North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein is appealing a July ruling ordering his department to remit funds collected from a lawsuit settlement to schools instead of projects and organizations picked by Stein. Special Deputy Attorney General Matthew Tulchin filed the appeal on behalf of Stein on Aug. 15. Last month, Wake County Superior Court Judge A. Graham Shirley ruled money collected in the Smithfield Foods settlement must be appropriated by the General Assembly and used for environmental enhancement in public schools. The ruling applies to funds received after July 1, 2019. That date was chosen as it corresponds to the year North Carolina was changed to dictate such settlements be deposited in the state treasury. The money in question is from an agreement made in 2000 between Smithfield Foods and then-Attorney General Mike Easley after the company’s hog waste pits overflowed due to the impact of Hurricane Floyd. Smithfield was ordered to pay $2 million annually for 25 years. The settlement funds were placed under the control of the North Carolina attorney general’s office, which critics said amounted to a slush fund that allowed the attorney general to pick groups or projects for environmental grants with no oversight. Stein’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the appeal.
NC-based soldier indicted for lying about anti-government group
Raleigh
An active-duty soldier based at Fort Liberty has been indicted on charges of having lied to military authorities about his association with a group that advocated overthrowing the U.S. government and of trafficking firearms. Kai Liam Nix, 20, who is stationed at Fort Liberty, made his first federal court appearance Monday on the four criminal counts, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina said in a news release. A grand jury returned the indictment against Nix — also known as Kai Brazelton — Aug. 14, and he was arrested the next day, the release said. Nix faces a maximum of 30 years in prison if convicted.
Whatley lays out Trump’s economic plan
The former NCGOP head, now chairing the national party, attacked Kamala Harris’ record
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
Local Government Commission approves $736M in projects
The projects include stormwater management, affordable housing and critical infrastructure needs
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
RALEIGH — The North Carolina Local Government Commission approved dozens of projects totaling around $736 million at its August meeting. Projects greenlit by the Local Government Commission (LGC) ranged from stormwater management and affordable housing to funding for critical
infrastructure and community development.
State Treasurer Dale Folwell, who chairs the LGC, emphasized the commission’s role in ensuring fiscal responsibility.
“Our duty is to carefully examine each proposal to ensure that the amount borrowed is both adequate and reasonable for the proposed projects, and that the governmental units can afford to repay the debt,” Folwell stated.
The largest piece of funding approved was for Charlotte, securing $205 million in revenue bonds for stormwater projects to fortify the city’s defenses
See LGC, page A2
KNIGHTDALE — National Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley outlined former President Donald Trump’s economic plan in front of a crowd at Prime Barbecue in Knightdale last Friday.
The event in Wake County followed Trump’s rally in Asheville earlier in the week where he announced that under his leadership, the U.S. “will commit to the ambitious goal of slashing energy and electricity prices by half, at least. We intend to slash prices by half within 12 months, at a maximum 18 months.”
Joining Whatley at the event were NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons and Prime Barbecue owner Fred Von Canon.
The restaurant’s assistant general manager, Sam Floyd also spoke, endorsing Trump’s no tax on tips plan, saying it would “put money in their pockets.” Floyd described the financial strain his family was experiencing paying their bills under the current administration with two young children in the house and grocery costs “going through the roof.”
Simmons opened formal remarks by stating Trump’s economic policies will “lower taxes, reduce regulations and to be able to spur economic development by unleashing America’s energy independence.” He characterized
See WHATLEY, page A3
“All of a sudden, she’s starting to change her positions on a number of these issues.” National Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley on Vice President Kamala Harris
“It’s a shame that it’s all we’re getting this year, but it’s better than nothing.”
Brian Cope, edtior of CarolinaSportsman. com
The reversal will allow anglers to keep one fish daily on four days in September
By Abby Cavenaugh North State Journal
RALEIGH — Recreational anglers will be able to catch and keep flounder this year after all with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission recent approval of a temporary amendment to the flounder rule to allow for a recreational season.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) approved the amendment at its July 25 business meeting, and it was subsequently approved by the N.C. Rules Review Commission on
July 31. “Under this modification,” a press release from NCWRC explained, “the 2024 flounder season will be open in inland fishing waters and in joint fishing waters for hook and line fishing only on Sept. 1 and 2, and again on Sept. 7 and 8. The daily creel limit is one fish with a minimum size limit of 15 inches.”
The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMFhad stated earlier this year that the recreational flounder harvest season would not open in 2024 due to the recreational sector exceeding the 2023 harvest allotment last year. According to the NCWRC press release, dated Aug. 7, “after reviewing and considering the available data and public comments, the NCWRC adopted amendments to provide a lim-
ited 2024 flounder season that balances the needs of the resource and the public.”
The designations for inland and joint fishing waters can be found online at ncpaws.org/ ncwrcmaps/FishingAreas. In the Coastal Region, inland waters are shown with no color, joint waters are outlined in red and coastal waters are outlined in blue. Though this information was shared in the NCWRC’s press release, Brian Cope, ed-
See FLOUNDER, page A2
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville on Aug. 13.
the word | Acceptable service
We stand corrected
To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@ nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
We read in the Bible of the form and power of godliness. When we look at the church, we see more of the form than the power. So many people seem to merely be playing religion. They attend services, go through the form of worship and are often strongly devoted to their creed and attached to the organization of which they are members. But, when you look for the power of godliness in their lives and the power to render acceptable service to God—you do not find it. This make-believe religion may ease the conscience for a time. But it will not bring us into a position where we can render acceptable service to God and where our own souls will be satisfied.
There are many people who go through the forms of religion and try to serve the Lord, but never know if their service is acceptable or not.
A lady who professed to be a Christian had prayed often. Speaking to me on the subject of prayer, she said, “I cannot say that God has ever answered my prayers.” Think of it – twenty years of praying and never a prayer answered. Still, there are many who would have the same confession. Their religion has so little of reality in it, that it seems almost nothing to them.
A certain religious professor went to work with a gang of men upon a public contract. He worked with them several weeks and then came home. A friend asked him, “How did you get along working with that gang of wicked men up there? What did they have to say about your religion?”
The professor replied, “oh, they didn’t find out anything about it. I didn’t tell them.”
It is just that way with many people. You would never find out anything about their religion—if they did not tell you about it. There is no manifestation of it in their lives or characters.
Ezekiel speaks of this class of people and says of them, “My people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice. With their mouths they express devotion, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain.” (Ezekiel 33:31). Isaiah, as quoted by Jesus, says of the same class, “This people honors me with their lips — but their heart is far from me” (Matthew 15:8). Of what religion they have Jesus says, “In vain do they worship me” (verse 9).
Acceptable service to God can never be
rendered with the lips alone. It must come from the heart. If our hearts are not in the service, our service is in vain. Service to God must be the most real of all things. It must be the great outstanding fact of life. God hates the mere form of religion. It is an insult to him. He knows our true intentions. Modern ritualism is a curse to the church. A true Christian heart needs no such form. When we draw near to God with our hearts, the Spirit within us makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. It is from such a heart that true service flows.
Acceptable service can come only from a holy heart. God’s standard for his worshipers is “that you may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God” (Philippians 2:15).
Lost sinners cannot do that which is pleasing in the sight of God. Repentance is the one thing upon which God centers their attention. To repent is the first thing for them to do. God loves to receive the service of the holy. We may be weak and faltering, but our service is acceptable to God none the less—if our hearts are right in his sight.
If we live in known disobedience to God,
we might as well not try to serve him. Our hearts must first be righteous, before our lives can be so. Service, to be acceptable, must always be willing service. God forces no one to serve him. He lays down the principle that “if there is first a willing mind—then it is accepted according to that a man has” (2 Corinthians 8:12). Our service is not judged by our ability to do great things. A child can serve as acceptably as a man; the ignorant as well as the learned.
The soul who serves willingly—takes God’s way gladly. He does not ask to choose for himself; he only asks what will please the Lord, and, once knowing that, he gladly does it. Paul said of preaching the gospel, that if he did it willingly—then he had a reward. It is only the willing service which has the reward. Willing service does have both a present and a future reward.
Charles Wesley Naylor is considered one of the most prolific and inspiring songwriters of the Church of God. He was bedridden for much of his adult life but wrote eight books, a newspaper column and over 150 songs. Many of his writings are in the public domain.
against flooding and improve overall water management.
Cabarrus County received approval for $186 million in limited obligation bonds to fund multiple general government projects. The approval came after extended discussions in both the July and current LGC meetings, ultimately passing with a 7-1 vote.
Other significant approvals included $75 million for Johnston County’s water and sewer system improvements and Pender County getting approval for $68 million to construct a comprehensive law enforcement
North Carolina anglers will be able to keep one flounder, over 15 inches, per day for four days in September after the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission added a limited recreational season.
center. In Wake County, Holly Springs secured $42 million for a new operations center.
Wake County’s Housing Authority received approval for more than $40 million in various conduit revenue bond requests related to creating affordable housing.
The approvals also extended to smaller projects like Mebane’s $7.6 million for a spillway replacement in Lake Michael Park and Morrisville’s $1.7 million for street and sidewalk repairs.
The LGC also approved resolutions to return financial control to the town of Eureka in Wayne County and the Cliffside Sanitary District in Ruther-
ford County after successful efforts by both entities were made to correct financial deficiencies.
Other approvals granted at the August meeting included:
• $37.5 million for New Hanover County for a library, fire stations and other facilities
• $30 million for Asheville (Buncombe County) for water system improvements
• $22 million for Person County for building acquisitions and improvements
• $11 million for Stokes County for courthouse expansion
$205M
Funds approved by the Local Government Commission for Charlotte stormwater projects
• $5.1 million for Durham Housing Authority for multifamily rental housing development
• $2.6 million for Belmont (Gaston County) for vehicle purchases
FLOUNDER from page A1
itor of CarolinaSportsman.com, said many recreational anglers are confused about where they can fish for flounder during this year’s four-day season.
“I see a lot of misinformation from well-intended recreational anglers going around on Facebook groups about what constitutes each area,” he said.
“The flounder recreational fishery has been demonstrated to be socially and economically important,” said Anna Gurney, public relations manager for NCWRC.
Gurney also shared a letter from NCWRC Chairman Monty Crump, which reads in part:
“The recreational sector exceeded its quota in 2023, while the commercial sector did not significantly exceed its quota. This is because the commercial sector’s landings were monitored daily and the season was closed as harvest approached the total allowable landings. Had monitoring for the recreational sector been conducted similarly, the season could have been closed in time to prevent the quota from being exceeded so much that there could be a season in 2024. Additionally, if the recreational sector was allocated an equal share of the total allowable landings, as initially proposed in Amendment 3, the sector may not have exceeded its quota. … Our recreational constituents should not
• $1.8 million for Wallace (Duplin and Pender counties) for pump station rehabilitation
LGC members also approved financing for multiple “lead service line inventories” for several municipalities throughout the state that include Belmont (Gaston County), Burnsville (Yancey County), Eden (Rockingham County), Gates County, Hobgood (Halifax County), Kinston (Lenoir County), Laurinburg (Scotland County), Newton (Catawba County), Ranlo (Gaston County), Richmond County, Troy (Montgomery County) and Weldon (Halifax County).
suffer without a harvest season for something that was not their fault.”
The harvest allotment for flounder, as set by the NCDMF, is 70% to the commercial sector and 30% to the recreational sector. Because the split is scheduled to transition to 50% for each sector by 2026, Crump requested to accelerate the transition to a 50% split for 2024 to allow for a recreational flounder season along the coast.
“The NCWRC has authority to regulate fishing in inland fishing waters and for hookand-line in Joint Fishing Waters,” Gurney said. “In inland fishing waters, flounder is designated an inland game fish and can only be taken by hook-andline.”
Wildlife Commission fisheries biologists will be conducting a flounder harvest creel survey during the open season dates at many boating access areas, said NCWRC Assistant Chief of Inland Fisheries Corey Oakley.
“We look forward to speaking with anglers to better understand fishing effort and flounder harvest during the shortened season,” he said.
Cope added that he’s glad there will be a flounder fishing season but can’t help feeling disappointed with the limitations.
“I think any opportunities for recreational anglers are always good,” he said. “It’s a shame that it’s all we’re getting this year, but it’s better than nothing.”
PUBLIC DOMAIN
“The Blind leading the Blind” by Pieter Bruegel the Elder (1568) is a painting in the collection of the Wellcome Collection in London.
LGC from page A1
MICHAEL PIRRELLO / CREATIVE COMMONS
Griffin touts bipartisan support, experience in Supreme Court race
The Court of Appeals judge faces Allison Riggs, who was appointed to the state’s high court by Gov. Roy Cooper
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
RALEIGH — With Republicans sweeping statewide judicial races in the past two election cycles, eyes are on this year’s lone North Carolina Supreme Court seat race between Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin and Associate Justice Allison Riggs.
At the time she was appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper to the Court of Appeals in mid-December 2022, Riggs had no bench experience and was known for her work at the Southern Coalition for Social Justice. At that organization, she worked alongside Associate Justice Anita Earls before Earls’ election to the high court. Both women have been backed and endorsed by former Obama administration Attorney General Eric Holder.
Nine months after her initial appointment, in September 2023, Cooper elevated Riggs to the state Supreme Court following the departure of Associate Justice Michael Morgan, who left the bench to compete in the Democratic primary for governor.
While this is Riggs’ first time running for an elected state-
wide office, she defeated her primary challenger to face Griffin this fall, who won his Court of Appeals seat in the 2020 statewide election.
During the 2020 campaign cycle, Griffin was initially deployed overseas with the 30th Armor Brigade and came back to a state closed down due to COVID-19. His wife, Katye, had to handle much of the 2020 campaign work in his absence.
In an interview with North State Journal, Griffin talked about the current race and how the judicial system touches people in their everyday lives.
“People are more aware about our judicial races now, I think
overall,” said Griffin. “They’ve seen the impact that the state judiciary has on their lives and what issues they touch. Pretty much anything in your life, state courts will have some impact on it, so people are more aware of that.”
Griffin said judicial restraint, consistency and keeping politics out of the courtroom were topics being discussed by voters as he campaigned around the state.
“North Carolinians want jurists who are not up there with a political agenda,” said Griffin. “They want consistency in the law, whether that’s from practitioners, the business communi-
Tuesday.
WHATLEY from page A1 the plan of Trump’s opponent, Kamala Harris, as “more regulations, more taxes and controlling prices — Soviet-style policies.”
Whatley — who served as North Carolina Republican Party chairman before being tapped by Trump to serve as chairman of the RNC — started out describing the dangers of conflicts in the Middle East and recent aggressive activity by China and Russia, saying, “We are on the verge of World War III.”
“We are seeing hostilities in the Middle East that did not exist when Donald Trump was in office,” he said.
Whatley also said the FBI has warned of terror concerns tied to the illegal migrant crisis at the U.S. southern border, pinning them on “border czar” Harris.
“The No. 1 issue,” Whatley said, “is the economy. It’s inflation,” adding inflation is up an “aggregate of 20% over the course of the last four years”
Whatley said Harris, as vice president to Joe Biden, is responsible for inflationary spending and its impact on businesses and families. He highlighted Trump’s no tax on tips proposal and a plan to remove taxes from Social Security to help seniors.
Harris has mirrored Trump’s call for eliminating taxes on
service workers’ gratuities.
“Look, I think what we have seen from Kamala Harris on any number of different issues is trying to walk back the radical positions that she has had over the course of her political career,” Whatley said.
“Now that she’s in the middle of an election cycle, all of a sudden, she’s starting to change her positions on a number of these issues. I think the real question is, one, do you believe that you have been wrong on every single signature issue over the course of the last four years regarding the American people? Or two, are you just trying to pander because it’s an election cycle that’s coming up?”
Whatley said the key to “return to fiscal sanity here in America” includes an extension of the Trump tax cuts and ramping up of U.S. energy production. He then criticized Harris’ plan as “absolutely misguided.”
“The fact is, she was the tiebreaker vote on the two spending packages that unleashed $2.5 trillion worth of inflationary federal spending on this economy,” said Whatley.
“Even Joe Biden said (last Thursday) she has been at the table and was part of every one of these decision-makings for the disastrous economic decisions that have come out of this administration,” said Whatley.
“North Carolinians want jurists who are not up there with a political agenda.” Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin, candidate for the N.C. Supreme Court
ty, like I said, everything in our lives, as citizens are touched by our state courts, so people want consistency.
“They don’t want politicians up there in rooms that are trying to make policy changes or fight some ideological battle or policy battle from the pitch.”
The 43-year-old Griffin said his judicial philosophy and approach line up with what he is hearing on the campaign trail.
“I believe we should interpret the law as when it was written,” Griffin said, describing himself as an originalist. “I think that is the most consistent way to interpret the law, and it keeps us as jurists from putting our own meaning into legal documents.
“It keeps us in line with our job of interpreting the law, not making the law from the bench. The more we put our own spin on things as jurists, the further away that document gets away from the people who either ratified something or sent their elected representatives to make the law.”
Bipartisan support and prior electoral experience were two things Griffin underscored about his candidacy.
“I’ve been very humbled and thankful for the support from those relationships when I was a prosecutor and just a court judge in Wake County,” said Griffin. “I’m proud that we’ve had support across the state from not only Republicans but Democrats and unaffiliated voters as supporters.”
Former Gov. Pat McCrory appointed Griffin to fill the Wake County District Court seat in 2015. Griffin then ran to retain the seat and won, unopposed, in 2016.
Griffin underscored he chose to go into the law because it was the best way to serve North Carolinians.
“When I was young, I wanted to be a football coach, a soldier or a lawyer,” said Griffin, adding he’s gotten a chance to be involved in each of those things. “I finally got down to what one of the best ways I can help people in my state and give back to North Carolina, and service in the law was the area that I felt most strongly on.”
Griffin said he earned valuable experience working on charter fishing boats in college and law school, but these days, family is his priority.
“My most important job and my favorite job right now is I’m a father to two awesome kids,” Griffin said of his 7-month-old daughter and 2½-year-old son.
Griffin said he’s a “big outdoorsman” who, when he can carve out free time, enjoys fishing or turkey hunting.
Information on Griffin’s campaign can be found at jeffersongriffin.com.
Whatley said Trump’s plan to bring down energy costs “is very simple” and would open up energy production not just for the U.S. but “around the world.”
During his speech in Asheville, Trump touted ending the “Biden-Harris war on American energy” as a way to bring down the cost of living.
Whatley said opening up gas and oil leases is “certainly a factor” in those efforts.
“Natural gas prices are going to continue to be a huge factor,” said Whatley. “And we’re going to need to open up pipelines to make sure that we’re getting
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
product from the fields to the markets in the most expedient, responsible way.”
The GOP chairman dismissed the idea Trump needed to change his messaging based on the recent poll bump for Harris after naming her running mate pick, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
“Well, it’s hardly a surprise that Kamala Harris has seen a little bit of an uptick in the polls compared to where Joe Biden was,” said Whatley, adding that the conversation will flip back to “who is delivering a better platform and better poli-
last Friday.
cies for every American family.” Whatley also criticized Harris’ plans to offer $25,000 to first-time homebuyers for down payments and $40 billion in taxpayer funds to local government to expand housing options.
“We need to bring inflation down; we need to bring interest rates down and people will be able to go back to affording their homes,” Whatley said. Trump was scheduled to return to North Carolina on Wednesday with a campaign stop in Asheboro, his third visit to the state in the last month.
A.P. DILLON / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin, pictured in 2020, is facing Justice Amanda Riggs for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court.
PHOTOS BY PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left: People wait outside Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville last Tuesday to attend a campaign rally being held by former President Donald Trump. Top right: Former President Donald Trump delivers a speech during his campaign visit to Asheville. Bottom right: Sen. Ted Budd of North Carolina gestures to the crowd while on stage during the campaign rally last
Republican National Committee Chairman Micheal Whatley speaks at Prime BBQ in Knightdale
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL
Report from Wisconsin
Never interfere with the enemy when he is in the process of destroying himself.
WE JUST RETURNED from a week in Door County, Wisconsin, tracing my wife’s family history with the establishment of the cherry orchards in the late 1800s up there above the 45th parallel.
The 45th parallel is halfway between the equator and the North Pole. It is nice in the summer. Not sure about the winter.
While there, we saw and heard about the politics in a true swing state, Wisconsin, from the people who mattered the most ― local legal registered voters.
Trump won North Carolina twice by an average of 124,000 votes. Donald Trump barely won Wisconsin in 2016 by 22,748 votes. Joe Biden barely won the state in 2020 by 20,682 votes. They were probably the same truly independent swing voters who really didn’t like Hillary Clinton and really didn’t like Trump four years later. They probably really don’t like Biden, which should mean, by extension, they won’t like his vice president, Kamala Harris, either once they find out more about her.
We saw two signs on the way from Egg Harbor through Fish Creek and then to Ephraim. The first was blue and said: ‘VOTE FOR DEMOCRATS: THEY VOTE FOR US!”
The other one was red and said: “Have You Had Enough Yet? Vote Republican.”
The number of blue signs was surprising given that most rural areas in every state are strongholds for Republicans and Donald Trump. “They are wasting their time and money,” said one staunch Republican. “Everyone knows Milwaukee and Madison are going to vote 80/20 for any Democrat over any Republican in every race. It just matters how many rural voters get up and vote early in-person and on Election Day” he said in his sing-song Scandinavian accent.
Democratic signs were deliberately ambiguous. If yard signs were given truth serum, the blue signs would have blared: “Democrats support abortion on demand; massive spending giveaways to other Democrats; letting 10 million more illegal immigrants cross the border unchecked and unverified; cancellation of rich kids’ student debt and letting criminals out of jail early ― oh, and they don’t care if they jack up inflation rates so no one can afford food or gas any more either.”
“That dog won’t hunt in rural areas,” another partisan Republican said. “But somehow, it does work in major
Since it was my second time in four years catching it, I knew what to expect for the most part.
NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE and where you are in life, you’ve been hit by a few of life’s curveballs.
I’m not talking about a literal curveball that might veer off course and hit you while you’re at a baseball game. I’m talking about the day-to-day ones that crop up when you least expect them.
In a column I wrote back in May, I talked about a big one with which we were hit: having to do a pretty major crawlspace renovation that included but was not limited to mold remediation, structural repairs, encapsulation and a French drain system.
Outside of the final inspection and a couple of punch list items, we are (hopefully) past that curveball.
But another one hit us a couple of weeks ago: the COVID monster.
It was bound to happen. I have taken Mom to a lot of doctor appointments over the last month or so, and I suspect that I caught the virus at one of them because two days after her most recent doctor visit is when I started displaying symptoms. What made going through it even more challenging was that a loved one who was here who had been staying with us for a bit and who took care of Mom and me at the start of my catching the virus ended up catching it herself. It was the first time she’d had it, so she was really scared.
Since it was my second time in four years catching it, I knew what to expect for the most part. As one of my mom’s doctors said a few weeks ago, COVID for most people now is like a bad cold.
metropolitan cities in Wisconsin just like it works in New York and San Francisco.”
Wisconsin is like North Carolina ― they are not even a light shade of lavender or periwinkle purple. If both states were bowties, they would be very deep red with a few splotches of bright royal blue on them.
On the other hand, Republican signs could have added one word and everyone would have known what they meant: “Have You Had Enough (Government) Yet?”
Virtually every problem America faces today has been caused by government. Ronald Reagan said it best in his first inaugural address in 1981 when he said: “Government is not the solution to the problem: government is the problem.”
Excessive government spending and deficit financing exacerbate inflation. Inflation forces banks to charge higher interest on mortgage loans. No enforcement of the border means local governments are swamped by welfare payments to noncitizens and higher police costs. Reckless authoritarian decisions made by Biden to cancel billions of dollars of student debt add to more national indebtedness. Federal edicts and regulatory strangulation of domestic energy producers have made America dependent on foreign oil again after four years of energy independence under Trump.
We had the added benefit of meeting a couple from Minneapolis over a campfire who could not contain themselves when it came to talking about how terrible their Gov. Tim Walz has been, first as mayor of Minneapolis and then as governor.
“He let the BLM rioters burn down the city. … It has not recovered since. Downtown Minneapolis is one of the most unsafe places for any Minnesotan to visit nowadays. He is a Maoist left-wing communist who wants higher taxes on everyone; more restrictions on business and kids to be given puberty-blockers at public schools without parental consent. It would be a travesty if he was elected VP under President Kamala Harris. God help us all if he becomes president one day because he is even farther to the left than she is, and she is from San Francisco!”
Those were the nice things they had to say about Walz.
Republicans should heed Napoleon’s maxim when it comes to dealing with the extreme far-left comments by Harris and Walz: “Never interfere with the enemy when he is in the process of destroying himself.”
Just run a billion ads of them saying what they believe in their own words and let them undo themselves.
That said, it did a number on me to the point I had to quarantine myself for a week. It also did a number on my wallet, as I ended up having to order out a lot for food since I wasn’t fit to go into the kitchen to make anything.
Fortunately, we are all testing negative at this point and are getting back into our normal routines to the extent we can because even mild to moderate cases of COVID can take a lot out of you as your body fights to get well.
But for me, at least, when I’m going through something like that, I manage to think about all the projects I could be working on but can’t because I’m stuck in a room.
The funny thing is those house projects languished well before I caught the virus, but once I was in a position where I absolutely could not do them, they suddenly became more pressing and urgent. Isn’t it funny how that works?
All of that said, I’m grateful to be on the other side of COVID and slowly getting back into the groove. I’m also immensely thankful that throughout it all, Mom tested negative and I pray she (and I) continue to.
It’s interesting to think that nearly four years to the day I first caught COVID I got it again. We’ve come a long way as a country since then, some for the better, and some for the worse.
But I’m happy to report that I’m back in action, a little worse for wear and rough around the edges, but back nonetheless and hoping to get around to those “urgent” projects I had put off, once I stop making excuse after excuse for why I can’t get to them.
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.
Relax! God is still on your side
Remember bands like Megadeth, Black Sabbath and others from back in the day?
AS A PROFESSIONAL person who is considered to be both a “conservative campaign operative” and a media consultant, my phone and social media pages are always blowing up when something distasteful trends.
Enter stage left the “Satan is infiltrating our culture” crowd.
Bear in mind that 98.9% of my friends, via Facebook and in real life, are mostly conservative Christians. Love them all. Love their values, morals and convictions.
Their recent posts concerning how every major mega-music success is promoting Satan are no new thing. These wild and dark images you post of these musical stars dressed in black and red with dark, foreboding stage lighting and ears and tails are not a new thing by any stretch.
Nor do I believe the devil himself is working through them to destroy our world as we know it. From Lil Naz X to (hope you’re seated!) Taylor Swift, all have displayed this dark imagery to lure audiences in.
Remember Megadeth, Black Sabbath and other such bands from back in the day? Dozens of bands have all followed this path at one point or another. It’s a money game and nothing more. Simply look at the demographics of which age group spends the most on music. I can assure you it’s not the boomers downloading Sinatra tunes by the millions.
Is it an infiltration of Satan into young minds to corrupt? Not at all. What it is, is “psychology-meets-mega-marketing” at its finest. By these bands (and Hollywood) appealing to the 13-21 crowd and appealing to their emerging rebellious stage in life, what darker and more rebellious can one get but to buck the system, jump on the darkest path available and “show the man” who can’t be controlled?
At that tender age I was one of those people reading Anton Levay’s “The Satanic Bible” at 17, and look at me now!
When my son was maybe 4 years old, I remember him rolling out of his older sister’s bedroom sporting his mom’s high heels, the sister’s tutu and rouge on his face. What I didn’t do was rush him to the nearest “Gender Change” clinic and chop off his goodies. I laughed, he laughed and that was the end of
that. The next day he was slinging mud in the back yard and wrestling with the dog and pulling his sister’s braided hair. We all grow through stages, good bad and ugly, and the truth is, the vast majority of us survive.
Truth be told, I was far more disturbed by the whole scene staged via the Biden administration when Biden walked up to a podium on Sept. 1, 2022, bathed in dark, dramatic red lighting. Some headlines the next day read “Biden’s ‘blood red’ backdrop steals show in speech attacking MAGA.” In that speech, Biden went on to blame “MAGA Republicans” for everything from the pandemic to election fraud to raging crime in the streets. Of course he made it a point to note that “not all Republicans are radical.” Thanks, Joe, I feel so much better, maybe even vindicated a bit.
Talk about a textbook case of psyops at its finest. George Orwell was surely rolling over in his grave after that speech.
In music, theater, the arts and, of course, politics, Psychology plays a big part. It always has. Knowing what buttons to push on the human psyche and emotions can be the success or failure of any such endeavor. In the case of Biden’s Sept. 1 speech, it was designed to engender fear of “the big, dark Orange Man,” and in some cases, it worked. My phone and socials blew up then as well.
“Calm down people” was my typical response, and it continues to be.
Enter the Olympics! Christians were again outraged at the “Opening Ceremony” and the blasphemous staging of the “Last Supper.” Outrage? Yes. Solution. Turn off the TV and watch something else. It’s our only revenge. It was reported that this recent Olympics was the least-watched in history.
Awful music? Same solution. Change the channel. In the Digital Age, they know what we watch and what we listen to. They also know when we “vote with our feet” and bring our attention, and dollars, somewhere else.
In conclusion, to my Christian and Jewish friends; Have faith, real faith. We can’t change them and their assault on our youth and us, but we can refuse to participate — and that’s the best revenge ever.
Stephen Xavier is an executive coach and business consultant who resides in Apex.
The Democratic Convention and
‘the politics of joy’
Sixty-five percent of Americans say our country is on the wrong track. Only 25% say we are moving in the right direction.
THE LAST Democratic National Convention held in Chicago was 56 years ago.
In 1968, a deeply split Democratic Party found its convention surrounded by thousands of militant anti-Vietnam War demonstrators. What would later be called a police riot exploded. Tear gas drifted from Grant Park into the convention center.
The American people watched what was essentially a civil war within the Democratic Party on live television. Richard Nixon, the Republican presidential nominee, found himself much closer to the presidency at the end of that week.
This year, the Kamala Harris-Tim Walz team was hoping for a much quieter and more successful convention. Their issueless theme has been captured in recent articles about the so-called “politics of joy.”
The great challenge for Vice President Harris and her team is the “politics of joy” will be completely tone-deaf for many Americans.
According to RealClear Politics, 65% of Americans say our country is on the wrong track. Only 25 percent say we are moving in the right direction. This isn’t exactly “joyful” given Harris is the current vice president.
If your family budget is squeezed by the 20% price increases under the Joe BidenHarris administration, you are not likely feeling joyful.
If you have no hope of buying a home because Biden-Harris policies have made it too expensive, you have no joy.
If your loved one was killed in the disastrous collapse in Afghanistan, you don’t feel joyful.
If your community is overrun with illegal immigrants allowed in under the Biden-Harris open border policy, you don’t likely have a great sense of joy.
If you are worried about the threat to Israel’s survival — and the rise of antisemitism on college campuses and in the Democratic Party, you don’t have much joy.
If you consider Walz’s failure to bring in the National Guard during the Minnesota riots in 2020 — or Harris’s effort to help bail out the rioters — you are not likely joyful.
Further, if you are paying attention to the Democratic ticket’s clear anti-police, procriminal records, you have no joy.
If you reject men competing in women’s sports, tampons in middle school boys’ restrooms, and parents being told they can’t stop their children from having gender-change operations, you have no joy.
At virtually every level, the practical reallife results of Harris and Walz’s “politics of joy” are angering Americans and killing their joy.
The Democrats’ reaction has been to
develop a series of phony promises and an agenda that bears no resemblance to their past behaviors — or what they actually intend to do if given power.
As you hear each new false promise and nice-sounding agenda item, you should ask yourself two simple questions:
Why haven’t they implemented them over the last four years?
And why should we believe they would now?
Those two questions will reveal how phony and staged the entire Democratic National Convention really was.
A good example is Harris’s brand-new position on fracking. She has always said she opposed fracking. Now that she needs to carry Pennsylvania — which has two of the four largest natural gas fields in the world — she has suddenly softened her position.
Which Harris do you believe: The old San Francisco radical who has always been for the Green New Deal and against fracking, or the new vote-hungry candidate eager to say whatever you need to hear to get your vote?
The most interesting political gymnastics will be on Israel and Hamas. Having rejected Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is Jewish and pro-Israel, Harris will have to walk a narrow line.
There is already growing anger with Harris in the activist pro-Hamas, pro-terrorism wing of the Democratic Party over the current administration’s stance. In one recent event, as anti-Israeli demonstrators were disrupting her speech with demands for a free Palestine, Harris felt compelled to say, “I respect your voices.”
To further complicate Harris’s dilemma with traditional pro-Israel Democrats, NBC Montana reported that Walz “once praised a pro-Palestinian Muslim leader who is allegedly responsible for spreading antisemitic content, including a pro-Hitler film.”
It will be interesting to see how the Democratic platform handles the growing split in its party between the declining pro-Israel wing and the growing antisemitic wing that favors the destruction of Israel.
The Democratic National Convention in Chicago was worth every American watching — simply as an exercise in detecting hypocrisy.
You learned how much more radical they are than anyone you know.
You saw just how much they are willing to lie to get your vote.
You will be able to decide for yourself if the Democratic National Convention represents “the politics of joy” — or the same old radical leftwing baloney disguised by the propaganda media.
Preserving American battlefields through bipartisanship
THE LACK OF BIPARTISAN agreement in our national and local politics is a much-lamented condition in our country today.
Congress in particular seems to have devolved into an acrimonious state in which there is little incentive for compromise. We long for the days of Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill, who are often canonized as the gold standard of balancing political interests with those of the country.
The reasons for this state of affairs have been extensively analyzed, and I am quite far from being in any position to offer fresh insights as to a positive pathway forward. However, I can point to one notable example of bipartisanship that does exist in our nation’s capital as well as in many state legislatures across the country.
Oddly enough in this era of monument desecration, the one area which has captured the interest and support of Democrats and Republicans alike is American battlefield preservation.
The leader in battlefield preservation is the American Battlefield Trust. A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the Trust’s mission is to preserve the hallowed grounds of the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the Civil War, and to educate the public about what happened on those battlefields and why it matters today.
By preserving these outdoor classrooms for future generations, we enable the remembrance and appreciation of the sacrifices made there to secure our freedoms. In the last 25 years, the Trust has saved more than 58,000 acres of endangered battlefield land at 155 sites in 25 states. Most of the land saved has been in the pathway of residential and commercial development.
Many assume the Federal Government, through the National Park Service, would preserve important historical land. This is not the case, and the Trust has successfully demonstrated how a private group of concerned citizens can make a difference in honoring the sacrifices of the men who bled and died for our freedoms by preserving the land on which they fought.
This land is not inexpensive. In addition to the generous donations of its dedicated members, the Trust has also utilized an innovative process of matching federal and state grants to leverage its fundraising effectiveness.
This is where the bipartisanship comes in.
Through the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP), an agency within the National Park Service, Congress has for years authorized and appropriated funds for matching grants applied to battlefield preservation.
In FY 2024, Congress appropriated $20 million to ABPP, which has been used mainly by the Trust to leverage its private donations. Support for this appropriation was bipartisan, and most notably the co-chairs of the American Battlefields Congressional Caucus are Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Gerry Connolly (D-Va.)
The Caucus has successfully garnered sustained support for this legislation over the years. Members from both sides of the aisle understand that not only does preserving America’s hallowed ground inspire appreciation of our history, but is also often ecologically positive by preserving wetlands and open space. In addition, heritage tourism benefits the local economies where the battlefield parks are located. Lastly, members of our active military use these battlefields for Staff Rides, which are on-site tours that teach leadership and tactical skills by studying the lessons of the battles.
On the state level, bipartisan legislative support for battlefield preservation has occurred in Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, North and South Carolina and Kentucky, among others. Tennessee, in particular, passed a real estate transfer tax that generates $4 million annually in matching grant funds to be used for heritage land preservation in the state.
As a major gift officer for the Trust from 2017-23, I witnessed firsthand the incredible generosity of its members. As a participant in the Trust’s lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill, I also witnessed the strong bipartisan support for matching grants that so benefit our country’s future generations.
On many occasions in both Republican and Democrat offices, I was told that the Trust had the only true bipartisan issue that had been presented to them. Despite the vitriol and distrust so often portrayed about Congress in the media, I always walked away from my visits on the Hill encouraged.
Perhaps this small corner of bipartisan legislative success can serve as a catalyst for further positive collaboration on other issues of more major importance to our nation.
Tom Moore is an investment adviser with Capital Investment Companies and resides in Upperville, Virginia. Tom is a native of North Carolina.
Blinken says Israel OKs plan to break the cease-fire impasse
The U.S. secretary of state is urging Hamas to agree to the deal
By Matthew Lee The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday that Israel has accepted a proposal to bridge differences holding up a cease-fire and hostage release in Gaza, and he called on Hamas to do the same without saying whether concerns cited by the militant group had been addressed.
The high-stakes negotiations have gained urgency in recent days as diplomats hope an agreement will deter Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah from avenging the targeted killings of two top militants that were blamed on Israel. The escalating tensions have raised fears of an even more destructive regional war.
Blinken spoke after holding a 2½-hour meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier in the day, and he will travel to Egypt and Qatar for further negotiations. The three mediators have spent months trying to end the war in Gaza, with the talks repeatedly stalling.
“In a very constructive meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu today, he confirmed to me that Israel supports the bridging proposal,” Blinken told reporters, without saying what the proposal entails. “The next important step is for Hamas to say ‘yes.’”
He added, however, that even if Hamas accepts the proposal, negotiators will spend the coming days working on “clear understandings on implementing the agreement.” He said there are still “complex issues” requiring “hard decisions by the leaders,” without offering specifics. Hamas has said it is losing faith in the U.S. as a mediator,
accusing American negotiators of siding with Israel as it makes new demands that the militant group rejects. Blinken did not say whether the proposal addressed Israel’s demand for control over two strategic corridors inside Gaza — which Hamas has said is a nonstarter — or other issues that have long bedeviled the negotiations.
Netanyahu said he had a “good and important meeting” with Blinken and appreciated the “understanding that the United States has shown to our vital security interests, along with our shared efforts to release our hostages.” He added that efforts are being made to release the maximum number of hostages in the first stage of a cease-fire deal.
Blinken’s ninth mission to the Middle East since the conflict began came days after mediators, including the United States, expressed renewed optimism that a deal was near. But Hamas has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the latest proposal, and Israel has said there were points on which it was unwilling to compromise.
Earlier on Monday, Blinken said it was a “decisive moment” and “maybe the last” opportunity to free the hostages and secure a cease-fire.
“It’s also time to make sure that no one takes any steps that could derail this process,” he said in a veiled reference to Iran. “And so we’re working to make sure that there is no escalation, that there are no provocations, that there are no actions that in any way move us away from getting this deal over the line, or for that matter, escalating the conflict to other places and to greater intensity.”
Mediators will meet again this week to try to cement a cease-fire. Blinken will travel Tuesday to Egypt and Qatar, where Hamas maintains a political office.
The war began on Oct. 7 when thousands of Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. Of those, about 110 are still believed to be in Gaza, though Israeli authorities say around a third are dead. More than 100 hostages were re-
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken waves as he disembarks from his plane in Tel Aviv, Israel, last Sunday.
Bronze statue of Lewis replaces Confederate monument
Decatur, Ga.
A large bronze statue of late civil rights icon leader and Georgia congressman John Lewis was installed last Friday at the very spot where a monument to the confederacy stood for more than 110 years in the town square before it was dismantled in 2020. Work crews gently rested the 12-foot-tall statue into place as the internationally acclaimed sculptor, Basil Watson, looked on carefully. Lewis was known for his role at the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement and urged others to get in “good trouble.”
leased in November during a weeklong cease-fire.
Dozens of Israelis demonstrated outside of the Tel Aviv hotel where Blinken was staying, holding photos of the hostages and demanding an immediate cease-fire.
“We know that only with vast help of the American administration a deal will come,” said Yehuda Cohen, whose 20-yearold son, Nimrod, is being held hostage in Gaza. “We are here to say it out loud: Blinken, Antony Blinken, please push Netanyahu for a deal at any price because I want my son to be free.”
Israel’s counterattack in Gaza has killed more than 40,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, and devastated much of the territory.
The war has plunged the territory of 2.3 million people into a humanitarian catastrophe, with aid groups now fearing an outbreak of polio.
Blinken said the United States shares those concerns and is working on a plan with Israel to ensure vaccines are made available “in the coming weeks,” saying, “It is urgent, it is vital.”
Border arrests drop 33% to a 46month low
Asylum restrictions have helped slow immigration
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Arrests for illegally crossing the border from Mexico plummeted 33% in July to the lowest level since September 2020, a result of asylum being temporarily suspended, authorities said Friday.
The Border Patrol made 56,408 arrests last month, down from 83,536 arrests in June, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), its parent agency.
Asylum was halted at the border June 5 because arrests for illegal crossings topped a threshold of 2,500 a day, though a lack of deportation flights prevents authorities from turning away everyone. U.S. authorities say arrests dropped 55% after the measure, which followed a steep decline earlier this year that was widely attributed to Mexican authorities increasing enforcement within their borders.
“In July, our border security measures enhanced our ability to deliver consequences for illegal entry,” said Troy Miller, acting CBP commissioner.
The numbers, which were roughly in line with preliminary estimates, may give Democrats some breathing room on an issue that has dogged them throughout Joe Biden’s presidency.
“The Biden-Harris Administration has taken effective action, and the Republicans continue to do nothing,” said White House spokesman An-
gelo Fernández Hernández.
More than 38,000 people were admitted at land crossings through an online appointment system called CBP One, bringing the total to more than 765,000 since it was introduced in January 2023.
More than 520,000 people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela were admitted through July under a separate policy allowing people from those four countries to apply online with a financial sponsor and arrive at an airport. Permits were recently halted amid concerns about fraud by sponsors.
“(The Department of Homeland Security) is working to re-
start applications processing as quickly as possible, with appropriate safeguards,” CBP said in a statement.
CBP said Friday that it will expand areas where non-Mexican migrants can apply online for appointments to seek U.S. asylum on Aug. 23 to a large swath of southern Mexico.
Migrants will be able to schedule appointments on the CBP One app from the states of Chiapas and Tabasco, extending the zone from northern and central Mexico. Mexicans can apply anywhere in the country.
The move requested by Mexico could ease the strain on the Mexican government by allowing migrants to wait for their
appointments in the south farther from the U.S. border and lessen dangers for people trying to reach the U.S. border to claim asylum.
U.S. Rep. Mark Green, Republican chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, criticized the Biden administration’s new and expanded legal pathways at the border.
“This administration is orchestrating a massive shell game, encouraging otherwise-inadmissible aliens to cross at ports of entry instead of between them, thereby creating a façade of improved optics for the administration, but in reality imposing a growing burden on our communities,” he said.
Remains founds on property of missing woman’s husband
Franklin Township, Mich. Investigators discovered human remains during a search of property in southeastern Michigan that belongs to a man whose wife disappeared over three years ago and is presumed dead. Dee Warner’s family reported her missing in 2021. Her husband, Dale John Warner, 56, was charged in November with open murder and tampering with evidence in her disappearance. He has pleaded not guilty. Michigan State Police said in a statement Sunday that they recently searched Dale Warner’s property and found human remains. An autopsy was planned for Tuesday. Dale Warner remains jailed and is due in court Sept. 4.
Woman who killed sex trafficker gets 11 years in prison
Kenosha, Wis.
A Milwaukee woman who said she was legally allowed to a kill a man because he was sexually trafficking her has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. A Kenosha County judge sentenced 24-year-old Chrystul Kizer on Monday to 11 years of initial confinement followed by 5 years of extended supervision. Kizer pleaded guilty to a reduced count of second-degree reckless homicide. Prosecutors say she shot 34-year-old Randall Volar at his Kenosha home in 2018. Her attorneys said she couldn’t be held criminally liable under a state law that absolves sex trafficking victims of “any offense committed as a direct result” of being trafficked.
2 dead, 1 injured in Kentucky courthouse shooting Elizabethtown, Ky. A mother and daughter were fatally shot and another man injured near a Kentucky courthouse. The gunman later shot himself after a police highway pursuit Monday. Police in Elizabethtown say Christopher Elder was in critical condition after shooting himself. Thirtyseven-year-old Erica Riley is one of the victims and had attended a court hearing with Elder on Monday morning before the shooting. Police say the two had been in a relationship. Riley’s mother was also fatally shot. Seventy-one-year-old Janet Rylee of Hardinsburg died after being transported to a hospital. A third victim was in stable condition Monday afternoon.
JAE C. HONG / AP PHOTO
A vehicle drives along the U.S.-Mexico border wall in Nogales, Arizona, in June.
KEVIN MOHATT / AP PHOTO
catastrophe
questions about when normal
China lied about the origin of the tried to tell the world there were only worldwide panic, economic collapse and being thrown out of work.
shelter-in-place or stay-at-home majority of Americans “new normal.” end of this month.
taxpayer at least $2.4 trillion in added Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the the U.S. dollar were not the reserve to fund any of these emergency fear of rampant in ation and currency
we begin to get back to normal
The 3 big questions
The comfort
How China will pay for this COVID-19 catastrophe
WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”
ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after this COVID-19 virus dissipates around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this catastrophe one way or another.
fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to normal are treated in some circles with contempt.
WALTER E. WILLIAMS
Cooper stated during don’t know yet” if the asked as to the vague ones like “we of this state who undetermined thousands of cases asked and then had questions about get asked, there is people to treat those can start getting back or are people who sick. levels become a bad society were supposed course, is my family. I’m worried I will. After the 2009 pandemic, all of this brings up prefer not to repeat. most everyone has
Fixing college corruption
aberrant ways and decisions through Diplomacy has obviously not worked world of 21st century health, hygiene communist regimes never take the blame remorse, because that is not what They take advantage of every weakness pushing until they win or the event happens such as the Chernobyl believe that event, not the Star Wars to the dissolution of the Soviet Union Chernobyl. already talking about the possibility debt we owe them as one way to get they have caused the US. Don’t hold your “Jubilee” to happen but ask your elected accountable in tangible nancial ways for expected to operate as responsible citizens of nation.
Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl.
They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept without question what the government tells us about when it’s safe to begin the process of returning back to normalcy.
No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those questions. And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, the more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand answers.
AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with corruption. The nancial squeeze resulting from COVID-19 o ers opportunities for a bit of remediation. Let’s rst examine what might be the root of academic corruption, suggested by the title of a recent study, “Academic Grievance Studies and the Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was done by Areo, an opinion and analysis digital magazine. By the way, Areo is short for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by John Milton in defense of free speech.
Sponsored by
business & economy
In order to put the crisis caused by China in perspective, zero worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th century alone can be directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian u,” 1968 “Hong Kong u,” 1977 “Russian u” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the massive 1918 “Spanish u” pandemic also had its origins in China.
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a
Leaders at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but answer with details that give their statements believability.
We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, ourselves, and our communities safe. But we should also still continue to ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home measures are understandable, they should also have an expiration date.
17K-plus AT&T workers strike in 9 states, including N.C.
This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, shape, or form. So while we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new normal.”
Not one little bit.
Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say that something has gone drastically wrong in academia, especially within certain elds within the humanities. They call these elds “grievance studies,” where scholarship is not so much based upon nding truth but upon attending to social grievances. Grievance scholars bully students, administrators and other departments into adhering to their worldview. The worldview they promote is neither scienti c nor rigorous. Grievance studies consist of disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, gender studies, queer studies, sexuality and critical race studies.
Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. —
More than 17,000 AT&T workers in nine states across the Southeast — including North Carolina — are on strike after accusing the company of unfair labor practices during contract negotiations this summer.
the seriousness of the virus and the need uneasy with how people who simply ask when things can start getting back to circles with contempt.
as a society simply must accept without tells us about when it’s safe to begin the normalcy. us, and we have the right to ask those stay-at-home orders are in place all over the them get in states, such as Michigan, feeling isolated and/or anxious about providing for their families, will demand levels should be as forthcoming as they and again, not vague answers, but answer statements believability. what we can to keep our families, safe. But we should also still continue because while reasonable stay-at-home they should also have an expiration date. and it is not normal. Not in any way, should remain vigilant and stay safe, at comfortable with this so-called “new
The Communications Workers of America — the union representing the striking employees — said workers walked off the job last Friday in response to AT&T’s failure to bargain in good faith. Workers have been attempting to reach a new contract since June. The labor organization said AT&T did not send representatives to the bargaining table who had the authority to make decisions and that the company has reneged on agreements made in bargaining.
In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, Lindsay and Boghossian started submitting bogus academic papers to academic journals in cultural, queer, race, gender, fat and sexuality studies to determine if they would pass peer review and be accepted for publication. Acceptance of dubious research that journal editors found sympathetic to their intersectional or postmodern leftist vision of the world would prove the problem of low academic standards.
“Our union entered into negotiations in a good faith effort to reach a fair contract, but we have been met at the table by company representatives who were unable to explain their bargaining proposals and did not seem to have the actual bargaining authority required by the legal obligation to bargain in good faith,” Richard Honeycutt, vice president of CWA District 3 in the Southeast, said in a statement.
written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah RedState and Legal Insurrection.
The strike involves AT&T technicians, customer service representatives and others who install, maintain and support AT&T’s residential and business wireline telecommunications network. It affects Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee workers.
Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.
Several of the fake research papers were accepted for publication. The Fat Studies journal published a hoax paper that argued the term bodybuilding was exclusionary and should be replaced with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive politicized performance.” One reviewer said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article and believe it has an important contribution to make to the eld and this journal.”
The union filed an unfair labor practice complaint with the National Labor Relations Board.
AT&T denied the union’s accusations.
A woman died after eating at a restaurant that offered “allergen-free food”
By Philip Marcelo The Associated Press
“Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was accepted for publication by A lia, a feminist journal for social workers. The paper consisted in part of a rewritten passage from Mein Kampf. Two other hoax papers were published, including “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape paper eventually forced Boghossian, Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer had gured out what they were doing.
Some papers accepted for publication in academic journals advocated training men like dogs and punishing white male college students for historical slavery by asking them to sit in silence on the oor in chains during class and to be expected to learn from the discomfort. Other papers celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life choice and advocated treating privately conducted masturbation as a form of sexual violence against women. Typically, academic journal editors send submitted papers out to referees for review. In recommending acceptance for publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing praise.
“CWA’s claims of unfair labor practices are not grounded in fact. We have been engaged in substantive bargaining since Day One and are eager to reach an agreement that benefits our hard-working employees,” the company said in an emailed statement. AT&T said it reached three separate agreements covering more than 13,000 employees this year.
On Monday, the labor union accused AT&T of “sending undertrained managers and contractors to perform highly technical work” during the strike. AT&T said it has “various business continuity measures in place to avoid disruptions to operations and will continue to provide our customers with the great service they expect.”
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month.
Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.
We need transparency and honesty from our
There is 100% agreement, outside of China, that COVID-19 originated in Wuhan Province probably from the completely unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. Some believe it came out of a
Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of
“THIS IS in it” (Psalm I know that working from be glad” as and dad, the have to be pandemic.
THIS WEEK, according to members and state and local governments, Americans the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak. muted — after all, trends can easily reverse have abided by recommendations and orders. to stay at home; they’ve practiced social they’ve donned masks.
If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like must do this out of an abundance of caution.”
The result: a reduction in expected hospitalization According to the University of Washington Metrics and Evaluation model most oft Trump administration, the expected need peak outbreak was revised down by over ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the number
It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of
To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about
The cavalier manner virus, covered up its spread 3,341 related deaths has millions of Americans needlessly The crisis has cost the debt plus trillions more markets and nancial outlets. currency, we would not measures without immediate depreciation. China has to pay for their economic and nancial to bring China into the and fair trade. Totalitarian or express sincere regret totalitarian governments they nd in adversaries adversaries push back. That is, unless an exogenous meltdown in 1986. Some program of Reagan, led
Here’s the problem: We still don’t know questions that will allow the economy to
First, what is the true coronavirus fatality important because it determines whether be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue more liberalized society that presumes wide
Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.
AFor me, making. As Corinthians a iction, so a iction, with God.” If you are re ect on this God’s example this di cult con dent we In this same neighbors In Concord, money to buy health care
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
NEW YORK — Disney is no longer asking a Florida court to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit on the grounds that the victim’s family had signed up for its streaming service Disney+.
The company filed a notice in Orange County court on Tuesday to withdraw the motion, which had drawn swift backlash when it became public. Josh D’Amaro, chairperson of Disney’s theme park division, said in a statement emailed earlier to The Associated Press that the entertainment giant will waive its arbitration rights and allow the suit, brought by the husband of a New York doctor who suffered a fatal allergic reaction after eating at a restaurant in Disney Springs, to proceed in court.
“At Disney, we strive to put humanity above all other considerations,” he said in the Mon-
Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran certain grievance studies concepts through the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often they appeared in our press over the years. He found huge increases in the usages of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” “critical race theory” and “whiteness.”
All of this is being taught to college students, many of whom become primary and secondary school teachers who then indoctrinate our young people.
Democratic leaders try to prove they’re tough on crime, but some reject harsh sentencing
I doubt whether the coronaviruscaused nancial crunch will give college and university administrators, who are a crossbreed between a parrot and jelly sh, the guts and backbone to restore academic respectability. Far too often, they get much of their political support from campus grievance people who are members of the faculty and diversity and multicultural administrative o ces.
By Tran Nguyen The Associated Press
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
The best hope lies with boards of trustees, though many serve as yes-men for the university president. I think that a good start would be to nd 1950s or 1960s catalogs. Look at the course o erings at a time when college graduates knew how to read, write and compute, and make them today’s curricula. Another helpful tool would be to give careful consideration to eliminating all classes/majors/minors containing the word “studies,” such as women, Asian, black or queer studies. I’d bet that by restoring the traditional academic mission to colleges, they would put a serious dent into the COVID-19 budget shortfall.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bipartisan package of 10 bills to crack down on smash-and-grab robberies and property crimes. The bills would make pursuing repeat shoplifters and auto thieves easier and increase penalties for those running professional reselling schemes. The move comes as Democratic leadership works to prove they’re tough enough on crime while trying to convince voters to reject a ballot measure that would bring even harsher sentences for repeat offenders of shoplifting and drug charges.
While shoplifting has been a growing problem, largescale, smash-and-grab thefts, in which groups brazenly rush
Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed
April 15,
My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat.
We’ve seen case fatality rates — the number the number of identi ed COVID-19 cases and the denominator are likely wrong. We people have actually died of coronavirus. number has been overestimated, given that of death, particularly among elderly patients, sources suggest the number is dramatically many people are dying at home.
Perhaps COVID-19 is Senators in Washington of China forgiving $1.2 China to “pay” for the damage breath waiting for a Chinese representatives to hold It is about time they are the world like any other
But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone
Hill, senio
Even more importantly, we have no clue actually have coronavirus. Some scientists of identi ed cases could be an order of magnitude number of people who have had coronavirus
Disney drops bid to have lawsuit tossed due to streaming sign-off
It’s okay to ask questions about when we begin to get back to normal
The comfort and hope
WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”
day night statement. “With such unique circumstances as the ones in this case, we believe this situation warrants a sensitive approach to expedite a resolution for the family who have experienced such a painful loss.”
“THIS IS THE DAY the lord has made, in it” (Psalm 118:24).
Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.
porations like Disney to avoid jury trials should be looked at with skepticism.”
Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if the state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.
Disney had previously argued that Jeffrey Piccolo could not sue the company because he agreed to settle any lawsuits against the company out of court when he signed up for a one-month trial subscription to Disney+ back in 2019.
I know that during this challenging time working from home or losing a job, it may be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. However, and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded have to be thankful and hopeful for, even pandemic.
If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we must do this out of an abundance of caution.”
ly defending itself against Piccolo’s attempt to include the company in his lawsuit against Raglan Road, the Irish pub in Disney Springs where the family dined.
It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases are reliable.
Brian Denney, Piccolo’s Florida-based lawyer, said Tuesday that his client will continue to “pursue justice on behalf of his beloved wife” and hopes that their ordeal has helped raised awareness of the challenges people with food allergies face.
In a response filed earlier this month, Denney had argued that it was “absurd” to believe that the more than 150 million subscribers to Disney+ have waived all rights to sue the company and its affiliates in perpetuity because of language “buried” in the fine print.
fallen into place. I understand to take precautions, but questions about the data, normal are treated in some They’re treated as though question what the government process of returning back No. The government questions. And the longer country, and the stricter the more people, sitting when they can get back answers.
For me, my faith is an important part making. As I celebrated Easter with my Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord a iction, so that we may be able to comfort a iction, with the comfort which we ourselves God.”
To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about the data. State Republican leaders have, too.
He also noted that others seeking to take Disney to court risk facing a similar legal challenge as the arbitration provision remains in many of the company’s terms and conditions.
The company, in its bid to have the lawsuit dismissed, argued Piccolo had not agreed just to the arbitration terms in his Disney+ trial, but also again when he signed up for an account on Disney’s website and app in order to purchase the couple’s tickets for their ill-fated theme park visit.
Spokespersons for the restaurant didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. Disney Springs is owned by Disney, which leases some of the spaces in the outdoor dining, shopping and entertainment complex to other companies.
Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.
Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of hope that we will once again enjoy sporting events, concerts, family gatherings, church services and many more after our own temporary sacri ces are over.
Leaders at the local and can be with those answers with details that give their
We should all continue ourselves, and our communities to ask questions about the measures are understandable,
Piccolo’s lawsuit claims the family had decided to eat at Raglan Road in October because it was billed on Disney’s website as having “allergen free food.”
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
Both sides had been slated to make their case before a judge in Orlando on Oct. 2. That hearing was canceled Tuesday.
My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat.
“The right to a jury trial as set forth in the Seventh Amendment is a bedrock of our judicial system and should be protected and preserved,” Denney wrote in an email. “Attempts by cor-
Arbitration allows people to settle disputes without going to court and generally involves a neutral arbitrator who reviews arguments and evidence before making a binding decision, or award.
Disney, in a follow-up statement to The Associated Press last week, said that it was mere-
California laws aim to reduce car thefts, smash-and-grab
robberies, shoplifting
into stores and take goods in plain sight, have become a crisis in California and elsewhere in recent years. Often captured on video and posted on social media, such crimes have brought particular attention to the state’s retail theft problem.
The Democratic governor said the legislation includes the most significant changes to address retail theft in years. It allows law enforcement to combine the value of goods stolen from different victims to impose harsher penalties and ar-
If you are celebrating the Easter season, re ect on this message and be comforted, God’s example and comfort all those in this di cult time. Through faith and by con dent we will emerge out of this pandemic In this same spirit, I continue to be inspired neighbors helping neighbors. In Concord, a high school senior named money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic health care workers out of his own home.
This is all new to Americans, shape, or form. So while the same time we shouldn’t normal.”
Piccolo’s wife, Dr. Kanokporn Tangsuan, a physician with NYU Langone’s office in Carle Place, New York, had a severe allergy to nuts and dairy products, and the waiter had assured them her food was prepared without allergens, the lawsuit states.
But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has
Not one little bit.
Stacey Matthews has also and is a regular contributor
But less than an hour after finishing their dinner, Tangsuan had difficulty breathing, collapsed and died at a hospital, despite self-administering an EpiPen, according to the lawsuit.
rest people for shoplifting using video footage or witness statements.
“This goes to the heart of the issue, and it does it thoughtfully and judiciously,” Newsom said of the package. “This is the real deal.”
The package received bipartisan support from the legislature, though some progressive Democrats did not vote for it, citing concerns that some measures are too punitive.
The legislation also cracks down on cargo thefts, closes a legal loophole to make it easier to prosecute auto thefts and requires marketplaces like eBay and Nextdoor to start collecting bank accounts and tax identification numbers from high-volume sellers. Under one of the bills, retailers can also obtain restraining orders against convicted shoplifters.
“We know that retail theft has consequences, big and small, physical and financial,” state Sen. Nancy Skinner, who authored one of the bills, said last Friday. “And we know we have to take the right steps to stop it without returning to the days of mass incarceration.” Democratic lawmakers, led by Newsom, spent months earlier this year unsuccessfully
COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON
STEVEN SENNE / AP PHOTO
A food allergy death lawsuit at a Disney-owned pub raised questions about the power of reading the fine print.
RAY CHAVEZ / BAY AREA NEWS GROUP VIA AP
California Gov. Gavin Newsom prepares to sign bills to combat retail crime at Home Depot in San Jose, California, last Friday.
Harris offers inflation fix with ‘price gouging’ ban
Grocery prices have shot up 21%, raising overall costs by about 19%
By Christopher Rugaber
The Associated Press
WITH INFLATION and high grocery prices still frustrating many voters, Vice President Kamala Harris proposed a ban on “price gouging” by food suppliers and grocery stores as part of a broader agenda to lower the cost of housing, medicine and food.
It’s an attempt to tackle Harris’s apparent vulnerability head-on: Under the Biden-Harris administration, grocery prices have shot up 21%, part of an inflation surge that has raised overall costs by about 19% and soured many Americans on the economy, even as unemployment fell to historic lows.
“We all know that prices went up during the pandemic when the supply chains shut down and failed,” Harris said Friday in Raleigh. “But our supply chains have improved, and prices are still too high.”
So what is price gouging?
Economists would disagree on a strict definition, but gouging generally refers to spikes in prices that typically follow a disruption in supply, such as after a hurricane or other natural disaster. Consumer advocates
“It’s a heavy-handed socialist policy that I don’t think any economist would support.”
Kevin Hassett, former Trump economic adviser
charge that gouging occurs when retailers sharply increase prices, particularly for necessities, under such circumstances.
Several states have already restricted price gouging, but no federal-level ban exists.
Federal restrictions exist on related but different practices, such as price-fixing laws that bar companies from agreeing not to compete against each other and set higher prices.
Most economists would say Harris’ plan would not lower grocery prices, though it could impact future crises. For one thing, how much price gouging is happening right now needs to be clarified. Grocery prices are still painfully high compared to four years ago, but they increased just 1.1% in July compared with a year earlier, according to the most recent inflation report. That is in line with prepandemic increases.
President Joe Biden said inflation was defeated after last Wednesday’s report showed it
Freak storm sinks superyacht off Sicily; British tech magnate among missing
Mike Lynch was acquitted in June of fraud and conspiracy charges
By Nicole Winfield
The Associated Press
ROME — British tech magnate Mike Lynch and several other people were among those missing after their luxury superyacht sank during a freak storm off Sicily early Monday, Italy’s civil protection and authorities said. Lynch’s wife and 14 other people survived.
Lynch, who was acquitted in June in a big U.S. fraud trial, was among the six people who remain unaccounted for after their chartered sailboat sank off Porticello when a tornado over the water known as a waterspout struck the area overnight, said Salvo Cocina of Sicily’s civil protection agency.
One body has been recovered, and police divers were trying to reach the hull of the ship, which was resting at a depth of 163 feet off Porticello, near Palermo, where it had been anchored.
The Italian coast guard said the ship had a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers. A sudden fierce storm had battered the area overnight and struck precisely where the 184-foot
THEFTS from page A9
fighting to keep a tougher-oncrime initiative off the November ballot. That ballot measure, Proposition 36, would make it a felony for repeat shoplifters and some drug charges, among other things. Democrats worried the measure would disproportionately criminalize low-income people and those with substance use issues rather than target ringleaders who hire large groups of people to steal goods for them to resell online. Lawmakers’ legislation instead would allow prosecutors to com-
fell to 2.9% in July, the smallest increase in three years.
“There’s some dissonance between claiming victory on the inflation front in one breath and then arguing that there’s all this price gouging happening that is leading consumers to face really high prices in another breath,” said Michael Strain, an economist at the American Enterprise Institute. Sustained price declines typically only happen in steep, protracted recessions. Instead, economists generally argue that the better approach is for wages to keep rising enough so that Americans can handle the higher costs.
Still, inflation remains a highly salient political issue, and plenty of voters blame grocery stores, fast food chains, and food and packaged goods makers for the surge of inflation in the past three years. Corporate profits soared in 2021 and 2022.
“It could be that they’re looking at opinion polls that show that the No. 1 concern facing voters is inflation and that many voters blame corporations for inflation,” Strain said.
At the same time, even if prices aren’t going up as much, as Harris noted, they remain high, even as supply chain kinks have been resolved.
Elizabeth Pancotti, a policy analyst at Roosevelt Forward, a progressive advocacy group,
points to the wood pulp used in diapers. Although wood pulp prices have fallen by half from its post-pandemic peak, diaper prices haven’t. “So that just increases the (profit) margins for both the manufacturers and the retailers,” she said.
Most economists would say price gouging hasn’t caused inflation, that it was a more straightforward case of supply and demand. When the pandemic hit, meat processing plants were occasionally closed after COVID-19 outbreaks, among other disruptions to supply. At the same time, several rounds of stimulus checks fattened Americans’ bank accounts, and after hunkering down during the early phase of the pandemic, so-called “revenge spending” took over. The combination of more robust demand and reduced supply was a recipe for rising prices. “What a
lot of corporations did was exploit consumers’ willingness” to accept the disruptions from the pandemic, Pancotti said. Still, some economists have argued that ample food and consumer goods companies took advantage of pandemic-era disruptions. Consumers saw empty store shelves and heard numerous stories about disrupted supply chains, and at least temporarily felt they had little choice but to accept the higher prices. Economist Isabella Weber at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, called it “seller’s inflation.” Others referred to it as “greedflation.” Other economists say Harris’ proposal would have a similar impact. “It’s a heavy-handed socialist policy that I don’t think any economist would support,” said Kevin Hassett, a former top economic adviser in the Trump White House.
British-flagged Bayesian had been moored.
“They were in the wrong place at the wrong time,” said Cocina, noting that another superyacht nearby wasn’t as badly damaged and could rescue some of the 15 survivors, including Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares.
The Bayesian was known for its single 246-foot mast, one of the world’s tallest made of aluminum and lit up at night, just hours before it sank. Online charter sites list it for rent for up to 195,000 euros (about $215,000) weekly.
One of the survivors, identified as Charlotte Emsley, said she had momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated, and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported, quoting the mother. The father, James Emsley, also survived, said Cocina.
Eight of the 15 people rescued and taken ashore at Porticello were hospitalized, while the others were taken to a hotel. One body believed to be the cook was found near the wreck, but six others were unaccounted for and believed to be inside the hull, said Luca Cari, a spokesperson for the Italian fire rescue service.
bine multiple thefts at different locations for a felony charge and stiffen penalties for smash-andgrabs and large-scale reselling operations.
In June, Newsom even proposed putting a competing measure on the ballot but dropped the plan a day later. Proposition 36 is backed by a coalition of district attorneys, businesses and some local elected officials, such as San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Newsom, flanked by a bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers, business leaders and local officials in a Home Depot store in San Jose, said the ballot mea-
Rescue crews located the vessel, and Cari said deep-water police divers were trying to access the hull. The operations, visible from shore, involved helicopters and rescue boats from the Coast Guard, fire rescue and civil protection service.
Fisherman Francesco Cefalu said he had seen a flare from shore at around 4:30 a.m. and immediately set out to the site. However, by the time he got there, the Bayesian had already sunk, with only cushions, wood and other items from the superyacht floating in the water.
“But for the rest, we didn’t find anyone,” he said from the port hours later. He said he immediately alerted the Coast Guard and stayed on site for three hours but found no survivors. “I think they are inside, all the missing people.”
He said he had been up ear -
sure would be “a devastating setback” for California. Newsom said last month he will work to fight the measure.
“That initiative is about going back to the 1980s and the war on drugs,” he said. “It’s about mass incarceration.”
In recent years, tackling crimes in California has become increasingly difficult for state Democrats. Many have spent the last decade championing progressive policies to depopulate jails and prisons and invest in rehabilitation programs. Newsom’s administration has also spent $267 million to help
ly to check the weather to see if he could go fishing and surmised that a sudden waterspout had struck the yacht.
“It could be that the mast broke, or the anchor at the prow pulled it, I don’t know,” he said.
Cocina said the crew and passengers hailed from various countries: In addition to Britain, passengers and crew were from Antigua, France, Germany, Ireland, Myanmar, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain.
Lynch, once hailed as Britain’s king of technology, was cleared in June of fraud and conspiracy charges related to Hewlett Packard’s $11 billion takeover of his company, Autonomy Corp.
The not-guilty verdicts followed an 11-week criminal trial in San Francisco that delved into the history of HP’s 2011 acquisition of Autonomy, a
dozens of local law enforcement agencies increase patrols, buy surveillance equipment and prosecute more criminals.
The issue hit a boiling point this year amid mounting criticism from Republicans and law enforcement, who point to viral videos of large-scale thefts where groups of individuals brazenly rush into stores and take goods in plain sight. Voters across the state are also vexed over what they see as a lawless California where retail crimes and drug abuse run rampant as the state grapples with a homelessness crisis.
business software firm founded by Lynch. The fraud accusations represented a dramatic turn in the fortunes of an entrepreneur once described as the Bill Gates of Britain — a title he seemed to live up to when he netted $800 million from the Autonomy sale.
The acquittal vindicated Lynch, who had vehemently denied wrongdoing and portrayed HP as a technological train wreck.
“I’m looking forward to returning to the UK and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field,” Lynch said in a statement released after the verdict.
According to Charter World and Yacht Charters, the yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, can accommodate 12 passengers in four double cabins, a triple and the master suite, plus crew accommodations.
As the issue could affect Congress’s makeup and control, some Democrats broke with party leadership and said they supported Proposition 36, the tough-on-crime approach. It’s hard to quantify the retail crime issue in California because of the need for more local data. However, many point to significant store closures and everyday products like toothpaste being locked behind plexiglass as evidence of a crisis. The California Retailers Association said it’s challenging to quantify the issue in California because many stores need to share their data.
LUCIO GANCI / AP PHOTO
Rescuers work where the UK flag vessel Bayesian sunk early Monday while at anchor off the Sicilian village of Porticello near Palermo in southern Italy.
TONY GUTIERREZ / AP PHOTO Vice President Kamala Harris proposed a ban on “price gouging” by food suppliers and grocery stores.
Trump, Harris federal tip tax proposals prove challenging
It would be complicated and costly to the federal government to enact
By Dee-Ann Durbin
The Associated Press
FORMER PRESIDENT
Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris agree on one thing at least: Both say they want to eliminate federal taxes on workers’ tips.
But experts say there’s a reason Congress hasn’t made such a change already. It would be complicated, not to mention enormously costly to the federal government, to enact. It would encourage many higher-paid workers to restructure their compensation to classify some of it as “tips” and thereby avoid taxes. And, in the end, it likely wouldn’t help millions of low-income workers.
“There’s no way that it wouldn’t be a mess,” said James Hines Jr., a professor of law and economics and the research director of the Office of Tax Policy Research at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.
Both candidates unveiled their plans in Nevada, a state with one of the highest concentrations of tipped service workers in the country. Trump announced a proposal to exclude tips from federal taxes on June 9. Harris announced
a similar proposal on Aug. 10.
Details have been sparse. Neither candidate’s team has said whether it would exempt tips only from income taxes, only from payroll taxes or both. The payroll tax funds Social Security and Medicare.
Harris’ campaign has said she would work with Congress to draft a proposal that would include an income limit and other provisions to prevent abuses by wealthy individuals who might seek to structure their compensation to classify certain fees as tips.
Her campaign said these requirements, which it did not specify, would be intended “to prevent hedge fund managers and lawyers from structuring their compensation in ways to try to take advantage of the policy.” Trump’s campaign has not said whether its proposal would include any such requirements.
Even so, Hines suggested that millions of workers — not just wealthy ones — would seek to change their compensation to include tips and could even do so legally. For example, he said, a company might set up a separate entity that would reward its employees with tips instead of yearend bonuses.
“You will have taxpayers pushing their attorneys to try to characterize their wage and salary income as tips,” Hines said. “And some would be suc -
“There’s no way that it wouldn’t be a mess.”
James Hines Jr., University of Michigan law and conomics professor
cessful, inevitably, because it’s impossible to write foolproof rules that will cover every situation.”
Republican supporters of Trump argue that Hines’ concerns are overblown. Darin Miller, a spokesman for Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, said the Internal Revenue Service has a precise definition for tips and contended that reclassifying wages would be considered fraud.
Miller noted that some Democrats have signed on to co-sponsor a bill Cruz introduced in June that would exempt tips from federal income taxes. A bill exempting tips from payroll and income taxes has also been introduced in the House.
Though supporters say the measures are designed to help low-wage workers, many experts say that making tips taxfree would provide only limited help to those workers.
The Budget Lab at Yale, a nonpartisan policy research center, estimates there were 4 million U.S. workers in tipped occupations in 2023. That
Perdue Foods recalls 167K pounds of chicken nuggets, tenders
Customers reported finding metal wire embedded in the processed products
The Associated Press
NEW YORK — Check your freezer. Perdue Foods recalled more than 167,000 pounds of frozen chicken nuggets and tenders after some customers reported finding metal wire embedded in the products.
According to Perdue and the U.S. Agriculture Department’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the recall covers select lots of three products: Perdue Breaded Chicken Tenders, Butcher Box Organic Chicken Breast Nuggets and Perdue Simply Smart Organics Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets.
FSIS and Perdue determined that some 167,171 pounds of these products may be contaminated with a foreign material after receiving an unspecified number of custom-
er complaints. In a Friday announcement, Maryland-based Perdue said the material was “identified in a limited number of consumer packages.”
The company later “determined the material to be a very thin strand of metal wire that was inadvertently intro -
duced into the manufacturing process,” Jeff Shaw, Perdue’s senior vice president of food safety and quality, said in a prepared statement. Shaw added that Perdue recalled all impacted packages “out of an abundance of caution.”
According to FSIS and Per-
amounted to about 2.5% of all employees, including restaurant servers and beauticians.
Tipped workers tend to be younger, with an average age of 31, and of lower income. The Budget Lab said the median weekly pay for tipped workers in 2023 was $538, compared with roughly $1,000 for nontipped workers.
As a result, many tipped workers already bear a lower income tax burden. In 2022, 37% of tipped workers had incomes low enough that they paid no federal income tax at all, The Budget Lab said.
“If the issue is you’re concerned about low-income taxpayers, there are a lot better ways to address that problem, like expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit or changing tax rates or changing deductions,” Hines said.
In her speech in Nevada, Harris also called for raising the federal minimum wage. (The platform on Trump’s campaign site doesn’t mention the minimum wage.)
Changing federal tax policy on tips would also be costly. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a nonpartisan group, estimates that exempting all tip income from federal income and payroll taxes would reduce revenue by $150 billion to $250 billion between 2026 and 2035. And it said that amount could rise significantly if the policy changed behavior and more people declared tip income.
Whether Trump or Harris wins the presidential election, tax policy will be high on Congress’ agenda in 2025. That’s because Trump-era tax cuts, passed in 2017, are set to expire.
due, no confirmed injuries or adverse reactions have been tied to eating these products. Still, FSIS is concerned that the products may be in consumers’ freezers. The now-recalled tenders and nuggets can be identified by product codes listed on Perdue and FSIS’s online notices. All three impacted products have a best-if-used-by date of March 23, 2025, and establishment number “P-33944” on the back of the package. They were sold at retailers nationwide.
Consumers who have the recalled chicken are urged to throw it away or return the product to its place of purchase. Perdue offers full refunds to impacted consumers who can call the company at 866-866-3703.
Foreign object contamination is one of the top reasons for food recalls in the U.S. today. Last November, Tyson Foods recalled nearly 30,000 pounds of chicken nuggets after consumers found metal pieces in the dinosaur-shaped products. Beyond metal, plastic fragments, rocks, bits of insects and more “extraneous” materials have prompted recalls by making their way into packaged goods.
X to suspend Brazil operations, alleging ‘censorship orders’ from Supreme Court justice
The company is removing all remaining Brazil staff “effective immediately”
The Associated Press
MEXICO CITY — Social media platform X said it would close its operations in Brazil on Saturday, claiming that Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes threatened to arrest its legal representative if they did not comply with orders. X is removing all remaining Brazil staff in the country “effective immediately,” though the company said the service will still be available to the people of Brazil. The company did not clarify how it could claim to suspend operations while continuing to provide services to Brazilians. Earlier this year, the company clashed with de Moraes over free speech, far-right accounts and misinformation on X. The company said his most recent
orders amounted to censorship and shared a copy of the document on X.
The Supreme Court’s press office waited to respond to Associated Press email requests on Saturday seeking comment or
confirmation of the document’s veracity. In the United States, free speech is a constitutional right that’s much more permissive than in many countries, including Brazil, where de Moraes
U.S. settles with Icahn for $1.5M in personal loans case
Billionaire Carl Icahn and his company were charged by U.S. regulators with failing to disclose personal loans worth billions of dollars that were obtained using securities of Icahn Enterprises as collateral. The Securities and Exchange Commission said Monday that Icahn Enterprises and Icahn have agreed to pay $1.5 million and $500,000 in civil penalties to settle the charges. The agency said that from at least Dec. 31, 2018, to the present, Icahn pledged approximately 51% to 82% of Icahn Enterprises’ outstanding securities as collateral to secure personal loans with several lenders.
Couche-Tard offers
7-Eleven chain
owner buy-out bid
The owner of 7-Eleven convenience stores has received a buyout offer from Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard.
Japan’s Seven & i Holdings on Monday said that a special committee made up of outside directors has been formed to review the bid but released no other details. Shares of Seven & i jumped 23% in Tokyo, the largest single-day jump for the stock in the company’s history. The company has been trying to streamline operations, and last year, it sold the department store chain Sogo & Seibu Co. to a U.S. investment fund.
Chipmaker AMD to buy ZT Systems for $4.9B AMD is buying server maker ZT Systems in a cashand-stock deal worth $4.9 billion. The chipmaker is strengthening its artificial intelligence capacity in an effort to compete with Nvidia. Once the deal closes, ZT Systems will join the AMD Data Center Solutions Business Group. AMD said Monday it sold its U.S.-based data center infrastructure manufacturing business. The transaction, which was approved by AMD’s board, is expected to close in the first half of next year.
Judge blocks Fox, ESPN, Warner from joint sports streaming venture
The launch of Venu Sports will be delayed after a federal judge granted FuboTV’s motion for a preliminary injunction against the planned sports streaming venture by ESPN, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery. United States District Judge Margaret M. Garnett in the Southern District of New York said in her 69-page ruling that Fubo would likely prove that the joint venture would violate antitrust laws successfully. Fubo TV filed the lawsuit two weeks after ESPN, Fox, Warner Bros. Discovery and Hulu announced their plans to offer a sports streaming service on Feb. 6.
in April ordered an investigation into CEO Elon Musk over the dissemination of defamatory fake news and another probe over possible obstruction, incitement and criminal organization.
Brazil’s political right has long characterized de Moraes as overstepping his bounds to clamp down on free speech and engage in political persecution. Whether investigating former President Jair Bolsonaro, banishing his far-right allies from social media or ordering the arrest of supporters who stormed government buildings on Jan. 8, 2023, de Moraes has aggressively pursued those he views as undermining Brazil’s young democracy.
The company said in a statement on X that “(de) Moraes has chosen to threaten our staff in Brazil rather than respect the law or due process.”
In a tweet Saturday morning, Musk said de Moraes “is an utter disgrace to justice.”
Organic Chicken Breast Nuggets and Perdue Simply Smart Organics Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets.
JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO
Elon Musk’s company, X, has clashed with Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes over free speech, far-right accounts and misinformation.
Winston’s The dB’s re-release acclaimed debut album, ‘Stands for deciBels’
The 1981 album shook the musical landscape
By Dan Reeves North State Journal
THE DB’S ARE a New York City band — that’s the first and last thing Peter Holsapple will tell you. While he, Chris Stamey, drummer Will Rigby and bassist Gene Holder do hail from Winston-Salem, the definitive sound of The dB’s coalesced in NYC. But Winston is where influences began to shape what later became one of the state’s and country’s most iconic figures in alternative music.
“We were in a city with a very strong musical presence, particularly in the late ’60s and early ’70s,” Holsapple recalls. “On Saturday mornings, hundreds of kids would be dropped off at the Old Carolina Theater with a $5 bill in their pockets for hours to watch a movie, play bingo and maybe win a six-pack of Coca-Cola and see a local rock band. And that was my Saturday morning for years, which was remarkable.”
In 1970, childhood friends Holsapple and Stamey formed Rittenhouse Square, which happened to include another Winston-Salemite, Mitch Easter, who would later produce R.E.M.’s “Chronic Town” and “Murmur” and front Let’s Active, another influential band to arise from the Piedmont in the late ’80s. In 1972, Rittenhouse Square released an independent album recorded at Crescent City Sound Studios in Greensboro. After Rittenhouse Square’s dissolution, Holsapple and Rigby, friends since third grade, formed Little Diesel, a proto-punk rock band that ran against the tastes of Southern rock. “N.C.’s first punk band,” said Holsapple.
New York came calling in the late ’70s. Stamey had arrived on the scene playing with Alex Chilton’s Big Star, and drummer Will Rigby and bassist Gene Holder followed shortly after.
“We were really into New
York and the New Wave scene. I was ready to go, and once I got there, I wasn’t going anywhere.” Rigby said.
The genesis of The dB’s began to jell, and Holsapple, living in Memphis, was invited to “audition” as keyboardist. “I got a call from Will saying that they wanted me to come up and audition on keyboards. So I came up and auditioned on keyboards, and that was it. Well, I guess I was in the band. And there you go,” he laughed. In 1981, The dB’s — now fully formed — released their debut studio album, “Stands for deciBels,” which shook the musical landscape and earned the quartet critical acclaim as power pop pioneers. Pitchfork Mag-
PEN & PAPER PURSUITS
azine cited the record among its 100 Top Albums of the 1980s. AllMusic applauded “a reverence for British pop and arty post-punk leanings … rarely is experimentation so enjoyable and irresistibly catchy” and said The dB’s were “the band that bridged the gap between classic ’70s power pop … and the jangly new wave of smart pop personified by R.E.M.” In The Village Voice’s year-end Pazz & Jop poll, “Stands for deciBels” was voted by critics as the 26th-best album of 1981.
R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills calls his first listen to The dB’s’ “Stands for deciBels” a defining moment in his — and his band’s — genesis: “This is the one that let me know we weren’t alone,
that there were others out there with the same curiosity, the same willingness to dive into melody, structure and pop sensibility with no fear, no reserve, only joy and well-deserved excitement. I still love listening to ‘Stands for deciBels,’ and I always will,” he said.
Following the critical success of “Stands for deciBels,” The dB’s creative output continued through the 1980s with three follow-up records: “Repercussion,” “Like This” and “The Sound of Music,” and 1994’s “Paris Avenue.” In 2012, they released “Falling off the Sky,” with Rigby, Holsapple, Stamey and Holder working on various creative musical projects to fill the gaps between reunions.
In June, Chapel Hill’s Propeller Sound Recordings reissued “Stands for deciBels” on CD, and for the first time, it was released on vinyl in the United States. The dB’s are kicking off a short tour to celebrate the re-release at Hopscotch Music Festival in Raleigh on Sept. 7, followed by shows throughout the Southeast, Midwest and California.
“I hope that they hear what we’re playing and they like what they hear,” Holsapple said of playing to a new, younger audience. “I hope they understand the melodies, the harmonies, the chords, the drum patterns and the bass lines. It’s high-quality music for anyone of any age.”
COURTESY LINDSAY METIVIER
The dB’s are, from left, Will Rigby, Chris Stamey, Gene Holder and Peter Holsapple.
How will college football teams in NC fare? B3
SOCCER
Reus joins LA Galaxy of MLS after 12 years with Borussia Dortmund
Los Angeles
Marco Reus is heading to the MLS with the LA Galaxy after a lengthy career in his Germany. The 35-yearold midfielder left Borussia Dortmund in May after 12 years with his hometown club. LA acquired Reus’ rights from Charlotte FC for $400,000 in general allocation money. He had been in talks about a move to Charlotte before he chose the Galaxy.
TENNIS
NCAA rules prohibit incoming Michigan State tennis player from cashing in at US Open
New York
Raleigh’s Matthew Forbes won the USTA 18-under singles boys national title to earn a spot in the U.S. Open later this month. If Forbes enrolls as planned for his freshman year at Michigan State, he can’t cash in on the minimum of $100,000 in prize money from the Grand Slam tennis tournament. Forbes beat Jack Kennedy in a four-set match to get a wild-card entry. NCAA rules limit Forbes to actual and necessary expenses such as meals, lodging, coaching and equipment.
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
UNC adds transfer Claude from Georgia Tech
Chapel Hill
A week before the start of the fall semester, UNC’s men’s basketball program added an incoming transfer. Forward Tyzhaun Claude, of Goldsboro, received a waiver to play a sixth NCAA season and announced last week he would complete his college career with the Tar Heels. Claude played three years at Morehead State, but two of them were cut short by injury. He then transferred to Western Carolina for a season and played for Georgia Tech last year.
Panthers roster long shots look to beat the odds
With starters sitting out again, dark horses step into the spotlight for Carolina
By Shawn Krest North State Journal
LAST WEEK, we looked at how the Panthers’ draft picks performed in the team’s first preseason game. Fourth-round tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders and fifth-round cornerback Chau Smith-Wade continued their strong preseasons, adding to an ever-growing list of big plays in the game against the Jets.
However, this week, we focus on roster long shots — the
undrafted free agents, longtime practice squadders and training camp fodder trying to survive final cuts and make the 53-man roster.
With the Panthers again resting the vast majority of their starters — as well as a good chunk of the draft class — in the second preseason game, the dark horses had their chance to step into the spotlight in the home game against the Jets. Wide receiver — Jalen Coker: The two-time All-Patriot League player went undrafted out of Holy Cross, but he’s impressed in camp and had some moments in the preseason opener at New England. He’s trying to beat out 2021
second-round pick Terrace Marshall, 2023 second-rounder Jonathan Mingo, veteran David Moore and return specialist Ihmir Smith-Marsette for the final receiver spot. Mingo had a long gain on a bubble screen that was wiped out on an offensive interference penalty on Smith-Marsette. Both Mingo and SmithMarsette also suffered losses on run plays. For the second straight week, Moore has failed to impress receiving or as a return man. His only positive gain was wiped out by penalty, and he had a dropped pass and ran into his own man on a punt return. Coker couldn’t squeeze through the door the rest of the competition left open, however. He blew up a screen pass to a teammate when he couldn’t hold his block, and his first time as a target came in the final minute of the third quarter. He did have one good catch and run for a first down late. However, the odds are in favor of Marshall, who had a good day, getting a pair of impressive catches. Defensive line — Nick Thurman and T.J. Smith: The
Pitt County wins Little League Softball World Series title
With a 1-0 win in the championship, Pitt County avenged their loss in the 2023 title game
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
REDEMPTION.
That was the goal for the Pitt County Girls Softball Little League team.
One year earlier, the team from Winterville had suffered a heartbreaking loss in the 2023 championship match, losing 5-2 to the Massapequa International Little League team representing the Mid-Atlantic Region.
But with another chance at the crown, being one of the 12 teams to make it to the 2024 Little League Softball World Series held earlier this month, they weren’t going to be denied. And with a 1-0 win over Sterlington Little League from Louisiana in the final, they instead got to experience all the jubilation that comes with victory.
state title and advancing to the Little League Softball World Series. Pitt County would win that as well.
“We were just putting in all the work trying to get back here,” said pitcher Braelyn Johnson, who was one of six returning players from the 2023 team, in a postgame interview with ESPN. “This was our goal”
As the old saying goes, defense wins championships, and the Pitt County girls proved that with a literally impervious
tournament record as the host team posted five straight shutouts en route to North Carolina’s third Little League softball title. “It’s sort of surreal, right?” North Carolina manager Brad Medhus told ESPN. “We’ve been talking for a year now about unfinished business. We came out today and had to play two games — two 1-0 games,
29-year-old Thurman played in seven games over five seasons before playing in all 17 with the Panthers last season — his first where he didn’t spend time on a practice squad. Smith went undrafted in 2020 and has played two NFL regular season games since. Both have impressed in camp and preseason game one, and both started against the Jets. Thurman had a quiet night, assisting on one tackle. Smith was unblocked on a 15-yard sack and also tipped a pass resulting in a near interception. Both face an uphill battle to make the final cut, but Smith seems to have the edge. His case was helped by sixthround draft pick Jaden Crumedy, who suffered an ankle injury in the first preseason game and couldn’t go in game two. It’s also possible that the spot they’re fighting for could end up going to one of the players involved in the next position battle.
Edge rusher — Luiji Vilain and Eku Leota: Both players saw their odds improve when
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so a little stressful — but you can’t beat this feeling right now. It’s pretty amazing.” And they got to do it in their own backyard, too, with the tournament being held less than 10 miles away in Greenville, the home of the Little League Softball World Series since 2021, at the Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park.
It was the third straight appearance for the Winterville girls and their second time representing North Carolina — which gets a bid for being the host region — after defeating Johnston County 15-0 in the state championship.
The Winterville girls started in the Purple Bracket and rattled off a 10-0 win over Negros Occidental Little League from the Asia-Pacific region, then followed it up with a 16-0 win over Emilia Romagna Little League from the Europe-Africa region.
They then took down Cranston Western Little League 16-0 from the New England region and then in the semifinal, beat Mid-Atlantic West Point Little League from the Mid-Atlantic region 1-0.
From regionals to the championship, it was seven straight victories for Pitt County, but so too was it for Sterlington, which had shut out three of
COURTESY LITTLELEAGUE.ORG Pitt County poses for a team photo after winning the North Carolina
MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO
Carolina Panthers linebacker Eku Leota, left, grabs the face mask of New York Jets quarterback Adrian Martinez during the second half of Saturday’s preseason game.
THURSDAY
8.22.24
TRENDING
Tyler Reddick:
The 23XI Racing driver took the lead on a second-overtime restart to win at Michigan, opening up another spot for a driver in the Cup Reddick has a postseason place secured, leaving four spots available with two races remaining He also won a Cup Series race four months ago in his No. 45 Toyota owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan
Stephon Gilmore:
The Minnesota Vikings agreed to a one-year contract with the veteran cornerback. Gilmore will get a guaranteed $7 million on a deal that could be worth as much as $10 million The 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Bowl pick will join seasons. Gilmore played for the Panthers in 2021 and the Cowboys last year.
Jake Garcia:
The former Missouri and Miami quarterback has been named East Carolina’s starter to open the season. The redshirt junior beat out sophomore Katin Houser in a preseason competition. Garcia played sparingly for the Hurricanes in 2021 and 2022 then transferred to Missouri where he didn’t play at all last season Houser transferred to ECU after playing parts of two seasons at Michigan State.
Beyond the box score
POTENT QUOTABLES
“I’ve never been one of those that said you’ll see at game time.”
UNC coach Mack Brown, in July, on naming a starting quarterback. A month later, UNC announced it will not release a depth chart or name a starter for the season opener.
“You’d love to, but we’ve had a ton of reps and a lot of practice.”
Panthers coach Dave Canales on not playing two preseason games.
NASCAR than a half-century, opening nex t season with an exhibition race on a site with a rich histor y in auto racing NA SCA R says Winston-Salem will be the home of The since 1971.
game in franchise history, 1-0, over DC Power FC, on a goal by former UNC and Davidson soccer player Vicky Bruce The team, competing in the new USL Super League, played before an announced attendance of 10,553, a state record for women’s pro soccer.
Former East Carolina quarterback Gardner Minshew will be the Las Vegas Raiders’ starting quarterback going into the season, coach Antonio Pierce said. Minshew beat out Aidan O’Connell for the starting spot. Minshew has played for the Jaguars, NFL seasons.
Number of days where all 30 NBA teams will be in action in the 2024-25 season The schedule, released last week, has everyone in action on Nov 4, Feb. 12, April 11 and April 13.
Weston Wilson became Philadelphia Phillies history to hit for the cycle. The High Point native, Wesleyan Christian Academy graduate and 2017-18 Carolina Mudcat tr ipled and singled in the fourth; homered in the seventh and doubled in the eighth Wilson had the 10th cycle in Phillies in Philadelphia since 2004.
WOMEN’S SOCCER
CAROLINA ASCENT FC
/ AP PHOTO
GENE J PUSKAR /
JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO
COURTESY BOWMAN GRAY RACING
DERIK HAMILTON / AP PHOTO
Predicting the college football season with award watch lists
UNC and NC State can expect double-digit wins
By Shawn Krest North State Journal
LAST YEAR, East Carolina and Wake Forest went from eight-win seasons in 2022 to losing campaigns. The Deacs went 4-8, while the Pirates were 2-10. Meanwhile, Florida State went unbeaten in the ACC to take the conference title.
While these developments may have taken some college football fans by surprise, loyal North State Journal readers were giving knowing nods. After all, they’d know it was going to happen since our annual August season prediction, which calculates the win-loss record for each ACC team and North Carolina FBS program based on the preseason watch lists.
In late July, each of the 16 major awards — everything from the Maxwell player of the year award to the Ray Guy Award, given to the top college punter — lists two to three dozen players who are expected to contend for their award. More than 300 players receive watch list mentions each offseason. And several years ago, NSJ discovered that using lists of good players on each team’s roster is actually a surprising-
ly accurate way to predict how well a team will do. Basically, the more award-worthy players a team has on its roster, the better it will be. For instance, UNC opens with
a game against Minnesota. And, while neither team is releasing a depth chart for the game, a look at the watch lists shows us that UNC has a total of 12 watch list entries. The Gophers have eight.
So the Tar Heels, with a 12-8 edge in watch-listed players, have the talent edge and would be expected to win. Does the model work? Well, we’re not guaranteeing any
NC State wide receiver Kevin Concepcion hauls in a pass against UNC last season. Concepcion was named to the preseason watch list for the Biletnikoff Award, presented to the top receiver in college football — one of the reasons the Wolfpack are expected to win 10 games this year.
windfalls if you use it as a tool in your newly legalized online gambling, but it’s been surprisingly reliable in the past. Here were the hits for last year’s predictions: TEAM PREDICTED RECORD
ber is the total watch-listers on opponents’ rosters, so higher means a tougher schedule.
(A “toss-up” means that a team and its opponent had the same number of watch-listers.)
It was overly optimistic for UNC and App:
(1
And overly pessimistic for Wake:
Around the ACC, Florida State was predicted to go 7-0 with a toss-up, and the toss-up went the Noles’ way as well, giving FSU an 8-0 league record. Syracuse and Clemson were underperformers, while Georgia Tech did much better than expected. So what can we expect for 2024? After poring over the watch lists, we’re predicting four teams in North Carolina will be headed to bowl games.
TEAM NO. OF WATCH-LISTERS PROJECTED RECORD
Carolina 4 7-4 (1 toss-up)
The other three teams in the state will be hoping our model is wrong this season. TEAM NO. OF
Duke 6 4-8
Wake Forest 4 2-9 (1 toss-up)
Charlotte 1 1-11
Those results may seem surprising. Duke has more watch-listers than ECU, but the Blue Devils will win three fewer games? How is that possible? The answer lies in strength of schedule. Three of ECU’s opponents — Tulsa, Norfolk State and Temple — have no watch-listers at all. Another two — North Texas and Charlotte — have just one. Duke, meanwhile, plays six teams — UNC, NC State, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Miami and Georgia Tech — with more than 10 watch-listers on their respective rosters. Here’s a look at the strength of schedule for the teams in North Carolina. The num-
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veteran Tae Davis was carted off the field in the second half. Vilain, undrafted out of Wake Forest in 2022, has three regular season NFL games. Leota, undrafted last year, saw spot duty in eight games after being promoted from the practice squad. Leota was one of the breakout stars in the Patriots game, and he continued to impress with the Jets in town. He flushed the quarterback on a pass-turned-scramble early in the game. On the next play — fourth down — he got pressure on the quarterback, forcing an incompletion. He was also the first man down on a kickoff coverage play. He did have a missed tackle on what would have been a sack and compounded the error by grabbing the quarterback’s facemask as he spun out of Leota’s grasp, but that’s been about the only blemish on Leota’s record in the first two preseason games. Vilain had a missed tackle on a quarterback scramble early in the game but later on redeemed himself by pressuring the quarterback and forcing an incompletion on a designed screen play.
Looking at the ACC, we have three new teams added to the mix. Here’s how the new-look ACC shakes out:
Miami is projected to have an unbeaten season, thanks to a talent-packed roster and weak schedule. Clemson, UNC, Virginia Tech and FSU all appear to also be contenders for a College Football Playoff berth.
The league can expect 10 bowl bids, with NC State and SMU having 10-win seasons, while Louisville, Syracuse and Virginia will also be headed for the postseason.
The other two league newcomers — Cal and Stanford — can expect losing seasons, while Pitt and Wake will be hard-pressed to earn a league win this season. But perhaps the most frustrating season will be in Atlanta. Despite having 10 watch-listers on the roster, Georgia Tech will go just 4-8, thanks to a schedule that includes both Notre Dame and Georgia and features a schedule strength with 27 more watch-listers than any other team in the league.
So in January, when everyone else is trying to sort out the results of a wild and crazy season, keep in mind — you read it here first.
Cornerback — D’Shawn Jamison, Lamar Jackson, Dicaprio Bootle. All three went undrafted and have been cut at the end of training camp a combined total of seven times. They’re battling to keep that total from increasing. Jackson and Jamison got the start, but Bootle logged 32 snaps, sixth most of any Panthers defensive player. Jackson left the game with an undisclosed injury and was waived by the team. Dane Jackson, ahead of the group on the depth chart, is also expected to miss significant time, so the path is looking clearer for Jamison and Bootle.
MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO
Carolina Panthers rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders mugs after making a play during the first half of the preseason game against the Jets.
North Carolina’s football futures betting trends ahead of the college, NFL seasons
See where the state is placing its bets in DraftKings’ futures markets
By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal
A S NFL AND college football teams get ready to line up for the upcoming season, North Carolina sports fans are lining their money up behind them.
North Carolina will have legal online sports betting during the football season for the first time since the state legalized the activity in March, giving the state’s sports fanatics a chance to bet on their favorite teams such as NC State, UNC, Duke and the Carolina Panthers.
DraftKings, a legal sportsbook in North Carolina, provided North State Journal insights of where its North Carolina customers have been placing their bets in different futures betting markets across the NFL and college football. The insights detail the top 10 wagers by the percentage of the total handle (amount of money wagered) and the percentage of total bets in various markets from the time they opened in March to early August.
In regard to DraftKings’ college football futures markets, the insights report local betting activity from March 11 to Aug. 9.
Within the ACC winner market, North Carolinians placed market-highs of 48% of the handle and 27% of the bets on the Wolfpack. NC State is the only local team to make the top five, and it is at the top despite DraftKings listing their odds at +650. That’s worse odds to win the conference than Florida State (+290) and Clemson (+350), two teams tied for the second-most bets share of 16% in the time frame. In other conferences, local bettors have placed the most bets on Georgia to win the SEC,
Ohio State to win the Big Ten and Kansas State to win the Big 12.
A towering 42% of bets in the College Football Playoff national championship winner market went to Georgia, yet 30% of the market handle went to Ohio State. NC State performed as one of the top 10 wagers in the market, receiving 6% of the handle and 5% of the bets even though it has +13,000 odds to win it all.
The Heisman Trophy winner saw the closest market activity shared by DraftKings as three quarterbacks, Dillon Gabriel (Oregon), Carson Beck (Georgia) and Jalen Milroe (Alabama) received 11% of the handle. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers joined Milroe and Gabriel as the highest recipients of bets (8% each).
For its NFL futures markets, the insights cover the state’s betting activity on DraftKings from March 11 to Aug. 8.
When it comes to which team will win the NFC this season, North Carolina bettors put most of their money on the Detroit Lions. The Lions, listed with +550 odds to win the conference by DraftKings, received a market-high 21% of the NFC winner handle.
However, local bettors didn’t place as many bets on the Lions as other teams. The Philadelphia Eagles, which hold the second-highest share of the market handle, and the San Francisco 49ers, which is sixth in the handle share, both received 20% of the total bets, while the Lions received just 13%.
Although it is home to the worst team in the NFL last sea-
Local tennis tournament action continues at Winston-Salem Open
The finals for the ATP World Tour 250 event are scheduled for Saturday
By Jesse Deal North State Journal
WINSTON-SALEM — With a final round set for Saturday, the Winston-Salem Open men’s tennis tournament is currently underway at the Wake Forest University Tennis Complex.
The ATP World Tour 250 event — featuring a 48-player draw in singles and 16 teams in doubles — began last Saturday with 35 top-75 players in the ATP 2024 world rankings.
The open has served as the final men’s tournament prior to the U.S. Open for the past 13 years.
Returning 2023 singles champion and top seed Sebastian Baez (No. 21) was set to square off in the second round on Tuesday with Croatian native Borna Coric (No. 87), who defeated Sumit Nagal (No. 72) 6-4, 6-2 in 70 minutes on Sunday.
“I like the fast conditions and, obviously, also during the day, it’s actually much quicker than when I play at night,” said Coric, who now has an 8-3 record in Winston-Salem. “But I like the city as well. It’s obviously very calm, and before I go to New York, I need some calm, so that’s very good.”
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their four opponents en route to the final — although it was nearly an all North Carolina final as Rowan Little League, representing the Southeast Region, made it to the Orange Bracket championship before falling 2-1 to Sterlington.
Houston Texans quarterback
C.J. Stroud (7) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers last season. Stroud (MVP) and the Panthers (NFC champions) are both popular futures bets for North Carolina gamblers prior to the 2024 season.
son, North Carolina still showed faith in its Carolina Panthers, which had the third-highest market handle share of 15% and was tied for second with the Lions in bets percentage despite having +12,000 odds to win the NFC. For the AFC winner, local bettors are looking to win big on the Houston Texans, which held a market-high handle share of 17% despite having the fifthbest odds of +850 and just 12% of the bets. That handle share was higher than the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, which respectively held the second- and third-most handle percentage (14% and 12%) and the best and second-best odds amongst the top 10 wagers (+300 and +550, respectively).
But North Carolinians placed significantly more bets on the
“This feels good. I haven’t been back here since 2019,” said Eubanks, who earned a Round of 32 matchup with tournament 14-seed and ATP No. 61 Hugo Gaston. “I love playing in the South in general, so I’m excited to be back in Winston and get my first win.”
Meanwhile, Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic (No. 94) beat Daniel Evans (No. 186) 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 before taking down Adrian Mannarino (No. 42) 7-6, 2-6, 6-1. Vukic was set to play either Alexander Shevchenko (No. 60) or Pablo Carreno Busta (No. 299) in the third round.
Tuesday’s second round of singles also included matches from Arthur Rinderknech (No. 56)/Christopher O’Connell (No. 86), as well as David Goffin (No. 90)/Luciano Darderi (No. 38) and Tomas Martin Etcheverry (No. 34)/Zizou Bergs (No. 85).
AFC favorites, with 25% going to the Ravens and 24% going to the Chiefs.
For NFL MVP, Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (+850 odds) handled the most money out of bettors (21% of the handle), while Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (both with +900 odds) both received a marginally market-high of 10%, just one percentage over Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (+475 odds).
Local bettors didn’t spend significantly more money on any one team to win the Super Bowl as the Eagles and Chiefs were tied at 11% of the market share, but the Chiefs received the highest percentage of bets with 15%. The next highest team on the bets share was the 49ers, last year’s Super Bowl runner-up.
Marcelo Melo (No. 38) or Alexander Erler (No. 49) and Robin Haase (No. 1187). With the tournament set in Winston-Salem, it was only fitting that a Wake Forest men’s doubles team clinched its first pro match win.
Despite never playing doubles together at Wake, Demon Deacons stars DK Suresh (No. 1087) and Luca Pow (No. 1283) won their first-round match with a 6-4, 5-7, 10-8 upset win over Ariel Behar (No. 43) and Andres Molteni (No. 30).
“It was amazing to do this in front of the home crowd, and we want to thank all the fans who came out. Obviously, it’s cool playing with the team, and it’s a different environment,” Suresh said after the match.
“But actually, playing at the pro level, you are playing for yourself. This is everybody’s dream to turn pro, and I can’t explain what I’m going through right now.”
It marked the first time a current Wake Forest player won a match in the main draw of the Winston-Salem Open since Cory Parr in 2011.
The three-time ATP Tour titlist will face Rinky Hijikata (No. 65) in the Round of 16 if he gets past Baez. “I knew, obviously, I didn’t need to panic because it was still one-all, and I just stayed calm,” Coric said of his match with Nagal. “I was feeling very good on the court today, so I knew I just needed to be patient and my time would come.”
“It was a nice atmosphere, and the night session is always special. It’s a good win. It’s a tough win,” Bergs said after defeating American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(1). “I feel like I haven’t won a lot of matches lately, so it’s very important to get a victory in, especially a tight one.”
Zachary Svajda (No. 107), Learner Tien (No. 230), Alex Michelsen (No. 52), and Christopher Eubanks (No. 120) are the four American players who advanced to the second round of play.
Over on the smaller doubles bracket, reigning Winston-Salem Open doubles champions Nathaniel Lammons (No. 26) and Jackson Withrow (No. 26) advanced to the quarterfinals. The two Americans — the only ones left in their bracket — were scheduled to play either Rafael Matos (No. 33) and
“It was tough,” Pow added. “Me and DK haven’t played doubles before together. I knew I was going to have to perform for him and I’ve won a lot, but I don’t have anything to my name. But I performed and DK performed, and we played some great tennis.”
The pair was set to face Gonzalo Escobar (No. 53) and Aleksandr Nedovyesov (No. 56) in the round of 16 on Wednesday.
But all it takes is a spark…
In the bottom of the fifth with two outs and facing an 0-2 count, shortstop Anna Rose was feeling the pressure.
But pressure makes diamonds, and Rose stayed com-
As could be expected though, the final match was a tight one, and heading into the final inning, it was a deadlocked 0-0 stalemate.
posed and nailed a line drive single just over the first baseman’s head to get on base.
And Pitt County wasted no time in capitalizing.
Center fielder Candace Lynn, after fouling off the first pitch, she called her number on the second and drilled the ball to deep left field, just out of the reach of the Louisiana outfielder.
The crowd came to life as
the ball continued to roll to the wall. Rose scored to give North Carolina the lead.
As Lynn stood up from the bag, Medhus could be heard hyping up his team’s latest hero: “What a bat, girl! What a bat!”
“I’m so happy right now,” Lynn said in a postgame interview with ESPN, tears rolling down her face. “It means a lot. It really does. For me, but also my team mostly.”
In the top of the sixth, Johnson stayed the course as she had all game, and with one final strike, Pitt County had won. Having finally secured their long-awaited crowns, the champions embraced their exuberance — yelling, jumping, crying, hugging — having created memories they’ll carry with themselves for the rest of their lives.
BRIAN WESTERHOLT / AP PHOTO
WAKE FOREST ATHLETICS
Former Demon Deacon DK Suresh teamed with college teammate Luca Pow to produce the first win for former Wake Forest players in the Winston-Salem Open main draw in 13 years.
CUMBERLAND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF CHESTER RAYMOND BOLTON, JR. Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 – E - 792
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Chester, Raymond Bolton, Jr., deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Pamela J. Lopez, Administrator, at 8 Windy Knl., Columbia, SC 29229, on or before the 9th day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.
This the 5th day of August, 2024.
Pamela Jane Lopez Administrator of the Estate of Chester Raymond Bolton, Jr. Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311
Run dates: August 8, August 15, August 22 and August 29, 2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Janet Marie Brickman Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 427
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Janet Marie Brickman, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Teresa McFadden Elliott, Executor, at 6224 Kirkwall Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 2nd day of November 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above.
This the 25th day of July, 2024. Teresa McFadden Elliott Executor of the Estate of Janet Marie Brickman Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: August 1, August 8, August 15 and August
OF NORTH CAROLINA
of Cumberland
The General Court Of
24E986
Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator/ Executor of the estate of Irene M Cruz, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, Firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 8th day of November, 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This 8th day of August, 2024 Alicia Kidd Administrator/Executor 524 Donovan Street Fayetteville, NC 28301
4127799799 Of the Estate of Irene M Cruz, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF CATHERINE DAY/CATHERINE MCKOY/ CATHERINE MCSWAIN
CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 24 E 1206
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Catherine Day aka Catherine McKoy aka Catherine McSwain deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Hiawatha Blunt and Brenda Hawkes, CoAdministrators, at 1403 Aurora Way, Jamestown, NC 27282, on or before the 1st day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Co-Administrators named above.
This the 29th day of July, 2024.
Hiawatha Blunt
Brenda Hawkes
Co-Administrators of the Estate of Catherine Day Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311
Run dates: August 1, August 15, August 22 and August 29 , 2024
NOTICE
In The General Court of Justice Superior Court
Division Before the Clerk Estate File #24E1204 State of North Carolina Cumberland County Administrator Notice
The undersigned having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of, Linda Undercoffler Dickens, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 10th day of November, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make payment to the undersigned. This is the 30th day of July, 2024.
Administrator of the Estate of Linda Undercoffler
DIckens Christopher Michael Smith
P.O. Box 377 Anderson, SC 29622
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF NOAH GROSSMAN
Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 1258
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Noah Grossman, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Sandy Barton, Administrator, at 2601 Adkins Hill Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28306, on or before the 16th day of November (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor/ Administrator named above.
This the 6th day of August, 2024.
Sandy Barton Administrator of the Estate of Noah Grossman
Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311
Run dates: 8/15, 8/22, 8/29 and 9/5/2024
ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE
In The General Court of Justice
Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File # 2024 E 001222 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE
The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of KENNETH C LOVETT, deceased late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the, 1st day of November,2024,(which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make payment to the undersigned.
This 29th day of July,2024 Executor, Kenneth C Lovett II 535 Anson Dr. Fayetteville NC 28311 Of the Estate of Kenneth C Lovett, Deceased
NOTICE
In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 2024E000617 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice
The undersigned having qualified as Ronald K. McEachern of the Estate of Gwendolyn Joyce McEachern, deceased, Late of Cumberland County, hereby Notifies all persons, firms, and corporations Having claims against said estate to present Their claim to the undersigned on or before the 17th day of November, 2024, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This 15th day of August, 2024. Ronald K. McEachern 114 Pendelton Street New Haven, CT 06511 Of the Estate of Gwendolyn Joyce McEachern, Deceased
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA County of Cumberland
in the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division State File #: 2024 E 001280
Administrator’s / Executor’s Notice
The undersigned, having qualified as co-executor of the estate of Mary Ruth McLamb, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the twenty-fifth day of November, 2024, (which date is at least three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This fifteenth day of August, 2024.
Robert J. Bunting Co-Executor 223 Riverdell Drive Address Fayetteville, NC 28311-1628 City, State, Zip Of the Estate of Mary Ruth McLamb, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Ann McNeill, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of November 2024, (which is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decendent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This 15th day of August, 2024 Paula McNeill, Administrator/Executor P. O. Box 87702 Fayetteville, NC 28304 Of the Estate of Mary A. McNeill, Deceased
ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
ESTATE FILE #24E 1062
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
Administrator’s Notice
The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Claudia T. Simpson, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before November 6, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make payment to the undersigned.
Dated this 24rd day of July 2024
Pauline H. Hart, Administrator 414 Barbour Court Fayetteville, NC 28301
Administrator of the Estate of Claudia T. Simpson, Deceased
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
ESTATE FILE 24-E-1169
State of North Carolina
Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Alton Earl Smith, Jr., late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 6735 Fire Department Road, Hope Mills, North Carolina 28348, on or before November 15, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 15th day of August, 2024. Rose Smith Kennedy aka Lila Rose Kennedy
Executor of the Estate of Alton Earl Smith, Jr., Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC
J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555
Fayetteville, NC 28305
08/15/2024, 08/22/2024, 08/29/2024 and 09/05/2024
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
ESTATE FILE 24-E-1175
State of North Carolina
Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Janet Eva St. Armour, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 5604 Golden Drive, Killeen, Texas 76542, on or before November 1, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 1st day of August, 2024.
Sheila Lowell
Executor of the Estate of Janet Eva St. Armour, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC
J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555
Fayetteville, NC 28305
08/01/2024, 08/08/2024, 08/15/2024 and 08/22/2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF Donald J. Albin
Cumberland County Estate File No. 24 E 351
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Donald J. Albin, deceased, of Nassau County, New York, are notified to present their claims to Marion A. Albin, Administrator, at 6 Northfield Rd. Glen Cove, NY 11542, on or before the 23rd day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.
This the 19th day of August, 2024.
Marion A. Albin
Administrator of the Estate of Donald J. Albin Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311
Run dates: August 22, August 29, September 5 and September 12, 2024
ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 24E001178
State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Jane Foxworth Suggs, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms, or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before November 1, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 1st day of August, 2024. Administrator of the Estate of Jane Foxworth Suggs
Nancy J. Suggs 1913 Wyatt Street Fayetteville, NC 28304
08/01/2024, 08/08/2024, 08/15/2024, 08/22/2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 23-E-1166
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Johnny Ray Vines, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before November 22, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 22nd day of August, 2024. Amy Vines, Administrator of the Estate of Johnny Ray Vines NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR ADMINISTRATOR
ADMINISTRATOR CTA’S NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 24-E-1176 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator CTA of the Estate of Richard E. Washburn, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at Post Office Box 53555, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28305, on or before November 08, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 8th
ADMINISTRATOR’S/EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
July 31, 2024
Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice
The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Tommy Williams, deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 8th day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 31st day of July 2024.
Twana Williams Administrator/Executor 3939 Dickens Ave Hope Mills NC 28348
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA County of Cumberland In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 24 E 1220
Administrator’s/ Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Larry David Wimert, deceased, late of Cumberland County,
28305 08/08/2024, 08/15/2024, 08/22/2024 and 08/29/2024
Roland Collector ESTATE OF RALPHANNE BENOY
David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411
Publish: August 1, 2024 August 8, 2024 August 15, 2024 August 22, 2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
THE UNDERSIGNED, Eric M. Cardamone, having qualified on the 1st day of July 2024, as Executor of the Estate of Louis Cardamone (2024-E-969), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 4th day of November, 2024, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address.
This 1st day of August 2024. Eric M. Cardamone Executor ESTATE OF LOUIS CARDAMONE David
NEW HANOVER
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH
firms, and corporations having claims against said Absentee that pursuant to NCGS 28C-10, they must file their claims under oath with the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 24th day of February, 2025, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Absentee will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 22nd day of August 2024.
Mary Kay Anderson
Permanent Receiver
JOSEPH MATTHEW JOHNSON, Absentee
David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411
Publish:
August 22, 2024 August 29, 2024 September 5, 2024 September 12, 2024
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, EMMETT V. RICHARDSON, III, having qualified as the Executorof the Estate of SYLVIA TRUMAN GENTRY RICHARDSON , Deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said EMMETT V. RICHARDSON, III, at the address set out below, on or before November 6, 2024, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or
ONSLOW
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF SHIRLEY C. BRYAN
ONSLOW County Estate File No. 24 E 1688
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Shirley Jeannette Campbell Bryan aka Shirley C. Bryan, deceased, of Onslow County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Margaret Bryan, Administrator, at 2110 Lake Shannon Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28312, on or before the 9th day of November, 2024 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.
This the 31st day of July, 2024.
Margaret Bryan Administrator of the Estate of Shirley C. Bryan
Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311
Run dates: August 8, August 15, August 22, and August 29,
CABARRUS
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 64
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Lizzie B. White (Deceased) and John White (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Lizzie B. White and John White, Heirs of Lizzie B. White a/k/a Elizabeth B. White: Grace McNeal a/k/a Grace McNeil, Barbara Reid, Janice Barnes, Ronald White, Regina Barnes, Dwayne White; Heirs of Ronald White: Sarah Russell White, Ronald White, Jr., Rolonda Morgan) to D. Storey, Trustee(s), dated January 11, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 6484, at Page 322 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on August 26, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kannapolis in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: That certain parcel of land lying and being in the County of Cabarrus and State of North Carolina and more particularly described as follows. Lying and being in No. 4 Township Cabarrus County, N.C., on the South side of Mona Street adjoining the property of C.K. Cook and being a part of Lot No. 7 of the Ed M. Cooke Estate as recorded in Map Book 4, Page 78 Cabarrus County Registry and described metes and bounds as follows: Beginning an iron
Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1226 Holland Street, Kannapolis, North Carolina.
Being the same property conveyed by fee simple Deed from C.K. Cook and, Wife Wynell G. Cook to John White and Lizzie b. White, by Quit Claim Deed dated 05/29/1961 recorded on 05/30/1961 in Book 308, Page 206, in Cabarrus County Records, State of NC. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the
dated August 23, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 7776, at Page 260 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services,
corner of C.K. Cook; thence another line of C.K. Cook property S. 1443 E. 133.8 feet to the point of beginning.
Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 4, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kannapolis in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lots 74, 75 and part of lot 76 as shown the map of Matthews Hills in No. 4 Township, Cabarrus County, a part of the W.F. Winecoff Estate as surveyed by G. Same Rowe, April 1950 and is about 1 1/2 to 2 miles southwest of Kannapolis, NC and is more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an iron stake in the southern edge of Franklin Avenue (now Bailey Street), front corner of Lot Numbers 73 and 74, this beginning point lying South 82-30 East 150 feet from the southeast intersection of Franklin Avenue and Davis Street, and runs thence with the dividing line between Lots 73 and 74, South 00-52 East 150 feet to an iron stake, rear corner of Lots 73 and 74 in the line of Lot 80; thence along the line of Lot 80 North 82-30 West 70 feet to an iron stake, a new corner in the rear line of Lot 76; thence with a new line through Lot 76 North 00-52 West 150 feet to an iron stake, a new corner in the southern edge of Franklin Avenue; thence with the southern edge of Franklin Avenue, South 82-30 East 70 feet to the point and place of beginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1311 Bailey Street, Kannapolis, North Carolina.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any
For reference see Deed Book 472 at Page 543 in the Cabarrus County Public Registry. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all
taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to
CUMBERLAND
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 22 SP 918
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by SUE A KRYSIAK AND THOMAS N. GREB payable to HOME LOAN CENTER, INC., DBA LENDINGTREE LOANS, Lender, to LENDERS FIRST CHOICE , Trustee, dated December 23, 2006, and recorded in Book 7468, Page 846 of the Cumberland County Public Registry, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, , having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Cumberland County, North Carolina, in Book 11557, Page 0767, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 12:00PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash
24 SP 2 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY
the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0439-35-8630 ADDRESS: 3640 ABERNATHY DR FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28311 THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 7468, PAGE 846 AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, TOWNSHIP OF CROSS CREEK, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT NUMBER 167 IN THE SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS COUNTRY CLUB HILLS, SECTION 4, PART 2, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF THE SAME DULY RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 102, PAGE 41, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, REGISTRY. PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): SUE A KRYSIAK AND THOMAS N. GREB Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of FortyFive Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred
Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement
THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION DURHAM COUNTY 24SP001566-310
IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LORRIS J. WOODS AND OLIVIA B. WOODS DATED JANUARY 8, 2009 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6122 AT PAGE 856 IN THE DURHAM COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA
NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to
22SP000880-310
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Josephine Blackwell to First American Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated June 28, 2004 and recorded on July 7, 2004 in Book 4460 at Page 475, Durham County Registry, North Carolina.
Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the
24SP001571-310
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Randy Williams to Burke & Associates, Trustee(s), which was dated July 21, 2006 and recorded on July 24, 2006 in Book 5295 at Page 545 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on August 2, 2006 in Book 5309, Page 733, Durham County Registry, North Carolina.
Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the
Being all of Unit 307, in a condominium development known as 300 Hay Street Condominium as described in that certain Declaration of Condominium recorded in Book 8125, Page 710, as amended and in condo Plat Book 8, Page 21, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, together with its applicable percentage interest in the Condominium’s Common Area. and being the same property conveyed by Deed in Book 9926, at Page 108, and Book 8256, Page 405, Cumberland County Registry.
Parcel Identification N. 0437-543472.307
Property Address: 325 Hay Street, Unit 307, Fayetteville, NC 28301 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 325 Hay Street, Unit 307, Fayetteville, NC 28301.
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by John P Miller a/k/a John Miller to Diedre Rhodes, Trustee(s), which was dated August 17, 2016 and recorded on August 19, 2016 in Book 09926 at Page 0110 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on February 14, 2024 in Book 11909, Page 0049, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 28, 2024 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit:
demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Durham County courthouse at 10:00AM on August 28, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Durham County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Lorris J. Woods and Olivia B. Woods, dated January 8, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $117,569.00, and recorded in Book 6122 at Page 856 of the Durham County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 13 Citation Drive, Durham, NC 27713 Tax Parcel ID: 144901 Present Record Owners:
sale on September 5, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit:
Being all of Lot 5, Laurel Glen, according to the plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 159, Page 137, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County, North Carolina. This property has the address of 3 Azzi Court, Durham, NC 27703
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 3 Azzi Ct, Durham, NC 27703.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY
sale on September 5, 2024 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit:
Being all of Lot 8, Block B, Section 2, of Mistletoe Hills, as per plat and survey thereof on file in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County in Plat Book 51, Page 23, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same.
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 6917 Windover Drive, Durham, NC 27712.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing.
THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing.
THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal.
This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current
The Heirs of Lorris J. Woods The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Lorris J. Woods. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the
THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Josephine Blackwell.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against
COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Randy Williams.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in
owner(s) of the property is/are METRO NORTH, LLC.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)].
Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.
If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited
amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be
the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.
If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and
which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)].
Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC
Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 23-31428-FC01
reinstatement of the loan
DURHAM
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
24SP000085-310
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Celestine R. Mciver AKA Celestine R. Tate (PRESENT RECORD
OWNER(S): Celestine R. McIver and Sharon R. Tate, Heirs of Celestine R. McIver a/k/a Celestine R. Tate: Sharon R. Tate, Cory McIver, Cathy Tate, Victor Tate; Heirs of Sharon R. Tate: Brian Tate, Jared Tate; Heirs of Cory McIver: Cory McIver, Jr., Courtney McIver; Heirs of Cathy Tate: Kenita Tate, Jamarius Tate, Jacqueline Tate) to Laura Layell, Trustee(s), dated January 18, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 5087, at Page 969 in Durham County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Durham
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP001012-310 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained
Conde Rhee: Jae Sun Michael Rhee, Jeremy Rhee; Heirs of Yong Keun Rhee: Jae Sun Michael Rhee, Jeremy Rhee) to Craig Parker, Esq., Trustee(s), dated January 5, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 8103, at Page 988 in Durham County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Durham County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham
FORSYTH
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 17SP479
IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY THOMAS E. JOHNSON AND JEANNETTE
M. JOHNSON DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2605 AT PAGE 838 IN THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for
22 SP 263
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Linda Lowery to Burke & Associates, Trustee(s), which was dated March 20, 2007 and recorded on March 29, 2007 in Book RE 2740 at Page 2249, Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina.
Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 29, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following
County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on August 27, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain property situated in the City of Durham in the County of Durham and State of North Carolina, being more fully described in a deed dated 04/29/1970 and recorded 04/29/1970, among the land records of the County and State set forth above, in Deed Volume 364 and Page 258. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2019 Athens Street, Durham, North Carolina.
Tax Map or Parcel ID No.: 179500
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on September 3, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF Durham, STATE OF North Carolina, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
Being all of Lot 160, Phase I, Audubon Park, as shown on plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 139, Page 200, Durham County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5827 Solitude Way, Durham, North Carolina.
Parcel #151440 PIN #0727-02-85-5916
Commonly known as 5827 Solitude Way, Durham, NC 27713 However, by showing this address no additional coverage is provided
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided
sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 29, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson, dated September 30, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $151,488.00, and recorded in Book 2605 at Page 838 of the Forsyth County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 405 Bangor Dr, Winston Salem, NC 27107 Tax Parcel ID: 6855-63-9279.00 Present Record Owners: Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register
described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit:
All that piece, parcel or lot of land, with improvements thereon, lying, being and situate in the City of Winston Salem, County of Forsyth, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
BEING all of Lot 3, according to the Survey of Morwell, Section 2, as recorded in Plat Book 5, page 132, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, State of North Carolina.
Being the same property conveyed by Lydia L. Bagby and husband, Kenneth Bagby to Linda Lowery dated 5/15/2001 and recorded 5/22/2001 in Book 2175, Page 3306 in the Register’s Office for Forsyth County.
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 447 W 25th Street, Winston Salem, NC 27105.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven
in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold
of Deeds, is/are Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson.
The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not
A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge
Philip J. Williams and Tracy Williams
subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability
be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 22, 2024.
and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Linda Lowery.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the
LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 22-00500-FC01 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 23sp636 IN THE MATTER
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE
Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 10:00AM on August 29, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Philip J Williams and Tracy R Williams, dated March 11, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $109,200.00, and recorded in Book RE 2936 at Page 4247 of the Forsyth County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.
Address of property: 2719 London Lane, Winston Salem, NC 27103 Tax Parcel ID: 6814-92-1426 Present Record Owners:
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Philip J. Williams and Tracy Williams.
The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax
associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of
SALE
NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by David Grohs and Megan Grohs to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated March 21, 2011 and recorded on
Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24 SP 443
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Vanessa Jones and David Jones (deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David Jones and Vanessa Jones) to David Brunk, Trustee(s), dated December 22, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 2719, at Page 3125 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on August 28, 2024 and will sell to
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24 SP 443
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Willie D. Gilmore (deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Willie D. Gilmore, Heirs of Willie D. Gilmore: Sharon Gilmore McNeill, Willie David Gilmore, Jr., Sabrine Gilmore Williams) to Rodney Atkinson, Trustee(s), dated February 28, 1997, and recorded in Book No. 1934, at Page 3402 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24 SP 443
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Donnette Hartsell (deceased) and Gregory H. Gordon (deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Donnette Hartsell and Gregory H. Gordon, Heirs of Donnette Hartsell: Danika Speer, Jennifer McDonald, Audre Smith a/k/a Audre Hotchkiss; Heirs of Audre Smith a/k/a Audre Hotchkiss: Christopher Merideth a/k/a Shane Merideth, Cierra Smith, Dalton Smith, William Hotchkiss; Heirs of Gregory H. Gordon a/k/a Gregory Gordon: Beverly McKenzie) to Countrywide Title Corporation, Trustee(s), dated March 7, 2002, and recorded in Book No. 2239, at Page 2031 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in
courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 5, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit: ALL THAT PARCEL OF LAND IN FORSYTH COUNTY, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 45, SECTION 2, TEMORA LAKE ESTATES, FILED IN PLAT BOOK 25, PAGE 170
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 790 Shellhabour Blvd, Rural Hall, NC 270459791.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are
the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain property situated in the Township of Middle Fork 2 in the County of Forsyth and State of North Carolina. Being more fully described in a Deed dated 10/11/2001 and recorded 10/17/2001, among the land records of the County and State set forth above, in Deed Volume 2205 and Page 4059. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4609 Stanley Court, Winston Salem, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).
location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on September 3, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Rural Hall in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at a point in the intersection of Pine Street and Lee Street, the northern margin of Lee Street and the eastern margin of Pine Street, and continuing from said point along the eastern margin of Pine Street, North 03 deg. 31’ 10” East 75.14 feet to an existing iron pin, the southwest corner of Velner Sprinkle; thence South 84 deg. 52’ East 107.91 feet to an existing iron pin, a common point with Wallace R. Hatcher; thence South 03 deg. 32’ 30” West 74.65 feet to a point on the northern margin of Lee Street; thence continuing along said northern margin, North 85 deg. 07’ 30” West 107.87 to the point and place of beginning according to a survey by Callicutt Surveyors dated 5/4/93 and denoted as job no. 9390. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7755 Pine Street, Rural Hall, North Carolina.
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,
Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on September 4, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kernersville in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an iron stake on the southernmost right of way line of west mountain street (aka N.C. Highway 66) northeasternmost corner of Etta B. Fulp lot recorded in Deed Book 1173 Page 489, Forsyth County Registry, (Tax Lot 23b Block 5345); from said beginning point thence continuing with the southernmost margin of said west mountain street South 70 degrees 28’ 37” East 99.86 feet to an iron stake, northwesternmost corner of another Etta B. Fulp lot as recorded in the same said aforementioned Deed Book and Page (Tax Lot 22a Block 5345) thence continuing with said Fulp westernmost line South 4 degrees 55’ 58’ West 206.73 feet to an iron stake, southwesternmost corner of said Fulp lot; running thence north 70 degrees 29’ west 101.99 feet to an iron southeasternmost corner of the intitial said Fulp lot (Tax Lot 23b); running thence with easternmost line of said lot North 19 degrees 32’ 23” East 200.08 feet to the point and place of beginning, containing 0.578 acres, more or less, all according to a survey prepared by Larry
immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY
PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are David A. Grohs.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor
The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.
delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded
L. Callahan, R.L.S. -2499 dated October 24, 1991. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1403 West Mountain Street, Kernersville, North Carolina.
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special
of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS §
releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued
assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.
A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party,
the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements
contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 29, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Timothy E. Murdock, dated May 17, 2019 to secure the original principal amount of $109,900.00, and recorded in Book 2619 at Page 2025 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 641 Wood St, Statesville, NC 28677 Tax Parcel ID: 4744363765.000 Present Record Owners: The Estate of Timothy E. Murdock The record owner(s) of the property,
according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Timothy E. Murdock. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 24sp175 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY HENRY PETER CONKLIN DATED SEPTEMBER
the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will
expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 12:00PM on August 27, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Henry Peter Conklin, dated September 25, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $343,500.00, and recorded in Book 2739 at Page 1825 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 183 Gabriel Dr, Mooresville, NC 28115 Tax Parcel ID: 4658960391.000 Present Record Owners: Henry Peter Conklin The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Henry Peter Conklin. The property to be offered pursuant to
this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are
IMMEDIATELY DUE
of
The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may
described as follows: All that certain lot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Statesville, County of Iredell, State of North Carolina.
BEGINNING at a new iron pipe located in the eastern margin of Signal Hill Drive, said pipe being situated S 71-50-50 E 30 feet (passing an existing iron pipe at 27.98 feet) from a point in the center line of Signal Hill Drive, which pipe is also located at the southwest
corner of the J.R. West Properties, LLC property, now or formerly, as described in Deed Book 1028 at Page 1928, Iredell County Public Registry; running thence with the southern property line of J.R. West Properties, LLC, S 71-50-50 E 115.88 feet to an existing iron pipe, said pipe being located at the southwest corner of the M.A. Duke and M.S. Duke property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 471 at Page 147 of the aforesaid public registry; thence with the southern line of said M.A. Duke and M.S. Duke, S 71-50-50 E 62.12 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence S 72-00-25 E 420.36 feet to an existing iron pipe situated at the southeast corner of the Statesville Family Radio Corporation property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 732 at Page 294 of the aforesaid public registry: thence S 71-48-21 E 149.17 feet to an existing iron pipe situated in the western margin of Horne Street (not dedicated) as shown on plat recorded in Plat Book 7 at Page 11 in the aforesaid public registry; thence with the western margin of said Horne Street S 22-36-26 W 547.47 feet to an existing iron pipe situated in the western margin of said Horne Street, said iron being located at the northeasterly corner of the J.E. Hunter property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 657 at Page 88 in the aforesaid public registry; thence with two lines of said Hunter: (1) N 73-30-24 W 136.08 feet to an existing iron pipe; and (2) S 22-30-10 W 41.01 feet to an existing iron pipe the northeasterly corner of the J.L. Hope and R.B. Hope property, now or formerly as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 749 at Page 377 in the aforesaid public registry, thence with the northerly line of said Hope and the northerly line of the J.W. Myers property now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 621 at Page 144 of the aforesaid public registry N 80-50-31 W 299.20 feet to an
existing iron pipe situated in the easterly line of the S.M. Holland property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 973 at Page 658 of the aforesaid public registry; thence with two lines of said Holland: (1) N 13-33-59 E 5.61 feet to an existing iron pipe; and (2) N 79- 51-42 W 97.69 feet to an existing iron pipe located at the southeasterly corner of the Pebble Hill Associates property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 754 at Page 647 in the aforesaid public registry thence with the easterly line of said Pebble Hill Associates, the easterly line of the Franchise Realty Interstate Corporation property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 625 at Page 626 of the aforesaid public registry and the easterly line of the J.L. Hope and R.B. Hope property, now or formerly, as described in deed recorded in Deed Book 555 at Page 409 in the aforesaid public registry N 1835-00 E 612.38 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence with the northerly line of said Hope N 71-50-12 W 177.90 feet to a new nail located in the eastern margin of Signal Hill Drive; thence with the eastern margin of Signal Hill Drive N 18-37- 29 E 32.00 feet to the point or place of beginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 138, 134, 136, 118, 116, 114, 120, 122, 128, 130, 132, 126 and 124 Signal Hill Drive, Statesville, North Carolina.
Note for Information: Being Parcel No. 4754080297, of the City of Statesville, County of Iredell. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One
Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00),
Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Iredell County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on September 5, 2024 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Statesville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an iron pin set in the Northern margin of State Road 1501 North, commonly known as Whitney Lane, said iron pin being the common Southeast corner of Allen A.
Raker, and running thence from the point of BEGINNING, with the line of Raker, North 20 deg. 29 min. West 350 feet to an existing iron pin in the Southern margin of State Road 1654, commonly known as Sharon Crest Drive (formerly known as Dogwood Drive); running thence with State Road 1654, North 60 deg. 31 min. East 127.22 feet to an existing iron pin where the Southern margin of Sharon Crest Drive (formerly known as Dogwood Drive) intersects with the Western margin of Sharon Crest Drive (formerly known as Sharon Place); running thence with the Western margin of Sharon Crest Drive (formerly known as Sharon Place), South 20 deg. 29 min. East 350 feet to an iron pin set where the Western margin of Sharon Crest Drive (formerly known as Sharon Place) intersects with the Northern margin of Whitney Lane; running thence with the Northern margin of Whitney Lane, South 69 deg. 31 min. West 127.22 feet to the point of BEGINNING, containing 1.022 acres, more or less, and all being according to a survey by Teddy E. Sharpe, RLS, dated July 29, 1988, and being the identical property acquired by Charles T. Hall and wife, Patricia L. Hall, by deed recorded in Deed Book 728, Page 156, Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 163 Whitney Lane, Statesville, North Carolina. For back title, see Deed Book 2028, page
contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Johnston County courthouse at 12:00 PM on August 27, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Sandra K. Hardee; Drucilla A. Hardee, dated November 2, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $141,400.00, and recorded in Book No. 3775, at Page 251 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 326 Log Cabin Court, Selma, NC 27576 Tax Parcel ID: 12M12021F
1022, Iredell County Registry. PIN: 3793-15-3760 Property Address: 163 Whitney Lane, Statesville, NC 28625 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Drucilla A. Hardee.
The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest
releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may
bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.
SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the
effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is 29th day of July, 2024.
Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Posted: By: Ingle Case Number: 23376-36657
ONSLOW
24 SP 155
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, RANDOLPH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Adrianne Santoro Johnson and Michael Alan Johnson Jr. to Michael Burns, Attorney at Law, Trustee(s), which was dated September 30, 2016 and recorded on October 5, 2016 in Book 2514 at Page 852, Randolph County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,
to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hubert in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 697, Foxtrace Subdivision, Section 5, as will appear of record in Map Book 35, Page 145, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements thereon; said property being located at 233 Zachary Lane, Hubert, North Carolina. Subject to Restrictive Covenants recorded in Book 1415, Page 792, Onslow County Registry. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental,
or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 27, 2024 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Randolph County, North Carolina, to wit: Being known and designated as all of Lot 38 of the subdivision known as THE DIVISION OF LANDS OF PINEWOOD GOLF AND DEVELOPMENT, INC., as same is shown on a map thereof recorded in Plat Book 14 at Page 67 in the Randolph County Public Registry; reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description.
Property Address: 388 Nassau Trail, Asheboro, NC 27205 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 377 Nassau Trl, Asheboro, NC 27205.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be
of the access easement running easterly from Hoover Hill Road S.R. 1408 (see Deed Book 1336 Page 506) at the northeast corner of E. D. Skeen and Winnie Skeen tract described in Deed Book 327 Page 340 of the Randolph County Registry, which beginning point is
required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are MICHAEL ALAN JOHNSON, JR. AND WIFE, ADRIANNE SANTORO JOHNSON. An
DEED.
Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 3, 2024 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Randolph County, North Carolina, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the City of, Tabernacle Township, Randolph County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:
BEGINNING at an 8 Inch dogwood tree south of the 10 foot wide present pavement
AND MOHAMED K. ALY DATED NOVEMBER 8, 2006 IN THE AMOUNT OF $135,850.00 AND RECORDED IN BOOK RE1998 AT PAGE 1216 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA, by Anthony Maselli or Genevieve Johnson, either of whom may act, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anthony Maselli or Genevieve Johnson, either of whom may act, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Randolph County, North Carolina, in Book 2911, Page 1276, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on September 4, 2024 at 12:30pm, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being
more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 7718905275 ADDRESS: 4726 ROBY DR., ARCHDALE, NC 27263 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): MARGARET GARIB AND MOHAMED K. ALY THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF RANDOLPH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK RE1998, PAGE 1216 AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT NO. 5 OF TRINDALE FOREST SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO A MAP OR PLAT OF THE SAME WHICH IS DULY RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 12, AT PAGE 86, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF RANDOLPH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. THIS CONVEYANCE IS MADE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS FOUND RECORDED IN BOOK 921, PAGE 497, RANDOLPH COUNTY REGISTRY. PARCEL ID: 7718905275 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for
Winnle Skeen line in Deed Book 327 Page 340 north 03 deg. 41’ 48” east 320.28 feet to the BEGINNING, containing approximately 8.72 acres by coordinates as shown on a survey for division of THE ESTATE OF WADE KINDLEY by Michael J. Evans, Sr., PLS, 5052 South Main Street #24, Winston-Salem, NC dated January 11, 1999 to which reference Is made, and being a part of the lands of Wade Kindley, deceased, SUBJECT TO the access easement for the benefit of this property and others, now known as Pine Valley Drive along and on the north end of this property as referred to hereinabove, and the mutual, non-exclusive right to use of said drive for access westerly to Hoover Hill Road.
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 4553 Pine Valley Drive, Trinity, NC 27370.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are David Lee Parnell.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant
sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S.
provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason,
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 24SP001077-910
IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JAMES CURTIS LEMON DATED OCTOBER 20, 2023 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 19461 AT PAGE 2243 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 4, 2024, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed James Curtis Lemon, dated October 20, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $330,500.00, and recorded in Book 19461 at Page 2243 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 8611 Brushfoot Way Unit 107, Raleigh, NC 27616 Tax Parcel ID: 0510203 Present Record Owners: James Curtis Lemon The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are James Curtis Lemon. The property to be offered pursuant to
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 24SP000325-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY RICHARD J. PATTISON DATED OCTOBER 4, 2010 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 14108 AT PAGE 708 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE
Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 4, 2024, the
22 SP 1627
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Homero Perez and Deborah Huntley Perez to Richard J. Arbogast, Trustee(s), which was dated August 29, 2001 and recorded on September 5, 2001 in Book 009067 at Page 01850 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on April 17, 2020 in Book 017827, Page 2350, Wake County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 28, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following
18 SP 2217
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Wanda Allen a/k/a Wanda M. Allen to Walter F. Jones, Trustee(s), which was dated November 19, 2003 and recorded on November 20, 2003 in Book 010553 at Page 02099, Wake County Registry, North Carolina.
following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Richard J. Pattison, dated October 4, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $98,000.00, and recorded in Book 14108 at Page 708 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 1109 Sorcerer Ct, Knightdale, NC 27545 Tax Parcel ID: 0223128 Present Record Owners: Richard J. Pattison The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Richard J. Pattison. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for
described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: Beginning at an iron stake in the southern right of way of Wilson Avenue at the intersection of the western right of way of Hollybrook Road; thence running with the right of way of Hollybrook Road, South 05 deg. 29 min. West 180.00 feet to an iron; thence North 78 deg. 45 min. West 60.00 feet to an iron; thence North 05 deg. 29 min. East 180.00 to an iron the southern right of way of Wilson Avenue; thence running with the right of way of Wilson Avenue, South 78 deg. 45 min. East 60.00 feet to the beginning and containing 0.247 acres according to survey of the property entitled “House Location for Milton R Phillips, Jr. and Sylvia B Phillips” by Williams, Pearce & Associates, P.A. dated March 10, 1995. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 3850 Wendell Boulevard, Wendell, NC 27591.
this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law.
sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale.
Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed.
This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period,
After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall
all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 17, 2024.
Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Homero Perez.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or
A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without
of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 4, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit:
BEING all of Lot 298, Chastain Subdivision, Phase Eight, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 2002, Page 989, Wake County Registry.
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 3316 Perkins Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27610.
A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 4, 2024 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit:
BEING all of Lot 8, Savannah Oaks
Subdivision, Phase 1, as shown on map entitled “Recombination for Savannah Oaks
Subdivision, Phase 1” and being recorded in Book of Maps 2008, Page 2193, Wake County Registry; and BEING all of Lot 8B, Savannah Oaks Subdivision as the same is shown on map entitled “Recombination of Lot 25 & Well Sites Survey Savannah Oaks Subdivision” and being recorded in Book of Maps 2008, Pages 374 through 376, Wake County Registry.
TOGETHER WITH a non-exclusive easement for the operation and maintenance of and access to a water line between the aforesaid well sites and Lot 8 over the water line and well access areas designated on said maps. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 8817 Wormsloe Drive, Knightdale, NC 27545.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Wanda Allen.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement
entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)].
Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.
If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the
Young.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Kenya M.
A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Woman accused of aiding escaped prisoner appears in court
The woman accused of helping an escaped prisoner in NC evade police appeared in court for the first time since her arrest. Jacobia Crisp was charged with aiding and abetting a fugitive and harboring an escapee. She could face more than five years in prison if she is convicted of both charges. Law enforcement says Crisp helped 30-year-old Ramone Alston elude police for multiple days after he escaped from a transport van in Hillsborough. He was later captured in Kannapolis at a hotel on Friday.
New school buses coming to NC
NCDMV is showcasing new school buses equipped with new technologies, including safety features, purchased using funds appropriated last year. The agency is using the new technologies and initiatives as part of school bus driver training for 2024. Earlier this year, the state announced it was purchasing 114 electric school buses using federal funds from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Grant Program. Many of these electric school buses are made in High Point at the Thomas Built Buses facility.
Trump, Harris crisscross NC as election heats up
Dueling visits showcase the importance of the state to winning the presidency
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record
ASHEVILLE — As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, North Carolina is taking center stage as a crucial swing state. In the last week, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made significant campaign stops, underscoring the state’s importance in the upcoming electoral contest.
Trump made appearances in Asheville last week and Asheboro on Wednesday, while Har-
ris spoke in Raleigh on Aug. 16. These high-profile visits highlight North Carolina’s status as a must-win state for both campaigns.
The significance of North Carolina in presidential politics has grown in recent elections. In 2020, Trump narrowly carried the state with 49.93% of the vote compared to Joe Biden’s 48.59%. This razor-thin margin of victory was even slimmer than Trump’s 2016 win when he secured 49.83% of the vote to Hillary Clinton’s 46.17%.
Recent polling data from RealClearPolitics shows a tight race in North Carolina, with an average lead of 1.2 points for Trump over Harris. Individual polls vary widely, with
some showing Harris ahead by as much as 2 points, while others have Trump leading by up to 9 points. This volatility in polling data suggests North Carolina remains very much in play for both parties.
The contrasting nature of the candidates’ events was evident in their recent visits. Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14 drew a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, with many more supporters waiting outside, unable to gain entry. Attendees had begun lining up in the early morning hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm of Trump’s base in the state.
In contrast, Harris’s event in Raleigh on Aug. 16 was a more intimate affair, primarily com-
Stanly County pastor charged with failing to report child sex assaults
Kenny Parker faces three counts of failing to report crimes against juveniles
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
ALBEMARLE — A pastor in Stanly County has been arrested after he allegedly failed to report child sex assault allegations inside his church, according to an Aug. 13 press release from the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office.
Albemarle resident Kenny Parker, who is listed as the pastor at Straitway Baptist Church on Carolina Avenue in Albemarle, has been charged with three counts of failing to report crimes against juveniles; arrest warrants state that the incidents occurred in 2009, 2014, and 2020. Parker has since been re -
leased on a $5,000 unsecured bond with an upcoming court date on Sept. 25. On May 30, 2024, the sheriff’s office began an investigation into a series of sexual assault allegations involving minors that spanned several years.
The office has confirmed that multiple parents informed Parker about their children being victims and that he did not report the information to law enforcement. North Carolina state law requires that everyone is considered a mandatory reporter, with no listed exceptions for confidentiality. A few days after Parker was arrested, the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office posted — and quickly deleted — another arrest notice on its social media page indicating that a separate person had been charged as an offender in the same sexual assault investigation.
Capt. Chris Huneycutt of the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office told SCJ on Aug. 20 the post was made in error and that Parker remains the only person charged in the ongoing case.
posed of invited supporters and members of the press. While smaller in scale, the vice president’s visit emphasized the Democratic campaign’s commitment to competing vigorously in North Carolina, and she announced some major policy initiatives. Both candidates focused their speeches on national issues rather than state-specific concerns, reflecting the broader themes of their respective campaigns. Trump continued to emphasize economic issues and border security, while Harris highlighted her vision for an “opportunity economy” and plans to lower the cost of living for American families.
As the election approaches, North Carolinians can expect to see more visits from both candidates and their surrogates. Campaign events are typically announced only a few days in advance, keeping supporters and the media on their toes. Both the Trump and Har-
“The second post was briefly there before we realized it had been made in error,” Huneycutt said. “That gentleman was actually 17 years old at the time of the offense, so he would have been a juvenile. Because of his age and the time of the arrest, it slipped through the cracks.”
Huneycutt mentioned that he hopes more people are willing to come forward to provide knowledge about Parker, Straitway Baptist Church, and any details related to coverups of abuse within the church’s community.
“It is a difficult case to work because it’s very difficult to get victims to come forward,” Huneycutt added.
Anyone with additional information is advised to call the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office at 704-986-3714.
THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
PHOTO COURTESY STANLY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Kenny Parker Albemarle resident
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left, former President Trump, pictured in Asheville last Wednesday, has made two stops in North Carolina in less than a week. Right, on Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made an economic speech in Raleigh and visited a local shop with Gov. Roy Cooper.
North State Journal
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P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer
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KAMALA from page 1
ris campaigns are well-funded and expected to pour significant resources into advertising and organizing efforts in North Carolina, as well as in other battleground states across the country.
The intense focus on North Carolina by both campaigns underscores the state’s potential to be a kingmaker (or queenmaker) in the 2024 election. With its 16 electoral votes and recent history of close contests, North Carolina represents a significant prize for either candidate.
As the campaign season heats up, voters in North Carolina will find themselves at the center of the national political conversation. The frequency of high-profile visits and the deluge of campaign advertising are set to increase, reflecting the state’s pivotal role in determining the next occupant of the White House.
With just over two months until Election Day — and absentee and early voting starting sooner than that — the battle for North Carolina’s hearts and minds is well underway. THURSDAY
Aug. 13
• Tia Marie Driscoll, 25, was arrested for driving while impaired.
• Kaylee Lynn Nahrgang, 24, was arrested for simple assault.
Aug. 14
• Lisa Dawn Honeycutt, 57, was arrested for larceny by changing price tag.
Aug. 16
• Brandon Kyle Pennington, 43, was arrested for driving while impaired.
Aug. 17
• Hannah Marie Bolton, 32, was arrested for assault by strangulation.
FRIDAY
Albemarle Police Department receives national accreditation
The department has met standards set by CALEA
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
ALBEMARLE — The Albemarle Police Department has once again received national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
For nearly 30 years, the APD has maintained its CALEA status as an accredited law enforcement agency, confirming that the department has met and achieved 461 standards related to life, health, safety, community engagement and personnel practices.
Members of the department attended the four-day Summer CALEA Conference in Winston-Salem that began on July 24. Following a pattern that began in July 1995, the CALEA Board of Commissioners voted to approve the APD’s accreditation request.
The accreditation lasts for four years, and the decision is rendered by a governing body of 21 commissioners following a public hearing and review of documentation.
“I want to thank all of the men and women of APD for
their dedication to helping us maintain our CALEA accreditation,” APD Police Chief Jason Bollhorst said in a press release. “This accreditation demonstrates APD’s commitment to maintaining high standards while working together as a team.”
For 45 years, CALEA has maintained its status as a credentialing authority for law enforcement’s major executive associations; the process begins with annual reports and training, continuing with onsite as-
sessments and full commission review hearings.
“Congratulations to the Albemarle Police Department,” the City of Albemarle wrote in a social media post. “The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies recently approved the APD to once again be recognized as a CALEA accredited law enforcement agency. CALEA is known as the gold standard in law enforcement accreditation.”
CALEA’s accreditation for
Hurricane Ernesto affects NC beaches with rip currents, house collapse
The home lost in Rodanthe was the seventh in the past four years
By Susan Haigh and Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press
Even with the storm hundreds of miles offshore, Hurricane Ernesto was still being felt Saturday along much of the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, with dangerous rip currents forcing public beaches to close during one of the final busy weekends of the summer season.
The storm’s high surf and swells also contributed to coastal damage, including the collapse of an unoccupied beach house into the water along North Carolina’s narrow barrier islands. Hurricane specialist Phil-
ippe Papin from the National Hurricane Center said Ernesto, which made landfall on the tiny British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, was a “pretty large” hurricane with a “large footprint of seas and waves” affecting the central Florida Atlantic coastline all the way north to Long Island in New York.
“That whole entire region in the eastern U.S. coastline are expecting to have high seas and significant rip current threats along the coast,” Papin said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes rip currents as “powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water” that move at speeds of up to 8 feet per second.
In the Outer Banks, the National Park Service confirmed the collapse of the house Friday night in Rodanthe, one of several communities on
Hatteras Island. No injuries were reported, the park service reported.
The park service said in a statement that other homes in and near Rodanthe appeared to have sustained damage.
Friday’s was the seventh such house collapse over the past four years on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a 70-mile stretch from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island that’s managed by the federal government. The sixth house collapsed in June.
The low-lying barrier islands are increasingly vulnerable to storm surges and to being washed over from both the Pamlico Sound and the sea.
The park service urged visitors this weekend to avoid the Rodanthe beaches and surf, adding that dangerous debris may be on the beach and the water for several miles. A portion of national seashore land
public safety agencies that meet policy and operation standards is based on evaluating the number of full-time employees in an agency coupled with the effectiveness of their respective responsibilities.
The commission’s accreditation process also focuses on six key standards: comprehensive and uniform written directives; reports and analyses; preparedness for critical incidents; community relationship-building and maintenance; independent review by subject matter experts; and continuous pursuit of excellence.
As a part of CALEA’s procedure for accreditation, the APD provides an opportunity for public feedback through the CALEA online accreditation public comment portal at cimrs2.calea.org.
The portal is designed to gather concerns from the public on the APD’s compliance with CALEA, as well as the department’s engagement in the service community; the information is considered in context to its relevance to compliance with CALEA accreditation.
Created in 1979, CALEA was a joint effort by four major law enforcement associations to bring together a credentialing authority: the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the National Sheriff’s Association (NSA), and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF).
north of Rodanthe also was closed to the public. Significant debris removal wasn’t expected until early next week after the elevated sea conditions subside, the park service said.
The National Weather Service issued coastal flooding and high surf advisories for the Outer Banks over the weekend and into the early parts of the week. It also warned of significant threats of rip currents, large waves or both reaching north to Virginia and Maryland beaches and south along the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and much of Florida.
In Bermuda, businesses were beginning to reopen after the storm passed and “we are on our way back to living a life of normalcy,” said Bermuda Security Minister Michael Weeks on Sunday.
There were no reports of major damage, said Lyndon Raynor of Bermuda’s Disaster Risk Reduction Mitigation Team. BELCO, Bermuda’s power company, said 50% of customers had electricity but more than 8,000 remained without it Sunday.
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@stanlyjournal.com | Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ALBEMARLE POLICE DEPARTMENT
Left to right: CALEA Executive Director Craig Hartley, APD Police Chief Jason Bollhorst, an unidentified woman, APD Assistant Chief J.T. Cranford, CALEA Commission Chair Marlon Lynch
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
Legacy media’s last gasp?
Legacy media are a propaganda outlet on behalf of the Democratic Party.
LAST WEEK, alleged comedian Stephen Colbert had on CNN’s Kaitlan Collins to discuss the 2024 presidential election. In the middle of the interview, Colbert began to ask Collins a question, in all sincerity: “I know you guys are objective over (at CNN), you just report the news as it is.”
Colbert, presumably, expected his audience — all Kamala Harris fans, since Colbert is the most left-leaning host on late night television — to nod along.
Instead, they laughed.
They laughed because everyone in America knows, at this point, that the media have become stenographers for the Democratic Party. That process was well underway decades ago but accelerated dramatically under Barack Obama.
Obama’s candidacy wasn’t treated like a normal candidacy in 2008; relevant stories ranging from his association with radical America-hating antisemite Jeremiah Wright to his corrupt connections in Chicago politics were quickly swept under the rug, deemed irrelevant in Obama’s quest for the White House. The media became cheerleaders.
And they haven’t stopped.
They spent four long years treating Donald Trump not just as a pariah but as a traitor to the country. Every Trump tweet was treated as a declaration of war on the American people; every Trump policy was greeted with the sort of horror normally reserved for nuclear war. Meanwhile, nonlegacy media outlets were deemed misinformation and disinformation, threats to the republic itself. Social media outlets that deigned to allow distribution of such alternative media were themselves targeted as abiding dangers to democracy.
Then Joe Biden was elected. For the next 3½ years, the media did their best to treat his policies as benevolent and intelligent, even as inflation climbed to four-decade highs and the Middle East burst into flames. They treated his obvious senility as a matter not of controversy but of established fact: It was a fact, they said, that he was doing just fine. Sure, he might be aging, but he was all there.
Then Joe Biden blew it all up. Insistent on his own durability and intellectual command — believing his own press clippings,
Religious freedom on campus
A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period.
“JEWISH STUDENTS were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith. This fact is so unimaginable and so abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom that it bears repeating.”
So wrote Judge Mark C. Scarsi in issuing a preliminary injunction this week to three Jewish students who sued UCLA after they were denied access to portions of the campus last spring.
“UCLA does not dispute this,” Scarsi continued. “Instead, UCLA claims that it has no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of its Jewish students because the exclusion was engineered by thirdparty protesters. But under constitutional principles, UCLA may not allow services to some students when UCLA knows that other students are excluded on religious grounds, regardless of who engineered the exclusion.”
UCLA is just plain wrong. It was responsible for protecting, and ensuring campus access, to all of the students. Instead, UCLA erected bike rack barriers around the encampment and allegedly hired security guards who allowed protesters to cross into the encampment, but not Zionists.
“Are you a Zionist?” news accounts at the time reported that the protestors called out to those seeking passage. Protestors approached the students seeking to cross, leaving them no choice but to turn back. What is as astounding as what happened
presumably — Biden engaged in a debate with Donald Trump. He proceeded to crumble on national television.
And for approximately three weeks, the media did their jobs. They asked questions. They brought pressure to bear on Democratic lawmakers and White House insiders.
And Joe Biden stepped aside.
Then, quick as lightning, the legacy media returned to their Obama-era identity: as water carriers for Kamala Harris. The same candidate they had once deemed incompetent and awkward, the same vice president they had once deemed irrelevant and off-putting, was now a goddess of political oratory. Her inheritance of the Democratic nomination meant a new round of legacy media prostration before the new crowned heir.
And the heir is not to be questioned. Not about her lies. Not about the policies of her administration. Not about her kaleidoscopically shifting positions or her hideously dishonest vice-presidential pick.
We are now 25 days into Kamala Harris’ nomination. She has not answered a single, solitary adversarial question. She has not sat for a single interview — even with allies. She has not done a single serious press conference.
And the media cheer.
That is why the Colbert audience scoffs at CNN. Because they know the truth, as everyone does: that the legacy media are a propaganda outlet on behalf of the Democratic Party. That they act as a Praetorian Guard for Kamala Harris. That they deserve less than zero respect for their pseudo-journalism. They may be able to maintain the current cone of silence around Harris. They might be able to propel her to the White House on vibes alone. But sooner or later, the American people will wise up to the legacy media and realize that they belong on the ash heap of history.
Ben Shapiro’s new collection, “Facts and Furious: The Facts About America and Why They Make Leftists Furious,” is available now. Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.
at UCLA is that a debate has ensued, and continued in the court action, as to whether it was antisemitic. According to newspaper reports, Pro-Palestinian students and faculty activists at UCLA, including a Faculty for Justice in Palestine group that filed a friend of the court brief in the injunction lawsuit, claimed that the protestors were anti-Zionist, but not against Jews, and that many protestors were Jewish.
Jews can be antisemites, too. The Jewish plaintiffs in this action, as the judge recognized, “assert that supporting the Jewish state of Israel is their sincerely held religious belief.” The fact that there were some Jews on the side of the protestors does not make their actions any less antisemitic, or abhorrent.
Did the students really need to bring a lawsuit to persuade UCLA to protect all of its Jewish students? Judging from UCLA’s reaction, apparently they did. The university, through Mary Osako, vice chancellor of strategic communications, complained that “(t)he district court’s ruling would improperly hamstring our ability to respond to events on the ground and to meet the needs of the Bruin community. We’re closely reviewing the judge’s ruling and considering all our options moving forward.”
“Hamstring (their) ability to respond”? What does that mean? They can’t put up bike racks to keep out Jews? They can’t just
protect the protesting bigots while allowing them to target Jews who support the existence of the state of Israel?
UCLA was not the only university that lost sight of its own responsibilities and blinked at verbal and physical harassment. But it was one of the ugliest occupations. The result was that UCLA lost control of its campus when violent protestors moved onto campus to break up the encampment itself. Hatred breeds more violence. What did they expect?
University attorneys also argued that significant changes took place since the encampment last April that mitigated the students’ concerns. The changes included shutting down newer encampments on the same days they went up, creating a new office of campus safety, putting in place a new police chief and strictly enforcing UCLA rules, including rules that prohibit overnight camping. The court was not convinced that these made an injunction unnecessary. Understandably so, given the history.
A new school year is beginning. There will be new challenges. The lesson of UCLA is clear. A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period. No student should ever be denied access to any part of campus because they believe in a Jewish state.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai
The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the divisive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Party at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shinawatra to hold the job, after her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties in the governing
Pinthongta Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and lawmakers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dictate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after less than a year in office. The
court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach for appointing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thailand’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push forward key policies such as economic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially mention Srettha’s signature proposal for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criticized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable economic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still intends to push forward a major economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health authorities said Sunday. The African nation has been roiled by a 16-month conflict and devastating floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cases of cholera have been detected across the county in recent weeks.
Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tal-
ly since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said. Cholera is a fast-developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering tensions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group exploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and oth-
er urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical facilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation, with famine already confirmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked northern region of Darfur.
Sudan’s conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and inter-
national rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have compounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to local authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major outbreak left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak began in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces. He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detected cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now work-
ing with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to implement a vaccination campaign.
Sudan’s military-controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a government delegation to meet with American officials in Cairo amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a statement the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramilitary group to pull out from people’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
STANLY SPORTS
Pfeiffer introduces 2024-25 student athletes
The Falcons’ fall season begins on Friday
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
MISENHEIMER — This past weekend in Misenheimer, Pfeiffer University provided its annual welcome-back event at Merner Gym for the 460-plus Falcons student-athletes as fall sports prepare for the 2024 season.
The Pfeiffer athletic department and coaching staff were introduced prior to a full group photo on Sunday. With preseason scrimmages currently underway, the Falcons’ athletic season officially kicks off on Friday afternoon.
The Pfeiffer volleyball team will be the first Falcon squad to compete in non-exhibition competition as the group travels to Emory University in Atlanta to face former USA South rival Huntingdon College in the Jenny McDowell Invitational at 4 p.m.
Both the Pfeiffer men’s and women’s soccer teams are scheduled to host a Friday dou-
More than 460 Pfeiffer studentathletes got together to celebrate the start of competition for the 2024 -25 school year.
bleheader at Lefko-Mills Field in Misenheimer as the first soccer games played on the newly-installed artificial turf, completed last winter.
The men will start at 5 p.m. against Guilford College, followed by the women’s match against former USA South rival Averett University at 7 p.m.
In other Pfeiffer sports news, the university’s athletic department announced earlier this month that men’s lacrosse coach Tucker Nelson has been appointed as Pfeiffer’s director of lacrosse, while Julia Barbato has been named to lead the women’s lacrosse program.
Nelson, who has led the Pfeiffer men’s lacrosse program for the past four years, boasts a career record of 55-19 (.743) and has guided the team to USA South championships in 2021, 2023, and 2024.
He will now oversee both the men’s and women’s teams, managing responsibilities such as recruiting, budgeting, and game scheduling.
“New challenge, excited to take it on,” Nelson wrote in a social media post. “Thank you to all those who have and continue
to support Pfeiffer lacrosse. Go Falcons!”
Over for the women’s lacrosse team, Barbato — a 2024 Pfeiffer graduate — will step in as interim head coach after a distinguished four-year playing career with the Falcons.
She holds prominent positions in the Pfeiffer record book, ranking second in career points (226), third in career assists (73), fourth in career goals (153), and 10th in career caused turnovers (74).
She is also tied with former Falcon standout and current High Point coach Lyndsey Boswell for the most points in a single game, scoring 14 points in 2021 with eight goals and six assists against Brevard.
Barbato earned Second Team All-USA South honors as a midfielder in 2024 and was also named to the USA South West Division Team in 2021; she started in 56 of the 58 games she played, amassing 153 career goals and 73 career assists for a total of 226 points.
The Pfeiffer lacrosse men’s and women’s teams finished the 2023 season with records of 16-2 and 5-13, respectively.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Emmy Talbert
North Stanly, volleyball
Emmy Talbert is a sophomore on the North Stanly volleyball team.
Last season, Talbert was second on the Comets in serving aces and third in kills and receptions. This year, North Stanly is off to a 3-4 start to the season, but Talbert has stepped up for the Comets. According to North Carolina Volleyball, she is among the ace leaders in the Charlotte region and ranks 21st overall with 63, or 0.7 per set.
Appalachian State, Texas State picked as conference favorites
by quarterback Joey Aguilar as expected offensive player of the year. Coach Shawn Clark believes his team is ready for something special.
By Peter Iacobelli
Associated Press
APPALACHIAN STATE is looking to add another major achievement in the Sun Belt Conference this season. Maybe more than one.
Like another conference title. And perhaps a spot in the expanded, 12-team College Football Playoff.
Appalachian State was picked to win the Sun Belt’s East Division in preseason selections, led
Appalachian State has overcome long odds before, most memorably in 2007 when the then-FCS program defeated fifth-ranked Michigan in the Big House, 34-32. Since joining the Sun Belt, the Mountaineers have won two league crowns, in 2018 and 2019. The Mountaineers enter the season with a lot of momentum after closing 2023 by winning six of their final seven games to go 9-5. Their only loss in that stretch came in the Sun Belt title game,
losing 49-23 at Troy. But they rebounded by defeating Miami (Ohio) 13-9 in the Cure Bowl.
Clark said his team competed hard all season but did not get the breaks during a 3-4 start.
“I knew we had a great football team, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t bounce your way,” he said. “It was a matter of conveying to our players that we were so close, and all we have to do is keep working.”
Led by Aguilar, there’s very little convincing to do about App State’s offense. Aguilar set school records with 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, 4,002 yards of total offense and 293 completions. Aguilar was overlooked by bigger
programs, playing at Diablo Valley College in California before getting contacted by the Mountaineers.
“I’ve just got to make the most of this opportunity, and we’ve got some unfinished business we’ve got to take care of next season,” Aguilar said. And maybe add another milestone season to Appalachian State history.
If not App State, then who?
Texas State, in its second season under coach G.J. Kinne, was picked to win the West Division and bring its high-powered offense to the league title game. The Bobcats led the Sun Belt with 36.7 points and 458.5 yards per game last season. Last year’s 8-5 record included a 45-21 win over Rice in the First Responder Bowl, Texas State’s first FBS bowl appearance. Last year’s top Sun Belt team, James Madison, reached its first bowl game and went 11-2 in
Appalachian State quarterback Joey Aguilar looks for an open teammate during a game last November. He’s expected to be one of the top offensive players in the Sun Belt this season.
just its second season as an FBS member. The Dukes, who saw coach Curt Cignetti leave for Indiana, were picked second in the East behind App State.
Two-time defending league champion Troy was picked second in the West. The Trojans lost their coach, too, with Jon Sumrall going to Tulane.
Players to watch
Aguilar is expected to dominate among offensive players, but he’s not alone. Jordan McCloud, the conference offensive player of the year in 2023 for James Madison, moved to Texas State, where he’s expected to lead a prolific offense that also includes Ismail Mahdi, who ran for 1,331 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Linebacker Jason Henderson of Old Dominion is the preseason defensive player of the year. Henderson led the country with 14.2 tackles per game.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
The Mountaineers have a College Football Playoff berth in their sites
The
Reddick wins rain-delayed NASCAR Cup race at Michigan
The 23XI Racing driver earned his second victory of 2024
By Larry Lage The Associated Press
BROOKLYN, Mich. — Tyler
Reddick took the lead on a restart in the second overtime to win at Michigan International Speedway on Monday, opening up another spot for a driver in the Cup Series’ playoffs. Reddick is one of 12 drivers with a place secured in the postseason, leaving four spots available with races remaining at Daytona and Darlington. He also won a Cup Series race four months ago in his No. 45 Toy-
ota for 23XI, the team owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan.
Martin Truex Jr. got loose in the No. 19 Toyota on lap 194, bringing out the yellow flag and a restart with six laps to go. Reddick was out front on the first restart and the race went to a second overtime when Ross Chastain was running 11th and was part of a crash that brought out another yellow.
William Byron led the second restart but Reddick passed him.
Kyle Larson, who leads the Cup standings and was the BetMGM Sportsbook favorite to win the race, lost control of
the No. 5 Chevrolet on lap 115 and several cars were tangled up in the mess.
A few laps later, Joey Logano took his damaged No. 22 Ford to the garage and Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota took a hit to stunt the relative success the on-thebubble driver was having in the race.
The pileup led to Logano finishing 33rd, with Larson one spot behind in the 36-car field.
Austin Dillon was 17th, a week after he wrecked Logano and Hamlin on the final lap to win at Richmond and had his automatic spot in the playoffs revoked by NASCAR. Dillon’s appeal is scheduled for Wednesday.
NASCAR suspended the
Michigan race after running out of time Sunday because of rain.
Cars went to pit road on lap 51 of the 200-lap race on Sunday to wait and see if the rain would go away in time to get at least half of the race completed to make it official and avoid having it spill over into an extra day for the second straight year at Michigan.
However, engines were idle until Monday morning, with Chase Elliott as the leader. Elliott finished 15th.
Hamlin started on the pole after rain washed out qualifying Saturday and precipitation delayed the start of the race, sending cars to pit row after a few pace laps.
Jet dryers did laps to remove
Bears assistant King couldn’t pass up NFL opportunity
The female NFL coaching pioneer left a career coaching basketball
By Rob Maaddi
The Associated Press
JENNIFER KING was a champion women’s basketball coach when she made the decision to pursue a career in football.
She hasn’t had to look back. Within three years of switching sports, King became the first black female full-time NFL coach when Washington hired her in 2021 as assistant running backs coach. She spent three seasons with the Commanders before joining Matt Eberflus’ staff with the Chicago Bears this year as an offensive assistant, focusing on running backs.
King’s journey began in 2018 when she met then-Panthers coach Ron Rivera at the NFL’s Women’s Forum, an annual networking event.
ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO
Chicago Bears running back Ian Wheeler (33) celebrates with offensive assistant running backs coach Jennifer King after scoring during a preseason game.
When she met Rivera, he already knew who she was from her basketball pedigree. Rivera’s wife, Stephanie, was an assistant coach in the WNBA and she told him a woman who plays the game would do well in coaching.
“He invited me over for rookie minicamp,” King said. “I thought I’d be there for two days, but it turned into about four months.”
King spent the summer of 2018 as a coaching intern for the Panthers, working with wide receivers. She returned to Carolina to serve as a running backs coaching intern in 2019.
at least some of the moisture to make racing potentially possible, but the weather didn’t cooperate.
Two-plus hours later, drivers got back into their cars and Kyle Larson took the lead on the opening lap and was kept it by going 200-plus mph on straightaways and about 180 mph in the turns.
Kyle Busch won the second stage, the first for him and Richard Childress Racing this season. Busch became the 19th driver to win a stage in 2024, setting a single-season record, and became the sixth to win a stage in every year since NASCAR added the wrinkle in 2017.
Up next
Haulers had more than 1,000 miles of highway to transport cars to Daytona Beach, Florida, where qualifying was scheduled Friday for Saturday night’s race.
The regular season wraps up the following week at Darlington.
the internship, the one thing I appreciated was she was smart enough to know what she didn’t know. And you could tell because she became really inquisitive. She asked good questions, she listened, and she didn’t pretend to know. Believe me, I’ve been around (male) coaches who pretend to know. And, when they do that, usually, they get it wrong. But she just listened when she didn’t know and that’s what truly intrigued me was that she was willing to just take a backseat, listen, take it in and ask questions.”
King said she hasn’t experienced challenges being one of the few female coaches in a male-dominated industry.
King had just led Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Division II title. But football was first in her heart. She played quarterback and safety on a women’s tackle football team and wanted an opportunity in coaching.
a championship. I was national coach of the year. Like, things were going really well for me. And to just leave was difficult, but I just felt it was something that I couldn’t pass up.”
“I always liked football more,” King said. “But it was hard to leave basketball. We had won
King’s basketball team practiced close enough to the Panthers’ training facility that she could hear and watch them.
When Rivera became the head coach in Washington in 2020, King again joined his staff as a coaching intern. He gave her a full-time job the following year.
“She had a drive about her that just really said she wanted to do this, and she also played the game,” Rivera said. “I just thought that she had this desire, this drive to want to do this at the top level, and I wanted to create an opportunity.
“As we were going through
“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great staffs,” she said. “Coach Flus, we have a great staff here. It’s all about development, which is great. I love it. He’s big on leadership. So, the challenges haven’t been the same as possibly people would think. Like it hasn’t been a lot of: ‘Oh, it’s like a woman here.’ I haven’t really experienced any of that. It’s all about building those relationships and trust in the building with the players and the staff that you’re working with.
CARLOS OSORIO / AP PHOTO
With rain clouds approaching on Sunday afternoon, drivers compete during the NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway. The race was completed Monday morning.
Barbara Jean (Taylor) Drye
Barbara Winfrey Floyd
Dwight Farmer
Melvin Douglas Watkins
January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023
James Roseboro
June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023
Deborah “Debbie” White
Mr. Theodore “Ted” Clinton
John B. Kluttz
March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023
Bobby Belk
August 13, 2024
April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023
April 26, 1943 –August 14, 2024
Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at her home.
Barbara was born April 17, 1936 in North Carolina to the late Robert Lee Taylor and the late Eva Belle Watts Taylor. She was also preceded in death by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor.
Survivors include children, Debbie (Mike) Williams of Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Curry of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Samantha (Destiny) Smith of Oakboro, Bradley Smith of Oakboro, Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterin-law, Beatrice Goodman; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved cats, Bo and Garfield.
Barbara Winfrey Floyd, 81, of Albemarle passed away on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, in Atrium Health Stanly after a battle with ALS and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Her funeral service will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Centerview Baptist Church with Rev. Adam Hatley officiating. Burial will follow in the Centerview Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:303:30 p.m. prior to the service.
Born April 26, 1943, in Stanly County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Robert Winfrey and Alta Rae Tucker Winfrey. She was a member of Centerview Baptist Church and was a retired custodian with the Stanly County School System. Mrs. Floyd was a long-time seasonal worker at Morrow Mountain State Park. She loved reading and mowing at Morrow Mountain and was known for her infectious laugh.
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.
She was preceded in death by her husband, David James Floyd. Survivors include son David Lowder (Renda) of Albemarle, daughter Beverly LaRue of Albemarle, brothers Robert “Bob” Winfrey (Vickie) of Albemarle and Michael Winfree (June) of Clayton, NC, two grandchildren Samantha Lowder and Matthew Lowder, and sisters-in-law Dianne Winfree of Richfield and Annie Winfree of Candor as well as many nieces and nephews and a beloved caregiver, Crystal DeMoreta. In addition to her second husband, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Lonnie Lowder, siblings Donald Winfree, Gerald Winfree, Glenda Wages, sister-inlaw Carolyn Winfree and brotherin-law Joe Wages. The family requests that memorials be made to Tillery Compassionate Care, tillerycomapssionatecare.org or to Centerview Baptist Church, 508 State Rd., 1650, Albemarle, NC 28001.
August 17, 1950 –August 12, 2024
Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, of Norwood died Sunday morning, January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes.
Melvin Douglas Watkins, 73, of Albemarle, passed away on August 12, 2024, at Atrium Health Stanly.
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.
A memorial service is scheduled at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at the Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care Chapel. There will be a private burial at a later date. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 6-8 p.m. at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle.
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.
Dwight was an avid gardener, bird watcher and Carolina fan.
Mr. Watkins was born August 17, 1950, in Stanly County to the late James and Jessie Watkins. He was affectionately known as “Duke” growing up. Melvin is lovingly survived by his wife, Deborah Moses-Watkins. Those also left to cherish his memory are a faithful son, James, and a faithful stepdaughter, Alyssia.
He is survived by his wife Hilda Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Lowe (David) of Norwood; one sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Lowe.
Mr. Watkins is also survived by children, Inez Lowery (Rick), Kamisha Wall Steele, Shantina Allen Benjamin (James), Donna Allen, Cassandra Little (Jr), Anthony Allen (Zada), Kashunda Gainey and James Watkins; grandchildren Kendra, Xavier, Patrice, Shaquilla, Whitney, James, Justin, Michael, Courtney, Anajha, Henry, Jacob, Olivia and Chauncey; great-grandchildren Elijah, Lauriana and Makkhi.
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.
Mr. Watkins is predeceased by his brothers, Steve and Jimmy Watkins, and a daughter, Lydia Watkins Bundgard.
Melvin was a great husband and loved his family dearly. He was a faithful member of Bennettsville AME Zion Church. Mr. Watkins lived many years in Minnesota where he became a huge Minnesota Vikings fan. He loved Western television shows and took pride in how he dressed. He also loved music and in his earlier years loved to dance.
The family would like to extend a sincere thank you for the love and support to Derrick, his aide, Gloria, a family friend, their neighbors and the Staff at Atrium Health Stanly.
In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting monetary donations to distribute to organizations that aided in Mr. Watkins’ healthcare. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Watkins family.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com
June 21, 1951 –August 14, 2024
James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Anson Health and Rehab.
September 20, 1952 –August 15, 2024
October 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023
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.
Deborah “Debbie” White, 73, of Locust passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family. A memorial service is scheduled at 5 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the Community Church of Mt. Pleasant. (CCMP 400 N Main St.).
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.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2-4 p.m. prior to the service at CCMP. Per Debbie’s request, please attend casual, NO ties!
Mr. Theodore (Ted) Clinton, age 71, went to be with His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, August 15, 2024, in his home and surrounded by family.
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.
Bobby Eugene Belk, of Locust, passed away on August 13, 2024, at the age of 83.
He is predeceased by his wife, Janice Belk, father, Gene Belk, mother, Eva Lee Hunter, stepmother, Zelda Belk, sister, Marie Hawks, and brother, Joe Belk.
Bobby is lovingly remembered by his son, Robert Belk, daughter-in-law, Shanda Belk, grandchildren Sebastian Belk, Tyler Belk, Mariah Norton, Jeff Younts, Kala McDermott, and sisters Carolyn Oxendine, Nancy Sutherland and Kathy Gillenwater.
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.
Debbie was born June 21, 1951, in Mecklenburg County to the late Henry and Rachel Ervin. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Richard White, of 53 years. Those left to cherish her memory are sons, Philip White and his wife Chrissy and their daughter, Lauren, of Concord; Kevin White and his wife Adrienne and their children Jacob, Kourtney and Kameryn of Huntersville; and daughter, Ginger Eagle, and husband, Lynn, and their children Darren and Meredith of Concord. She is also survived by siblings, Jimmy Ervin and his wife Jo of Texas; Brenda Lemmond of Matthews; and Hank Ervin of Massachusetts and numerous nieces and nephews.
Debbie was actively involved in church her whole life. She was very involved with the youth at Back Creek ARP, Mallard Creek Presbyterian, and Cooks Presbyterian. She loved being involved in her grandkids’ lives, especially their athletic endeavors, where she was their biggest fan. Ms. Debbie was always ready for family time; she would always get excited when the kids and grandkids would come over, even preparing the house and meals to invite them.
Darrick
Debbie loved fiercely and will be sorely missed by all who knew her!
Baldwin
January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Southern Oncology, Levine Cancer Institute and Hospice of Cabarrus County.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (Komen.org) or Hospice of Cabarrus County (5003 Hospice Ln., Kannapolis).
Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Locust is serving the White family.
Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.
He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.
He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.
He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree. We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.
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.
Theodore was born in Orrville, OH, and was preceded in death by his father and mother, Russell and Elizabeth Clinton, and sister, Mary Markley of Akron, OH. Theodore is survived by a brother, Russell (Bill) Clinton of Marshallville, OH; a sister, Rhea Marcinko of Akron, OH; son Jason Clinton of New London, NC; daughters Rosetta Johnson of Hickory, NC and Amanda Nicholson and husband Gabriel Nicholson of Albemarle, NC; six grandchildren - Erika Clinton of Albemarle, NC; Yasmen Johnson, Malia Johnson and Dayveon Johnson of Hickory, NC; Macille Nicholson and Asher Nicholson of Albemarle, NC and 1 greatgrandchild, Kahlani Johnson, of Hickory, NC. Ted was born on September 20, 1952, in Orrville, Ohio. He grew up in Marshallville, Ohio, and worked at his father’s grocery store (Clinton’s Grocery) throughout his childhood. He attended Smithville High School and graduated from Wayne County Joint Vocational School with a certificate in welding. Ted relocated to Stanly County, NC in 1986. He was a member of the Marshallville Fire Department (Ohio), Badin Fire Department, East Side Fire Department and Lake Tillery Fire Department over his 50 year career.
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.
He was a loving Father and Paw-Paw who loved his grandchildren so much and he was always willing to help anyone.
His visitation will be held at 2 p.m., on Sunday, August 18th, 2024, at the Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Locust, 501 Central Ave., Locust, NC 28097. Funeral service to follow at 3 p.m. Burial will take place at Benton’s Crossroads Baptist Church, in Unionville.
Flowers may be sent to: Stanly Funeral Home and Cremation Care of Locust.
DEATH NOTICES
Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters Amy and Laura. Doris raised Amy and Laura in North Augusta, SC. Doris was an incredible neonatal intensive care nurse for most of her career, and this was her passion. The Augusta Chronicle did a feature on her in 1985. She was a clinical nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia at University Hospital NICU and worked there for 20 years. During this time, Doris mentored young nurses and assisted in saving the lives of so many babies. She also worked for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 years of nursing.
• On August 6, 2024, Johnny Wayne Smith, 54, left this world unexpectedly to join his heavenly Father and all his family and friends that preceded him.
John restored many cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Awardthe highest award given to members at the national level.
Our Beloved father, brother, grandfather, father-in-law and friend, devoted his entire life to serving God and others. Ted was a complete giver of himself, a proud grandfather and Volunteer Firefighter of 50 Years. He enjoyed serving as a greeter at Prospect Baptist Church and would be found at his post, rain or shine.
In his spare time, he enjoyed nothing more than sharing a cup of coffee, reading his Bible, porch swing sitting, listening to Southern gospel music and spending time with family. Ted will always be remembered as a faithful servant of God.
Services for Mr. Theodore (Ted) Clinton will be held on August 21, 2024, at 12 p.m. at Prospect Baptist Church with Rev. Tony Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Prospect Baptist Church Cemetery in Albemarle, North Carolina. The family will receive friends at the church from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. prior to the service.
This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men. John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) of Asheville, NC and Seth William McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Meredith, Grant, Victoria and Ronan. John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.
Doris was a gentle and sweet spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left you feeling uplifted after talking with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle. She especially loved helping at church with older adults, youth, and children.
She was especially talented at sewing from a young age and made gifts for friends, Christmas ornaments, Halloween Costumes, doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, outfits for Amy and Laura, and Christening gowns for each of her grandchildren.
Doris was preceded in death by her father Arthur Raymond Jones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Jones, and her sister Maryanne Jones Brantley. Survivors include her two precious daughters: Amy Cameron Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.
Doris Jones Coleman
STATE & NATION
San Francisco goes after deepfake nude images of women, girls
The city filed a lawsuit that takes on AI
By Matt O’Brien and Haleluya Hadero
The Associated Press
NEARLY A YEAR after AI-generated nude images of high school girls upended a community in southern Spain, a juvenile court this summer sentenced 15 of their classmates to a year of probation.
But the artificial intelligence tool used to create the harmful deepfakes is still easily accessible on the internet, promising to “undress any photo” uploaded to the website within seconds.
Now a new effort to shut down the app and others like it is being pursued in California, where San Francisco this week filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit that experts say could set a precedent but will also face many hurdles.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe,” said David Chiu, the elected city attorney of San Francisco who brought the case against a group of widely visited websites tied to entities in California, New Mexico, Estonia, Serbia, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe.”
David Chiu, city attorney of San Francisco
which are unavailable in phone app stores but still easily found on the internet.
“There are a number of sites where we don’t know at this moment exactly who these operators are and where they’re operating from, but we have investigative tools and subpoena authority to dig into that,” Chiu said. “And we will certainly utilize our powers in the course of this litigation.”
through social media.
In one of the first widely publicized cases last September in Almendralejo, Spain, a physician who helped bring it to the public’s attention after her daughter was among the victims said she is satisfied by the severity of the sentence their classmates are facing after a court decision earlier this summer.
But it is “not only the responsibility of society, of education, of parents and schools but also the responsibility of the digital giants that profit from all this garbage,” Dr. Miriam Al Adib Mendiri said in an interview Friday.
She applauded San Francisco’s action but said more efforts are needed, including from bigger companies like California-based Meta and its subsidiary WhatsApp, which was used to circulate the images in Spain.
“These images are used to bully, humiliate and threaten women and girls,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “And the impact on the victims has been devastating on their reputation, mental health, loss of autonomy and, in some instances, causing some to become suicidal.”
The lawsuit brought on behalf of the people of California alleges that the services broke numerous state laws against fraudulent business practices, nonconsensual pornography and the sexual abuse of children. But it can be hard to determine who runs the apps,
Woman charged in plot to extort Elvis’ family, auction off Graceland
The Missouri woman posed as three people during the scheme
By Alanna Durkin Richer and Jonathan Mattise The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Missouri woman has been arrested on charges she orchestrated a brazen scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s family by trying to auction off his Graceland mansion and property before a judge halted the mysterious foreclosure sale, the Justice Department said Friday.
Lisa Jeanine Findley, 53, of Kimberling City, falsely claimed Presley’s daughter borrowed $3.8 million from a bogus private lender and had pledged Graceland as collateral for the loan before her death last year, prosecutors said. She then threatened to sell Graceland to the higher bidder if Presley’s family didn’t pay a $2.85 million settlement, according to authorities.
Finley posed as three different people allegedly involved with the fake lender, fabricated loan documents, and published a fraudulent foreclosure notice in a Memphis newspaper announcing the auction of
Graceland in May, prosecutors said. A judge stopped the sale after Presley’s granddaughter sued.
Experts were baffled by the attempt to sell off one of the most storied pieces of real estate in the country using names, emails and documents that were quickly suspected to be phony.
Graceland opened as a mu-
seum and tourist attraction in 1982 and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A large Presley-themed entertainment complex across the street from the museum is owned by Elvis Presley Enterprises. The announcement of charges came on the 47th anniversary of Presley’s death at the age of 42.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took
Many of the tools are being used to create realistic fakes that “nudify” photos of clothed adult women, including celebrities, without their consent. But they have also popped up in schools around the world, from Australia to Beverly Hills in California, typically with boys creating the images of female classmates that then circulate
advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportunity to prey on the name and financial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate, attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her personal gain,” said Eric Shen, inspector in charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. An attorney for Findley, who used multiple aliases, was not listed in court documents. A voicemail left with a phone number believed to be associated with Findley was not immediately returned, nor was an email sent to an address prosecutors say she had used in the scheme.
She’s charged with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The mail fraud charge carries up to 20 years in prison. She remained in custody after a brief federal court appearance in Missouri, according to court papers.
In May, a public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13-acre estate said Promenade Trust, which controls the Graceland museum, owes $3.8 million after failing to repay a 2018 loan. Riley Keough, Presley’s granddaughter and an actor, inherited the trust and ownership of the home after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, last year. An attorney for Keough didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on Friday.
Keough filed a lawsuit claiming fraud, and a judge halted
While schools and law enforcement agencies have sought to punish those who make and share the deepfakes, authorities have struggled with what to do about the tools themselves. Organizations that have been tracking the growth of AI-generated child sexual abuse material will be closely following the San Francisco case.
The lawsuit “has the potential to set legal precedent in this area,” said Emily Slifer, the director of policy at Thorn, an organization that works to combat the sexual exploitation of children.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family.”
Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspection Service
the proposed auction with an injunction. Naussany Investments and Private Lending — the bogus lender authorities now say Findley created — said Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for the loan, according to the foreclosure sale notice. Keough’s lawsuit alleged that Naussany presented fraudulent documents regarding the loan in September 2023 and that Lisa Maria Presley never borrowed money from Naussany.
Kimberly Philbrick, the notary whose name is listed on Naussany’s documents, indicated she never met Lisa Marie Presley nor notarized any documents for her, according to the estate’s lawsuit. The judge said the notary’s affidavit brings into question “the authenticity of the signature.”
The judge in May halted the foreclosure sale of the beloved Memphis tourist attraction, saying Elvis Presley’s estate could be successful in arguing that a company’s attempt to auction Graceland was fraudulent.
GABRIELLE LURIE / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE VIA AP
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu speaks at a public safety town hall meeting in San Francisco last September.
MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO
A Missouri woman has been arrested after being accused of orchestrating an extortion plot involving Graceland and Elvis Presley’s heir.
Randolph record
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Back-to-School
Prayer Night is on Sunday
Asheboro
The Back-to-School Prayer Night in Randolph County is set for 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Sessions will be held at Asheboro City School and Randolph County School System locations at about 40 sites. The sessions usually last no more than a half-hour. The program is sponsored by Randolph Christian Men, a group that took over organization of the event in 2014.
Organizers are presenting this event as a time to pray for all school personnel in advance of the new school year. The first day of classes for Asheboro City Schools and the Randolph County School System comes Monday for schools on the traditional calendar.
Asheboro shooting leads to charges, suspect jailed
Asheboro Charges have been filed after a shooting last week on North Fayetteville Street. Alexander Pulido, 21, was charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, shooting into an occupied vehicle, going armed to the terror of the public, injury to personal property and discharge of a firearm in city limits, according to information from the Asheboro Police Department. The alleged incident occurred around 3 p.m. Aug. 15 in the street’s 1400 block.
Pulido was jailed under no bond. The
Trump, Harris crisscross NC as election heats up
Dueling visits showcase the importance of the state to winning the presidency
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record
ASHEVILLE — As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, North Carolina is taking center stage as a crucial swing state. In the last week, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made significant campaign stops, underscoring the state’s importance in the upcoming electoral contest.
Trump made appearances in Asheville last week and Asheboro on Wednesday, while Harris spoke in Raleigh on Aug. 16. These high-profile visits highlight North Carolina’s status as a must-win state for both campaigns.
The significance of North Carolina in presidential politics has grown in recent elections. In 2020, Trump narrowly carried the state with 49.93%
of the vote compared to Joe Biden’s 48.59%. This razor-thin margin of victory was even slimmer than Trump’s 2016 win when he secured 49.83% of the vote to Hillary Clinton’s 46.17%.
Recent polling data from RealClearPolitics shows a tight race in North Carolina, with an average lead of 1.2 points for Trump over Harris. Individual polls vary widely, with some showing Harris ahead by as much as 2 points, while others have Trump leading by up to 9 points. This volatility in polling data suggests North Carolina remains very much in play for both parties.
The contrasting nature of the candidates’ events was evident in their recent visits. Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14 drew a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, with many more supporters waiting outside, unable to gain entry. Attendees had begun lining up in the early morning hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm of Trump’s base in the state.
In contrast, Harris’s event in Raleigh on Aug. 16 was a more intimate affair, primarily composed of invited supporters and members of the press. While smaller in scale, the vice president’s visit emphasized the Democratic campaign’s commitment to competing vigorously in North Carolina, and she announced some major policy initiatives.
Both candidates focused their speeches on national issues rather than state-specific concerns, reflecting the broader themes of their respective campaigns. Trump continued to emphasize economic issues and border security, while Harris highlighted her vision for an “opportunity economy” and plans to lower the cost of living for American families. As the election approach-
Randolph Early College nabs national destination again
Randolph Early College was the top awarded school at the 2024 Beta National Convention
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Schools Board of Education met on Monday.
The board recognized students from Randolph Early College High School for being the top-awarded school in the
nation at the 2024 Beta National Convention, which hosted more than 360 high schools from around the country.
In total Randolph Early College earned 32 total awards with five first-place finishes in the competition. It is the third year in a row that REC has been the top-awarded school in the nation.
“We’re here tonight because of students,” said Superintendent Stephen Gainey. “We’re here because kids are doing great things every day. The
number of kids that spoke to me and had the confidence … they’re going to speak to you just like they’re 30 years old. They have that confidence because that’s what these competitions and these events that they participate in teaches. That’s what all these events outside the classroom are about.” The first-place winners were Beatriz Vences Solis (seventh-grade Spanish), Alvin Liu
es, North Carolinians can expect to see more visits from both candidates and their surrogates. Campaign events are typically announced only a few days in advance, keeping supporters and the media on their toes. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are well-funded and expected to pour significant resources into advertising and organizing efforts in North Carolina, as well as in other battleground states across the country.
The intense focus on North Carolina by both campaigns underscores the state’s potential to be a kingmaker (or queenmaker) in the 2024 election. With its 16 electoral votes and recent history of close contests, North Carolina represents a significant prize for either candidate.
As the campaign season heats up, voters in North Carolina will find themselves at the center of the national political conversation. The frequency of high-profile visits and the deluge of campaign advertising are set to increase, reflecting the state’s pivotal role in determining the next occupant of the White House.
With just over two months until Election Day — and absentee and early voting starting sooner than that — the battle for North Carolina’s hearts and minds is well underway.
“They have that confidence because that’s what these competitions and these events that they participate in teaches.”
Superintendent Stephen Gainey
THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
victim was Cedric Lee Jr., who was transported to a hospital in Guilford County.
Recent polling data shows a tight race in North Carolina.
AP PHOTO/JULIA NIKHINSON
AP PHOTO/JULIA NIKHINSON
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left, former President Trump, pictured in Asheville last Wednesday, has made two stops in North Carolina in less than a week. Right, on Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made an economic speech in Raleigh and visited a local shop with Gov. Roy Cooper.
Group donates vehicle to Victory Junction
Randolph Record LEVEL CROSS — Victory Junction accepted a vehicle during a presentation to NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty last week. The gift, which came as part of National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program, was presented with the idea that it would benefit campers at the facility as it will aid in moving play equipment and medical supplies.
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Bob Sutton, Randolph Editor
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“This donation of a truck for our Victory Junction team and campers allows us to allocate more resources to serving children with medical conditions, giving many kids their first chance to ride a horse, catch a fish, shoot a bullseye at the archery range or make a friend,” said Kyle Petty, who is Richard’s son. “This truck carries dreams.”
AllState donated the 2019 Ford F150. CARSTAR of
Goldsboro had technicians refurbish the vehicle. NABC Recycled Rides is a program in which businesses representing various facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Victory Junction is a camp for children with serious illnesses and chronic medical conditions. Children attend at no cost.
NASCAR racing returning to Bowman Gray Stadium in ’25
It’ll be the first Cup Series racing at the stadium in more than 50 years
The Associated Press
WINSTON-SALEM — Bowman Gray Stadium will host a NASCAR race for the first time in more than a half-century, opening next season with an exhibition race on a site with a rich history in auto racing.
NASCAR announced Sunday that Winston-Salem will be the home of The Clash on Feb. 2, bringing the sport back to the short track for
CRIME LOG
Aug. 13
• Michael Antonio Harris, 40, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro Police Department (APD) for misuse of 911 system.
• Timothy Dewayne Temkey, 46, of Randleman, was arrested by Randolph County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) for injury to personal property, communicating threats, and second-degree trespass.
Aug. 14
• Jimmy Lee Johnson, 39, of Salisbury, was arrested by RCSO for simple possession of Schedule VI controlled substance and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
• Alexander Pulido, 21, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for discharge of weapon into occupied property, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, injury to personal property, going armed
SCHOOLS from page A1
(11th-grade math), Lacey Allen, Kellan Auman and Mariela Campuzano Rodriguez (Book Battle), Dida Ahmed, Noah Allsbrook, Dameian Elliott and Alvin Liu (Convention Invention), and Dida Ahmed, Mariam Ahmed, Landon Allmon, Morgan Baker, Mariela Campuzano-Rodriguez, Jonathan Dean, Dameian Elliott, Harmony Huggins, Hannah McNeill, Christina Nguyen, Anna-Kaye Poole, Sha’Dayah Pugh and Benjamin Rietschel (Reimagine Recreate Recycle). The board was also present-
the first time since 1971.
The Clash is moving from the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum after a three-year stay, following a run in Florida that dated to its inception in 1979 as the kickoff for the Daytona 500.
Bowman Gray Stadium’s racing operations have been managed by NASCAR since March, starting a lease with the city of Winston-Salem that lasts through 2050.
NASCAR founders bought the stadium in 1949, a dozen years after it was built, and had weekly races. It hosted Cup Series races from 1958 to 1971.
“As NASCAR’s first weekly racetrack, Bowman Gray
to the terror of people, violating a local ordinance, and attempted first-degree murder.
• Eric Daniel Stilwell, 48, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for felony possession of Schedule I controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Aug. 15
• Mia Scotton Byers, 26, of Randleman, was arrested by APD for misdemeanor larceny, possession of stolen goods, and first-degree trespass.
Aug. 16
• Travis Neil Freeman, 35, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass.
• Brandon Dale Sylvester, 33, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for multiple counts of firstdegree sexual exploitation of a minor, first-degree statutory
ed with graduation statistics for the Class of 2024.
In total, RCS issued 1,071 diplomas and five certificates for the 2023-24 school year.
Of those graduates, 323 students (30%) will reportedly be going to four-year colleges, 437 (40.6%) will be going to either community college, private junior colleges or a trade school, 267 (24.8%) will be entering the workforce, 39 (3.6%) will enter the military, and 10 students indicated that they were still undecided.
“One of the pieces of data that I always look at is the undecided students,” Gainey said. “That number fluctuated
Stadium holds a special place as the original home to grassroots racing,” said Ben Kennedy, an executive vice president for NASCAR. “With a history of intense competition, we are proud to host The Clash at the ‘The Madhouse.’”
NASCAR tried something new and built a temporary track inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 2022 for the first year in a three-year run.
When Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Summer Olympics, the opening ceremony will incorporate the century-old facility and the venue also will be the home of track and field as it was in 1932 and 1984.
rape, first-degree statutory sex offense, and indecent liberties with a child.
Aug. 17
• Katrina Lynn Drake, 34, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for felony fleeing/eluding arrest with a motor vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, reckless driving to endanger, failure to heed light or siren, no operator’s license, resisting a public officer, failure to stop at stop sign/ flashing red light, misdemeanor larceny, and embezzlement.
• Carlos Itzep, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for misdemeanor larceny, possession of stolen goods, public consumption, and injury to personal property.
• Shirley Ann Maybelle Smith, 33, of High Point, was arrested by APD for impeding traffic by sitting/ standing/lying.
a lot during the pandemic, but now we’re headed back in the direction we were prior to it. I credit that to our teachers and staff. It happens all the way from K-12, but it really happens a lot when we get to that high school level. That’s when they really start making decisions on what they’re going to do.”
In addition, Randolph County graduates who are pursuing higher education were awarded more than $28 million in scholarship money this year.
The Randolph County Schools Board of Education will next meet Sept. 16.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:
Aug. 24
It’s All Been Done Before
7 p.m.
Sunset Theatre
234 Sunset Ave., Asheboro Brandon Shepherd will be doing a great variety of music covering many genres. There will be something for everyone. Tickets sold at the door and Jed’s Barbecue.
Aug. 25
Summer Kiln Opening Joseph Sand Pottery
1 to 5 p.m. 2555 George York Road, Randleman
Aug. 27
Randolph County Farmers Market 2 to 6 p.m. 214 Park Dr., Archdale
Asheboro Downtown Farmers Market
7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
134 S Church St.
This is a growers-only market where you will find local, homegrown and home-processed products from Randolph County. The farmers featured are from diverse and minority backgrounds. For more information, call 336-626-1 240.
Aug. 28
Historic Landmark Commission Meeting
Asheboro Public Library 6 to 7 p.m.
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@ randolphrecord.com
Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
COLUMN | RICHARD HUDSON
Supporting America’s workforce and lowering your everyday costs
Families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Biden took office.
IF YOU HAD an extra $1,000 in your wallet, what would you do with it?
Unfortunately, that is what “Bidenomics” is costing you every month just to pay for the same goods and services as you did almost four years ago — but it doesn’t have to be that way.
The American Dream to have a good paying job and pursue a better life for your family has always been the cornerstone of what makes our country so great. However, skyrocketing prices, fueled by inflation, continue to make hardworking families struggle to make ends meet.
Right now, the average household in North Carolina spends $119 more a month than they did over 31/2 years ago — that’s just on energy alone. In total, families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Joe Biden took office. From groceries to gas, prices on everything are up over 20% while real average weekly wages are down 3.9%. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris continue to ignore the real harmful impacts of their failed anti-energy policies that are causing this inflation crisis.
House Republicans are working to combat these high prices. We passed legislation to unleash American energy production, reverse Biden’s anti-energy policies, and lower energy costs that continue to burden your family’s pocketbook.
If we are going to restore America’s energy dominance, we must have the workforce to do it — especially with so many good-paying jobs in the energy sector right here in North Carolina.
Religious freedom on campus
A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period.
“JEWISH STUDENTS were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith. This fact is so unimaginable and so abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom that it bears repeating.”
So wrote Judge Mark C. Scarsi in issuing a preliminary injunction this week to three Jewish students who sued UCLA after they were denied access to portions of the campus last spring.
“UCLA does not dispute this,” Scarsi continued. “Instead, UCLA claims that it has no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of its Jewish students because the exclusion was engineered by third-party protesters. But under constitutional principles, UCLA may not allow services to some students when UCLA knows that other students are excluded on religious grounds, regardless of who engineered the exclusion.”
UCLA is just plain wrong. It was responsible for protecting, and ensuring campus access, to all of the students. Instead, UCLA erected bike rack barriers around the encampment and allegedly hired security guards who allowed protesters to cross into the encampment, but not Zionists. “Are you a Zionist?” news accounts at the time reported that the protestors called out to those seeking passage. Protestors approached the students seeking to cross, leaving them no choice but to turn back.
That is why last year, I introduced the WORKER Act. My bill will supercharge America’s energy workforce by urging the Department of Energy to award grants to stakeholders prioritizing education and training for energy and manufacturing jobs. This legislation would also prioritize investments in improved education and training for underrepresented groups, including minorities, women and veterans, in energy-related jobs. These investments are key to support American workers, lower energy costs and increase energy independence.
The North Carolina Community College system is one of our state’s greatest assets, especially when it comes to workforce development. I was recently able to visit two of the great community colleges in our region and see firsthand how effective high-skilled workforce development programs can be for our community. These programs help ensure both young people and adults have the skills they need to get the jobs that are out there, which will boost productivity for businesses and lower costs while improving families’ quality of life.
In Congress, I will continue to support job-training and workforce development programs which open doors for folks in North Carolina and across the country.
Whether it’s lowering energy costs or strengthening our workforce, rest assured I will never stop fighting to ensure a more prosperous America for you and your family.
Richard Hudson represents the 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
What is as astounding as what happened at UCLA is that a debate has ensued, and continued in the court action, as to whether it was antisemitic.
According to newspaper reports, ProPalestinian students and faculty activists at UCLA, including a Faculty for Justice in Palestine group that filed a friend of the court brief in the injunction lawsuit, claimed that the protestors were antiZionist, but not against Jews, and that many protestors were Jewish.
Jews can be antisemites, too. The Jewish plaintiffs in this action, as the judge recognized, “assert that supporting the Jewish state of Israel is their sincerely held religious belief.” The fact that there were some Jews on the side of the protestors does not make their actions any less antisemitic, or abhorrent.
Did the students really need to bring a lawsuit to persuade UCLA to protect all of its Jewish students? Judging from UCLA’s reaction, apparently they did.
The university, through Mary Osako, vice chancellor of strategic communications, complained that “(t)he district court’s ruling would improperly hamstring our ability to respond to events on the ground and to meet the needs of the Bruin community. We’re closely reviewing the judge’s ruling and considering all our options moving forward.”
“Hamstring (their) ability to respond”? What does that mean? They can’t put up bike racks to keep out Jews? They
can’t just protect the protesting bigots while allowing them to target Jews who support the existence of the state of Israel?
UCLA was not the only university that lost sight of its own responsibilities and blinked at verbal and physical harassment. But it was one of the ugliest occupations. The result was that UCLA lost control of its campus when violent protestors moved onto campus to break up the encampment itself. Hatred breeds more violence. What did they expect?
University attorneys also argued that significant changes took place since the encampment last April that mitigated the students’ concerns. The changes included shutting down newer encampments on the same days they went up, creating a new office of campus safety, putting in place a new police chief and strictly enforcing UCLA rules, including rules that prohibit overnight camping. The court was not convinced that these made an injunction unnecessary. Understandably so, given the history. A new school year is beginning. There will be new challenges. The lesson of UCLA is clear. A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period. No student should ever be denied access to any part of campus because they believe in a Jewish state.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai
The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the divisive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Party at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shinawatra to hold the job, after her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties in the governing
Pinthongta
and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and lawmakers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dictate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after less than a year in office. The
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health authorities said Sunday. The African nation has been roiled by a 16-month conflict and devastating floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cases of cholera have been detected across the county in recent weeks.
Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tally since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said.
Cholera is a fast-developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering tensions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group ex-
ploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and other urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical facilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation, with famine already confirmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked
northern region of Darfur. Sudan’s conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and international rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have compounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to local authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major outbreak left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak be -
court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach for appointing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thailand’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push forward key policies such as economic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially mention Srettha’s signature proposal for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criticized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable economic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still intends to push forward a major economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
gan in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces.
He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detected cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now working with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to implement a vaccination campaign.
Sudan’s military-controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a government delegation to meet with American officials in Cairo amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a statement the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramilitary group to pull out from people’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
Barbara Sawyer Morrow
November 30, 1961 –August 17, 2024
Barbara Ann Sawyer Morrow, 62 of Asheboro passed away unexpectedly Saturday, August 17, 2024, at her home.
Barbara was born on November 30, 1961, in Randolph County to John and Maxine Sawyer. She attended Asheboro High School. Barbara worked in the hosiery industry where she was a knitter until becoming disabled.
Barbara was kindhearted and protective of her family. She was a very supportive mother and grandmother who defined unconditional love. She enjoyed life, family time and loved to make trips to the beach and mountains. Her grandchildren were most important. Hobbies included gardening, collecting gnomes, her wind chimes in the yard and online shopping. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Billy.
Left to cherish her memory are her spouse: Jeffrey Alan Riggs; sons Brandon Sawyer (Stephanie) and Michael Sawyer (Carly), both of Asheboro; daughters Ashley Sawyer (Jarred) of Kannapolis and Christy Hunt of Randleman; brother Johnny Sawyer (Sharon) and sister Janice Kennedy, both of Asheboro and nine grandchildren Cody, Triston, Tessa, Alexis, Preston, Caden, Whyatt, Ian and Lane.
A graveside memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Oaklawn Cemetery with Rev. Mark Beane officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 12 - 1:45 pm at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, North Carolina Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at st.jude.org
Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is proudly serving the family.
Wade Randall Murphy
May 30, 1953 –August 13, 2024
Wade Randall Murphy, born on May 30, 1953, in Hamilton, OH, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 13, 2024, at the age of 71.
Wade was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He is survived by his loving wife, Beth Murphy, with whom he shared 17 wonderful years living joyfully in the sunshine state of Florida. Wade was like a big teddy bear, always exhibiting warmth and love for his family. He cherished his beautiful wife Beth above all and loved his family dearly.
His surviving family includes his sisters, Lola Anderson and Tina Hartman, both residing in Ohio, along with his four step-children and sixteen grandchildren. Wade had the
Bertha Teague
July 1, 1939 –August 15, 2024
Bertha Mae Cotner Teague, 85, formerly of Grays Chapel, died Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Clapp’s Convalescent Nursing Home in Pleasant Garden. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m., Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Gray’s Chapel Methodist Church, where she was a member, with Pastor Perry Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Bertha was born on July 1, 1939, in Chatham County, the daughter of the late Raymond Cotner and Nancy Cotner. She was a graduate of Grays Chapel School. She retired from being a receptionist at the Asheboro Randolph YMCA.
In addition to her parents, Bertha was preceded in death by her husband, Owen Henry “Tim” Teague; and her brother, Pete Cotner.
She is survived by her sons, Raymond “R.P.” Teague (Caroline Staley) of Climax, Owen Teague (Michele) of Climax; sisters, Jody Hamlet (Joe) of Climax, Mary Lou Hill of Greensboro; brothers, Jimmy Cotner of Climax, William Cotner of Pleasant Garden; grandchildren, Ethan Teague of Climax, Timothy Teague (Ashley) of Randleman, Krystal Rook of Thomasville, Ashley Teague of Thomasville; greatgrandchildren, Owen, Logan, Carson, Oaklynn, Tyler, Elijah, Kaylee, Gage, Riley, Aubree, Nora, Maggie and Charlotte.
The family will receive friends from 12:30 - 1:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Clapps Pleasant Garden for the care and compassion shown to Bertha Mae during her time there.
special privilege of raising three of his granddaughters: Destiny, Bethany and Jasmine, who brought immense joy and helped keep him young over the years.
Wade had a deep passion for rock-n-roll music, often attending and working as security for numerous concerts around Cincinnati, Ohio. His love for collecting rock-n-roll and M&M character memorabilia was well known among his friends and family. Wade also spent a significant portion of his life in Los Angeles, working behind the scenes as a cameraman on several films and television shows, including ‘The Love Boat’ and ‘Dynasty’. During this time, he had the pleasure of meeting many celebrities such as Robin Williams, Louis Gossett and Diane Keaton, to name a few.
Preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Lee Murphy, Wade will be remembered for his humor and the way he could light up a room with his presence. Though he was a little rough around the edges, his funny and loving nature will be deeply missed by his many family members and friends.
A service of remembrance will be conducted by the family at a later date to honor Wade’s life and legacy.
Rest in peace, Wade. Your memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.
Virgie Pauline Pridgen Yow
September 10, 1933 — August 16, 2024
Virgie Pauline Pridgen Yow, 90, of Asheboro, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday at 6:04 p.m. at Asheboro Rehabilitation and Health Care Center surrounded by family and friends. She had been in declining health for the last few years. She worked as a seamstress for many years in the textile industry.
She loved her Lord and going to church. She was a member of Calvary Pentecostal Church; and in her later years, was a member of Patterson Grove Christian Church. She loved her children and grandchildren and visiting with her family and friends. She enjoyed listening to gospel music, coloring and spoiling her beloved dogs, Bobby and Precious. Mrs. Yow enjoyed cooking and working in her flowers and for many years she loved corresponding with The Publisher’s Clearing House in hopes of winning the “big prize”. She was often described by her family as a fighter, overcoming many obstacles in life.
Mrs. Yow was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Yow, son, Clifton (Cliff) Yow, father, William Pridgen, mother, Janie Stroud Pridgen, two sisters, Josephine Rush and Loraine Helper, one brother, Tommy Pridgen, and three grandchildren, Johnny Ray Henderson, Aubrey Henderson and Toney Henderson.
Mrs. Yow is survived by three daughters: Brenda Pierce (Ronald) of Asheboro, Vickie Batchelor (Terry) of Franklinville and Patsy McClintock of Asheboro as well as two sons, Larry Yow of Asheboro and Tommy Yow (Sheila) of Pleasant Garden. Daughter-in-Law Jennifer Yow Revard of Asheboro and grandchildren Micah, Brandon, Brian, Johnny, Chris, Tela, Ricky, Jeremiah, Gwen, Heather and Erica. Many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Yow is also survived by many nieces, nephews and special friends.
Funeral services for Mrs. Yow will be on Tuesday, August 20, at 2 p.m. at Patterson Grove Christian Church, 1921 Patterson Grove Road, Ramseur by Reverend Brian Pierce and Reverend Terry Batchelor. Burial will follow at the Richland Baptist Church Cemetery in Asheboro. Visitation will be Monday evening from 6 - 8:00 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, NC.
Special thanks to her many caregivers at Asheboro Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center and to the many at Hospice of Asheboro.
Yvonne “Bebe” Harris
August 7, 1941 –August 14, 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Yvonne “Bebe” Lewallen Harris, beloved wife, mother, nana, and greatnana, who peacefully departed this world after a short but aggressive battle with ovarian cancer on August 14, 2024, at the age of 83.
Bebe was born on August 7, 1941, in Asheboro, and spent her life dedicated to her family. She shared a remarkable 65 years of marriage with her husband, Earl Harris. Their enduring partnership was a testament to a life well-lived together, full of shared joys, challenges and countless cherished memories.
Bebe was a loving mother to her only daughter, Anna “Dee” Harris Lowe (Jimmy), in whom she felt immense pride. Bebe’s legacy extends to her three adoring grandchildren, Alyssa Plott (Read), Kerrin Cox (Brett), and Andrew Lowe (Madison), who lit up her life any time they were near or mentioned. In recent years, Bebe’s heart was overjoyed with the arrival of her three great-grandchildren, Millie Ruth Cox (4), James Samuel Plott (3), and Lana Merritt Cox (12 weeks old).
Bebe was not only dedicated to her family but also co-owned and operated a successful bridal store, Bride and Groom Formals, in downtown Asheboro with her sister, Lucy Lewallen Shirley. For over 21 years, the store served as a hub for fashion needs and meaningful conversation. Her keen eye for style and impeccable customer service helped many find their perfect prom, pageant, or wedding gown, fostering a legacy that impacted thousands of people and created milestone moments.
Throughout her life, Bebe was a pillar of strength for her family and a cherished friend to many. Her jovial spirit, warm smile and outgoing personality made new acquaintances feel like instant friends. She could lighten the mood with a single witty comment or silly face. Beyond fashion and always being “dressed to the nines,” she enjoyed all things Mickey Mouse, dogs and watching TV.
Bebe is survived by her husband, daughter, sister, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, her beloved yorkie, Sophie, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Noah M. and Myrtle M. Lewallen, and her brothers, Aaron M. Lewallen and Harvey Lee Lewallen. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 12:45 - 1:45 p.m. at Richland Baptist Church. A celebration of her life will follow immediately at 2 p.m. with the burial at West Bend Methodist Church Cemetery thereafter. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bebe’s memory to Randolph Hospice or the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank all of the dedicated nursing staff, both at Randolph Hospital and Hospice, for their exceptional care and support.
Bebe’s legacy of love and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. She lived a life full of impact and purpose, and her memory will continue to inspire and comfort her family and friends.
Robert Earl Taylor
June 3, 1936 — August 14, 2024
Robert Earl Taylor, 88, of Randleman passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born June 3, 1936, to Robert Russell Taylor and Daisey Agnes Pender Taylor in Burlington, NC. Robert will be remembered as a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He loved golfing, hunting and bowling — one time he bowled a perfect game. Robert was married to the love of his life, Wilma, for 58 years. A lifelong lawman, he was a State Trooper with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for 28 years, a US Marshall for 10, and part of the Retired Trooper Association. Among other organizations, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge 699 in Asheboro since 1965. Robert was a longtime member and former Deacon of the First Baptist Church in Randleman. He volunteered his time with the Baptist Men Relief and was a proud supporter of the Randolph Baptist Association. Robert is survived by his three sons, Danny Taylor of Randleman, Marty Taylor of Randleman, Steven Taylor (Gretchen Velazquez) of Oak Ridge; two grandchildren, Colin Taylor and Talia Taylor; a brother, Keith Taylor of Graham; a sister, Laura (Herman) Forbes. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Wilma, and sisters, Faye Alcon and Gail Taylor.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 600 S. Main St. Funeral services will follow Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Randleman with Reverend Kenneth Reaves officiating. Interment will be held at Randolph Memorial Park. Masonic Rites will be performed at the cemetery. Pugh Funeral Home is serving the Taylor family.
DEATH NOTICES
• Richard Keith Pugh, age 89, of Asheboro, passed away Monday, August 12, 2024, at his home.
• Ronald Lee “Porky” Cox, born on October 2, 1961, in Randolph County, passed away peacefully at the age of 62 on August 14, 2024, at Randolph Hospice House.
STATE & NATION
San Francisco goes after deepfake nude images of women, girls
The city filed a lawsuit that takes on AI
By Matt O’Brien and Haleluya Hadero
The Associated Press
NEARLY A YEAR after AI-generated nude images of high school girls upended a community in southern Spain, a juvenile court this summer sentenced 15 of their classmates to a year of probation.
But the artificial intelligence tool used to create the harmful deepfakes is still easily accessible on the internet, promising to “undress any photo” uploaded to the website within seconds.
Now a new effort to shut down the app and others like it is being pursued in California, where San Francisco this week filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit that experts say could set a precedent but will also face many hurdles.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe,” said David Chiu, the elected city attorney of San Francisco who brought the case against a group of widely visited websites tied to entities in California, New Mexico, Estonia, Serbia, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe.”
David Chiu, city attorney of San Francisco
which are unavailable in phone app stores but still easily found on the internet.
classmates that then circulate through social media.
In one of the first widely publicized cases last September in Almendralejo, Spain, a physician who helped bring it to the public’s attention after her daughter was among the victims said she is satisfied by the severity of the sentence their classmates are facing after a court decision earlier this summer.
But it is “not only the responsibility of society, of education, of parents and schools but also the responsibility of the digital giants that profit from all this garbage,” Dr. Miriam Al Adib Mendiri said in an interview Friday.
She applauded San Francisco’s action but said more efforts are needed, including from bigger companies like California-based Meta and its subsidiary WhatsApp, which was used to circulate the images in Spain.
While schools and law enforcement agencies have sought to punish those who make and share the deepfakes, authorities have struggled with what to do about the tools themselves.
“These images are used to bully, humiliate and threaten women and girls,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “And the impact on the victims has been devastating on their reputation, mental health, loss of autonomy and, in some instances, causing some to become suicidal.”
“There are a number of sites where we don’t know at this moment exactly who these operators are and where they’re operating from, but we have investigative tools and subpoena authority to dig into that,” Chiu said. “And we will certainly utilize our powers in the course of this litigation.”
The lawsuit brought on behalf of the people of California alleges that the services broke numerous state laws against fraudulent business practices, nonconsensual pornography and the sexual abuse of children. But it can be hard to determine who runs the apps,
Woman charged in plot to extort Elvis’ family, auction off Graceland
The Missouri woman posed as three people during the scheme
By Alanna Durkin Richer and Jonathan Mattise
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A
Missouri woman has been arrested on charges she orchestrated a brazen scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s family by trying to auction off his Graceland mansion and property before a judge halted the mysterious foreclosure sale, the Justice Department said Friday.
Lisa Jeanine Findley, 53, of Kimberling City, falsely claimed Presley’s daughter borrowed $3.8 million from a bogus private lender and had pledged Graceland as collateral for the loan before her death last year, prosecutors said. She then threatened to sell Graceland to the higher bidder if Presley’s family didn’t pay a $2.85 million settlement, according to authorities.
Many of the tools are being used to create realistic fakes that “nudify” photos of clothed adult women, including celebrities, without their consent. But they have also popped up in schools around the world, from Australia to Beverly Hills in California, typically with boys creating the images of female
and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportunity to prey on the name and financial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate, attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her personal gain,” said Eric Shen, inspector in charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group.
An attorney for Findley, who used multiple aliases, was not listed in court documents. A voicemail left with a phone number believed to be associated with Findley was not immediately returned, nor was an email sent to an address prosecutors say she had used in the scheme.
She’s charged with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The mail fraud charge carries up to 20 years in prison.
She remained in custody after a brief federal court appearance in Missouri, according to court papers.
Organizations that have been tracking the growth of AI-generated child sexual abuse material will be closely following the San Francisco case.
The lawsuit “has the potential to set legal precedent in this area,” said Emily Slifer, the director of policy at Thorn, an organization that works to combat the sexual exploitation of children.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family.”
Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspection Service
Experts were baffled by the attempt to sell off one of the most storied pieces of real estate in the country using names, emails and documents that were quickly suspected to be phony.
Finley posed as three different people allegedly involved with the fake lender, fabricated loan documents, and published a fraudulent foreclosure notice in a Memphis newspaper announcing the auction of Graceland in May, prosecutors said. A judge stopped the sale after Presley’s granddaughter sued.
Graceland opened as a museum and tourist attraction in 1982 and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A large Presley-themed entertainment complex across the street from the museum is owned by Elvis Presley Enterprises. The announcement of charges came on the 47th anniversary of Presley’s death at the age of 42.
In May, a public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13-acre estate said Promenade Trust, which controls the Graceland museum, owes $3.8 million after failing to repay a 2018 loan. Riley Keough, Presley’s granddaughter and an actor, inherited the trust and ownership of the home after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, last year. An attorney for Keough didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on Friday.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public
Keough filed a lawsuit claiming fraud, and a judge halted the proposed auction with an
injunction. Naussany Investments and Private Lending — the bogus lender authorities now say Findley created — said Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for the loan, according to the foreclosure sale notice. Keough’s lawsuit alleged that Naussany presented fraudulent documents regarding the loan in September 2023 and that Lisa Maria Presley never borrowed money from Naussany. Kimberly Philbrick, the notary whose name is listed on Naussany’s documents, indicated she never met Lisa Marie Presley nor notarized any documents for her, according to the estate’s lawsuit. The judge said the notary’s affidavit brings into question “the authenticity of the signature.”
The judge in May halted the foreclosure sale of the beloved Memphis tourist attraction, saying Elvis Presley’s estate could be successful in arguing that a company’s attempt to auction Graceland was fraudulent.
GABRIELLE LURIE / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE VIA AP
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu speaks at a public safety town hall meeting in San Francisco last September.
MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO
A Missouri woman has been arrested after being accused of orchestrating an extortion plot involving Graceland and Elvis Presley’s heir.
RandolpH SPORTS
Ready to kick off another season
Randolph County teams hope for more early success this year
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
ANOTHER SEASON of high school football begins Friday night with Randolph County teams set for a variety of nonconference games.
In each case, these are rematches from last year’s openers. In those games, Randolph County teams went a combined 52.
Looking for more early success won’t come easy, though only three of the teams have road assignments.
All games are scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
Here’s an overview of the matchups: Randleman at Thomasville
This could be one of the premier matchups in the region for the opening week.
Randleman topped Thomasville 20 9 in last year’s opener in the first meeting between the teams in seven years.
Randleman posted a 10 2 record last year for its first 10 w in season since 2019.
Thomasville will be under the direction of firstyear coach Bradley George. He took over after Kevin Gillespie retired in late May, completing a fourseason stint with the Bulldogs.
Thomasville, a Class 1A team, has gone 29 9 across the past
Southwestern Randolph selects second class for Sports Hall of Fame
Former girls’ basketball standouts are among the inductees
Randolph Record
ASHEBORO — There will be six inductees for the second class of the Southwestern Randolph Sports Hall of Fame.
The group of Kaila CravenBrandenburg, Lauren LaPlant, Randy Miller, Michael Wade Osborne, Donald Strider and Melissia Rogers Sutton comprise the induction class.
The ceremony is set for Aug. 30. That night the inductees will be honored at halftime of the school’s football game against North Moore.
This is the second class for the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. There were 14 inductees in the inaugural class last September.
Here’s at look at this year’s inductees:
• CravenBrandenburg had a distinguished girls’ basketball career, racking up 2,376 points. For three seasons, she was named the top player in Randolph County. Her career
scoring average is listed at 24.9 points per game.
She played collegiately at Appalachian State.
• LaPlant’s impact came in basketball, volleyball and track and field. As a senior, she was selected as the MidPiedmont Conference Female’s Athlete of the Year.
She was a member of the Cougars’ 252 team as a junior in 2014 15. She recorded 1,940 career points in high school. She played basketball at Western Carolina.
• Miller was a teacher at the school for 30 years, coaching during many of those years and supporting in numerous ways.
He served as head coach for the football and wrestling programs, and he also had a coaching role with junior varsity softball. He was an assistant football coach for 13 years.
He also provided labor for projects such as the building of a concession stand at the stadium, softball dugouts, a backstop for the baseball field and the football field house.
• Osborne spent 26 years as a coach at Southwestern Ran
three seasons, including 9 4 a year ago. Randleman has won four of the past five matchups with the Bulldogs.
Western Guilford at Southwestern Randolph
Southwestern Randolph has had three consecutive winning seasons. Hoping to achieve more success, the early part of the season is bound to be crucial, particularly with three of the first four games at home.
The Cougars opened last season by winning 29 18 at Western Guilford, which went on to a 2 8 season.
This will be only the sixth meeting between the teams. They split four outcomes from 2013 16
dolph in a variety of capacities.
At one time or another, he was head coach for football, crosscountry, track and field, and softball. He also spent 15 years as an assistant football coach.
Under Osborne, his boys’ track and field teams had winning percentages of 78%.
• Rogers Sutton won three individual state championships in track and field. She also ran for an undefeated crosscountry team and played girls’ basketball.
As a senior, she was named the top female athlete at the school. She has track and field school records that have held up for 38 years.
Her state championships came in the high jump as a senior and in the 400 meters and high jump as a senior.
Later, she competed in track and field at Appalachian State before becoming a teacher. She has been involved in running club activities in WinstonSalem.
• Strider, who has lived across the road from the high school since it opened in 1971, has been recognized as one of the school’s top supporters. He helped with many projects, including the creation of the baseball field. He was a longtime president of the athletics booster club
He remains a loyal supporter of Southwestern Randolph teams and continues to assist with some projects.
East Davidson at Providence Grove
Providence Grove could be at a crossroads after five consecutive winning seasons. The Patriots had a coaching change in early August.
Veteran assistant coach Mark Heilig has taken over after the departure of David Hayes, who coached the team for one season and left just a couple of days after the official start of practice this month.
The Patriots went 65 last year, a record that included a seasonopening 24 7 v ictory at East Davidson. Providence Grove lost four of its final five games.
East Davidson ended up 4 7 last year.
Providence Grove leads the series 7 4, including five vic
tories in a row. Friday night’s game will mark the 11th consecutive August (with the exception of 2020 when the pandemic nixed play until the following spring) that these teams meet. Starmount at Trinity
Starmount won last year 4330, spoiling the Bulldogs debut of coach Bear Bradley.
Trinity had a 5 6 season last year. The 30 points scored against Starmount marked the secondhighest total of the season for the Bulldogs. Trinity needs to bolster its defense after giving up more than 40 points in four games in 2023. Starmount was 10 2 last year for its first double digit win total since 2014.
West Davidson at Wheatmore
Wheatmore begins the sea
Basketball changes come for Providence Grove teams
team. He recently concluded his first season as baseball coach at the school.
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
Johnathan Gainey has left the Patriots after one season as girls’ basketball coach. He has been hired to coach girls’ basketball at West Forsyth. Both Providence Grove teams will have their third coach in as many seasons.
Brett Andrews spent one season as Providence Grove’s
been
NEAL ROBBINS / RANDOLPH RECORD
Coach Seth Baxter of Southwestern Randolph will have his team at home this week to begin the football season.
RANDOLPH RECORD
Baseball coach Shane Worth is adding basketball coaching to his duties at Providence Grove.
The school’s baseball coach will add coaching duties in the winter season
HOME PLATE MOTORS
Sawyer St. Clair
Sawyer St. Clair reacts during a game last week for Wheatmore’s boys’ soccer team.
St. Clair, a senior midfielder, helped the Warriors during a productive first week of the season. The team scored a total of 13 goals in two games, with Wheatmore going 1-1 in those games.
St. Clair, a senior captain, provided a goal and an assist in a 10-1 whipping of visiting North Stanly.
The Warriors lost only one game in 2022, but they’re trying to rebound from last year’s four-win season.
Wheatmore and other Piedmont Athletic Conference teams have a steady diet of nonconference games before league play kicks into gear in mid-September.
CHANGES from page B1
boys’ coach. The Patriots were 718 for the season year in a row after winning the Piedmont Athletic Conference regular season in 202122.
Andrews has left Providence Grove to take a position at Trinity, where a vacancy opened for boys’ basketball coach. Worth will remain as baseball coach at Providence Grove.
On the girls’ side, Gainey directed the Patriots to a 15 12 record. They were in third place in the PAC.
Before joining Providence Grove’s athletic department last year, Worth had been baseball coach and girls’ basketball coach at South Stokes. Worth spent 10 years at South Stokes before resigning in the spring of 2023. He was the girls’ coach for two seasons.
Asheboro splits in soccer trip
UCA got off to a strong start to the volleyball season
Randolph Record
R ANDOLPH County teams had encouraging moments among their results in the first week of competition for the new school year.
BOYS’ SOCCER
• Asheboro went to Wilmington and split a pair of games. First came a 6 2 loss to Wilmington Hoggard.
Then the Blue Comets edged Wilmington Ashley 1 0 on Juan Uscanga’s goal off Cam Letterlough’s assists.
• Wheatmore had some highscoring adventures to begin the season.
A 4 3 loss to visiting East Davidson was followed by a drubbing of visiting North Stanly 10 1 behind three goals from Jaylen Aquillina and two goals from Carter Queen.
• Providence Grove secured a 3 2 v ictory against visiting Southeast Guilford.
VOLLEYBALL
Uwharrie Charter Academy won its first four matches of the season. That included a home sweep of Chatham Charter and a road sweep at North Davidson before two victories in an invitational at Rock Hill, S.C.
• Southwestern Randolph had some long matches with mixed outcomes.
It began with a five set home loss to Oak Grove, falling 14 25, 2125, 25 16, 2725, 15 11.
Gracie Hodgin notched 22 kills and Maddie Baker supplied 29 assists for Southwestern Randolph. Then in neutralsite competition, the Cougars had varied results.
Southwestern Randolph fell in four sets to West Forsyth and dropped a five set decision to Carrboro. The Cougars managed to top tournament host East Chapel Hill in four sets.
• Wheatmore, under firstyear coach Michelle Hinson, lost its opener at Chatham Central and then fell at Asheboro before defeating visiting East Davidson.
GIRLS’ TENNIS
Asheboro posted early success, winning matches against Ragsdale and Western Guilford.
The slugger played in and around the High Point area during his youth years
The Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — Just in case Weston Wilson needed a reminder on the hit he needed to complete the cycle — Phillies fans chanted “Double! Double!” for his atbat as a noisy cue — Bryce Harper offered a helpful tip.
“Harper was at the top (step) letting me know,” Wilson said, laughing. “If you hit it, keep running. Don’t stop until second.”
With the Phillies ahead in a rout against the Washington Nationals, Wilson lined a shot to right field that was nearly caught by right fielder Alex Call. He fell short on a diving attempt, the ball smacked off his glove and rolled toward center, giving Wilson the opening he needed to take up Harper on his advice.
Wilson, a former Wesleyan Christian player from High Point, hustled to second base, becoming the first rookie to hit for the cycle in Philadelphia history.
Wilson’s teammates went wild in the dugout and slapped the railing — former player John Kruk gave him a standing ovation from his spot in the stands where he called the game — and fans that stuck around in a 133 v ictory last Thursday night were rewarded as witnesses to a slice of history.
“I thought it was more in the gap,” Wilson said. “I saw him closing in and I was like, ‘You’ve got to be kidding.’ I saw it trickle out and, fortunately, he didn’t catch it.”
With his pregnant wife cheering him on from the stands — they are expecting a boy on Sept. 1 — Wilson tripled and singled in the fourth; homered in the seventh and became the ninth Phillies player to hit for the cycle.
Wilson had the 10th cycle in Phillies history — Chuck Klein did it twice — and became the first home player to accomplish the feat at Citizens Bank Park
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son with a new coach as Jacob Sheffield has replaced Philip Yarbrough.
The Warriors thumped host West Davidson 337 last season on the way to a 28 season.
Johnathan Kelly scored three touchdowns in that game and he’s back for his senior season.
West Davidson was winless last year and carries a 16 game losing streak into the season.
The teams have played regularly since 2009 (with the exception of the reconfigured 2020 season). The series is tied 77
Eastern Randolph at Eastern Alamance
This is the fourth year in a row that these teams clash in a non conference game.
since David Bell in 2004. He was the first Phillies player to hit for the cycle since catcher J.T. Realmuto in 2023.
Batting eighth in the lineup, Wilson joined a full cycle club in the big leagues already this season: Texas Rangers outfielder Wyatt Langford, Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez and Miami Marlins infielder Xavier Edwards all accomplished the feat. The 29 yearold Wilson started in left field against Nationals lefty Mitchell Parker, a sign that manager Rob Thomson is comfortable giving the outfielder more atbats against lefties than outfielder Brandon Marsh.
With more games like this one, Wilson should earn plenty of playing time for the NL East leaders.
“He can run the bases, he can steal a base. He’s got a lot of qualities,” Thomson said.
One of them, delivering in the big moment, especially against Washington.
Wilson, who competed for Clemson in college, played 706 games in the minors before he was called up last season and homered in his first bigleague atbat — against the Nationals. He was upstaged by Michael Lorenzen’s nohitter in the pitcher’s first start at home for the Phillies.
Even in a game where Alec Bohm and Nick Castellanos
Eastern Alamance, a Class 3A team, has won the past two meetings, including 3515 last year in Ramseur. The Wildcats recovered from that result to win their next 12 games.
Eastern Randolph is 335 across the past three years, suffering its only regularseason losses to the Eagles.
Eastern Randolph’s Burton Cates is beginning his 40th year as a head coach, mostly with the Wildcats. He’s the active wins leader in the state with 367.
Eastern Alamance’s Mitch Mitchener will make his coaching debut. The Western Alamance alumnus was hired to replace John Kirby, who retired after 32plus seasons in charge of the Eagles.
Senior running back Tyrek Samuel of Eastern Alamance has scored a total of eight touch
went deep, no one stole Wilson’s spotlight. MLB, though, is taking his cleats, his bats, just about all the gear except Wilson’s batting gloves.
“I don’t know what they’re doing with it.” he said. “I’m going to have to figure it out.”
Wilson, selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 17th round of the 2016 draft, did sneak a few extra bases because of Washington’s defense. Wilson hit his first bigleague triple when he crushed one off the right field wall and the ball rolled so far past Call that it was retrieved by the second baseman.
“I kind of had a trip up around second base and almost ate it a little bit,” Wilson said. “I didn’t see the ball coming back toward me because of the videoboard. I thought he was right on the ball. I was taking a direct line to second base. As I was further out, I saw him coming out for the ball and that’s when I took off.”
Wilson started the season in TripleA and hasn’t played much since he was called up in July for a second time this season. He was batting .273 with two homers and six RBIs in 15 games. He’s batting .414 (12 for 29) across his last eight starts since he was recalled July 12 from Lehigh Valley.
“I’m just trying to put good atbats together whenever I get the chance,” he said.
downs against the Wildcats in the past two seasons combined. Asheboro at Albemarle
Asheboro is looking for a season opening victory for the third time in four seasons. Last year, the Blue Comets won 24 22 at home against Albemarle to start the season.
The Class 3A team didn’t win another game. Albemarle, a Class 1A team, went on to a 6 6 record. This is Calvin Brown’s second season as Asheboro’s coach. The Blue Comets have finished with one victory in each of the past three seasons. For Albemarle, this is the first of three meetings against teams from Randolph County across the first five weeks of the season.
RANDOLPH RECORD
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Weston Wilson of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after hitting for the cycle.
FOOTBALL
pen & paper pursuits
this week in history
Krakatoa erupts, MLK delivers “I Have a Dream” speech, Andrew devastates Florida
The Associated Press
“THIS WEEK” looks back at the key events from this week in history.
AUG. 22
1851: The schooner “America” outraced more than a dozen British vessels off the English coast to win a trophy that would later become the America’s Cup.
1910: Japan annexed Korea, which remained under Japanese control until the end of World War II.
1965: A 14 minute brawl ensued between the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers after Giants pitcher Juan Marichal struck Dodgers catcher John Roseboro in the head with a baseball bat.
AUG. 23
1305: Scottish rebel leader Sir William Wallace was executed by the English for treason.
1775: Britain’s King George III proclaimed the American colonies to be in a state of “open and avowed rebellion.”
1914: Japan declared war against Germany in World War I.
1927: Italianborn anarchists Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were executed in Boston for the murders of two men during a 1920 robbery.
1970: The Salad Bowl strike began, organized by farm labor leader Cesar Chavez. Between 5,000 and 10,000 laborers left the job, leading to the largest farm worker strike in U.S. history.
Hurricane Andrew smashed into Florida, causing 65 deaths and more than $26 billion in damage on Aug.
AUG. 24
1814: During the War of 1812, British forces invaded Washington, D.C., setting fire to the stillunderconstruction Capitol and the White House, as well as other public buildings.
1932: Amelia Earhart embarked on a 19 hour flight from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey, making her the first woman to fly solo, nonstop, from coast to coast.
1954: President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Communist Control Act, outlawing the Communist Party in the United States.
1992: Hurricane Andrew smashed into Florida; the storm resulted in 65 deaths and caused more than $26 billion in damage across Florida, Louisiana and the Bahamas.
AUG. 25
1875: Capt. Matthew Webb became the first to swim across the English Channel from Do
ver, England, to Calais, France.
1944: During World War II, Paris was liberated by Allied forces after four years of Nazi occupation.
2018: Sen. John McCain of Arizona died at the age of 81.
AUG. 26
55 B.C.: Roman forces under Julius Caesar invaded Britain with limited success.
1910: Thomas Edison demonstrated to reporters an improved version of his Kinetophone, a device for showing a movie with synchronized sound.
1939: The first televised major league baseball games were shown on experimental station W2XBS: a doubleheader between the Cincinnati Reds and the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field.
1944: French Gen. Charles de Gaulle braved the threat of German snipers as he led a victory march in Paris, which the Allies had just liberated from Nazi occupation.
AUG. 27
1883: The island volcano Krakatoa erupted with cataclysmic explosions; the resulting tidal waves in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait killed some 36,000 people in Java and Sumatra.
AUG. 28
1922: The first radio commercial aired on station WEAF in New York City. The 10 minute advertisement was for the Queensboro Realty Co.
1963: More than 200,000 people listened as the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
SAL VEDER / AP PHOTO
Farm labor leader Cesar Chavez initiated the Salad Bowl strike on Aug. 23, 1970, the largest farm worker strike in U.S. history.
RAY FAIRAL / AP PHOTO
24,
Kat Tang’s debut novel imagines a stranger for hire
What would it be like to be to inhabit whatever role someone paid you by the hour to be?
By Donna Edwards
The Associated Press
AS OUR LIVES become more automated, increasingly niche jobs materialize to fill the gaps. Ours is a society where people hire celebrities to make birthday videos or pay “job leaving agents” in hopes of a more frictionless quitting experience. What would it be like to be that stranger for hire, to inhabit whatever role someone paid you by the hour to be?
Kat Tang’s debut novel, “FiveStar Stranger,” follows one man on a monthslong spiral as he realizes he’s getting attached to his clients — a violation of his first rule for himself as a rental stranger — forcing him to confront his past and examine why he got into the business in the first place.
Tang never reveals the Stranger’s real name — one of the many ways he becomes a
blank slate onto which others can project what they want.
He’s a selfdescribed attractive man whose Japanese American heritage means he can easily codeswitch between white and Asian depending on his client’s needs. His apartment is full of wigs and outfits for different personalities and occasions, and he can use makeup to age himself up or down. If this still needs to give you identity crisis vibes, he also takes accents, mannerisms and stories from clients that he can later whip out for another gig.
His evening client just wants to hear stories for an hour — so he regurgitates the stories his afternoon client told him nonstop, even adopting the original teller’s voice.
The juxtaposition shows how insidious isolation has crept into our hyperconnected psyche and how loneliness might have been solved genuinely and for free had they just met the right kind of person — or anyone at all. But why risk rejection when you can hire someone instead?
The Stranger notes, “Like ev
erything else in this intensely connected yet deeply lonely life, there was an app for that.”
The narration often dips into philosophy before yanking back to the safety of lighthearted and funny, a whiplash between deep interrogations of society and the Stranger’s humorous deflection to avoid getting too lost.
Tang makes it easy to become engrossed in the characters. Even the brief encounters are made interesting by the psychoanalytical lens through which the Stranger sees them. It’s an intelligent book, and it must tackle such a topic in a thoughtful and thoughtprovoking way without digging itself into an existential hole.
“FiveStar Stranger” starts bright, hopeful and funny. By the end, it’s a tangled, gloomy mess that’s strangely still hopeful, with the protagonist emptied out but not empty.
With its fantastic premise, great descriptions and incredible attention to emotion and relationships, “FiveStar Stranger” is a strong debut, and Tang is an author to watch.
Foster the People delight, frighten with ‘Paradise State of Mind’
It’s been seven years since 2017’s “Sacred Hearts Club”
By Mark Kennedy
The Associated Press
WHEN YOU PUT on Foster the People’s new album and you’re happily bopping along to the infectious funk disco beat of the first track, you might hardly notice the growing sense of dread in the lyrics, as dark as the music is sillylight. Welcome back, Mark Foster.
“My friends were going out last night and I still haven’t heard from them,” he sings in “See You in the Afterlife,” a tune that has scary newspaper headlines, an empty Colosseum and even a reference to the war in Ukraine. “It’s like we’ve all been hypnotized.”
It’s been seven years since the 2017 album “Sacred Hearts Club,” and Foster and his bandmates haven’t lost a step, making thoughtful, firstrate pop for a jangled, insecure era with the 11track “Paradise State of Mind,” the majority written
“Paradise State of Mind” by Foster the
with Isom Innis and with Foster producing the lion’s share for the first time.
Like the last collection, Foster the People has glistening pop beside complex tuners, with many of the songs eventually dipping into experimental territory or heavy distortion, like the unconventional flute solo on “Sometimes I Wanna Be Bad” and the hardto love “Glitchzig,” which goes through a half dozen time signatures, shrieking trum
Wahlberg, Berry lead middling spy comedy
“The Union” never quite hits its stride tonally
By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press
“THE UNION,” an action comedy with Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, should have been more fun. Or more exciting. It certainly had a lot working in its favor, including big stars and a budget for globetrotting.
However, it lacks a certain charm that could make it something more than the Netflix movie playing in the background.
“The Union,” released Friday, is a very male fairy tale about a middleaged everyman (Wahlberg) whose life never quite got started and who gets recruited to be a spy out of the blue. Mike is a broke construction worker still living in his hometown of Patterson, New Jersey, (yes, there are Springsteen songs) with his mother, hanging with his old friends in bars. His biggest win
of late was a onenight stand with his seventhgrade English teacher, and the one event on his calendar is his friend’s wedding in a few weeks, where he’s the best man.
That’s all to say that for Mike, it is a breath of fresh air when his old high school girlfriend Roxanne (Berry) walks into the bar one evening looking like a punk rock superhero. Glamorous and confident, she has clearly found a life outside of Patterson. The problem, or a problem, is that we already know what she does. Instead of putting the audience in Mike’s shoes, as the fish out of water trying to figure out why he’s woken up in a luxury suite in London after meeting his high school ex in his hometown bar, “The Union” starts on Roxanne. It begins with a kind of “Mission: Impossible”style extraction gone wrong in Trieste, Italy, where most of her team dies.
The idea came from Stephen Levinson, Wahlberg’s longtime business partner, who helped
pet and elements of antiseptic Kraftwerk. Highlights include “Lost in Space,” filled with a falsetto chorus and hand claps, which sounds like it was designed for a roller rink in the ’70s — with unsteady lyrics like “I let the darkness in to teach me” — and “Let Go,” which starts like a dreamy blast of positive vibes until the last third, when what can only be described as heavenly robots hijack the song, singing, “To be broken is to be set free.”
The heavily distorted, syntheticsounding “Feed Me” is like a sexy come on in the digital era — “I want to hack your code and be your antihero/ Turn you on and let my one activate your zero” — while Foster reveals perhaps his motivation for all this wonderful, creepy weirdness on the last song, “A Diamond to be Born.”
“I look at myself through a broken lens,” he sings in the song, so spacey that it’s almost a prayer. “Try my best to keep from unraveling.” You and us both, brother. Along the way, he’s given us another diamond.
bring another middleoftheroad Netflix actioncomedy to life in “Spenser Confidential.” It was directed very basically by Julian Farino, a journeyman director who helmed many episodes of “Entourage,” and written by Joe Barton and David Guggenheim. And there is a charming fantasy about the notion that anyone could be an international spy given the opportunity and a few weeks of training. In the movies, women get to find out they’re secret royalty, and men get to find out they’re secretly great spies.
“The Union” never quite hits its stride tonally. It’s not silly enough to be a comedy, but it would prefer to be that way. J.K. Simmons is given too little to work with as the head of this secret agency, which also employs underwritten characters played by Jackie Earle Haley, Adewale AkinnuoyeAgbaje and Alice Lee. One of the more moderately successful running jokes is that Mike’s undercover character is from Boston (get it?). A hulking English henchman even has a hearttoheart with him about “Good Will Hunting.” Berry and Wahlberg are fine together, with an easy rapport but zero chemistry. This would not be a problem if the movie wasn’t also trying to be a willtheywon’tthey romance between a woman who forgot her roots and a guy who needs to.
ATLANTIC RECORDS VIA AP
People dropped on Aug. 16.
famous birthdays this week
Tom Skerrit turns 90, Macaulay Culkin hits 43, Dave Chappelle is 51
The Associated Press
Aug. 22: Newsman Morton Dean is 89. TV writer/producer David Chase (“The Sopranos”) is 79. Correspondent Steve Kroft (“60 Minutes”) is 79. Guitarist David Marks of The Beach Boys is 76. Singer Roland Orzabal of Tears for Fears is 63. Singer Tori Amos is 61. Comedian Kristen Wiig (“Bridesmaids,” ″Saturday Night Live”) is 51. Aug. 23: Actor Vera Miles is 94. Actor Barbara Eden is 93. Actor Richard Sanders (“WKRP In Cincinnati”) is 84. Country singer Rex Allen Jr. is 77. Singer Linda Thompson is 77. Actor Shelley Long is 75. Singer Julian Casablancas of The Strokes is 46. Aug. 24: Guitarist Mason Williams is 86. Singer Marshall Thompson of The ChiLites is 82. Actor Ann Archer is 77. Actor Steve Guttenberg is 66. Talk show host Craig Kilborn is 62. Actor Marlee Matlin is 59. Actor comedian Dave Chappelle is 51.
Aug. 25: Actor Tom Skerritt is 90. Bassist Gene Simmons of Kiss is 69. Musician Elvis Costello is 69. Director Tim Burton is 65. Country singeractor Billy Ray Cyrus is 62. Singer Jeff Tweedy of Wilco is 56. Model Claudia Schiffer is 53.
Aug. 26: Singer Valerie Simpson of Ashford and Simpson is 78. “60 Minutes” correspondent Bill Whitaker is 72. Bandleader Branford Marsalis is 63. Actor Macaulay Culkin is 43. Aug. 27: Actor Tommy Sands is 86. Actor Tuesday Weld is 80. Actor Marianne Sagebrecht is 78. Guitarist Alex Lifeson of Rush is 70. Actress Diana Scarwid (“Mommie Dearest”) is 68.
Aug. 28: Actor Sonny Shroyer (“The Dukes of Hazzard,” “Enos”) is 88. Singer Wayne Osmond of The Osmonds is 72. Actor Daniel Stern is 66. Actor Jennifer Coolidge is 62. Country singer Shania Twain is 58. Actorsinger Jack Black is 54. Actor Jason Priestley (“Beverly Hills, 90210″) is 54. Country singer LeAnn Rimes is 41.
JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO Macaulay Culkin, pictured at the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023, turns 43 on Monday.
KATY WINN / AP PHOTO Bassist Gene Simmons of Kiss turns 69 on Sunday.
SCOTT A GARFITT / AP PHOTO Supermodel Claudia Schiffer, pictured this year, turns 53 on Sunday.
EVAN AGOSTINI / AP PHOTO Comedian Dave Chappelle turned 51 on Thursday.
the stream
“Reasonable Doubt” will stream this week.
Sabrina Carpenter gets cheeky, ‘Furiosa’ fights, Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon’ spins
his
The Associated Press
THIS WEEK’S new streaming entertainment releases include albums from Lainey Wilson and Sabrina Carpenter, George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” on the small screen, and Kevin Costner’s Western “Horizon: An American Saga” comes to Max.
Also streaming this week: The acclaimed series “Pachinko” returns to Apple TV+ for its eightepisode second season, and John Woo revisits one of his classic films in “The Killer,” a remake of his 1989 Hong Kongset action movie.
MOVIES TO STREAM
George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” streaming now on Max, may have struggled to match the dizzying heights of 2015’s “Fury Road.” However, the film features extraordinary action sequences, a grand fleet of dystopian vehicles, and one of Chris Hemsworth’s best performances. Anya TaylorJoy stars as young Furiosa, taking over the role played earlier by Charlize Theron. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented that “Miller is trying to add operatic heft and seriousness to what started in 1979 as a fun, riproaring smear of nightmarish, postapocalyptic motor oil.”
After a bumpy run in theaters, Kevin Costner’s Western “Horizon: An American Saga” lands on Max Friday. Costner’s threehour epic, the first of what Costner had hoped would be a fourfilm series, didn’t win over a lot of critics nor light up the box office ($29 million domestically) despite Costner’s passionate belief in the project. (He put up millions of dollars in his own money for its $100 millionplus budget.) A release date for the alreadycompleted part two was also postponed. An ensemble cast is led by Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone and Costner.
In Tina Mabry’s “The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat” (streaming Friday on Hulu), Aunjanue EllisTaylor, Sanaa Lathan and Uzo Aduba star as a trio of Indiana lifelong friends who have named themselves after the Motown trio. Adapted from Edward Kelsey Moore’s 2013 book by Mabry and Gina PrinceBythewood (who’s credited under the pseudonym Cee Marcellus), “The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat” chronicles an abiding sisterhood through ups and downs.
John Woo revisits one of his classic films in “The Killer” (streaming Friday on Peacock),
a remake of his 1989 Hong Kongset action movie. Nathalie Emmanuel (“Game of Thrones”) stars as an assassin trailed by a detective (Omar Sy) in Europe. A remake of “The Killer” has been in the works since the early ’90s, with a wide gamut of filmmakers and stars (from Denzel Washington to Lupita Nyong’o) who have been attached over the years. In the end, Woo, 77, decided to remake it himself.
MUSIC TO STREAM
For many, Sabrina Carpenter is a newcomer in pop music, having entered like a wrecking ball with her 2024 song of the summer, “Espresso,” and the dreamy, twangy, Jack Antonoffproduced followup single, “Please, Please, Please.” But it will mark her sixth album when “Short N’ Sweet,” her latest fulllength project, releases on Friday. Sometimes it takes nearly a decade to succeed overnight. Her last album, 2022’s “Emails I Can’t Send,” was her first since leaving Disney’s Hollywood Records, a mature take
on the pop she’s long had a penchant for; it also served as an introduction to her brand of cheeky, Rrated humor, like in the R&B swagger of “Nonsense.”
Lainey Wilson began her career more or less in high school, working as a Hannah Montana impersonator. Then came a few rough years trying to make it in Nashville — in fact, she released her debut album exactly 10 years ago. The bumpy ride has paid off, and on Friday, she’ll release her fifth studio album, “Whirlwind.” Let it be a lesson that there’s a real reward for talented people who don’t give up. These days, she’s a Grammy winner, the first woman to win Entertainer of the Year at the CMAs since Taylor Swift in 2011, and in June, she was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. Talk about a “Whirlwind.” Her new album deals with the wild ride of life, love and heartbreak, taking Wilson’s specific experiences and making them universal.
Also, on Friday, country star Thomas Rhett will release a new album, “About A Woman.” Laid
back as ever, the songs here are classic Rhett. They’re also love letters. “Gone Country” pulls from hiphop production, as is a trend in contemporary country; “After All The Bars Are Closed” and “Overdrive” are all romance. These songs are “About A Woman,” indeed. It has been 24 years since the Softies — the minimalist indiepop duo of Rose Melberg (also of Tiger Trap, Gaze, Go Sailor) and Jen Sbragia (Pretty Face) — have released a new album. In that time, generations of music obsessives had learned and loved their back catalog and worked to understand their powers. How can two electric guitars and sugarr ush harmonies hit with such humanity? But a magician never reveals her tricks, and in the case of “The Bed I Made,” the Softies’ forthcoming album, there’s more magic to experience.
SHOWS TO STREAM
Sabrina Carpenter’s sixth album, “Short N’ Sweet,” drops Friday.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
The protagonist of Black Myth, Wukong, is a monkey, but he’s evolved a long way from Donkey Kong. Indeed, he’s the “Destined One,” rocking a sweet suit of armor and a magical staff. Chinese developer Game Science promises a blend of challenging combat, roleplaying mechanics and an epic story based on the classic “Journey to the West.” The trek begins on PlayStation 5 and PC.
“Reasonable Doubt” debuts its second season on Hulu. The series has an allblack writers room and has been praised for reflecting a true black experience. Emayatzy Corinealdi plays Jax Stewart, a defense attorney who often colors outside the lines regarding legal ethics. Morris Chestnut joins the show for season two. The acclaimed series “Pachinko” returns to Apple TV+ for its eightepisode second season on Friday. Based on a 2017 novel by Min Jin Lee, “Pachinko” is about four generations of an immigrant Korean family that moved to Japan before World War II.
John Woo revisits
classic action film in “The Killer”
“The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat, left, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” center, and the series
HOKE
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Woman accused of aiding escaped prisoner appears in court
The woman accused of helping an escaped prisoner in North Carolina evade police appeared in court for the first time since her arrest. Jacobia Crisp was charged with aiding and abetting a fugitive and harboring an escapee. She could face more than five years in prison if she is convicted of both charges. Law enforcement says Crisp helped 30-year-old Ramone Alston elude police for multiple days after he escaped from a transport van in Hillsborough. He was later captured in Kannapolis at a hotel on Friday.
New school buses coming to N.C.
NCDMV is showcasing new school buses equipped with new technologies, including safety features, purchased using funds appropriated last year. The agency is using the new technologies and initiatives as part of school bus driver training for 2024. Earlier this year, the state announced it was purchasing 114 electric school buses using federal funds from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Grant Program. Many of these electric school buses are made in High Point at the Thomas Built Buses facility.
Trump, Harris crisscross NC as election heats up
Dueling visits showcase the importance of the state to winning the presidency
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record
ASHEVILLE — As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, North Carolina is taking center stage as a crucial swing state. In the last week, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made significant campaign stops, underscoring the state’s importance in the upcoming electoral contest.
Trump made appearances in Asheville last week and Asheboro on Wednesday, while Harris spoke in Raleigh on Aug. 16. These high-profile visits highlight North Caroli-
na’s status as a must-win state for both campaigns.
The significance of North Carolina in presidential politics has grown in recent elections. In 2020, Trump narrowly carried the state with 49.93% of the vote compared to Joe Biden’s 48.59%. This razor-thin margin of victory was even slimmer than Trump’s 2016 win when he secured 49.83% of the vote to Hillary Clinton’s 46.17%.
Recent polling data from RealClearPolitics shows a tight race in North Carolina, with an average lead of 1.2 points for Trump over Harris. Individual polls vary widely, with some showing Harris ahead by as much as 2 points, while others have Trump leading by up to 9 points. This volatility in polling data suggests North Carolina remains very much in play for both parties.
Commissioners
The contrasting nature of the candidates’ events was evident in their recent visits. Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14 drew a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, with many more supporters waiting outside, unable to gain entry. Attendees had begun lining up in the early morning hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm of Trump’s base in the state.
In contrast, Harris’s event in Raleigh on Aug. 16 was a more intimate affair, primarily composed of invited supporters and members of the press. While smaller in scale, the vice president’s visit emphasized the Democratic campaign’s commitment to competing vigorously in North Carolina, and she announced some major policy initiatives. Both candidates focused
looking into establishing ‘proper
Following a slew of what the commissioners referred to as “inappropriate conduct,” the board is looking to crack down on disrespectful offenders
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Commissioners is looking to crack down on what they referred to as “unruly” and “disrespectful” conduct in the public comment period of their regular meetings. Toward the end of their Aug. 1 9 regular business meeting, Vice Chair Harry Southerland brought forth a
decorum’ rules
motion to indefinitely suspend the public comment period in order to give time to establish new rules surrounding the public comment period.
“The purpose of public comment is to allow the citizens to bring up issues for the betterment of Hoke County,” Southerland said. “Lately, our public comment section has been used for political people to come and spew out their political agendas, whether it be Republican or Democrat, and I think that’s the wrong place and not the intent of public comments.”
The onset of the motion also was due to an incident at the board’s last meeting in which the commissioners were aggressively cursed at during the public comment period and the board subsequently had to
have the person removed.
“Over the last three or four years, maybe longer than that, the whole country has become disrespectful to government, whether it’s the federal level, state level or the local level, and we have to bring that respect back, and one way to do that is by demanding respect and not letting people come in and making a mockery of your venue,” Southerland said.
Board Chair James Leach even suggested fully establishing misdemeanors for “foul language” used during the public comment period, stating the need to protect children.
“This is something we just can’t tolerate and put up with anymore,” Leach said.
However, Commissioner Allen Thomas, along with
their speeches on national issues rather than state-specific concerns, reflecting the broader themes of their respective campaigns. Trump continued to emphasize economic issues and border security, while Harris highlighted her vision for an “opportunity economy” and plans to lower the cost of living for American families.
As the election approaches, North Carolinians can expect to see more visits from both candidates and their surrogates. Campaign events are typically announced only a few days in advance, keeping supporters and the media on their toes. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are well-funded and expected to pour significant resources into advertising and organizing efforts in North Carolina, as well as in other battleground states across the country.
The intense focus on North Carolina by both campaigns underscores the state’s potential to be a kingmaker (or queenmaker) in the 2024 elec -
board attorney Grady Hunt, advised the board against any action which would hinder public comments.
“When it comes to suspending public comment, I can’t support that,” Allen said. “I don’t even think we can do that. I’m reading here where it says North Carolina state law requires city councils, county commissioners and local school boards to provide at least one public comment period per month at a regular meeting. That is the general statute. … While we’re frustrated, I want to make sure we don’t make a terrible situation worse, and I think in the next two weeks, our county at-
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left, former President Trump, pictured in Asheville last Wednesday, has made two stops in North Carolina in less than a week. Right, on Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made an economic speech in Raleigh and visited a local shop with Gov. Roy Cooper.
RULES from page A1
torney has the ability to see our frustration and put together an updated policy that speaks to it.”
While no action was taken, the board did advise the attorney to look into ways to establish a more robust policy regarding proper decorum and reasonable rules governing the conduct of citizens during meetings.
“It is not my intent to stop public comment because I think we need public comment,” Southerland clarified. “We just want decency, we want order and we also want to protect our citizens.”
In terms of action items, the board approved 11 separate tax releases, totaling $3,987.26, for the month of August.
“We had four that were uncalculated VA exemptions, three double-listed mobile homes, two late list penalties that were applied in error and one tribe property that needed to be released so it could be added to the Lumbee Tribe agreement Statement,” said Tax Assessor Mandi Davis.
The board also approved the purchase of three copiers for approximately $12,700 for the Hoke County Health Department.
“For the past 10 years, we’ve been leasing contracts on a five-year plan, and we found that it would be cheaper just to go ahead and buy the copiers ourselves, keep them and maintain them,” said Health Director Helene Edwards.
The board then approved a five-year contract with AXOM for new tasers and body cameras, at a firstyear cost of just under $22,000.
The five-year payment structure breaks down to just under $46,000 for year two and approximately $50,000 in each of years three through five.
The contract does, however, allow for free replacements in cases of damage, faulty equipment or the arrival of new technology.
The Hoke County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 2.
THURSDAY
Hurricane Ernesto affects NC beaches with rip currents, house collapse
The home lost in Rodanthe was the seventh in the past four years
By Susan Haigh and Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press
Even with the storm hundreds of miles offshore, Hurricane Ernesto was still being felt Saturday along much of the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, with dangerous rip currents forcing public beaches to close during one of the final busy weekends of the summer season.
The storm’s high surf and swells also contributed to coastal damage, including the collapse of an unoccupied beach house into the water along North Carolina’s narrow barrier islands.
Hurricane specialist Philippe Papin from the National Hurricane Center said Ernesto, which made landfall on the tiny British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, was a “pretty large” hurricane with a “large footprint of seas and waves” affecting the East Coast.
“That whole entire re-
gion in the eastern U.S. coastline are expecting to have high seas and significant rip current threats along the coast,” Papin said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes rip currents as “powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water” that move at speeds of up to 8 feet per second.
In the Outer Banks, the National Park Service confirmed the collapse of the house Friday night in Rodanthe, one of several communities on Hatteras Island. No injuries were reported, the park service reported.
The park service said in a statement that other homes in and near Rodanthe appeared to have sustained damage.
Friday’s was the seventh such house collapse over the past four years on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a 70-mile stretch from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island that’s managed by the federal government. The sixth house collapsed in June.
The low-lying barrier islands are increasingly vulnerable to storm surges and to being washed over from both the Pamlico Sound and the sea.
The park service urged visitors this weekend to avoid the Rodanthe beaches and surf, adding that dangerous debris may be on the beach and the water for several miles.
tion. With its 16 electoral votes and recent history of close contests, North Carolina represents a significant prize for either candidate. As the campaign season heats up, voters in North Carolina will find themselves at the center of the national political conversation. The frequency of high-profile visits and the deluge of campaign advertising are set to increase, reflecting the state’s pivotal role in determining the next occupant of the White House. With just over two months until Election Day — and absentee and early voting starting sooner than that — the battle for North Carolina’s hearts and minds is well underway.
KAMALA from page A1
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
Supporting America’s workforce and lowering your everyday costs
Families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Biden took office.
IF YOU HAD an extra $1,000 in your wallet, what would you do with it?
Unfortunately, that is what “Bidenomics” is costing you every month just to pay for the same goods and services as you did almost four years ago — but it doesn’t have to be that way.
The American Dream to have a good paying job and pursue a better life for your family has always been the cornerstone of what makes our country so great. However, skyrocketing prices, fueled by inflation, continue to make hardworking families struggle to make ends meet.
Right now, the average household in North Carolina spends $119 more a month than they did over 31/2 years ago — that’s just on energy alone. In total, families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Joe Biden took office. From groceries to gas, prices on everything are up over 20% while real average weekly wages are down 3.9%. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris continue to ignore the real harmful impacts of their failed anti-energy policies that are causing this inflation crisis.
House Republicans are working to combat these high prices. We passed legislation to unleash American energy production, reverse Biden’s anti-energy policies, and lower energy costs that continue to burden your family’s pocketbook.
If we are going to restore America’s energy dominance, we must have the workforce to do it — especially with so many goodpaying jobs in the energy sector right here in North Carolina.
That is why last year, I introduced the WORKER Act.
Religious freedom on campus
A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period.
“JEWISH STUDENTS were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith. This fact is so unimaginable and so abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom that it bears repeating.”
So wrote Judge Mark C. Scarsi in issuing a preliminary injunction this week to three Jewish students who sued UCLA after they were denied access to portions of the campus last spring.
“UCLA does not dispute this,” Scarsi continued. “Instead, UCLA claims that it has no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of its Jewish students because the exclusion was engineered by third-party protesters. But under constitutional principles, UCLA may not allow services to some students when UCLA knows that other students are excluded on religious grounds, regardless of who engineered the exclusion.”
My bill will supercharge America’s energy workforce by urging the Department of Energy to award grants to stakeholders prioritizing education and training for energy and manufacturing jobs. This legislation would also prioritize investments in improved education and training for underrepresented groups, including minorities, women and veterans, in energy-related jobs. These investments are key to support American workers, lower energy costs and increase energy independence.
The North Carolina Community College system is one of our state’s greatest assets, especially when it comes to workforce development. I was recently able to visit two of the great community colleges in our region and see firsthand how effective high-skilled workforce development programs can be for our community. These programs help ensure both young people and adults have the skills they need to get the jobs that are out there, which will boost productivity for businesses and lower costs while improving families’ quality of life. In Congress, I will continue to support job-training and workforce development programs which open doors for folks in North Carolina and across the country.
Whether it’s lowering energy costs or strengthening our workforce, rest assured I will never stop fighting to ensure a more prosperous America for you and your family.
Richard Hudson represents the 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. COLUMN
UCLA is just plain wrong. It was responsible for protecting, and ensuring campus access, to all of the students. Instead, UCLA erected bike rack barriers around the encampment and allegedly hired security guards who allowed protesters to cross into the encampment, but not Zionists. “Are you a Zionist?” news accounts at the time reported that the protestors called out to those seeking passage. Protestors approached the students seeking to cross, leaving them no choice but to turn back.
What is as astounding as what happened at UCLA is that a debate has ensued, and continued in the court action, as to whether it was antisemitic.
According to newspaper reports, ProPalestinian students and faculty activists at UCLA, including a Faculty for Justice in Palestine group that filed a friend of the court brief in the injunction lawsuit, claimed that the protestors were antiZionist, but not against Jews, and that many protestors were Jewish.
Jews can be antisemites, too. The Jewish plaintiffs in this action, as the judge recognized, “assert that supporting the Jewish state of Israel is their sincerely held religious belief.” The fact that there were some Jews on the side of the protestors does not make their actions any less antisemitic, or abhorrent.
Did the students really need to bring a lawsuit to persuade UCLA to protect all of its Jewish students? Judging from UCLA’s reaction, apparently they did.
The university, through Mary Osako, vice chancellor of strategic communications, complained that “(t)he district court’s ruling would improperly hamstring our ability to respond to events on the ground and to meet the needs of the Bruin community. We’re closely reviewing the judge’s ruling and considering all our options moving forward.”
“Hamstring (their) ability to respond”? What does that mean? They can’t put up bike racks to keep out Jews? They
can’t just protect the protesting bigots while allowing them to target Jews who support the existence of the state of Israel?
UCLA was not the only university that lost sight of its own responsibilities and blinked at verbal and physical harassment. But it was one of the ugliest occupations. The result was that UCLA lost control of its campus when violent protestors moved onto campus to break up the encampment itself. Hatred breeds more violence. What did they expect?
University attorneys also argued that significant changes took place since the encampment last April that mitigated the students’ concerns. The changes included shutting down newer encampments on the same days they went up, creating a new office of campus safety, putting in place a new police chief and strictly enforcing UCLA rules, including rules that prohibit overnight camping. The court was not convinced that these made an injunction unnecessary. Understandably so, given the history. A new school year is beginning. There will be new challenges. The lesson of UCLA is clear. A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period. No student should ever be denied access to any part of campus because they believe in a Jewish state.
COLUMN | RICHARD HUDSON
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai
The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn
Shinawatra, daughter of the divisive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Party at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shinawatra to hold the job, after her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties in the governing
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and lawmakers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dictate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after less than a year in office. The
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health authorities said Sunday. The African nation has been roiled by a 16-month conflict and devastating floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cases of cholera have been detected across the county in recent weeks. Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tally since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said.
Cholera is a fast-developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering tensions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group ex-
ploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and other urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical facilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation, with famine already confirmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked
northern region of Darfur. Sudan’s conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and international rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have compounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to local authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major outbreak left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak be -
court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach for appointing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thailand’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push forward key policies such as economic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially mention Srettha’s signature proposal for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criticized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable economic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still intends to push forward a major economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
gan in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces. He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detected cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now working with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to implement a vaccination campaign.
Sudan’s military-controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a government delegation to meet with American officials in Cairo amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a statement the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramilitary group to pull out from people’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
Pinthongta Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
HOKE SPORTS
Volleyball, boys’ soccer get off to fast starts in 2024-25
Hoke County’s fall sports season has begun
North State Journal
THE HOKE County sports season began last week, with several of the Bucks teams beginning action.
BOYS’ SOCCER
The Bucks boys’ soccer team got off on a winning foot, shutting out East Bladen 3-0 in the season opener. It’s the seventh season in a row that Hoke County has won its opening game.
Sophomore Derrick Patricio, senior Jose Vazquez De La Cruz and senior Marconi Steele scored goals for the Bucks, while sophomore Joas Hernandez added an
assist. Goalkeepers Larry Ariza Diaz, Brentley Blumer and Marcus Monsanto combined for the shutout.
The Bucks have a busy week, with five games in seven days. They hosted Terry Sanford on Tuesday, after press time, then finished their homestand with a Thursday game against South View. Hoke then travels to Clayton and Red Springs before returning home to face Lumberton.
VOLLEYBALL
The Bucks won their first two games of the season, sweeping St. Pauls 3-0 (25-7, 25-6 and 25-8), then beating E.E. Smith 3-1 (2125, 25-13, 25-12 and 25-9). It’s the first time the Bucks won their opener since 2021, and the first
2-0 start to a volleyball season at Hoke since 2015.
Senior Kayeliana Bonner led the way in the opener with eight kills. Senior Abigail Watts had a team-high six service aces and the only blocked shot of the night for the Bucks. Junior Aubrey Carpenter had 11 digs in the win.
Hoke hopes to keep the winning streak going on the road with games at Red Springs, E.E. Smith, St. Pauls and Scotland still on the agenda for the week.
FOOTBALL
The Bucks open their regular season this week with a home game against Jack Britt at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Last Friday, Hoke County had a tune-up, traveling to Gray’s Creek for the Cumberland County Jamboree.
Hoke County’s football team huddles up for instructions during last Friday’s Cumberland County Jamboree.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Emilee Mandarino
Hoke County, volleyball
Emilee Mandarino is a junior on the Hoke County volleyball team.
The Bucks opened the 2024-25 season with back-to-back wins last week, beating St. Pauls and E.E. Smith.
In the season opener against St. Pauls, Mandarino came up big, leading the team with 10 assists. She had more than half of the Bucks’ assists, topping her teammates by a 10-8 margin. Mandarino also added a service ace and four digs in the 3-0 win.
Appalachian State, Texas State picked as conference favorites
The Mountaineers have a College Football Playoff berth in their sights
By Peter Iacobelli
The Associated Press
APPALACHIAN STATE is looking to add another major achievement in the Sun Belt Conference this season. Maybe more than one.
Like another conference title. And perhaps a spot in the expanded, 12-team College Football Playoff.
Appalachian State was picked to win the Sun Belt’s East Division in preseason selections, led
by quarterback Joey Aguilar as expected offensive player of the year. Coach Shawn Clark believes his team is ready for something special.
Appalachian State has overcome long odds before, most memorably in 2007 when the then-FCS program defeated fifth-ranked Michigan in the Big House, 34-32. Since joining the Sun Belt, the Mountaineers have won two league crowns, in 2018 and 2019.
The Mountaineers enter the season with a lot of momentum after closing 2023 by winning six of their final seven games to go 9-5. Their only loss in that stretch came in the Sun Belt title game,
losing 49-23 at Troy. But they rebounded by defeating Miami (Ohio) 13-9 in the Cure Bowl.
Clark said his team competed hard all season but did not get the breaks during a 3-4 start.
“I knew we had a great football team, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t bounce your way,” he said. “It was a matter of conveying to our players that we were so close, and all we have to do is keep working.”
Led by Aguilar, there’s very little convincing to do about App State’s offense. Aguilar set school records with 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, 4,002 yards of total offense and 293 completions. Aguilar was overlooked by bigger
programs, playing at Diablo Valley College in California before getting contacted by the Mountaineers.
“I’ve just got to make the most of this opportunity, and we’ve got some unfinished business we’ve got to take care of next season,” Aguilar said. And maybe add another milestone season to Appalachian State history. If not App State, then who?
Texas State, in its second season under coach G.J. Kinne, was picked to win the West Division and bring its high-powered offense to the league title game.
The Bobcats led the Sun Belt with 36.7 points and 458.5 yards per game last season. Last year’s 8-5 record included a 45-21 win over Rice in the First Responder Bowl, Texas State’s first FBS bowl appearance.
Last year’s top Sun Belt team, James Madison, reached its first bowl game and went 11-2 in
Appalachian State quarterback Joey Aguilar looks for an open teammate during a game last November. He’s expected to be one of the top offensive players in the Sun Belt this season.
just its second season as an FBS member. The Dukes, who saw coach Curt Cignetti leave for Indiana, were picked second in the East behind App State.
Two-time defending league champion Troy was picked second in the West. The Trojans lost their coach, too, with Jon Sumrall going to Tulane.
Players to watch
Aguilar is expected to dominate among offensive players, but he’s not alone. Jordan McCloud, the conference offensive player of the year in 2023 for James Madison, moved to Texas State, where he’s expected to lead a prolific offense that also includes Ismail Mahdi, who ran for 1,331 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Linebacker Jason Henderson of Old Dominion is the preseason defensive player of the year. Henderson led the country with 14.2 tackles per game.
JASON ALLEN / AP PHOTO
SUN BELT PREVIEW
SIDELINE REPORT
PGA
Spieth’s season over, surgery on left wrist planned
Memphis, Tenn.
Jordan Spieth’s season is over. Next up is surgery on his left wrist. Spieth says he needs to get the sheath on his left wrist fixed. It’s what holds the tendon in place, and it’s an injury that has troubled him for the last 16 months. He has tried various forms of rehabilitation.
Spieth says the total recovery is expected to about three months and he has no golf ahead of him. He failed to advance among the top 50 after the first FedEx Cup playoff event. Spieth says this has been one of the most frustrating seasons of his career.
CYCLING
Niewiadoma wins women’s Tour de France
Alpe d’Huez, France Polish rider Kasia Niewiadoma has done just enough in a thrilling battle with Demi Vollering on the iconic Alpe d’Huez to win the women’s Tour de France by four seconds overall. Vollering was part of a breakaway Sunday with fellow Dutch rider Pauliena Rooijakkers after the Col du Glandon. She accelerated powerfully in the final stretch to win the eighth and final stage. But Niewiadoma finished fourth to narrowly win her first Tour title, with an overall time of 24 hours, 36 minutes, 7 seconds.
NHL
Wrigley Field will host Big Ten games after NHL’s Winter Classic
Chicago Wrigley Field will host two college hockey doubleheaders in January after the NHL’s Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues is played there on New Year’s Eve. The Frozen Confines: Big Ten Hockey Series will be played Jan. 3-4 and will feature three men’s games and one women’s game. The men’s games are Penn State vs. Notre Dame and Ohio State vs. Michigan on Jan. 3 and Wisconsin vs. Michigan State on Jan. 4. Defending national champion Ohio State will play Wisconsin in a women’s game on Jan. 4.
SOCCER
Chelsea coach Maresca defends decision to make Fernandez captain after racist chant
London Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca defended his decision to give midfielder Enzo Fernandez the captain’s armband for the team’s season-opening game despite the Argentina international being filmed singing a racist chant this offseason. Fernandez captained the team in the place of the injured Reece James, even after he was criticized by Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana for posting a video on social media showing Argentina players appearing to sing about French players with African heritage after their Copa America title win.
Reddick wins rain-delayed NASCAR Cup race at Michigan
The 23XI Racing
earned his second victory of 2024
By Larry Lage The Associated Press
BROOKLYN, Mich. — Tyler
Reddick took the lead on a restart in the second overtime to win at Michigan International Speedway on Monday, opening up another spot for a driver in the Cup Series’ playoffs. Reddick is one of 12 drivers with a place secured in the postseason, leaving four spots available with races remaining at Daytona and Darlington. He also won a Cup Series race four months ago in his No. 45 Toyota for 23XI, the team owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan.
Martin Truex Jr. got loose in the No. 19 Toyota on lap 194, bringing out the yellow flag and a restart with six laps to go. Reddick was out front on the
first restart and the race went to a second overtime when Ross Chastain was running 11th and was part of a crash that brought out another yellow.
William Byron led the second restart but Reddick passed him.
Kyle Larson, who leads the Cup standings and was the BetMGM Sportsbook favorite to win the race, lost control of the No. 5 Chevrolet on lap 115 and several cars were tangled up in the mess.
A few laps later, Joey Logano took his damaged No. 22 Ford to the garage and Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota took a hit to stunt the relative success the on-the-bubble driver was having in the race.
The pileup led to Logano finishing 33rd, with Larson one spot behind in the 36-car field.
Austin Dillon was 17th, a week after he wrecked Logano and Hamlin on the final lap to win at Richmond and had
his automatic spot in the playoffs revoked by NASCAR. Dillon’s appeal is scheduled for Wednesday. NASCAR suspended the Michigan race after running out of time Sunday because of rain.
Cars went to pit road on lap 51 of the 200-lap race on Sunday to wait and see if the rain would go away in time to get at least half of the race completed to make it official and avoid having it spill over into an extra day for the second straight year at Michigan.
However, engines were idle until Monday morning, with Chase Elliott as the leader. Elliott finished 15th.
Hamlin started on the pole after rain washed out qualifying Saturday and precipitation delayed the start of the race, sending cars to pit row after a few pace laps.
Jet dryers did laps to remove at least some of the moisture to make racing potentially possi-
Bears assistant King couldn’t
The
female NFL coaching pioneer left a career coaching basketball
By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press
JENNIFER KING was a champion women’s basketball coach when she made the decision to pursue a career in football.
She hasn’t had to look back.
Within three years of switching sports, King became the first black female full-time NFL coach when Washington hired her in 2021 as assistant running backs coach. She spent three seasons with the Commanders before joining Matt Eberflus’ staff with the Chicago Bears this year as an offensive assistant, focusing on running backs.
King’s journey began in 2018 when she met then-Panthers coach Ron Rivera at the NFL’s Women’s Forum, an annual networking event.
King had just led Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Division II title. But football was first in her heart. She played quarterback and safety on a women’s tackle football team and wanted an opportunity in coaching.
“I always liked football more,” King said. “But it was hard to leave basketball. We had won a championship. I was national coach of the year. Like, things were going really well for me. And to just leave was difficult, but I just felt it was something that I couldn’t pass up.”
King’s basketball team practiced close enough to the Panthers’ training facility that she could hear and watch them.
When she met Rivera, he already knew who she was from her basketball pedigree. Rivera’s wife, Stephanie, was an assistant coach in the WNBA and she told him a woman who
ble, but the weather didn’t cooperate.
Two-plus hours later, drivers got back into their cars and Kyle Larson took the lead on the opening lap and was kept it by going 200-plus mph on straightaways and about 180 mph in the turns.
Kyle Busch won the second stage, the first for him and Richard Childress Racing this season. Busch became the 19th driver to win a stage in 2024, setting a single-season record, and became the sixth to win a stage in every year since NASCAR added the wrinkle in 2017.
Up next
Haulers had more than 1,000 miles of highway to transport cars to Daytona Beach, Florida, where qualifying was scheduled Friday for Saturday night’s race. The regular season wraps up the following week at Darlington.
pass up NFL opportunity
plays the game would do well in coaching.
“He invited me over for rookie minicamp,” King said. “I thought I’d be there for two days, but it turned into about four months.”
King spent the summer of 2018 as a coaching intern for the Panthers, working with wide receivers. She returned to Carolina to serve as a running backs coaching intern in 2019.
When Rivera became the head coach in Washington in 2020, King again joined his staff as a coaching intern. He gave her a full-time job the following year.
“She had a drive about her that just really said she wanted to do this, and she also played
the game,” Rivera said. “I just thought that she had this desire, this drive to want to do this at the top level, and I wanted to create an opportunity.
“As we were going through the internship, the one thing I appreciated was she was smart enough to know what she didn’t know. And you could tell because she became really inquisitive. She asked good questions, she listened, and she didn’t pretend to know. Believe me, I’ve been around (male) coaches who pretend to know. And, when they do that, usually, they get it wrong. But she just listened when she didn’t know and that’s what truly intrigued me was that she was willing to just
take a backseat, listen, take it in and ask questions.” King said she hasn’t experienced challenges being one of the few female coaches in a male-dominated industry.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great staffs,” she said. “Coach Flus, we have a great staff here. It’s all about development, which is great. I love it. He’s big on leadership. So, the challenges haven’t been the same as possibly people would think. Like it hasn’t been a lot of: ‘Oh, it’s like a woman here.’ I haven’t really experienced any of that. It’s all about building those relationships and trust in the building with the players and the staff that you’re working with.
ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO
Chicago Bears running back Ian Wheeler (33) celebrates with offensive assistant running backs coach Jennifer King after scoring during a preseason game.
driver
CARLOS OSORIO / AP PHOTO
With rain clouds approaching on Sunday afternoon, drivers compete during the NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway. The
obituaries
Jay Patrick Edge
April 21, 1986 –August 12, 2024
Jay Patrick Edge, of Raeford, NC went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, August 12, 2024, at the age of 38.
He was born in Cumberland County on April 21, 1986, to Dianna Edge and the late John Edge.
Jay was a big kid at heart, a fun-loving person, and a loving father.
He is survived by his mother, Dianna Edge, of Raeford; children, Jordan Edge, of Fayetteville, Lilyanna TrabalEdge, of Raeford, Paytin Edge, Taylor Edge, and Sarah Edge, all of Raeford; siblings, Leanna Hair, of Raeford, Joshua Collins, of Raeford, and Robin Edge, of Raeford; and many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will be held on the evening of Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at Crumpler Funeral Home in Raeford 131 Harris Avenue.
Online condolences may be made on the Crumpler Funeral Home Website.
Brian L. Frankie
November 16, 1950 –July 31, 2024
Brian L. Frankie was born on November 16, 1950, in Christopher, Illinois, the son of the late Bert and Mary McClintock Frankie.
On February 11, 2017, he was united in marriage to Brenda Lupton Frankie, who preceded her husband in death on July 5, 2019.
Brian honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1969 until 1973. He owned and operated Crump Fire Arms/Ammunitions Depot and Pawn Shop, located in Crump Tennessee.
Brian L. Frankie departed this life on July 31, 2024, in Sardis, Tennessee, at the age of 73 years, 8 months, and 15 days. He is survived by his daughter, Brianne Chambers and her husband Jewell of Raeford, North Carolina; son, Cort Frankie and his wife Becca of Youngsville, North Carolina; sister, Sandra Brown of Thompsonville, Illinois; and grandchildren, Madison Matthews of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Ava Chambers and Andy Chambers, both of Raeford, North Carolina, and Caitlyn Frankie, Maggie Frankie, and Luke Frankie, all of Youngsville, North Carolina.
In addition to his parents and wife, Brian was preceded in death by his daughter, Brandy Matthews and brother, Barry Frankie.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, from 10-11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Raeford 333 N Main St, Raeford, NC 28376.
A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tom Lee officiating.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones.
Phil Donahue, onetime king of daytime talk, dies at 88
By Andrew Dalton The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — For nearly two decades, Phil Donahue was virtually the only TV talk show host to roam his audience with a microphone and make them an essential part of his show.
His huge cultural influence — especially with the women who tended to watch television during the day in his era — finally led to a flock of cultural imitators in the 1980s, including one who would eventually knock him off his perch.
“For a long time I wondered why it took so long for someone to copy us,” Donahue told the Archive of American Television in 2001. “Then along came Oprah Winfrey. It is not possible to overstate the enormity of her impact on the daytime television game.”
Donahue died Sunday at age 88 after a long illness.
ing “The Jerry Springer Show” “Geraldo” and “Jenny Jones.”
It was enough to make Donahue feel like he no longer belonged.
“The daytime arena changed, the ground moved under my feet,” Donahue told The Associated Press in 2002, “and I was glad to leave.”
Both before-and-after Oprah, the prematurely gray and always animated Donahue (Phil Hartman sent up his dramatic body language in a recurring “Saturday Night Live” impression) wielded enormous clout, making daytime at once more serious, more newsy and more salacious as he emerged in the late 1960s amid a sea of game shows, soap operas and more frivolous talk shows.
Memorable “Donahue” guests included feminist activist Gloria Steinem, leftist provocateur Jerry Ruben of the Chicago Seven, Muhammad Ali and Ryan White, the boy who contracted AIDS at age 13 in 1984 and became one of the faces of the disease due in large part to his appearances on “Donahue.”
“There wouldn’t have been an Oprah Show without Phil Donahue being the first to prove that daytime talk and women watching should be taken seriously,” she posted on Instagram on Monday along with a photo of the two embracing. “He was a pioneer. I’m glad I got to thank him for it. Rest in peace Phil.”
By the time “Donahue” went
“I lost my sweetheart last night,” Donahue’s wife, the actor Marlo Thomas, wrote Monday on Instagram, saying she would be stepping away from social media “to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and held him close to their hearts.” Winfrey, among those paying him tribute after his death, was always first to acknowledge his importance.
off the air in 1996 after 29 years, nearly 7,000 episodes and 20 Emmy Awards, the daytime television landscape was littered with lookalikes.
Winfrey, based in Chicago like Donahue, premiered in 1985 and overtook him for good in the ratings starting in the 1986-87 season, though Donahue often pointed out that she “raised all boats,” lifting his ratings even while passing him. Later the floodgates truly opened to imitators, most of them far trashier, includ-
After years of lying low, he returned to television to be among the first hosts on MSNBC, who traded heavily on his name in its early promotion. His show premiered in July 2002 and lasted just seven months. He stayed semi-retired after leaving MSNBC, his media appearances mostly one-offs on talk shows and TV documentaries. His voice appeared as a caller needing psychologist’s help on “Frasier” three times in 1999.
The bespectacled talk show host set the stage for Oprah Winfrey
MARK LENNIHAN / AP PHOTO
Phil Donahue, pictured in 1993, died Sunday. He was 88.
STATE & NATION
San Francisco goes after deepfake nude images of women, girls
The city filed a lawsuit that takes on AI
By Matt O’Brien and Haleluya Hadero
The Associated Press
NEARLY A YEAR after AI-generated nude images of high school girls upended a community in southern Spain, a juvenile court this summer sentenced 15 of their classmates to a year of probation.
But the artificial intelligence tool used to create the harmful deepfakes is still easily accessible on the internet, promising to “undress any photo” uploaded to the website within seconds.
Now a new effort to shut down the app and others like it is being pursued in California, where San Francisco this week filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit that experts say could set a precedent but will also face many hurdles.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe,” said David Chiu, the elected city attorney of San Francisco who brought the case against a group of widely visited websites tied to entities
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe.”
David Chiu, city attorney of San Francisco
children. But it can be hard to determine who runs the apps, which are unavailable in phone app stores but still easily found on the internet.
the images of female classmates that then circulate through social media.
In one of the first widely publicized cases last September in Almendralejo, Spain, a physician who helped bring it to the public’s attention after her daughter was among the victims said she is satisfied by the severity of the sentence their classmates are facing after a court decision earlier this summer.
But it is “not only the responsibility of society, of education, of parents and schools but also the responsibility of the digital giants that profit from all this garbage,” Dr. Miriam Al Adib Mendiri said in an interview Friday.
in California, New Mexico, Estonia, Serbia, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
“These images are used to bully, humiliate and threaten women and girls,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “And the impact on the victims has been devastating on their reputation, mental health, loss of autonomy and, in some instances, causing some to become suicidal.”
“There are a number of sites where we don’t know at this moment exactly who these operators are and where they’re operating from, but we have investigative tools and subpoena authority to dig into that,” Chiu said. “And we will certainly utilize our powers in the course of this litigation.”
The lawsuit brought on behalf of the people of California alleges that the services broke numerous state laws against fraudulent business practices, nonconsensual pornography and the sexual abuse of
Woman charged in plot to extort Elvis’ family, auction off Graceland
The Missouri woman posed as three people during the scheme
By Alanna Durkin Richer and Jonathan Mattise The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Missouri woman has been arrested on charges she orchestrated a brazen scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s family by trying to auction off his Graceland mansion and property before a judge halted the mysterious foreclosure sale, the Justice Department said Friday.
Lisa Jeanine Findley, 53, of Kimberling City, falsely claimed Presley’s daughter borrowed $3.8 million from a bogus private lender and had pledged Graceland as collateral for the loan before her death last year, prosecutors said. She then threatened to sell Graceland to the higher bidder if Presley’s family didn’t pay a $2.85 million settlement, according to authorities.
Many of the tools are being used to create realistic fakes that “nudify” photos of clothed adult women, including celebrities, without their consent. But they have also popped up in schools around the world, from Australia to Beverly Hills in California, typically with boys creating
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportunity to prey on the name and financial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate, attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her personal gain,” said Eric Shen, inspector in charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. An attorney for Findley, who used multiple aliases, was not listed in court documents. A voicemail left with a phone number believed to be associated with Findley was not immediately returned, nor was an email sent to an address prosecutors say she had used in the scheme.
She’s charged with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The mail fraud charge carries up to 20 years in prison. She remained in custody after a brief federal court appearance in Missouri, according to court papers.
She applauded San Francisco’s action but said more efforts are needed, including from bigger companies like California-based Meta and its subsidiary WhatsApp, which was used to circulate the images in Spain.
While schools and law enforcement agencies have sought to punish those who make and share the deepfakes, authorities have struggled with what to do about the tools themselves. Organizations that have been tracking the growth of AI-generated child sexual abuse material will be closely following the San Francisco case.
The lawsuit “has the potential to set legal precedent in this area,” said Emily Slifer, the director of policy at Thorn, an organization that works to combat the sexual exploitation of children.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family.”
Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspection Service
ing fraud, and a judge halted the proposed auction with an injunction. Naussany Investments and Private Lending — the bogus lender authorities now say Findley created — said Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for the loan, according to the foreclosure sale notice. Keough’s lawsuit alleged that Naussany presented fraudulent documents regarding the loan in September 2023 and that Lisa Maria Presley never borrowed money from Naussany.
Experts were baffled by the attempt to sell off one of the most storied pieces of real estate in the country using names, emails and documents that were quickly suspected to be phony.
Finley posed as three different people allegedly involved with the fake lender, fabricated loan documents, and published a fraudulent foreclosure notice in a Memphis newspaper announcing the auction of Graceland in May, prosecutors said. A judge stopped the sale after Presley’s granddaughter sued.
Graceland opened as a museum and tourist attraction in 1982 and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A large Presley-themed entertainment complex across the street from the museum is owned by Elvis Presley Enterprises. The announcement of charges came on the 47th anniversary of Presley’s death at the age of 42.
In May, a public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13-acre estate said Promenade Trust, which controls the Graceland museum, owes $3.8 million after failing to repay a 2018 loan. Riley Keough, Presley’s granddaughter and an actor, inherited the trust and ownership of the home after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, last year. An attorney for Keough didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on Friday.
Keough filed a lawsuit claim-
Kimberly Philbrick, the notary whose name is listed on Naussany’s documents, indicated she never met Lisa Marie Presley nor notarized any documents for her, according to the estate’s lawsuit. The judge said the notary’s affidavit brings into question “the authenticity of the signature.”
The judge in May halted the foreclosure sale of the beloved Memphis tourist attraction, saying Elvis Presley’s estate could be successful in arguing that a company’s attempt to auction Graceland was fraudulent.
GABRIELLE LURIE / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE VIA AP
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu speaks at a public safety town hall meeting in San Francisco last September.
MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO
A Missouri woman has been arrested after being accused of orchestrating an extortion plot involving Graceland and Elvis Presley’s heir.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Woman accused of aiding escaped prisoner appears in court
The woman accused of helping an escaped prisoner in North Carolina evade police appeared in court for the first time since her arrest. Jacobia Crisp was charged with aiding and abetting a fugitive and harboring an escapee. She could face more than five years in prison if she is convicted of both charges. Law enforcement says Crisp helped 30-yearold Ramone Alston elude police for multiple days after he escaped from a transport van in Hillsborough. He was later captured in Kannapolis at a hotel on Friday.
New school buses coming to N.C.
NCDMV is showcasing new school buses equipped with new technologies, including safety features, purchased using funds appropriated last year. The agency is using the new technologies and initiatives as part of school bus driver training for 2024. Earlier this year, the state announced it was purchasing 114 electric school buses using federal funds from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Grant Program. Many of these electric school buses are made in High Point at the Thomas Built Buses facility.
NASCAR racing returning to Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025
It’ll be the first Cup Series racing at the stadium in more than 50 years
The Associated Press
WINSTON-SALEM —
Bowman Gray Stadium will host a NASCAR race for the first time in more than a half-century, opening next season with an exhibition race on a site with a rich history in auto racing.
NASCAR announced Sunday that Winston-Salem will be the home of The Clash on
Feb. 2, bringing the sport back to the short track for the first time since 1971.
The Clash is moving from the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum after a three-year stay, following a run in Florida that dated to its inception in 1979 as the kickoff for the Daytona 500.
Bowman Gray Stadium’s racing operations have been managed by NASCAR since March, starting a lease with the city of Winston-Salem that lasts through 2050.
NASCAR founders bought the stadium in 1949, a dozen years after it was built, and had
“Bowman Gray Stadium holds a special place as the original home to grassroots racing.”
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR executive
weekly races. It hosted Cup Series races from 1958 to 1971. “As NASCAR’s first weekly racetrack, Bowman Gray Stadium holds a special place as the original home to grass-
roots racing,” said Ben Kennedy, an executive vice president for NASCAR. “With a history of intense competition, we are proud to host The Clash at the ‘The Madhouse.’”
NASCAR tried something new and built a temporary track inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 2022 for the first year in a three-year run.
When Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Summer Olympics, the opening ceremony will incorporate the century-old facility and the venue also will be the home of track and field as it was in 1932 and 1984.
Commissioners hope to improve affordable child care options with
The text amendments to the UDO will expand the allowances of day care uses
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners is hoping to facilitate the growth of affordable child care options with the action it took at its regular business meeting on Thursday, Aug. 15
The board held two public hearings with the first being for a text amendment to the UDO to modify chapters 3, 5, 6 and 11 pertaining to revise standards for child and adult day care uses to tackle issues regarding affordable child care.
“The amendment was prompted by a change in state regulations for family child care homes which allow for an expansion in capacity from
eight to 10 children,” Murphy said. “There is a shortage in available child care services so that also helped provide us with impetus.”
The amendment will expand the number of zoning districts in which day care uses are allowed by-right by allowing it in all nonresidential districts except for general industrial, combine the small home and large home child day care uses into a single use (child day care home) — these are limited to being established in private residences and as an accessory use to religious institutions — and allowing them by-right in all zoning districts except for general industrial, changing the capacity for child day care home use to three to 12 children when any child is preschool age and 15 children when all children are school age, remove the requirement that day care uses must be operated by the school or religious institution and situated
in buildings also used for educational/religious purposes.
“We feel like these revisions will encourage the establishment or expansion of our current day care uses and allow for more,” Murphy said. “Staff believes these revisions simplify the ordinance for users and brings us into alignment with our peer communities.”
The second hearing was for a zoning petition for 1.91 acres of property located at the southeast intersection of Styers Ferry Road and Kinney Road to be rezoned to General Office — Limited Use.
“The request proposes to redevelop an existing child care facility at this location which is convenient to area residents,” said City/County Planning Director Chris Murphy. “They essentially are requesting to add child care use to the existing uses.”
Following the hearings, the board approved both requests.
The board also approved the
submission of various legislative goals to the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners for consideration at its legislative goals conference to then be brought forth before the General Assembly. These goals included supporting legislation to form a study committee to make recommendations regarding the calculation of the North Carolina Retirement System’s contribution based benefit cap, support legislation to provide counties with the option to advertise required tax notices electronically, support legislation to repeal the require-
PJ WARD-BROWN / TWIN CITY HERALD
Next year, Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem will host its first NASCAR Cup Series race since 1971.
North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)
Neal Robbins, Publisher
Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers
Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor
Jordan Golson, Local News Editor
Shawn Krest, Sports Editor
Dan Reeves, Features Editor
Ryan Henkel, Reporter
P.J. Ward-Brown,
ment requiring counties to post physical notices of tax liens on taxpayers’ properties, support legislation providing flexibility to align K-12 and community college calendars, support legislation that promotes education attainment and career and college readiness by increasing funding for apprenticeship and internship programs, trade certification, and workforce development programs, providing funding to support additional Innovations Waiver slots, support legislation to fulfill the state’s duty to provide all children with the opportunity to receive a sound basic education with a high priority for Pre-K education, support development of best practices to provide appropriate care for individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues, support funding for behavioral health programs and services to address the opioid and substance abuse epidemic, support measures to reduce the number of people with mental illness in county jails and legislation that would allow individuals in custody to continue receiving Medicaid and other federal health benefits until they are convicted, sentenced and incarcerated, and oppose unfunded mandates and changes in eligibility for federal programs that shift costs to counties.
The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 5.
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MONDAY
Trump, Harris crisscross NC as election heats up
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record
ASHEVILLE — As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, North Carolina is taking center stage as a crucial swing state. In the last week, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made significant campaign stops, underscoring the state’s importance in the upcoming electoral contest. Trump made appearances in Asheville last week and Asheboro on Wednesday, while Harris spoke in Raleigh on Aug. 16. These high-profile visits highlight North Carolina’s status as a must-win state for both campaigns. The significance of North Carolina in presidential politics has grown in recent elec-
tions. In 2020, Trump narrowly carried the state with 49.93% of the vote compared to Joe Biden’s 48.59%. This razor-thin margin of victory was even slimmer than Trump’s 2016 win when he secured 49.83% of the vote to Hillary Clinton’s 46.17%.
Recent polling data from RealClearPolitics shows a tight race in North Carolina, with an average lead of 1.2 points for Trump over Harris. Individual polls vary widely, with some showing Harris ahead by as much as 2 points, while others have Trump leading by up to 9 points. This volatility in polling data suggests North Carolina remains very much in play for both parties.
The contrasting nature of the candidates’ events was evident in their recent visits. Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14 drew a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, with many more supporters waiting outside, unable to gain entry. Attendees
had begun lining up in the early morning hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm of Trump’s base in the state. In contrast, Harris’s event in Raleigh on Aug. 16 was a more intimate affair, primarily composed of invited supporters and members of the press. While smaller in scale, the vice president’s visit emphasized the Democratic campaign’s commitment to competing vigorously in North Carolina, and she announced some major policy initiatives.
Both candidates focused their speeches on national issues rather than state-specific concerns, reflecting the broader themes of their respective campaigns. Trump continued to emphasize economic issues and border security, while Harris highlighted her vision for an “opportunity economy” and plans to lower the cost of living for American families.
As the election approaches, North Carolinians can expect to see more visits from
both candidates and their surrogates. Campaign events are typically announced only a few days in advance, keeping supporters and the media on their toes. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are well-funded and expected to pour significant resources into advertising and organizing efforts in North Carolina, as well as in other battleground states across the country.
The intense focus on North Carolina by both campaigns underscores the state’s potential to be a kingmaker (or queenmaker) in the 2024 election. With its 16 electoral votes and recent history of close contests, North Carolina represents a significant prize for either candidate.
As the campaign season heats up, voters in North Carolina will find themselves at the center of the national political conversation. The frequency of high-profile visits and the deluge of campaign advertising are set to increase, reflecting the state’s pivotal role in determining the next occupant of the White House.
With just over two months until Election Day — and absentee and early voting starting sooner than that — the battle for North Carolina’s hearts and minds is well underway.
Hurricane Ernesto affects NC beaches with rip currents, house collapse
The home lost in Rodanthe was the seventh in the past four years
By Susan Haigh and Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press
EVEN WITH the storm hundreds of miles offshore, Hurricane Ernesto was still being felt Saturday along much of the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, with dangerous rip currents forcing public beaches to close during one of the final busy weekends of the summer season. The storm’s high surf and swells also contributed to coastal damage, including the collapse of an unoccupied beach house into the water along North Carolina’s narrow barrier islands.
Hurricane specialist Philippe Papin from the National Hurricane Center said
Ernesto, which made landfall on the tiny British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, was a “pretty large” hurricane with a “large footprint of seas and waves” affecting the central Florida Atlantic coastline all the way north to Long Island in New York.
“That whole entire region in the eastern U.S. coastline are expecting to have high seas and significant rip current threats along the coast,” Papin said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes rip currents as “powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water” that move at speeds of up to 8 feet per second.
In the Outer Banks, the National Park Service confirmed the collapse of the house Friday night in Rodanthe, one of several communities on Hatteras Island. No injuries were reported, the park service reported.
The park service said in a
statement that other homes in and near Rodanthe appeared to have sustained damage.
Friday’s was the seventh such house collapse over the past four years on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a 70-mile stretch from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island that’s managed by the federal government. The sixth house collapsed in June.
The low-lying barrier islands are increasingly vulnerable to storm surges and to being washed over from both the Pamlico Sound and the sea.
The park service urged visitors this weekend to avoid the Rodanthe beaches and surf, adding that dangerous debris may be on the beach and the water for several miles. A portion of national seashore land north of Rodanthe also was closed to the public. Significant debris removal wasn’t expected until early next week after the elevated sea conditions subside,
the park service said. The National Weather Service issued coastal flooding and high surf advisories for the Outer Banks over the weekend and into the early parts of the week. It also warned of significant threats of rip currents, large waves or both reaching north to Virginia and Maryland beaches and south along the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and much of Florida. In Bermuda, businesses were beginning to reopen after the storm passed and “we are on our way back to living a life of normalcy,” said Bermuda Security Minister Michael Weeks on Sunday. There were no reports of major damage, said Lyndon Raynor of Bermuda’s Disaster Risk Reduction Mitigation Team. BELCO, Bermuda’s power company, said 50% of customers had electricity but more than 8,000 remained without it Sunday.
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left, former President Trump, pictured in Asheville last Wednesday, has made two stops in North Carolina in less than a week. Right, on Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made an economic speech in Raleigh and visited a local shop with Gov. Roy Cooper.
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Harris is far left
Harris has begun to walk back many things she has said in the past.
A LIE REPEATED often enough becomes the truth that everybody knows. It is now campaign season, and there will be no shortage of lies told and repeated. If we had a true media doing its job, there would be accountability. We don’t. The only time the media does its job is when there is a Republican in the White House. Then they work around the clock to uncover stuff that never even happened. As in Russia, Russia, Russia. Remember that lie told about President Donald Trump? It was completely made up, funded by Hillary Clinton’s campaign and promoted by the FBI and the media without any serious investigation.
Vice President Kamala Harris has begun to walk back many things she has said in the past. Was she lying then or is she lying now? She was a strong advocate for defunding the police and now says that’s not true. She was also appointed Border Czar and now claims she never was. She also claimed on numerous occasions that the border was secure while we watched illegals walk in by the thousands.
Because of the administration’s border policies, we now have had more than 10 million illegals entering this country since Joe Biden and Harris took office.
Let’s look at some of the other things she has said and done. So far, she has refused to be interviewed or hold a press conference. Will there be an outcry from the media demanding that she face questions? We shall see.
While Harris was the prosecutor of San Francisco, it was the only major city in the United States that failed to prosecute priests for sexual abuse of children. The law firms representing the priests were her biggest donors to her campaign. This is information revealed in Peter Schweitzer’s book, “Profiles in Corruption.” Wonder what lie she will tell on this?
She has a long laundry list of things that she will need to lie out before the American people will likely vote for her. Of course, the people have to know about this list, and we can’t count on the media to expose any dark side.
As attorney general, she blocked evidence to free an innocent man. After the court ordered her to release the evidence, the suspect was freed. He sued California and received $13 million from the state. She promoted and backed a bail fund for Black Lives Matter members who were convicted. These criminals burned down buildings and wreaked havoc across our country. Harris also contributed to and supported the “Freedom Fund.” This fund raises money to put rapists, murderers and other criminals back on the street. This post is still up, so she’s not trying to hide from that apparently.
Religious freedom on campus
A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period.
“JEWISH STUDENTS were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith. This fact is so unimaginable and so abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom that it bears repeating.”
So wrote Judge Mark C. Scarsi in issuing a preliminary injunction this week to three Jewish students who sued UCLA after they were denied access to portions of the campus last spring.
“UCLA does not dispute this,” Scarsi continued. “Instead, UCLA claims that it has no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of its Jewish students because the exclusion was engineered by thirdparty protesters. But under constitutional principles, UCLA may not allow services to some students when UCLA knows that other students are excluded on religious grounds, regardless of who engineered the exclusion.”
UCLA is just plain wrong. It was responsible for protecting, and ensuring campus access, to all of the students. Instead, UCLA erected bike rack barriers around the encampment and allegedly hired security guards who allowed protesters to cross into the encampment, but not Zionists. “Are you a Zionist?” news accounts at the time reported that the protestors called out to those seeking passage. Protestors approached the students seeking to cross, leaving them no choice but to turn back.
Joe Gamaldi, the national vice president for the Fraternal Order of Police said, “Let’s be clear about something: If Kamala Harris becomes the next president of the United States, she will be an unmitigated disaster for public safety in this country. Over the last three years in the U.S., we’ve averaged over 20,000 homicides a year, and we haven’t seen those numbers since the mid-1990s.” He pointed out that bail reform laws are the horrific consequences of these policies.
In a recent statement, Harris did a good deal of pandering. She addressed the “out of control” inflation. She threatened to set price freezes on groceries to stop price gouging by grocery stores. Is she kidding or is she crazy? Grocers have one of the smallest profit margins in all retail industries, 1.5%. Has she been to communist countries where shelves are empty in the stores? Price fixing is not capitalism, and it has never worked. It has been tried repeatedly and leads to shortages and starvation in many cases. Does she not realize that grocery stores must compete for business? Does she also not realize that the Biden-Harris policies are the reason we have runaway inflation? Groceries are not the only consumer item that has spiraled upward. Everything is much costlier than when this administration took office.
She is a supporter of the “Green New Deal.” This is the worst policy that could ever happen to this country. It would require banning gas cars and eliminating greenhouse gases in agriculture, manufacturing and other industrial sectors. In other words, it would force industries out of business or to move to China or India. It’s not rocket science to know that those countries have no restrictions, and we all breathe the same air. Environmental issues would be much worse if those countries take our industries.
The Green New Deal would also require universal health care. Insurance would be banned, and the government would be in charge. If you think health care is expensive now, wait until it’s free.
The price tag on this Green New Deal is estimated between $51 trillion to $93 trillion. Money that we would have to borrow from China, I guess.
There is so much more that I could say about Harris, but that’s enough to scare us all. Remember, when somebody shows you who they are, believe them regardless of what they say. Because they lie.
Sen. Joyce Krawiec has represented Forsyth County and the 31st District in the North Carolina Senate since 2014. She lives in Kernersville.
What is as astounding as what happened at UCLA is that a debate has ensued, and continued in the court action, as to whether it was antisemitic. According to newspaper reports, Pro-Palestinian students and faculty activists at UCLA, including a Faculty for Justice in Palestine group that filed a friend of the court brief in the injunction lawsuit, claimed that the protestors were antiZionist, but not against Jews, and that many protestors were Jewish.
Jews can be antisemites, too. The Jewish plaintiffs in this action, as the judge recognized, “assert that supporting the Jewish state of Israel is their sincerely held religious belief.” The fact that there were some Jews on the side of the protestors does not make their actions any less antisemitic, or abhorrent.
Did the students really need to bring a lawsuit to persuade UCLA to protect all of its Jewish students? Judging from UCLA’s reaction, apparently they did. The university, through Mary Osako, vice chancellor of strategic communications, complained that “(t)he district court’s ruling would improperly hamstring our ability to respond to events on the ground and to meet the needs of the Bruin community. We’re closely reviewing the judge’s ruling and considering all our options moving forward.”
“Hamstring (their) ability to respond”? What does that mean? They can’t put up bike
racks to keep out Jews? They can’t just protect the protesting bigots while allowing them to target Jews who support the existence of the state of Israel?
UCLA was not the only university that lost sight of its own responsibilities and blinked at verbal and physical harassment. But it was one of the ugliest occupations. The result was that UCLA lost control of its campus when violent protestors moved onto campus to break up the encampment itself. Hatred breeds more violence. What did they expect? University attorneys also argued that significant changes took place since the encampment last April that mitigated the students’ concerns. The changes included shutting down newer encampments on the same days they went up, creating a new office of campus safety, putting in place a new police chief and strictly enforcing UCLA rules, including rules that prohibit overnight camping. The court was not convinced that these made an injunction unnecessary. Understandably so, given the history.
A new school year is beginning. There will be new challenges. The lesson of UCLA is clear. A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period. No student should ever be denied access to any part of campus because they believe in a Jewish state.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
TRIAD STRAIGHT TALK | JOYCE KRAWEIC
Kamala
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the divisive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Party at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shinawatra to hold the job, after her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties in the governing
Pinthongta Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and lawmakers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dictate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after less than a year in office. The
court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach for appointing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thailand’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push forward key policies such as economic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially mention Srettha’s signature proposal for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criticized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable economic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still intends to push forward a major economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health authorities said Sunday. The African nation has been roiled by a 16-month conflict and devastating floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cases of cholera have been detected across the county in recent weeks.
Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tal-
ly since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said. Cholera is a fast-developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering tensions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group exploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and oth-
er urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical facilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation, with famine already confirmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked northern region of Darfur.
Sudan’s conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and inter-
national rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have compounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to local authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major outbreak left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak began in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces. He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detected cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now work-
ing with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to implement a vaccination campaign.
Sudan’s military-controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a government delegation to meet with American officials in Cairo amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a statement the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramilitary group to pull out from people’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
Forsyth SPORTS
Bears assistant King couldn’t pass up NFL opportunity
The female NFL coaching pioneer left a career
By Rob Maaddi
The Associated Press
JENNIFER KING was a champion women’s basketball coach when she made the decision to pursue a career in football.
She hasn’t had to look back.
Within three years of switching sports, King became the first black female full-time NFL coach when Washington hired her in 2021 as assistant running backs coach. She spent three seasons with the Commanders before joining Matt Eberflus’ staff with the Chicago Bears this year as an offensive assistant, focusing on running backs.
King’s journey began in 2018 when she met then-Panthers coach Ron Rivera at the NFL’s Women’s Forum, an annual networking event.
King had just led Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Division II title. But football was first in her heart. She played quarterback and safety on a women’s tackle football team and wanted an opportunity in coaching.
“I always liked football more,” King said. “But it was hard to leave basketball. We had won a championship. I was national coach of the year. Like, things were going really well for me. And to just leave was difficult, but I just felt it was something that I couldn’t pass up.”
King’s basketball team practiced close enough to the Panthers’ training facility that she could hear and watch them. When she met Rivera, he already knew who she was from
her basketball pedigree. Rivera’s wife, Stephanie, was an assistant coach in the WNBA and she told him a woman who plays the game would do well in coaching.
“He invited me over for rookie minicamp,” King said. “I thought I’d be there for two days, but it turned into about four months.”
King spent the summer of 2018 as a coaching intern for the Panthers, working with wide receivers. She returned to Carolina to serve as a running backs coaching intern in 2019.
When Rivera became the head coach in Washington in 2020, King again joined his staff as a coaching intern. He gave her a full-time job the following year.
“She had a drive about her that just really said she wanted to do this, and she also played the game,” Rivera said. “I just thought that she had this desire, this drive to want to do this at the top level, and I wanted to create an opportunity.
“As we were going through the internship, the one thing I appreciated was she was smart enough to know what she didn’t
know. And you could tell because she became really inquisitive. She asked good questions, she listened, and she didn’t pretend to know. Believe me, I’ve been around (male) coaches who pretend to know. And, when they do that, usually, they get it wrong. But she just listened when she didn’t know and that’s what truly intrigued me was that she was willing to just take a backseat, listen, take it in and ask questions.”
King said she hasn’t experienced challenges being one of the few female coaches in a male-dominated industry.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great staffs,” she said. “Coach Flus, we have a great staff here. It’s all about development, which is great. I love it. He’s big on leadership. So, the challenges haven’t been the same as possibly people would think. Like it hasn’t been a lot of: ‘Oh, it’s like a woman here.’ I haven’t really experienced any of that. It’s all about building those relationships and trust in the building with the players and the staff that you’re working with.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Haegen Paschold
West Forsyth, boys’ soccer
Haegen Paschold is a senior forward on the West Forsyth boys’ soccer team. He has also played lacrosse for the Titans.
Last season, Paschold led West Forsyth in goals and assists, and he was also the leading scorer in the Central Piedmont 4A conference. He has picked up where he left off in 2024‑25. The Titans are 2 0 1 to start the year, and Paschold is tied for the team lead with three goals. He had two in a season opening 4 1 win over Lake Norman and added another in a 4 0 win over Mooresville.
Appalachian State, Texas State picked as conference favorites
The Mountaineers have a College Football Playoff berth in their sights
By Peter Iacobelli
The
APPALACHIAN STATE is looking to add another major achievement in the Sun Belt Conference this season. Maybe more than one.
Like another conference title. And perhaps a spot in the expanded, 12-team College Football Playoff.
Appalachian State was picked to win the Sun Belt’s East Division in preseason selections, led
by quarterback Joey Aguilar as expected offensive player of the year. Coach Shawn Clark believes his team is ready for something special.
Appalachian State has overcome long odds before, most memorably in 2007 when the then-FCS program defeated fifth-ranked Michigan in the Big House, 34-32. Since joining the Sun Belt, the Mountaineers have won two league crowns, in 2018 and 2019. The Mountaineers enter the season with a lot of momentum after closing 2023 by winning six of their final seven games to go 9-5. Their only loss in that stretch came in the Sun Belt title game,
losing 49-23 at Troy. But they rebounded by defeating Miami (Ohio) 13-9 in the Cure Bowl.
Clark said his team competed hard all season but did not get the breaks during a 3-4 start.
“I knew we had a great football team, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t bounce your way,” he said. “It was a matter of conveying to our players that we were so close, and all we have to do is keep working.”
Led by Aguilar, there’s very little convincing to do about App State’s offense. Aguilar set school records with 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, 4,002 yards of total offense and 293 completions. Aguilar was overlooked by bigger
programs, playing at Diablo Valley College in California before getting contacted by the Mountaineers.
“I’ve just got to make the most of this opportunity, and we’ve got some unfinished business we’ve got to take care of next season,” Aguilar said. And maybe add another milestone season to Appalachian State history.
If not App State, then who?
Texas State, in its second season under coach G.J. Kinne, was picked to win the West Division and bring its high-powered offense to the league title game.
The Bobcats led the Sun Belt with 36.7 points and 458.5 yards per game last season. Last year’s 8-5 record included a 45-21 win over Rice in the First Responder Bowl, Texas State’s first FBS bowl appearance.
Last year’s top Sun Belt team, James Madison, reached its first bowl game and went 11-2 in
Appalachian State quarterback Joey Aguilar looks for an open teammate during a game last November. He’s expected to be one of the top offensive players in the Sun Belt this season.
just its second season as an FBS member. The Dukes, who saw coach Curt Cignetti leave for Indiana, were picked second in the East behind App State.
Two-time defending league champion Troy was picked second in the West. The Trojans lost their coach, too, with Jon Sumrall going to Tulane.
Players to watch
Aguilar is expected to dominate among offensive players, but he’s not alone. Jordan McCloud, the conference offensive player of the year in 2023 for James Madison, moved to Texas State, where he’s expected to lead a prolific offense that also includes Ismail Mahdi, who ran for 1,331 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Linebacker Jason Henderson of Old Dominion is the preseason defensive player of the year. Henderson led the country with 14.2 tackles per game.
coaching basketball
Associated Press
JASON ALLEN / AP PHOTO
SUN BELT PREVIEW
ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO
Chicago Bears running back Ian Wheeler (33) celebrates with offensive assistant running backs coach Jennifer King after scoring during a preseason game.
PGA
Spieth’s season over, surgery on left wrist planned
Memphis, Tenn.
Jordan Spieth’s season is over. Next up is surgery on his left wrist. Spieth says he needs to get the sheath on his left wrist fixed. It’s what holds the tendon in place, and it’s an injury that has troubled him for the last 16 months. He has tried various forms of rehabilitation.
Spieth says the total recovery is expected to about three months and he has no golf ahead of him. He failed to advance among the top 50 after the first FedEx Cup playoff event. Spieth says this has been one of the most frustrating seasons of his career.
CYCLING
Niewiadoma wins women’s Tour de France
Alpe d’Huez, France Polish rider Kasia Niewiadoma has done just enough in a thrilling battle with Demi Vollering on the iconic Alpe d’Huez to win the women’s Tour de France by four seconds overall. Vollering was part of a breakaway Sunday with fellow Dutch rider Pauliena Rooijakkers after the Col du Glandon. She accelerated powerfully in the final stretch to win the eighth and final stage. But Niewiadoma finished fourth to narrowly win her first Tour title, with an overall time of 24 hours, 36 minutes, 7 seconds.
NHL
Wrigley Field will host Big Ten games after NHL’s Winter Classic
Chicago Wrigley Field will host two college hockey doubleheaders in January after the NHL’s Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues is played there on New Year’s Eve. The Frozen Confines: Big Ten Hockey Series will be played Jan. 3-4 and will feature three men’s games and one women’s game. The men’s games are Penn State vs. Notre Dame and Ohio State vs. Michigan on Jan. 3 and Wisconsin vs. Michigan State on Jan. 4. Defending national champion Ohio State will play Wisconsin in a women’s game on Jan. 4.
SOCCER
Chelsea coach Maresca defends decision to make Fernandez captain after racist chant
London Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca defended his decision to give midfielder Enzo Fernandez the captain’s armband for the team’s season-opening game despite the Argentina international being filmed singing a racist chant this offseason. Fernandez captained the team in the place of the injured Reece James, even after he was criticized by Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana for posting a video on social media showing Argentina players appearing to sing about French players with African heritage after their Copa America title win.
Reddick wins rain-delayed NASCAR Cup race at Michigan
first restart and the race went to a second overtime when Ross Chastain was running 11th and was part of a crash that brought out another yellow.
By Larry Lage The Associated Press
BROOKLYN, Mich. — Tyler
Reddick took the lead on a restart in the second overtime to win at Michigan International Speedway on Monday, opening up another spot for a driver in the Cup Series’ playoffs. Reddick is one of 12 drivers with a place secured in the postseason, leaving four spots available with races remaining at Daytona and Darlington. He also won a Cup Series race four months ago in his No. 45 Toyota for 23XI, the team owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan.
Martin Truex Jr. got loose in the No. 19 Toyota on lap 194, bringing out the yellow flag and a restart with six laps to go. Reddick was out front on the
William Byron led the second restart but Reddick passed him.
Kyle Larson, who leads the Cup standings and was the BetMGM Sportsbook favorite to win the race, lost control of the No. 5 Chevrolet on lap 115 and several cars were tangled up in the mess.
A few laps later, Joey Logano took his damaged No. 22 Ford to the garage and Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota took a hit to stunt the relative success the on-the-bubble driver was having in the race.
The pileup led to Logano finishing 33rd, with Larson one spot behind in the 36-car field.
Austin Dillon was 17th, a week after he wrecked Logano and Hamlin on the final lap to win at Richmond and had
his automatic spot in the playoffs revoked by NASCAR. Dillon’s appeal is scheduled for Wednesday. NASCAR suspended the Michigan race after running out of time Sunday because of rain.
Cars went to pit road on lap 51 of the 200-lap race on Sunday to wait and see if the rain would go away in time to get at least half of the race completed to make it official and avoid having it spill over into an extra day for the second straight year at Michigan.
However, engines were idle until Monday morning, with Chase Elliott as the leader. Elliott finished 15th.
Hamlin started on the pole after rain washed out qualifying Saturday and precipitation delayed the start of the race, sending cars to pit row after a few pace laps.
Jet dryers did laps to remove at least some of the moisture to make racing potentially possi-
Bears assistant King couldn’t
The
female NFL coaching pioneer left a career coaching basketball
By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press
JENNIFER KING was a champion women’s basketball coach when she made the decision to pursue a career in football.
She hasn’t had to look back.
Within three years of switching sports, King became the first black female full-time NFL coach when Washington hired her in 2021 as assistant running backs coach. She spent three seasons with the Commanders before joining Matt Eberflus’ staff with the Chicago Bears this year as an offensive assistant, focusing on running backs.
King’s journey began in 2018 when she met then-Panthers coach Ron Rivera at the NFL’s Women’s Forum, an annual networking event.
King had just led Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Division II title. But football was first in her heart. She played quarterback and safety on a women’s tackle football team and wanted an opportunity in coaching.
“I always liked football more,” King said. “But it was hard to leave basketball. We had won a championship. I was national coach of the year. Like, things were going really well for me. And to just leave was difficult, but I just felt it was something that I couldn’t pass up.”
King’s basketball team practiced close enough to the Panthers’ training facility that she could hear and watch them.
When she met Rivera, he already knew who she was from her basketball pedigree. Rivera’s wife, Stephanie, was an assistant coach in the WNBA and she told him a woman who
ble, but the weather didn’t cooperate.
Two-plus hours later, drivers got back into their cars and Kyle Larson took the lead on the opening lap and was kept it by going 200-plus mph on straightaways and about 180 mph in the turns.
Kyle Busch won the second stage, the first for him and Richard Childress Racing this season. Busch became the 19th driver to win a stage in 2024, setting a single-season record, and became the sixth to win a stage in every year since NASCAR added the wrinkle in 2017.
Up next
Haulers had more than 1,000 miles of highway to transport cars to Daytona Beach, Florida, where qualifying was scheduled Friday for Saturday night’s race. The regular season wraps up the following week at Darlington.
pass up NFL opportunity
plays the game would do well in coaching.
“He invited me over for rookie minicamp,” King said. “I thought I’d be there for two days, but it turned into about four months.”
King spent the summer of 2018 as a coaching intern for the Panthers, working with wide receivers. She returned to Carolina to serve as a running backs coaching intern in 2019.
When Rivera became the head coach in Washington in 2020, King again joined his staff as a coaching intern. He gave her a full-time job the following year.
“She had a drive about her that just really said she wanted to do this, and she also played
the game,” Rivera said. “I just thought that she had this desire, this drive to want to do this at the top level, and I wanted to create an opportunity.
“As we were going through the internship, the one thing I appreciated was she was smart enough to know what she didn’t know. And you could tell because she became really inquisitive. She asked good questions, she listened, and she didn’t pretend to know. Believe me, I’ve been around (male) coaches who pretend to know. And, when they do that, usually, they get it wrong. But she just listened when she didn’t know and that’s what truly intrigued me was that she was willing to just
take a backseat, listen, take it in and ask questions.” King said she hasn’t experienced challenges being one of the few female coaches in a male-dominated industry.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great staffs,” she said. “Coach Flus, we have a great staff here. It’s all about development, which is great. I love it. He’s big on leadership. So, the challenges haven’t been the same as possibly people would think. Like it hasn’t been a lot of: ‘Oh, it’s like a woman here.’ I haven’t really experienced any of that. It’s all about building those relationships and trust in the building with the players and the staff that you’re working with.
ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO
Chicago Bears running back Ian Wheeler (33) celebrates with offensive assistant running backs coach Jennifer King after scoring during a preseason game.
The 23XI Racing driver earned his second victory of 2024
CARLOS OSORIO / AP PHOTO
With rain clouds approaching on Sunday afternoon, drivers compete during the NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway. The
the stream
“Reasonable Doubt” will stream this week.
Sabrina Carpenter gets cheeky, ‘Furiosa’ fights, Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon’ spins
The Associated Press
THIS WEEK’S new streaming entertainment releases include albums from Lainey Wilson and Sabrina Carpenter, George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” on the small screen, and Kevin Costner’s Western “Horizon: An American Saga” comes to Max.
Also streaming this week: The acclaimed series “Pachinko” returns to Apple TV+ for its eight-episode second season, and John Woo revisits one of his classic films in “The Killer,” a remake of his 1989 Hong Kongset action movie.
MOVIES TO STREAM
George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” streaming now on Max, may have struggled to match the dizzying heights of 2015’s “Fury Road.” However, the film features extraordinary action sequences, a grand fleet of dystopian vehicles, and one of Chris Hemsworth’s best performances. Anya Taylor-Joy stars as young Furiosa, taking over the role played earlier by Charlize Theron. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented that “Miller is trying to add operatic heft and seriousness to what started in 1979 as a fun, rip-roaring smear of nightmarish, post-apocalyptic motor oil.”
After a bumpy run in theaters, Kevin Costner’s Western “Horizon: An American Saga” lands on Max Friday. Costner’s three-hour epic, the first of what Costner had hoped would be a four-film series, didn’t win over a lot of critics nor light up the box office ($29 million domestically) despite Costner’s passionate belief in the project. (He put up millions of dollars in his own money for its $100 million-plus budget.) A release date for the already-completed part two was also postponed. An ensemble cast is led by Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone and Costner.
In Tina Mabry’s “The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat” (streaming Friday on Hulu), Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Sanaa Lathan and Uzo Aduba star as a trio of Indiana lifelong friends who have named themselves after the Motown trio. Adapted from Edward Kelsey Moore’s 2013 book by Mabry and Gina Prince-Bythewood (who’s credited under the pseudonym Cee Marcellus), “The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat” chronicles an abiding sisterhood through ups and downs.
John Woo revisits one of his classic films in “The Killer” (streaming Friday on Peacock),
a remake of his 1989 Hong Kong-set action movie. Nathalie Emmanuel (“Game of Thrones”) stars as an assassin trailed by a detective (Omar Sy) in Europe. A remake of “The Killer” has been in the works since the early ’90s, with a wide gamut of filmmakers and stars (from Denzel Washington to Lupita Nyong’o) who have been attached over the years. In the end, Woo, 77, decided to remake it himself.
MUSIC TO STREAM
For many, Sabrina Carpenter is a newcomer in pop music, having entered like a wrecking ball with her 2024 song of the summer, “Espresso,” and the dreamy, twangy, Jack Antonoff-produced follow-up single, “Please, Please, Please.” But it will mark her sixth album when “Short N’ Sweet,” her latest full-length project, releases on Friday. Sometimes it takes nearly a decade to succeed overnight. Her last album, 2022’s “Emails I Can’t Send,” was her first since leaving Disney’s Hollywood Records, a mature take
on the pop she’s long had a penchant for; it also served as an introduction to her brand of cheeky, R-rated humor, like in the R&B swagger of “Nonsense.”
Lainey Wilson began her career more or less in high school, working as a Hannah Montana impersonator. Then came a few rough years trying to make it in Nashville — in fact, she released her debut album exactly 10 years ago. The bumpy ride has paid off, and on Friday, she’ll release her fifth studio album, “Whirlwind.” Let it be a lesson that there’s a real reward for talented people who don’t give up. These days, she’s a Grammy winner, the first woman to win Entertainer of the Year at the CMAs since Taylor Swift in 2011, and in June, she was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. Talk about a “Whirlwind.” Her new album deals with the wild ride of life, love and heartbreak, taking Wilson’s specific experiences and making them universal.
Also, on Friday, country star Thomas Rhett will release a new album, “About A Woman.” Laid
back as ever, the songs here are classic Rhett. They’re also love letters. “Gone Country” pulls from hip-hop production, as is a trend in contemporary country; “After All The Bars Are Closed” and “Overdrive” are all romance. These songs are “About A Woman,” indeed. It has been 24 years since the Softies — the minimalist indie-pop duo of Rose Melberg (also of Tiger Trap, Gaze, Go Sailor) and Jen Sbragia (Pretty Face) — have released a new album. In that time, generations of music obsessives had learned and loved their back catalog and worked to understand their powers. How can two electric guitars and sugar-rush harmonies hit with such humanity? But a magician never reveals her tricks, and in the case of “The Bed I Made,” the Softies’ forthcoming album, there’s more magic to experience.
SHOWS TO STREAM
Sabrina Carpenter’s sixth album, “Short N’ Sweet,” drops Friday.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
The protagonist of Black Myth, Wukong, is a monkey, but he’s evolved a long way from Donkey Kong. Indeed, he’s the “Destined One,” rocking a sweet suit of armor and a magical staff. Chinese developer Game Science promises a blend of challenging combat, role-playing mechanics and an epic story based on the classic “Journey to the West.” The trek begins on PlayStation 5 and PC.
“Reasonable Doubt” debuts its second season on Hulu. The series has an all-black writers room and has been praised for reflecting a true black experience. Emayatzy Corinealdi plays Jax Stewart, a defense attorney who often colors outside the lines regarding legal ethics. Morris Chestnut joins the show for season two. The acclaimed series “Pachinko” returns to Apple TV+ for its eight-episode second season on Friday. Based on a 2017 novel by Min Jin Lee, “Pachinko” is about four generations of an immigrant Korean family that moved to Japan before World War II.
John Woo revisits his classic action film in “The Killer”
“The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat, left, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” center, and the series
STATE & NATION
San Francisco goes after deepfake nude images of women, girls
The city filed a lawsuit that takes on AI
By Matt O’Brien and Haleluya Hadero
The Associated Press
NEARLY A YEAR after AI-generated nude images of high school girls upended a community in southern Spain, a juvenile court this summer sentenced 15 of their classmates to a year of probation.
But the artificial intelligence tool used to create the harmful deepfakes is still easily accessible on the internet, promising to “undress any photo” uploaded to the website within seconds.
Now a new effort to shut down the app and others like it is being pursued in California, where San Francisco this week filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit that experts say could set a precedent but will also face many hurdles.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe,” said David Chiu, the elected city attorney of San Francisco who brought the case against a group of widely visited websites tied to entities in California, New Mexico, Estonia, Serbia, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe.”
David Chiu, city attorney of San Francisco
which are unavailable in phone app stores but still easily found on the internet.
classmates that then circulate through social media.
In one of the first widely publicized cases last September in Almendralejo, Spain, a physician who helped bring it to the public’s attention after her daughter was among the victims said she is satisfied by the severity of the sentence their classmates are facing after a court decision earlier this summer.
But it is “not only the responsibility of society, of education, of parents and schools but also the responsibility of the digital giants that profit from all this garbage,” Dr. Miriam Al Adib Mendiri said in an interview Friday.
She applauded San Francisco’s action but said more efforts are needed, including from bigger companies like California-based Meta and its subsidiary WhatsApp, which was used to circulate the images in Spain.
While schools and law enforcement agencies have sought to punish those who make and share the deepfakes, authorities have struggled with what to do about the tools themselves.
“These images are used to bully, humiliate and threaten women and girls,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “And the impact on the victims has been devastating on their reputation, mental health, loss of autonomy and, in some instances, causing some to become suicidal.”
“There are a number of sites where we don’t know at this moment exactly who these operators are and where they’re operating from, but we have investigative tools and subpoena authority to dig into that,” Chiu said. “And we will certainly utilize our powers in the course of this litigation.”
The lawsuit brought on behalf of the people of California alleges that the services broke numerous state laws against fraudulent business practices, nonconsensual pornography and the sexual abuse of children. But it can be hard to determine who runs the apps,
Woman charged in plot to extort Elvis’ family, auction off Graceland
The Missouri woman posed as three people during the scheme
By Alanna Durkin Richer and Jonathan Mattise The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Missouri woman has been arrested on charges she orchestrated a brazen scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s family by trying to auction off his Graceland mansion and property before a judge halted the mysterious foreclosure sale, the Justice Department said Friday.
Lisa Jeanine Findley, 53, of Kimberling City, falsely claimed Presley’s daughter borrowed $3.8 million from a bogus private lender and had pledged Graceland as collateral for the loan before her death last year, prosecutors said. She then threatened to sell Graceland to the higher bidder if Presley’s family didn’t pay a $2.85 million settlement, according to authorities.
Finley posed as three different people allegedly involved with the fake lender, fabricated loan documents, and published a fraudulent foreclosure notice in a Memphis newspaper announcing the auction of
Graceland in May, prosecutors said. A judge stopped the sale after Presley’s granddaughter sued.
Experts were baffled by the attempt to sell off one of the most storied pieces of real estate in the country using names, emails and documents that were quickly suspected to be phony.
Graceland opened as a mu-
seum and tourist attraction in 1982 and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A large Presley-themed entertainment complex across the street from the museum is owned by Elvis Presley Enterprises. The announcement of charges came on the 47th anniversary of Presley’s death at the age of 42.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took
Many of the tools are being used to create realistic fakes that “nudify” photos of clothed adult women, including celebrities, without their consent. But they have also popped up in schools around the world, from Australia to Beverly Hills in California, typically with boys creating the images of female
advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportunity to prey on the name and financial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate, attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her personal gain,” said Eric Shen, inspector in charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. An attorney for Findley, who used multiple aliases, was not listed in court documents. A voicemail left with a phone number believed to be associated with Findley was not immediately returned, nor was an email sent to an address prosecutors say she had used in the scheme.
She’s charged with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The mail fraud charge carries up to 20 years in prison. She remained in custody after a brief federal court appearance in Missouri, according to court papers.
In May, a public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13-acre estate said Promenade Trust, which controls the Graceland museum, owes $3.8 million after failing to repay a 2018 loan. Riley Keough, Presley’s granddaughter and an actor, inherited the trust and ownership of the home after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, last year. An attorney for Keough didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on Friday.
Keough filed a lawsuit claiming fraud, and a judge halted
Organizations that have been tracking the growth of AI-generated child sexual abuse material will be closely following the San Francisco case.
The lawsuit “has the potential to set legal precedent in this area,” said Emily Slifer, the director of policy at Thorn, an organization that works to combat the sexual exploitation of children.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family.”
Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspection Service
the proposed auction with an injunction. Naussany Investments and Private Lending — the bogus lender authorities now say Findley created — said Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for the loan, according to the foreclosure sale notice. Keough’s lawsuit alleged that Naussany presented fraudulent documents regarding the loan in September 2023 and that Lisa Maria Presley never borrowed money from Naussany. Kimberly Philbrick, the notary whose name is listed on Naussany’s documents, indicated she never met Lisa Marie Presley nor notarized any documents for her, according to the estate’s lawsuit. The judge said the notary’s affidavit brings into question “the authenticity of the signature.”
The judge in May halted the foreclosure sale of the beloved Memphis tourist attraction, saying Elvis Presley’s estate could be successful in arguing that a company’s attempt to auction Graceland was fraudulent.
GABRIELLE LURIE / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE VIA AP
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu speaks at a public safety town hall meeting in San Francisco last September.
MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO
A Missouri woman has been arrested after being accused of orchestrating an extortion plot involving Graceland and Elvis Presley’s heir.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump, Harris crisscross NC as election heats up
Woman accused of aiding escaped prisoner appears in court
The woman accused of helping an escaped prisoner in North Carolina evade police appeared in court for the first time since her arrest. Jacobia Crisp was charged with aiding and abetting a fugitive and harboring an escapee. She could face more than five years in prison if she is convicted of both charges. Law enforcement says Crisp helped 30-year-old Ramone Alston elude police for multiple days after he escaped from a transport van in Hillsborough. He was later captured in Kannapolis at a hotel on Friday.
New school buses coming to N.C.
NCDMV is showcasing new school buses equipped with new technologies, including safety features, purchased using funds appropriated last year. The agency is using the new technologies and initiatives as part of school bus driver training for 2024. Earlier this year, the state announced it was purchasing 114 electric school buses using federal funds from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Grant Program. Many of these electric school buses are made in High Point at the Thomas Built Buses facility.
Dueling visits showcase the importance of the state to winning the presidency
By Jordan Golson Chatham News & Record
ASHEVILLE — As the 2024 presidential campaign progresses, North Carolina is taking center stage as a crucial swing state. In the last week, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have made significant campaign stops, underscoring the state’s importance in the upcoming electoral contest.
Trump made appearances in Asheville last week and Asheboro on Wednesday, while Harris spoke in Raleigh on Aug. 16. These high-profile
visits highlight North Carolina’s status as a must-win state for both campaigns.
The significance of North Carolina in presidential politics has grown in recent elections. In 2020, Trump narrowly carried the state with 49.93% of the vote compared to Joe Biden’s 48.59%. This razor-thin margin of victory was even slimmer than Trump’s 2016 win when he secured 49.83% of the vote to Hillary Clinton’s 46.17%.
Recent polling data from RealClearPolitics shows a tight race in North Carolina, with an average lead of 1.2 points for Trump over Harris. Individual polls vary widely, with some showing Harris ahead by as much as 2 points, while others have Trump leading by up to 9 points. This volatility in polling data suggests
North Carolina remains very much in play for both parties.
The contrasting nature of the candidates’ events was evident in their recent visits. Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14 drew a capacity crowd of more than 2,000 to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center, with many more supporters waiting outside, unable to gain entry. Attendees had begun lining up in the early morning hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm of Trump’s base in the state.
In contrast, Harris’s event in Raleigh on Aug. 16 was a more intimate affair, primarily composed of invited supporters and members of the press. While smaller in scale, the vice president’s visit emphasized the Democratic campaign’s commitment to competing vigorously in North
Carolina, and she announced some major policy initiatives. Both candidates focused their speeches on national issues rather than state-specific concerns, reflecting the broader themes of their respective campaigns. Trump continued to emphasize economic issues and border security, while Harris highlighted her vision for an “opportunity economy” and plans to lower the cost of living for American families. As the election approaches, North Carolinians can expect to see more visits from both candidates and their surrogates. Campaign events are typically announced only a few days in advance, keeping supporters and the media on their toes. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are well-funded and expected to pour significant resources into advertising and organizing efforts in North Carolina, as well as in other battleground states across the country.
The intense focus on North
The Board of Commissioners discussed providing funding to reimburse local teachers who have had to pay for supplies out-of-pocket
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
CARTHAGE — The Moore County Board of Commissioners will potentially consider providing a bit of kickback to county teachers following the latest local sales tax report provided to the board.
At the board’s Aug. 20 regular business meeting, Board Chairman Nick Picerno urged the board to consider providing supplemental funding to school teachers in order to cover supply costs.
“Every year, we hear the story of local teachers having to go into their own pocket to produce supplies and needs — especially in K-3,” Picerno said.
Picerno’s initial idea is to send the Moore County Schools Board of Education $40,000 to be used to reimburse kindergarten through third grade teachers in public and charter schools in the county for supply costs that were out of pocket.
“Through May 24, we’ve already exceeded what we had budgeted for our current fiscal year,” Picerno said about the current sales tax projection, stating that those funds could be used to provide the money.
While no action was presented for a vote, the issue will more than likely be brought back up at the board’s next regular business meeting.
The board also held two public hearings, with the first being for a rezoning request for 16.83 acres of property located at 3883 Busbee Rd. from Neighborhood Business (B-1) and Rural Agricultural (RA) to Rural Agricultural Conditional Zoning (RA-CZ) in order to renovate the existing property into an assembly hall.
“The UDO defines an assembly hall as a fully or partially enclosed facility or open area used or intended to be used primarily for spectator sports, entertainment sports, exhibitions, public or private gatherings, conferences and conventions with accessory uses such as snack bars, restaurants, retail sales of related items and other supported facilities,” said Planning Director Debra Ensminger. “Assembly halls include the terms amphitheater,
arena, banquet hall, coliseum, convention center, exhibition hall, reception hall, retreat center, sports arena and stadium.”
According to the applicant’s application, the assembly hall would be both an indoor and outdoor space with requested usage for weddings, receptions, auctions, vendor pop-ups, local pottery shows, bridal shows, art shows, senior games, yoga and meditation studio, dance
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
JULIA NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Left, former President Trump, pictured in Asheville last Wednesday, has made two stops in North Carolina in less than a week. Right, on Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made an economic speech in Raleigh and visited a local shop with Gov. Roy Cooper.
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THURSDAY
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The application also states that the developer will provide enough parking to accommodate 200-250 guests.
Following the hearing, the board approved the request — Commissioner Frank Quis was the lone dissent — with a condition to forbid excessive noise following 10 p.m. on any day of the week.
The second hearing was for a text amendment to the UDO in order to add mobile food campuses as a specific planned development use.
Following the hearing, the board approved the request.
Hurricane Ernesto affects NC beaches with rip currents, house collapse
The home lost in Rodanthe was the seventh in the past four years
By Susan Haigh and Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press
EVEN WITH the storm hundreds of miles offshore, Hurricane Ernesto was still being felt Saturday along much of the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, with dangerous rip currents forcing public beaches to close during one of the final busy weekends of the summer season. The storm’s high surf and swells also contributed to coastal damage, including the collapse of an unoccupied beach house into the water along North Carolina’s narrow barrier islands.
Hurricane specialist Philippe Papin from the National Hurricane Center said Ernesto, which made landfall on the tiny British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, was a “pretty large” hurricane with a “large footprint of seas and waves” affecting the central Florida Atlantic coastline all the way north to Long Island in New York.
“That whole entire region in the eastern U.S. coastline are expecting to have high seas and significant rip current threats along the coast,” Papin said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes rip currents as “powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water” that move at speeds of up to 8 feet per second.
In the Outer Banks, the National Park Service confirmed the collapse of the house Friday night in Rodanthe, one of several communities on Hatteras Island. No injuries were reported, the park service reported.
The park service said in a statement that other homes in and near Rodanthe appeared to have sustained damage.
Friday’s was the seventh such house collapse over the past four years on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a 70-mile stretch from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island that’s managed by the federal government. The sixth house collapsed in June.
The low-lying barrier islands are increasingly vulnerable to storm surges and to being washed over from both the Pamlico Sound and the sea.
The park service urged visitors this weekend to avoid the
Rodanthe beaches and surf, adding that dangerous debris may be on the beach and the water for several miles. A portion of national seashore land north of Rodanthe also was closed to the public. Significant debris removal wasn’t expected until early next week after the elevated sea conditions subside, the park service said.
The National Weather Service issued coastal flooding and high surf advisories for the Outer Banks over the weekend and into the early parts of the week. It also warned of significant threats of rip currents, large waves or both reaching north to Virginia and Maryland beaches and south along the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and much of Florida. In Bermuda, businesses were beginning to reopen after the storm passed and “we are on our way back to living a life of normalcy,” said Bermuda Security Minister Michael Weeks on Sunday.
There were no reports of major damage, said Lyndon Raynor of Bermuda’s Disaster Risk Reduction Mitigation Team. BELCO, Bermuda’s power company, said 50% of customers had electricity but more than 8,000 remained without it Sunday.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:
Aug. 22
Moore County Farmers Market
9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 604 W. Morganton Rd. (Armory Sports Complex), Southern Pines
Aug. 23
Shakespeare in the Pines 7:30 to 9 p.m.
James W. Tufts Memorial Park 1 Village Green Rd. West, Pinehurst
Aug. 24
Moore County Farmers Market
8 a.m. to noon Downtown Park, 156 SE Broad St., Southern Pines.
Sandhills Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
James W. Tufts Memorial Park 1 Village Green Rd. West, Pinehurst
Moore County Community Flea Market Fair Barn 200 Beulah Hill Road South, Pinehurst
Aug. 13
The board also approved a contract with BI-TEK for the purchase of new tax support software.
KAMALA from page 1 studio, art competitions and pottery classes.
The contract will total $630,000 in the first year for the purchase and approximately $84,000 in each subsequent year for ongoing licensing, support and maintenance.
“Prior to the pandemic, we began to look at the various alternative software for packages that were better streamlined and would help us overcome some of the challenges that we have,” said Tax Administrator Gary Briggs. “Currently, our system is broken down into three software components that run our system, so we began a process to go out and look at the brightest and the best new software systems that were in place to find a new software package that would place all of our operations on a single, unified platform.”
In addition, the board approved the acceptance of nearly $490,000 in state and federal funding for utilization by the Moore County Health Department.
The Moore County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 3.
Carolina by both campaigns underscores the state’s potential to be a kingmaker (or queenmaker) in the 2024 election. With its 16 electoral votes and recent history of close contests, North Carolina represents a significant
prize for either candidate.
As the campaign season heats up, voters in North Carolina will find themselves at the center of the national political conversation. The frequency of high-profile visits and the deluge of campaign advertising are set to increase, reflecting the state’s pivotal role in determining the next occupant of the White House. With just over two months until Election Day — and absentee and early voting starting sooner than that — the battle for North Carolina’s hearts and minds is well underway.
• Antwone Lee Dionne, 30, was arrested by the Southern Pines Police Department (SPPD) for assault with a deadly weapon on government official/employee.
• Ronald Glenn Hancock, 40, was arrested by the Robbins Police Department for maintaining a vehicle/ dwelling/place for controlled substance.
• Sedarius Lewis Quick, 31, was arrested by the Carthage Police Department for assault by strangulation.
• Valerie Ann Sinclair, 53, was arrested by the Moore County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) for
•
•
•
was arrested by the Aberdeen Police Department (APD) for second degree trespass.
CAPE HATTERAS NATIONAL SEASHORE VIA AP
Debris from an unoccupied beach house in Rodanthe that collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean from winds and waves caused by Hurricane Ernesto.
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
Supporting America’s workforce and lowering your everyday costs
Families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Biden took office.
IF YOU HAD an extra $1,000 in your wallet, what would you do with it?
Unfortunately, that is what “Bidenomics” is costing you every month just to pay for the same goods and services as you did almost four years ago — but it doesn’t have to be that way.
The American Dream to have a good paying job and pursue a better life for your family has always been the cornerstone of what makes our country so great. However, skyrocketing prices, fueled by inflation, continue to make hardworking families struggle to make ends meet.
Right now, the average household in North Carolina spends $119 more a month than they did over 31/2 years ago — that’s just on energy alone. In total, families have spent nearly $26,000 more due to inflation since President Joe Biden took office. From groceries to gas, prices on everything are up over 20% while real average weekly wages are down 3.9%. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris continue to ignore the real harmful impacts of their failed anti-energy policies that are causing this inflation crisis.
House Republicans are working to combat these high prices. We passed legislation to unleash American energy production, reverse Biden’s anti-energy policies, and lower energy costs that continue to burden your family’s pocketbook.
If we are going to restore America’s energy dominance, we must have the workforce to do it — especially with so many goodpaying jobs in the energy sector right here in North Carolina.
That is why last year, I introduced the WORKER Act.
Religious freedom on campus
A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period.
“JEWISH STUDENTS were excluded from portions of the UCLA campus because they refused to denounce their faith. This fact is so unimaginable and so abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom that it bears repeating.”
So wrote Judge Mark C. Scarsi in issuing a preliminary injunction this week to three Jewish students who sued UCLA after they were denied access to portions of the campus last spring.
“UCLA does not dispute this,” Scarsi continued. “Instead, UCLA claims that it has no responsibility to protect the religious freedom of its Jewish students because the exclusion was engineered by third-party protesters. But under constitutional principles, UCLA may not allow services to some students when UCLA knows that other students are excluded on religious grounds, regardless of who engineered the exclusion.”
UCLA is just plain wrong. It was responsible for protecting, and ensuring campus access, to all of the students. Instead, UCLA erected bike rack barriers around the encampment and allegedly hired security guards who allowed protesters to cross into the encampment, but not Zionists. “Are you a Zionist?” news accounts at the time reported that the protestors called out to those seeking passage. Protestors approached the students seeking to cross, leaving them no choice but to turn back.
My bill will supercharge America’s energy workforce by urging the Department of Energy to award grants to stakeholders prioritizing education and training for energy and manufacturing jobs. This legislation would also prioritize investments in improved education and training for underrepresented groups, including minorities, women and veterans, in energy-related jobs. These investments are key to support American workers, lower energy costs and increase energy independence.
The North Carolina Community College system is one of our state’s greatest assets, especially when it comes to workforce development. I was recently able to visit two of the great community colleges in our region and see firsthand how effective high-skilled workforce development programs can be for our community. These programs help ensure both young people and adults have the skills they need to get the jobs that are out there, which will boost productivity for businesses and lower costs while improving families’ quality of life. In Congress, I will continue to support job-training and workforce development programs which open doors for folks in North Carolina and across the country.
Whether it’s lowering energy costs or strengthening our workforce, rest assured I will never stop fighting to ensure a more prosperous America for you and your family.
Richard Hudson represents the 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
What is as astounding as what happened at UCLA is that a debate has ensued, and continued in the court action, as to whether it was antisemitic.
According to newspaper reports, ProPalestinian students and faculty activists at UCLA, including a Faculty for Justice in Palestine group that filed a friend of the court brief in the injunction lawsuit, claimed that the protestors were antiZionist, but not against Jews, and that many protestors were Jewish.
Jews can be antisemites, too. The Jewish plaintiffs in this action, as the judge recognized, “assert that supporting the Jewish state of Israel is their sincerely held religious belief.” The fact that there were some Jews on the side of the protestors does not make their actions any less antisemitic, or abhorrent.
Did the students really need to bring a lawsuit to persuade UCLA to protect all of its Jewish students? Judging from UCLA’s reaction, apparently they did.
The university, through Mary Osako, vice chancellor of strategic communications, complained that “(t)he district court’s ruling would improperly hamstring our ability to respond to events on the ground and to meet the needs of the Bruin community. We’re closely reviewing the judge’s ruling and considering all our options moving forward.”
“Hamstring (their) ability to respond”? What does that mean? They can’t put up bike racks to keep out Jews? They
can’t just protect the protesting bigots while allowing them to target Jews who support the existence of the state of Israel?
UCLA was not the only university that lost sight of its own responsibilities and blinked at verbal and physical harassment. But it was one of the ugliest occupations. The result was that UCLA lost control of its campus when violent protestors moved onto campus to break up the encampment itself. Hatred breeds more violence. What did they expect?
University attorneys also argued that significant changes took place since the encampment last April that mitigated the students’ concerns. The changes included shutting down newer encampments on the same days they went up, creating a new office of campus safety, putting in place a new police chief and strictly enforcing UCLA rules, including rules that prohibit overnight camping. The court was not convinced that these made an injunction unnecessary. Understandably so, given the history. A new school year is beginning. There will be new challenges. The lesson of UCLA is clear. A university’s responsibility is to protect all of its students. Period. No student should ever be denied access to any part of campus because they believe in a Jewish state.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
COLUMN | RICHARD HUDSON
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai
The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn
Shinawatra, daughter of the divisive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Party at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shinawatra to hold the job, after her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of appointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, attended by senior members of parties in the governing
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and lawmakers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dictate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Constitutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after less than a year in office. The
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health authorities said Sunday. The African nation has been roiled by a 16-month conflict and devastating floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cases of cholera have been detected across the county in recent weeks. Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tally since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said.
Cholera is a fast-developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to severe dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering tensions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group ex-
ploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and other urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical facilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation, with famine already confirmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked
northern region of Darfur. Sudan’s conflict has created the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the International Organization for Migration. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and international rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have compounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to local authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major outbreak left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak be -
court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach for appointing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thailand’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push forward key policies such as economic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially mention Srettha’s signature proposal for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criticized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable economic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still intends to push forward a major economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
gan in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces. He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detected cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now working with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to implement a vaccination campaign.
Sudan’s military-controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a government delegation to meet with American officials in Cairo amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a statement the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramilitary group to pull out from people’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
Pinthongta Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
MOORE SPORTS
High school football set to open on Friday
Soccer and volleyball seasons are already underway in Moore County
North State Journal staff
THE MOORE COUNTY high school sports season began last week, with several of the fall teams beginning action.
Boys’ soccer
Union Pines was the first team to hit the field in the 2024‑25 school year. The Vikings went
1 2 in the first week of action, beating Hunt 1 0 on a goal by Kael Jahn. Union Pines then fell
1 0 to Northside Jacksonville and 6 0 to Jacksonville. This week, the Vikings play at Fike, then finally have their home opener, against Rocky Mount. A home game against South Gar ner wraps up the week. North Moore and Pinecrest both get started this week. The Mustangs travel to Southern Lee. Pinecrest travels to Lees ville Road, Lumberton and New Bern before playing its home opener against Overhills.
Pinecrest’s football team huddles up after a 27-7 scrimmage win over Apex at last Friday’s Moore County Jamboree. The games start for real across the county this Friday night.
Volleyball
All three county teams are off to fast starts on the volley ball court. North Moore jumped out to a 3 0 record to start the season, winning on the road at Northwood, Chatham Charter and Father Capodanno. It’s the fastest start for North Moore volleyball in more than 15 years.
The 3 2 w in over North wood to open the year also put the Mustangs at 1 0 in the con ference for the season. North Moore then won in 3 0 sweeps in the other two matchups. This week, the Mustangs open the home schedule with games against Central Carolina Acad emy and a league matchup against Bartlett Yancey.
Pinecrest opened the season with four straight wins, then dropped a pair to enter the week at 4 2. The Patriots beat Ash ley, Sun Valley, Providence Day and Spring Valley, before falling to Woodmont and Aiken. This week, Pinecrest faces Chapel Hill.
Union Pines also opened the season on a winning streak, go ing 3 0 in the first week. The Vi
kings beat Purnell Swett 3 0 then took 3 1 w ins over Jack Britt and Northwood. It’s the best start to a season for Union Pines since 2020. This week, Union Pines trav els to Uwharrie Charter and Purnell Swett before returning home to face Triton.
Football
All three county teams open the season with non conference games on Friday night.
MOORE COUNTY WEEK ONE HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE
Friday Aug. 23, 7 p.m.
Pinecrest Patriots (11-1 in 2023) at Knightdale Knights (2-8 in 2023)
Friday Aug. 23, 7 p.m. North Moore Mustangs (10-3 in 2023) home vs. Carver Yellowjackets (2-9 in 2023)
Friday Aug. 23, 7 p.m.
Union Pines Vikings (2-8 in 2023) at Triton Hawks (6-5 in 2023)
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Brooke Emore
Pinecrest, volleyball
Brooke Emore is a senior on the Pinecrest volleyball team.
The Patriots opened the season with four straight wins and stand at 4-2, entering the week.
Emore leads the team with 36 kills (3.3 per set), eight serving aces (0.7 per set) and a .274 hitting percentage. She is also third on the team in digs and blocks and second in receptions.
Appalachian State, Texas State picked as conference favorites
programs, playing at Diablo Val ley College in California before getting contacted by the Moun taineers.
Appalachian State quarterback Joey Aguilar looks for an open teammate during a game last November. He’s expected to be one of the top offensive players in the Sun Belt this season.
By Peter Iacobelli
Associated Press
The
APPALACHIAN STATE is looking to add another major achievement in the Sun Belt Con ference this season. Maybe more than one. Like another conference ti tle. And perhaps a spot in the ex panded, 12 team College Foot ball Playoff.
Appalachian State was picked to win the Sun Belt’s East Divi sion in preseason selections, led by quarterback Joey Aguilar as expected offensive player of the year. Coach Shawn Clark believes his team is ready for something special.
losing 49 23 at Troy. But they re bounded by defeating Miami (Ohio) 13 9 in the Cure Bowl.
Appalachian State has over come long odds before, most memorably in 2007 when the then FCS program defeated fifth ranked Michigan in the Big House, 34 32. Since joining the Sun Belt, the Mountaineers have won two league crowns, in 2018 and 2019. The Mountaineers enter the season with a lot of momentum after closing 2023 by winning six of their final seven games to go 9 5. Their only loss in that stretch came in the Sun Belt title game,
Clark said his team competed hard all season but did not get the breaks during a 3 4 start.
“I knew we had a great foot ball team, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t bounce your way,” he said. “It was a matter of convey ing to our players that we were so close, and all we have to do is keep working.”
Led by Aguilar, there’s very lit tle convincing to do about App State’s offense. Aguilar set school records with 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, 4,002 yards of to tal offense and 293 completions. Aguilar was overlooked by bigger
“I’ve just got to make the most of this opportunity, and we’ve got some unfinished business we’ve got to take care of next season,” Aguilar said. And maybe add another mile stone season to Appalachian State history.
If not App State, then who?
Texas State, in its second sea son under coach G.J. Kinne, was picked to win the West Division and bring its high powered of fense to the league title game. The Bobcats led the Sun Belt with 36.7 points and 458.5 yards per game last season. Last year’s 8 5 record included a 45 21 win over Rice in the First Responder Bowl, Texas State’s first FBS bowl appearance.
Last year’s top Sun Belt team, James Madison, reached its first bowl game and went 11 2 in
just its second season as an FBS member. The Dukes, who saw coach Curt Cignetti leave for In diana, were picked second in the East behind App State.
Two time defending league champion Troy was picked sec ond in the West. The Trojans lost their coach, too, with Jon Sum rall going to Tulane.
Players to watch
Aguilar is expected to domi nate among offensive players, but he’s not alone. Jordan McCloud, the conference offensive player of the year in 2023 for James Madi son, moved to Texas State, where he’s expected to lead a prolific of fense that also includes Ismail Mahdi, who ran for 1,331 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.
Linebacker Jason Henderson of Old Dominion is the preseason defensive player of the year. Hen derson led the country with 14.2 tackles per game.
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Daughter of former leader becomes new prime minister of Thailand
Paetongtarn Shinawatra was endorsed Sunday by the royal family
By Jintamas Saksornchai
The Associated Press
BANGKOK — Paetongtarn
Shinawatra, daughter of the di visive former leader Thaksin Shinawatra, became Thailand’s prime minister after receiving a royal letter of endorsement Sunday, two days after she was chosen by Parliament following a court order that removed her predecessor.
She replaces another leader from the same Pheu Thai Par ty at the head of a coalition that includes military parties associ ated with the coup that deposed the party’s last government.
Paetongtarn is the third Shi nawatra to hold the job, af ter her billionaire father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Both were removed from office and forced into exile in coups, although Thaksin returned to Thailand last year as Pheu Thai formed a government.
She received the letter of ap pointment in a ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Bang kok, attended by senior mem bers of parties in the governing
coalition and her father, who has no formal role but is widely seen as de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
The father and daughter held hands as they walked in with beaming smiles. Both wore white civil servants’ uniforms,
which are used for royal and state ceremonies.
Paetongtarn thanked the king, the Thai people and law makers, saying she will perform her duties “with an open mind” and “make every square inch of Thailand a space that allows
Thai people to dare to dream, dare to create and dare to dic tate their own future.”
Paetongtarn became prime minister days after the Consti tutional Court removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, af ter less than a year in office. The
Cholera outbreak in Sudan kills at least 22
The ongoing civil war and recent flooding have led to deteriorating conditions
By Samy Magdy The Associated Press
CAIRO — Sudan has been stricken by a cholera outbreak that has killed nearly two dozen people and sickened hundreds more in recent weeks, health au thorities said Sunday. The Afri can nation has been roiled by a 16 month conflict and devastat ing floods.
Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim said in a statement that at least 22 people have died from the disease and that at least 354 confirmed cas es of cholera have been detect ed across the county in recent weeks.
Ibrahim didn’t give a time frame for the deaths or the tal ly since the start of the year. The World Health Organization, however, said that 78 deaths were recorded from cholera this year in Sudan as of July 28. The disease also sickened more than 2,400 others between Jan. 1 and July 28, it said.
Cholera is a fast developing, highly contagious infection that causes diarrhea, leading to se vere dehydration and possible death within hours when not treated, according to WHO. It is transmitted through the in gestion of contaminated food or water.
The cholera outbreak is the latest calamity for Sudan, which was plunged into chaos in April last year when simmering ten sions between the military and a powerful paramilitary group ex
ploded into open warfare across the country.
The conflict has turned the capital, Khartoum, and oth er urban areas into battlefields, wrecking civilian infrastructure and an already battered health care system. Without the basics, many hospitals and medical fa cilities have closed their doors.
It has killed thousands of peo ple and pushed many into star vation, with famine already con firmed in a sprawling camp for displaced people in the wrecked
northern region of Darfur. Sudan’s conflict has creat ed the world’s largest displace ment crisis. More than 10.7 mil lion people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting began, according to the Interna tional Organization for Migra tion. Over 2 million of those fled to neighboring countries.
The fighting has been marked by atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated kill ings that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the U.N. and inter national rights groups.
Devastating seasonal floods in recent weeks have com pounded the misery. Dozens of people have been killed and critical infrastructure has been washed away in 12 of Sudan’s 18 provinces, according to lo cal authorities. About 118,000 people have been displaced due to the floods, according to the U.N. migration agency.
Cholera is not uncommon in Sudan. A previous major out break left at least 700 dead and sickened about 22,000 in less than two months in 2017.
Tarik Jašarević, a spokesman for WHO, said the outbreak be
court found him guilty of a seri ous ethical breach for appoint ing a Cabinet minister who had been jailed for contempt of court after an alleged attempt to bribe a judge.
Paetongtarn is also Thai land’s second female prime minister after her aunt, and she is the country’s youngest leader at 37.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Paetongtarn said she is determined to push for ward key policies such as eco nomic stimulus, improvement for universal health care and promoting cultural “soft power” on the global stage.
She did not initially men tion Srettha’s signature propos al for a digital cash handout of 10,000 baht (about $275) to 50 million citizens to spend at local businesses in order to boost the economy.
The project has been criti cized as an ineffective way to contribute to sustainable eco nomic growth and has faced several hurdles that include its sources of funding.
When pressed by reporters, Paetongtarn said she still in tends to push forward a ma jor economic stimulus for Thailand, but she will need to “continue to listen to opinions.”
She also said she will ask her father for advice when she needs but insisted she would make her own decisions. “I am my own person. I have my own things and my own goals that I have to achieve in the future, but of course all the comments from him (have) value to me,” she said.
gan in the eastern province of Kassala before spreading to nine localities in five provinces. He said in comments to The Associated Press that data showed that most of the detect ed cases were not vaccinated. He said the WHO is now work ing with the Sudanese health authorities and partners to im plement a vaccination cam paign.
Sudan’s military controlled sovereign council, meanwhile, said Sunday it will send a gov ernment delegation to meet with American officials in Cai ro amid mounting U.S. pressure on the military to join ongoing peace talks in Switzerland that aim at finding a way out of the conflict.
The council said in a state ment the Cairo meeting will focus on the implementation of a deal between the military and the Rapid Support Forces, which required the paramili tary group to pull out from peo ple’s homes in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country.
The talks began Aug. 14 in Switzerland with diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emir ates, the African Union and the United Nations attending. A delegation from the RSF was in Geneva but didn’t join the meetings.
SAKCHAI LALIT / AP PHOTO
Pinthongta Shinawatra, left, adjusts the tie of her younger sister and Thailand’s newly elected prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand’s new prime minister Sunday in Bangkok.
SAMIRA HASSAN / AP PHOTO
A woman sorts through floodwaters near her damaged home outside of Abu Hamdan in Northern Sudan earlier this month.
Brenda Etta Smith Grooms
July 22, 1944 –August 13, 2024
Brenda Etta Smith Grooms, 80, of Lumber Bridge, and formerly of Maiden, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 13, 2024, at First Health Hospice in Pinehurst, NC, surrounded by her family.
Brenda was born July 22, 1944, to the late Fred Smith and Daisy Smith Reid. Brenda retired from Ethan Allen in Maiden, NC, after 35 years of dedicated service.
Brenda was predeceased by her husband of 38 years, Jessie A. Grooms; her son, Tony R. McKeehan; granddaughter, Katelyn McKeehan; sister, Mary Sue S. Holler; and brother, Gary D. Smith.
She is survived by her grandson, John “Alex” Grooms (Victoria); her son, Wayne McKeehan; daughters Anne M. Greelman, Tracy M. Painter (Nathan), Jessica G. Page (Eric), and Jana G. Smith (David); her grandsons Joesph Painter, Jasea Painter, Anthony McKeehan, Berkely Smith, William, Nicholas, and Jeff McKeehan, and Triston Greelman; her granddaughters Courtney Page, Andrea McKeehan, Lindsey McKeehan, Andrea Greelman; many greatgrandchildren; her brother, Ricky Smith; a sister, Patricia Figuero; and many special nieces and nephews.
The family will hold a private memorial. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First Health Hospice in Pinehurst, NC.
Care of the family is entrusted to Crumpler Funeral HomeAberdeen.
obituaries
Barbara Guin Motsiner
December 4, 1933 –August 10, 2024
Mrs. Barbara Guin Motsinger, 90 years of age, of Southern Pines, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2024.
Born December 4, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Lauchlin David and Mary Christian Guin, and wife of Fuller T. Motsinger. Barbara is survived by her son, Stuart Motsinger, of Ohio; a granddaughter, Rachael Walsh, and husband Kyle of Louisville, Kentucky; nephew, Michael Straka, and wife Sharon of Vass, N.C.; nieces Christy Straka and Kerry Jones of Wilmington, N.C.; brother-in-law Wade Motsinger and wife Maxine; and sister-inlaw Violet Bullard and husband Pat. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Lauchlin Guin of Southern Pines; her son, David Motsinger, of Colorado, a granddaughter, Alyssa Motsinger of Ohio; a sister, Ruth Straka of N.C., and a brother, Phillip Guin of Florida.
Barbara was a graduate of Southern Pines High School where she was a cheerleader and basketball player. She also graduated from Lees McRae College. She was employed at Memorial Hospital in Charlotte, a member of Community Congregational Church and an avid golfer, skier and excellent cook.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 24th, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Community Congregational Church, Southern Pines, N.C.
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home, Southern Pines.
The bespectacled talk show host set the stage for Oprah Winfrey
By Andrew Dalton
The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — For near ly two decades, Phil Donahue was virtually the only TV talk show host to roam his audience with a microphone and make them an essential part of his show.
His huge cultural influence — especially with the women who tended to watch television during the day in his era — fi nally led to a flock of cultural imitators in the 1980s, includ ing one who would eventually knock him off his perch.
“For a long time I wondered why it took so long for someone to copy us,” Donahue told the Archive of American Televi sion in 2001. “Then along came Oprah Winfrey. It is not possi ble to overstate the enormity of her impact on the daytime tele vision game.”
Donahue died Sunday at age 88 after a long illness.
“I lost my sweetheart last night,” Donahue’s wife, the ac tor Marlo Thomas, wrote Mon day on Instagram, saying she would be stepping away from social media “to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and held him close to their hearts.”
Winfrey, among those pay ing him tribute after his death, was always first to acknowl edge his importance.
“There wouldn’t have been an Oprah Show without Phil Do nahue being the first to prove that daytime talk and women watching should be taken seri ously,” she posted on Instagram on Monday along with a photo of the two embracing. “He was a pioneer. I’m glad I got to thank him for it. Rest in peace Phil.”
By the time “Donahue” went off the air in 1996 after 29 years, nearly 7,000 episodes and 20 Emmy Awards, the day time television landscape was littered with lookalikes.
Winfrey, based in Chica go like Donahue, premiered in 1985 and overtook him for good in the ratings starting in the 1986 87 season, though Donahue often pointed out that she “raised all boats,” lift ing his ratings even while pass ing him.
Later the floodgates tru ly opened to imitators, most of them far trashier, includ ing “The Jerry Springer Show” “Geraldo” and “Jenny Jones.”
It was enough to make Do nahue feel like he no longer be longed.
“The daytime arena changed, the ground moved under my feet,” Donahue told The Associ ated Press in 2002, “and I was glad to leave.”
Both before and af ter Oprah, the prematurely gray and always animated Donahue (Phil Hartman sent up his dra matic body language in a recur ring “Saturday Night Live” im
pression) wielded enormous clout, making daytime at once more serious, more newsy and more salacious as he emerged in the late 1960s amid a sea of game shows, soap operas and more frivolous talk shows.
Memorable “Donahue” guests included feminist ac tivist Gloria Steinem, leftist provocateur Jerry Ruben of the Chicago Seven, Muhammad Ali and Ryan White, the boy who contracted AIDS at age 13 in 1984 and became one of the faces of the disease due in large part to his appearances on “Do nahue.”
After years of lying low, he returned to television to be among the first hosts on MSN BC, who traded heavily on his name in its early promo tion. His show premiered in July 2002 and lasted just sev en months. He stayed semi retired af ter leaving MSNBC, his media appearances mostly one offs on talk shows and TV docu mentaries. His voice appeared as a caller needing psycholo gist’s help on “Frasier” three times in 1999.
MARK LENNIHAN / AP PHOTO
Phil Donahue, pictured in 1993, died Sunday. He was 88.
STATE & NATION
San Francisco goes after deepfake nude images of women, girls
The city filed a lawsuit that takes
By Matt O’Brien and Haleluya Hadero
The Associated Press
NEARLY A YEAR after AI generated nude images of high school girls upended a community in southern Spain, a juvenile court this summer sen tenced 15 of their classmates to a year of probation.
But the artificial intelligence tool used to create the harmful deepfakes is still easily accessi ble on the internet, promising to “undress any photo” uploaded to the website within seconds.
Now a new effort to shut down the app and others like it is being pursued in California, where San Francisco this week filed a first of its k ind lawsuit that experts say could set a prec edent but will also face many hurdles.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shocking number of women and girls across the globe.”
David Chiu, city attorney of San Francisco
children. But it can be hard to determine who runs the apps, which are unavailable in phone app stores but still easily found on the internet.
the images of female classmates that then circulate through so cial media.
In one of the first widely pub licized cases last September in Almendralejo, Spain, a phy sician who helped bring it to the public’s attention after her daughter was among the victims said she is satisfied by the sever ity of the sentence their class mates are facing after a court decision earlier this summer.
But it is “not only the respon sibility of society, of education, of parents and schools but also the responsibility of the digital giants that profit from all this garbage,” Dr. Miriam Al Adib Mendiri said in an interview Friday.
She applauded San Fran cisco’s action but said more ef forts are needed, including from bigger companies like Califor nia ba sed Meta and its subsidi ary WhatsApp, which was used to circulate the images in Spain.
“The proliferation of these images has exploited a shock ing number of women and girls across the globe,” said David Chiu, the elected city attorney of San Francisco who brought the case against a group of widely visited websites tied to entities in California, New Mexico, Es tonia, Serbia, the United King dom and elsewhere.
loss of autonomy and, in some instances, causing some to be come suicidal.”
“These images are used to bully, humiliate and threaten women and girls,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press. “And the impact on the victims has been devastating on their reputation, mental health,
The lawsuit brought on be half of the people of California alleges that the services broke numerous state laws against fraudulent business practic es, nonconsensual pornogra phy and the sexual abuse of
Woman charged in plot to extort Elvis’ family, auction off Graceland
The Missouri woman posed as three people during the scheme
By Alanna Durkin Richer and Jonathan Mattise The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Missouri woman has been ar rested on charges she orches trated a brazen scheme to defraud Elvis Presley’s fami ly by trying to auction off his Graceland mansion and prop erty before a judge halted the mysterious foreclosure sale, the Justice Department said Friday.
Lisa Jeanine Findley, 53, of Kimberling City, falsely claimed Presley’s daughter borrowed $3.8 million from a bogus pri vate lender and had pledged Graceland as collateral for the loan before her death last year, prosecutors said. She then threatened to sell Graceland to the higher bidder if Presley’s family didn’t pay a $2.85 mil lion settlement, according to authorities.
“There are a number of sites where we don’t know at this moment exactly who these op erators are and where they’re operating from, but we have in vestigative tools and subpoena authority to dig into that,” Chiu said. “And we will certainly uti lize our powers in the course of this litigation.”
Many of the tools are being used to create realistic fakes that “nudify” photos of clothed adult women, including celebrities, without their consent. But they have also popped up in schools around the world, from Austra lia to Beverly Hills in Califor nia, typically with boys creating
advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family as an opportu nity to prey on the name and fi nancial status of the heirs to the Graceland estate, attempting to steal what rightfully belongs to the Presley family for her per sonal gain,” said Eric Shen, in spector in charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Crim inal Investigations Group.
An attorney for Findley, who used multiple aliases, was not listed in court documents. A voicemail left with a phone number believed to be associ ated with Findley was not im mediately returned, nor was an email sent to an address prose cutors say she had used in the scheme.
She’s charged with mail fraud and aggravated identi ty theft. The mail fraud charge carries up to 20 years in prison. She remained in custody after a brief federal court appearance in Missouri, according to court papers.
While schools and law en forcement agencies have sought to punish those who make and share the deepfakes, authorities have struggled with what to do about the tools themselves. Organizations that have been tracking the growth of AI gen erated child sexual abuse mate rial will be closely following the San Francisco case.
The lawsuit “has the poten tial to set legal precedent in this area,” said Emily Slifer, the di rector of policy at Thorn, an or ganization that works to combat the sexual exploitation of chil dren.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took advantage of the very public and tragic occurrences in the Presley family.”
Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspection Service
Experts were baffled by the attempt to sell off one of the most storied pieces of real es tate in the country using names, emails and documents that were quickly suspected to be phony.
Graceland opened as a mu
Finley posed as three differ ent people allegedly involved with the fake lender, fabricat ed loan documents, and pub lished a fraudulent foreclosure notice in a Memphis newspa per announcing the auction of Graceland in May, prosecutors said. A judge stopped the sale after Presley’s granddaughter sued.
seum and tourist attraction in 1982 and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A large Presley themed entertainment complex across the street from the museum is owned by Elvis Presley Enter prises. The announcement of charges came on the 47th anni versary of Presley’s death at the age of 42.
“Ms. Findley allegedly took
In May, a public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13 acre estate said Promenade Trust, which controls the Graceland museum, owes $3.8 million af ter failing to repay a 2018 loan. Riley Keough, Presley’s grand daughter and an actor, inherit ed the trust and ownership of the home after the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, last year. An attorney for Keough didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on Friday.
Keough filed a lawsuit claim ing fraud, and a judge halted
the proposed auction with an injunction. Naussany Invest ments and Private Lending — the bogus lender authorities now say Findley created — said Lisa Marie Presley had used Graceland as collateral for the loan, according to the foreclo sure sale notice. Keough’s law suit alleged that Naussany pre sented fraudulent documents regarding the loan in Septem ber 2023 and that Lisa Maria Presley never borrowed money from Naussany. Kimberly Philbrick, the no tary whose name is listed on Naussany’s documents, indi cated she never met Lisa Marie Presley nor notarized any docu ments for her, according to the estate’s lawsuit. The judge said the notary’s affidavit brings into question “the authenticity of the signature.”
The judge in May halted the foreclosure sale of the beloved Memphis tourist attraction, saying Elvis Presley’s estate could be successful in argu ing that a company’s attempt to auction Graceland was fraudu lent.
on AI
GABRIELLE LURIE / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE VIA AP
San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu speaks at a public safety town hall meeting in San Francisco last September.
MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO
A Missouri woman has been arrested after being accused of orchestrating an extortion plot involving Graceland and Elvis Presley’s heir.
