food that they enjoy is one of our top missions at the N.C. State Fair each year.”

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler

forward in including the councilmembers in the selection process than had existed before,” said Mayor Pro Tem Pat Pizzella.

“That was probably our key theme that Jane and I were working with was how do we get involvement with the council members earlier yet still also provide the staff with support in moving forward with their role to select people,” said council member Jeff Morgan.

The council then awarded the contract for the F24 Downtown Street Resurfacing Contract to Turner Asphalt.

“Normally, we put out one road resurfacing package every year and have one contractor, and we have a process where we select the roads,” said Public Services and Engineering Director Mike Apke. “But in this case, our downtown roads are up for resurfacing, and we have a need to resurface those, and we felt like this was such a specialized proj-

See PINEHURST, page 2

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Moore County:

August 17

Trivia Thursday at the Brewery 6pm

Thursday Night Music Bingo

7pm

Come out to James Creek Cider House for Music Bingo with Lauren! James Creek is located at 172 US Hwy 1 Bus. in Cameron. A food truck will be on site at 8!

August 18

Carthage Farmers Market

2pm – 6pm

CRIME

Robbins

ect. We had some time constraints on when we wanted to get this done that we put this out for bid simply by itself.”

The packaged roads include parts of Village Green Road West, Market Square, Chinquapin Road, Cherokee Road, Everette Road and Dogwood Road.

The bid amount was for $305,553, and work is projected to begin on September 25 and be completed by October 6.

The final action the council took was confirming Mayor John Strickland, Pizzella and Morgan as members of the Litigation Committee.

The committee initially was

composed of four council members: Strickland, Morgan, Pizzella and former councilmember Jane Hogeman – Boesch had recused herself to begin with as she supported one of the lawsuits that was against the Village.

Morgan had recently recused himself from the committee due to conflicts with running for mayor, and Pizzella planned to recuse himself in the near future as well due to the same reasons.

However, due to council member Hogeman’s passing, the committee was only being represented by one entity, Strickland, and so the council needed to make a decision on how they wanted to move forward.

“There are things that the re-

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tained attorneys for the Village need to present or need some direction on, so I don’t think we can continue to wait,” Strickland said. “I think we need to confirm who’s on this committee and get it done fast. I don’t think we have the luxury of waiting.”

Despite having priorly recused himself, Morgan accepted that for the time being, he would remain on the litigation committee, knowing that a better option was not available, and that membership would be readdressed following the election in November.

“When I first took this job and ran for it, I accepted the fact that no matter what comes down the road, my responsibility is to do what’s

best for the Village,” Morgan said. “I do, as I mentioned before, see where there is some conflict, but in my past experience, the issue has been not so much of having conflict; it’s how you manage conflict. To be able to ensure you’re making decisions that are appropriate for whoever you’re representing. I’m willing to do that and give every assurance that I will be absolutely impartial in everything that I’m trying to do and making sure I’m representing the Village and its best interests throughout.” Pizzella also accepted the proposal to stay on the committee for the time being. The Village of Pinehurst Council will next meet August 22.

Come out and support your local farmers at the brand-new farmers market in Carthage! The market features fresh produce, meats, eggs, and handmade goods! The market will be set up on S. Ray Street in the parking lot across from the post office.

August 19

Moore County

Farmers Market

8am – 12pm

Enjoy the Moore County Farmers Market at the Armory Sports Complex, which is located at 604 W. Morganton Road in Southern Pines! Buy local and fresh seasonal produce and products every Saturday morning from 8am until 12pm!

Sandhills Farmers Market

10am – 1pm

Come out for the Sandhills Farmers Market in the heart of the Village of Pinehurst! The market features many wonderful farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheesemakers, and specialty food producers in the area.

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Protecting our veterans & honoring our fallen heroes

AS THE REPRESENTATIVE of the largest Army base in the world, making sure our community’s veterans, troops, and their families get the support they deserve is among my top priorities.

service members—including our own U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss—during Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans.

At the end of July, the House passed the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. This legislation will strengthen our commitment to our veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. This legislation is also providing nearly $800 million above President Biden’s budget request for military construction to improve our national security.

I was able to secure large wins for our community, including over $250 million in funding for critical infrastructure projects that will aid our region’s military personnel, $150 million for barracks, and $36 million for a desperately needed child care center at Fort Liberty, formerly Fort Bragg. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to increase funding for the Veteran Crisis Line by $10 million.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need. In March alone, the crisis line received more than 88,000 calls, texts, and chats—the highest number we’ve ever had in one month. The additional funding in my amendment will allow the VA to better serve veterans, and their families, by ensuring the Veterans Crisis Line has the capacity to respond to every veteran in need.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-2738255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www. VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

We owe veterans our full support and I’m proud of everything House Republicans have accomplished this Congress for our veterans. Ensuring our military families and veterans have the resources they deserve are the most important duties we have in Congress, and we must continue to do everything we can to improve their quality of life.

As we support our nation’s veterans, we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice. August 15th marks the two year anniversary of when our nation lost 13 brave U.S.

The Barack Obama cover-up

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama.

LAST WEEK, Tablet released a fascinating conversation with historian David Garrow, author of a massive unauthorized biography of former President Barack Obama in his early years titled “Rising Stars.” By all rights, the book should have been a massive hit upon its release in 2017. Instead, it underperformed. The revelations contained therein never hit the mainstream. And that simple fact, in and of itself, demonstrates a simple reality of the modern political era: The entire press apparatus has been dedicated, since at least 2008, to the proposition that Obama had to be protected from all possible damage.

Garrow’s book carried multiple bombshells for Obama. Obama’s first autobiography — the egotist has already written several — “Dreams From My Father” told a story about how he broke up from a white girlfriend in his Chicago years over her failure to understand his desire for racial solidarity with black America. Actually, as Garrow’s book relates, the couple broke up because Obama refused to disown black antisemitism. Furthermore, as the book uncovers, Obama wrote letters to a girlfriend in which he “repeatedly fantasizes about making love to men.”

These are incredible allegations, to say the least. They were reported in the book. But as David Samuels of Tablet observes, the media were shockingly remiss in covering any of these stories: “’Rising Star’ highlights a remarkable lack of curiosity on the part of mainstream reporters and institutions about a man who almost instantaneously was treated less like a politician and more like the idol of an inter-elite cult.”

That was true in 2008, when the media steadfastly refused to take seriously reports about Obama’s attendance at an openly racist and antisemitic church for two decades. And it’s true in 2023, when the media still refuse to cover the fact that a huge number of President Joe Biden’s closest aides are

These brave men and women lost in Kabul put their lives on the line to save our fellow citizens and allies in harm’s way, and will forever be known as heroes. I continue to pray for the family of Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss, as well as the Gold Star families of each of these heroes, whose legacy will never be forgotten.

I recently met with family members of these heroes, including Staff Sergeant Knauss’ mother. Their pain and loss has been compounded by the misinformation and a lack of transparency by President Biden and his administration. These family members deserve to know all the facts and the truth about the mistakes made that put their loved ones in harm’s way. I am working with Committee on Foreign Affairs Chairman Mike McCaul, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers and others to ensure we get the answers they are seeking. We will hold this administration accountable.

Whether it’s protecting our veterans, shoring up our national security, securing the border, growing our economy, or holding our government agencies accountable, I continue to fight for what matters to you most. I’m proud to be standing up for you.

My goal is to continue to provide you with high quality constituent services and be accessible to hear your needs, thoughts, and concerns on key issues facing our community and nation. My dedicated staff in our Southern Pines and Fayetteville district offices are here to serve you.

Working with my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance common sense solutions that improve your quality of life is part of my commitment to you as your Congressman.

Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

Obama’s closest political allies. Obama resides in Washington, D.C.; all of the people who made policy for him now make policy for Biden. And yet nobody talks about the Obama influence in the current White House.

All of this is part of a broader pact on the part of every major apparatus in American life to mirror Obama’s perceptions of the world. In Obama’s own mind, he was a world-historical figure; that’s why, in 2010, when he experienced a rather predictable shellacking in a midterm election, he responded by suggesting that his opposition was actually motivated by vicious racism and brutal bigotry. The media mirrored that perspective; so did entertainment; so did tech companies. The immaculate, solid wall of support for Obama’s intersectional coalition is intimately connected to direct allegiance from the movers and shakers toward the Obama persona.

Just as our institutions were shaped for decades beyond JFK’s death by the myth built around him, so our modern institutions will be shaped for decades to come by the myth of Barack Obama. Garrow concludes about Obama: “He has no interest in building the Democratic Party as an institution. I think that’s obvious. And I don’t think he had any truly deep, meaningful policy commitments other than the need to feel and to be perceived as victorious, as triumphant.” But that victory — that triumph — came at the expense of the American people, who were promised a racial conciliator and a man of honor by a media invested in that lie. When the truth materialized and our institutions continued to perpetuate the lie, our institutions collapsed. We live in the era of Barack Obama still.

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Anita Louise Stanton

February 3, 1940 - August 10, 2023

Anita Louise (Jones) Stanton, 83 of Southern Pines passed on Thursday, August 10, 2023at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst.

Frances Theresa Schwehm

November 24, 1933 - August 7, 2023

Frances Theresa Schwehm, age 89, of Pinehurst, NC passed away peacefully on August 7, 2023. Frances was born in Rochester, NY November 24, 1933 to Angelo Conoscenti and Carmella (Maenza) Conoscenti. Frances was a devout catholic and shared her love of singing as the cantor in her church for many years. She was an avid reader, enjoyed playing golf, knitting, and was always ready to reminisce and share stories with family and friends.

Frances is survived by her sons, Daniel A. (Joanie) Schwehm and David (Joanne) Schwehm. Frances will be missed by her grandchildren, Patrick Schwehm, Jacqueline (Tom) Hare, Nicholas Schwehm, Zachary Schwehm, and step grandchildren Michael J. (Sarah) Napoli, Catherine Gehring, and A.J. Napoli. She was also the proud greatgrandmother to Ryan Sak, Alyssa and Carly Hare, and step great-grandchildren Liam and Alessandra Gehring.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband and love of her life, Daniel J. Schwehm, and her sister, Sally (John) Martilotta.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her name to Sacred Heart Church, 300 Dundee Rd. Pinehurst NC 28374.

Gladerine Wilder Dean

December 1, 1923 - August 5, 2023

Gladerine Wilder Dean, Age 99, of Southern Pines, North Carolina, passed on August 5, 2023 Westfield Rehabilitation & Health Center in Sanford, North Carolina.

Gladerine Wilder Dean was born December 1, 1923 in Zebulon, North Carolina; to the late Darius & Erma Wilder of Emit, North Carolina. She had twenty-eight years as an Air Force family and volunteered in many social and political activities within Moore County. Gladerine Wilder Dean is survived by her four sons; Norman Graham Dean III (wife Alice), Bobby Wrenn Dean (wife Mary), William Darius Dean, Gordon Wayne Dean (wife Kathy), 5 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren & 1 due in September. Gladerine Wilder Dean was preceded in death by her husband, Norman Graham Dean II, Darius & Erma Wilder (father & mother), LaRue Kelly & Frances (Frankie) Boyles (sisters), Hollie Dean (daughter-n-law).

Flowers are appreciated but memorial donations can be made in memory of Gladerine W Dean to the Sandhills Moore Coalition for Human Services, 1500 W Indiana Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387.

Donna McMillian Strother

November 30, 1954 - August 10, 2023

Donna McMillian Strother, age 68, of Supply, NC passed away at St. Joseph of The Pines Health Center on August 10, 2023.

Donna was born in Fayetteville, NC, November 30, 1954 to Grover Franklin McMillian and Nora Lee Treadwell. Donna was a loving mother and caregiver. She embodied strengths that enabled her to create community wherever she was present. She enjoyed creating and decorating. Her love of the coast led her to make that area her home over the past few years. Her kindness and generosity will be missed by many.

Donna is survived by her Daughter Alison Suggs, Son-inLaw Dale Suggs, Grandson Parker Suggs, Daughter Beth Dietrich, Grandson Grover Dietrich, her sisters Tammi and Vicky, and her mother Nora. Donna was preceded in death by her father and second spouse Celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Jeffrey William Riggs

November 26, 1957 - August 6, 2023

Jeffrey William Riggs, age 65, of Pinehurst, NC passed away at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital on August 6, 2023.

Jeff was born in Youngstown, OH November 26, 1957 to William and Judith Riggs. Jeff loved golf, old cars, motorcycles, boats and a good cigar every once and awhile. Jeff had a long career in the golf industry in Florida and New Jersey before his retirement. He had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Donna Riggs; children, John (Jenna) Riggs and Mary Riggs; grandchildren, Liam and Landon Riggs; mother, Judith Riggs; siblings, Molli Riggs, Tim (Tracy) Riggs and Steven (Colleen) Riggs: 5 nephews and many cousins. Jeff was preceded in death by his father, William Riggs. Please make a donation in Jeff’s name to the charity of your choice.

Robert Rickmeyer

August 24, 1942 - August 5, 2023

Robert Rickmeyer, known as Robert to his primary family, and Bob to everyone else, was a man who held deep beliefs in his Christian faith, the importance of family and the bonds of friendship, in hard work, a good education, honesty, being trustworthy, and being truthful and straightforward, even when it was uncomfortable.

Bob was immensely proud of his children and their accomplishments. He ended conversations with his Army officer son Paul by instructing him to “go save the world”. He loved and was proud of their spouses and enjoyed hearing about their varied careers. He marveled about how different their lives were from his, their use of technology, and worried about what the future held for them and their children. He loved his grandchildren deeply, and always wished they lived closer so that he could spend more time with them, and be more involved in their lives. He watched every video about their activities, and learned how to project them on the TV screen to watch them big. He gave his baseball mitt to his grandson Jordan, and was extremely pleased that he used it when he played.

His passion was sailing. After giving up his own sailboat to pay for college educations for his children, he began crewing on a friends boat, and found new joy in racing on Long Island Sound. He enjoyed the thrill of competition, and the camaraderie of the crew, creating close friends ships from then on.

He was able to bring his young son along and pass along his love of sailing. He crewed on two winning boats and loved doing The Around Long Island Race, all the rigattas, the Wednesday night races in Huntington Harbor, racing Block Island, Key West, and Mexico. Family vacations were planned around his racing schedule because he never wanted to miss anything, or leave his crew open handed. He grieved having to give up sailing due to an injury.

He was married to Anne for 54 years, and constantly told her it was the best thing he ever did in his life. Their families had predicted 6 months together, and he loved to taunt those long gone by saying “look at us now!” He loved being a Dad to his daughters Elizabeth and Genevieve, and son Paul.

He adored his older sister Carol, and protected his much younger brother Douglas. His family moved to Cleveland, Ohio for two years, and returned to Long Island after his father died. Bob lived in Hicksville, Long Island for the rest of his life.