North State Journal Vol. 6, Issue 20 by North State Journal

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 20

WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

the Wednesday

NEWS BRIEFING

North Carolina ranks No. 2 on CNBC beststates-for-business list Raleigh North Carolina has jumped one spot to No. 2 among CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business,” its best performance in the annual ranking since it was introduced in 2007 by the business network. The CNBC study, released on Tuesday, ranks all 50 states on more than 85 different metrics in 10 key categories. The state’s strong economy and workforce recently helped convince Apple to locate its first East Coast corporate campus in the state’s Research Triangle area, according to CNBC. “Despite the pandemic, companies across a diverse array of industries announced major location and expansion projects in North Carolina over the past year,” said Christopher Chung, chief executive officer of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. Virginia took the top overall spot in this year’s CNBC ranking, with 1,587 points overall across all categories. North Carolina was a close second with 1,546 points. The remaining top five states were Utah, Texas and Tennessee. NSJ STAFF

Red Bull and Rauch to create beverage manufacturing hub in Cabarrus County Concord Red Bull and filling company Rauch will partner to build a new beverage-manufacturing, filling and distribution center in Cabarrus County, creating more than 400 new jobs and investing more than $740 million in the City of Concord by 2027. “Global manufacturers need a world-class workforce to support their expansion plans,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “In North Carolina, Red Bull and Rauch have chosen the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast and a resilient business climate with an excellent transportation infrastructure to support their long-term growth.” The companies will develop a state-of-theart campus for beverage manufacturing, can filling and distribution. Cumulatively, this high-tech beverage production hub will span 2 million square feet of vertical integration to include office space at The Grounds at Concord. “The decision by these innovative companies to choose Cabarrus County creates game-changing employment opportunities for our citizens,” said state Sen. Paul Newton (R-Cabarrus). NSJ STAFF

Mystery grows with key suspect in Haiti president killing Port-Au-Prince, Haiti New details that have emerged about a man considered a key player in the killing of Haiti’s president deepened the mystery over the assassination that shocked this nation of more than 11 million people, as it faces an uncertain future. Local authorities identified the suspect as Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 62, a Haitian who once expressed a desire to lead his country in a YouTube video. However, he is unknown in Haitian political circles, and associates suggested he was duped by those really behind the slaying of President Jovenel Moïse in an attack last week that critically wounded his wife, Martine. Twenty-six former Colombian soldiers are suspected in the killing, and 23 have been arrested, along with three Haitians. Charles said five suspects are still at large and at least three have been killed.

ELIANA APONTE | AP PHOTO

Protests in Cuba Anti-government protesters march in Havana, Cuba, Sunday, July 11, 2021. As Cubans facing the country's worst economic crisis in decades took to the streets in droves over the weekend into Monday, July 12, 2021, authorities blocked social media sites in an apparent effort to stop the flow of information into, out of and within the beleaguered nation.

NORTH

STATE

JOURNaL ELEVATE THE CONVERSATION

Parents in NC’s largest school district mobilize against continued masking Taylor: Both CDC and state-level guidance on masks have been ‘consistently inconsistent’ By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Parents in Wake County are mobilizing in an effort to make sure their children will not be compelled to wear masks when the 2021-22 school year begins this fall. Neighboring Harnett County Schools has stated they will not be requiring masks this fall, as have several charter schools and private schools, like Thales Academy. Parents in Wake County are trying to make that happen in their district with a larger goal of ending the practice statewide. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced on July 9 that vaccinated students and education staff no longer would have to wear masks indoors. As there is no vaccine for children under the age of 12 yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the CDC’s new guidance, some argue, creates a medical discrimination situation within K-12 and higher education institutions. Dr. Tracy Taylor of Raleigh has been tracking the mask de-

Truitt statement during meeting says standards and documents lack historical context, specificity

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

20177 52016 $0.50

See MASKS, page A3

By David Larson North State Journal RALEIGH — Current general counsel for the N.C. Administration of Courts Trey Allen spoke with North State Journal on his run for the state Supreme Court and why he believes his background and philosophy make him the right choice for the seat. Allen said his interest in law and politics has been with him as long as he can remember, all the way back to his time growing up in Robeson County when, on his own initiative, he began to read extensively about the nation’s founders. “As a young man, I became fascinated by the founders, including, among others, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison,” Allen said. “That sense of history and that appreciation, even at such a young age, appreciation for their achievement, has always been something that’s stuck with me.” This focus on the founding, and being true to its original intent, followed him to UNC Pembroke, where he took classes in political science, and then to UNC Chapel Hill Law School. “I grew up in a very patriotic household,” Allen said on why he holds the Constitution and American system in such high regard. “My dad is a 30-year veteran of the Air Force, much of that in the Air Force Reserves. I grew up being taught, ‘Love God and love your country.’” Allen said that after law school, he decided to join the Marine Corps, partly because of his family’s military history and patriotism. But also because he wanted a challenge. “When I was in law school, I realized that if I was going to do any military service, that this was probably my last opportunity to do that, and I joined the Marine Corps because the Marine Corps promised to challenge me. I was looking for a challenge, and I will say, the Marine Corps lived up to that promise.” Allen spent time in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and he was also deployed as a judge advocate to Okinawa, Japan. That’s when a man who would be very influential in his professional career offered him his next big opportunity — to be a state

State Board of Education approves support documents for controversial studies standards

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

bate since the start of the pandemic. She says that both CDC and state-level guidance on mask wearing have been “consistently inconsistent.” “This medical discrimination is creating an opportunity for other students, staff, and admin to bully those who are wearing masks about the vaccine,” said Taylor of granting privileges to the vaccinated over the unvaccinated. “It essentially puts a target on their back when students are the least at-risk cohort.” Taylor added that some students, staff, and admin may not be able to get the vaccine, and asked, “Should they wear a mask forever?” She said that the CDC’s recent mask guidance emphasizes flexibility at local levels. That in turn should open the door for the Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to update the Strong Schools NC Public Health Toolkit to allow local districts to change their mask policies, she says. “There have been multiple studies showing adverse effects and pathogens on masks worn by children, but to date, there has yet to be a study done showing the positive impact of long-term daily mask wearing by children

Trey Allen discusses run for NC Supreme Court

RALEIGH — At its July scheduled meeting, the State Board of Education (SBOE) voted to approve documents that support the revised social studies standards for grades

six through 12. The vote was 6-5 down party lines, with all Democrats voting in favor and all Republicans voting against them. The vote this time around was minus member Donna Tipton-Rogers, who voted in favor of the new standards earlier this year. The supporting documents for grade K-5 were presented and approved in June. During the meeting, state Superintendent Catherine Truitt read a statement, a copy of which

was obtained by the North State Journal. The statement begins by thanking the Department of Public Instruction’s social studies standards team for its work before describing issues with the revisions and documentation. “As superintendent, one of the things I’m charged with is improving the quality of education for students and implementing strategies that will enhance student outcomes. However, I can’t say in good See EDUCATION, page A2

Supreme Court clerk back in his home state. That man was Paul Newby, now the state Supreme Court’s chief justice. “He interviewed me by phone from Okinawa, and I was fortunate enough to be offered a position to clerk for him,” Allen said. “It was a great education in how our state’s highest court functions. It was also an education in how a conservative judge goes about trying to remain faithful to the original understanding of the Constitution and to the text and legislative intent of the laws when deciding cases.” And this conservative philosophy, which he holds in common with Newby, has remained with him. “I would say broadly that I’m a constitutional conservative, and when it comes to interpreting the Constitution — the federal Constitution or the state Constitution — what that means is that when confronting an issue, you try to follow the original understanding of what the constitutional provision at issue meant,” Allen said. “You’re guided by the provision as it was understood when ratified.” After clerking for Newby, Allen spent almost seven years in private practice in Raleigh, working in education law and arguing constitutional cases in front of both federal and state courts. He then joined the faculty at UNC Chapel Hill School of Government, where he spent another seven years teaching on local government and giving legal advice to officials across the state. UNC Chapel Hill honored Allen as Coates Distinguished Term Associate ProfesSee ALLEN, page A2

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

A2 WEDNESDAY

THE WORD: LOVE, TRUTH AND OBEDIENCE

7.14.21

2 JOHN 1:6-7

#291

And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 6

“Liberty's story” Visit us online nsjonline.com North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Cory Lavalette Managing/Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Emily Roberson Business/Features Editor David Larson Associate Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor

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EDUCATION from page A1 faith that I believe these standards do either,” Truitt said in her statement. “And while it would certainly be easier for me to take a seat and clasp my hands rather than allow this conversation to continue, I feel it would be a disservice to our students. “As they are written, there is no historical content provided in them,” Truitt wrote. “And while there is a menu of topics provided within the unpacking documents, there is no specificity on what the non-negotiable historical events are that students are expected to learn. “There are other challenges presented in our standards as well, including the standards’ organization around theme versus chronology. This approach does not serve younger students well,” Truitt told the board. “Students cannot examine relationships among events or explain historical causality without a strong understanding of chronology.”

ALLEN from page A1 sor in recognition of his teaching and scholarship. “The work of a school-of-government professor has some real parallels with appellate court work,” Allen said. “The faculty there provide guidance to government officials around the state on the legal subjects on which they specialize. And so when you get those requests for guidance, you examine the law, you try to the best of your ability to give an unbiased take on what it requires. And that’s what a good judge does.” Allen is on leave from UNC Chapel Hill after Newby offered him another job — as general counsel for the Administration of Courts (AOC). “As the general counsel for our state’s courts system, I head an office of 10 lawyers,” Allen said, describing his new position. “We do an array of things. But one of the most important things that we do is to provide legal guidance to judges and other court officials around the state. The Administrative Office of the Courts, of course, tries to implement the chief justice’s vision. One of the things that we’ve been working on since I started in January is to help reopen the court system; that’s been a major priority for the chief justice, so it’s been a major priority for the Administrative Office of the Courts.” Allen said in working to reopen the courts, his office is looking at many angles, including to what degree the use of remote proceedings is violating constitutional rights, like the right to confront the witnesses against you. On his ongoing professional relationship with Newby, and

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“Saint John the Evangelist on Patmos” by Hieronymus Bosch (circa 1489) is a panel painting in the Painting Gallery Gemäldegaleri in Berlin.

The superintendent asked that the board grant her “the opportunity to help re-shape these standards to ensure specificity, and to guarantee that North Carolina students walk away having learned the lessons of our past in order to help pave a brighter future for all.” Board Chairman Eric Davis responded by saying there may be “potential” to improve the standards but that “whether this potential merits further work is subject to the board’s judgment and approval.” Truitt expanded on her comments during the board meeting in a statement to NSJ. “The social studies standards we have passed do not provide assurance that students will graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to both love and critique our history. As they are written, there is no historical content provided in them,” Truitt told NSJ. “There is no specificity on what the historical events are that students are expected to learn.” “Additionally, there are other

whether he has been supportive of Allen’s decision to run, Allen said, “So, I regard him as a mentor and a friend, and he has encouraged me over the years to think about running for the court.” Whether it was this encouragement from the chief justice or his lifelong passion for the law, Allen is running for the state’s highest court and says he is seeing momentum out on the trail. “It’s a big state, and we have lots of Republican organizations, and I’ve been going to as many events as I can as part of my campaign,” Allen said. “For someone who’s just gotten into politics, I’ve been humbled and amazed by the number of people who have expressed interest in my campaign, and a willingness to be supportive.” He said Republicans are waking up to the fact that the legal landscape is increasingly being determined by the courts, rather than the democratic process. “People should support me if they want a Supreme Court that’s going to stick to its role of applying and not making the law if they want a Supreme Court that is going to be bound by the Constitution as originally understood and if they want a Supreme Court that will not function like legislator in black robes but instead when interpreting statutes will do their best to follow the intent of the legislature,” he said. Allen also wanted people to know that “faith and family are core to who I am.” He said one of the reasons that he and his wife, Teryn, who was his high school sweetheart, homeschool their five children is to pass on their Christian faith and values to them.

challenges presented in our standards, including the standards’ organization around theme versus chronology. This approach does not serve students well and makes it more difficult for newer teachers to devise a course,” said Truitt. The revised standards approved by the board in February are scheduled to go into effect for the 202122 school year; however, at least one district so far has voted not to move forward with the changes. At its June 14 meeting, the Moore County School Board voted unanimously on a resolution asking lawmakers and the state board of education to delay implementation of the revised standards until 2022-23. The resolution includes a provision that if no action is taken by those state-level officials, the Moore board reserves the right to delay implementation unilaterally. Also in June, the House passed a bill delaying implementation of the standards for one year. The bill, Senate Bill 654, is now sitting in a conference committee after the Senate failed to concur with the

We are taking a look at the shortest books of the Bible. Second John precedes Third John in the Bible but follows it on the list of shortest books in the Bible. With 13 verses and one chapter, the second book of John has a few more words than Third John in the King James Version. The Second Epistle of John is a letter to “the elect lady and her children” but has been widely interpreted as a letter to the church as a whole, with the elect lady serving as a metaphor for the church. Similar to Third John, the second epistle warns early Christians of deceivers and false teachings. This short book also teaches about love, truth, obedience, and the relationship of the three. The book reinforces Christ’s teachings that love is the foundation of God’s commandments. Second John again teaches us to love God and love each other.

House. Earlier this year in February, the revisions to the standards drew heavy criticism from both members of the board as well as from the public. Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson was particularly vocal in his opposition to the revisions. He took issue with the overall tone of the revisions, which included portraying the United States in a negative way and being too focused on race. “I think they are politically charged. I think they are divisive, and I think they, quite frankly, smack of a lot of leftist dogma,” Robinson said during the board’s Jan. 27 meeting. Criticisms included the infusion of social justice concepts into the revisions, such as the use of “Gender Identity.” Robinson was not alone in his opposition. A petition opposing the revisions hit 22,000 signatures by Feb. 2 and over 30,000 signatures prior to the board›s final vote. Additionally, in an interview with NSJ in May, Truitt also expressed her

opposition to Critical Race Theory. “I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding about what Critical Race Theory is. It is not a curriculum, it is not a program,” said Truitt in the interview. “It is an idea and a theory, pieces of which sometimes permeate everything from a comment that an adult in a school may make all the way down to a particular assignment that is given or to a training that could be given by a district.” She also expressed her support for House Bill 324, which doesn’t mention Critical Race Theory by name, but rather protects students from being subjected to the promotion of racial or sexual discrimination in the classroom. The bill bars the promotion of concepts such as one race is superior to another, that one’s race or sex should cause individual psychological anguish or discomfort, and the “belief that the United States is a meritocracy is racist or sexist or was created by members of a particular race or sex to oppress members of another race or sex.”

In this Jan. 8, 2021, file photo, California Gov. Gavin Newsom gestures during a news conference in Sacramento, Calif.

RICH PEDRONCELLI | AP PHOTO

Judge: Newsom can’t be listed as Democrat on recall ballot The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom can’t put his Democratic Party affiliation on the ballot voters see when they decide whether to remove him after his campaign missed a deadline to submit his affiliation to California Secretary of State Shirley Weber for the Sept. 14 recall election. Newsom’s campaign said it was inadvertent and asked Weber to allow the affiliation to appear. She said the issue needed to go to a judge, so Newsom filed a lawsuit. Newsom’s Republican opponents criticized the move as an attempt to change rules everyone else must follow. Newsom’s attorney, Thomas Willis, and an attorney for Weber both argued during an hourlong hearing that Newsom merely missed an

arbitrary, harmless filing deadline and that it is in the voters’ interest to know his party preference. Sacramento County Superior Court Judge James Arguelles said his decision came down to whether there are reasons to look beyond the Newsom-approved law that required the governor to submit his party affiliation to the state’s top election official by February 2020. He determined that the law “unambiguously precludes party information from appearing on a recall ballot where the elected officer fails timely to make the designation.” It’s unclear if the lack of a party designation will have any practical impact. Newsom is well known, having held statewide office for a decade as lieutenant governor, governor, and previously was San Francisco’s mayor. Previous recall targets weren’t

allowed to list their political party, but Democrats who control the state Legislature changed that in 2019 after a state senator from their party was recalled. Last month, Newsom signed a law that again changes the recall rules, this time to speed up the election. Democrats believe the state’s reopened economy and low coronavirus case numbers put Newsom in a better position than when the recall gained momentum during the pandemic’s darkest days last winter. The recall was fueled by frustration over Newsom’s coronavirus shutdown orders and anger after it was learned the governor attended a party with lobbyist friends at a posh restaurant last fall when he was forcing Californians to stay home. The election is set for Sept. 14. The two-part ballot will first ask voters if they want to remove Newsom from office and, if so, who should replace him. The answers to the second question are only counted if more than 50% of people say yes to the first.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Former child-care assoc. president says NC school districts unfairly favored in Pre-K Current budget funds Pre-K program at $68.3 million in recurring funds for fiscal years 2021-22 and 2022-23

MARY ALTAFFER | AP PHOTO

In this May 18, 2021, file photo, fifth graders wearing face masks in a classroom. MASKS from page A1 in terms of decreasing the spread of COVID-19 in an education setting,” said Taylor. A June report to the State Board of Education by Duke University’s ABC Science Collaborative claimed that wearing masks was the reason for the lack of virus transmission in the state’s K-12 schools, yet the report failed to give any substantive data backing that claim. The report also made a major reversal on social distancing, claiming that “Distance did not predict infection,” and recommended eliminating quarantining procedures. Critics, including Duke researcher Tom Nicholson writing in a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, have pointed out a major flaw in ABC Science Collaborative’s assumption masks were the cause of low transmission: no control group. “The researchers might as well have attributed the low COVID-19 rate in schools to wearing shoes,” Nicholson wrote of the ABC Science Collaborative’s June report. Taylor said that the ABC Collaborative’s findings were akin to saying, “Incidence was lower in schools than in the community, so masks worked.” She added that the burden of proof on the group was to show masks slowed spread, but they didn’t do that since there was no control group. A report published earlier this year, in which the ABC Science Collaborative took part, specifically looked at 11 North Carolina school districts and almost 100,000 students and staff over nine weeks of in-person instruction. Researchers found “extremely limited within-school secondary transmission of SARS-CoV-2, as determined by contact tracing.” The study, which also claimed the use of 6-foot social distancing and use of masks were key to low transmission, found “No instances of child-to adult transmission of SARS-CoV-2 were reported within schools.” Studies raising concerns about

increased carbon dioxide levels from daily long-term mask wearing such as that occurring in schools are starting to gain attention. On the same day that the ABC Collaborative published its report, the Journal of JAMA Pediatrics also published a study of the levels of carbon dioxide being inhaled by children wearing masks all day. The findings included high and unacceptable levels of carbon dioxide in inhaled air after just a brief amount of time. The JAMA study concluded with the suggestion that “decision makers weigh the hard evidence produced by these experimental measurements accordingly, which suggest that children should not be forced to wear face masks.” Amy Marshall, the president of the Carolina Teachers Alliance, is also concerned about continued masking in schools and has created a petition to allow schools to end the practice, addressed to NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen and Gov. Roy Cooper. “The idea behind the petition was to convince Gov. Cooper and Secretary Cohen to lift the mask mandate based on the science data,” said Marshall. “The science and data just do not support keeping kids masked all day in school.” Marshall said that the risk of children becoming severely ill or dying from this virus are so small that it does not merit compelled masking for up to 11 hours a day for students who partake of aftercare options. “Kids are not the drivers of COVID-19 spread,” said Marshall. And she’s correct, at least according to statements made by NCDHHS state health director and chief medical officer Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson to the N.C. State Board of Education in fall of 2020. Tilson said children “have relatively low rates of infection and are not driving our increas-

Hunter Biden paintings pose ethical challenge for president By Alexandra Jaffe The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The White House has established an arrangement that would allow President Joe Biden’s son Hunter to sell his artwork for tens of thousands of dollars without knowing the identity of the purchaser, an agreement established in attempt to avoid any potential ethical concerns surrounding his sales. Under the arrangement, a private art-gallery owner will set prices for his work and will handle all bidding and sales, but will not share any information about buyers or prospective buyers with Hunter or anyone in the administration. The deal was first report-

ed by The Washington Post. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the gallerist would reject “any offer out of the normal course” and that the administration believes the agreement “provides quite a level of protection and transparency.” A person familiar with the arrangement noted that it requires the art dealer selling Hunter’s work to turn down any buyer or offer that seems out of the ordinary, including any that comes in above the asking price. The person was not authorized to discuss the arrangement publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. “After careful consideration, a system has been established that allows for Hunter Biden to work in

es,” and that they were “not seeing schools as a big driver of cases.” Those statements continued to be the case throughout much of the rest of the 2020-21 school year. Taylor concurs with the lowrisk for children. She cited information from the DHHS website that for children ages zero to 17, the survival rate for COVID-19 is 99.9967 percent — a case fatality rate of only .0033 percent. Taylor also expressed frustration that government entities do not include natural immunity in their policies and decision making. She said that if a student has already had COVID-19, they have antibodies, T- and B-cell immunity and shouldn’t have to be vaccinated or masked. “Natural immunity is just not part of the discussion,” said Taylor. “And it should be.” Both Taylor and Marshall are backers of the legislation targeting masks in schools and the potential for a legal suit. Senate Bill 173, the Free the Smiles Act, would allow districts to make masking optional. The House passed the bill; however, the Senate failed to concur and sent the bill back to committee for further discussion. Chair of the Senate Health Committee Sen. Joyce Krawiec (R-Forsyth) said they wanted more discussion about “further protections and input from parents in children’s health decisions.” Marshall said one suggestion from parents would be to require parental consent to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Currently, children ages 12 and up can be offered the vaccine without such consent from a guardian or parent. Citing a mask policy map created by information aggregator site Burbio, Marshall noted that currently only 10 states, including North Carolina, have a mask mandate in place for K-12 students. The other nine states are California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, New Mexico, New York, Virginia and Washington.

his profession within reasonable safeguards,” Psaki told reporters. “Of course he has the right to pursue an artistic career, just like any child of a president has the right to pursue a career.” It marks one of the first high-profile tests of the president’s commitment to supposed more-stringent ethics rules for his family and administration officials than his predecessor. On his first day as president, Biden signed an executive order requiring stricter ethics commitments from all administration personnel, but Hunter’s private dealings have drawn much scrutiny in the past, with some critics expressing concerns that he sought to profit from the use of his father’s name during his lobbying work and work with a Ukrainian energy company. Hunter Biden has now shifted his focus to the art world. According to an interview in Artnet, Georges Bergès, the art dealer that will sell his work, plans to host a private viewing for the president’s son in Los Angeles and an exhibition in New York. The paintings cost anywhere from $75,000 for a piece on paper to half a million

supportive process than just an application,” said Campbell. “DCDEE should develop providers to do it.” Transparency also is lacking within county committees, according to Campbell. An example By A.P. Dillon he gave came from a time when he North State Journal served on a Pre-K committee in RALEIGH — According to Gaston County. One of the meetKevin Campbell, a former pres- ings he was involved in had video ident of the North Carolina Li- that was supposed to be posted to censed Child Care Association and the Gaston County school system’s former president of Smart Kids website; however, it wasn’t a vidChild Development Center, there eo, it was audio only, which made are serious governance and trans- it hard for listeners to follow the parency issues with the state’s ear- meeting proceedings. Another transparency issue was ly education program. In a previous story, Campbell obtaining documentation from a cited governance and responsi- subcommittee. Campbell said that bility issues with how N.C. Pre-K after making repeated requests, is run by the N.C. Department DCDEE and the school district wouldn’t send him the of Health and Hurequested information man Services Division but instead directed of Child Development him to come into the and Early Education All I wanted office to view the doc(DCDEE). uments. Among some of those is a copy of a Campbell recountissues is the appearpublic record ed a similar situation ance that some school obtaining meeting districts also seem to be and I never minutes from a Pre-K “poaching” both teach- did... that's committee meeting in ers and Pre-K students Mecklenburg Counfrom private providers. where I really ty. DCDEE directed Campbell said it varies have a problem Campbell to ask the county by county, but Charlotte-Mecklenthat in some counties with the “almost 100% of these Division of Child burg School District to obtain the minutes. kids go into the school Development, “I went to Charsystem.” lotte-Mecklenburg “The school systems because it's Schools, they made me poach,” said Campbell. their program, talk to their attorney,” “It’s kind of like saying said Campbell. “The you’re taking our four- they should attorney wouldn’t talk year-olds, and you don’t be responsive to me. So, my attorhave enough classney talked to them and rooms for your own to providers said, what’s going on?” kids; you have trailers if there's Campbell said he out in the parking lot.” a conflict continued to get the “Several years ago, I run around, including lost a classroom,” said at a local stonewalling from the Campbell. “There were committee" Division of Child Deno issues with it, they velopment. He shared just took it away from part of an email, which me because they said Kevin Campbell he felt proved his point, there wasn’t a demand. from the Amber Davis, The local committee, based on a recommendation by the assistant attorney general repthe contract administrator and resenting the Division of Child Dethe school district, moved it to the velopment and Early Education. “While I understand the buypublic elementary school just two blocks away and then they turn er’s request for some assurances regarding an intended NC Pre-K around and hired my teachers.” As an example of a more bal- contract, and Mr. Campbell’s drive anced approach between district to obtain it for them, that assurand outside providers, Campbell ance cannot come from the Divicited Wake County, saying he has sion. CMS is who will enter into heard positive things about their the agreement,” wrote Davis. model. But he said they have had “There is no privity of contract be“lots of problems in Mecklenburg.” tween Mr. Campbell and the DiviThe apparent lack of uniformi- sion and there will not be any privty across the counties in the appli- ity of contact with the new owner cations and approvals for Pre-K in terms of operating an NC Pre-K site.” classrooms can also be an issue. Campbell said that he believes “Each local committee can determine their own policy,” said Davis’ response illustrates how Campbell. “And in some counties, DCDEE has ducked responsibility the conflict-of-interest statement for the program and is giving too says simply that if you have a con- much authority to the school disflict of interest, you can’t speak or tricts. “All I wanted is a copy of a pubvote.” He also says outside providers lic record and I never did get that are underrepresented and seem to one,” Campbell said. “And see, rarely have a voice on the county that’s where I really have a problem with the Division of Child Decommittees. In one instance, he says as far as velopment, because it’s their prohe knows, those providers are not gram, they should be responsive given a chance to appeal or revise to providers if there’s a conflict at a local committee. They should step if an application has errors. “It really should be a much more in and fix it or not.”

PATRICK SEMANSKY | AP PHOTO

In this March 26, 2021, file photo, Hunter Biden carries his son Beau before boarding Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. dollars for large-scale paintings, the dealer said. That’s considerably more than a typical up-and-coming artist without much experience or many sales under his belt, and it’s one of the reasons Richard Painter, a

White House ethics lawyer during the George W. Bush administration, says he’s uneasy about the arrangement. “I’m baldly surprised at the pricing,” he said. “That’s part of the appearance problem.” The concern, he said, is that regardless of who purchases the paintings, such high prices suggest Hunter Biden is profiting off his father’s name. Painter worried that foreign governments could fund the purchase through a buyer, or lobbyists could purchase the painting to win favor with those in Biden’s orbit, even if Hunter and his father don’t know the buyer’s identity. Painter said ideally, Hunter would have waited to sell his paintings until his father left office, to avoid any appearance of impropriety — but since he’s turning to this avenue to make a living, the buyers and prices for each painting should be disclosed and recused from any work with the administration. “I would not have chosen the secrecy route. I would have gone with the transparency route,” he said.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Murphy to Manteo

NC will add a 10th area code this decade The North Carolina Utilities Commission approved a new overlay area code — 472 — for the existing 910 area code in June, covering areas currently served by the 910 area code. The growth in numbers means that the numbers available in the 910 area are predicted to run out by the middle of 2023. In anticipation of that, new numbers created in late 2022 and early 2023 will carry the new area code. The new area code for the southeastern part of the state is in response to the growth in the number of new residents, businesses and cell phones, according to an Associated Press report. Before the change happens, all calls within the existing 910 area code will transition to 10-digit dialing. Calls within the 910 area code will require that the caller dial the full number, including area code. Existing numbers will not change. In the long run, area codes 910 and 472 will operate in what’s called an “overlay,” meaning both will be available in the same geographic area.

WEST

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Burke County A man mistakenly released from jail after using another inmate’s name has been found hiding in an attic in his hometown. Burke County Sheriff’s Office said the 27-year-old man was found in the attic of a Morganton home and taken into custody. The man was released from Burke County Jail on Friday after he responded to another inmate’s name. A half hour later, the jail realized what had happened and notified supervisors. The man was in custody for failure to appear, possession of schedule I controlled substance and probation violation and considered armed and dangerous. AP

Casino massage therapist avoids prison on sex charges Swain County Anthony Brian Robinson, 45, of Clyde, agreed to a plea bargain on charges that he sexually assaulted two clients while working as a massage therapist at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. He was accused of assaulting women in April and August 2018. Robinson entered an Alford plea which will allow him to avoid prison time. He received two suspended 18-month sentences. He will serve probation and must register as a sex offender. CASINO.ORG

919 984

704 980

Counties originally within the 919 area code

PIEDMONT

Yancey County Rescue crews were able to free Gracie, an Australian Shepherd who got stuck in a mountain culvert. The three-year-old dog, who belongs to Becky Rowe Smith, crawled into a crevasse that was 25 feet long and 15 inches wide and became stuck. The family’s other dog, Emmie, helped locate Gracie, and rescuers used the jaws of life to get Gracie free. WLOS

Grant to help locate site for industrial park Mitchell County A partnership between Mitchell and Yancey counties will conduct a search to find an appropriate site for a proposed new industrial park. The project received a grant of $41,500 from the USDA Rural Business Development Grant Program to evaluate potential sites. The money will be used to engage the services of an economic development consultant to help choose a location. OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY ONLINE

Stokes County An unidentified man was killed in a home explosion in which investigators say someone was trying to make fireworks. The Stokes County Sheriff’s Office said firefighters were called to a house fire in the town of King. The firefighters found a small fire at the home and extinguished it quickly, but a search of the home found a man who authorities said had died as a result of injuries caused by the fire. The Stokes County fire marshal said investigators found an unknown substance found to be consistent with chemicals used in making fireworks.

Richmond County A Superior Court judge put a newspaper editor behind bars after one of his reporters used an audio recorder at a murder trial — a punishment the paper considers excessive. Judge Stephan Futrell sentenced Gavin Stone, news editor of the Richmond County Daily Journal, to five days in jail. Stone was released the next day but still faces the possibility of more time. Brian Bloom, the paper’s publisher, acknowledged his reporter shouldn’t have had the recorder in court because it’s not allowed, but criticized the judge’s move to imprison an editor for a minor infraction committed by a colleague.

Iredell County Six people are facing charges in connection to two possible drive-by shootings that left an 8-year-old girl dead and two other children injured in Statesville. The charged teens range in age from 17 to 19. They face counts that include murder, conspiracy and discharging a weapon into occupied property causing serious bodily injury. The two possible driveby shootings happened within the same neighborhood on June 28. The 8-year-old Ah’Miyahh Howell and a 7-year-old boy were shot around 7 p.m.. While investigating that incident, police heard gunshots nearby. A 10-year-old child was injured.

Fayetteville State clears tuition debt for nearly 1,500

Woman reels in wallet from 1980s while fishing, seeks owner Bladen County A woman is searching for a man who lost his wallet in a lake in the mid-1980s. Sarah Foor and her husband were fishing Saturday at Jones Lake State Park near Elizabethtown when she reeled in the wallet. Inside she found a faded driver’s license, a library card and an array of expired credit cards. It also held a senior photo that’s dated from the 1983-84 school year. The wallet had 50 cents inside, but she still considers it a treasure. AP

Cumberland County Fayetteville State University has used pandemic relief funds to clear $1.6 million in tuition debt for nearly 1,500 students. The historically black school utilized money from the federal American Rescue Plan. Signed into law in March, it provided nearly $40 billion to higher education institutions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. FSU cleared tuition that was not covered by federal student grants or loans. The school also plans to use $4.7 million in federal funds to provide free summer classes to 1,400 undergraduates through the summer of 2023.

RALEIGH — National spokesperson and director of black media affairs for the Republican National Committee Paris Dennard talked to North State Journal about parents frustrated with Critical Race Theory and the failings of the Biden administration on vaccinations. Dennard has been a long-time political commentator and is the founding principal of PD Consulting Group. He served in the offices of political affairs, legislative affairs and public liaison and as the White House director of black outreach under former President George W. Bush from 2005-2009. On the topic of media claiming “woke” activism and Critical Race Theory in schools is a political “boogeyman” invented by Republicans, Dennard pointed to parents as the root of the pushback. “I think ultimately parents are growing more and more concerned about the direction that a lot of public schools and school districts are taking,” said Dennard. He added that “it’s not even limited to public schools,” noting that some private schools are involved in ensuring “more radical progressive or ‘woke’ thought and ideology is placed upon the students.” Dennard continued, saying parents don’t want “editorialized education” from school districts and so-called “woke” activists in the school systems. He said parents want to be the “arbiters of truth and value and of morals and of cultural issues that are important to them.” “When you see the condition of a lot of public schools today, when you have a focus that is not on making sure their child can read at grade level, but making sure that their children are, from a Critical Race Theory standpoint, being taught that there is an ‘oppressed’ and ‘oppressor,’ and that the foundation of

NC Commerce awards grants to local workforce board for youth initiatives

Durham officer charged with kidnapping, sex offense in Apex Durham County A Durham police officer has been charged with kidnapping and a sex offense in Apex. Joseph Daniels was arrested on charges related to an incident reported to Apex police on June 16. He is charged with first-degree kidnapping, second-degree sexual offense and sexual battery. Daniels, 35, joined the police department in 2011 and is assigned to the organized crime division. He was initially placed on administrative duty with pay, but police later announced that after a preliminary review he is now on administrative leave without pay.

Gates County The North Carolina Department of Commerce has awarded a grant to support an innovative youth workforce development project. The Northeastern Workforce Development Board (Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hyde, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell and Washington counties) got a $100,000 grant to support the “E3 Initiative: Enroll More Youth, Expose Youth to Local Careers & Ensure Stronger Completion Rates.” It encourages youth to seek employment within growing career fields. The board plans to increase young people’s exposure to local job opportunities and provide focused mentoring to foster a deeper sense of community.

Police accuse man in fatal hit-and-run Dare County A man has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run. Kill Devil Hills police say Corey M. Feickert, 36, was crossing an intersection on U.S. Highway 158 when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Donald S. McClanning, 55. Both men are from Kill Devil Hills. Feickert was taken to a local hospital, where he died. Investigators determined that McClanning was impaired and charged him with driving while impaired and felony death by motor vehicle.

our country is rooted in slavery and evil, and that this is a country that is bad and racist.” “Those alleged qualities are things that parents are rejecting, especially in North Carolina,” said Dennard. He went on to say parents are “rightfully concerned,” and cited examples of Critical Race Theory and “whiteness in education spaces” playing out in Wake County, the state’s largest school district. With continued talk of masks in schools this fall and a push to get vaccinated on the mind of a lot of people, Dennard says that the Biden administration has given conflicting information and has failed on both fronts. “I think that the Biden administration has botched this entire process of educating the American people and having them have confidence in where we are in terms of vaccines,” said Dennard, adding that the Biden/Harris campaign spent “months on end trying to dissuade people about the impact and efficacy of the vaccine that came about because of the Operation Warp Speed under the Trump administration.” “The parents are upset with the Democrats, and those in Congress, and in the White House, and the Senate using children as guinea pigs — as scapegoats — on their policies,” said Dennard. “And that’s the issue with Critical Race Theory, with these vaccines, and these masks, and when it comes to all these other things like indoctrination; they’re tired of it.” “Ultimately, a lot of North Carolina is going to look at where they are in terms of how things have been under Democrat Leadership,” said Dennard. “And that’s going to look at Critical Race Theory, they’re going to look at inflation, gas prices, at fentanyl coming into their community because of the open border situation, and they’re going to look at high crime and the increased crime.”

US House Republican leader makes six-figure donation to NCGOP

NSJ AP

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

6 charged after shootings leave girl dead, 2 boys injured

RNC spokesman talks failed Democratic policies, fed-up parents

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EAST

Judge jails editor over reporter’s use of recorder in court

One dead in house fire where fireworks materials were found

Jones & Blount

910 472

Counties originally within the 704 area code

Rescuers free dog stuck in mountain culvert

Man mistakenly released from jail found in attic

336 743

NSJ staff RALEIGH — The U.S. House minority leader, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, and his political committee, Take Back the House 2022, contributed $133,000 to the North Carolina Republican Party. “Our path to a Republican majority runs through North Carolina, and I look forward to partnering with chairman Michael Whatley and the North Carolina Republican Party to Take Back the House in 2022,” said McCarthy. “The Democrats’ relentless assault on our American values must stop. Democrats seek to divide us and distract from their policies that are failing America. We, Republicans,

are working together to win in 2022 and deliver a safer, stronger, and more optimistic future for all Americans.” NCGOP Chairman Michael Whatley thanked McCarthy for his support, which he says will be used in the state’s 14 Congressional races in 2022. “North Carolina will be on the frontlines of the Republican effort to take back the House next year, and we are grateful for Leader McCarthy’s early investments in North Carolina and other critical battleground states to ensure Republicans win back control of Congress and put an end to the far left’s disastrous policies,” said Whatley.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | ALEXIS DE TOCQUEVILLE

Americans do not converse; they argue

If an American were reduced to minding only his own business, half of his life would be stolen from him.

TO SET FOOT on American soil is to find oneself in tumultuous surroundings. A confused clamor proceeds from every quarter. A thousand voices assail the ear simultaneously, each giving expression to some social need. Everywhere things are in an uproar. The great political fervor that keeps American legislatures in a state of constant agitation is the only part of this vast movement that can be seen from abroad, but it is merely an episode in something much larger, and in a way an extension of it; something that begins in the lowest ranks of the populace and from there spreads through all classes of citizens one after another. No one can work harder at being happy than Americans do. It is difficult to say what place political concerns occupy in the lives of Americans. For them, to take an interest in and talk about the government of society is life’s most important activity and, in a way, its only pleasure… Americans do not converse; they argue. They do not talk; they lecture. They always speak to you as though addressing a meeting, and if for some reason, they warm to the topic, they will say “Gentlemen” even when addressing a single person. The inhabitants of some countries accept the political rights granted them by law only with a kind of repugnance. It seems as though they value their time too much to spend it on the interests of the community, and they would rather confine themselves within the narrow limits of self-interest, precisely defined by four ditches lined with hedges. If, by contrast, an American were reduced to minding only his own business, half of his life would be stolen from him. He would feel as though an immense void had hollowed out his days, and he would become incredibly unhappy. I am convinced that if despotism ever takes hold in America, it will find conquering the habits to which liberty has given rise even more difficult than subduing the love of liberty itself. The ceaseless agitation that democratic government introduces into politics then spreads to civil society. I am not

sure that in the end this is not the greatest benefit of democratic government, so that I praise it far more for what it causes to be done than for what it does…. I have no doubt that democratic institutions, combined with the physical nature of the country, are responsible for the prodigious development of industry that one sees in the United States — not the direct cause, as so many say, but rather the indirect cause. It is not that the laws are responsible for this development, but rather that the people, in making the laws, learn how to make it happen. Democracy does not give the people the most skillful government, but what it does even the most skillful government is powerless to achieve: it spreads throughout society a restless activity, a superabundant strength, an energy that never exists without it, and which, if circumstances are even slightly favorable, can accomplish miracles. These are (democracy’s) true advantages. In this century, when the fate of the Christian world seems to hang in the balance, some are quick to attack democracy as a hostile power, while it is still growing; others already worship it as a new god emerged from the void. What do you want from society and government?... If it seems useful to you to turn man’s intellectual and moral efforts to the necessities of life and use them to improve his well-being; if reason strikes you as more profitable to man than genius; if your purpose is to create not heroic virtues but tranquil habits; if you are willing to settle for a prosperous (society); and if the principal purpose of a government is not to make the nation as a whole as glorious or powerful as it can be but to achieve for each individual the greatest possible well-being while avoiding misery as much as possible, then constitute a democratic government. Direct quotes from “Democracy in America” written by Alexis de Tocqueville, 1835. Things apparently haven’t changed all that much in the intervening 186 years

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

Disgraced hot-shot lawyer Michael Avenatti the latest media darling to fall from grace

During the sentencing, Avenatti reportedly cried as he spoke somewhat remorsefully to the judge.

ONE BY ONE, many of the media darlings from the Trump era have taken rather dramatic falls from grace. Democratic New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who in 2020 could do no wrong and was treated like a king and a shining example of how to lead through a pandemic, is now immersed in two major scandals. One of them involves a nursing home order that critics say was responsible for the COVID-19 deaths of thousands of elderly residents at senior care facilities, and the other involves multiple allegations of sexual harassment and, worse, a claim of an assault in one case. Rebekah Jones, a fired former IT staffer with the Florida Department of Health, was portrayed in 2020 as the woman who would ultimately expose Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as a fraud who was hiding the true number of coronavirus cases and deaths. As it turns out, Jones was the one thoroughly exposed as the fraud, with news outlets only giving her scant attention now when they think she has information that can help bolster their own weak campaigns against DeSantis. The latest media darling to lose his rock-star status is highprofile lawyer Michael Avenatti. Mr. Avenatti shot to fame when he began representing adult-film star Stormy Daniels, who was allegedly paid $130,000 to keep an alleged affair with Trump secret. In the time span of a little over a year, Avenatti appeared hundreds of times as a guest on a number of news programs, promising the goods against Trump and talking tough, vowing that Trump would not serve out what ended up being one term in office. The media absolutely lapped it up. He was painted as a possible 2020 contender. Some called him a “beast” who Trump was afraid of. Others likened him to “the Holy Spirit,” who would be America’s savior for taking down the media’s No. 1 enemy. As it turns out, Avenatti is the one who took the spectacular

fall. In April 2019, he was charged with multiple counts of fraud, perjury, embezzlement, and tax evasion, among other things. And just last week, Avenatti, who was convicted in February 2020 of attempting to extort millions from Nike, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison. During the sentencing, Avenatti reportedly cried as he spoke somewhat remorsefully to the judge. Though the judge didn’t give him the maximum sentence recommended under the federal guidelines, he nevertheless let him have it, rebuking him in a way that left no doubt to his colleagues in the legal profession just how big of a scumbag he actually was. “Mr. Avenatti had become drunk on the power of his platform, or what he perceived the power of his platform to be,” Manhattan federal court Judge Paul Gardephe noted. “He had become someone who operated as if the laws and rules which apply to everyone else didn’t apply to him.” And as a result, he was going to pay the price. Unfortunately for Avenatti, his time before a judge and jury is far from over. Though he’s scheduled to begin serving his sentence on Sept. 15, he’s also set for a new trial this week in California, where he’ll be tried on multiple counts of tax fraud. In a recent opinion piece, assistant Wall Street Journal editorial page editor Michael Freeman asked if “the criminal sentencing of CNN’s favorite lawyer [will] lead to any media reform?” The answer, of course, is no. Because if there’s anything we learned during the four years of Trump’s administration, it’s that there is no shortage of people ready and willing to take advantage of an easily and willingly duped media, as long as both share the common goal of taking down a Republican. Media analyst Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021 COLUMN ERICK ERICKSON

COLUMN | NEWT GINGRICH

Afghanistan: overcoming defeat and denial

When America is weak at home and abroad, bad people do bad things.

WITH EACH passing day in Afghanistan, the Taliban grows stronger, and the pro-American government forces grow weaker. Anecdotally, you can see the momentum building in the news coverage. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Long War Journal, which has been tracking war in Afghanistan for years, estimates that as of Sunday, the Taliban controlled 213 districts. It reports that the government controls 70 districts and some 115 districts are being contested. Thus, after the United States, NATO, and our Afghan allies spent 20 years fighting to create a postTaliban country, the evidence is growing that we have lost. The Long War Journal also reports as of Sunday, that there are an estimated 13.4 million people living under the Taliban, some 10.3 million living under the government and about 9.1 million living in contested areas. Remember that these are people whose memory of war goes back more than 40 years to the Soviet invasion in December 1979. Many Afghans have lived their entire lives in the middle of a brutal war. They are now beginning to look for ways to accommodate a new reality. The Soviets lost. The Americans lost. Now, the Taliban with its semi-medieval worldview will be back as brutal and oppressive as ever. As a sign of the times on Sunday, 1,000 government troops fled to Tajikistan. Three hundred have flown back into government bases but 700 are still across the border. Also consider the methodical assassination of Afghan pilots, most of whom had been trained in the United States. When life is more dangerous grocery shopping than flying in combat, you know your side is losing. The odds are overwhelming that this generation of Americans is about to learn what a lot of Americans learned painfully in 1975, when Saigon fell and the brutality, killings, concentration camps and re-education programs began. When America is weak at home and abroad, bad people do bad things. Years ago, a journalist who had started out against the Vietnam War (and in fact thought North Vietnam was in the right) told me he changed his mind after America left the country.

The spirit of conquest and brutality that spread as the north conquered the south convinced him he had believed a lie. He spent the rest of his career as a militantly pro-American, anti-evil journalist. Despite more than a half century of war, in many places, the United States has no doctrine for winning wars against militant minorities with sanctuaries. The Taliban will now almost certainly win. As town after town collapses and women are persecuted, defeat will be obvious. Across the planet, the enemies of America will take heart from the American withdrawal, the abandonment of our allies, the desertion of those who helped us and the collapse of Western, enlightenment-based influence in Afghanistan. America will look weaker, and our enemies will look stronger. This is happening after a 19-year war in which it is estimated the United States spent $2.26 trillion (that is $2,260,000,000,000). We lost more than 2,300 Americans, and more than 20,000 were wounded —many of whom now live with permanent disabilities. With this enormous effort, the United States lost. I am not arguing for another generation of Americans to spend their lives and efforts in Afghanistan. It is over, and we failed. I am arguing that we need to actually stop and learn from the failure — something we have not done since Dec. 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. We need to understand that after 19 years of effort, this is a defeat — and it needs serious rethinking in our defense system at a level we have not seen in our lifetime. We then need a new doctrine that can win the dozens of small wars around the planet, in which massive armies are currently being defeated by small, under-powered but brutally effective guerrilla fighters. We need a doctrine that can decisively defeat enemies when it matters. What we must not do is pretend everything is OK and that nothing needs to change. This is much bigger than President Joe Biden. This is much bigger than politics. This is a visible, meaningful American defeat on the world stage. It will require an American recommitment to new doctrine, new tactics and new approaches. Today, we have none of these.

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Both parties fail to respond to signals in the political marketplace

Consider Democrats’ anguished attacks on state voting law changes as “voter suppression” — even though nonpartisan research shows they have little effect on turnout.

I LIKE TO APPLY free-market analysis to American politics. Within established laws, politicians compete for votes and are rewarded for maximizing voters’ preferences. As in economics, there are sometimes market failures, but mostly the system seems to be selfregulating. This sounds nice, but it doesn’t seem to describe what’s been happening over the past five or so years. Both parties seem to be ignoring voters’ clear signals. Neither seems to be rationally maximizing its votes and its chances of winning presidential elections or congressional majorities. National Democrats have indeed won the popular vote in six of the last seven presidential elections, but in only four did they have comfortable Electoral College majorities. Hillary Clinton lost 46 crucial electoral votes to Donald Trump by 77,736 votes in three states in 2016. In 2020, Joe Biden won 27 crucial electoral votes by an even smaller 42,918 votes. Democrats’ positions on issues have given them a large electorate largely clustered in central cities, sympathetic suburbs and university towns. That puts them at a disadvantage in the Electoral College and in congressional and legislative contests in equalpopulation districts, because Republican voters are spread more evenly around the rest of the country. Republicans’ position is no stronger. In four White House years, Donald Trump failed to make significant net gains as other re-elected Republican presidents (Eisenhower, Nixon, Reagan, George W. Bush) did. Trump’s claims that he somehow won the 2020 election “in a landslide” might have more moral standing if he had not trailed Biden by 7 million popular votes. Trump did make gains among demographic groups over previous Republican presidential nominees — among non-college whites in 2016, and among Hispanics in 2020. But his percentage of the popular vote went up by 0.9%. Neither party’s pols or primary voters have paid much heed to these signals. But Democrats haven’t done much to win marginal constituencies beyond their base. Their politicians and primary voters have moved sharply to the left over the last 15 years, as the liberal blogger Kevin Drum, citing Pew Research data, argues. The Biden administration has ratified this leftward movement, proposing federal takeover of elections, repeal of the 1996 welfare reform, the highest tax rates since the 1970s and explicit racial preferences in farmer aid and small business relief. Biden’s immigration policy is essentially open borders, and he downplays equality of opportunity in favor of equality of results (“equity”). Most Biden proposals are in predictable trouble given Democrats’ thin (51-50, 222-213) margins in Congress and their unpopularity among voters. To which Democrats’ response

is, “let’s change the system.” Abolish the Senate filibuster. Pass statehood for the District of Columbia and — although half its voters have opposed it for years — Puerto Rico. Pack the Supreme Court. Previous presidents (Dwight Eisenhower, Bill Clinton) modified their parties’ policies after it took shellackings in election after election. Biden and Democratic congressional leaders seem bent on pushing as many unpopular policies as possible, as long as their tenuous majorities last. That may be a while if Trump continues to dominate the political landscape. Trump can claim some unique policy successes — tax cuts and immigration policies that channeled economic gains disproportionately to low-wage workers, development and approval of COVID vaccines months before “experts” thought possible. But his non-credible insistence that he won the 2020 election combines his solipsism with rear-view-mirror vision — an election-losing formula. True, Democrats like Hillary Clinton, who supported Georgia Democrat Stacey Abrams’s claim she won in 2018, are not wellpositioned to criticize him. Nor are Democrats and journalists who spent two years hyping the Russia collusion hoax well-positioned to charge he’s pushing conspiracy theories. It’s not clear how many Republicans see their party as a Trump party and how many think it might do better in 2024 by nominating a candidate younger than 78 who can salute Trump’s political and policy successes unburdened by his personal baggage. Will either party start responding rationally to signals in the political marketplace any time soon? The signs are not propitious. Consider Democrats’ anguished attacks on state voting law changes as “voter suppression” — even though nonpartisan research shows they have little effect on turnout. Georgia, for example, has seen record turnout increases, and national turnout as the percentage of eligible voters in 2020 was the highest since 1900. New York City, with election laws much more restrictive than those Democrats criticize, just recorded its the second highest (after 1989) mayoral primary turnout primary in history, and the (anti-policedefunding) nominee was the choice of most black voters. Democrats have been allowing players with adolescent mindsets to determine their policies, and Republicans have been embracing a leader with adolescent behavior-control problems. It’s time for the parties to grow up and pay attention to the signals and cues voters are sending them in the political marketplace. Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime coauthor of The Almanac of American Politics.

Democracy’s last stand SIX MONTHS AGO, former President Donald Trump’s supporters went to Washington to protest his defeat. Some of those who went to Washington stormed the United States Capitol. Others, having seen people headed into the Capitol, wandered in, assuming they could be there. Someone planted pipe bombs at both the Republican and Democratic headquarters. Some erected a noose to hang members of Congress. Some went in looking for former Vice President Mike Pence to cause him harm. Over 75 million people voted for Trump, and the media and Democrats have sought to define them and every other Republican by those who stormed the Capitol. Some have claimed it was worse than 9/11. Others have compared it to a Nazi uprising. Noted political strategist James Carville has insisted Democrats tie all Republicans to that day and to that group that shattered windows, stole objects and tried to break through doors toward fleeing members of Congress. Last summer, the same media informed a viewing public that protests around the country were fiery but mostly peaceful. As storefronts burned, CBS brought on Nikole Hannah-Jones to state that destroying a person’s livelihood and business was not actually A media that violence. CNN dismissed antifa as not really a thing. even now MSNBC defended the insists every rioters. The New York Republican Times pretended none of it and Trump was happening. Innocent people trying to drive away voter be held from violent protesters were accountable condemned by the press and for Jan. 6 progressives for not sitting has always there and letting their cars be deflected, smashed. In Portland, Oregon, defended and rioters have continually, massaged the nightly, attempted to burn facts about the down a federal courthouse. protests of last The media and Democrats blamed Trump and federal summer, the law enforcement. Law violence, the enforcement left, and the crime wave, rioting continued, but the the repeated media stopped covering it. In Chicago, the mayor, attempts by who now wants federal progressives law enforcement to protect to block her city, just last summer democratic denounced federal law enforcement and refused actions, etc. Trump’s offer to have them come help calm the city. The media defended her decision. At Trump’s inauguration, rioters marched through the streets of Washington smashing windows, burning cars and beating up Republicans. They did the same just last year, including attacking Sen. Rand Paul and his wife. Speaking of Paul, various Democrats and comedians on television have used him as the butt of their jokes after his neighbor violently attacked him. A few years ago, progressive agitators stormed Texas’ Capitol building attempting to shut down the legislature as it met to pass pro-life legislation. The media took the side of the protestors trying to block the passage of pro-life legislation from the duly elected Texas legislature. Before that, in Wisconsin, progressive activists stormed the Wisconsin Capitol building attempting to block Republican reforms and redistricting plans. Having lost the election, they attempted to barricade themselves in the building. The media passively, dispassionately covered it. It was, after all, understandable because those Republicans were trying to gerrymander. A media that even now insists every Republican and Trump voter be held accountable for Jan. 6 has always deflected, defended and massaged the facts about the protests of last summer, the violence, the crime wave, the repeated attempts by progressives to block democratic actions, etc. Progressives, antifa and Black Lives Matter agitators are always the protagonists. Law enforcement, Republicans and conservatives are always the antagonists. Each of the incidents was appalling. Each should be denounced. The American mainstream media, however, seems fixated on one while having ignored all the others. Some will say Jan. 6 is uniquely bad. It was really bad and condemnable. But also, Jan. 6 probably never would have happened had the media and Democrats together not spent so many years defending violent protestors disrupting democratic institutions and burning down businesses when the protestors were progressive. Democracy’s last stand is not actually about accountability for Jan. 6, a commission and a need to push back against Trump voters. Democracy’s last stand is whether the American press can free itself again from left-wing groupthink and actually be a fair and impartial press. Democracy depends on that very thing, and the media, through its own biases and partisanship, is abandoning the democratic ship in favor of a Democratic Party just as authoritarian as the GOP, if not more.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

NATION & WORLD Top US commander in Afghanistan relinquishes post

LYNNE SLADKY | AP PHOTO

In this July 3, 2021, file photo, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, right, and his wife Casey tour a makeshift memorial near the Champlain Towers South condo building, where scores of victims remain missing more than a week after it partially collapsed in Surfside, Fla.

DeSantis shows empathetic side in response to Surfside tragedy By Bobby Caina Calvan The Associated Press SURFSIDE, Fla. — When the coronavirus hit Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis defiantly bucked mask mandates. He later cracked down on protesters against law enforcement, blasted President Joe Biden on immigration, jumped into the fight over transgender athletes and signed sweeping legislation to toughen voting rules. But after a deadly building collapse, the Republican governor largely hit pause on the culture wars. In the two weeks since a 12-story condo tower in this coastal community suddenly crumbled, killing at least 78 people, DeSantis has stood somberly with local officials, including Democrats, as they assessed the damage. He nodded in agreement when Biden visited and hailed their joint appearance as a sign that those with opposing political views can work together in a crisis. And he even skipped a rally in Sarasota headlined by former President Donald Trump. As DeSantis prepares for a reelection bid next year that could propel him into a presidential campaign, the tragedy in Surfside is exposing voters to a different side of the governor. He’s still the conservative populist, but DeSantis is showing that he can tone

down some of his most extreme partisan rhetoric during a disaster. “The governor has been decisive. He’s been constant. He’s been collaborative,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Danielle Levine Cava, a Democrat who has sparred with DeSantis in the past, said in an interview. “Hats off to the governor for how he has supported us in this crisis.” Charles Burkett, the nonpartisan mayor of Surfside, called the level of cooperation “astounding.” Mac Stipanovich, a former Republican campaign strategist, said DeSantis is “less frightening than Trump” to some voters even as he steadily courts the former president’s base. DeSantis “has a finely tuned sense of what is the best red meat, on any given day, to throw to the MAGA base, and he does it with skill,” Stipanovich said. “Soon as we’re beyond the window of this tragedy, everybody will be at each other’s throats once again.” Indeed, the debate could swiftly move to how the state and local governments manage aging infrastructure. Officials in Miami-Dade County are moving forward with a 30-day audit of buildings that are more than 40 years old. DeSantis has questioned the necessity of a statewide review of older buildings.

DeSantis’ handling of the tragedy appears to have caught some Democrats off guard, leaving them with no unified response. Rep. Charlie Crist, a Democrat hoping to challenge DeSantis next year, didn’t respond to requests for comment on the governor’s response to the collapse. Nikki Fried, Florida’s Democratic agriculture commissioner who has also announced a bid for governor, praised local officials, Biden and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. But she knocked DeSantis for wading into the politically charged immigration debate by sending Florida law enforcement to the border with Mexico. “Although the Florida Division of Emergency Management has been working around the clock to support search and rescue efforts, it was unfortunate that Governor DeSantis diverted first responders to the southern border during this incredibly difficult time for the Miami community and our entire state,” she said. Rep. Val Demings, a Democrat seeking to challenge GOP Sen. Marco Rubio, said she was “glad to see productive partnership between local, state, and federal officials as we work to save lives.” “In times of crisis,” she said, “we need to set partisanship aside and do what’s right for our communities.”

For his part, Rubio has also appeared at the scene of the condo collapse multiple times with local officials, including Democrats, and has worked with the Biden administration to expedite visas for family members of victims. DeSantis is gaining national attention at a critical juncture for Republicans. While Trump decides whether to run again in 2024, those with presidential ambitions are making aggressive moves to position themselves as his heir should he opt against a campaign. For now, Trump remains happy to be aligned with DeSantis. But several people in touch with the former president and his team said he has paid close attention as DeSantis has wooed donors at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in South Florida and gained traction in conservative circles. DeSantis has said he is focused more on winning reelection next year than the 2024 contest. He is one of the few leading Republicans who has not visited Iowa, home to the leadoff presidential caucuses and a state dominated by conservative evangelicals who can sway the GOP’s direction. DeSantis has instead spent part of his summer traveling to political fundraisers in states including Pennsylvania and California. Tony Krvaric, who helped arrange an event on DeSantis’ behalf in San Diego, said the excitement surrounding the governor was “sky high” and his response to the collapse has further helped his reputation. “He’s handled it professionally and with empathy,” Krvaric said.

Japan’s gov’t sees Taiwan tensions as regional security risk By Mari Yamaghuchi The Associated Press TOKYO — Japan believes rising tension surrounding Taiwan requires its attention “with a sense of crisis” as China intensifies military activities in the area and the United States steps up support for the self-governing island. Japan’s concerns about Taiwan, Beijing’s growing rivalry with the United States and China’s increasingly assertive military actions in the region were added to an annual Defense Ministry paper that was adopted Tuesday by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s Cabinet. “Stabilizing the Taiwan situation is important for Japan’s national security and stability of the international community,” the paper said. “We need to pay close attention with a sense of crisis more than ever before.” As China flexes its muscle in the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region, Taiwan has become a regional flashpoint, as Japan, the United States and other democracies develop closer ties with the selfruled island that Beijing regards as a renegade territory to be united by force if necessary. “As China rapidly enhances its military power, changes in the military power balance between the United States and China may possibly affect the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region,” the report said. “It is necessary to pay greater attention to the military trends of the two countries in areas such as

CHIANG YING-YING | AP PHOTO

In this Jan. 19, 2021, file photo, a soldier holds a Taiwanese flag during a military exercise aimed at repelling an attack from China in Hsinchu County, northern Taiwan. the South China Sea and Taiwan.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian called the report “extremely erroneous and irresponsible.” “We will never allow any country to interfere with the Taiwan issue in any way. China must and will surely be reunified, and it is in the best interest of regional peace and stability for China to achieve complete reunification,” Zhao said at a daily briefing. Taiwan was a Japanese colony for 50 years until 1945 and connections between the two remain

strong. China has expanded its military capability over the past 20 years, with its defense spending at least 16 times that of Taiwan, with the gap increasing each year, the paper said. China’s military budget of $181.6 billion is four times that of Japan, it said. China has also increased Taiwan’s diplomatic isolation, leaving it with just over a dozen formal diplomatic allies. Taiwan still operates a network of trade offices that act as de facto embassies, including in the United States, Japan and most oth-

er major nations. Japan is increasingly worried about Taiwan’s security implications amid rising tension between Beijing and Washington. The United States, Japan’s most important ally, has increased its military support for Taiwan, including dispatching warships to the Taiwan Strait and arms sales. China’s increased military capability and the lack of clarity to its defense spending “have become a matter of grave concern to the region including Japan and the international community,” the paper said. It also criticized China over its “relentless attempts to unilaterally change the status quo” of disputed Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands called Senkaku and Diaoyu, which China also claims, calling it “a violation of international law.” Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said Chinese vessels have remained just outside Japanese territorial waters around Senkaku for 150 straight days as of Monday, describing it as “an extremely grave situation.” China also claims almost all of the South China Sea, has built military bases on artificial islands in the disputed area and routinely objects to any action by the U.S. military in the region. The United States has no claims itself to the waters but has deployed warships and aircraft for decades to patrol and promote freedom of navigation and overflight in the busy waterway.

Kabul, Afghanistan The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan relinquished his position at a ceremony in the capital Kabul on Monday, taking the United States a step closer to ending its 20year war. The move came as Taliban insurgents continue to gain territory across the country. Another four-star general will assume authority from his U.S.-based post to conduct possible airstrikes in defense of Afghan government forces, at least until the U.S. withdrawal concludes by Aug. 31. Gen. Scott Miller served as America’s top commander in Afghanistan since 2018. He handed over command of what has become known as America’s “forever war” in its waning days to Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, the head of U.S. Central Command. McKenzie will operate from Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida. Afghanistan’s National Security Adviser Hamdullah Mohib, who attended the handover, said the U.S. and NATO withdrawal left a vacuum that resulted in Afghanistan’s national security forces stranded on the battlefield without supplies, sometimes running out of food and ammunition. The Taliban control more than a third of Afghanistan’s 421 districts and district centers. A Taliban claim that they control 85% of the districts is seen as exaggerated. A deal the U.S. struck with the Taliban in February 2020 included a promise from the insurgent movement not to attack U.S. and NATO troops. The U.S. is committed to spending $4.4 billion annually to fund Afghanistan’s security forces until 2024. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

US pulls visas of 100 Nicaraguan legislators, judges Managua, Nicaragua The U.S. State Department announced it is revoking the travel visas of 100 legislators, judges and prosecutors who aided the regime of President Daniel Ortega. The department said the cancellations came in response to the arrests by Ortega’s Sandinista government of at least 26 members of the opposition and most potential candidates in the Nov. 7 elections. The department accused the officials and their family members of having “advanced the Ortega-Murillo regime’s assault on democracy.” That was a reference to Rosario Murillo, Ortega’s wife and vice president. The measure targets “those with responsibility for, or complicity in, the suppression of peaceful protests or abuse of human rights, and the immediate family members of such persons.” It prevents those named from entering the United States. In June, Mexico and Argentina recalled their ambassadors to Nicaragua, and the Organization of American States passed a resolution condemning the recent arrests of key opposition figures. Since June, Ortega’s government has arrested six probable candidates in the Nov. 7 elections, in which Ortega, 75, is running for a fourth consecutive presidential term. The State Department said: “The United States will continue to use the diplomatic and economic tools at our disposal to push for the release of political prisoners and to support Nicaraguans’ calls for greater freedom, accountability, and free and fair elections.” THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

SPORTS

Busy 2 weeks ahead for Hurricanes, B4

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI | AP PHOTO

Wake Forest’s Ryan Cusick stands with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred after being selected by Atlanta Braves as the 24th pick in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft on Sunday in Denver.

the Wednesday SIDELINE REPORT OLYMPICS

U.S. baseball tuneups scheduled for Triangle Cary and Durham The U.S. Olympic baseball team will warm up for the competition in Tokyo by playing three exhibition games against the USA Baseball Collegiate Team. The games on Sunday and Tuesday will be played at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary. Saturday’s game is scheduled for Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The U.S. team is composed of players not currently on the 40‑man roster of a major league team, including Durham Bulls teammates Joe Ryan and Shane Baz. It will begin the Olympic tournament against Israel on Friday, July 30. The USA Baseball Collegiate Team is coached by NC State’s Elliott Avent and features three players with state ties — Wolfpack pitchers Sam Highfill and Chris Villaman, and East Carolina pitcher Carson Whisenhunt.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

Rules changed after black softball player had to cut hair Durham The national governing body for high school athletics has changed its softball rules after a black player in Durham was forced to cut her hair during a game because of the beads she was wearing. The National Federation of High Schools removed language from one rule which had previously prohibited hard items to control the hair, including hair beads. In addition, head coverings worn for religious reasons will no longer require approval from state associations. Nicole Pyles of Hillside High School was told by two umpires on April 19 that she would either have to remove the beads in her hair or leave the senior day game against rival Jordan High School. Pyles chose to let her teammates cut her hair to remove the beads so she could continue playing.

Kahlil Watson leads North Carolina representation in MLB Draft The Wake Forest High shortstop was taken 16th overall by Miami By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE MLB DRAFT took some unexpected twists and turns in the first round over the weekend, and no one benefited more than the Miami Marlins. With teams reaching and prospects sliding, Wake Forest High

School shortstop Kahlil Watson was still available when the Marlins went on the clock at No. 16 overall. “When you get a player with that type of talent combined with that type of performance, to have him fall down to us for our pick was extremely exciting,” said Miami’s director of amateur scouting DJ Svihlik. “Kahlil is one of the more dynamic players in the draft. You’re talking about a guy that has a plus arm, plus run, electric bat speed, combined with a great

swing and athleticism.” Watson became the first North Carolina high schooler drafted in the first round since 2017 when Whiteville’s MacKenzie Gore was selected third overall by San Diego. The Marlins’ gain may have been NC State’s loss, as Watson was committed to the Wolfpack as the gem of Elliott Avent’s 2021 recruiting class. There’s still an outside chance that Watson will pass up a contract with Miami and play for Avent, of course.

State also had four members of this season’s College World Series team selected in the first 10 rounds of the draft — the final 10 rounds took place on Tuesday afternoon. Second baseman Tyler McDonough was taken by Boston in the third round, No. 75 overall. It’s the third time in the last four drafts Boston has taken a State player. Shortstop Jose Torres went to See MLB DRAFT, page B3

Expansion Charlotte FC has its first coach The incoming MLS franchise named Miguel Angel Ramirez to lead the team when it starts play next season By Brett Friedlander North State Journal MIGUEL ANGEL Ramirez’s name wasn’t among those considered when Charlotte’s Major League Soccer expansion franchise began the search for its first coach. But it’s not because team management doubted his ability to do the job. “He was not on an initial list of candidates because we didn’t think, really, that we could get him,” team sporting director (general manager) Zoran Krneta told the MLS’s official website. While Ramirez might not have been interested in the job when Charlotte FC began its search last year, it became much more attractive to him when he suddenly found himself unemployed after less than one season leading the Brazilian team Porto Alegre International. The 36-year-old Spaniard whom Krneta referred to as “a big, upcoming star,” accepted the challenge of leading Charlotte FC into its inaugural season when he was hired by the MLS’s newest team last Wednesday. He was one of approximately 30

SILVIA IZQUIERDO | AP PHOTO

Miguel Angel Ramirez will be the coach of Charlotte FC when the Major League Soccer expansion team starts play in 2022. candidates that were considered or interviewed for the job. “After a thorough review of many candidates, it was obvious to us that Miguel was the right person to lead our team,” team owner David Tepper said in a statement. “He is a process-oriented coach with a unique style of play and a

proven ability to develop young talent.” Ramirez will be formally introduced sometime next month after he receives a work visa. He will then have just under a year to familiarize himself with the MLS, scout players and begin building a roster.

Once the team begins to play in 2022, he will become the youngest coach in the MLS. Despite his youth and lack of previous MLS experience, the native of Las Palmas in the Spanish Canary Islands is anything but a See CHARLOTTE FC, page B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

B2 WEDNESDAY

7.14.21

TRENDING

Barkevious Mingo: The linebacker had his contract terminated by the Falcons after his arrest in Texas on a charge of indecency with a child-sexual contact. Mingo, 30, was arrested Thursday by police in the Dallas suburb of Arlington. He was released after posting a $25,000 bond. Mingo was chosen by Cleveland as the sixth overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. He signed a one-year contract in March with the Falcons. Mingo also has played for Chicago, Houston, New England and Seattle during his NFL career.

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NASCAR

Kurt Busch passed brother Kyle with 24 laps remaining to win Sunday’s Cup Series race at Atlanta, becoming the 12th driver to secure a spot in the playoffs. The 42-year-old has now won races in eight straight seasons and 18 of the last 20 years. Kyle Busch was second, followed by Martin Truex Jr., Alex Bowman and Ryan Blaney.

JOHN LOCHER | AP PHOTO

“Karma is a mirror.” UFC lightweight Dustin Poirier after his TKO win Saturday after the brash Conor McGregor was unable to begin the second round on his fractured shin. JOHN AMIS | AP PHOTO

Manny Pacquiao: The 42-year-old boxer will return to the ring and face unbeaten Errol Spence Jr. on Aug. 21. Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KOs) and Spence (27‑0, 21 KOs) will fight for Spence’s WBC and IBF welterweight titles when they meet at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pacquiao hasn’t fought since July 2019, when he beat Keith Thurman by split decision. The 31-year-old Spence will be in the ring for only the second time since an October 2019 car accident. He returned last December with a unanimous decision over Danny Garcia. Jacob Steinmetz: The 17-year-old Long Island native is believed to be the first practicing Orthodox Jewish player to be selected by a major league team, going in the third round — 77th overall — to the Diamondbacks on Monday. The 6-foot-5, 220-pound Steinmetz is a right-hander who plays during the Sabbath and on Jewish holidays — although he walks to games on those days rather than taking transportation. No practicing Orthodox Jewish player has made it to the big leagues.

MLB

TENNIS

DAVID BECKER | AP PHOTO

“We tired out. ... In general, we need more conditioning.” USA basketball coach Gregg Popovich after the team lost its second straight Olympic tuneup game Monday to Australia. PRIME NUMBER

20 Grand Slam titles for Novak Djokovic after his win in Sunday’s Wimbledon final over Matteo Berrettini, tying him with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for the most in men’s tennis history. Djokovic also became the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to win the first three major tournaments in a calendar year.

LYNNE SLADKY | AP PHOTO

Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is out for the season after suffering a complete tear of his right ACL on Saturday night in Miami. The 23-year‑old jumped at the warning track in right field and slammed into the outfield wall, landing awkwardly and immediately grabbing his right knee.

KIRSTY WIGGLESWORTH | AP PHOTO

Australian Ash Barty won her second Grand Slam championship Saturday, defeating Karolina Pliskova 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-3 to claim her first Wimbledon title. Barty had previously won the French Open in 2019. Barty is the first Australian woman to win Wimbledon since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1980.

SOCCER

CATHERINE IVILL | AP PHOTO

Italy won the European Championship for the second time by beating England 3-2 on penalties on Sunday. The match finished 1-1 after extra time at Wembley Stadium, and Marcus Rashford Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka failed to score on Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma in the shootout.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Tar Heels football coping with uncertainty on several fronts Recruiting, scholarships and NIL are complicating offseason activities

have available, a problem that’s been made tougher to solve by a questionable NCAA decision. After giving every player an extra year of scholarship eligibility to make up for last year’s By Shawn Krest COVID-impacted season, most North State Journal observers expected the NCAA to COMING OFF A trip to the adjust scholarship levels to acOrange Bowl, North Carolina commodate the extra players. “We thought the NCAA would football is ready to take another give us a number (of scholarstep forward. “We had a good year last year,” ships) above the cap of 85 next coach Mack Brown said. “We’re year, but they’re not doing that,” Brown said. “What we’ve had to trying to be great.” With junior quarterback Sam do is sit down with every player Howell and many returning stars and say, ‘If you’re not playing a lot on both sides of the ball, the Tar next year, will you be in the transHeels have visions of competing fer portal? If you’re drafted in the for a berth in the College Football first three rounds, will you leave? How about rounds four through Playoff. The number of berths avail- seven? If you’re a senior and not drafted, will you be leaving anyable may be about to change. way? Will you opt out of “There’s been a prothe bowl game?’ We’ve posal to have a 12-team had hard conversations playoff,” Brown said. with each one of them. “We took it to the play- “Don’t let With COVID, with rosers and asked what they ter management the thought since it’s go- your brand way it is, we need to ing to affect them more get ahead know how many scholthan anybody else.” Surprisingly, since of your ball.” arships we’ll have available next year.” the Tar Heels fully exEven something as pect to be fighting for a UNC coach simple as printing up berth, the players didn’t Mack Brown the roster can lead to think more was better. confusion this year. “Our players were on NIL “It’s been crazy,” against the 12-team endorsements Brown said. “What year playoff,” Brown said. are they are? How does “They were about even(sports information) list ly split between a sixthem? Is he a sixth-year senior? and an eight-team playoff.” The players were concerned Is he a super senior? What does about the length of the season, that mean? … He might graduwhich could stretch to 17 games ate in December of ’21 and have in a 12-team scenario. “They also three years left of eligibility, so weren’t sure there would be 12 what does that make him? He’s teams good enough to win a na- a senior academically or he’s a tional championship,” Brown graduate, but he has three years left. It’s just crazy.” said. If figuring out a player’s year in A potential change to the size of the playoff is just one of several school is that tough, it’s dwarfed major changes that Carolina, and by the challenge of keeping track the rest of college football, is nav- of the team’s endorsements. The igating in this most uncertain of NCAA has opened things up to allow every athlete to profit from offseasons. The staff has been busy try- their name, image and likeness, ing to keep up with recruiting af- but like everything else this sumter the doors were opened for vis- mer, it has layer upon layer of its following a shutdown of more complexity. “We have to start with comthan a year due to the pandemic. “Recruiting has been crazy in pliance,” Brown said, “because if June,” Brown said. “We took 15 a young man makes a poor decimonths of recruiting and put it in sion and doesn’t have it properly three weeks. So, as you can imag- approved, he could be ineligible.” It also means paying attention ine, we had unofficial visits, we had official visits. We had eval- to state and federal tax implicauations, which we’ve never had tions for both the player and his before, where a young man could parents, and income from encome in and we could work him dorsements could potentially imout for an hour. We’ve never been pact an athlete’s Pell Grant. “They’re having to learn a lot able to do that before.” Meeting the players in person of grown-up things pretty quickly,” Brown said. has led to some surprises. Brown’s message to the team “All of a sudden, you go from 15 months of Zooming to see- has been not to lose sight of ing them, saying hello to them, what’s important. “To make any money with your sitting down to visit and actually recruiting them,” he said. “It’s brand, you’re going to have to be amazing, sometimes you’d say, a good player,” he told the team. ‘Oh my gosh, he’s so much big- “They’re going to have to see you ger than he looked on Zoom.’ as someone that can represent And then some you may say, ‘He their brand. Second, you have to must’ve been standing on a table. stay out of trouble. Don’t let your brand get ahead of your ball.” He’s not very tall.’” In this strangest of summers, As the coaches work to bring in future Tar Heels, they need to it seems that everything is pushfigure out how many spots they’ll ing to get ahead of the ball.

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI | AP PHOTO

Fayetteville’s Naomi Graham will be the first female active-duty soldier to box in the Olympics when she competes in Tokyo.

Military strikes: Fayetteville’s Graham boxes way to Olympics The Army staff sergeant overcame homelessness and adversity to become the top female American middleweight By Brett Friedlander North State Journal NOT ALL ATHLETES are role models, and as Charles Barkley famously pointed out in a controversial 1993 Nike commercial, not all want to be. Naomi Graham is one who does. A staff sergeant in the United States Army who is about to represent her country as a groundbreaking Olympic boxer, the Fayetteville native doesn’t just accept her status as a positive example for others to follow. She considers it her responsibility. “As the first active-duty woman to box in the Olympics, I definitely look at myself as a role model,” she said. “This is what this was all for, to show other women, girls, children that no matter where you come from or what situations you find yourself in, you can be anything you want to be. You can come from nothing and be an Olympian or even an Olympic gold medalist.” Graham’s journey to Tokyo didn’t exactly start from nothing. But it was close. The youngest of six siblings in a military family, she found herself homeless for a time after graduating from Pine Forest High School, finding refuge wherever she could — including the floor of an abandoned house — before deciding to join the Army in 2013. Her enlistment didn’t just provide her with a home and give her life purpose. It also fueled a passion that had been simmering inside her from an early age. “At age 9, my sister took me to

“I’ll never forget feeling like the boxing gym was where I belonged.” Naomi Graham

a boxing gym,” Graham said of her sister Rachel Clark, who fought professionally from 2008-11. “My mom wouldn’t allow me to box or train but said I could go and watch. I’ll never forget feeling like the boxing gym was where I belonged. I said I would box when I got older, and that stuck with me all those years.” She got her opportunity when, after basic training at Fort Jackson in South Carolina, she was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, home of the Army’s World Class Athlete Program. Her first fight was in 2014 at the age of 24. It didn’t take long for her career to take off. A 5-foot-10 middleweight with a long reach, a powerful jab that has become her most effective punch and an even more powerful drive to succeed, Graham was accepted into the World Class Athlete Program after just three sanctioned fights. She earned an invitation to the 2016 Olympic Trials after just 10 bouts. It was there that Graham ran into defending Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields, who didn’t just teach her a lesson in the ring but also what it took to become a champion between major competitions. “After my first nationals when I placed third, I knew I had some thinking to do and if boxing was really what I wanted to do because

MLB DRAFT from page B1

MARK HUMPHREY | AP PHOTO

East Carolina pitcher Gavin Williams was selected 23rd overall by Cleveland, the first Pirates player taken in the first round since 2014.

Cincinnati 14 picks later, and pitcher Evan Justice was taken by Colorado in the fifth round, No. 140 overall. He’s the first Wolfpack player taken by the Rockies since 2011 when Harold Riggins went in the seventh round. Outfielder Austin Murr was taken by Detroit in the sixth, No. 165 overall, the third time in four years that the Tigers have taken a Wolfpack player. State wasn’t the only North Carolina school to have 2021 recruits drafted. The UNC Tar Heels may have to fill unexpected holes in their incoming freshman class after having two high school commits selected. Left-hander Anthony Solometo was taken by the Pirates in the second round, No. 37 overall, and third basemen James Triantos was taken by the Cubs 19 picks later. Three current Tar Heels were also drafted in the first 10 rounds. Right-hander Austin Love was drafted by the Cardinals in the third round, No. 90 overall. It’s the first time since 2018 that the Tar Heels haven’t had a player selected in the first round, and Love is the first Heel selected by St. Louis since Brandon Riley in 2018. Catcher Caleb Roberts was

taken by Arizona in the fifth round, No. 138 overall. He’s the first UNC player selected by the Diamondbacks since Austin Bergner in 2018 and the third Tar Heel catcher drafted in the last four years. Outfielder Justice Thompson was taken by the Reds in the sixth, No. 180 overall. Wake Forest also faces the prospect of losing a commitment as right-hander Peter Heubeck was selected by the Dodgers in the third round, No. 101 overall. Only one current Demon Deacon was taken in the first 10 rounds, with right-hander Ryan Cusick selected by Atlanta in the first round, No. 24 overall. It’s the second straight draft and third time in the last four that a Wake player has gone in the first round, as Cusick joins Jared Shuster (Braves) and Griffin Roberts (Cardinals). East Carolina rounded out the state’s representation in the first round. Right-hander Gavin Williams was selected by Cleveland 23rd overall. He becomes the first ECU player taken in the opening round since Jeff Hoffman in 2014. Second baseman Connor Norby was taken a round later, No. 41 overall, by Baltimore. It’s the first time ECU has ever had two players selected that early in the MLB Draft.

at that competition is where I experienced my first loss,” she said. “I was down and hurt that I had lost. I was unsure if the sport was really for me. “So I promised myself that I would listen to the coaches and train as hard as I could, and if I didn’t get any better then maybe the sport wasn’t for me. But I promised I would work as hard as possible before deciding something like that because I knew I was passionate about boxing.” The extra work and attention to detail have paid off. With Shields having turned professional following her second straight gold medal in Rio, Graham has become the top American amateur at 75 kilograms. She represented her country at the 2019 Pan-Am Games in Lima, Peru, winning a silver medal that was eventually upgraded to gold after Columbia’s Jessica Caicedo was disqualified for doping. It was one of the last major tournaments before the coronavirus pandemic shut down the sports world. Including the Olympics. “I am beyond excited to finally be going to Tokyo after the year delay,” Shields said. “I looked at it as another year to get better and continue working on things. But to be finally living my dream is beyond believable. I still ask myself sometimes, ‘A re you really about to go to the Olympics like you said you would?’” As for Shields’ chances of enhancing her status as a role model by bringing home a gold medal, USA Boxing coach Billy Walsh isn’t betting against her. “Naomi really proves that with hard work, anything is possible,” Walsh said. “She’s had some setbacks and troubles in her life, and she overcame it and made things better. She made something of herself, and not just in boxing.”

Duke was the other North Carolina school to have multiple players drafted in the first 10 rounds. Shortstop Ethan Murray was taken by Milwaukee in the fifth, No. 147 overall. He’s the first Blue Devil taken by the Brewers since Jeff Becker in 1998. Outfielder Joey Loperfido went to Houston in the seventh, No. 208 overall, and outfielder Peter Matt was taken by the Cubs in the 10th, No. 304 overall. Pitcher Mason Miller of Gardner-Webb was drafted by Oakland in the third, No. 97 overall. Campbell’s Spencer Packard was drafted by Seattle in the ninth, 264th overall. NC Central’s Austin Vernon went to Tampa Bay in the 10th, No. 311 overall, becoming just the third NCCU player ever drafted. Four North Carolina products who played in college out of state were also selected: Pitcher Brett Kerry (Clemmons, University of South Carolina) went to the Angels in the fifth, 141st overall. Left-hander Rohan Handa (Huntersville, Yale) went to San Francisco in the fifth, 146th overall. Right-hander Jake Smith (Chapel Hill, Miami) was taken by the Angels in the sixth, 171st overall, and Shane Connolly (Huntersville, Virginia Tech) was selected by Kansas City in the tenth, 289th overall.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Hectic July should put Hurricanes in focus A flurry of key dates — from the expansion and entry drafts to the opening of free agency — will determine the team’s direction for 2021-22 By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — It’s mid-July, so naturally there’s some downtime for NHL players and executives after a long season and frantic start to the offseason. Not so fast. With the start of the 2020-21 season delayed due to the coronavirus and the Stanley Cup awarded nearly a month later than usual, the condensed schedule that challenged the league’s teams during the season has carried over into the offseason. With the NHL planning to get back to normal with an October start for 2021-22, there will be a flurry of activity in the coming weeks as the league does some catching up after two years of upheaval. Toss in the addition of the league’s 32nd team and daily planners are overflowing with dates of importance. Here’s a look at the crazy two weeks ahead and how it will shape the Carolina Hurricanes going forward. July 17 Thirty NHL teams must submit their lists of protected players for the Seattle Kraken expansion draft Thursday, and the lists will be made public the next day. Vegas, the NHL’s 31st team, is exempt. Here’s a refresher on the rules, which are the same as when the Golden Knights joined the league for the 2017-18 season. Teams can choose between two

configurations for their protected list: either seven forwards, three defensemen and a goalie; or eight skaters and a goalie. Furthermore, each team must expose two forwards and a defenseman that are both under contract for at least next season and have played 27 or more games in 2020-21 or at least 54 games over the past two seasons. One goalie who is either under contract for next season or a restricted free agent with an expiring contract must also be left unprotected. Players with more than two years of professional experience in North America are eligible for the expansion draft, and players with a no-movement clause must be protected by their current team. Players with a no-trade clause in their contract can be exposed. The Kraken will select one player from each team and choose at least 14 forwards, nine defensemen and three goalies. So how does all this affect the Hurricanes? For starters, captain Jordan Staal must be protected because of the no-move clause in his contract. On the flip side, a loophole that allowed the Hurricanes to loan Martin Necas to the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers in 2018-19 means he officially only has two years of experience and will not need to be protected. If Carolina chooses the 7-31 configuration, they will be forced to expose a defenseman they would like to keep — either Brady Skjei or Jake Bean — unless they make a deal ahead of Thursday’s deadline. The 8-1 configuration would allow the Hurricanes to protect four defensemen but would leave someone like Vincent Trocheck unprotected. We’ll know more once the protected lists are revealed Friday.

MARK HUMPHREY | AP PHOTO

Defenseman Jake Bean, the Hurricanes’ top pick in the 2016 NHL Draft, could be a target of the expansion Seattle Kraken and the general manager who drafted him, former Hurricanes player and GM Ron Francis. July 21 Seattle will make its expansion draft picks next Wednesday. There could be a flurry of trades around the league as teams try to best position themselves to protect their best assets. Whether that means trades with Kraken to entice them to take an agreed-upon player or deals amongst the 31 other teams will be determined in the coming week. July 23-24 I hope you didn’t take a breath — it’s NHL Draft time. The league will hold a virtual draft for the second straight year due to the coronavirus, with the first round

in prime time on new rightsholder ESPN next Friday followed by Rounds 2-7 on the afternoon of July 24. Carolina currently holds eight picks in the draft — one each in the first, second, third, fourth and sixth rounds, and three in the seventh round. The Hurricanes will pick 26th in the first round. July 28 By now, the league’s teams will have spent the last week wheeling and dealing assets while welcoming new draft picks into the fold. Next up is the spending frenzy. With a flat salary cap of $81.5 million, many believe teams will be more frugal with their spend-

ing when the market opens. That may be true on some level, but the A-list free agents will still get their money. At the top of that list is Hurricanes defenseman Dougie Hamilton, who is in a position to cash in as a first-time free agent after scoring double-digit goals in each of the last seven seasons. Carolina would love to have Hamilton back, but not for the price and term that many believe the 28-year-old will get on the open market. The other notable unrestricted free agents for the Hurricanes are goalies Petr Mrazek and James Reimer, defenseman Jani Hakanpaa, and bottom-six forwards Jordan Martinook, Brock McGinn and Cedric Paquette.

Sticky stuff and Shohei: MLB’s 1st half intrigues Offense has slowly caught up to pitching this season, led by some unexpected players

.314 Batting average for Orioles outfielder and Greensboro native Cedric Mullins

By David Brandt The Associated Press THE BOSTON RED Sox and San Francisco Giants are better than just about anyone expected. The Washington Nationals and Minnesota Twins have unexpectedly struggled. Shohei Ohtani has turned into the best two-way player since the Babe. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. have continued their evolution into baseball-bashing superstars. Jacob deGrom has a 1.08 ERA, which could threaten the modern-era season record of 1.12 set in 1968 by Bob Gibson. A substance called Spider Tack became the hottest subject in the game for a few weeks. The Arizona Diamondbacks went two months and an MLB-record 24 games without winning a road contest. Seven no-hitters have been thrown (nine if you count Madison Bumgarner’s 7-inning gem against the Atlanta Braves, and the combo effort by the Rays. MLB doesn’t.) The Seattle Mariners were on the losing end of no-hitters two times in less than two weeks — and still finished the first half with an encouraging 48-43 record. Baseball in 2021 may have its issues, but storylines are not among them. The sport entered the All-Star break with tight races in nearly every division. Ballparks are slowly filling back up with the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions throughout the country. The second half of the season picks up when the Red Sox visit the New York Yankees on Thursday night.

CHARLOTTE FC from page B1 coaching novice. He began his career at the age of 19 working at the youth level in his hometown before moving to Greece and then Qatar, where he spent six seasons working with age-group teams at Aspire Academy. He also coached Qatar’s U14 and U17 national teams, many of whose members will be on that country’s 2022 World Cup squad. His first opportunity at the professional level came in 2018 when he joined the Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle. A year later, he led the team to the championship of Copa Sudamericana, the

and .248 in July through Saturday’s games. Is the rise because of MLB’s crackdown on pitchers using sticky stuff on baseballs? Time will tell. Powerful Pujols

JOSHUA BESSEX | AP PHOTO

Greensboro’s Cedric Mullins, right, has been a bright spot for the bottom-feeding Orioles. Unknown stars Here are some guys having great seasons that you might not know about: Brandon Crawford, San Francisco Giants, SS: The 34-year-old has been a good player for a long time, but he’s having a career year at the plate despite his relatively advanced age. He’s batting a career-high .289 and has 18 homers, which is on pace to easily top his season-high of 21. Cedric Mullins, Baltimore Orioles, OF: A classic case of a great player on a bad team, the Greensboro native is batting .314 with 16 homers, 23 doubles and 16 stolen bases while also anchoring

second-most prestigious tournament in South America. That success, which included a plus-32 season goal differential, led to the coaching opportunity in Brazil’s top league — which didn’t last long despite an 11-7-4 record. According to Krneta, Ramirez need not worry about getting such a quick hook with FC Charlotte. Patience will be the name of the game with the newly formed expansion team. “This coach needs time to build and time to present his ideas and his style of play,” Krneta said. “We will give him the time.” Ramirez favors an attacking style of play predicated on posses-

center field. Bryan Reynolds, Pittsburgh Pirates, OF: The 26-year-old was one of the National League’s best rookies in 2019 before regressing badly during the COVID-19 shortened 2020 season. This year, he’s proving his rookie season wasn’t a fluke with a .302 average, 16 homers and 21 doubles. Cole Irvin, Oakland Athletics, LHP: Irvin has come out of nowhere to be one of the A’s most important pitchers. He had just three big league starts before this season but has given Oakland 106 innings over 18 starts and a 3.65 ERA. Robbie Ray, Toronto Blue Jays, LHP: Ray has had a nice bounce-back season after a dread-

“He was not on an initial list of candidates because we didn’t think, really, that we could get him.” Zoran Krneta, Charlotte FC sporting director sion and ball control. According to Charlotte FC’s website, he is a flexible coach that isn’t afraid to adjust his formation and tactics depending on the situation and opponent. “He’s attractive, attacking, and

ful 2020, posting a 7-4 record and 3.13 ERA in the season’s first half. Many don’t know he’s one of the game’s elite strikeout pitchers and his 11.5 strikeouts per nine innings this year is similar to stars like Max Scherzer, Yu Darvish, Gerrit Cole and Aaron Nola.

It looked like Albert Pujols — one of the game’s elite offensive players of all time — was sputtering to the end of his Hall of Fame-caliber career after he was released by the Los Angeles Angels on May 13. But four days later, the 10-time All-Star was picked up by the Los Angeles Dodgers and his bat has perked up substantially. He smacked two homers on Saturday and has a .275 average and eight homers since joining the Dodgers. Now with 675 career homers, there’s reason to believe the 41-year-old could threaten 700 if he plays this year and next. Dreadful D-backs

It’s not exactly an offensive explosion, but MLB hitters are starting to create more runs as the summer has progressed. The 2021 season was on pace to be historically pitcher-friendly through May, but the batters have slowly improved. They hit .232 in April, .239 in May, .246 in June

It was a fitting end to the first half on Sunday for the Diamondbacks, who blew a 4-1 lead after seven innings and lost 7-4 to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Diamondbacks are 26-66 so far this season, which is on pace for one of the worst records in the game’s history. The 1962 New York Mets hold the MLB record with 120 losses in a season. Right now, the D-backs are on pace to finish 46-116.

entertaining soccer,” Krneta told MLSsoccer.com. “He wants to control the ball and control the happenings on the pitch. “We wanted a coach who would not be afraid to dip into that pool and to develop the players. We wanted a coach who is an educator, and he is the leader, the coach who has a great player-coach relationship, so he’s a man-manager. He will develop and strengthen those relationships.” Although there’s still a lot of work to do, those relationships are in the process of being established. On Monday, Ramirez announced the hiring of Italian-born Christian Lattanzio, an MLS vet-

eran who has worked with New York City FC as well as Manchester City of the English Premier League, as his assistant coach. Charlotte FC already has six players under contract, including Cary native Adam Armour. “Next year will be historic for the team and for all new and existing fans as we prepare toward a remarkable inaugural campaign,” Ramirez said in a statement released by the team. “I am committed to create an entertaining, competitive club with talented young players and a unique style of play, as we build a stronger soccer culture from North to South Carolina.”

Rising offense

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OP north STATEmen

virus, covered up its spread and tried to tell the world there were only 3,341 related deaths has led to worldwide panic, economic collapse and millions of Americans needlessly being thrown out of work. The crisis has cost the U.S. taxpayer at least $2.4 trillion in addedPerhaps debt plus trillions more in Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the COVID-19 markets and financial outlets. If the U.S. dollar were not the reserveis China’s currency, we would not be able to fund any of these emergency Chernobyl. measures without immediate fear of rampant inflation and currency depreciation. China has to pay for their aberrant ways and decisions through economic and financial means. Diplomacy has obviously not worked to bring China into the civilized world of 21st century health, hygiene and fair trade. Totalitarian communist regimes never take the blame or express sincere regret and remorse, because that is not what totalitarian governments do. They take advantage of every weakness they find in adversaries and keep pushing until they win or the adversaries push back. That is, unless an exogenous event happens such as the Chernobyl meltdown in 1986. Some experts believe that event, not the Star Wars program of Reagan, led directly to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1989. Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl. Senators in Washington are already talking about the possibility of China forgiving $1.2 trillion in debt we owe them as one way to get China to “pay” for the damage they have caused the US. Don’t hold your breath waiting for a Chinese “Jubilee” to happen but ask your elected representatives to hold China accountable in tangible financial ways for this disaster. It is about time they are expected to operate as responsible citizens of the world like any other modern nation.

worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over curve our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th centurythe alone canin bethe nove muted — after directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong flu,” 1977all, tr have abided “Russian flu” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence thatby therecom to stay at home; they massive 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. they’ve donned mask There is 100% agreement, outside China, that COVID-19 Weof need The result: a reduc originated in Wuhan Province probably from the completely transparency According to the Neal out Robbins, unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. Some believe it came of aUn Metrics and Evaluat and Chinese honesty Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior biowarfare lab run by the communist army.opinion editor administratio from our Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and Trump regulation of peak outbreak was r their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other scientific experts ventilators by nearly choice than to build redundant manufacturing elsewhere purely — we need to plantsAugust by nearly 12, for national security and safety reasons as well as supply and delivery know what they Here’s the problem reliability concerns. know, what they questions will a The most direct way to make China “pay” for this disaster is tothat offer First, what is the t and when U.S. tax credits to companies whodon’t will source at least half of their important because it theyThere hope to production back in the United States. is approximately $120 be open or closed, wh billion worth of American direct investment plants and equipment know what in they more in China. Chinese direct investment in the U.S. is about $65liberalized billion by soci don’t. ought to lock down f comparison. We’ve seen case fa An investment tax credit of 30% on half of U.S. investment in China the number of identi today, or $60 billion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing and the denominato investment to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in have tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion in lostpeople revenue is actually number has been ove decimal dust compared to the $6 trillion+ Marshall Plan we are now of death, particularly undertaking to save our own economy, not of defeated enemies as in the sources suggest the n past. many American people are dyi China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging Even import business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret more that they actually have corona intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and of identified cases co replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. number of people wh

Business & Economy

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VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

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It’s okay to ask questions about to this get back to normal The comfort How Chinawe willbegin payThe for COVID-19 3 big questionscatas nob EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HU COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home China lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner in which orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority Americans THIS WEEK, virus, according to members ofTHE theand fed ied to tell the world there were only “THIS IS DA around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this covered up its spread t are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, Americans have rldwide panic, economic collapse and in it” (Psalm 118:24) catastrophe one way or another. 3,341 related deaths has led to w Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. ce or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus thetoneed the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak. The being thrown out of work. I know that durin Inand order put the crisis causedVirginia’s by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero millions of Americans needlessly orders go into June. ty of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask muted — after all, trends can easily reverse — bu payer at least $2.4 trillion in added working from home worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, United States over Gov.The has cost the U.S. tax Here in North Democratic Roycrisis Cooper stated during normal.” questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to have abided by recommendations and orders. The Reserve backup liquidity to the be glad” the Bible our 231-year history. At least fourainrecent the 20th century alone be that “we debt plus trillions more Federa coronavirus press can briefing just don’t know yet”asifin the nd of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to flu,” stay 1977 at home; they’ve practiced socialthe distancin he U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve and dad, Easter directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong markets and financial outlets. If will extend into May. Since when did state’s stay-at-home orders They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept flu” without EVAN VUCCI | to AP PHOTO they’ve donned masks. fund any of these emergency have be thankful “Russian and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the currency, we would not be able to Perhaps If he to extend it, questions should be asked as to the Wedoes needdecide WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning per stated during question what government tellsan usexecutive about when it’saimed safe toatbegin the competition The result: aofreduction inHouse, expected hospitalizat Lenten and of rampant inflation currency pandemic. President Joeand Biden hands outthe a pen after signing order promoting in justification the economy, in the State Dining Room the White Friday, massive 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures without immediate fea for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we COVID-19 t know yet” of returning According to theseasons University of Washington Institi For me, my faith Julyif9,the 2021, inprocess Washington, D.C. back to normalcy. government There is 100% agreement, outside oftransparency China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must do this out an abundance Easter of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those Metrics and Evaluation model most oft cited by m ant ways and decisions through I celebra and honesty originated in at Wuhan Province probably from the has to pay forAs their aber provide a China all levels It will need tocompletely be explained in detail to the people ofmaking. this state who asked as to the questions. And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the Trump administration, the expected need for plomacy has obviously not worked Corinthians 1:4, hos whD Chernobyl. unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. believe it came of at a home economic and financial means. fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermined become a gue ones like “we country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by over 120,000 world of 21st century health, hygiene affliction, so that biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the civilized scientific amount of timeexperts why models predicting hundreds thousands of cases wew ratingthat to suppress or reduce hope we13,000 willof wages bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly and the number of ov unist regimes never take blame affliction, withcomm the c Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalitarian are reliable. benefits by enjoy sharing wage and bene— we need to once again of this state who when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand August by nearly 12,000. orse, because that is not what God.” That is what their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other or express sincere regret and rem fit information with one another. To know date, what I’ve gone what the state has asked and then they along with answers. Here’s the problem: Weagreements still don’t know the ans sporting events, yndetermined take advantage of every weakness If you are celebrat Noncompete often choice than tofree build redundant manufacturing totalitarian governments do. The citizens mandated thatplants we do,elsewhere but alongpurely the way I’ve also had questions about housands of cases Leaders at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they know, what they questions that will allow the economy to reopen. pushing until they win or the stop workers in a in variety of indusreflect on this concerts, family for national security safety reasons as well supply andleaders delivery they find adversaries andmessa keep the data. StateasRepublican have, too. living inand a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer triesisfrom going to other employers First, what the true coronavirus fatality and rate?c God’s example don’t and when reliability adversaries push back. gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with for higher Biden noted that inistime. society kedhappens and then with details that give their statements believability. important because itpay. determines whether certain ent such asThe the Chernobyl this difficult T The most direct waywere to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer That is, unless an exogenous ev they to disaster corruption. financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those church services some states even fast food franchisdbelieve questions about We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue — that event, not the Staropportunities Wars confident we will em supposed from COVID-19 offers for a U.S. tax credits to companies who will source at least half of their meltdown in 1986. Some experts know questioning data and asking when weclauses can start getting back With a heavy consumer es include such for low-wage tration thatwhat offersthey lotsthe of insights feesstill by continue internet companies. It also simply and many more Sponsored by Union and our communities safe. But we more on liberalized society that presumes wide spreat by should also o the dissolution of theourselves, Soviet In thisled same spiri bit of remediation. Let’s first examine whatworker Sponsored production back in the States. There is though approximately program of are Reagan, directly to do, lastUnited I workers. tothe normal as they are$120 conspiracy theorists or people who administration’s direction and calls on the Transportation Departand focus fueling don’t. after our own t asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock down further. mightisbe the root academic corruption, neighbors helping n billion of American direct in there plants and equipment inor1989. “Come on, are there trade sepriorities, but could be many ment toworth consider issuing rules re- investment otherwise don’t care if they get themselves others sick. about new checked. title of a recent study,speculation ehernobyl. to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an expiration date. We’ve seen case fatality rates — the number of C temporary In Concord, a hig crets about what’s inside the patty?” a slip between the cup and the lip.” quiring airlines to refund fees when in China. Chinese direct investment in the U.S. is about $65 billion by Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad federal regulations, business “Academic Grievance Studies and the North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020 start getting back This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, the number of identified COVID-19 cases — but eady talking about the possibility Biden Biden’s order includes flurry of living to buy aare 3-D baggage is delayed or in-flight ser- thing? sacrifices are society comparison. Senators inmoney Washington alb That is what freea citizens insaid. a free were supposed and groups quickly Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was trade are people who shape, or form. So while we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at The order also takes aim at tech consumer-pointed initiatives that vices are not provided as advertised. and the denominator are likely wrong. We don’t k debt we owe them as one way toand get analysisexpressed opposition, health$1.2 caretrillion workers An investment tax credit of 30% on of U.S. investment in China in over. of China forgiving tocould do,half last I checked. done by Areo, anto opinion Report: NC add giants Facebook, Google, Apple and potentially lead to new fedAt a White House signing cersick. the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new people have actually died of coronavirus. Some so y have caused US. Don’t hold your today, or $60 billion, applied to repatriated manufacturing China to “pay” damage digitalthe magazine. the way, Areo is short Myregulations, first American concern asalso we includes go along in all this, course, isfor mythe family. I’m th arguing that the order would Amazon byof calling for greater scrubut it emony, Biden said of some in big eral 300K jobs inaByspeech next ls become aAreopagitica, badbut number has beenbreath overestimated, given that classi lee” to happen ask normal.” your elected for delivered by investment to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in waiting for a Chinese them language catchingthat the virus, I’m worried I will. After “Jub stifle economic growth tiny ofand mergers, “especially by domplenty ofabout aspirational business: “Rather than competing worried ty were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patients, ountable in tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion in lost revenue is representatives to hold Chinacan acc decade inant parfrom theagencies H1N1 virus (swine flu)internet duringplatforms, the 2009with pandemic, simply encourages to take for consumers they are consuming suffering Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatically under decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan we are now this disaster. ticular attention to the acquisition action meant to bolster worker and their competitors; rather than combeen trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up RALEIGH More than Lindsay and— Peter Boghossian say has that e, to is my family. Stacey Matthews also writtenPress under the pseudonym Sister manyas people are dying home. ed operate as I’m responsible citizens of nascent serial mergconsumer protections. peting forToldjah workers theyour areown finding The Associated undertaking to save economy, notmany of defeated enemies inof the Itcompetitors, is at about time they expect way too memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to are repeat. 300,000 new jobs will be something has gone drastically wrong ied I will. After and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection. Even more importantly, we have nocomclue how m ation. created in North Carolina by ers, the accumulation of data, Business and trade groups quickways to gain the upper hand on lapast. the world like any other modern But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has in academia, especially within certain WASHINGTON, D.C. — Presi- bor.” 2009 pandemic, petition by ‘free’ products, and the sugges ly pirating expressedand opposition, arguing actually have coronavirus. Some scientists 2028, within most in the service-providing China has been cheating, stealing, pillaging American fields humanities. They calldent Joe Biden signed an executive effect on user privacy.” that the order would stifle econom“Let me be clear: Capitalism l of this brings up of identified cases could be an order magnitude industry sectors, according to now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that theyIn his executive order, Bidenofalso these fields “grievance studies,” whereorder on Friday targeting what he business the U.S. economy without competition isn’t capital- ic growth just as Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion new employment projections refer notscholarship to repeat. number of people who have had coronavirus and is not so much based uponlabeled anticompetitive practices in intend replace the superpower incoronavirus the world and calls on the Federal Maritime Comis recovering from the ism. It’sto exploitation,” heU.S. said.as the premier released by the North Carolina ost everyone has finding truth but upon attending to tech, health care and other parts of replace the dollar the reserve with their renminbi. mission to take action against shippandemic. The White Houseas said Biden’s or- currency Department of Commerce. Most

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social grievances. Grievance scholars the economy, declaring it would forindustry sectors operating in bully students, administrators and other tify an American ideal “that true the state are projected to grow, departments into adhering to their capitalism depends on fair and open with jobs in both health care worldview. The worldview they promote is and professional, scientific, and competition.” neither scientific nor rigorous. Grievance EDITORIAL technical fields expected to grow The sweeping order includes 72 | e studies consist of disciplines such as actions and recommendations that the most. sociology, anthropology, gender studies, “We have strong momentum Biden said would lower prices for queer studies, sexuality and creating thousands of good newcritical race families, increase wages for workers studies. jobs in North Carolina because and promote innovation and fastIn 2017 2018, authors of our worldand class workforce andPluckrose, er economic growth. However, new Lindsay andofBoghossian started high quality life,” said Governor regulations that agencies may write Roy Cooper. bogus “By projecting submitting academic papers toto translate his policy into rules our expected growth,inwe can academic journals cultural, queer, could trigger major legal battles. bettergender, recruit new industries and studies race, fat and sexuality The order includes calls for bancontinue to educate train pass our peer to determine if theyand would ning or limiting noncompete agreepeople to succeed as our state seriousness of and the be virus and the review accepted for need publication. ments to help boost wages, allowthrives.” Acceptance of dubious y with how people who simplyresearch ask that ing rule changes that would pave The Commerce Department editors found sympathetic to their en thingsjournal can start getting back to the way for hearing aids to be sold and its Labor & or Economic intersectional postmodern leftist vision s with contempt. over the counter at drugstores and Analysis Division (LEAD) publish of the world would prove the problem banning of excessive early termination a societylow simply must accept without industry and occupational academic standards. employment projections ls us about Several when it’s safefake to begin thepapers of the research every two years, offering malcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat insights to support planning us, and we have the right to ask those Studies journal published a hoax paper and decision making by job Since when did that argued the term bodybuilding was home orders areeducators, in place all over the seekers, business questioning andas should be replaced hem get exclusionary in states, such Michigan, leaders, workforce development with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive professionals, and policymakers. government eeling isolated and/or anxious about politicized performance.” One reviewer “Knowledge about the ng for their families, will demand at all levels said, “I thoroughly enjoyed makeup of our workforce is reading this NSJ staff article and believe it has an important power,” said North Carolina become a vels should be as forthcoming contribution to makeMachelle to as thethey field and this Commerce Secretary CARY, N.C. — American bad thing? semiagain, not vague answers, but answer Baker Sanders. “The data journal.” conductor manufacturing comrevealed in this extensive labor “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity what ents believability. pany BroadcomThat Inc isis in talks to market report will arm everyone Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to hat we can to keep our families, acquire software company SAS Infree citizens in our state with the knowledge Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was afe. But we should also still continue stitute Inc, it was reported Monday. they need for to plan and betterby Affilia, a living in a free accepted publication According to the Wall Street Journal ecause while reasonable stay-at-home prepare for the future.” feminist journal for social workers. The were and a handful ofsociety tech media outlets, y shouldpaper also have an expiration LEAD publishes consisted in10-year part of adate. rewrittenthe deal would close in the range of employment projections supposed nd it is not normal. Not in any way,Two other passage from Mein Kampf. $15 billion to $20 billion and could at the stateand regional d remainhoax vigilant stay safe, at including papersand were published, to do, lastcompaI close in coming weeks. Both levels in conjunction with the “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity mfortable with this so-called “new nies had remained silent on the U.S. Department of Labor’s checked. deal at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject as of Tuesday. Employment and Training was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape Industry analysts say that this is Administration. The employment paper eventually forced Boghossian, projections are an estimate of the Pluckrose and Lindsay tobased prematurely out future demand for workers under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer on historical employment data dState and Legal Insurrection. had figured out what they were doing. and various economic factors. Some accepted for publication Based papers on the occupational in academic projections, journals advocated training employment men like2028, dogsoccupations and punishing through that white male college historical slavery by require astudents master’s,for doctoral, or professional are asking them todegree sit in silence on the floor in projected to have the and fastest chains during class to be expected to annualfrom growth, higher Other papers learn theslightly discomfort. than those requiring a bachelor’s y celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life degree. and Three occupation choice advocated treating privately groups are projected to grow conducted masturbation as a form of the fastest – computer and sexual violence against women. Typically, mathematical, healthcare s academic journal editors send submitted support, and personal care and papers out to referees for review. In service. recommending acceptance for publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing praise. Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran certain grievance studies concepts through the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often

north STA

“Some of the actions announced pers that it says are “charging Amerder follows in the tradition of past presidents who took action to slow today are solutions in search of a ican exporters exorbitant charges” corporate power. Theodore Roo- problem,” said Jay Timmons, pres- and the Surface Transportation Jason to require railroad track sevelt’s administration broke up ident and CEO of the National As- Board STACEY MATTHEWS powerful trusts that had a grip on sociation of Manufacturers. “They owners to “strengthen their obligahuge swaths of the economy, includ- threaten to undo our progress by tions to treat other freight compaing Standard Oil and J.P. Morgan’s undermining free markets and are nies fairly.” COLUMN | REP. HUDSON The White House argues that on the false notion RICHARD that railroads. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s premised administration stepped up antitrust our workers are not positioned for rapid consolidation and sharp hikes in pricing in the shipping industry success.” enforcement in the 1930s. The order seeks to address non- have made it increasingly expenBut experts noted that Biden’s sprawling presidential initiative is compete clauses — an issue affect- sive for U.S. companies to get goods ing some 36 million to 60 million to market. In 2000, the largest 10 hardly a mandate on competition. “This is really more of a blueprint Americans, according to the White shipping companies controlled 12% or agenda than a traditional execu- House — by encouraging the Feder- of the market. They now control “THIS IS THEfallen DAY the lord made, WITH STATES shelter-in-place into place. I understand according tohas the Jour- let usthr al Trade Commission to or banstay-at-home or limit about 82%, tive order,”MOST said Daniel Crane,under a law either in it” (Psalm orders thanks local orofstate governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I’m unea nal 118:24). of Commerce. such agreements, ban unnecessary professor at the to University MichI know that during this challenging time of soc The World Shipping Council, an and occupational restrictions iganhaving who focuses on antitrust. are to adjust to what“This is being called the licensing “new normal.” questions about the data, wh working from home or losing a job, it diffi and strengthen antitrust is Some a very broad andorders ambitious poli-at least of these extend through the end of guidance this month. normal are treated inmay somebecircle to prevent collabocy agenda stay-at-home for the Biden adminisglad” asSee the Bible tells to do. as However, as aa BIDEN, page us B6 Virginia’s orders go into June. employers from be They’re treated though we

VISUAL VOICES

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

and dad, the Easter holiday hasthe reminded me ofte Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what government and of hopeful for, even m a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful process returning back in to the norm and pandemic. state’s stay-at-home orders will extendLenten into May. No. The government works for me, my faith is an important part ofstay-at my da Easter seasons If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked asFor to the questions. And the longer making. As I celebrated my family, justification for it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like “we country,Easter and thewith stricter some ofI provide Corinthians 1:4, the which reminds our Lord “com must do this out of an abundance of caution.” more people,us sitting at home message of affliction, so thatwhen we may becan able toback comfort thos It will need to be explained in detailhope to the people of this state who they get to provid that we will pivoted fromwhich a traditional and security in line with Broadcom’s enterprise mation, monitoring affliction,cently with the comfort we ourselves a are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. client-server software to become a components, software businesses– especially its smartphone once again enjoy telecoms God.”of cases amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands Leaders at the local and state l factory automation. Largely subscription-based SaaS company. products from acquired companies and sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter season, I urge are reliable. can be with those answers CA Technologies and Symantec. built through acquisitions, Broad- With more than 12,000 employees — and reflect this message and comforted, that concerts, family date, I’ve gone along state has asked and with details that givesells theirso statem the world, SASbe Institute comthe has reportedly been onthen the onacross TheTopotential acquisition willwith en- what God’s example andbusiness-intelligence comfort in need arou analytics, and hunt forI’ve more deals ever since Presable Broadcom towe expand its inframandated that do, but along the way also had questions about We shouldallallthose continue to do w gatherings, this difficult time. Through faith and by helping o data management software. The Donald Trump blocked its structure solutions busithe data. software State Republican leadersident have, too. ourselves, and our communities s church services company competes with the likes pursuit in 2018 to get buy asked, rival confident companess. we willtoemerge out of this pandemic strb Unfortunately, when certain types ofand questions there is ask questions about the data, manyInc., more Microsoft, Oracle, SAP, stating security Broadcom is a global leader in ny Qualcomm this of IBM, same spirit, I continue to be inspired th by sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treatInthose measures are has understandable, Tableau and Tibco, and customthe semiconductor and infrastruc- risks.after our own neighbors helping neighbors. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all new to Americans, a Founded in 1976, SAS Insti- ers in 147 countries spread across ture software solutions industry. temporary In Concord, a high school senior named Tanne to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who shape, or form. So while we shou According to its website, its capabil- tute is the Cary-based business an- several industries, including bankbuyhealthcare, a 3-D printer and plastic to make f sacrifices are otherwise care if they get themselves or others sick. money the same time shouldn’t get co retail andwe manufacalytics software developer found- toing, ities include don’t data center networking health care workers out of his own home. ed byover. NC State Sall and andSince storage, enterprise and main-government when did questioning at allalums levelsJohn become a bad normal.” Jamesin Goodnight. The company re- See SAS, page frame focused auto- living thing?software That is what freeoncitizens a free society were supposed NotB6 one little bit. to do, last I checked. My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m Stacey Matthews has also written worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contributor to R suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) 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. But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has

Global software company to acquire SAS, say insiders

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North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

ncdot CASH REPORT For the week ending 7/9 Total Cash & Bond Proceeds:

$2,562,034,635 Add Receipts:

$81,982,287 Less Disbursements:

$94,305,949 Reserved Cash:

$541,644,172 Unreserved Cash Balance Total:

$5,530,844,948 BIDEN from page B5 industry trade group, pushed back in a statement that “normalized demand, not regulation,” is the way to answer rising costs. “There is no market concentration ‘problem’ to ‘fix,’ and punitive measures levied against carriers based on incorrect economic assumptions will not fix the congestion problems,” said John Butler, president and CEO of the council. The order also notes that over the past two decades the U.S. has lost 70% of the banks it once had, with around 10,000 bank closures. Communities of color and rural areas have reportedly been affected disproportionately. To begin addressing the trend, the order encourages the Justice Department as well as the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to update guidelines to provide greater scrutiny of mergers. It also encourages the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to issue rules allowing customers to download their banking data and take it with them when they switch. The order includes several provisions that could affect the agricultural industry. It calls on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consider issuing new rules defining when meat can use “Product of USA” labels. It also encourages the FTC to limit farm equipment manufacturers’ ability to restrict the use of independent repair shops or doit-yourself repairs — such as when tractor companies block farmers from repairing their own tractors. Democratic lawmakers and union leaders cheered the order. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Competition Policy, said that Biden’s executive order needs to be buttressed by congressional action. “Competition policy needs new energy and approaches so that we can address America’s monopoly problem,” Klobuchar said. “That means legislation to update our antitrust laws, but it also means reimagining what the federal government can do to promote competition under our current laws.”

MODERNA VIA AP

This 2019 photo provided by Moderna shows the company’s President Stephen Hoge in his office in Cambridge, Mass.

Lenovo launches campaign to assist small businesses with investment and mentorship NSJ staff RALEIGH — Global tech leader Lenovo, headquartered in Morrisville, has announced details for Evolve Small, a campaign focused on providing relief to small businesses recovering from the impact of COVID-19 in cities across North America. According to a press release Monday, Lenovo’s commitment includes $1 million in grant funding and support to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color-owned (BIPOC) small businesses. In partnership with Microsoft and Intel, Lenovo will provide mentorship and community engagement, that is designed to help small businesses rebuild and achieve long-term success. Additionally, The NFL’s Carolina Panthers will support Lenovo’s Evolve Small campaign in the Carolinas by awarding 10 small businesses with technology upgrades and providing one small business with a $100,000 advertising sponsorship during the upcoming NFL season. According to a National Small Business Association member survey, three out of four small

business owners were very concerned about the economic impact of COVID-19 as soon as the pandemic hit. Almost half had already seen reduced customer demand, and 38 percent were not confident in the financial future of their business. Through the Evolve Small program, Lenovo will provide support to more than 60 companies throughout 2021 in seven geographically diverse cities, including: Austin, Tex.; Chicago, Ill.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Seattle, Wash.; Raleigh, N.C. and Toronto, Canada. “Small businesses are the heart of our local communities. They are there to feed us, connect us and bring us joy, yet many have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said John Bischof, executive director, North American Commercial Category at Lenovo. “We are amplifying our contributions through ‘Evolve Small’ to reinvigorate economies and help small businesses grow, and we encourage everyone to join us in supporting small. Whether it’s a reoccurring visit to their store or tag on social media, let’s champion our neighbors – because when

they thrive, we all thrive.” In fulfilling the program’s mission to “advance equity and increase economic mobility in North America,” Lenovo has partnered with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), a U.S. non-profit community development financial institution. “It’s impossible to overstate the importance of small businesses to the nation’s economic recovery,” said Lisa Glover, LISC president and CEO. “Especially in communities where discrimination has long impacted the outlook, entrepreneurs have faced steep barriers to business financing, as well as to relief funding during COVID-19. Companies like Lenovo are using their capital to help bridge that gap, protecting jobs and local incomes, while helping entrepreneurs build for the future.” Company officials say Lenovo’s technology consultants will offer guidance to BIPOC-owned small businesses, providing them with solutions and advice on how to better leverage technology to grow and evolve their companies. Three of Lenovo’s small business consultants will provide technology solutions advice to six Black-

owned businesses in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul and their guidance will be captured in season six of an original television series by Deluxe called “Small Business Revolution,” airing this November. “Deluxe and Lenovo share a common goal to use technological and digital advancements to drive meaningful growth for small businesses,” said Amanda Brinkman, Chief Brand and Content Officer for Deluxe and creator and cohost of the series. “Through the Small Business Revolution, Deluxe is shining a light on the incredible power small businesses have in helping their communities thrive. As a Trusted Business Technology™ company, Deluxe is eager to work with experts from Lenovo to advance how we support small businesses across the country.” In addition to the $1 million in grants, Lenovo will donate $5 for every unique use of the hashtag #EvolveSmall via Instagram, up to $50K incremental funds for the LISC support funds. Visit Lenovo.com/EvolveSmall to learn more about the Evolve Small efforts, resources and technology solutions.

SAS from page B5 turing. The company’s software is used by more than 83,000 business, government and university sites, according to its website. After a 50 percent rise in its share value in the past one year, Broadcom’s market value stands at $200 billion. Additionally, Broadcom’s stock reportedly rose one percent as news of the potential acquisition broke. The acquisition of SAS will reportedly accord Broadcom access to crucial analytics business intelligence and data management software that SAS currently sells. According to industry insiders, Broadcom is increasingly investing in enterprise software offerings as it looks to appeal to more business customers and compete with the likes of Microsoft. Tech analysts noted in reports Monday that Broadcom’s potential acquisition of SAS Institute is not surprising, as Broadcom has grown to become a semiconductor powerhouse on the back of a string of acquisitions. In 2018, it struck a $19 billion deal for CA Technologies, followed by the acquisition of the enterprise software division of Symantec Corp., now known as NortonLifeLock for about $10.7 billion the following year.

MODERNA VIA AP

This 2019 photo provided by Moderna shows the company’s President Stephen Hoge in his office in Cambridge, Mass.

US consumer prices surge in June by the most since 2008 The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Prices for U.S. consumers jumped in June by the most in 13 years, extending a run of higher inflation and fueling concerns that the rapidly rebounding economy is making goods and services increasingly expensive. Tuesday’s report from the Labor Department showed that consumer prices in June rose 0.9% from May and 5.4% over the past year — the sharpest 12-month inflation spike since August 2008. Excluding volatile oil and gas prices, so-called core inflation rose 4.5% in the past year, the largest increase since November 1991. The pickup in inflation, which has coincided with the economy’s rapid recovery from the pandem-

ic recession, has heightened concerns that the Federal Reserve might feel compelled to begin withdrawing its low-interest rate policies earlier than expected. If so, that would risk weakening the economy and potentially derailing the recovery. Fed officials have repeatedly said, though, that they regard the surge in inflation as a temporary response to supply shortages and other shortterm disruptions as the economy quickly bounces back. The jump in prices stems in many cases from a shortage of components and goods throughout the economy, from semiconductors to used cars, as well as surging demand from consumers who are increasingly traveling, shopping and eating out — and too few workers to serve them. Wages

have increased sharply as a result, along with restaurant meals, airline fares and hotel rates. Last month alone, average used car prices soared 10.5% — the largest such monthly increase since record-keeping began in January 1953. That spike accounted for about one-third of the monthly increase for the third straight month. Hotel room prices soared 7% in June. And the cost of new cars leapt 2%, the biggest monthly increase since May 1981. Auto prices have soared because the shortage of semiconductors has forced car makers to scale back production. Restaurant prices rose 0.7% in June and 4.2% in the past year, a sign that many companies are raising prices to offset higher labor costs. So far, investors have largely accepted the Fed’s belief that higher inflation will be shortlived, with bond yields signaling that inflation concerns on Wall Street are fading. Bond inves-

tors now expect inflation to average 2.4% over the next five years, down from 2.7% in mid-May. Americans’ longer-term views on inflation have also leveled off. A survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, released Monday, found that consumers expect inflation to remain near 5% a year from now. But they expect inflation to be 3.5% three years from now, down slightly from last month. Consumers typically overestimate future inflation. The public’s expectations of inflation are important, because they can be self-fulfilling. If consumers foresee higher prices, they are likely to demand higher pay, and businesses will try to charge more to offset their higher costs. The Fed is aiming for inflation to exceed its target of 2% for some time to make up for the fact that inflation fell below that level for most of the past decade. The Fed wants inflation to average 2% over time to prevent Americans’ inflation expectations from falling too low.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

auto

US agency orders automated vehicle makers to report crashes The Associated Press DETROIT — The U.S. government’s highway safety agency has ordered automakers to report any crashes involving fully autonomous vehicles or partially automated driver assist systems. The move Tuesday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates the agency is taking a tougher stance on automated vehicle safety than in the past. It has been reluctant to issue any regulations of the new technology for fear of hampering adoption of the potentially life-saving systems. The order requires vehicle and equipment manufacturers and companies that operate the vehicles to report crashes on public roads involving fully autonomous vehicles, or those in which driver assist systems were operating immediately before or during a crash. “By mandating crash reporting, the agency will have access to critical data that will help quickly identify safety issues that could emerge in these automated systems,” NHTSA Acting Administrator Steven Cliff said in a statement. The agency says it will look for potential safety defects, and the information could cause it to send out a crash investigation team or open a defect investigation. The order comes after NHTSA has dispatched special investigation teams to 31 crashes involving partially automated driver assist systems since June of 2016. Such systems can keep a vehicle centered in its lane and a safe distance from vehicles in front of it. Of those crashes, 25 involved Tesla’s Autopilot system in which 10 deaths were reported, according to data released by the agency. Tesla and other manufacturers warn that drivers using the systems must be ready to intervene at all times. Teslas using the system have crashed into semis crossing in front of them, stopped emergency vehicles and a roadway barrier. The agency also is investigating non-fatal crashes involving partially automated systems in a Lexus RX450H, a Volvo XC-90, and two Cadillac CT6s. In addition, teams investigated crashes involving an automated Navya Arma low-speed shuttle, and another Volvo XC90 operated by Uber in which a pedestrian was killed in Arizona. The National Transportation Safety Board, which also has investigated some of the Tesla crashes, has recommended that NHTSA and Tesla limit Autopilot’s use to areas where it can safely operate. The NTSB also recommended that NHTSA require Tesla to have a better system to make sure drivers are paying attention. NHTSA has not taken action on any of the recommendations. Jason Levine, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, an advocacy group, said the crash reporting is a welcome first step by NHTSA. The center has been asking the agency to oversee automated vehicles for several years. “Collecting crash data, and hopefully data from crashes which were avoided, can help serve a variety of purposes from enforcing current laws, to ensuring the safety of consumers, as well as paving the way for reasonable regulations to encourage the deployment of safe advanced vehicle technology,” Levine said in an email. Companies have to report crashes involving fully autonomous or partially automated vehicles within one day of learning about them, if they involve a hospital-treated injury, a death, air bag deployment, pedestrians or bicyclists, or were serious enough for a vehicle to be towed away. Other crashes involving vehicles equipped with the systems involving injury or property damage have to be reported every month. The requirement does not apply to consumers who own vehicles or auto dealers. NHTSA says in a statement that the data can show if there are common patterns in crashes involving the systems.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE

Gigi and Glenn Moss celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with two new Rolls-Royces, each customized with engraved dates and places significant to the couple.

Celebrating a 40th wedding anniversary the Rolls-Royce way This couple bought themselves the best ruby anniversary gifts ever

By Jordan Golson North State Journal IRVINE, Calif — Glenn and Gigi Moss are impossible to dislike. I spent less than half a day with them and it’s obvious that they still love each other as much today as they did when they first got together back in 1976. 45 years is a long time for any couple to stay together, especially when you meet as teenagers (she was 17, he was 15). But their relationship blossomed and turned into children, grandchildren, and a successful third-generation auto dealer business in Riverside, California. And when it came time to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary, Glenn decided to go big. Really big. It’s important to pause for a moment to talk about two things. First, Rolls-Royce very, very rarely talks about the customers who commission its automobiles. In fact, this is the only time in all my years of covering cars that I’ve ever been introduced to a Rolls-Royce owner by the company. So, when Rolls-Royce PR invited me up to Orange County to meet Glenn and Gigi, I jumped at the opportunity. Second, the couple are not what you think of when you imagine a typical Rolls-Royce buyer. The Phantom starts at more than $500,000 and rises sharply from there as you add options on. And a special Rolls-Royce Collection car like the Phantom Tempus that Glenn purchased likely cost more than $750,000. It’s rare for a first-time Rolls-

Royce buyer to pick up a Phantom at all, never mind a limited edition car like this. Glenn has been in the car business all his life, thanks to his family’s dealerships, but until a few years ago had never ridden in a Rolls — never mind thought about buying one. He’s not a Kardashian or Middle Eastern royalty. He’s a successful car dealer in Riverside. He’s the type of guy you’d want to have a beer with, not one you’d expect to have one of the most expensive automobiles in the world. But a partnership between Rolls-Royce and American Express saw Glenn and Gigi loaned a Rolls-Royce Dawn (the convertible one) for a day a few years ago. “This is a different world,” Glenn told me in an interview. “I’m a car dealer and I’ve driven a lot of cars and I’d never experienced something like that.” “I love Honda and Toyota and Chrysler,” he said, naming off the car brands that enabled his automotive purchases. “But that’s just a different world.” After a few years, Glenn finally decided to buy himself a Phantom as an anniversary present, despite never having even ridden in one. The only Rolls he had ever driven was the Dawn on that oneday loan years earlier, but he knew he wanted the best. Kellyn Dixon, his Rolls-Royce salesperson, was shocked. She didn’t realize that he had effectively bought a threequarters-of-a-million dollar car without ever trying it out. “I didn’t need to,” Glenn answered simply. “He’s been in the car business all his life and [individual] cars don’t mean anything to him,” Gigi told me. “Except for the ones that do.” Despite her husband’s job, Gigi was never really into cars. She was a kindergarten teacher, and all her

cars were on dealer plates. If someone wanted to buy her car, it got sold right out from under her. “I get it Monday, it can be sold on Thursday,” she explained. “I’ve never been attached to my cars.” Even before they owned the car dealerships, Gigi had never owned a new car — she only had hand-medowns from her brothers, before getting dealership demo cars for the last few decades. That means her Hellrot (bright red, in German) Black Badge RollsRoyce Dawn was Gigi’s first-ever new car. “For the first time, I’ve picked out my own car,” Gigi told me animatedly. “These are the first cars I’ve gotten excited about. They’re our cars.” Though she knew about the Phantom, he took a surprise turn into the Rolls-Royce dealership for her to pick out her car too. “I thought we were going grocery shopping and we drove into the dealership,” she said. “Glenn said ‘I’m going to buy you a car,’ and I tried to get out of it... a little bit.” Rolls-Royce Collection cars are very special to the company. Instead of building cars to a particular customer’s wishes (a bespoke commission), Collection vehicles are entirely handled by the company’s in-house design team. The Phantom Tempus was inspired by time, space, and Albert Einstein — a quote from the famous physicist is emblazoned on a plaque in the glovebox: “The distinction between past, present, and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion.” The interior roof is covered with a must-be-seen-to-be-believed embroidered and painted interpretation of a pulsar star. The incredible Starlight Headliner has been customized to fit the theme, and, for the first time, thousands of

additional Starlight fiber optic cables have been fitted to the doors so they glow as well. On the dash is a sculpture with 100 individual columns, carved from a single piece of aluminum, to represent the 100-million year rotational period of a pulsar star. The Phantom Tempus is also the first modern Rolls-Royce to omit an analog clock from the dashboard, an absence intended to remind owners that they are not bound by time. Beneath the solid silver Spirit of Ecstasy, the winged emblem of Rolls-Royce at the front of the Phantom’s bonnet, is engraved the date and latitude and longitude where Glenn and Gigi first met. Not to be outdone, Gigi’s RollsRoyce Dawn has a Spirit of Ecstasy carved from carbon fiber, with a different date and coordinates engraved on it. This time, it’s commemorating the time and place of their wedding 40 years ago. That makes these cars a matched set, and likely something unique for Rolls-Royce. Typically Collection cars like the Phantom Tempus have very strict guidelines on what can be changed so as to not detract from the hard work of the design team. But Glenn made more changes to his Phantom than perhaps any other Collection buyer ever, the Rolls-Royce team told me. He changed the exterior color (to a triple-clear coat Alpine White with tiny crystals embedded in the topcoat to make it glitter in the sun), the hand-painted coachline, the interior color, and several other decorative components. It apparently took meetings upon meetings to convince the design team to allow it, but, in the end, Glenn got his car just the way he wanted it. And he finally got to drive it, too. Glenn told me over email that his new Phantom was “absolutely the most amazing vehicle I’ve ever driven,” and that, like with the Dawn a few years ago, “it was like floating on a cloud.” He finished by noting that, between his wife and his cars, “my true thoughts are how lucky I really am.”

New auto sales, prices rise as chip shortage cuts US supply The Associated Press U.S. CONSUMERS continued to spend wildly on new automobiles in the second quarter, pushing sales up 50.2% over last year despite tight dealer inventories and record high prices. Automakers sold about 4.43 million vehicles from April through June, a figure 0.4% lower than in 2019, the last normal year before the coronavirus pandemic hit. Despite the big jump from a year ago, there were signs that sales were slowing toward the end of the quarter, mostly because dealers had few vehicles to sell. A global shortage of computer chips has forced most automakers to cut production. But demand is still high as the pandemic wanes and people look to buy vehicles for family road trips. “Unfortunately the chipset and inventory shortages really came to a head and outstripped supply in June,” said Edmunds.com director of insights Jessica Caldwell. “This

isn’t a problem that’s going away anytime soon.” Consumers desperate for new vehicles often paid over the sticker price, pushing the average sales price in June above $40,000 for the first time, according to J.D. Power. Automakers cut discounts, but still sold vehicles. On average they had enough inventory to supply only 39 days of sales, down from 93 days a year ago, J.D. Power said. That means automobiles almost certainly will again be a big part of national price inflation. When new vehicle prices rise, many buyers are chased into the used market, and that drives up used vehicle prices, which accounted for one-third of a large rise in consumer prices in May. Prices shot up a record 10% in April and another 7.3% in May, as inflation spiked 5%, the biggest 12-month increase since 2008. Some analysts see sales falling in the second half of the year as supplies dwindle. Some dealers are nearly out of vehicles to

AP PHOTO

This Nov. 15, 2020 photo shows a long row of unsold used Highlander sports-utility vehicles sits at a Toyota dealership in Englewood, Colo. sell. “Too few vehicles in inventory is preventing the industry from sustaining the phenomenal sales pace seen in recent months,” said Thomas King, president of analytics at J.D. Power. Analysts say the chip shortage will start to ease in the third quarter, but it won’t be gone completely until sometime next year. Still, the high prices mean big profits for automakers because they don’t have to discount vehicles, and they’ve all but stopped selling to rental car companies, which tend to pay less due to bulk

discounts. “Automakers are in the unusual position of having less inventory than demand, which is supporting strong pricing that may help offset lower revenue typically associated with lower sales,” said Stephanie Brinley, principal automotive analyst at IHS Markit. In the second quarter, General Motors sales grew 39.7% from a year earlier, while Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler) sales rose 32.2%. Toyota climbed 73.1%, and Nissan fell 68.1%. Ford is scheduled to report sales on Friday.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

2021 GMC Canyon AT4

PHOTOS COURTESY GMC

An off-road truck that looks excellent on-road But it faces stiff competition elsewhere By Jordan Golson North State Journal SAN DIEGO — Pickup trucks have been popular in the US for decades, but for many years they were primarily work vehicles. They were tough and rugged and built to haul. When my grandfather bought a new Chevy farm truck more than 30 years ago, he was disappointed to learn that he couldn’t buy one without a radio. He wanted the farmhands to be working, not sitting in the truck listening to music. And now we sure have gone the other way. Some of the most expensive new vehicles on the road are trucks, with Ford selling luxurious trims with names like Platinum and Limited. But GMC has perhaps the best luxury truck trim of all: Denali. Denali is a massive brand for GMC, and I’ve met more than a few owners who say they didn’t buy a GMC truck — they purchased a Denali. And the lux focus has served them well. However, at some point in the past few years, the marketing wizards at General Motors saw a pickup truck market filling up with fancy off-road truck packages. Ford now has the Tremor, and RAM offers the Power Wagon. Of course, GMC needed something to compete and came up with AT4. It stands for All-Terrain 4 (as in four-wheel drive), and I tested the GMC Canyon AT4 this week. Though I didn’t take it off-road, I have a much more critical verdict to deliver: it looks fantastic. This is a significant thing in an off-road truck. Most of them will never go off-road, beyond perhaps a dirt forest trail that a Toyota Camry could make easy work of. So, for many people, the look of the truck is what really matters. It’s why people go put huge lift kits on their trucks. They want gigantic tires and gigantic attitude, and they don’t care that it makes their trucks inefficient and a safety hazard to them and everyone else on the road. GMC got this memo loud and clear, as the Canyon is slathered in cosmetic upgrades (and a few functional ones as well). The stock Canyon AT4 is $40,000 and includes a twospeed transfer case, an off-road suspension package with auto-

matic locking rear differential, protective plates over the transfer case, and more. It’s a nicely equipped vehicle. But add on the AT4 Off-Road Performance Edition Package for $3,195, and you get all sorts of neat upgrades. There’s a sprayon bed liner, off-road rock rails, a suspension leveling kit, the 17inch gloss black wheels, black AT4 badges, a black exhaust tip, and front- and mid-skid plates. OK, yes, a couple of those are functional, but the really important stuff is all those black trim pieces. My truck came in Summit White which made all the black accent pieces shine. The large, knobby off-road tires lifted the truck nicely, and the subtle mix of chrome (on the GMC logo and front grille) and black trim (most everywhere else) pieces popped. And don’t forget the bright red tow hooks at the front, an AT4 staple. When it comes to looks, the Canyon AT4 is a clear winner. But what about everywhere else? Well, the V6 under the hood is adequate but uninspiring, and the interior is dated and in need of a refresh. But it does have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto paired with a Bose stereo, as well as OnStar and built-in AT&T 4G LTE-powered Wi-Fi which is standard in all GM vehicles these days. What would granddad have thought about that feature, I wonder? It’s not the most safety-conscious vehicle, with lane departure warning and forward collision warning available in the $395 Driver Alert package. I cannot fathom how these features (and a lot more besides) are not standard now in a modern vehicle. If you buy a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro (an excellent competitor for this particular vehicle), for example, you get Toyota’s full safety suite standard. That’s automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more, all included in the price. But GM continues to hide safety features in top-tier trim packages that buyers need to pay extra for, which is disappointing. But aside from these foibles, the Canyon AT4 is a terrific-looking mid-size truck with bright red tow hooks and off-road chops to match. It will likely easily handle whatever its owners throw at it, and if it can’t, there are a litany of aftermarket upfitters only too happy to improve on GMC’s work. I don’t know if they’ll be able to make it look better, though.

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Billionaire Richard Branson reaches space in his own ship The Associated Press TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. — Swashbuckling billionaire Richard Branson hurtled into space aboard his own winged rocket ship Sunday, bringing astro-tourism a step closer to reality and beating out his exceedingly richer rival Jeff Bezos. The nearly 71-year-old Branson and five crewmates from his Virgin Galactic space-tourism company reached an altitude of 53.5 miles (86 kilometers) over the New Mexico desert — enough to experience three to four minutes of weightlessness and witness the curvature of the Earth — and then glided back home to a runway landing. “The whole thing, it was just magical,” a jubilant Branson said on his return aboard the gleaming white space plane, named Unity. The brief, up-and-down flight — the space plane’s portion took only about 15 minutes, or about as long as Alan Shepard’s first U.S. spaceflight in 1961 — was a splashy and unabashedly commercial plug for Virgin Galactic, which plans to start taking paying customers on joyrides next year. Branson became the first person to blast off in his own spaceship, beating Bezos, the richest person on the planet, by nine days. He also became the second septuagenarian to go into space. Astro-

naut John Glenn flew on the shuttle at age 77 in 1998. Bezos sent his congratulations, adding: “Can’t wait to join the club!” — though he also took to Twitter a couple of days earlier to enumerate the ways in which he believes his company’s tourist rides will be better. With about 500 people watching, including Branson’s family, Unity was carried aloft underneath a twin-fuselage aircraft. Then, at an altitude of about 8 1/2 miles (13 kilometers), Unity detached from the mother ship and fired its engine, reaching more than Mach 3, or three times the speed of sound, as it pierced the edge of space. Spectators cheered, jumped into the air and embraced as the rocket plane touched down on Earth. Branson pumped his fists as he stepped out onto the runway and ran toward his family, bear-hugging his wife and children and scooping up his grandchildren in his arms. Mike Moses, a top executive at Virgin Galactic, said that apart from some problems with the transmission of video images from inside the cabin, the flight was perfect, and the ship looked pristine. “That was an amazing accomplishment,” former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, a one-time commander of the Inter-

national Space Station, said from the sidelines. “I’m just so delighted at what this open door is going to lead to now. It’s a great moment.” Virgin Galactic conducted three previous test flights into space with crews of just two or three. The flamboyant, London-born founder of Virgin Atlantic Airways wasn’t supposed to fly until later this summer. But he assigned himself to an earlier flight after Bezos announced plans to ride his own rocket into space from Texas on July 20, the 52nd anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Branson denied he was trying to outdo Bezos. Branson’s other chief rival in the space-tourism race among the world’s richest men, SpaceX’s Elon Musk, came to New Mexico to watch and congratulated Branson for a “beautiful flight.” Bezos’ Blue Origin company intends to send tourists past the socalled Karman line 62 miles (100 kilometers) above Earth, which is recognized by international aviation and aerospace federations as the threshold of space. But NASA, the Air Force, the Federal Aviation Administration and some astrophysicists consider the boundary between the atmosphere and space to begin 50 miles (80 kilometers) up. The risks to Branson and his crew were underscored in 2007,

when a rocket motor test in California’s Mojave Desert left three workers dead, and in 2014, when a Virgin Galactic rocket plane broke apart during a test flight, killing one pilot and seriously injuring the other. Ever the showman, Branson insisted on a global livestream of the Sunday morning flight and invited celebrities and former space station astronauts to the company’s Spaceport America base in New Mexico. R&B singer Khalid performed his new single “New Normal” — a nod to the dawning of space tourism — while CBS “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert served as master of ceremonies. Before climbing aboard, Branson, who has kite-surfed the English Channel and attempted to circle the world in a hot-air balloon, signed the astronaut log book and wisecracked: “The name’s Branson. Sir Richard Branson. Astronaut Double-ohone. License to thrill.” But asked afterward whether he is planning any more adventures, Branson said he will “definitely give it a rest for the time being” because “I’m not sure it would be fair to put my family through another one.” He said he thinks he holds the record for being pulled out of the sea five times by helicopter. Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 reservations from

would-be space tourists, with tickets initially costing $250,000 apiece. And upon his return to Earth, Branson announced a sweepstakes drawing for two seats on a Virgin Galactic jaunt. Blue Origin is waiting for Bezos’ flight before announcing its ticket prices. Kerianne Flynn, who signed up in 2011 to fly with Virgin Galactic, had butterflies ahead of the launch Sunday. “I think there’s going to be nothing like going up there and looking back down on the Earth, which is what I think I’m most excited about,” she said. She added: “Hopefully the next generations will be able to explore what’s up there.” Blue Origin and Musk’s SpaceX both fly Apollo-style, using capsules atop rockets, instead of an air-launched, reusable space plane. SpaceX, which is already launching astronauts to the space station for NASA and building moon and Mars ships, plans to take tourists on more than just brief, up-and-down trips. Customers will instead go into orbit around the Earth for days, with seats costing well into the millions. The company’s first private flight is set for September. Musk himself has not committed to going into space anytime soon.

The rocket plane carrying Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson and other crew members takes off from Spaceport America.

PHOTOS BY ANDRES LEIGHTON | AP PHOTO

Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson carries crew member Sirisha Bandla on his shoulders while celebrating their flight to space at Spaceport America near Truth or Consequences, N.M., Sunday, July 11, 2021.

In this photo provided by Virgin Galactic, the VSS Unity’s rocket motor burns above the Earth on Sunday, July 11, 2021.

TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 16 CVS 3702 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CABARRUS Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Long Beach Mortgage Loan Trust 2004-1, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-1, Plaintiff, vs. Kenneth Strong; Earonita Strong; Guardian Ad Litem for Minor, Incompetent and Unknown Heirs to the Estate of William Henry Phillips, and for Minor, Incompetent, and Unknown Heirs to the Estate of Bobby K. Strong; Patsy K. Phillips; William H. Phillips, Jr.; Rodney S. Phillips; Arlene Blackmon; KenBill Properties, Inc.; Catherine Richardson; Gwen Smith; Crystal Williams; Barbara Williams; The United States of America,

CUMBERLAND 20 SP 230 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Collin L. Sumrall to Trste, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated October 14, 2004 and recorded on October 27, 2004 in Book 6695 at Page 052, 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

Defendants. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, Commissioner, pursuant to the Order/Judgment entered in the above-captioned case on December 18, 2020 (“Order”), and by virtue of the appointment, power and authority contained in that Order, has been authorized and ordered to sell the property commonly known as 10210 Culpepper Court, Harrisburg, NC 28075 (“Property”). Said Property is secured by the Deed of Trust executed by Kenneth Strong and Earonita F. Strong, dated July 11, 2003 and recorded on August 11, 2003 in Book 15887 at Page 353 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on October 10, 2007 in Book 07845, Page 008 and rerecorded/modified/ corrected on August 30, 2010 in Book 09268, Page 135 and rerecorded/modified/corrected on February 12, 2021 in Book 14909, Page 0045 of the Cabarrus County, North Carolina Registry. The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by Kenneth Strong, and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Long Beach Mortgage Loan Trust 2004-1, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2004-1. The Commissioner will offer for sale to the highest bidder at a public auction at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 19, 2021 at 01:00 PM

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 July 28, 2021 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: ALL THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CROSS CREEK IN THE COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND AND STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA AND BEING DESCRIBED IN A DEED DATED 03/20/1981 AND RECORDED 03/20/1981 IN BOOK 2811 PAGE 568 AMONG THE LAND RECORDS OF THE COUNTY AND STATE SET FORTH ABOVE AND REFERENCED AS FOLLOWS: LOT 9, SUBDIVISION GODWIN-NORMAN PROPERTY, PLAT BOOK 11, PLAT PAGE 14. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Cabarrus County, North Carolina and described as follows: BEING ALL OF LOT 34 OF BRITLEY SUBDIVISION, PHASE II, AS SAME IS SHOWN ON MAP THEREOF RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 25 AT PAGE 47, CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. The above described property will be sold, transferred and conveyed “AS IS, WHERE IS” subject to liens or encumbrances of record which are superior to such Deed of Trust, together with all unpaid taxes and assessments and any recorded releases. Neither the Commissioner nor the holder of the debt secured by such Deed of Trust, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Commissioner or the holder of the debt make any representation of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health, or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such conditions expressly are disclaimed. The Commissioner shall convey title to the property by non-warranty deed, without any covenants or warranties, express or implied. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 1-339.29 (c) in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the judge or

clerk of superior court of the 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. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current record owners of the property as reflected on the records of the CABARRUS COUNTY Register of Deeds’ office not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are Kenneth Strong. A cash deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchasing price will be required at the time of the sale. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price of bid in cash or certified check at the time the Commissioner tenders a deed for the Property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price of bid at that time, said bidder shall remain liable on said bid as provided for under North Carolina law.

Said property is commonly known as 2008 Rock Ave and 2008 1/2 Rock Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28303-7012.

undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Collin L. Sumrall.

A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

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

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return

The sale will be reported to the court and will remain open for advance or upset bids for a period of ten (10) days as required by law. If the Commissioner 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 Commissioner. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Commissioner, 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.

TRUSTEE SERVICES OF CAROLINA, LLC, Commissioner c/o 5431 Oleander Drive, Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 202-2800 Phone (888) 207-9353 Facsimile

of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 20-02165-FC01

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

B10 TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 18sp578 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY KEVIN W. HEATH AND ANNE J. HEATH DATED MARCH 7, 2007 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7529 AT PAGE 127 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 20 SP 564 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JOE E. BROWN AND RAMONA BROWN AKA RAMONA E. BROWN DATED APRIL 29, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6868 AT PAGE 101 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 295 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Karl R. Halterman, Jr. and Sarah Elizabeth Dries (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Karl R. Halterman, Jr. and Sarah Elizabeth Dries) to David W. Allred, Trustee(s), dated June 12, 2008, and recorded in Book No. 07913, at Page 0802 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville,

20 SP 599 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by William Nobles, Jr. to The Law Offices of H.C. Stevens, Trustee(s), which was dated February 23, 2006 and recorded on February 24, 2006 in Book 7156 at Page 759, 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

21 SP 232 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Brian J. Marzulla and April B. Marzulla to Rebecca W. Shaia, Trustee(s), which was dated March 15, 2006 and recorded on March 17, 2006 in Book 7178 at Page 644, 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

19 SP 176 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Lavedia M. Edwards and Nathan K. Edwards to H. Terry Hutchens, Trustee(s), which was dated August 15, 2013 and recorded on August 19, 2013 in Book 09272 at Page 0353, 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

21 SP 282 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Nicholas Lauritzen and Patricia Lauritzen to Fidelity National Title Company, Trustee(s), which was dated July 9, 2012 and recorded on August 1, 2013 in Book 09259 at Page 0590, 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

21 SP 279 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Christopher B. Wright and Bobbette J. Wright to David W. Allred, Trustee(s), which was dated October 30, 2006 and recorded on October 31, 2006 in Book 7406 at Page 557, 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

21 SP 253 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Brandon J. Sadler and Casey M. Sadler to David W. Allred, Trustee(s), which was dated February 9, 2007 and recorded on February 12, 2007 in Book 7500 at Page 410, 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

contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on July 26, 2021 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Kevin W. Heath and Anne J. Heath, dated March 7, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $45,000.00, and recorded in Book 7529 at Page 127 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property:

agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on July 26, 2021 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Joe E. Brown and Ramona Brown aka Ramona E. Brown, dated April 29, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $15,600.00, and recorded in Book 6868 at Page 101 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 7 Rockwood Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28311 Tax Parcel ID:

Cottonwood Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304 Tax Parcel ID: 0416-27-9474 Present Record Owners: Kevin Heath and Anne J. Heath And Being more commonly known as: Cottonwood Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304

W. 4814

The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Kevin W. Heath and Anne J. Heath. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance «AS IS, WHERE IS.» Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being

0439-94-8845 Present Record Owners: and Ramona E. Brown

Joe E. Brown

And Being more commonly known as: 701 Rockwood Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28311 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Joe E. Brown and Ramona E. Brown. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance «AS IS, WHERE IS.» Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

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

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

you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 21, 2021. LLG Trustee, LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 18-098958

Parkway,

Suite

400

in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 22, 2021. LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 20-108874

Parkway,

Suite

400

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

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

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to

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.

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 21, 2021 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:

($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.

BEING ALL OF LOT 2, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS WELMAR HEIGHTS, SECTION 5, BLOCK A, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF THE SAME DULY RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 25, PAGE 16, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY.

Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on July 19, 2021 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 8 in a subdivision known as Oak Meadows according to a plat of same being duly recorded in Plat Book 61, Page 131, in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9308 Oak Meadow Court, Fayetteville, North Carolina,

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 4206 Atlantic Ave, Fayetteville, NC 28306. A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

Being all of Lot 15, Block I, in a subdivision known as LA GRANGE, SECTION 5, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 28, Page 66, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 7568 Carrollburg Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28303. A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 28, 2021 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 204 in a subdivision known as Sheffield Farms North, Section Three and being duly recorded in Book of Plats 122, Page 94, Cumberland County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 4605 Scenic Pines Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348. A cash deposit (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

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 28, 2021 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, STATE OF North Carolina, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 54, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS HUNTERS CROSSING, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF THE SAME DULY RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 94, PAGE 56, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA. Parcel ID: 9487-31-6705 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 8726 Grouse

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 28, 2021 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 21 of Fairway Forest East as shown on a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 89, Page 113, Cumberland County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5420 HEATHER ST, Hope Mills, NC 28348. A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time

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

Run Ln, Fayetteville, NC 28314. A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the

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

Being all of Lot 508 in a Subdivision known as “LEGION HILLS, SECTION SIX, PART 2”, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 107, Page 6, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1039 Gatesville Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348. A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

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,

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

undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Patricia Lauritzen and Nicholas Lauritzen. 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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 4499 - 16472

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-10043-FC01

but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 21-02743-FC01

to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-00479-FC01

North State Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

B11

TAKE NOTICE

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LUTHER JAMES NEWBY, III AND AMY D. NEWBY DATED APRIL 29, 1999 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1132 AT PAGE 886 IN THE DAVIDSON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 10:00AM on July 19, 2021 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Davidson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Luther James Newby, III and Amy D. Newby, dated April 29, 1999 to secure the original principal amount of $77,688.60, and recorded in Book 1132 at Page 886 of the Davidson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and

Address of property: Lexington, NC 27295

DAVIDSON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION DAVIDSON COUNTY 20SP313

JOHNSTON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION JOHNSTON COUNTY 17SP89 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JOSEPH N. CANZANIELLO AND LORETTA CANZANIELLO AND FRANK CANZANIELLO DATED AUGUST 22, 2003 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2533 AT PAGE 638 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 140 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Ned T. Chilcote (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Ned T. Chilcote, Heirs of Ned T. Chilcote: Ned Ray Chilcote, Norma Chilcote) to Shapiro & Kreisman, Trustee(s), dated May 31, 2002, and recorded in Book No. 1854, at Page 242 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 165 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Eric W. Patterson and Callie Patterson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Eric W. Patterson and Callie Patterson) to John B. Third, Trustee(s), dated April 27, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 4444, at Page 41 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales,

RANDOLPH AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20 SP 141

119 Hettie Dr,

contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 11:00AM on July 27, 2021 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Joseph N. Canzaniello and Loretta Canzaniello and Frank Canzaniello, dated August 22, 2003 to secure the original principal amount of $64,858.00, and recorded in Book 2533 at Page 638 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:

104

Tax Parcel ID: 1801600000001R Present Record Owners: L u t h e r James Newby, III And Being more commonly known as: 119 Hettie Dr, Lexington, NC 27295 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Luther James Newby, III. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance «AS IS, WHERE IS.» Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities

Fayetteville Street, Micro, NC 27576 Tax Parcel ID: 10006002A Present Record Owners: N. Joseph Canzaniello and Loretta Canzaniello and Frank Canzaniello And Being more commonly known as: Fayetteville Street, Micro, NC 27576

104 E

The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Joseph N. Canzaniello and Loretta Canzaniello and Frank Canzaniello. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance «AS IS, WHERE IS.» Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities

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

an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 28, 2021. LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 20-110495

Parkway,

Suite

400

in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon written notice to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time notice of termination is provided. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. For additional information, please see Auction.com. The date of this Notice is June 21, 2021. LLG Trustee LLC Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 15-067454

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door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on July 22, 2021 and will sell 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: TRACT 2 Lying and being in Swansboro Township, Onslow County, North Carolina, and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an iron stake standing at the northern right of way line of State Road No. 1509, said iron stake being 312 feet east of the centerline extended of a 15” concrete culvert passing under said road when measured along the northern margin of said road, said concrete culvert being approximately 1.2 mile west of the western end of Queens Creek Bridge; running thence North 26 degrees 36 minutes West 200 feet to an iron stake, thence North 63 degrees 24 minutes East 100 feet to an iron stake; thence South 26 degrees 36 minutes East 200 feet to an iron stake at the northern margin of said State Road No. 1509, thence from the margin of said road South 63 degrees 24 minutes West 200 feet to the beginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 656 Queens

Creek Road, Hubert, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and

State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

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

at 10:00 AM on July 22, 2021 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Maysville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 29, White Oak River Plantation, as same is shown on a map recorded in Map Book 52, at Page 70 of the Onslow County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular reference. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 205 Chandler Court, Maysville, North Carolina.

any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be

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

sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser

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

Subject to restrictions recorded in Book 2782 at Page 255 of the 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

foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on July 27, 2021 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Climax in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: TRACT I Being all of Lot Number 52, Rolling Acres, a plat of which is recorded in Plat Book 15, Page 13.

Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5765 Randolph Meadows Road, Climax, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on May 27, 2010, in Book No. RE2183, at Page 1279.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Thomas M. Hodgin and Barbara F. Hodgin (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Thomas M. Hodgin and Barbara F. Hodgin) to Richard Pearman Jr, Trustee(s), dated August 16, 2001, and recorded in Book No. 1725, at Page 2275 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Randolph County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for

Being that parcel of land conveyed to Thomas M. Hodgin and wife, Barbara Hodgin, tenants by the entirety from George F. Shaw and Sherrill W. Shaw DBA Randleman Development Company by that deed dated 03/05/1980 and recorded 03/19/1980 in Deed Book 1117, at Page 514 of the Randolph County, NC Public Registry.

Being that parcel of land conveyed to Thomas McKinley Hodgin and wife, Barbara Ann Hodgin, tenants by the entirety from George F. Shaw and Sherrill W. Shaw DBA Randleman Development Company by that deed dated 04/29/1981 and recorded 05/11/1981 in Deed Book 1126, at Page 857 of the Randolph County, NC 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

WAKE

ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against SYLVIA MELVERE BECKWITH, aka, SYLVIA M. BECKWITH, deceased, of Prince Georges County, MD,

(Wake 2021-E-1994) (PGC 118555) are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before October 1, 2021, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of

the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 14th day of July 2021. Kim C. Adams, Ancillary Administrator, c/o Lisa M.

Schreiner, Stam Law Firm, PLLC, 510 W. Williams St., Apex, NC 27502 North State Journal: June 30, July 7, 14 and 21, 2021.

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 18 SP 1158

customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on July 19, 2021 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 4 according to a plat of survey entitled “A Minor Division of Lot 1 creating Lots 3 and 4 for Robert A. and Annie Mae Leach” dated May 19, 2000 by M. M. Weeks Land Surveying and recorded in Book of Maps 2000, Page 1580, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9957 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

0221979 Present Record Owners: Nicol Smith

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Rafael Alvarado and Yulma Y. Alvarado (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Rafael Alvarado and Yulma Yanet Alvarado) to Brock & Scott, Trustee(s), dated March 30, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 011888, at Page 02445 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 20sp848 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY NICOL SMITH DATED SEPTEMBER 28, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 11606 AT PAGE 2400 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in the payment of the secured indebtedness and failure to perform the stipulation and

TRACT II Being all of Lot No. 38 of Rolling Acres Subdivision, a plat of which is to be found of record in Plat Book 15, Page 13, Randolph County Public Registry.

agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the owner and holder of the secured debt, the undersigned substitute trustee will expose for sale at public auction to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the county courthouse of said county at 11:00AM on July 23, 2021 the following described real estate and any other improvements which may be situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Nicol Smith, dated September 28, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $92,720.00, and recorded in Book 11606 at Page 2400 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: 3 Ferdilah Ln, Raleigh, NC 27610 Tax Parcel ID:

The Heirs of

And Being more commonly known as: 3304 Ferdilah Ln, Raleigh, NC 27610 The record owner(s) of the property, as reflected on the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Nicol Smith. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance «AS IS, WHERE IS.» Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS: If you are a tenant residing in the property, be advised that

The date of this Notice is June 30, 2021. Andrew Vining Substitute Trustee 10130 Perimeter Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 20-109834

Parkway,

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400

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Stanly County Journal

PHOTO VIA SEN. THOM TILLIS

Tillis in Concord Sen. Thom Tillis visits Roush Yates Engines in Concord to see their high-tech manufacturing business.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NC Commerce awards grants to local workforce board for youth initiatives

Red Cross councilmembers approve 250-lot subdivision By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

Stanly County The North Carolina Department of Commerce has awarded a grant to support an innovative youth workforce development project. The Centralina Workforce Development Board of Anson, Cabarrus, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Stanly and Union counties received $87,862 to support the board’s “Creating Connections in Centralina” project. This initiative seeks to meet the needs of underserved rural areas related to a lack of technology, training and employment opportunities, while engaging youth with the workforce system. The board plans to target communities that have experienced low rates of high school graduation with outreach that raises awareness and brings programs directly to them. SCJ

RED CROSS — On Monday evening, the Red Cross Town Council approved annexation and rezoning requests for the proposed Forest Creek subdivision on Hatley-Burris Road. Councilmember Melvin Poole made the motion to approve the annexation of three parcels of land by three owners: Richard and Cheryel Bray; Burleson Square, LLC (Joseph Burleson); and LTC Development, LLC (Terry Williams). Councilmember J.J. Curlee seconded the request, which passed with a 5-0 vote, and then motioned to approve a request by Burleson — a real estate broker for Whitley Realty in Locust and the developer of the site — for a zoning change from County RA to Conditional Zoning for the same three parcels of land. Councilmember Karen Smith seconded the request that also passed unanimously.

“This is something I’m putting my name and signature on — I want it to be something that I’ll certainly be proud of and the folks of Red Cross and western Stanly County can be proud of as well,” Burleson said. “We’re going to make sure that everything is taken care of and is aesthetically pleasing. I’ll be there every day looking over the process.” Burleson confirmed that the full design and approval process will take “about a year” to be completed. Prior to Monday’s meeting, the Red Cross Planning and Zoning Board — composed of Harry Williams, Darin Robinson, Dale Burris, Trina Plowman, Tina Eudy, Thelma Tomberlin and Michael Sandy — recommended the approval of the requests for the new subdivision. Sandy, serving as the zoning enforcement officer for Red Cross, presented to the council an overview of the planned subdivision with a map and amenity details. “We have a total of 250 lots and

“Growth is coming... It’s coming, so we might as well embrace it and do something for the town. This is a positive for the town, and it’s going to be a good-looking development.” Red Cross Mayor Kelly Brattain 3.44 acres dedicated to the right of way that’s going to be on Hatley-Burris Road. The total area in lots is 55.33 acres, and the net property area is 80 acres,” Sandy said. “The developer submitted his offer for amenities through the process. He recommended a minimum of 20 extra parking spaces for residents or visitors that will be placed in common areas. He offered a minimum of 1,800 square foot homes, a homeowners association, no on-street

parking, landscape entrances and streetlights.” During the public hearing portion of the meeting, two citizens who live near the proposed housing project addressed the council with concerns regarding the possibility of electrical, environmental and increased crime issues due to the development. One of the citizens questioned whether the town’s public hearing has been sufficiently advertised while also decrying the expansive nature of the housing plans: “I make an assumption that nobody here lives around that area; but if they did, they would be against it,” he said. Mayor Kelly Brattain responded to the comments with the assurance that the planning board had thoroughly researched the local effects of the subdivision and that the public hearing had been adequately announced from a legal perspective. “Growth is coming. It’s either going to come from the left side, right side or behind you. It’s coming, so we might as well embrace it and do something for the town,” Brattain said. “This is a positive for the town, and it’s going to be a good-looking development.” The town planning board is scheduled to meet again on Aug. 3, and the town council is set to reconvene on Aug. 9.

Wingate woman charged with insurance fraud Union County North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Margarita Rena Wall, 43, of Wingate. Wall was charged with insurance fraud, a felony. Special agents with the Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division accuse Wall of providing fraudulent documents and giving a false statement to Travelers Indemnity Co. to support a personal property homeowners’ policy claim. The offense occurred between Nov. 14, 2019, and Jan. 9, 2020. SCJ

20177 52016 $0.50

Audit of Albemarle PD preceded Chief Dulin’s departure City says report found no corruption and decision to retire was Dulin’s, but timing raises questions By David Larson Stanly County Journal ALBEMARLE — A contract between the City of Albemarle and U.S. Investigative Security Services Agency (ISS), obtained by Stanly County Journal through a public records request, reveals a narrow window between the completion of the ISS audit of the Albemarle Police Department and the announcement of Chief David Dulin’s retirement and hiring of a new interim chief, David Poston. ISS, based out of Huntersville, offers services that include inter-

nal affairs audits of law enforcement agencies. Both the original contract and final report of this audit were obtained by SCJ. The contract was signed April 29, 2021, by city manager Michael Ferris and by David Stephens, director of operations for ISS, with services to commence on May 4 at $150 per hour for each investigator involved. “The City agrees to employ ISS to provide review/auditing services to conduct an independent review of current Albemarle Police Department Internal Affairs complaint and investigative processes,” the contract stated. It later stated that after this review was completed, a report would be provided “with all of their findings as relates to the audit as well as any applicable policy

“The City is legally restricted on what it can disclose about personnel matters. We cannot offer additional insight on discussions that took place prior to David Dulin’s retirement.” Albemarle city attorney Britt Burch

change recommendations or improvements for best practices.” ISS submitted that final report on May 18, and three weeks lat-

er, on June 9, the city announced Dulin’s departure and that an interim chief had already been hired. The fact that Poston’s employment was already secured by the June 9 retirement announcement suggests a narrow window between the ISS report’s completion and the search for Dulin’s interim replacement. “The city routinely reviews each department’s policies, procedures and operations in an effort to improve the services offered,” Albemarle city attorney Britt Burch told SCJ on the reason for the audit. “This same type of review was conducted within the APD.” Many of the findings in the final report provided to SCJ were redacted. See APD, page 2

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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DEATH NOTICES ♦ Charles Edward Allen, 77, of Badin, died July 2. ♦ Henry Leonard Harris, 62, of Albemarle, died July 5. ♦ William Mark Graves, 72, of New London, died July 5 ♦ Ed Junior Talbert, 77, of Albemarle, died July 10 ♦ Nellie Pickler Tucker, 85, of Albemarle, died July 10. ♦ Clarence Ronald Fink, 75, died July 10. ♦ Katherine Norma Jean Parsons Cox, 79, of Albemarle, died July 11.

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Judge questions treatment of suspended horse trainer Baffert NEW YORK — A New York judge was sympathetic Monday to horse trainer Bob Baffert’s claims that his May suspension by the New York Racing Association — after Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit failed a postrace drug test — was unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Carol Bagley Amon at a Brooklyn hearing repeatedly pressed a lawyer for the racing association to explain why the suspension was issued before Baffert was given a chance to defend himself. Henry Greenberg, arguing on behalf of the racing association, said Baffert will get a hearing after the association announces the length of his suspension by Aug. 11. “Isn’t that a little too late?” the judge asked, noting that the duration will be announced months after he was suspended. “The problem I have, counsel, is that he was suspended and it’s up in the air.” She said the racing association attacked his credibility as it issued the suspension, but never gave him the chance to speak on his own behalf about what happened. “How does that comply with due process?” the judge asked. At another point, Amon said: “You just sent him a letter saying, ‘You’re out,’ with no due process

APD from page 1 “Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute §160A-168, the report has been redacted to protect the privacy of employee personnel matters,” Burch told SCJ in an email. “It is important to note that the report did not uncover any corruption.” The report contained sections on pursuits, citizen complaints, internal complaints and use of force. The review was completed by ISS investigators Katherine Scheimreif and David Stephens. They interviewed “several members” of the APD, including Dulin, but the results were redacted to an extent where it was unclear whether the findings were of a positive or neg-

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whatsoever.” Greenberg repeatedly said the NYRA, which operates Belmont Park, Aqueduct and Saratoga Race Course, took the action to protect the integrity of the sport. He said the association had to act fast because the Belmont Stakes, the third prong of horse racing’s Triple Crown, was fast approaching in early June. The lawyer noted that the Kentucky Derby test was the fifth time in the past year that a horse trained

by Baffert tested positive for drugs. “Rarely in the history of the sport has there been such a confluence of drug positives involving so prominent a trainer,” association lawyers wrote in court papers. In Baffert’s lawsuit last month seeking to get the suspension lifted, the Hall of Famer contended he was suspended without “any prior notice” and was not told the duration or terms of the suspension or any New York state law or regulation he might have violated.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Amon did not immediately rule. Arguing on Baffert’s behalf, attorney W. Craig Robertson III said it was unfair of the racing association to suspend his client without the completion of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding what he called the “alleged test” on Medina Spirit. Robertson said it was possible that traces of betamethasone were found in the horse’s system as a result of an ointment applied to the horse to treat a skin rash three weeks before the race. The unregulated ointment, he said, contained betamethasone. Churchill Downs suspended Baffert for two years after an additional drug test of Medina Spirit confirmed betamethasone in the horse’s system. Baffert cannot enter any horses in the Kentucky Derby or other races at the storied Louisville track through the spring of 2023. Robertson contended that the New York suspension would be the “death knell” to Baffert’s training business because New York’s Saratoga Race Course, which reopens Thursday, is a pivotal stop for a young horse destined for greatness. He said a top horse farm in Kentucky had already taken two prize horses from Baffert’s care and another producer of elite horses was considering finding another trainer if Baffert cannot enter horses in New York races. Outside court, Baffert and his lawyers declined comment after the hearing.

ative nature, often with entire pages blacked out. Examples include: • “The Albemarle Police Department’s Internal Affairs process is currently [extended redaction]. As a basic foundation, this policy specifies that ‘minor’ complaints are handled [redacted] who encounter a citizen complaint such as ‘rudeness’, are permitted by policy to attempt to handle the complaint without any documentation. • “Most cases that were reviewed by ISS revealed [extended redaction].” • “As an additional example of inappropriate adjudication and punishment [extended redaction].” While ambiguous due to another redaction, the section giving

policy recommendations seemed to suggest the APD’s policies were sufficient, but not always their application. “In closing, the policies presented by the Albemarle Police Department are adequate but must be utilized and properly applied [extended redaction].” Burch was clear, though, that “the report did not uncover any corruption,” and that Dulin himself made the decision to retire. “As I am sure you are aware, the city is legally restricted on what it can disclose about personnel matters. We cannot offer additional insight on discussions that took place prior to David Dulin’s retirement,” Burch said. She did suggest that a discussion

was had with Dulin after the audit, saying, “As standard practice, findings from a departmental review are discussed with the leadership of the department.” Burch also made sure to highlight that the city council has no direct role in hiring or firing chiefs of police, a point also made to SCJ by Mayor Ronnie Michael in a phone interview. “The city manager has supervisory authority over all department heads and has the sole authority over personnel actions for the same,” Burch said. “In any event, Chief Dulin made the decision to retire.” SCJ reached out to Dulin for comment but did not hear back in time for publication.

♦ Freeman, Jeffary Scott (W /M/33) Arrest on chrg of 1) Possess Marijuana Up To 1/2 Ounce (M), 2) Possess Marij Paraphernalia (M), 3) Fta - Release Order (M), and 4) Fta - Release Order (M), at 921 Lowder St/concord Rd, Albemarle, NC, on 7/6/2021

♦ Crump, Rico Millard (I M, 26) Arrest on chrg of Felony Probation Violation (F), at Ridge St/pee Dee Av, Albemarle, on 07/07/2021

ERIC RISBERG | AP PHOTO

Horse trainer Bob Baffert leaves federal court, Monday, July 12, 2021, in the Brooklyn borough of New York.

WEEKLY CRIME LOG ♦ Horne, Kevin Justin (W /M/40) Arrest on chrg of Driving While Impaired (M), at 12800 Buster Rd/nc 200 Hwy, Stanfield, NC, on 7/11/2021 ♦ Horne, Kevin Justin (W /M/40) Arrest on chrg of 1) Possess Methamphetamine (F), 2) Possess Heroin (F), and 3) Possess Drug Paraphernalia (M), at 12800 Buster Rd/nc 200 Hwy, Stanfield, NC, on 7/11/2021

Cited on Charge of Dwlr Impaired Rev (202100506), at 6815 Us 52 Hwy S/riverview Rd, Norwood, NC, on 7/9/2021. ♦ Sanford, Joshua Lee (W /M/24) Arrest on chrg of 1) Carrying Concealed Gun (m) (M) and 2) Possess Weapon Mass Destruct (F), at 6619 Jodie Dr, Stanfield, NC, on 7/8/2021

♦ Brand, Melanie Dawn (W /F/45) Arrest on chrg of Driving While Impaired (M), at 126 South Third Street, Albemarle, NC, on 7/10/2021

♦ Carter, Michael Bruce (W /M/22) Arrest on chrg of 1) Simple Possess Sch Vi Cs (m) (M), 2) Fta - Criminal Summons Or Citation (M), and 3) Fta Criminal Summons Or Citation (M), at 341 Aquadale Rd, Oakboro, NC, on 7/8/2021

♦ Cronin, Terry Gay (W /F/59) Arrest on chrg of Assault With Deadly Weapon (m) (M), at 37104 Spencer Dr, Mt Pleasant, NC, on 7/10/2021

♦ Kinley, Blake Riley (W /M/37) Cited on Charge of Fict/alt Title/reg Card/tag (2102227), at S Oak Ridge/nc 24-27 Hwy, Red Cross, on 7/8/2021.

♦ Grice, James Michael (W /M/46) Arrest on chrg of Driving While Impaired (M), at Austin Rd, Albemarle, NC, on 7/9/2021

♦ Blalock, Walter Lewis (W /M/60) Arrest on chrg of Misdemeanor Larceny, M (M), at 126 South 3rd St, Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021

♦ Carver, Amanda Leigh (W /F/37) Arrest on chrg of Surrender By Surety (F), at Scrmsdc Jail, Albemarle, NC, on 7/9/2021

♦ Hawks, Eric James (W /M/31) Arrest on chrg of 1) Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts (F), 2) Inj Prop Obt Nonferr Metal-f (F), and 3) Parole Violation (F), at Bushwakers, Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021

♦ Cummings, Josh Allen (I /M/30) Arrest on chrg of 1) Possession Of Controlled Sub Prison/jail (F) and 2) Fta Criminal Summons Or Citation (M), at Scj, Albemarle, NC, on 7/9/2021 ♦ Clark, Mac Arthur (B /M/68)

♦ Hawks, Eric James (W /M/31) Arrest on chrg of 1) Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts (F), 2) Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts (F), 3) Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts (F), 4) Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts (F), 5) Inj Prop Obt

Nonferr Metal-f (F), 6) Inj Prop Obt Nonferr Metal-f (F), 7) Inj Prop Obt Nonferr Metal-f (F), 8) Inj Prop Obt Nonferr Metal-f (F), and 9) Conspire To Commit Felony Larceny (F), at 126 South 3rd St, Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021 ♦ Heidel, Cristal Cathleen (W /F/39) Arrest on chrg of 1) Financial Card Theft (F), 2) Defrauding Innkeeper (M), and 3) Financial Card Fraud (f) (F), at Stanly County Courthouse, Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021 ♦ Eudy, Austin Lee (W /M/25) Arrest on chrg of Simple Assault, M (M), at 201 S 2nd St., Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021 ♦ Nelson, Christopher Junior (B /M/47) Arrest on chrg of 1) Driving While Impaired (M), 2) Child Abuse (m) (M), and 3) Dwlr Impaired Rev (M), at 45328 Godson Rd, Albemarle, NC, on 7/7/2021 ♦ Burris, Jamie Lynn (W /M/37) Arrest on chrg of 1) Possess Methamphetamine (F), 2) Simple Possess Sch Iii Cs (m) (M), 3) Possession Of Controlled Sub Prison/jail (F), 4) Possess Drug Paraphernalia (M), 5) Fta - Release Order (F), and 6) Fta - Release Order (M), at 24352 St Martin Rd, Albemarle, NC, on 7/6/2021 ♦ Menjivar, Rodolfo Antonio (U /M/18) Arrest on chrg of Possession Of Stolen Firearm (F), at Wyatt Rd, Albemarle, NC, on 7/6/2021

♦ Tran, Xuan Nha (A /M/51) Cited on Charge of Reckless Driving To Endanger (202100498), at 159 N Main St/w Whitley St, Norwood, NC, on 7/6/2021. ♦ Simms, Donnell Jermaine (B M, 37) Arrest on chrg of Assault By Pointing A Gun(M), at 315 Groves Av/henson St, Albemarle, on 07/06/2021 ♦ Gosselin, Robert Joseph (W M, 42) Arrest on chrg of Fta Release Order (M), at 113Love St, Albemarle, on 07/06/2021 ♦ Sells, Joshua Chad (W M, 41) Arrest on chrg of Driving While Impaired (F), at 231Park Ridge Rd/n Sixth St, Albemarle, on 07/06/2021 ♦ Mclaurin, Alisha Nicole (B F, 20) Arrest on chrg of Simple Assault (M), at 126 SThird St, Albemarle, on 07/06/2021 ♦ Epley, Daniel Lee (W M, 33) Arrest on chrg of Pwimsd Methamphetamine (F), at1607 Nc 24-27 Bypass W, Albemarle, on 07/07/2021. ♦ Lilly, Tress Antonio (B M, 30) Arrest on chrg of Pwimsd Sch Ii Cs (F), at 527 Washington Ln, Albemarle, on 07/07/2021

♦ Smith, Shelby William (W M, 24) Arrested on Citation of Fict/alt Title/reg Card/tag(2102877), at 103 Us 52 South/ old Charlotte Rd, Albemarle, on 07/07/2021 ♦ Fisher, Whitney Raven (W F, 32) Arrest on chrg of Misdemeanor Larceny, M (M), at781 Leonard Av, Albemarle, on 07/11/202 ♦ Hathcock, Kenny Ray (W M, 43) Arrest on chrg of Larceny By Changing Price Tag(M), at 781 Leonard Ave, Albemarle, on 07/11/2021 ♦ James, Chadwick Walter (W M, 50) Arrest on chrg of Felony Possession Of Cocaine(F), at 126 South Third Street, Albemarle, on 07/12/2021 ♦ Uhler, Christopher Justin Peyton (W M, 34) Arrest on chrg of Misd Prob Viol Out OfCounty, M (M), at 126 S Third St, Albemarle, on 07/12/2021 ♦ Smith, David Wayne (W M, 54) Arrest on chrg of Assault On Female (M), at 1328 EMain St, Albemarle, on 07/12/2021 ♦ Whitaker, Erik D`shane (W M, 22) Arrest on chrg of Misdemeanor Larceny, M (M), at814 Nc 24-27 Bypass E, Albemarle, on 07/12/2021

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Remaining safe during Hurricane Season

Please continue to stay safe and listen to local authorities when it comes to storms and hurricanes.

THE RECENT INDEPENDENCE DAY holiday is time for us to honor the founding of our country and all those who have served and sacrificed for our freedoms. It also signals the peak of the summer season. Each year around this time, Washington, D.C., is usually full of schoolchildren, families and tourists. While many attractions and venues were closed last year due to the pandemic, this year I have been encouraged that businesses are opening, concert and theatre venues are beginning to bring life to our communities, and restaurants are serving again. Unfortunately, however, our nation’s Capitol — a symbol of our democracy and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans — remains closed to the public. Last week, it was reported that fencing around the Capitol will finally be removed in coming days. However, the Capitol’s closure to the public is now the longest in our nation’s history. I am frustrated that especially during this summer season, many of you and your families still cannot visit our Capitol, even as restaurants, bars and even museums are reopening. Not only is a visit to the Capitol an important way to learn about our country’s history and government, it’s also a great opportunity for me to meet with many of you and hear directly from constituents. While we must continue commonsense protective measures to ensure everyone’s safety, I believe it is past time to allow visitors back into our Capitol. Congress must also return to normal operating business with in-person committee hearings and votes. Our country is returning to normal and Congress should be leading the way, not bringing up the rear. In addition to pushing to open our Capitol this summer, this is also an important time to prepare for hurricane season, which

runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Last week, Tropical Storm Elsa impacted our region, serving as an unwelcome reminder of the threats of severe weather. Our community and state are no strangers to hurricanes, but I want to ensure you are well prepared to keep your family safe. You can visit my website at Hudson.house.gov/hurricanepreparedness for helpful tips and resources from our state and counties. These include links to: Emergency Preparedness Kit Checklist • • North Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Information • North Carolina Department of Transportation Evacuation Routes • North Carolina Evacuation Zone • North Carolina Power Outage & Utilities • North Carolina Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network Map • North Carolina Department of Public Safety • National Weather Service Hurricane Guide As always, my office stands ready to assist you with anything you and your family need to ensure we are properly prepared for storms and able to respond to any damage following severe weather events. Please continue to stay safe and listen to local authorities when it comes to storms and hurricanes. And as always, please continue to reach out and share your insights, perspectives, and thoughts. I will always seek bipartisan solutions to the issues we are facing at home and around our country, and will never stop working on behalf of you and your family.

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

Meghan McCain often did what political media wouldn’t “I don’t believe you’re a reliable narrator. And I’m not convinced this isn’t just some kind of PR campaign to stop yourself from getting indicted.”

MEGHAN MCCAIN is leaving “The View.” One assumes that regular readers of editorial pages and political magazines aren’t exactly the prime audience for a daytimetelevision show. And one also assumes that a not insignificant number of Republicans aren’t fans of McCain because of her sharp criticism of former President Donald Trump. Yet I think it’s fair to say that McCain was probably one of the most consequential conservatives in media over the past four years. For one thing, “The View” captures a larger audience than any cable-news show in the country. It is watched by millions of Americans who are otherwise subjected to a nearly uninterrupted barrage of leftist political perspectives. During her four years on the show, McCain confronted numerous high-profile Democrats with questions that they would otherwise never have been asked. Quite often, I suspect, she brought up issues that a majority of the audience weren’t even aware existed. When James Comey was being treated like an American hero by an unctuous media, McCain confronted him over his phony apolitical posturing: “You sound like a political commentator to me.” When the disgraced Andrew McCabe turned up on “The View” and fueled conspiracies theories about Russia directing Trump to fire Comey — my God, what insanity we endured — she told him: “I don’t believe you’re a reliable narrator. And I’m not convinced this isn’t just some kind of PR campaign to stop yourself from getting indicted.” It was McCain who confronted former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, by then a CNN contributor, about his contention, under oath, that the United States did not engage in the data collection of millions of Americans. “In 2013, when you were asked about it, you said no,” McCain said. “So that is a lie.” When CNN Brian Stelter was on the show preening about journalistic ethics, she said: “There’s a 2016 audio of your president, Jeff Zucker, offering debate advice to President Trump that was released. Jake Tapper was recently caught trying to allegedly influence a congressional election, and I have serious problems with the way Chris Cuomo had a reoccurring prime-time sort of comic routine with his brother instead of asking about policies that were literally sending my friend Janice Dean’s older relatives to die in nursing homes ... Do you believe that this is acceptable?”

As the media were reporting on Republican “pouncing,” McCain confronted Kamala Harris about her support for defunding the police, twice — before the then-presidential candidate offered some evasive gibberish about how she “reimagined” public safety. She called out Pete Buttigieg’s radical support for abortion into the ninth month. “What if a woman wanted to invoke infanticide after a baby was born; you’d be comfortable with that?” McCain asked Buttigieg, who did not offer a straightforward answer. She also asked Amy Klobuchar about Ralph Northam’s comments on infanticide: “Are you for what he said or late-term abortion or the moments that he was talking about where he would keep a woman ‘comfortable’ as she was giving birth in case she wanted to abort her third-term child?” The presidential candidate refused to answer. This is not, needless to say, the type of conversation one normally hears on major networks. McCain asked Elizabeth Warren, who had only recently been feted by the likes of Rachel Maddow and Seth Meyers, to explain why she changed her description of Qassem Soleimani from “murderer” to “military official.” “I don’t understand the flip-flop,” McCain said. “I don’t understand why it was so hard to call him a terrorist, and I would just like you to explain the change.” Three times McCain asked. And three times Warren deflected. When McCain challenged Raphael Warnock — who enjoyed a free ride in 2020 — to explain why he wouldn’t take a position on the left’s court-packing scheme, he refused to answer. And when McCain pressed him, “View” co-host Whoopi Goldberg stepped in to end the interview. McCain was probably also the only person on a major network who brought up, on numerous occasions, the normalization of antisemitism among progressives in the Democratic Party. These are just some of the exchanges that come to mind. There were surely others. Now, I don’t regularly watch “The View.” All I know is that very few conservatives ever get access to powerful Democrats. McCain did. And she wasn’t scared to pose tough questions. Which is a lot more than we can say for most of the political media. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at National Review and the author of the book “First Freedom: A Ride Through America’s Enduring History With the Gun.”

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT

Kurt Busch celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Atlanta.

GOLF

Johnson tests positive, joins list of British Open withdrawals Sandwich, England Former champion Zach Johnson tested positive for the coronavirus before getting on a charter flight to the British Open, forcing him to join the growing list of withdrawals and ending his streak at playing 69 consecutive majors. The R&A said Johnson, who played in the John Deere Classic in Illinois on Sunday, and local qualifier Louis de Jager of South Africa had positive COVID-19 tests and withdrew. Johnson won the Claret Jug at St. Andrews in 2015 after a three-way playoff.

NHL

Ex-NBC analyst McGuire joins Senators front office Ottawa Longtime television analyst Pierre McGuire is returning to an NHL front office as senior vice president of player development for the Ottawa Senators. The club announced McGuire’s appointment Monday, saying he will work with general manager Pierre Dorion and owner Eugene Melnyk. McGuire was one of the faces of NBC Sports’ hockey coverage since 2006, often serving as the between-thebenches analyst. McGuire, 59, was an assistant coach, assistant general manager and coach of the Hartford Whalers during a 20-moth period in the early 1990s.

NBA

JOHN AMIS | AP PHOTO

Kurt Busch holds off brother Kyle to win at Atlanta Twelve different drivers have now won in the Cup Series this season and earned a playoff berth By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press HAMPTON, Ga. — Kurt Busch asked for a final favor from Atlanta Motor Speedway’s old, battered track. Busch’s wish came true on the track’s farewell race. Busch passed brother Kyle with 24 laps left and won the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday to complete a sibling weekend Atlanta sweep. It was the final race for the current track surface. It was installed in 1997 and is the oldest on the NA-

SCAR Cup Series circuit. Construction on a repaving and reprofile project is expected to begin immediately. “What a genuine, awesome, oldschool racetrack,” Kurt Busch said. “I just asked the track today for the last time on your old asphalt can I have an old guy win, and she answered.” Kurt Busch, 42, raced to his first victory of the season, 33rd overall and the fourth of his career at Atlanta. He locked up a spot in the playoffs and possibly improved his chances of securing a new ride next season. “Hell yeah, we beat Kyle!” he said. Kyle Busch reclaimed the lead with 47 laps remaining but couldn’t hold off his older brother on Lap 236. Kurt Busch took advantage of

lapped traffic, especially teammate Ross Chastain, to pass his brother. Chastain helped Kurt Busch choose the lane needed to make the crucial pass. “The 42 did his job as a teammate,” Kurt Busch said. “Ross is going to get a little flak for it, but that’s what it takes to be a good teammate at the right moment. I couldn’t be more proud of Ross Chastain.” Said Chastain, who finished 21st: “Kurt asked for the lane and I gave it to him. ... One team, one goal and that’s to win.” Kyle Busch pushed for the lead with eight laps remaining, but Kurt pulled away in the final laps to win by 1.237 seconds. Kyle Busch said his brother “was definitely better than us today. I thought I had him, and I did, but racing just didn’t play out for us today.” Kyle Busch won the Xfinity Series race Saturday, giving him five wins in his maximum five races in the series this season. He said he doesn’t plan to return to the Xfinity Series next season. Kurt Busch’s contract with Chip Ganassi Racing expires at the end of the year, and Ganassi sold the team to Trackhouse Racing owner Justin

Marks this month. “I don’t know where I’m going, but I just love racing cars and I want to race that Next Gen car,” Busch said, referring to NASCAR’s planned new car for next season. “That’s why I want to stick around.” Martin Truex Jr. finished third after starting at the back of the pack. Alex Bowman was fourth, followed by Ryan Blaney. Truex had been slated to start fifth but was pushed to the rear of the pack after his Toyota failed two prerace inspections. Denny Hamlin was fifth at the end of the second stage but was penalized for entering the pits too fast and had to move to the back of the pack for the restart. He finished 13th. Pole-sitter Chase Elliott finished seventh. Elliott fell back after his brakes locked, causing him to miss his pit box, on a competition caution on Lap 27. Elliott struggled to make up ground and remained winless in seven starts at his Atlanta home track. Elliott described the finish as “solid, just not great.” The NASCAR Cup series moves to the New Hampshire Motor Speedway next week.

Magic hire Mavs assistant Mosley as head coach

Lucas Glover hits off the 17th tee during Sunday's final round of the John Deere Classic in Silvis, Illinois.

Orlando, Fla. Jamahl Mosley has agreed to become the new coach of the Orlando Magic, the team announced Sunday, giving the longtime NBA assistant his first chance at running his own club. Mosley replaces Steve Clifford, who left Orlando by mutual agreement after three seasons and two playoff appearances. Clifford was previously the coach of the Charlotte Hornets. The 42-year-old Mosley spent the last 15 years as an assistant in Denver, Cleveland and Dallas. The last seven seasons were with the Mavericks, and his name has been discussed as a candidate in coaching searches for some time. CHARLIE NEIBERGALL | AP PHOTO

NFL

Former NFL player announces bid for Senate seat in Arkansas Little Rock, Ark. Former NFL player Jake Bequette on Monday announced he’s challenging Arkansas Sen. John Boozman in next year’s Republican primary. Bequette, a 32-year-old Army veteran and former Razorbacks player, played for three games for the New England Patriots in 2012 and five games the following season. Boozman, who has received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, was first elected to the seat in 2010 and reelected in 2016. Bequette’s campaign site touts him as “a true conservative who will advance the Trump conservative agenda.”

Glover with a 64 at John Deere ends 10 years without a win The former Clemson golfer and Greenville, South Carolina, native last won in 2011 at Quail Hollow The Associated Press SILVIS, Ill. — Lucas Glover made his third straight birdie and knew winning the John Deere Classic was in reach with a oneshot lead and four holes to go. But this was not the time to be thinking about ending 10 years without a PGA Tour trophy. Conditions were too soft and pure. There were too many birdies to be made, and too many players behind him. “Push, push, push,” said Glover, a Greenville, South Carolina, native who played collegiately at Clemson. “And I think that kept me from getting complacent, kept me from getting too nervy, because I knew it was going to take a bunch more under par.”

He finished with five birdies over his last seven holes for a 7-under 64 and a two-shot victory Sunday, ending 244 consecutive starts since he last won at Quail Hollow in May 2011. “I felt good golf coming,” Glover said. “I didn’t know how good.” It had to be to win at TPC Deere Run, where the greens were soft from rain but still smooth as can be, the perfect recipe for birdies. Glover was in log jam that at one pointed featured 25 players separated by three shots. Someone had to emerge, and it turned out to be him. It started with a 15-foot birdie putt on the par-3 12th hole. He hit his approach into 4 feet and 7 feet on the next two holes, and then flushed a 7-iron to 3 feet on the 15th hole to take the lead. Glover finished his run with a 12-foot birdie on the par-5 17th, and a 6-foot putt to save par from the bunker on the 18th that he figured would come in handy.

“It’s been a long 10 years. … I never lost sight of believing I could do this and win again.” Lucas Glover It never got to that. No one could catch him. He finished at 19-under 265 for his fourth career PGA Tour victory. Kevin Na tried to make a run with three birdies in four holes until he was slowed by a bogey on the 15th and couldn’t make up enough ground. He shot a 68. Ryan Moore also closed with a 68 for a runner-up finish. The victory sends him back to the Masters and the PGA Championship, and it allows him to start his year on Maui at the Tournament of Champions on a Kapa-

lua course he hasn’t seen since Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas were freshmen in college. “I’ve always been a big believer in there’s nothing guaranteed in this game,” Glover said. “It can be easy one day and be really, really, really hard the next. Yeah, it’s been a difficult 10 years, but I never lost my faith, never lost my drive, never lost the self-belief. “It’s a great feeling.” The victory at the 50th edition of the John Deere Classic makes Glover exempt on the PGA Tour through 2023, significant for a 41-year-old who had to go through the Web.com Tour Finals in 2015 just to get his full card back. “It’s been a long 10 years. There’s been some struggles,” Glover said. “I knew it was in there. I had to clean up my brain a little bit and just hit some shots, just play golf. I never lost sight of believing I could do this and win again. It’s always nice to prove yourself right.”

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

North Stanly names new athletic director Boys’ basketball coach George Walker will add AD to his duties with the Comets By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

JOHN LOCHER | AP PHOTO

Conor McGregor, right, tries to avoid a kick from Dustin Poirier during a UFC 264 lightweight bout on Saturday in Las Vegas.

“We are going to fight again, whether it’s in the octagon or on the sidewalk.” Dustin Poirier after beating Conor McGregor on Saturday in UFC 264

Poirier thriving as McGregor’s unlikely, involuntary nemesis The 32-year-old UFC lightweight beat the sport’s biggest draw for the second time in six months By Greg Beacham The Associated Press LAS VEGAS — The fighter who erased most of Conor McGregor’s mystique this year is a polite family man from Louisiana who makes his own hot sauce, does extensive charity work and would prefer to compete in empty gyms. Dustin Poirier is a curious choice to be the archenemy of a charismatic international superstar. Yet in two fights over the past six months, Poirier has broken McGregor’s leg, beaten him bloody and reduced the former two-division UFC champion to a snarling, desperate antihero who refuses to accept the evidence of his sporting decline presented to him by his unlikely nemesis. Poirier beat McGregor again Saturday night at UFC 264, earning a TKO victory when McGregor was unable to begin the second round on his fractured shin. Although he couldn’t do much in the cage against Poirier, McGregor put on a show afterward. A graceful loser earlier in his mixed martial arts career, Mc-

Gregor inexplicably claimed he had been winning the fight — all three judges scored the only round for Poirier, with two giving it to Poirier 10-8 — and crudely insulted both Poirier and his wife before being carried from the cage. “He got what he had coming to him,” Poirier said. “Karma is a mirror.” Poirier, the 32-year-old lightweight, accepted the back-toback bouts for their huge financial rewards, but the tedious toll from McGregor’s months of trash talk was obvious in his voice when he anticipated the trip home to Lafayette for some wellearned rest and quietude. “I don’t even like this (stuff) anymore, dude,” Poirier said Saturday night. “I just scrap because I’m good at it and I like to fight, but all this other stuff, all the talk ... I just come here to get the fight.” McGregor is 1-3 in MMA and 0-1 in boxing since late 2016. He turned 33 on Wednesday, and by the time his leg heals, it will be a half-decade since his last victory over a relevant opponent. He is living on the sports world’s memories of his remarkable rise, yet it seems likely he’ll remain the UFC’s biggest star until he retires. For Poirier, the challenge of fil-

tering McGregor’s noise seems to be even bigger than the challenge of beating a power-punching Irishman who still lags well behind the world’s best fighters in almost every other MMA discipline except self-promotion. Poirier had little trouble with McGregor in both fights this year. “I’m proud of the performance, but I am proud of maintaining the mindset through all the craziness, all the talk, all the noise that’s surrounding me when I’m coming into these fights,” Poirier said. “I don’t need that. I’m trying to be a light. I’m trying to help people. My goal is to provide for my family, and with these same hands that I beat these guys down with, lift my city up, lift people in need up.” Poirier’s next fight will be for the UFC lightweight title. He’ll meet Brazil’s Charles Oliveira, another veteran fighter who clawed his way to the top of the division with many years of hard work, likely at the end of this year. But Poirier also believes he’ll eventually grit his teeth and return to the McGregor maelstrom for another well-paid chapter in his unlikely rivalry with the biggest star in the sport. “We are going to fight again,” Poirier said, “whether it’s in the octagon or on the sidewalk.”

NEW LONDON — Following his first season as the North Stanly varsity boys’ basketball head coach, George Walker has been selected to take over duties as the school’s athletic director while retaining his coaching position with the Comets. “North Stanly High School is pleased to announce that George Walker is North Stanly High School’s athletic director,” the North Stanly Booster Club posted to its social media pages on July 2. Walker will be assuming the athletic program’s head role that was previously held for two years by Bryan Mills, North Stanly’s current dean of students. “Mr. Walker has been teaching for 19 years. He brings a wealth Record of knowledge to NSHS athletfor North ics. He has served as head varsity coach for seven years,” the boostStanly’s boys’ er club’s announcement continbasketball ued. “He has been awarded coach of the year three times and had team in its his 100th win this past season. first season He has previously held the posiunder coach tion of athletic director for eight years. Please join us in welcomGeorge ing Mr. Walker as North Stanly Walker High School’s athletic director.” Under a prior coaching staff in 2019-20, the Comets boys’ basketball team finished its season with a 1412 record and fourth-place Yadkin Valley Conference record. Although the conference was limited to a shortened season a year later, North Stanly’s results improved in Walker’s first campaign as the school’s coach: an 11-3 record, a conference championship, a player of the year award for rising senior Dyson Bell and a YVC Coach of the Year award for Walker. Before North Stanly, Walker had coaching experience at Mount Pleasant and Concord and was also an athletic director at Concord Middle and Concord. He reached a personal milestone in January when he notched his 100th coaching victory in the Comets’ 67-28 home win over South Davidson. The upcoming fall semester will mark a season of change for North Stanly’s athletic department — the school will once again play as a member of the 2A region after eight years as a 1A program. The revised Yadkin Valley Conference will now become a 1A/2A split conference with Albemarle, South Stanly, Union Academy and Gray Stone representing the 1A side, while North Stanly, Mount Pleasant and Jay M. Robinson will represent the 2A side. Last season, Mount Pleasant was a 2A member of the Rocky River Conference and Jay M. Robinson was a 3A member of the South Piedmont Conference.

11-3

Braves try to adjust after Acuña’s season-ending injury Atlanta’s star outfielder tore his right ACL on Saturday night The Associated Press MIAMI — The Atlanta Braves will have to adjust to playing without All-Star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. for the remainder of the season. The 23-year-old Acuña tore the ACL in his right knee in the fifth inning of Atlanta’s 5-3 victory over the Miami Marlins on Saturday night. An MRI showed the severity of the injury and the Braves made the announcement after the game, finishing the year for one of the most dynamic players in the majors. “I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t know the severity of it until the doctor notified me later on,” Acuña said on Sunday through an interpreter. “I have no control over what happened and just have to do my best to come back stronger than ever.” Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said the injury is another setback that the team will have to handle. “(Acuña’s injury) is just another punch in the gut that we have to endure,” Snitker said Sunday morning before the series finale against the Marlins. “He’s a young strong guy. He’ll recover great, and he’ll continue a Hall of Fame career when he’s done.” Snitker said that he did have a very good conversation with Acuña shortly after the MRI results were received. “He was in great spirits,” Snitker said. “He had a lot of rehab and procedural questions; (our talk)

LYNN SLADKY | AP PHOTO

Atlanta right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is helped onto a medical cart after suffering a torn right ACL on Saturday in Miami. Acuña will miss the rest of the season, the Braves announced. was better than I anticipated, quite honestly. There’s a lot of unknowns for someone who has never been through something like that.” No timetable has been set for the surgery. Snitker said the Braves will not use of the loss of Acuña as an excuse in the second half of the season. “We just have to continue to play,” Snitker said. “We have to rally the forces and continue to go. That’s

what you do in our business; you just keep going.” Acuña landed awkwardly on his right leg after jumping on the warning track in right field trying to catch a drive from Jazz Chisholm Jr. in the fifth inning. He slammed into the outfield wall and crumbled on the warning track, immediately grabbing his right knee while Chisholm sprinted for an insidethe-park homer.

Acuña tried to walk off but dropped back to the ground in shallow right field. A trainer tended to him while a cart was retrieved, and concerned teammates gathered quietly around him. Tears welled in the 23-year-old’s eyes as he waited. When the cart pulled around to the nearby warning track, he had to be helped over and did not put any weight on his right leg.

Acuña, who made his big league debut in 2018 and was the National League Rookie of the Year, is hitting .283 with 24 home runs and 52 RBIs for the three-time defending NL East champions, who entered Sunday four games behind the firstplace New York Mets. “I know the team needs me and I want to be there for them, but I have the utmost confidence in them and know they will do great,” he said.

ment. area.” EMPHIS, Tenn. — Faced For Nutbush resident He also cited a widespread fear the threat of overburdened of being unnecessarily exposed to fear of contracting the itals, states across the country matched with the worry th onverting convention centers, Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, Julythe 14, virus. 2021 “All around, people are scared,” could lose stores that are ts facilities and performance the neighborhood. Offici he said. es into backup treatment sites Their fears are not unfounded. ven’t said if stores would oronavirus patients. In this majority-black city along the Gateway facility was What some Memphis, Tenthe Mississippi River, lawmakers If they did, shopping wo e, residents don’t get is why in and community leaders have been come more difficult for re r city, a shopping center in the sounding the alarm over what they especially for those who ar dle of a predominantly black, see as a disturbing trend of the vi- have no means of transpo income residential neighborrus killing African Americans at a to stores located farther aw d has been chosen. “For people who don’t higher rate. ty and state officials are conNutbush resident Patricia Har- car, what do they do?” ask ed that an influx of patients ris wondered aloud if city officials ris, who spoke to The Ass m Memphis, as well as nearby were “trying to contaminate” the Press while lugging a bott sissippi, Arkansas and rural tergent, a package of bott neighborhood. Tennessee, will strain hospitionships and my life,” he said. By Jim Mustain ter and other items from t Activist Earle Fisher, an AfriTheir fears are echoed across “Your honor, I’ve learned that The Associated Press ADRIAN SAINZ | AP PHOTO A Lot to her car. She note can American Memphis pastor, country: Governors, mayors all the fame, notoriety and mongrocery store recently clos understands the anxiety. “This health experts in numerous April 3, is 2020 photo, shows Gateway Shopping Center ey in the world meaningless. NEW YORK — A tearful,This re- Friday, TV and Twitter, your honor, mean pentant Michael Avenatti, the is an honest and reasonable con- her house and she already es are also researching and in Memphis, Tenn. nothing,” he said. brash lawyer who once representcern and skepticism,” Fisher said. travel farther to get to Gat tructing makeshift medical He ended his statement by sayStormy Daniels in lawsuits “When we do things “I think it’s par for the course for ities. ed against President Donald Trump, ing he expects his three children, got to consider the people black people to be righteously a Chinese restaurant and other Lee has disclosed a few: the Mun New York City, they’re turnwas sentenced Thursday to 2 1/2 including two teenage daughters skeptical of governmental inter- neighborhood,” she said. “W Center in Nashville, theto businesses. o the Javits convention who wrote letters to the judge, yearsCenter in prison for trying tosic ex-City be ashamed of him. tort upthe to $25 million from Nike Locating a treatment center for vention that did not consult with need to make the neighb Chattanooga Convention Center, in Chicago, McCormick “Because if they are ashamed, by threatening company with Knoxville worse than it already is.” Expo Center — allit coronavirus patients there pos- people on the ground first.” e Convention Center;theand in the means theirresidential moral compass is ex- es two problems, residents say: U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, Doug McGowen, the city’s chief from neighdy, Utah,bad thepublicity. Mountain Amer- sites away Avenatti, 50, rose to prom- actly where it should be,” he said. phis Democrat, said the d operating officer, said the GateIt could potentially expose them borhoods. Expo Center. The judge agreed, noting that inence by sparring publicly doesn’t make sense. way site was being considered beto the virus amid concerns that The Avenatti Gateway Shopping Cenhe U.S. with ArmyTrump, Corpsbut of criminal Engi- fraud had not shown contrition “I’m sure there are othe cause it could potentially accomter in or theaccepted Nutbush neighborhood s has been scouting responsibility for his blacks are contracting COVID-19 charges on twolocations coasts disrupted crimes. his ascent. He was convicted last would work, and they Tennessee, and officials here of Memphis is different. The cen- at higher rates; and it could force modate hundreds of beds. He said that JOHN MINCHILLO | AP PHOTO Gardephe somegrocery leniency some of the stores they rely on to if it were converted to a treatment have used those rather t yearaoflist attempted extortion ter andfeatures a Savesaid A Lot compiled of 35 possideserved because prosecutors Michael Avenatti departs a scheduled sentencing other charges in connection with was at Manhattan federal court, 8, 2021, neighbo into a July residential site, it would hold only mildly illThursday, a Rent-A-Center, a Fami- close. backup sites. They haven’t re- store, his representation of a Los Ange- declined to charge Mark Geragos, in New York. Nutbush resident and commu- coronavirus patients who could be Cohen said. ly Dollar, a beauty supply ed the whole list,basketball but Gov. league Bill orgaa prominent attorney whoshop, played les youth

Avenatti sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison for extortion

nizer who was upset that Nike had a critical role in the scheme. Geragos first reached out to a Nike ended its league sponsorship. U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gar- contact and remained silent at dephe called Avenatti’s conduct meetings and on phone calls as he “outrageous,” saying he “hijacked and Avenatti shared a “good cop, his client’s claims” and “used those bad cop routine.” Avenatti’s legal woes are far claims to further his own agenda, which was to extort millions of from over. He also faces a fraud trial in the Los Angeles area, a dollars from Nike for himself.” Avenatti, the judge added, “had second California criminal trial become drunk on the power of his later this year and a separate triplatform, or what he perceived the al next year in Manhattan, where power of his platform to be. He he is charged with cheating Danhad become someone who operat- iels out of hundreds of thousands ed as if the laws and the rules that of dollars. Avenatti represented Daniels in applied to everyone else didn’tbin ap-Salman, a son of King Salman, Associated Press 2018 ply to him.” assented to in thelawsuits deal. against Trump, Before the judge spoke, Avenat- appearing often on cable news “I go with the consent, so I UBAI, tiUnited Arab Emirdelivered emotional remarks, programs to disparage the Repubagree,” the prince said, chuckling, — OPEC, Russiachoking and other president. He even explored sometimes up and speak- lican drawing a round of applause roducing Sunday running against Trump infrom 2020, ingnations through on tears. “I and I alone boasting that call. he would “have no destroyed my career, rela- on the video ized anhave unprecedented pro-my those

PEC, oil nations agree o nearly 10M barrel cut

problem raising money.” Those political aspirations evaporated when prosecutors in California and New York charged Avenatti with fraud in March 2019. California prosecutors said he was enjoying a $200,000-a-month lifestyle while cheating clients out of millions of dollars and failing to pay hundreds of thousands to the Internal Revenue Service. Charges alleging he cheated Daniels out of proceeds from a book deal followed weeks later. Avenatti pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintained he was a victim of politically motivated attacks. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky told Gardephe that Avenatti deserved “substantial

imprisonment,” because he used his client “as a way to get himself rich.” Defense lawyers sought a six-month prison term followed by a year of home detention. Perry told the judge that recordings of Avenatti’s profanity-laced threats to Nike lawyers made her “skin crawl,” but she said she also felt mean-spirited backlash from people who expressed hated toward her client. In a victim-impact statement, Nike’s lawyers said Avenatti did considerable harm to the company by falsely trying to link it to a scandal in which bribes were paid to the families of NBA-bound college basketball players to steer them to powerhouse programs. An employee of Adidas, a Nike

competitor, was convicted in that prosecution. The lawyers said Avenatti threatened to do billions of dollars of damage to Nike and then falsely tweeted that criminal conduct at Nike reached the “highest levels.” Avenatti’s former client, Gary Franklin Sr., said in a statement submitted by prosecutors that Avenatti’s action had “devastated me financially, professionally and emotionally.” Franklin and representatives of Nike attended the sentencing. An attorney for Franklin released a statement saying that his client was grateful to the court for “honoring the very painful experience he went through at the hands of Michael Avenatti.”

But it had not been smiles and ion cut of nearly 10 million els, or a 10th of global supply, laughs for weeks after the soopes of boosting crashing pric- called OPEC+ group of OPEC mid the coronavirus pandemic members and other nations failed in March to reach an agreement a price war, officials said. This could be the largest re- on production cuts, sending pricion in production from OPEC es tumbling. Saudi Arabia sharply perhaps a decade, maybe lon- criticized Russia days earlier over the Philippines. By Jim Gomez what it described as comments said U.S. Energy Secretary China is increasingly asserThe Associated Press Brouillette, who credited critical of the kingdom, which tive about pressing its territorial claims, which is fueling tension ident Donald Trump’s per- finds MANILA, Philippines — itself trying to appease with neighbors including Japan, Swarmsinofgetting Chineseduelvessels Trump, have a longtime OPEC critic. l involvement India, Vietnam and the Philipdumped human waste and wasteEven U.S. senators had warned parties to the table and helppines. water for years in a disputed area of to end the a price war between Saudi Arabia to find a way to China’s People’s Liberation South China Sea, causing algae boost prices as American shale di Arabiablooms and Russia. Army said it sent ships and planes that have damaged coral il pricesreefs haveand collapsed asfish thein anfirms after the U.S.S. Benfold entered threatened un- face far-higher production waters claimed by Beijing around catastrophe, a U.S.-based costs. American troops had been navirus folding and the COVID-19 SAUDI ENERGY the Paracel Islands. expert said Monday. ss it causes have largely halt- deployed to the kingdom for the In March, Philippine authorities Satellite images over the last five lobal travel and slowed down first time since the Sept. 11, 2001, In this photo released by Saudi Energy Ministry, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al-Saud, Minist spotted more than 200 Chinese years show how human waste, sewattacks over concerns of Irani- Energy of Saudi Arabia, third right, chairs a virtual summit fishing r energy-chugging sectors of the vessels GroupatofWhitsun 20 energy Reef,minister age and wastewater have accumuas manufacturing. has coordinate a response to plummet the northeastern periphery of lated and caused It algae in a an clus-retaliation amid regional ten- his office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, April 10, 2020, toin sions. stated ter theof oil in region prices due to an oversupply in the market and a downturn inUnion global demand due to the pandem Banks, and demanded that reefs industry in the Spratlys China withdraw them from the wherenow hundreds Chinese fish“They’ve spent over the last U.S., which pumpsof more area. China ignored the demand ing ships anchored in batches, month waging war on American e than any otherhave country. weeks, while continuing to assaid Liz Derr, who heads Simularipraise. Andrés ut sometyproducers have been oil producers while we are defend- that Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the deal but its president, for sert the reef is its own territory. Inc., a software company creat“The argued pure size Manuel López Obrador, had said the United Arab Emirates would ing theirs. This is not how friends ctant to ing ease supply. The carThe Philippines thatof the cu artificial intelligence technoloprecedented, but, Friday that he had agreed with cut another 2 million barrels of treat friends,” said Sen. Kevin nd other nations on Sunday Whitsun Reef lies well within an then ag gies for satellite imagery analysis. internationally recognized stretch is the impact the corona least 236 were spotted Cramer, a Republican from North oil a day between them atop the Trump that the U.S. will compened to allowAtMexico toships cut only waters it has exclusive said M in theaatoll, internationally having on demand,” to where OPEC+ deal. The three countries sate what Mexico cannot ofadd Dakota, before the OPEC+ deal. 000 barrels month, a stick- known rights to exploit oil,angas as Union Banks, initially on June 17 alone, medfisheries, Ghulam, energy an U.S. producers have already did not immediately acknowledge the proposed cuts. point for an accord and other sea resources. It cited the she said at a Philippine online news Raymond James. “The big Oil Deal with OPEC been reducing output. The Amer- the cut themselves, though Zanhed Friday after a marathon international tribunal’s 2016 rulforum on China’s actions in the PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD/NATIONAL TASK FORCE-WEST PHILIPPINE SEA VIA AP But Ghulam the video confer- Plus is done. This will save ican Petroleum Institute laud- ganeh attended o conference na- Beijing inghunthat invalidated China’s and vast others South between China Sea,23which may not on behistorenough. dreds of Task thousands of energy jobs ence. ed Sunday’s global7,pact, s. The nations together agreed claims to theit waterway has claimed virtually in its entirety. In this March 2021,saying handoutitphoto provided by the Philippine Coast Guard/National Force-West ical said grounds and unanimously up-a tempo “Whenbarrels the ships adon’t the help Philippine Sea,nations’ some of the 220 Chinese vessels said are seen moored at Whitsun South China Sea. Trump “This is at least in the United States,” Officials other planned cuts Reef, get other stateut 9.7 million daymove,will the Philippines’ sovereignindustry poop piles Derr said. “The owned hunlief for the energy thank oil production to follow the would stand in the deal, meaning in a tweet. “I would like toheld ughout May and up,” June. rights to the exclusive This i of ships arejust anchored in of U.S. producers that are try- an 8-million-barrel-per-day cut and congratulate President theso-called global economy. Pulead he groupdreds reached thethat deal “This is a catastrophe of epic other disputed area of the South economic zone. the Spratlys are dumping raw sew- al outcrops in Union Banks, which is tooprotesters big to beheld let to ofhundred July through end of the ing to adjust to plunging s beforeageAsian A few a fail and Chinatin Seaof onRussia Mondayand afterKing Wash-Salman proportions and we arethe close to the is also claimed by the demand. Philippines, from onto themarkets reefs they reare occupyliance showed responsibil Saudi Arabia.” year and a 6-million-barrel cut for Brouillette said the U.S. did not ned Monday and as internaington warned an attack on the noisy rally Monday in front of the although it has no presence in the point of no return,” Derr said. ing.” this agreement,” said Per M The Kremlin beginning in of 2021. make vast commitments of its own 16 months Chinese Consulate in Manila to al benchmark might activate asaid mutu- President She warned that schools fish, Philippines atoll. ChineseBrent officials crude did not immemarkcall the fifth anniversary the of ana treaty. Putin held a joint migratory breed al defense Department Foreign Af- including diately react assessment Nysveen, the ofhead Vladimir “This will enabletuna, the rebalancproduction cuts, butofwas able to ed at just over $31to aDerr’s barrel ruling, China Energy. ignored and in the reefsoil that are being fairsobvious Assistant Eduardo ing of the shale environmental damage,show but the Rystad “Even tho withaffirmed Trump its andclaims Saudito King Sal-which of the markets anddamthe ex- Beijing —Secretary that plunging American producers have said in the past that they have Menez in Manila said the findings aged and could cause fish stocks portions of the sea that also are continues to defy. The protesters demand because of the pandem- pected rebound of prices by $15 man to express support of the production cuts are small ggle. taken steps to protect the fisherwould have to be assessed and vali- to considerably decline in an off- claimed by Southeast Asia gov- lashed out at President Rodrigo the market needed a deal. ItIt rejected also saidthePutin sep- whowhat barrel term,” said ic is slash U.S. oil proideo aired theand Saudi-owned Duterte, has nurtured closer ernments. Bidenspoke shore area in thatthe is short a key regional dated by to Philippine authorities be- per iesby stock the environment in expected postpone the to stock arately with Trump about thewith oil Beijing, statement from Nigeria’s oil lite channel Al-Arabiya for refusing ag- buildi administration’s declaration of ties source. the South China Sea. Aside duction. from fore a decision on whether to lodge afood thatproblem, China com-the wor Sunday for other a 2016issues. inter- gressively demand Separately, China’s military said support a protest against China Chinese,that Vietnamese straints market and Iranian Oil Minister Bijancould Zan-be ministry. wed the the moment Saudi forcply with the landmark ruling. tribunal rulingoffered in favor of cautious it Mexico chased a U.S. out ofblocked an- national Analysts es have also Abdulaziz occupied some ganeh cor- made. now avoided.” hadwarship initially also told state television rgy Minister Prince

US expert: Images show Chinese ship waste endangering reefs

& CREMATORY 522 North 2nd St. P.O. Box 7 Albemarle, NC 28002 Phone 704-983-1188

460 Branchview Dr. NE P.O. Box 367 Concord, NC 28026 Phone 704-786-1161

13575 Broadway Ave. P.O. Box 100 Midland, NC 28107 Phone 704-888-5571

www.hartsellfh.com

12115 University City Blvd. P.O. Box 219 Harrisburg, NC 28075 Phone 704-247-1722

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

obituaries Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020

obituaries William Graves

Barbara Cox

Ed Talbert

WILLIAM MARK GRAVES, ED JUNIOR TALBERT, 77, of 72, of New London, NC passed away Albemarle, passed away Saturday, Monday, July 5, 2021 at his home. July 10, 2021 in hisTony home surrounded Jason Mark was born June 3, 1949 by his family. Smith in Burlington, NC toEfird the late Ben Ed was born January 20, 1944 Wellington Graves and the late Jessie in Stanly County to the late Hurle72, of ASON EUGENE “GENE” ONY MONROE SMITH, Lee Overman Graves. Talbert and the late Mary EFIRD, 94, went home to be with Rockwell, NC, wentEthel to be with There beTuesday, a privateApril family Talbert. He was preceded in hiswill Lord 7, 2020, at his his Lord andalso Savior Jesus Christ graveside service at a later date. deathonbyWednesday, brothers, George home in Stanfield. April 8,Talbert 2020 at Gene was October 9, 1925, in his home surrounded family. A He is survived byborn his beloved and Bobby Talbert; sister by Virginia to the late SimeonMedlin; private family service will be held. wife of Cabarrus 53 years, County Janice Lee Phillips grandson Zachary Almond; Efird Stacey and theGraves; late Sarah Ella and his Online condolences canTalbert. be made at Graves;Jason daughter, faithful friend Boo Efird. In addition to his brother,Burris Danny (Sherry) Graves; Edstanlyfuneralhome.com was a welder his whole life. parents, he was Amity, preceded in death by Tony was born August 11, 1947 four granddaughters, Taylor, He loved to hunt and fish. Since he his wife, Jewell Little Efird; sisters, in Stanly County to the late Morgan, and Kaylee; and five greatretired, Ed loved hanging out inPearlie the Mary Lambert, Fannie Almond, Asbury Smith and Emmer Lee grandchildren. backyard with his friends and Boo. Minnie Furr, Wilma Burleson and Smith. He was the son in law of Pat Mark was aHuskey; devotedand and loving Homer The family always Aileen brothers, and Mick has Cagle wherecelebrated he worked at husband, father, grandfather, greatEd’ s life while he was living.years until Efird, Getus Efird and Wayne Efird, the fish house for many grandfather, Survivors include his loving wife Sr. brother, and friend. He he opened Anchor House Seafood retired from Hendrick Motorsports, 59 years, Talbert A private funeral service will be of almost in Rockwell. HeJoyce and his wife Becky where he spent his career in 11, 2020 of Albemarle; daughter, held on Saturday, April owned and operated Debbie Anchor House NASCAR. Hesalso enjoyed Hildreth; son, Edward at Love’ Grove Unitedspending Methodist (Anthony) for 25 years before retiring in 2009. Church in Stanfield Mr. daughters, Smith was aLisa charter member time fishing at Cemetery the lake and off of Talbert; Talbert, officiated deacon at Open Door Baptist Hatteras Island.by Rev. Jim White. BurialEtheland (Brian) Almond and Angela will follow atbe themade Love’sto Grove Church in Richfield. Kristen He loved the Memorials may the United Talbert; grandchildren, Methodist Church Cemetery, Lord and his abundantly. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, www. 4360 (Ryan) Banks andfamily Preston Talbert; Tony was a wonderful husband, cff.org. Polk Ford Road, Stanfield. sisters, Betty Hopkins, Alice father, and Survivors include son Gerald Pickler, grandfather and could anything Thelma Lucas, andfixConnie Wayne (Gail) Efird of Albemarle; he put his hands on. Ridenhour; and brother, Bill Talbert. daughter Lisa Efird (Mark) Hartsell Mr. Smith is survived by his wife Memorials may be made of Stanfield; granddaughters, Becky Cagle Smith of theto home, American Cancer Society, Kelly Efird Barbee and Lauren sons Walter Smith and and Robbie & Palliative Hartsell (Justin) Crump; and great-Hospice Smith; daughter Care Kaylaof Henderson Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Ln, grandsons, Ian Patrick Simmons and (Brandon); grandchildren Danielle, Kannapolis, NC Steele 28081.Smith, Keaton Elliot Jacob Simmons. Dustin, and

Memorials may be made to Love’s Grove United Methodist Church, PO Box 276, Stanfield, NC 28163-0276.

and Ella Henderson; brother David Smith; sisters Kay Kriechbaum, Karen Stevenson, Ruby Eudy, and Dorothy Smith (Nick). He is preceded in death by brothers Joe Smith, Wayne Smith, Claude Smith, Wade Smith, Robert Smith, and sister Mary Morris. Memorial contributions can be made to Open Door Baptist Church at 44563 Hwy 52, Richfield, NC 28137 or to Hospice & Palliative Care of Cabarrus County at 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Katherine Cox

KATHERINE NORMA JEAN PARSONS COX, 79, of Albemarle, NC, passed away Sunday, July 11, 2021 in her home with her loving Pauline daughters at her side. Her funeral service will be 2pmTucker Thursday, July 15, 2021 in AULINE the StanlyELIZABETH Funeral and CremationALMOND Care Chapel with Caleb TUCKER, 98, passed BETTY MCKINNEY Collins away officiating. Burial will follow peacefully at Trinity Place, HARTSELL passed away at Forrest Albemarle, NC on Aprilwith 11, 2020. Oakes Nursing Facility on July 6, in Stanly Garden of Memory Pauline was born onfamily March 22, 2021 at the age of 87. Caleb Collins officiating. The 1922 in Cabarrus County, NC to the Betty is predeceased by her will speak with friends prior to the service.late John Richard Almond and Alicehusband, PL Hartsell; parents, Shirley Almond. Mrs.Ada CoxAnn was Lambert born April 6, 1942 Lawrence and Patty McKinney; She is survived by her three in Montgomery Country, to the late Haire sisters, Janelle Long and Joanne daughters, Gay Michel (Jack), David Parsons and Lois Hughes Litaker; and brothers, Lawrence and Oak Island, NC; Pamela Rushing HIRLEY MAE HAIRE, 73, Parsons.(Foreman), She worked with her Oakboro, NC; Kathy Roy McKinney. of Albemarle passed away on husband’ s business, General Betty lovingly Hunt (Marc),Lathan Albemarle, NC; her Aprilis11, 2020 atremembered Atrium Health Contractors, INC. She was a member by her children, Larrywill Plowman son, Chris Tucker (Chris Lear), Stanly. The family hold a private of NorthWashington, Albemarle DC. Baptist She Church. will be greatly(Donna), Kathy Barbee graveside service for (Jack) Mrs. Haire. Katherine is preceded in death missed by her five grandchildren, and Kevin (Kennitha). ShirleyPlowman was born December 12, by her husband, Lathan Chaney G. Cox (Shannon), Heather Rushing She was as “Granny” tothe 1946known in Washington, DC to who passed on May 10, 2015. She is Michael Rushing, Elizabeth Michel her 5late grandchildren andBateman 10 great-and Charles Richard JackAngela Michel, Jr. grandchildren. survivedHartzog by two(Craig), daughters, Elizabeth Mae Bateman. SheMulligan is also survived by (Jenn),(Brian) and Woody Hunt asAnn well as several Shirley Jean Collins and Sherrie is survived by her husband nieces and nephews. seven great-grandchildren. Richards both of Albemarle, NC;She a also A of 30 years Vaughn lifelong resident ofSmith Stanlyof behind cherished nieces brother,leaves Clement Parsons (Mae) of and County, Albemarle; sisterup Sandra Painter Betty grew in Badin and nephews. ofmany Gainesville, VA;Lake half-brother Albemarle, NC; three sisters, Sedina spent years on Tillery. She The family expresses its sincere Robertsettled Bateman of Stevensville, Bush (Jim) of Melbourn, FL, Vickie ultimately in New London. gratitude to the staff and caregivers Smith Edwards (Ray) of Advance, NC and BettyMD; wasstep-children the owner ofHeather the muchat Trinity Place for the care they of Jacksonville, FL and David Debbie provided SaundersPauline. (Phillip) of Ophir, lovedSmith Harmanco’ s restaurant from of New London, NC; 4 NC; sevenAgrandchildren; seven to mid- 1980s. private graveside service will bethe mid-1960s step-grandchildren; nieces She Cyndi great-grandchildren and several at of Central Lunch in her held on Monday, April 13, 2020. A also worked Hentschel Leesburg, VA and nieces and nephews. celebration of Pauline’s life and legacy laterCheryl years. Hardy of Aylett, VA; 16 grandMemorials maythis be made to, The will be held summer. A nieces privateand service will be a nephews; andheld Gusat the Gideons International, P.O.the Box In lieu of flowers, family laterdog. date.Stanly Funeral and Cremation requests donations beor made 585, Albemarle, NC 28002 to to the Memorials may be sent to: the Care of Albemarle is serving BrightFocus at www. Community Home Foundation Care & Hospice Haire Hospice offamily. Cabarrus County 5003 brightfocus.org. Troy, 1024 Albemarle Rd #904, Troy, Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC NC 27371. 28081. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www. stanlyfuneralhome.com.

Betty Hartsell

BARBARA JEAN WHITLEY COX, 81, of New Salem, passed away Sunday, July 11, 2021 at Novant Merle Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte. Helms Barbara was born January 24, ERLE LORRAINE AUSTIN 1940 inHELMS, North Carolina to the late 72, of Marshville, Relas Addison Whitley and the8,late passed away Wednesday, April Osie Cordelia Kiker Whitley. 2020 at McWhorter Hospice House inShe Monroe. was also preceded in death by Lorraine was born 28, 1947 daughter, Pamela JeanApril Lowery; son, in Monroe to theKillough; late Homer David William “Eddie” brothers, Austin and Jewell Delphia-Jane Ray Whitley, Dub Whitley; sister, Austin. SheKiker; was also preceded in Jennie Mae and an infant death by brothers, A.D. and Teddy sister. Austin; and sister, Joy Austin. The family will receive friends The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm 6:00 pm, Sunday, from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Friday, July 18, 2021 at Hartsell Funeral April 10, 2020 at Hartsell Funeral Home HomeofofConcord. Albemarle. The funeral Survivors include sons, service will be at 11:00 amNey on Killough NC, Allen SaturdayofatMarshville, Pleasant Hill Baptist (Beth) Killough of Newofficiated Salem, Church in Marshville, NC, Cox and of Charlotte, by and Rev. Daniel John Miller Rev. Leon Whitley. She will lie inBrooks; state for 30 NC; daughter, Brenda minutes priorStrube to the service. She will sister, Frances and many be laid to rest in the church cemetery. grandchildren, great-grandchildren She is survived by her beloved and great-great-grandchildren. husband 47 years, Paul Helmsas Barbaraofwill be remembered of the home; son, Alex (Deanna) a strong-willed and self-sufficient Helms of Pageland; daughter, Paula woman, who in spite of life’s struggles (Cristin Brandt) Helms of Mint Hill; successfully raised five children and grandchildren, Mason, Grant, and several grandchildren by herself. Raegan Helms; brothers, Boyce, She had Tim a tenacious and Royce, Austin; life andspirit sisters, determination her to Patricia Mullis,that andallowed Angel Tarleton. overcome several accidents Memorials may be madeand to the health issuess that she survived Alzheimer’ Association, 4600 Park Rd., Suite against the 250, odds.Charlotte, Barbara NC had28209. a fierce love for her family and she will always be loved and remembered dearly.

Linda Hatley

INDA TUCKER HATLEY, 69, of Albemarle, passed away Monday, April 13, 2020. Linda was born September 18, 1950 in Concord to the late Jacob and Claris Tucker. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Terry Lee Tucker, and her twin sister, Brenda Tucker Strickland. We know Brenda and Linda are in Heaven watching over us and laughing. Linda was a loving mother, sister, and “Nana.” She was a very giving and loving person. Linda would Celebrate the life always anything sheones. could for of do your loved others, especially her family. She Submit obituaries enjoyed working at FastShop #5, and death notices Locust. Linda will be forever loved to bemissed. published in and greatly Survivors SCJ include ather son, Alan Hatley and wife, Angela, of obits@stanlyjournal.com Albemarle; brother, Ronnie Tucker and wife, Linda, of Midland; granddaughter, Leslie Hatley; 1 niece; and 2 nephews. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Thursday, April 16, 2020 at Hartsell Funeral Home in Albemarle. Linda will be laid to rest during a private committal service at Bethel United Methodist Church, Midland. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Bethel UMC, 12700 Idlebrook Rd, Midland, NC 28107.

David Sanges

Clarence Fink

DAVID EDWARD SANGES, ON SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2021, 65, of Albemarle, died Friday, July Clarence Ronald Fink passed away 9, 2021, at Atrium Health Main in at the age of 75 surrounded by family Danny Jerry Charlotte, NC. within his home. He was a beloved Luther Fincher Dave was born in Tampa, FL, husband, father, brother, Paw Paw, on April 21, 1956,passed to thefrom late James andANNY faithful servant to the Lord. PAUL LUTHER, ERRY FINCHER William Anne Clarence, most referred as Bub, 65, of Norwood, passedtoaway this life on Sanges April 3, and 2020Sadie at 8:05 His childhood crossed was born onThursday, January 12, 1946, unexpectedly April 9, to pm. Pickler. He was surrounded by his family state lines duelove to his Robert and Ethel Fink. He was 2020 at Atrium Health Stanly in one and multiple holding the hand of the of father being anisofficer in the U.S. Air of nine siblings, and family meant thehis life. Albemarle. Jerry preceded in death Force. The Sanges familyBilly landed Mr. Luther 27, he by three siblings, two brothers, world to him.was Onborn JulyMarch 10, 1965, 1955 to thethe latelove Robert Fulton and Gilbert Fincher, andNC, Larry Richard in Albemarle, where Dave married of his life, Geraldine Helen TuckerHis Luther. Fincher, oneinsister, Barbra Joyce was and active Boy Scouts, pranks, Ann Fink. love for her was Danny measure, was survived hiswas wife,never Moore. spending time outside with his without andbyone Denise Burleson Luther ofthe Norwood; is survived by his wife, Eleanor friends, playing football and getting truly complete without other. The He sons, Luther and 56th Kateinto Fincher of theHe home, daughter, mischief. graduated from LordJeremy called(Karen) him home on their Jody Luther; step-sons, Bryan Fincher Jacobs Wingate Albemarle High of School in 1974 and wedding anniversary, so they could Cindy Whitley and Gregg (Anita) Whitley; NC., son and daughter in law, Tommy served in the U.S. Air Force from celebrate together again. They Grandchildren, Daniel Luther andspent (Tiffany) Fincher of New London where he reached their life together giving constantly Hunter Zado, as well as his brother, NC.,1976-1980 Step Children, Jimmy (Lisa) the rank of Sergeant. In June 1980, this to others, the Lord, while Bob Lutherserving Jr (Lorena), uncle Jack Lanier of Locust NC, Wanda (Bob) southernofgentleman married raisingand their two other beautiful Luther several loveddaughters, nieces, Krimminger Locust NC., Eric the late Teresa SangesNC., and they Christy and andcousins. Cheri. nephews (Sharon) Lanier Sides of Charlotte shared 26 years(Gera) together before her Bub was a highly regarded Danny recently retired from Grandchildren-Trey Whitson passingStep-grandchildren, in 2006. Dave received a Charlotte Pipe and Foundry after master carpenter and brick mason of Midland, afor dedicated 37 years (Brittney) Washington, Aaron degree from the University nearly 40 years.and Heworked found great Zachbusiness there sons and several other Washington, (Nayeli) and of North CarolinaCaleb at Charlotte joy inwith thehis simplest of pleasures. He (Kinsey) friends and family in members. Washington, Beth (Robbie) had a successful careerSetzer, as a District loved partaking activities such loved spendinggardening, time at Matthew April ) Wallace, Sales(Manager withinStep a variety of asDanny cooking, carpentry, his lake house He withwill hisforever family and great-grandchildren, Britlyn-Eve industries. and fishing. be friends as well as vacationing with his Washington, Robert Setzer, Within his 65 yearsGeorge of life, remembered for his humble, kind family. Danny and Denise enjoyed (Sara) Setzer, Tracy (Rob) Setzer Dave would say his most prized nature. He represented a quiet listening to beach music and loved to Bumgardener, Katie Underwood, accomplishment would be the title of strength all around and was Andrew shag danceto every chance him they could Underwood, Step great “Dad,” later becoming “Papa Geez.” such an example to others of what it get. He was an amazing father, loving great grandchild, Waylon George Heand wasbrother a strong and loving means to be a Godly man.to He was Setzer grandfather and great friend Donald Lewis family manofcherishing of laughter, extremely grounded his faith, and Fincher many. He will never be in forgotten. Albemarle,moments NC. fellowship, Dave always put great emphasis A celebration of life will be on his Jerry Fincherand will conversation. be laid to rest on was alsoApril a strong fighter. Heam beat own integrity. several healthWednesday announced onceThrough the current 8,2020 at 11:00 leukemia twice and faced multiple COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. at Canton Baptist Church. Anyone obstacles over the years, his faith Hartsell Funeral Home of in attending, please“We RSVP trials with the mantra, got this.” never wavered, only strengthened. Heinterested Albemarle is serving Luther Dr.who Phil McCray Most people knew Dave started and ended the every day giving at 704-796-2412. family. Pastor Tommy that heFincher rarely will wore the same thanks and recognition to God. He and realized officiate. outfit twice. He was a gifted interior had a great passion for service and decorator, collected antiques, always spent all his life as an active church had a stash of Bugles in the kitchen and community member. Some (which he enjoyed feeding to the of the greatest memories of his life grandpups), and could generate songs were those spent as a missionary. to familiar tunes on a whim. When His passion for mission work took asked a question he didn’t know him all around the world, including the answer to, he had the ability to Paraguay, Honduras, Mexico, and answer with confidence, even if it Peru. He truly left a piece of his heart was an elaborate made-up response. everywhere he went. He was a hopeless romantic which Bub is survived and lovingly was evident in his creative writing remembered by his daughters, abilities. There is quite a collection Christy Fink Eudy (Jody) of of poems he has authored over the Mount Pleasant, and Cheri Fink years! Dave was quick witted and full Hopkins (Matthew) of Concord; of humor which drew people to him… grandchildren: Joshua Cameron that and, he knew how to dazzle a Eudy, Adam Lane Eudy, Shawn crowd with a joke, story or “magic” Christopher Hopkins, and Taylor trick. Dave often brought humor into Averette Foley; siblings: Mary difficult situations which is a reason Francis Brooks (EJ) of Stanfield, he was adored by so many. His Boyce Ray Fink (Linda) of Concord, generosity knew no bounds and he Ernest Wayne Fink (Carolyn) of would drop anything to be available Mount Pleasant, and Tony Morrison when needed, especially for his girls. Fink (Steve) of Matthews; and The funeral service will be held at numerous cousins, nieces, and 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 15, 2021 nephews. at First Baptist Church of Albemarle Bub is predeceased by his loving followed by a drop in BBQ and parents, Robert Morrison Fink and Brown picnic at his home from 2:00 Ethel Mae Fink; and his siblings: PM - 5:00 PM. Daphne Rose Fink, Clement Eugene He is survived by his two Fink, Robert Wilson Fink, and Peggy daughters, Amanda Sanges Bellamy Mae Troutman. andloved Brittany Sanges Facinoli We invite you to join us and Celebrate the life of(Chris) your (Theo); granddaughter, Tessa celebrate the beautiful life Bub lived. ones. Submit obituaries and Facinoli; and three siblings, Nathan Bub’s Life Celebration will take place Sanges (Marlene), on Wednesday, July 14th, 2021, at death notices to be published inJane Sanges and Beverly Sanges Moser (Dave). 2:30 p.m., at Bethel Baptist Church In lieu of flowers, donations of Locust,SCJ 617 Bethel Church Rd, at obits@stanlyjournal.com can be made to the Leukemia and Locust, NC 28097. The service will be officiated by Pastor Brian Bolding. Lymphoma Society. Now, “Go out and make it a good Prior to the service, visitation and day, and learn something in the receiving of the family will begin at process.” -Dave 1:00 p.m.. Graveside services will Hartsell Funeral Home of follow at the Bethel Church of Locust Albemarle is serving the Sanges Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be family. Online condolences may be made made to the Bethel Baptist Church at www.hartsellfh.com Missions Fund.

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

STATE & NATION

Tears, politics and money: School boards become battle zones By Stephen Groves The Associated Press RAPID CITY, S.D. — Local school boards around the country are increasingly becoming cauldrons of anger and political division, boiling with disputes over such issues as COVID-19 mask rules, the treatment of transgender students and how to teach the history of racism and slavery in America. Meetings that were once orderly, even boring, have turned ugly. School board elections that were once uncontested have drawn slates of candidates galvanized by one issue or another. A June school board meeting in Loudoun County, Virginia, that dealt with transgender students and the teaching of Critical Race Theory became so unruly that one person was arrested for disorderly conduct and another was cited for trespassing. In Rapid City, South Dakota, and Kalispell, Montana, nonpartisan school board races devolved into political warfare as conservative candidates, angered over requirements to wear masks in schools, sought to seize control. In Pennsylvania, a Republican donor is planning to pour $500,000 into school board races. “We’re in a culture war,” said Jeff Holbrook, head of Rapid City’s Pennington County GOP. In South Carolina’s Lexing-

BOB SELF | THE FLORIDA TIMES-UNION VIA AP, FILE

In this June 10, 2021, file photo, Ben Frazier, the founder of the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville speaks during the Department of Education meeting in Jacksonville, Fla. ton-Richland school system, a new majority of board members upset over pandemic restrictions forced out the superintendent, Christina Melton, who had pushed to keep a mask requirement in place through the end of the academic year. She had been honored just weeks earlier as the state’s superintendent of the year. Melton broke into tears at a meeting in June as she offered her resignation. A board member also quit that day, complaining the body decided behind closed doors to force Melton out and avoid a

public vote. The board censured the departed member at its next meeting. “Now we’re known as the district with the crazy school board,” said Tifani Moore, a mother with three children and a husband who teaches in the district. Moore is running for the empty board seat and promises to tamp down the political split, which she worries has crippled the board. “It’s so thick, even the kids feel it,” she said. School boards are typically composed of former educators and

parents whose job, at least until recently, mostly consisted of ironing out budgets, discussing the lunch menu or hiring superintendents. But online meetings during the pandemic made it easier for parents to tune in. And the crisis gave new gravity to school board decisions. Parents worried their children were falling behind because of remote learning or clashed over how serious the health risks were. “I saw over and over again frustrated parents, thousands of parents, calling into their board meetings, writing letters and getting no response,” said Clarice Schillinger, a Pennsylvania parent who formed a group called Keeping Kids in School. She recruited nearly 100 parents to run in November for school boards across Pennsylvania. While the group coalesced around pushing for schools to fully open, its candidates have also sought to bar the teaching of Critical Race Theory, which among other things claims that racism is embedded in America’s laws and institutions. Schillinger said the group is split 70-30 between Republicans and Democrats. But its priorities are unmistakably conservative. She said it is trying to counter the sway teachers unions have over school boards: “It’s really less government — that’s what this comes down to.” Paul Martino, a venture capitalist who donates to Republican

candidates and pledged a half-million dollars to the movement and the creation of a statewide political action committee, said the new PAC will support candidates committed to keeping schools open no matter what, “even if there is the dreaded fall COVID surge.” Conservative slates of candidates elsewhere across the country have also set their sights on school boards. In Rapid City, four recently elected school board members will hold a controlling vote on the seven-member body, which oversees the education of roughly 14,000 students. In an area where Trump flags still fly, the four candidates for the usually nonpartisan board secured an endorsement in the June election from the local GOP. In previous elections, seats on the board were often filled in uncontested elections. But this year, the campaigns turned into political battles, complete with personal attacks. “I believe with all my heart this is how they are going to slip socialism and Marxism into our schools,” newly elected member Deb Baker said at a campaign event. Curt Pochardt, who was unseated as the school board president in the election, said he worries the new partisan dynamic will hurt students’ education. “It doesn’t help kids when there’s tension on a school board,” he said.

ERIN SCHAFF | THE NEW YORK TIMES VIA AP, POOL

In this April 23, 2021, file photo, members of the Supreme Court pose for a group photo at the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C.

Democrats craft voting bill with eye on Supreme Court fight By Travis Loller The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — As congressional Democrats gear up for another bruising legislative push to federalize elections, much of their attention has quietly focused on a small yet crucial voting bloc with the power to scuttle their plans: the nine Supreme Court justices. Democrats face dim prospects for passing voting legislation through a narrowly divided Congress. But as they look to reinstate some controversial aspects of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark civil rights-era law diminished over the past decade by Supreme Court rulings, they have accepted the reality that any bill they pass probably will wind up in litigation — and ultimately back before the high court. The high court’s conservative majority on July 1 issued its second major ruling in eight years narrowing the law’s power. “What it feels like is a shifting of the goal posts,” said Damon Hewitt, the president and executive director of the left-lean-

ing Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Sparring in Congress for months has focused on a different Democratic bill overhauling elections, known as the For the People Act, which Republican senators blocked from debate on the chamber’s floor last month. Separately, however, Democrats have held a marathon series of secret “field hearings” to prepare for votes on a second measure, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which could come to the House floor for a vote in September. The bill would allow courts and the Department of Justice to once again police changes to voting rules in places with a history of electoral discrimination against minorities, a practice the Supreme Court put on hold in 2013. Democrats hope the hearings they have conducted with little fanfare will help build a legislative record that could withstand a court challenge. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Friday that the process will document what he called “the disgraceful tactics that Republican-led state legis-

latures are using across the country to keep people from voting.” That’s criticism that Republicans reject, arguing that the courts and Democratic administrations have selectively enforced the law in the past. “It’s not a coincidence that a decade of court cases were only focused on Republican states,” said Rep. Rodney Davis, an Illinois Republican who sits on a committee that conducted the hearings. Progressive pressure has built for months on congressional Democrats to counteract state-level Republican push to enact new election integrity laws. But there is a new sense of urgency among many in the party’s activist base following the Supreme Court ruling in the case of Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee, which upheld two restrictive Arizona laws and will limit the ability to challenge voting restrictions in court. “We cannot wait until October or November,” said Rep. Joyce Beatty, an Ohio Democrat who chairs the Congressional Black Caucus. While the specifics of the legislation have not yet been released,

it would develop a new formula for determining which states and local governments would be subject to a review process known as “preclearance.” The court blocked the practice in 2013, ruling that the formula used to determine which places are subjected to it was outdated and unfairly punitive. Republicans say vast strides have been made in ballot access since the civil rights era, which is when the law’s preclearance formula was first established. The initial law targeted states and localities with low minority turnout and a history of using hurdles such as literacy tests and poll taxes to disenfranchise minority voters. Such barriers are no longer used, and Republicans point to a swell of minority turnout in the last election as proof that many conservative-leaning states, particularly in the South, should not be subjected to preclearance. They also point blame at Democrats, who in 2019 rejected a bipartisan bill to reestablish preclearance. Many Democrats instead favored their own measure, which would have eschewed the use of

minority voter turnout data, a pillar of the original Voting Rights Act, while leaning heavily on looser standards, such as using the number of legal settlements and consent decrees issued in voting rights cases, to pull places into preclearance. That would, Republicans argue, play into the hands of Democrats, who have built a sophisticated and well-funded legal effort to challenge voting rules in conservative-leaning states. “It shunned objective data,” said Jason Snead, executive director of the conservative Honest Elections Project. “They want to target Georgia and Texas and Florida. But when you actually look at turnout data, it’s Massachusetts that has half the black turnout rate that Georgia does. That’s why you get these games being played.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has made clear his opposition. He said last month that Democrats were aiming to achieve through the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act what they couldn’t through their other elections bill, the For the People Act. “It’s against the law to discriminate in voting on the basis of race already,” he said. “It is unnecessary.”

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 42 | WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

Twin City Herald Head to head in the Finals Milwaukee Bucks center Bobby Portis, right, reacts to a basket as Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul (3) looks on during the second half of Game 3 of basketball's NBA Finals in Milwaukee, Sunday, July 11, 2021.

PAUL SANCYA | AP PHOTO

WHAT’S HAPPENING Murder charge dismissed for woman over mental capacity Forsyth County A first-degree murder charge against a woman has been dismissed after it was determined she will never regain the mental capacity to stand trial. The decision came after a hearing in Forsyth County Superior Court in which a psychologist testified that the mental health issues of Tonesha Tonyae Collins, 38, prevent her from fully understanding her legal situation and participating in her defense. Collins was indicted in August 2017 for first-degree murder. She walked into a gas station on the morning of May 30, 2016, and shot the manager. AP

Man accused of torturing animals, posting videos Forsyth County A man faces multiple charges after investigators connected him to videos that showed him abusing and killing small animals. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office said Caleb Daniel Dewald, 19, of WinstonSalem, is charged with four counts of felony animal cruelty. Specifically, the sheriff’s office accuses Dewald of abusing three squirrels and a possum from Dec. 1, 2018, to June 29. Dewald captured a squirrel in 2018 and a possum in 2019 in metal cages and submerged the animals into containers filled with water. Dewald is accused of recording the incidents and sharing them on the internet. AP

Man killed at construction site Forsyth County Brian Crook, 49, of Piedmont, South Carolina, was killed while working at a construction site at the Lakeside subdivision off of Pilgrim Mill Road. Crook was cleaning a concrete pump truck when an air pocket in the piping forced him backward into traffic, where he was hit by a dump truck. He was killed on the scene. 11 ALIVE

Judge Victoria Roemer appointed Chief District Court Judge for Forsyth County Appointment becomes effective August 1, 2021 TCH staff CHIEF JUSTICE Paul Newby appointed Judge Victoria Roemer to serve as chief district court judge for Judicial District 21 (Forsyth County). He also appointed Judge Ned W. Mangum to serve as chief district court judge for Judicial District 10 (Wake County). The appointments become effective August 1, 2021. “The proper and fair administration of justice is the highest goal of the North Carolina Judicial Branch, and I have full confidence in Judge Mangum and Judge Roemer to ensure that their districts handle every case with the upmost care and respect,” Chief Justice Newby said. “Their 35 years of combined judicial

experience is a testament to their selflessness and dedication to upholding justice in our state.” Judge Roemer has served as a Forsyth County district court judge for 25 years. Before that, she has served as a Forsyth County magistrate, a Forsyth County assistant district attorney, and an assistant district attorney in Davie, Davidson, Iredell, and Alexander counties. Judge Roemer served five years as A.D.A., from 1987 to 1992. She has been a district court judge in the 21st judicial district since 1996. In addition, Judge Roemer worked in the private practice of law from 1986 to 1987. She earned a B.A. from Wake Forest University and a juris doctor from Wake Forest School of Law. She will replace Lisa Menefee, who has served as chief district judge since 2013. Judge Menefee is

planning to retire in August. Menefee was the first female to serve as chief district judge in Forsyth County. Judge Roemer will be the second. Judge Mangum has served as a Wake County district court judge since 2008. He served as Wake County district attorney from April 2014 to December 2014 before returning to the Wake County District Court bench. Before that, he worked as a Wake County assistant district attorney for 10 years. In 2018, Judge Mangum was president of the Wake County Bar Association. He is a current member of the North Carolina Board of Law Examiners where he began his service in 2018. He has worked as an adjunct professor at Meredith College since 2006, and holds a B.A. from North Carolina State University and juris doctor from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

"I have full confidence in Judge Roemer to ensure that her district handles every case with the upmost care and respect" Chief Justice Paul Newby

Eloy Jimenez rehabs in Winston-Salem Chicago White Sox star suits up for the Dash over the weekend TCH staff WINSTON-SALEM FANS ARE used to seeing future Major Leaguers play for the Dash on their way to the White Sox. This past weekend, they got to see a current big leaguer play for the team. The Chicago White Sox assigned Silver Slugger Award winning outfielder Eloy Jiménez to the High-A Dash for the weekend as part of his injury rehab. Jiménez has not played this season after suffering a ruptured pectoral tendon in spring training. In 2020 he ranked among the American League leaders in numerous offensive categories. The 24-yearold power hitter has already tallied 45 home runs in his promising young career. The 6’4 slugger dazzled Dash fans during a brief stint in Winston-Salem in 2017 on his path to the big leagues. In 29 games wearing a Dash jersey Jiménez batted .345 with 20 extra base hits and

26 RBI. “This is going to be an amazing opportunity to see a Major League star at Truist Stadium”, Dash President C.J. Johnson said prior to the appearance. “We have been fortunate to have some very talented players, including Eloy Jiménez, come through Winston-Salem the past few years on their way to the big leagues, and now we get to welcome one of those top prospects back.” MLB players who have served time on the injury list can work their way back into game shape with appearances for the team’s minor league affiliates. Players on MLB rehab do not count against the minor league team’s roster limits and are exempt to other minor league rules such as complying by the pitch clock to reduce time between pitches. Players often report to a team’s Triple-A or Double-A teams for rehab assignments, allowing them to work against players at a skill level closer to the Major Leagues. Jiménez is the first White Sox rehabber in Winston-Salem in several years. Current American League All-Star Carlos Rodon made a rehab start for the Dash

ORLIN WAGNER | AP PHOTO

Eloy Jimenez, shown with the White Sox, returned to WinstonSalem for three games as part of an injury rehab assignment in 2017 while rehabbing an injury, one of Winston-Salem’s most recent cameos by a big leaguer. Jiménez’s return to town was delayed by 24 hours when Friday’s game against Hickory was rained out. The team rescheduled it as part of a Saturday double header. Jiménez played designated hitter and batted third in the first game, going 2-for-4 with a two-

run home run in the sixth inning. He sat out Saturday’s second game, then started in left field on Sunday, batting third again. He went 1-for-3, walked and scored a run. He also committed an error in the outfield. When informed of Jiménez’s progress with Dash, Hall of Fame White Sox manager Tony La Russa declared, “Help is on the way.”

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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MEGHAN MCCAIN is leaving “The View.” One assumes that regular readers of editorial pages and political magazines aren’t exactly the prime audience for a daytime-television show. And one also assumes that a not insignificant number of Republicans aren’t fans of McCain because of her sharp criticism of former President Donald Trump. Yet I think it’s fair to say that McCain was probably one of the most consequential conservatives in media over the past four years. For one thing, “The View” captures a larger audience than any cable-news show in the country. It is watched by millions of Americans who are otherwise subjected to a nearly uninterrupted barrage of leftist political perspectives. During her four years on the show, McCain confronted numerous high-profile Democrats with questions that they would otherwise never have been asked. Quite often, I suspect, she brought up issues that a majority of the audience weren’t even aware existed. When James Comey was being treated like an American hero by an unctuous media, McCain confronted him over his phony apolitical posturing: “You sound like a political commentator to me.” When the disgraced Andrew McCabe turned up on “The View” and fueled conspiracies theories about Russia directing Trump to fire Comey — my God, what insanity we endured — she told him: “I don’t believe you’re a reliable narrator. And I’m not convinced this isn’t just some kind of PR campaign to stop yourself from getting indicted.” It was McCain who confronted former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, by then a CNN contributor, about his

IVY AV on 7/10/2021 ♦ ESCALONA, JHOVANY CRUZ was arrested on a charge of AFFRAY at 4820 OLD WALKERTOWN RD on 7/12/2021

♦ Bishop, Dazzmaquale Dwight (M/28) Arrest on chrg of Drugs-poss Sched Iii, M (M), at 6800 University Pw, Rural Hall, NC, on 7/10/2021 16:58.

♦ FULTON, ELIZABETH PRESTON was arrested on a charge of IMPAIRED DRIVING DWI at 849 W FOURTH ST/BURKE ST on 7/11/2021

♦ Bowles, Cedric Lamont (M/23) Arrest on chrg of Robbery (F), at 201 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/8/2021 16:12.

♦ GAUSE, BRITTNEY KEEONA was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 201 N CHURCH ST on 7/10/2021

♦ Crews, Jerry Lee (M/65) Arrest on chrg of Communicate Threats, M (M), at 100 Westwood Village Dr, Clemmons, NC, on 7/7/2021 10:15. ♦ Dewald, Caleb Daniel (M/19) Arrest on chrg of 1) Felony Cruelty To Animals (F), 2) Felony Cruelty To Animals (F), 3) Felony Cruelty To Animals (F), and 4) Felony Cruelty To Animals (F), at 6021 Yeaton Glen Dr, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/9/2021 13:45. ♦ DUFF, GARY LEE was arrested on a charge of RESISTING ARREST at N TRADE ST/ W SIXTH ST on 7/11/2021 ♦ DUFF, GARY LEE was arrested on a charge of LARCENY-FELONY at 2800

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contention, under oath, that the United States did not engage in the data collection of millions of Americans. “In 2013, when you were asked about it, you said no,” McCain said. “So that is a lie.” When CNN Brian Stelter was on the show preening about journalistic ethics, she said: “There’s a 2016 audio of your president, Jeff Zucker, offering debate advice to President Trump that was released. Jake Tapper was recently caught trying to allegedly influence a congressional election, and I have serious problems with the way Chris Cuomo had a reoccurring prime-time sort of comic routine with his brother instead of asking about policies that were literally sending my friend Janice Dean’s older relatives to die in nursing homes ... Do you believe that this is acceptable?” As the media were reporting on Republican “pouncing,” McCain confronted Kamala Harris about her support for defunding the police, twice — before the then-presidential candidate offered some evasive gibberish about how she “reimagined” public safety. She called out Pete Buttigieg’s radical support for abortion into the ninth month. “What if a woman wanted to invoke infanticide after a baby was born; you’d be comfortable with that?” McCain asked Buttigieg, who did not offer a straightforward answer. She also asked Amy Klobuchar about Ralph Northam’s comments on infanticide: “Are you for what he said or late-term abortion or the moments that he was talking about where he would keep a woman ‘comfortable’ as she was giving birth in case she wanted to abort her third-term child?” The presidential candidate

refused to answer. This is not, needless to say, the type of conversation one normally hears on major networks. McCain asked Elizabeth Warren, who had only recently been feted by the likes of Rachel Maddow and Seth Meyers, to explain why she changed her description of Qassem Soleimani from “murderer” to “military official.” “I don’t understand the flip-flop,” McCain said. “I don’t understand why it was so hard to call him a terrorist, and I would just like you to explain the change.” Three times McCain asked. And three times Warren deflected. When McCain challenged Raphael Warnock — who enjoyed a free ride in 2020 — to explain why he wouldn’t take a position on the left’s court-packing scheme, he refused to answer. And when McCain pressed him, “View” cohost Whoopi Goldberg stepped in to end the interview. McCain was probably also the only person on a major network who brought up, on numerous occasions, the normalization of antisemitism among progressives in the Democratic Party. These are just some of the exchanges that come to mind. There were surely others. Now, I don’t regularly watch “The View.” All I know is that very few conservatives ever get access to powerful Democrats. McCain did. And she wasn’t scared to pose tough questions. Which is a lot more than we can say for most of the political media. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at National Review and the author of the book “First Freedom: A Ride Through America’s Enduring History With the Gun.”

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♦ BETHEA, KATINA WILLETTE was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 181 HIGHLAND AVENUE on 7/11/2021

♦ Cowan, Matthew Lamont (M/35) Arrest on chrg of Rec/poss Stole Mv (F), at 2390 Lewisville-clemmons Rd, Clemmons, NC, on 7/7/2021 11:01.

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Meghan McCain often did what political media wouldn’t

♦ Escobedo, Jesus (M/61) Arrest on chrg of Communicate Threats, M (M), at 939 W Bank St, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/7/2021 11:06.

♦ CORTES, FORTINO VASQUEZ was arrested on a charge of IMPAIRED DRIVING DWI at 1500 PETERS CREEK PW on 7/9/2021

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OPINION | DAVID HARSANYI

WEEKLY CRIME LOG ♦ Becoat, Donald Ray (M/58) Arrest on chrg of 1) Fail To Appear/compl (M) and 2) Probation Violation (M), at 1399 N Jackson Av/e Fourteenth St, Winstonsalem, NC, on 7/7/2021 19:11.

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TUESDAY

♦ Grant, Alford King (M/30) Arrest on chrg of 1) Resisting Arrest (M), 2) Order For Arrest (M), 3) Fail To Appear/compl (M), 4) Ndl Suspended / Revoked (M), 5) Speeding To Elude Arrest (F), and 6) Reckless Driving (M), at 2941 Cole Ridge Cr, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/12/2021 10:55. ♦ HAYES, JOHN JERRY was arrested on a charge of COMMUNICATE THREATS at 2930 WESLEYAN LN on 7/10/2021 ♦ IRVIN, NANCY ELIZABETH was arrested on a charge of IMPAIRED DRIVING DWI at 1199 BURKE ST/W FIRST ST on 7/11/2021 ♦ Jones, Tyler Andrew (M/28) Arrest on chrg of 1) Breaking/larc-felony (F), 2) Drugs-misd Poss (M), 3) Drugs-poss Sched Ii (F), 4) Fail To Appear/compl (F), 5) Fail To Appear/compl (M), 6) Speeding To Elude Arrest (F), and 7) Reckless Driving (M), at 349 Dixie Broadway, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/11/2021 18:57. ♦ Key, Brandon Lee Craig (M/26) Arrest on chrg of 1) Larceny/misdemeanor (M), 2) Impaired Driving Dwi (M),

and 3) Open Beverage (M), at 8336 Tuscany Dr, Lewisville, NC, on 7/9/2021 21:58. ♦ LESESANE, CHARLES WILSON was arrested on a charge of COMMUNICATE THREATS at 2030 E TWENTY-THIRD ST on 7/11/2021 ♦ MCGILL, THOMAS JEFFERSON was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 590 MOCK ST on 7/10/2021 ♦ MOBLEY, JUSTIN LAMBERT was arrested on a charge of CCW at 1100 SALEM VALLEY RD on 7/10/2021 ♦ MOORE, HARRY JOE was arrested on a charge of INDECENT EXPOSURE at 200 N LIBERTY ST on 7/9/2021 ♦ Morgan, John Phillip (M/54) Arrest on chrg of 1) Carry Concealed Handgun (show Permit, Id, Address Officer) (M) and 2) Carry Concealed Handgun After Consuming Alcohol (area) (M), at 775 Tanglewood Park Rd, Clemmons, NC, on 7/10/2021 18:52. ♦ Patricio, Marco Antonio (M/27) Arrest on chrg of Impaired Driving Dwi (M), at 1065 Bethania-rural Hall Rd, Rural Hall, NC, on 7/11/2021 02:08. ♦ Perez, Arnaldo Figueroa (M/49) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assault On Female (M) and 2) Affray (M), at 1110 Ada Av, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/7/2021 17:57. ♦ Pinnix, Kimberly Ann (F/35) Arrest on chrg of Larcenyfelony (F), at 201 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/7/2021 08:00 ♦ PITTMAN, JASON CHARLES was arrested on a charge of REC/POSS STOLE MV at 3200 NEW GREENSBORO RD on 7/10/2021 ♦ Reagan, William Clyde (M/79) Arrest on chrg of Communicate Threats, M

(M), at 301 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 7/10/2021 18:30. ♦ ROBBINS, RAYMOND BROWN was arrested on a charge of ROBBERY at 1311 N PATTERSON AV on 7/11/2021 ♦ SCALES, ERIN JOSEPH was arrested on a charge of WEAP-POSS BY FELON at 2019 GREENWAY AV on 7/10/2021 ♦ SIMMONSHUNTER, SEGENNIA MARIE was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 199 S MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DR/NB 421 on 7/10/2021 ♦ SPEAS, ANTHONY DENARD was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 201 N CHURCH ST on 7/10/2021 ♦ SQUIRE, TRAVIS BARNARD was arrested on a charge of CCW at 540 LUNAR CT/ APOLLO DR on 7/10/2021 ♦ SQUIRE, TRAVIS BARNARD was arrested on a charge of CCW at 540 LUNAR CT/ APOLLO DR on 7/10/2021 ♦ SQUIRE, TRAVIS BARNARD was arrested on a charge of CCW at 540 LUNAR CT/ APOLLO DR on 7/10/2021 ♦ Sykes, Kate Janine (F/35) Arrest on chrg of 1) Assaultsimple (M) and 2) Resisting Arrest (M), at 2578 Old Glory Rd/neudorf Rd, Clemmons, NC, on 7/8/2021 16:48. ♦ TEPETL, BRAYA ESCALONA was arrested on a charge of AFFRAY at 4820 OLD WALKERTOWN RD on 7/12/2021 ♦ THOMPSON, DELANDER WITHERSPOON was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT-SIMPLE at 801 N MLK JR DR on 7/10/2021 ♦ WILSON, MARK DESHAWN was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 14TH ST AT UNIVERSITY PW on 7/10/2021

♦ William Clarence Buchanan, Jr., 86, of Winston Salem, died July 11, 2021. ♦ Lester Bullock, 78, of Hassell, died July 08, 2021. ♦ Judith K. Droll, 75, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Daisy Rebecca Griffith Fowler, 77, of Pfafftown, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Hazel Billings Freeman, 97, of Winston-Salem, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Leo Gatewood, 93, of Stokes County, died July 10, 2021. ♦ William Charles Kyle, 95, of Winston-Salem, died July 9, 2021. ♦ Charles Andrew Lamb, III, 48, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Shirley Jean (Shoaf) Lunsford, 72, of WinstonSalem, died July 7, 2021. ♦ Lucy Wooten McGuire, 88, of King, died July 9, 2021. ♦ Glenda Doty Myers, 83, of Forsyth County, died July 8, 2021. ♦ James “Jeff” J. Nolen, 52, of Walnut Cove, died July 10, 2021. ♦ Roy Bane “RB” Smith, Jr., 55, of Gastonia, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Tina Taylor, 65, died July 8, 2021. ♦ John Wilkins, 70, of Clemmons, died July 8, 2021. ♦ Martha Willeford, 81, of High Point, died July 7, 2021. ♦ Amber Nannette Slater Wilson, 38, of Advance, died July 7, 2021.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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