North State Journal Vol. 11, Issue 6

March sadness

center Patrick

Trump threatens Iran with widespread destruction if deal not struck

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday threatened widespread destruction of Iran’s energy resources and other vital infrastructure, potentially including desalination plants that supply drinking water, if a deal to end the war is not reached “shortly.” Trump’s new threat came in a social media post. Earlier comments to the Financial Times suggested American troops could seize Iran’s Kharg Island oil export hub. Trump has repeatedly claimed to be making diplomatic progress — though Tehran denies negotiating directly — while ramping up his threats and sending thousands more U.S. troops to the Middle East.

Gas prices eclipse

$4 per gallon in U.S. New York

U.S. gas prices jumped past an average of $4 a gallon for the rst time since 2022 on Tuesday as the Iran war pushes fuel prices to soar worldwide. According to motor club AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is now $4.02 — over a dollar more expensive than before the war began. The last time U.S. drivers were collectively paying this much at the pump was nearly four years ago, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The price is a national average, meaning drivers in some states have been paying well over $4 a gallon for a while.

America 250 NC holds March events; April features Greensboro stop the BRIEF this week

Page: ‘I ran for the right reasons’

The Rockingham County sheri says Senate Leader Phil Berger’s campaign “miscalculated”

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

Judge upholds NC photo voter ID law

The ruling was a win for Republicans

By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

RALEIGH — North Carolina’s photo voter identi cation law was upheld last Thursday, as a federal judge set aside arguments by civil rights groups that Republicans enacted the requirement with discriminatory intent against black and Latino voters.

The decision by U.S. District Judge Loretta Biggs is a huge legal victory for Republican

legislative leaders who passed the law in late 2018 — weeks after more than 55% of voters approved a constitutional amendment backing the idea.

“Finally. After seven years, we can put to rest any doubt that our state’s Voter I.D. law is constitutional,” Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) said in a press release. “This is a monumental win for the citizens of North Carolina and election integrity e orts.”

Biggs had presided in spring 2024 over a nonjury trial in a lawsuit led by the state

RALEIGH — Rockingham Sheri Sam Page is one step closer to heading to the state Senate after his primary opponent, longtime Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden), conceded following partial hand recounts failing to change the 23 votes by which he was trailing. In an interview with North State Journal, Page said he was looking forward to getting to work.

“I ran for the right reasons, and now I’m excited and looking forward to transitioning in January after the November election and helping the citizens of the district and also in North Carolina,” Page said.

Page, a native of Rockingham County, has spent more than 40 years in law enforcement, including 28 years as the county’s sheri . He also served as president of the North Carolina Sheri s’ Association (2010-11) and still sits on its executive committee.

Now, with a win in the general election, he’s set to join the General Assembly.

“This race was very contentious and it had a lot of negatives come through in it that I’ve never seen before,” said Page, adding that he knew it would be a “tough race” and acknowledging the millions spent against him during the contest.

“Their political instincts were as o as I’ve ever seen in politics in my life career.”

Patrick Sebastian, Page campaign strategist

“This celebration is part of the One Small Step Initiative.” Americans for Prosperity website on the Greensboro America 250 event

Americans for Prosperity are holding an interactive event in Greensboro on April 25

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Even without the General Assembly’s America 250 committee meeting in March, the state’s commemoration of the country’s 250th anniversary continued with a special focus by America 250 NC on Women’s History Month, highlighting the state’s revolutionary roots and

women who helped shape the nation.

America 250 NC also sponsored the First in Freedom Festival, drawing thousands of visitors despite rainy weather. It featured hands-on crafts about North Carolina’s Revolutionary history, Battle of Moores Creek Bridge trivia and exhibits about the state’s “First in Freedom” heritage. Across the state, new America 250 exhibits opened at Tryon Palace and Battleship North Carolina, as well as the 1775 Edenton Tea Party, and sites in Martin, Alamance,

the

Easter comes in the calendar only once in a year—but for the Christian, every day is an Easter. Each morning we should rise to newness of life. In midwinter we do not need to wait for the coming of springtime, to get the lessons of Eastertide. Christ arose once for all and the glory of his victory shines everywhere, and the power of his resurrection is felt wherever he is known and loved and followed.

Easter ought to leave in every Christian heart — new inspirations, a new uplift, new revealing of hope. It ought to be easier for us to live nobly and victoriously after we have enjoyed another Easter with its great lessons. A wave of comfort should roll over the world, as the day bears everywhere its news of resurrection. Death has been conquered. A grave is no longer a hopelessly sealed prison — its doors have been broken. This is the message which Easter carries to every home of sorrow, to every lonely, bereft heart.

But that is not the whole meaning of the Easter lesson. Perhaps we narrow it too much. We keep its comfort for the days when death is in our home, when we are standing beside the graves of our loved ones. It tells us that what to our blinded eyes seems death — is life; and that the grave is but a little chamber of peace where our dear godly one shall sleep until the morning.

But the lesson reaches out and covers all life. It sheds a glory over every sorrow. It whispers hope in every experience of loss. It tells of victory, not only over death—but over everything in which men seem to su er defeat, over all grief, pain, and trial. Jesus himself stated the great principle of the resurrection victory when he said, “Except a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies — it abides by itself alone; but if it dies — it bears much fruit.”

The dropping of the grain into the earth, to perish there, is not misfortune, not the wasting, the losing, the perishing, of the grain; it is but the way by which it reaches its full development and comes to its greatest fruitfulness.

The little parable had its rst

interpretation in the death of Christ himself. Dying would be no misfortune for him; it was but the way to the higher, larger life into which it would introduce him. Life is always double. There is an outer form in which it presents itself to our senses; and there is an inner spirit which is the vital quality. But this inner, spiritual, immortal element — can be found only through the dying of the outer and

$8.5M in small business recovery grants

The third-round funds span 13 projects in four counties

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein announced nearly $8.5 million in a third round of grants for 13 projects aimed at aiding small businesses recovering from Hurricane Helene and bolstering public infrastructure in western North Carolina.

The third round brings the program’s total investment in Helene recovery to nearly $30 million since November 2025.

“Small businesses can’t operate without reliable infrastructure,” Stein said in a March 20

press release. “These investments will help communities repair essential systems, reduce future risk, and ensure local entrepreneurs have the dependable services they need to serve customers and grow. I thank the General Assembly for its partnership in funding these investments.”

The funding will support 13 local projects through the state’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ), which was established by a $55 million appropriation from the North Carolina General Assembly.

SmBIZ o ers grants of up to $1 million to local governments for repairing and upgrading water and sewer lines, stormwater systems, utilities and down-

NAACP and local chapters that argued that the ID requirement violated the U.S. Constitution and the federal Voting Rights Act. At trial, the NAACP alleged Republican legislators passed the voter ID law to entrench their political power by discouraging people historically aligned with Democrats from voting.

But lawyers for Republican lawmakers helping defend the law with state attorneys argued that Republicans wouldn’t have passed one of the most permissive voter ID laws among states that have them if they wanted to entrench themselves in state politics. They argued that the law is race-neutral and contains many more categories of qualifying ID than were allowed under a previously approved 2013 voter ID law that was struck down years ago.

The lawyers also said the General Assembly had legitimate state interests in building voter con dence in elections and preventing voter fraud. Still, nationwide voter identity fraud is rare.

State NAACP President Deborah Dicks Maxwell called last Thursday’s decision “deeply disappointing and ignores the real

Sen. Phil Berger (R-Eden)

and documented barriers” that voter ID laws have on certain voters. No decision has been made on whether to appeal the ruling.

Even with the federal litigation, the 2018 voter ID law has been carried out since the 2023 municipal elections, after the state Supreme Court upheld the law in a separate lawsuit. Those elections have included the March 3 primary — nearly all of its results were certi ed last Wednesday.

In her 134-page decision and order, Biggs, who was nominated to the court by President Barack Obama, said evidence in the trial record did suggest the burden to obtain IDs fell more on black and Hispanic voters. As a result, a disparate number of racial minority voters would be among thousands who will not possess the required ID on Election Day and, ultimately, “for

town streetscapes that directly serve small business districts and economic corridors. More details on SmBIZ can be found at commerce.nc.gov/SmBIZ

A breakdown of the awards by project can be seen at tinyurl. com/NSJ-WNC-3rd.

The awards, consolidated by county, are as follows:

• Ashe County: $2,307,659

• Caldwell County: $500,000

• Jackson County: $1,431,635

• Mitchell County: $4,240,000

Local governments in eligible counties can still apply for re

maining funds while they last.

The almost $8.5 million in grants follows Stein’s February announcement of $5.7 million for ood resiliency projects.

temporary form. The golden grain must be buried in service or sacri ce of love — that from its grave may rise that which is unseen and eternal!

J. R. Miller was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain.

many their vote will not count when the election is certi ed.”

Biggs said the state’s history of race-based discrimination and voter suppression favors a nding that the law was enacted with discriminatory intent. But she wrote that previous rulings — including one from an federal appeals court panel earlier in the case — requires “this Court to assign less weight to the historical background” and “almost impenetrable deference to the presumption” that lawmakers approved the law in good faith.

Biggs had previously issued in 2019 a preliminary injunction blocking enforcement of the 2018 law, saying it was tainted because the 2013 voter ID law was struck down on similar grounds of racial bias.

But the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed her decision, writing that she had put too much emphasis on the past conduct of the General Assembly when evaluating the 2018 law.

So based on the “preliminary injunction record, the limited evidence presented at trial, and

the arguments of counsel,” the court “concludes that it is compelled by controlling case law” to side with legislative leaders and the state elections board, Biggs wrote last Thursday. North Carolina law o ers free ID cards for voting at county election o ces statewide and at the Division of Motor Vehicles. People lacking photo ID for the polls should have their votes count if they ll out an exception form or bring in their ID to election o cials before the nal tallies.

In the separate state court lawsuit, the 2018 law was struck down initially in a 4-3 decision, with Associate Justice Anita Earls, a Democrat seeking reelection this year, authoring the majority opinion. But when the state Supreme Court ipped from a Democratic to a Republican majority, the justices agreed to revisit the matter and proceeded to uphold the law.

Thirty-six states have laws requesting or requiring identication at the polls, 23 of which seek photo ID, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

North State Journal’s A.P. Dillon contributed to this report.

Education Department shifts loans to Treasury, relocates o ces

The agency says fewer than 40% of the 42.3 million student loan borrowers are currently repaying their loans

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — In continued downsizing moves, the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced a major new partnership related to the management of the nation’s $1.7 trillion federal student loan portfolio.

Under the Federal Student Assistance Partnership, Treasury will manage collections on defaulted loans and help get borrowers back into repayment. Future phases could expand Treasury’s role to nondefaulted loans and other federal student aid functions, according to the Department of Education’s press release.

“This partnership marks an intentional and historic step toward breaking up the Federal education bureaucracy and dramatically improving the administration of Federal student aid programs that millions of American students, families, and borrowers rely on to ac-

Dare, Buncombe and other counties.

Traveling exhibits — including “When Are We Us?” “Making Our Voices Heard,” “People of Colonial North Carolina” and “March to Kings Mountain” — rotated through museums, libraries and historic sites from Moore County to the mountains.

Other highlighted events include a statewide cleanup, a book club and “Flat Cornelius.”

North Carolina the Beautiful, a new statewide cleanup campaign, was launched in partnership with the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Green Team and North Carolina Aquariums. Counties and groups are invited to host events all year to protect the places that will be celebrated for the next 250 years.

A free virtual book club event examining Charles Frazier’s “Cold Mountain” is open to all ages and set for April 29 at 6 p.m.

Flat Cornelius, the at cutout like the popular children’s series Flat Stanley, appeared at multi-

PAGE from page A1

When asked if the push by Berger for a casino in Rockingham County factored into how tight the race ended up being, Page said he thought the topic “sparked a lot of the controversy,” and “how that went down” turned people o from Berger.

In November, Page will face Democrat Steve Luking. However, the Senate District 26 seat is rated at +9 Republican by the John Locke Foundation’s Partisan Index. Page says he anticipates getting past Luking and looks forward to being seated in the Senate next January.

One of the items he has his eye on in is raising teacher pay.

“I do think our teachers — if we’re going to maintain, hire and retain a quality workforce

— we’ve got to pay our teachers well,” Page said. He also said that he’d like to get master’s degree pay bumps restored.

Page said it was important to work on funding K-12, colleges and workforce prep programs to support the workforce.

“That’s how we’re going to keep persons and kids and the future workers in our communities,” said Page. “I want kids, if they go to college or do training in community college, I want them to stay here in our county.”

Page said a “very big concern” at the state level on his mind is budgets, and he’d like to see the General Assembly set budgets like counties do and

cess higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.

“As the Federal student aid portfolio soars to nearly $1.7 trillion and with nearly a quarter of student loan borrowers in default, Americans know that the Department of Education has failed to e ectively manage and deliver these critical programs,” McMahon said. “By leveraging Treasury’s world-renowned expertise in nance and econom-

ic policy, we are con dent that American students, borrowers, and taxpayers will nally have functioning programs after decades of mismanagement.”

The move comes as fewer than 40% of the 42.3 million borrowers are currently repaying their loans and nearly 25% are in default, according to McMahon’s release. The move aligns with President Donald Trump’s March 2025 executive order directing the eventu-

$1.7T

Total of federal student loans

al dissolution of the Education Department.

“Under President Trump’s leadership we are undertaking the rst serious e ort to clean up a $1.7 trillion portfolio that has been badly mismanaged for years,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

“Treasury has the unique experience, the operational capability, and the nancial expertise to bring long overdue nancial discipline to the program and be better stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

Both agencies say they will keep students, parents, schools and vendors updated as the changes roll out.

The agreement is the latest in a series of interagency partnerships the Education Department has used to shrink its footprint. As previously reported, the department has already shifted foreign gift-tracking duties to the State Department.

Other previously announced partnerships have moved fam-

re their

ple events in March, including a Homeschool Day in Kinston, ShowFest in Charlotte, Brunswick Town’s Stamp Act event and the Moores Creek Bridge commemoration.

“have that budget set by July 1.”

On the recent priority of property taxes being taken up by both chambers of the legislature, including Berger’s moratorium proposal, Page said that would have been nice before counties conducted their revaluations. “What I like to see is that conversation where when the revals are done and the rates go up, that they look at (staying) revenue neutral,” said Page. “And then from there, anything that’s done that would cause any tax increases to the citizens needs

Americans for Prosperity (AFP), The LIBRE Initiative and Concerned Veterans for America will be hosting a large America 250-themed event in Greensboro on April 25 from 3-6 p.m.

at the Greensboro Complex. “This celebration is part of the One Small Step Initiative, a movement empowering everyday Americans to take meaningful steps that advance free-

to be a full review by the local commissioner board in those counties.

“The last thing I want to see or hear is that people are being taxed out of their property.”

One platform item of Page’s that he says he will carry through on is repealing a portion of a 2023 law that made lawmakers custodians of their own records, giving them the ability to decide what documents were public records.

“There’s an old saying, you know: ‘When you do things in the dark, they will come to light,” Page said. “That’s exactly what happened with the casino conversation … the way it went about. And I think that upset a lot of people.

“I think that our elected o cials can do a lot better than going dark on public record information.”

North State Journal also asked Page about a New York Times article published the afternoon Berger conceded the race.

The article described retiring U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) as saying Berger “has to go” and had become “too power hungry.” The article also highlighted a grudge between Berger’s former Chief of Sta Jim Blaine and Patrick Sebastian — Page’s recount spokesman, political strategist and pollster — over remarks that disparaged former Gov. Pat McCrory. Sebastian is McCrory’s nephew.

ily support and school safety programs to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), most K-12 and postsecondary grant administration to the Department of Labor, Indian education programs to the Department of the Interior, medical school accreditation reviews to HHS and international education grants to the State Department.

The U.S. Department of Education also announced it will be vacating its current o ce location in the Lyndon B. Johnson headquarters building and will relocate to 500 D Street SW.

The department said the move, set for August, will save taxpayers “approximately $4.8 million annually in operating costs and eliminating wasted space in a building that is roughly 70% vacant.”

“One year ago, President Trump signed one of the most consequential executive orders of his presidency — to break up the federal education bureaucracy and return education to the states,” said McMahon. “Thanks to the hard work of so many, we have made unprecedented progress in reducing the federal education footprint, and now we are pleased to give this building to an agency that will bene t far more from its space than the Department of Education.

“This is an important step in our e orts to forge brighter futures for our nation’s students, honor the taxpayers who invest in their promise, and support the civil servants who keep this vital work moving forward.”

dom and opportunity in their own communities,” the AFP event website reads.

The website also says attendees will experience “powerful conversations” with national and state leaders re ecting on America’s founding ideals and the work ahead to strengthen them.

There will be interactive opportunities to take “One Small Step” through civic commitments and hands-on engagement, which includes a “dynamic” atmosphere blending storytelling, inspiration and grassroots energy, and meaningful connections with hundreds of fellow advocates committed to making their communities and country stronger.

Con rmed speakers so far include Sen. Ted Budd, Congressman Pat Harrigan and State Auditor Dave Boliek.

Advance registration for the Greensboro is required at tinyurl.com/nsj-AFP, and the full calendar, traveling exhibit schedule and information on how to get involved in statewide America 250 events can be found at america250.nc.gov.

Before responding, Page asked Sebastian if he’d like to comment.

“The newspaper article mostly speaks for itself — it was time to make a change,” Sebastian said. “And we had a lot of people who were very frustrated with Sen. Berger’s leadership, tired of the way he was doing business, tired of the way he was running the Senate.”

Sebastian said when Page decided to run, it was a “game on.”

He added people would be surprised how many people behind the scenes, from lawmakers to donors, had said they “were really sick of Phil Berger’s leadership,” but “when it came time to associate their name with an opposition push, so many of them were not willing to take that step.”

“And that’s why I have so much respect for Sheri Page — he put himself out there,” said Sebastian. “He had to withstand $10-12 million dollars of false and malicious advertising but was still able to get up and go every day. Most people can’t imagine enduring a constant, omnipresent character assassination without it totally consuming their lives.” Page agreed, stating that in all the races he’s been in, “I’ve never seen such a contentious race as this.”

He also said Blaine and political strategist Larry Shaheen had “miscalculated,” after which Sebastian said the issue needed to be brought up.

“Look, Jim Blaine said Page was a dupe being pushed out into the road and he was going to get hit by a car,” Sebastian said in a slightly raised tone. “He said that the sheri may have to move out of the county when they were done with them. You had Larry Shaheen saying by the time they’re done, there should not be a Republican in that district who would consider voting for Sheri Sam Page. They could not have been more wrong — their political instincts were as o as I’ve ever seen in politics in my life career.

“And to have that over-the-top bravado, to have that type of arrogance, to have that overcondence that you’re these masters of the universe with the ability to convince voters to believe anything, as if they’re dopes ... to be that wrong is really something and should feel humiliating. And that’s why I’m so proud of Sheri Page. He focused on the people and proved the ‘oursiders’ wrong.”

Sebastian ended by saying Page didn’t run for special interest groups who can fund campaigns, he ran for the people in his district.

The 69-year-old Page responded, “Patrick, you said it all. I just never heard so much negatism.” While noting he had never met Blaine or Shaheen, Page said, “They miscalculated. I’ll say it: They totally miscalculated.”

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho

end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Can the mythmaking part of college athletics survive free market capitalism?

Outlined against a blue-gray October sky the Four Horsemen rode again.

THINGS ARE CHANGING so fast on the college athletic scene that an average fan needs a scorecard to keep up with the ever-changing names on their team’s roster, as well as the name of their coach.

One of the casualties of such dramatic change may be the ability of college sports to serve as an important mythmaker and creator of legends for American values, especially for young athletes and fans who want to learn from the great heroes of the game and try to emulate them.

In its purest and noblest form, collegiate athletics was considered a valuable venue to build and strengthen the physical body while the classroom and professors nurtured and developed the mind of an amateur athlete. The goal was to produce a student athlete graduate as a complete person who could face the challenges of adult life. Scholarships o ered the poorest athlete the chance to, in essence, earn their education while performing on the eld or court.

Responsible citizens were developed who would help lead their community, state and country in far more important things than a basketball or football game later in life.

Former Princeton basketball star, Rhodes Scholar and U.S. senator from New Jersey Bill Bradley is considered one of the prime examples of what collegiate athletics can and should be able to accomplish.

The college game today more closely resembles the farm teams of Major League

Baseball franchises. Players come and go to minor league teams such as the Durham Bulls on their way, hopefully, to the big leagues.

Long gone are the days when brilliant sportswriters such as Grantland Rice would immortalize the back eld of Notre Dame after they upset heavily favored Army in 1924: “Outlined against a blue-gray October sky the Four Horsemen rode again. In dramatic lore they are known as famine, pestilence, destruction and death. These are only aliases. Their real names are: Stuhldreher, Miller, Crowley and Layden.”

The Four Horsemen of Notre Dame are still remembered because of this brilliant writing. But they were great because they stayed together in college and won a lot of games to back up Rice’s brilliant writing.

NC State’s “Cardiac Pack” run to the 1983 basketball championship would have been derailed had any of their starters been lured to another team before their miracle run. The Cardiac Pack still inspires North Carolinians today to keep ghting through adversity and tough situations.

These are lessons young people see, hear, feel and can incorporate into their young lives. It is unfair to expect every team to be a role model for our children, but one of the great attributes of high-level amateur athletics at the collegiate level has been the ability to admire such great athletes over several years who balance the rigors of their

sport with the demands of the classroom with honor, dignity, responsibility and respect. What would Rice say about a college team today whose stars are driving to class in Lamborghinis? “The latest group of hired mercenaries won another title for Wassomatta U. They defeated the latest group of hired mercenaries at Potsylvania U.” It will be only a very rare occasion when a paid, and therefore “professional,” collegiate team will be immortalized as we have seen in the past. It is hard to begrudge the fact that when o ered millions of dollars to transfer, most players and coaches now do so at the drop of a hat. America is a free enterprise, capitalist society and hopefully will always remain so. But it is important to recognize what is being sacri ced in the process. Mythmaking of American ideals and virtues is one of the casualties we will sadly recognize not too much further down the road.

Absent the mythmaking potential of college sports, it may become just another professional vocation to enjoy purely as entertainment, not unlike watching a touring ballet, orchestra or Broadway musical.

Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with coining the phrase “change is the only constant in life.” If that is the case, and it certainly appears to be true, then we need to gure out how we can nd other ways to transmit the treasured American values of hard work, teamwork and sacri ce to fans who used to nd it in amateur sports.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

When the power of incumbency becomes an albatross

Berger was instrumental in many GOP legislative victories on issues like lower taxes, redistricting, crime, the Second Amendment and ICE cooperation.

The power of incumbency is not talked about a lot in politics, primarily because it’s something that is understood without needing to discuss it. Odds are, if you are the incumbent and you’re running for reelection, you’re in a much better position to win your primary (if there even is one) and general election battles than you are if you are the challenger.

Or so we thought.

Over the last 10 years or so, the power of incumbency has taken some notable hits, with two that come to mind for me coming out of New York City.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, for instance, stunned political observers in June 2018 when she defeated House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley, a 20-year veteran of Congress who had been oated as the next House leader, in New York’s 14th District Democratic primary. The New York Times called it “the most signi cant loss for a Democratic incumbent in more than a decade, and one that will reverberate across the party and the country.”

In 2022, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Sean Patrick Maloney lost his reelection bid to Congress in the general election to Republican State Assemblyman Mike Lawler. With that loss, Maloney, who had served for 10 years, became “the rst chair of either party’s House campaign committee to lose a race for reelection since the

early 1990s,” the Times also reported.

The March 3 primary here in North Carolina was not a good night either for incumbents in the General Assembly, with nine — three Democrats and six Republicans — losing their reelection bids well before the general election. Seven were on the House side, and two were on the Senate side.

The most notable and talked about, of course, was longtime Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden), who lost to longtime Rockingham County Sheri Sam Page. But it took about three weeks to con rm it.

Primary night closed with Berger trailing Page by a mere two votes. By the March 13 canvass deadline, Page’s lead had increased to 23 votes after provisionals were reviewed, overseas and military ballots were counted, and absentee ballots that needed them were cured.

After a machine recount and random sample hand-to-eye recounts were done, the results remained unchanged. Berger opted against a legal battle and conceded last Tuesday.

As to how Page was able to pull o the win, opinions vary, though I believe part of the reason was that MAGA voters in Senate District 26 had two Donald Trump-backed candidates to choose from, with Berger receiving an o cial endorsement from the president and Page receiving an uno cial one from Trump, who also praised Page when he

was urging primary voters to back Berger. There was also the budget stalemate between Berger and GOP N.C. House leaders, along with a controversial Berger-backed casino proposal in 2023. Page supporters I’ve talked to in the district tell me it was the attempted casino deal, the perception that Berger increasingly had more of an eye on Washington, D.C., than North Carolina, and the general feeling that he had been in power for too long and was “out of touch” that were big factors in his shocking defeat.

Whether those perceptions are reality depends on whom you talk to. But one thing is certain: Berger was instrumental in many GOP legislative victories on issues like lower taxes, redistricting (as recently as late 2025), crime, the Second Amendment, ICE cooperation, anti-DEI in public schools, increased oversight of higher education, pro -life causes and photo/voter ID.

But while his political legacy will be studied, analyzed, talked about and likely emulated in future elections, it looks like the power of incumbency became an albatross around Berger’s neck that he couldn’t shake despite his many notable accomplishments.

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

Learning workers will replace knowledge workers

CLASSICAL EDUCATION from time immemorial worked with brain development so that education was paced to the student’s brain development. Classical education teaches a student how to learn and how to think, whereas progressive education teaches a student what to learn and what to think.

So how is modern progressive education doing?

According to the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States is doing poorly. Dig into their website and you will nd the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). We spend more per capita on education than any other nation in the world — except Luxembourg — but we get less.

There are many factors at play, but the widely held consensus is that our school graduates are experiencing diminishing returns from their education at a time when the interconnectedness of the world renders them less able to compete for merit-based jobs that require the skill of critical thinking.

The single most important factor is curriculum. America started leaving classical education behind 80-plus years ago and replaced it with progressive education. It was thought that this shift more readily t an industrial age. But does your child t into an industrial model? And isn’t that ignoring the way our American workplace has changed more recently? Concurrent with the industrial model is the growth of bureaucracy. It happens in all industries (education is not immune). Our outcomes have been diminishing ever since.

Classical educators say the best education for one is the best education for all. Unless all students have access to an excellent education, we all are pulled down to a lowest common level. Such is not productive for the future of a democratic republic. A democratic republic requires an educated people, or we will fall to our demise. If public schools practiced classical education with delity, the number of private schools would shrink overnight.

Twenty-plus years ago, I asked an economist and futurist what he thought of education, to which he replied it belongs to the learning worker. He was saying that knowledge workers (you and me) will be replaced in the very near future by learning workers. Learning workers can manage the constant change of the workplace because they know how to learn. So where do we get learning workers? They are educated

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

in a classical program because such a program teaches a student how to learn, not what to learn, and how to think, not what to think. Bingo!

Classical education works with brain development so that learning is age-appropriate, sequential and interconnected. When students are in their early years (age 4 or 5 through 10 or 11) they readily focus on the grammar of any subject because they are concrete learners. Concrete learning is the rst stage of brain development. Knowing the grammar of any subject is the necessary foundation for the next stages of learning. Remember when we had grammar schools?

When a student moves from their grammar school years into middle school years (age 12 or so) and students’ brains move from concrete learning into conceptual learning and challenging everything becomes normative for the student, accordingly education should then lean into the dialectic process, or what is called logic. When your child wants to argue with you, we should require them to o er a reasonable argument, not just a lot of feelings. Feelings are important, but this is the age when their brain is moving into a new mode of learning and then reason, or logic (the dialectic process), needs to be honored so that the student learns how to think. This is developing mental habits that serve the student well throughout life.

In high school years when the average student is consumed with “self-expression,” that is when education should lean into the arts of rhetoric (which are understood as verbal expression, physical art, athletics, music, advanced manufacturing and other modes of expression).

In such a classical approach, the art of teaching through the K-12 years realizes that learning is cumulative, sequential and interrelated.

Classical education is focused on developing the skill of critical thinking alongside the formation of virtue that de nes each student’s soul in a manner that is unique to them and o ers the outcome that shows a student how to learn and how to think. To those students belongs the future!

So education has recently been problematic, and education could be the solution.

More schools are emerging that are classical. Check them out please.

The Rev. Marty McCarthy lives in Charlotte.

Trump’s Iran deal must be nothing like Obama’s

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP recently announced that he’s postponing strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for ve days to negotiate a cease re. “I think it could very well end up being a very good deal for everybody,” he told journalists.

It’s unclear who exactly the White House is bargaining with or whether those o cials will have the power to implement an agreement. We do, however, know what a “good deal” looks like, which is, more or less, everything former President Barack Obama’s Iran deal wasn’t.

A popular talking point among left-wing punditry maintains that Trump is seeking an o -ramp for his allegedly unpopular and failed war that looks exactly like the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the deal Obama struck with the mullahs years ago, which the current president ripped up in 2018.

That’s clearly untrue.

The Obama deal’s restrictions, as feeble as they were, would already have sunset. Under the JCPOA, Iran was not only allowed to continue uranium enrichment, but it also wasn’t compelled to decommission any of its reactors.

Nor did the Obama deal put any limits on the Iranian ballistic missile program, not even on intercontinental ballistic missiles that could carry nuclear warheads.

And, incidentally, though the regime has claimed it had no plans to develop such weaponry, the other day, it red a missile at the joint U.K.-U.S. Diego Garcia military base 2,500 miles away in the Indian Ocean.

Of course, there was no genuine way to verify that any of the JCPOA’s stipulations were being met by the clerics since the agreement didn’t contain anytime-anywhere inspections.

The Obama deal was worse than nothing, however, because it gave the regime protection from Israeli strikes.

The clerics could act with impunity, bene tting from sanctions relief — not to mention more ransom payments from Democratic presidents — all the while funding their destabilizing proxy armies, building a ballistic shield, and shrinking the breakout time for large-scale enrichment and nuke weaponization to months or weeks.

A decade ago, Trump called the JCPOA the “worst deal ever negotiated.” But I suppose it all depends on how you view the Middle East. If the goal of the JCPOA was to stop the clerics from nuclearizing and emerging as an even bigger threat to regional and world peace, then, indeed, the deal was disastrous.

Then again, if the deal was, as many rightly suspect, the Obama administration’s way of lifting the mullahs as a counterforce to Israel and Saudi Arabia, then it made complete sense.

Democrats and the isolationist right naysayers have been wrong about everything having to do with Iran

thus far. So they’ve moved on from predicting World War III and endless quagmires to lamenting the lack of a clear-cut “strategy” to ending the con ict. But Trump’s reported prewar demands of Iran remain the right ones. And they are nothing like Obama’s Iran deal.

The president should insist that the regime once and for all dismantle its nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow, and hand over its existing stockpiles of enriched uranium, which the Iranians reportedly admitted to Trump envoy Steve Witko could make 11 bombs.

Iran is already a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, pledging never to acquire nuclear weapons. So there’s no need for any sunsetting of the agreement.

Trump should also insist the clerics suspend their ballistic program and cease funding and assisting terrorist organizations.

Since the mullahs have used negotiations to string along past administrations and extract concessions, sanctions relief should be contingent on Iran upholding its end of the agreement.

Despite the demoralizing e orts of the media, the U.S. and the Iranian regime aren’t negotiating on equal footing.

It bears repeating that, thus far, the Iran war is perhaps the most devastating and e ective military campaign in modern history.

At worst, the U.S. and Israel have decapitated decades of institutional knowledge and experience of the Islamic regime.

The Iranian ballistic program has been vastly degraded, as has Iran’s ability to wage e ective conventional war or to prop up its proxy militias.

Iran’s only real leverage right now is to undermine the world’s economy by closing the Strait of Hormuz, which only reinforces the argument that it should not be in possession of ballistic missile programs, Chinese supersonic weapons and nuclear weapons.

If the remaining regime o cials don’t agree to stop, Trump can keep pounding their military and government infrastructure until it reaches a tier of leadership that will talk.

Or better yet, collapse.

With a high-impact, low-casualty war, Trump has devastated our enemy’s military and brought back credible deterrence.

War is no panacea, of course. Unlike anything in the JCPOA, however, those would be big, tangible wins.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

MICHAEL BARONE

Where is the arc of justice headed?

Former President Barack Obama liked to quote the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s line that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Of course, what was an expression of optimism for the moral reformer King was more in the nature of a victory spike of the football for a competitor in a zero-sum electoral contest like Obama.

More importantly, the belief that things are moving toward justice comes more naturally to believers in American exceptionalism, of which Obama isn’t one. He famously said that he believed in America’s exceptionalism only as much as “Brits” believe in British exceptionalism or Greeks believe in Greek exceptionalism.

But British and Greek exceptionalisms look to distant pasts and encompass the idea of decline, which, if not the opposite of justice, is certainly not positive. Britons may look with pride on the British Empire, but not without a twinge of regret that it has all but disappeared. Greeks may look back on the astonishing creativity of Athens 2,500 years ago, but not without recognizing that it was held down under the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires for almost all the centuries since.

In contrast, the United States has a history that can be easily, if perhaps oversimply, interpreted as a story of continual winning. Economic growth — the exception rather than the rule before 1800 in European lands — has been cumulative over time. Cultural progress abounds: the abolition of slavery, equality for women and civil rights for black people all have advanced, though with some setbacks over the years. In such an environment, it may seem natural to believe that, as a general rule anyway, things get better. Yet the long run of history teaches di erent lessons. Historians of ancient cultures and their archaeological colleagues can describe marked declines of civilization enough for one of them to title a book “1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed.”

Edward Gibbon, listening to the monks chanting vespers on the steps of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, was inspired to write the history of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire, the rst volume of which came out in February 1776 and is still in print today.

Historians continue to dispute just how much and even whether the Roman Empire declined. But it seems indisputable that its military forces dwindled, its long-distance trade petered out, and its technological advances were forgotten. It took centuries for Europeans to gure out how to build a dome like that of the Pantheon in Rome, but there it is today.

In American politics over the last century, it has been the Democrats whose rhetoric proclaims them as the party of progress. Some of this has a Marxist base, the New Deal idea that a complex industrialized society should have an increasingly large government to protect and guide individuals.

To many since at least the 1980s, that argument seems antique. Big government has not managed to build a single mile of track for California’s high-speed rail line in 19 years, while the private sector has developed arti cial intelligence at astonishing rates. Note also that in this century, Americans — including recent immigrants — have been moving out of big-government states like New York, Illinois and California, and into small-government states like Florida, Tennessee and Texas.

Republicans under Ronald Reagan and the two Bushes made the argument and provided some proof that market-friendly policies can produce more than big government. But President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” mantra suggests moving back to some unspeci ed moment in the past.

Perhaps to the low-immigration, high-familyformation, high-churchgoing 1950s in which Trump and his baby boom predecessors, former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, grew up. In any case, Trump’s inevitable retirement leaves Republicans uncertain and probably divided on what progress and decline mean.

For articulate Democrats, the focus has moved from economics — on which they make vague promises of more redistribution to the less a uent — and toward cultural issues. But on that, their con dence that the arc of justice moves their way has encountered some turbulence. They have seen American opinion do so on some issues, notably same-sex marriage, but not on abortion or immigration.

Or, as the liberal economist Noah Smith argues, in their isolated communities — trendy central city neighborhoods, a uent suburbs and university towns — and sycophantic media, they have failed to notice that most Americans don’t believe, or aren’t moving closer to believing, that “racial preferences in hiring, leniency toward petty crime and illegal immigration, and trans women on women’s sports teams are basic rights.”

My sense is that the arc of history moves around, and sometimes in a malign direction. Notably, among the sharply increasing antisemitism of the university left (now installed in New York’s Gracie Mansion) and in the emergence of a less numerous but equally disturbing antisemitism on the fringes of the podcast right from Southwest outposts to the woods of Maine. There are some directions in which the arc of history should never head again. Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Murphy to Manteo

sunrise services

Controversial I-26 revisions approved; construction resumes

Buncombe County

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has o cially received federal approval to proceed with the updated plans for the northern section of the Interstate 26 Connector.

However, the recent design revisions

— speci cally the shift to an eight-lane yover — have not been supported by local o cials. Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer and the Buncombe County commissioners issued a rare joint call for the NCDOT to reconsider in 2025, stating the yover creates a “physical and psychological barrier” between West Asheville and downtown.

WNC TIMES

Local sheri remains suspended as trial continues Graham County The hearing to remove suspended Graham County Sheri Brad Hoxit, who is accused of misusing his power in o ce for personal gain, continued into its fourth day with Hoxit taking the stand. Court reports say the judge will be taking the closing arguments under advisement while taking the next couple of weeks to rule. Until the judge has ruled, Hoxit cannot set foot in the Graham County Sheri ’s O ce and remains suspended.

Ashe County Two parents have been arrested after a rearm was discovered inside a student’s backpack at Westwood Elementary School, according to the Ashe County Sheri ’s O ce. Sheri Phil Howell said the incident happened last week, when a student unknowingly brought the weapon onto campus. School o cials and the school resource o cer responded once the rearm was found.

Ashe County Schools and sheri ’s investigators determined the young child had no idea the rearm was in the backpack and had no intent to harm anyone. O cials said the student will not face any charges. Authorities instead arrested the child’s parents — Stephanie Zandiotos, 44, and Michael Zandiotos, 43, both of West Je erson. Both were charged with felony possession of a weapon on educational property, with one count of misdemeanor carrying a concealed weapon. They were released from the Ashe County Detention Center after posting their respective $5,000 unsecured bonds.

NSJ

Controlled burn destroys private property Stokes County A prescribed burn in Stokes County spread beyond its intended area, destroying two buildings on private property and raising concerns about re safety as dry conditions persist across North Carolina. State o cials said the re began during a controlled burn last week when an ember traveled onto nearby property, igniting a tobacco packhouse. Days later, lingering hot spots reignited, destroying an uninhabited home. O cials with the North Carolina Forest Service said the incident was rare but underscores the challenges of managing re during heightened risk conditions.

WGHP

Ga. murder suspect arrested after brief manhunt

AI-related manufacturer coming to Greensboro

Guilford County Lumentum Holdings Inc., which is tied to the fast-growing demand for arti cial intelligence technology, is planning a new manufacturing facility in Greensboro, according to city o cials. The site, acquired from Qorvo, sits on Piedmont Triad Parkway. The facility will produce advanced optical components used in arti cial intelligence data centers, and the company plans to preserve and create more than 400 jobs. While speci c numbers regarding the company’s investment weren’t shared, local o cials reported that the economic impact will be signi cant.

NSJ

Davidson County Authorities apprehended a Georgia murder suspect in Lexington last week, according to the Davidson County Sheri ’s O ce. The Davidson County Rescue Squad said its drone team assisted the Lexington Police Department and Davidson County Sheri ’s Highway Patrol in locating the suspect, described as involved in a “jump and run” incident. Deputies con rmed the suspect vehicle was wanted out of Georgia related to a homicide and announced that Roy “JoJo” Holloway has been taken into custody following an all-hands-on-deck e ort. Authorities were on the ground and had air support, according to deputies. Davidson County residents received a phone alert warning them to be on the lookout in the area of Hadley Drive. First-responding deputies, investigators, dispatchers and the Warrants Unit combined resources to locate and apprehend the suspect.

A statement also noted that partners across state lines and at the federal level also played a critical role in the operation.

WXII

O -duty o cer shot, killed by fellow o cer Cumberland County An o -duty law enforcement o cer is dead after being shot at a home Friday in Hope Mills, according to Cumberland County deputies. O cers responded to a shooting call just before 11 p.m., noting that a domestic disturbance had happened between two o -duty law enforcement o cers, resulting in one man with a gunshot wound who was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity was being withheld pending next of kin noti cation. O cials did not provide details on the status of the other person.

WNCN

Man arrested for assaulting girlfriend with mop Pitt County A Pitt County man was arrested after warrants allege he hit his girlfriend repeatedly with a mop. Diego Corea, 22, was arrested after o cers said he swung a mop at his girlfriend and hit her several times with it, allegedly in front of a minor. Corea was charged with assault with a deadly weapon, assault with a deadly weapon with a minor present, and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Bond was not authorized as citizenship status was not determined.

WITN

Body found in Trent River identi ed as 51-year-old man

Craven County Police are investigating after a body was found Sunday afternoon in the Trent River near a downtown marina. O cers responded around 1:20 p.m. after reports of a person in the water and said the individual had been pulled from the river before they arrived. Authorities later identi ed the man as 51-year-old Ryan D. Ford. The cause of death has not been determined. Investigators said there is no threat to the public as they continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

WCTI

NATION & WORLD

How Homeland Security deal unraveled

Republican leaders in Congress are divided on how to handle the issue

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — For several hours last Friday, in the stillness before dawn, the Senate appeared to have nally gured out how to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security before it faced the longest partial shutdown in U.S. history.

Senators handed House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) their deal and headed for the airports, seemingly con dent of success. Then it collapsed in spectacular fashion.

An incensed Johnson marched out of his o ce Friday afternoon. He angrily rebuked the plan that the Senate had unanimously agreed to as a “joke.”

“I have to protect the House, and I have to protect the American people,” Johnson told reporters.

It was a dramatic denunciation of a deal that his counterpart, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) had negotiated after weeks of e ort and was the latest abrupt turn in a funding saga that has bedeviled top Republicans for much of the year.

The collapse of the deal leaves Congress, now on a two -week spring break, with no easy way out of the impasse that has put DHS into a shutdown since mid-February. It also has exposed a rare rupture between the two Republican leaders in Congress, testing their alliances as they labor to move another set of President Donald Trump’s priorities into law before the November elections.

“(The Senate’s proposal was) nothing more than unconditional surrender masquerading as a solution.”

Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.)

Nothing ahead is likely to be easy.

Thune had negotiated for weeks with Democratic senators on their demands for new restrictions on the department’s immigration enforcement work. O ers were traded several times. The talks moved along at a stop-start pace. Votes failed again and again.

But as Trump made it clear last Thursday that he would sign an executive action to pay Transportation Security Administration workers, Thune and Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York settled on a deal: It would not include funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and for U.S. Border Patrol, and would set aside Democratic demands for new limits on the agencies.

Thune pointed out that Congress had allotted money for immigration enforcement, and he told reporters that “we can get at least a lot of the government opened up again, and then we’ll go from there.”

Asked if he had cleared the compromise with Johnson, Thune said the two had texted.

“I don’t know what the House will do,” the senator said as the deal came together.

But as House Republicans woke up to the news, their outrage was swift.

Rep. Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.) said that on a GOP conference call that morning to discuss

MARIAM ZUHAIB / AP PHOTO

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.), center, speaks while House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), right, and House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) left, listen during a news conference on Capitol Hill last Friday.

their path forward, a few dozen members ranging from moderates to hard-line conservatives spoke in opposition to what the Senate had done.

“The Senate chickened out,” he said. “The cowards there, only a few of them in the middle of the night with, I think, only three to ve senators present on the oor, chickened out because they wanted to go home for two weeks. We need to raise the bar.”

The bitter split threatens to make the job for Republican leaders more di cult as they try to advance their priorities while they still have guaranteed control of both chambers. Trump has said that legislation to impose strict new proof of citizenship requirements on voting is his priority, but there is no real path for that plan in the Senate with its 60 -vote threshold for advancing legislation.

Some Republicans have

NYPD disrupts plot to rebomb Palestinian activist’s home

A New Jersey man was arrested for allegedly planning an attack on Nerdeen Kiswani

By Jake O enhartz and Michael R. Sisak The Associated Press

NEW YORK — A man accused of planning to rebomb the home of a prominent Palestinian activist has been arrested following a weekslong undercover operation led by the New York City Police Department, o cials said last Friday.

The target of the plot was Nerdeen Kiswani, who frequently leads protests in New York against Israel and the war in Gaza through the organization Within Our Lifetime. Kiswani, 31, said law enforcement o cials informed her late last Thursday that they had disrupted “a threat on my life that was about to take place.”

Federal authorities said they arrested Alexander Heier on Thursday at his home in Hoboken, New Jersey, as he was assembling Molotov cocktails that he planned to throw at Kiswani’s home. For weeks, he had discussed the plot with an undercover NYPD detective who had in ltrated a group chat used by Hei er, according to a police department spokesperson.

An o cial who was briefed on the investigation said Heier, 26, identi ed as a member of the JDL 613 Brotherhood, a New Jersey-based group founded in 2024 that describes its membership as “Jewish warriors” ghting back against rising antisemitism.

A website for the group says they are inspired by the original Jewish Defense League, a group

PAMELA HALL / CREATIVE COMMONS

The home of Palestinian activist Nerdeen Kiswani was the target of an alleged rebombing plot that was uncovered by the New York Police Department last week.

linked to numerous bombings and attempted assassinations of Arab American political activists in the 1970s and 1980s.

Hei er planned to ee to Israel following the attack, according to the o cial, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the details of an ongoing investigation.

An email inquiry sent to the JDL 613 was not returned.

Kiswani, who lives in Brooklyn with her infant son and husband, said the plot would not deter her continued activism.

“I feel very blessed that they were able to thwart this, but it’s something that is a constant possibility for people who speak up on behalf of Palestine,” she said.

“I feel very blessed that they were able to thwart this, but it’s something that is a constant possibility for people who speak up on behalf of Palestine.”

Nerdeen Kiswani

Hei er was charged in a criminal complaint with separate counts of making and possessing destructive devices, which each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A message left with his attorney was not returned. He made an

2 students dead, 7 injured in Tenn. school bus crash

Huntingdon, Tenn.

A school bus crash in west Tennessee last Friday killed two students and injured at least seven other people, o cials said. The crash involving a Tennessee Department of Transportation dump truck, a Chevrolet Trailblazer and the school bus took place at about noon on Highway 70 in Carroll County, the Tennessee Highway Patrol said. Authorities said there were a total of 25 students and ve adults on the bus, which was carrying students and employees from Kenwood Middle School in Clarksville for a eld trip to Jackson, Tennessee, the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System said in a statement.

pushed instead for a budget package that could potentially put some parts of the voter ID law in place. Republicans are also contemplating how to pass an expected request from the White House to fund the war with Iran that could total more than $200 billion, among other priorities. Meanwhile, the op of the funding deal has given Democrats another chance to pin the partial shutdown on House Republicans.

“They know this is a continuation of the shutdown because the Senate is gone,” said Massachusetts Rep. Katherine Clark, the No. 2 Democratic leader. “So they know fully well what they’re doing.”

To Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) the Senate’s proposal was “nothing more than unconditional surrender masquerading as a solution.” She said the House “will not bend itself into submission by acquiescing.”

initial appearance in New Jersey federal court last Friday.

“Let me be clear: We will not tolerate violent extremism in our city,” New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a statement. “No one should face violence for their political beliefs or their advocacy. I am relieved that Nerdeen is safe.”

According to a court ling written by an FBI agent, Heier spoke on a video call in February with a group that included an undercover detective about his interest in training for “self-defense” and wanting space where he could throw Molotov cocktails.

The next day, he met with the undercover detective in person and discussed his plan to use them against Kiswani and ee the country, according to the complaint. “We have (Kiswani’s) address,” Hei er allegedly told the undercover. “So it’s like that, that would be easier if you’d be more comfortable with that.”

Hei er and the undercover detective drove to Kiswani’s residence on March 4 to “conduct surveillance” and discussed making a dozen Molotov cocktails to throw at her home and two cars parked outside, the complaint said.

Last Thursday, the undercover detective met Hei er at his Hoboken residence, where Hei er had assembled components to make the Molotov cocktails, including a large bottle of Everclear, a highly ammable alcohol, the complaint said. Law enforcement o cers then executed a search warrant at the residence and recovered the eight Molotov cocktails, the complaint said.

Kiswani co-founded the group Within Our Lifetime, which frequently organizes protests against Israel that draw hundreds of participants and often end in arrests. The group’s calls to “abolish Zionism” and support for “all forms of struggle,” including violence, have drawn erce criticism. Kiswani denies that her criticism of Israel amounts to antisemitism.

Secret

Service agent accidentally shoots himself

Philadephia

A U.S. Secret Service agent assigned to protect former rst lady Jill Biden accidentally shot himself in the leg at Philadelphia International Airport last Friday, authorities said. Biden was not in the area when the agent was injured during a “negligent discharge” of his rearm, a Secret Service spokesman said. According to initial reports, the agent was traveling in an unmarked car when he accidentally discharged his gun shortly before 9 a.m. Other law enforcement o cers came to assist the injured agent, who was taken to a local hospital, where he was being treated for his injuries and was in stable condition.

French police thwart suspected bombing outside Paris Bank of America

Paris

French police have thwarted a suspected bomb attack outside a Bank of America building in Paris, authorities said Saturday. One suspect was detained and another escaped. The national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s o ce said it has opened an investigation into alleged terrorism-related o enses.

RTL radio, citing police sources, reported that the incident took place early Saturday when police o cers spotted two suspects carrying a shopping bag near the premises of the Bank of America — which is headquartered in Charlotte — in the French capital. One of the suspects was attempting to ignite a device, RTL said, while the second suspect managed to escape.

Arrest made after car struck pedestrians in England

London Police in the English city of Derby arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder after a car struck several pedestrians in the busy city center, sending seven people to hospitals. Counterterrorism o cers were assisting local police in the investigation. The incident occurred at about 9:30 p.m. Saturday on Friar Gate, a popular night spot in central Derby, a city of about 275,000 people northeast of Birmingham. A 36-year-old Derby man was arrested a short distance away and remains in police custody, Derbyshire Police said.

CUMBERLAND NOTICE

In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E000379-250

Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the estate of Charles W. Young, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of June, 2026, (which date is 90 days after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 12th day of March, 2026.

Jodie Bailey, Executor 3524 Kelburn Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28311

Of the Estate of Charles W. Young, Deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Thomas Michael Lecka a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka a/k/a T. Michael Lecka Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E000432-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Thomas Michael Lecka a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka a/k/a T. Michael Lecka, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Rob Williford McCauley, Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Michael Lecka

a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka a/k/a T. Michael Lecka, at

P.O. Box 53606, Fayetteville, NC 28305, or 235 Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301, on or before the 3rd day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Thomas Michael Lecka

a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka a/k/a T. Michael Lecka are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above.

This the 2nd day of April, 2026. Rob Williford McCauley, Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Michael Lecka a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka

a/k/a T. Michael Lecka

Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Thomas Michael Lecka a/k/a Thomas M. Lecka a/k/a T. Michael Lecka

Mailing address:

P. O. Box 53606

Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E000192-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox, Deceased, of Washington County, Pennsylvania, are noti ed to present their claims to one or both of the following: (1) Robert R. Cox, Ancillary Executor of the Estate of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox, 410 Ridge Avenue, Canonsburg, PA 15317, or (2) Rob Williford McCauley, Resident Process Agent for the Estate of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox, at P.O. Box 53606, Fayetteville, NC 28305, or 235 Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301, on or before the 3rd day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox are requested to make immediate payment to the Ancillary Executor or Resident Process Agent named above.

This the 2nd day of April, 2026.

Robert R. Cox, Ancillary Executor of the Estate of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox

Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Robin L. Cox a/k/a Robin Lynn Cox

Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606

Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street

Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E000421-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Sarah Harrison Hall Beasley, Executor of the Estate of Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall, at 406 Park Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before the 3rd day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 2nd day of April, 2026. Sarah Harrison Hall Beasley, Executor of the Estate of Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Mary Harrison Hall a/k/a Mary H. Hall

Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE

Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice Estate File # 26E000449-250 The undersigned,having quali ed as Administrator/Executor of the estate of Martha P.Branham,deceased,late of cumberland county,hereby noti es all persons, rms,and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the second day of July 2026, (which is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. The second day of April 2026 Administrator/Executor-Wanda B Graham Address-622 Hermosa Ct City/State,zip-Fayetteville,N.C.28314 of the Estate of Martha P.Branham NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 26E000438-250 In the Matter of the Estate of: HARLEY WYMAN FISHER Deceased. EXECUTOR’S NOTICE The undersigned, having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Harley Wyman Fisher, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before July 2, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 2nd day of April, 2026. Laurie Ann Dukic and Harley Wyman Fisher, Jr. Co-Executors of the Estate of Harley Wyman Fisher, Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A.

P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705 Publish: 04/02/2026, 04/09/2026, 04/16/2026 and 04/23/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF LILIANA DELORENZO CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000269-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Liliana DeLorenzo, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to the Executor, Patricia Ann Morris, 7502 Southgate Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28314 on or before the 13th day of June, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 4th day of March, 2026.

Patricia Ann Morris Executor of the Estate of Liliana DeLorenzo Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: March 12, March 19, March 26, and April 2, 2026

NOTICE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE #25E001163-250

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Jennifer Selby Doyle, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 1717 Blu side Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28312, on or before June 19, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 19th day March, 2026.

Matthew S. Doyle, Administrator of the Estate of Jennifer Selby Doyle 1717 Blu side Drive Fayetteville, NC, 28312 (910) 364-7860

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000448-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Carol L. Wild of the Estate of Eugenia W. Felder , deceased , late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 26th day of June, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 26th day of March, 2026. Carol L. Wilds Administrator/Executor 6616 Brookshire Street Address Fayetteville, North Carolina 28314 City, State, Zip Of the Estate of Eugenia W Felder , Deceased.

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR’S/EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Judy Whitaker Davis, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of July, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 25th day of March, 2026. Ti any Quinn Davis 3484 Wilmington Hwy. Fayetteville, NC 28306 Of the Estate of Judy Whitaker Davis, Deceased

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 25E001727-250 In the Matter of the Estate of: CHARLOTTE H. COLE Deceased. EXECUTOR’S NOTICE The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Charlotte H. Cole, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before June 12, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 3rd day of March, 2026. Johnny E. Cole, Executor of the Estate Charlotte H. Cole, Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A. P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705 Publish: 03/12/2026, 03/19/202, 03/26/2026 and 04/02/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000307-250 Having quali ed as Execu Tor of the Estate of Keith Vernell Gilliam, deceased, late Of Cumberland, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Keith Vernell Gilliam to pre- sent them to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of June, 2026 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 9th day of March, 2026 Porshia Cunningham 9000 Sheridan St, Suite 109 Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 Administrator of the Estate of Keith Vernell Gilliam Publication Weeks 3/12, 3/19, 3/26 and 4/2

NOTICE

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland In the

General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File 25E001740-250Of: Yvonne A Horne Administrators Notice The undersigned having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of Yvonne A Horne, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, rms an corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of July 2026 which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery .All persons indebted to said estate will please make payment to the undersigned Cherita Horne 2717 Preston Woods Ln #11 Fayetteville NC 28304 Administrator of the estate of Yvonne A Horne, deceased

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

In The General Court Of Justice

County of Cumberland

Superior Court Division

Estate File # 26E000475-250

Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Clarence Stewart Hough, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of July, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payments to the undersigned.

This the 2nd day of April, 2026.

Lori H. Murphy

Executor 1517 Marlborough Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Of the Estate of Clarence Stewart Hough, Deceased

NOTICE

In The General Court Of Justice

Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E000062-250

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNT

ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE

The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Joan H. Jackson deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of June, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 12 day of March, 2026.

Jennifer J. Arno

Administrator/Executor 10403 Colliers Chapel Church Road Linden, NC 28356 Of the Estate of Joan H. Jackson, Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF GENEVA MCNEIL CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 24E002935-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Geneva McNeil, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to the Public Administrator, Davis W. Puryear, 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311 on or before the 20th day of June, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 12th day of March, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Public Administrator of the Estate of Geneva McNeil Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: March 19, March 26, April 2, and April 9, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Leonore Sarchet, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before July 2, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment. This the 27th day of March, 2026. Janette Keaton 7582 Deerwood Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E000338-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Barbara McPherson, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before June 19, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 19th day of March, 2026. Michael McPherson, Executor of the Estate of Barbara McPherson NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR NOTICE

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland In the General Court Justice Superior Court Division Estate File 26E000262-250 in the Matter of the Estate of: FREDDIE ROCCO NAVARRA Administrator’s Notice

The undersigned having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of FREDDIE ROCCO NAVARRA, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of July2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 2nd day of April 2026. SALLY NAVARRA ZUFELT 316 CARTWRIGHT DRIVE FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303 Administrator of the estate of FREDDIE ROCCO NAVARRA. 23Mar26

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000186-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

The undersigned having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Rosina R. Newton aka Rosina Rauer Newton, Deceased late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before July 2, 2026 at 2614 Fashion Lane, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28304, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 2nd day of April, 2026 Christa W. Engle, Co-Executor and Willie R. Newton, Co-Executor of the Estate of Rosina R. Newton aka Rosina Rauer Newton, deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC Post O ce Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 (910) 485-8899 04/02/2026, 04/09/2026, 04/16/2026 and 04/23/2026 NOTICE In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File 26E000366-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Polly T.

OLIVIA PETTIFORD CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000008-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Margaret Olivia Pettiford, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to the Executor,

(26E000348640), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said

that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 6th day of July, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 2nd day of April 2026. Marc Pritsky Executor ESTATE OF HILDA PRITSKY AKA DEBI PRITSKY David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: April 2, 2026 April 9, 2026 April 16, 2026 April 23, 2026 NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Elizabeth C. Johnson, having quali ed on the 20th day of March, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Jerry W. Johnson (26E000320640), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 6th day of July, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 2nd day of April 2026. Elizabeth C. Johnson

Executor ESTATE OF JERRY W. JOHNSON

David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: April 2, 2026, April 9, 2026, April 16, 2026, April 23, 2026, NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Nancy K. Lievre, having quali ed on the 25th day of March, 2026, as Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Daryl H. Lowenstein (26E000333-640), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 6th day of July, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 2nd day of April 2026. Nancy K. Lievre Limited Personal Representative ESTATE OF DARYL H. LOWENSTEIN David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: April 2, 2026, April 9, 2026, April 16, 2026, April 23, 2026

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000007-120

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Ti anee Elizabeth Thompson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Ti anee Elizabeth Thompson) to Michele He ner, Trustee(s), dated April 6, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 16439, at Page 0283 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the O ce of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, MARISA BATUS LUCHSINGER, having quali ed as the Administrator of the Estate of MARY T BATUS, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said MARISA BATUS LUCHSINGER, at the address set out below, on or before July 6, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below. This the 26th day of March, 2026. MARISA BATUS LUCHSINGER Administrator OF ESTATE OF MARY T BATUS c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405 RANDOLPH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of GLORIA MARILYN MILLER AUMAN aka GLORIA M. AUMAN aka GLORIA MARILYN MILLER HARVELL, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before June 13, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 12th day of March 2026. BONNIE H. LOVELL aka BONNIE DENISE HARVELL LOVELL Executor of the Estate of GLORIA MARILYN MILLER AUMAN aka GLORIA M. AUMAN aka GLORIA MARILYN MILLER HARVELL Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 03/12/26 03/19/26 03/26/26 04/02/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Margaret Poteat Griehsbach of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Executor at the Law O ce of Richard L. Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before June 22nd 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 19th day of March 2026. Barbara Jean McLeod Margaret Poteat Griehsbach Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Viola Kidd Lambert, of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Executor at the Law O ce of Richard L. Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before June 28th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 26th day of March 2026. Gerald Clyde Lambert Viola Kidd Lambert, Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on April 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Huntersville in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 10 as shown on the plat entitled “Oaklawn Development, Phase 1” recorded in the Cabarrus County, North Carolina Public Registry in Map Book 89, Pages 41-44. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9820 Oaklawn Boulevard Northwest, Huntersville, North Carolina. Notice: The Property is subject to a Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs), Access Easement and Maintenance Agreement enforced by the City of Concord and State of North Carolina recorded in the Cabarrus County Registry at Deed Book 15425, Page 2. Property Address: 9820 Oaklawn Boulevard NW, Huntersville, NC 28078 Parcel ID: 4681-03-2057 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours 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

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA RANDOLPH COUNTY

In the General Court Of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk 25E000504-750 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HENRY GUNNAR CARLSON, JR. Cynthia Jeanne Carlson, Petitioner, v. Steve Franklin, Respondent. TO STEVE FRANKLIN: TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Order for Implied Renunciation to Qualify for Letters Testamentary. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than 40 days from the date of the rst published notice, such rst publication date being March 19, 2026 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This, the 19th day of March, 2026. Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney for Petitioner NCSB# 39160 Ivey & Eggleston 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 For Publication: _03/19/26, _03/26/26, _04/02/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Charles G. Dixon aka Charles George Dixon, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before June 22, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 19th day of March, 2026

Nathan Charles Dixon and Samantha Dixon

Co-Executors of the Estate of Charles G. Dixon aka Charles George Dixon Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 03/19/26 03/26/26 04/02/26 04/09/26

NOTICE

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Wanda Kay Allred Feather, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT, ATTORNEY AT LAW, PO Box 2445, Asheboro, North Carolina 27204, on or before July 6, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 2nd day of April, 2026

Amanda Goss, Administrator of the Estate of Wanda Kay Allred Feather, deceased TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT

ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 2445 Asheboro, NC 27204 (336) 953-4661

PUBL/DATES: 04/02/26 04/09/26 04/16/26 04/23/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Larry Bryant Walker of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Executor at the Law O ce of Richard L. Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before June 28th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 26th day of March 2026. Christina Garrison a/k/a Christina Walker Garrison Larry Bryant Walker Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of J C NICHOLS, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before June 19, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 19th day of March 2026. HAROLD HARRISON WILLIAMSON Executor of the Estate of J C NICHOLS MARION “BETH” MCQUAID, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 03/19/26 03/26/26 04/02/26 04/19/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Douglas Eugene Wright, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before June 15, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 12th day of March, 2026

Melissa Jane Nelson Wright Administrator of the Estate of Douglas Eugene Wright Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 03/12/26 03/19/26 03/26/26 04/02/26

costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One

Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered 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 ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale.

NOTICE Having quali ed as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Nancy Laughlin Lanier, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned do hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT, ATTORNEY AT LAW, PO Box 2445, Asheboro, North Carolina 27204, on or before July 6, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 2nd day of April, 2026

Michael Ray Lanier and Suzanne Lanier Sidden, Co-Administrators of the Estate of Nancy Laughlin Lanier, deceased TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 2445 Asheboro, NC 27204 (336) 953-4661

PUBL/DATES:

place of sale at the Cabarrus County courthouse at 11:00AM on April 14, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Gary McCorkle, Jr. and Teresa McCorkle, dated February 28, 1994 to secure the original principal amount of $105,165.00, and recorded in Book 1198 at Page 311 of the Cabarrus County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed 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: 11138 Silverton Dr, Charlotte, NC 28215 Tax Parcel ID: 55059437530000

Present Record Owners: Gary McCorkle, Jr. and Teresa McCorkle The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Gary McCorkle, Jr. and Teresa McCorkle. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax

thence with the line of Lot No. 10 South 86 West 150,9 feet to a stake in said line a new corner; thence a new line North 2 1/2 East 80.9 feet to a stake, a corner of John McCain; thence with the line of John McCain South 87 East 150.0 feet to the Beginning. Survey by Walter L. Furr, Jr., July 6th 1951. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 151 Waco Avenue, Kannapolis, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours 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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered 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 ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00),

to be e ective 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 §

Charlotte hires Wes Miller, B4

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

NCAA BASKETBALL

Butler hires alum Nored as men’s basketball coach after Matta’s retirement

Butler hired Ronald Nored as its next men’s basketball head coach following the retirement of Thad Matta. Nored returns to the school where he started as point guard and helped reach two straight national title games. He also holds program records for games played and postseason games played. Nored brings NBA and G-League coaching experience, including from 2018-21 with the Hornets.

Syracuse hires former star guard McNamara to take over as men’s basketball coach

Syracuse Syracuse has turned to its past in hiring former star guard Gerry McNamara in a bid to guide men’s basketball back to prominence. The 42-year- old McNamara, nicknamed “G-Mac,” is returning to where he and Carmelo Anthony led the Orange to a national championship in 2003. McNamara then spent 14 years as an assistant under Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim.

MLB

Phillies third baseman Bohm sues parents, accuses them of misusing money

Philadelphia Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm is suing his parents for millions of dollars, accusing them of siphoning large amounts of his money into nancial accounts they managed for him and then using some of the cash to pay their own expenses. Bohm said his parents refused to give him access to the accounts or provide him with the information he sought about them. Daniel and Lisa Bohm, denied doing anything wrong.

The 29-year-old Bohm has a $10.2 million contract with the Phillies for the 2026 season.

Duke’s season ends in Elite 8

UConn came back from 19 down with epic nal-second heroics

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

Here’s the thing: The play went just the way Duke drew it up.

Each step of the way, the ve Blue Devils on the oor did exactly what their coach wanted.

As the ball is inbounded, Jon Scheyer, looking frazzled and exhausted as he’s watched his team give away a large lead down the stretch — again — shouts “Cam!”

Dame Sarr, running the baseline, does exactly that, throwing the ball to Cameron Boozer, who has scored 27 points in the game and could be going to the line to shoot the free throws that will help seal a trip to the Final Four.

Boozer bobbles the ball as two UConn defenders descend. Scheyer, who lost to in-state

rival NC State after leading by nine in the Elite Eight in 2024, then lost to Houston in the Final Four after leading by 14 last year, winces. But Boozer is able to retrieve the ball. He tosses it back to Sarr.

Now, looking excited as it appears Duke may be able to pull this o and protect what

The Wolfpack hired Tennessee associate coach Justin Gainey

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

THE WILL WADE era has o cially come to a close after just a single season in Raleigh.

Following weeks of rumors and speculation, the news became o cial last Thursday, with Wade tendering his resignation at NC State in order to return to coach the LSU Tigers, where he had previously coached four years prior.

“We thought we had someone to lead our men’s basketball program, and over the course of the last year, we had developed a relationship that I believed was based on trust and accountability,” said NC State athletic director Boo Corrigan at a press conference held last Thursday. “There was no reason, for me in my job, to not believe the words that I was hearing coming back to me from Coach Wade. I was as surprised and shocked as any-

one else as this occurred based on the previous conversations that we had had.”

According to Corrigan, he and Wade had been discussing plans for the upcoming season and the program as a whole as recently as just a few days prior to his resignation, and there was never any indication from the former coach that he was considering leaving.

But it turns out there was plenty of drama unfolding behind the scenes, with talks between Wade and LSU allegedly having occurred more than a month before the end of the season.

And, ultimately, things ended messy, with Wade going back on everything he had previously said, no-showing anal meeting with administration and resigning through his agent by email.

“I’m just disappointed by how it went down,” Corrigan said. “I really am.” Wade was under contract with NC State for another ve seasons, having signed a six-year, $17.25 million deal to come to Raleigh last year, how-

once was a 19-point lead, Scheyer points rapidly, but his players are way ahead of him.

Scheyer points to Cayden Boozer, who is just shy of midcourt, but the ball is already on the way to him.

Boozer could hold the ball.

A nation of armchair point guards will declare this on

sports radio calls and message board posts over the hours to come. Except that to hold the ball means free throws, and, at best, a three-point lead, and a last-ditch UConn 3-point attempt that could mean overtime.

No, Duke can guarantee victory with a pass toward an open man. And there are two to choose from.

Two other Blue Devils have broken free and are at the far end of the court, all alone. By the time the nearest UConn defender could reach them, the game will be over. One is Patrick Ngongba. The big man is outside the 3-point line in front of Duke’s bench.

See DUKE, page B3

ever, it seems that he never really had intended to stay long. He and the university settled on a $4 million buyout. In the end, Wade delivered a seventh-place ACC nish, a First Four exit and multiple blowout losses, with his signature win being over UNC when the Tar Heels didn’t have their two best players. Empty platitudes and promises were the biggest things Wade brought to the Wolfpack faithful, but that’s sort of become the new standard for col-

lege athletics where loyalty gets you nothing.

The only thing that matters is how big the check is, and NC State was seemingly unable to compete with a school like LSU.

The Wolfpack aren’t the only ones this has happened to. The Tigers are putting together a slew of poached coaches, with Wade joining the likes of Lane Ki n, Kim Mulkey and Jay Johnson.

TRENDING

Adam Howard:

The former NC State assistant basketball coach was named head coach at Troy. Howard arrived at State from the Nebraska sta and spent one year working under coach Will Wade. Howard’s future was uncertain after Wade left the program to return to LSU. Howard, a Troy assistant from 2016-18, replaces Scott Cross, who was hired by Georgia Tech.

Stephen Curry:

The Charlotte native and former Davidson player missed his 24th straight game for the Golden State Warriors but is set to resume ve-on- ve scrimmaging in the coming days with hopes he might return from a lingering knee injury before the end of the regular season. The 38-year-old has been coping with in injury for the past two months.

Teddy Ho man:

The sophomore wide receiver at NC State will miss the 2026 season after testing positive for a performanceenhancing substance, the school announced. A positive test automatically triggers an NCAA suspension of one calendar year and one full season. He had 25 catches for 349 yards and three touchdowns as a true freshman last season and also threw a 59-yard touchdown pass against Pitt.

Beyond the box score

POTENT QUOTABLES

“I don’t know anything and don’t want to talk to anybody.”

Former UNC coach Roy Williams when asked about Hubert Davis while UNC was still deciding what to do with Williams’ since- red successor. Williams said he would talk about “golf or polo but … not what’s going on.”

“The Wolfpack ain’t for soft people. We’re gonna go nd a coach that agrees.”

NC State Athletic Director Boo Corrigan, right, discussing the departure of basketball coach Will Wade, left.

PRIME NUMBER

Three-pointers made by the Charlotte Hornets in a win over Sacramento, tying a franchise record. Coby White and LaMelo Ball each made six as the Hornets matched a mark they set in March 2025.

NASCAR

Chase Elliott outdueled Denny Hamlin at Martinsville Speedway to earn his rst NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season. Elliott capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit earlier than the other contenders. Elliott took rst from Ross Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin. Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Tiger Woods was released on bail hours after his arrest on suspicion of driving under the in uence. The sheri said Woods was traveling at “high speeds” on a residential road and showed “signs of impairment after” his Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side. He was not injured.

The Bu alo Bills signed former Carolina Panthers o ensive lineman Austin Corbett. The eight-year veteran started 37 games at center and guard for Carolina over four seasons. The 30-year-old, who also played in Cleveland and with the Los Angeles Rams, has the opportunity to take over at starting left guard.

NC State received an automatic bid to the 2026 National Duals Invitational, a $1 million collegiate wrestling event held in Tulsa in December. State earned a bid by nishing in the top 10 in the nal NCAA standings. State competed in the 2025 tournament and lost to Oklahoma State and Virginia Tech after an opening-round win over Northern Iowa.

Mullins’ Miracle: How does his shot for UConn measure up

The shot to beat Duke joins a long list of March clutch plays

By Noah Trister The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

A couple of days ago, Braylon Mullins was a UConn freshman whose name carried weight mostly among the true diehards — college basketball junkies and Indiana high school hoops enthusiasts.

Now he’s a part of NCAA Tournament lore. That’s what can happen at this time of year.

“One of the most brilliant shooters you’ll ever see shoot a basketball made an incredible, legendary March shot,” Huskies coach Dan Hurley said.

Mullins’ 35-footer with 0.4 seconds remaining lifted UConn over Duke 73-72 in the Elite Eight on Sunday, and now that the dust has settled, it’s time to evaluate just how legendary — as Hurley put it — this shot was.

There are several factors to consider when determining the best of the best.

Time and score

Last-second shot means last-second shot. Michael Jordan’s game winner for UNC in the 1982 title game was memo -

rable because of who shot it, but it also left plenty of time for a very ill-fated Georgetown possession at the other end.

Still, Mullins’ 3 doesn’t lose any luster because there were 0.4 seconds left when it went in.

It wasn’t literally at the buzzer, but that’s close enough.

Mullins also gets bonus points because if his shot misses, UConn loses. As incredible as Kris Jenkins’ 3-pointer at the buzzer was when it won Villanova a championship in 2016, the game was tied at the time, so the worst-case scenario for his team was overtime.

Signi cance of the game

Buzzer-beaters are a big part of what makes March Madness special, but as much as the rst couple of rounds create the tournament’s charm, it’s the second weekend and beyond when the national championship starts to feel within reach. So last-second shots take on added importance.

According to Sports Reference, prior to Mullins there were just 16 instances in the men’s tournament — in the Sweet 16 or later — in which a team was trailing before winning with a last-second shot:

• Jack Shelton’s shot for Oklahoma State to beat Wyoming in the 1949 quarter nals.

• Pembrook Burrows’ tip-in for Jacksonville against Iowa in the 1970 round of 16.

• Richard Washington’s shot for UCLA to beat Louisville in the 1975 national semi nal.

• Danny Ainge going coast to coast for BYU against Notre Dame in the 1981 round of 16.

• Mike Jones’ shot from the perimeter to lift Wichita State over Kansas in the 1981 round of 16.

• Kevin Gamble’s jumper for Iowa to beat Oklahoma in the 1987 round of 16.

• Keith Smart’s baseline jumper for Indiana to beat Syracuse in the 1987 title game. This shot went through the hoop with around 4 seconds left, but a timeout didn’t stop the clock until there was 1 second remaining.

• Anderson Hunt’s 3-pointer that gave UNLV a one-point win over Arizona in the 1989 round of 16.

• Tate George’s turnaround at the buzzer for UConn against Clemson in the 1990 round of 16. (Bookmark this one for now.)

• Christian Laettner’s shot at the buzzer for Duke that beat UConn in the 1990 regional nal.

• Laettner again, at the buzzer to beat Kentucky in the 1992 regional nal.

• Cameron Dollar’s shot for UCLA against Iowa State in the 1997 round of 16.

• Richard Hamilton’s fadeaway at the buzzer — after multiple o ensive rebounds — that gave UConn a win over Washington in the 1998 round of 16.

• Chris Chiozza’s running 3-pointer at the buzzer for Florida that beat Wisconsin in the 2017 round of 16.

• Kyle Guy making three consecutive free throws for Virginia with 0.6 seconds left to beat Auburn in the 2019 national semi nal.

• Lamont Butler’s jumper at

“An incredible, legendary March shot.”

Dan Hurley, UConn coach

the buzzer for San Diego State to beat Florida Atlantic in the 2023 national semi nal.

You can see there aren’t many 3-pointers on that list — but there are two other UConn players in George and Hamilton. Now Mullins joins them, and his shot came a round later.

Degree of di culty

Mullins’ shot wasn’t quite as far as the midcourt heaves by U.S. Reed of Arkansas (1981 second round vs. Louisville) and Paul Jesperson of Northern Iowa (2016 rst round against Texas). The more apt comparison, in terms of distance, is with Jalen Suggs’ buzzer-beating bank shot for Gonzaga against UCLA in the 2021 semi nal, although that game was tied before the winning play.

It’s also worth considering the

di culty of the entire sequence. George’s shot in 1990 required UConn to go the length of the court in 1 second, an impressive throw-catch-shoot sequence in which almost everything had to go perfectly. Baseball draft pick Scott Burrell made the long pass for the Huskies. Duke had 2.1 seconds to set up Laettner in ’92, with Grant Hill throwing the ball down the court to him.

The legacy

The reason Laettner’s shot in 1992 stood the test of time is because it was the de ning moment of a second straight NCAA title run for Duke. And obviously, the game-winners by Jenkins and Smart decided national championships on the spot. If UConn doesn’t win it all this year, maybe Mullins’ 3 falls back to a slightly lower tier, but if the Huskies do prevail in Indianapolis, it’ll be their third national title in four years. That’s something not even Duke has done before. And it’s only possible because of Mullins’ Miracle.

Duke, UNC women have runs end in second weekend

The Blue Devils fell short of redemption against UCLA

By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal

BEFORE DUKE’S demise in the Elite Eight on Sunday, its March Madness run had been all about second chances.

After dominating its rst test of redemption against Baylor in the second round, No. 3 Duke found itself on the verge of correcting another early-season hiccup late in Friday’s Sweet 16 game with No. 2 LSU.

Up 84-83 with 18 seconds left, the Blue Devils needed two more free throws to protect its lead, but senior Ashlon Jackson, who bore the weight of missing last year’s go-ahead 3 that could’ve put the Blue Devils in the Final Four, once again carried the gravity of the moment only to miss both shots at the line.

Duke fouled LSU’s Mikaylah Williams on the following possession, and she made both to give the Tigers the lead with nine seconds left.

However, Jackson got a second chance, this time, to x two failures of the past.

Duke rebounded a missed 3 by Taina Mair and called timeout with two seconds left. The Blue Devils went back to Jack-

from page B1

He’s closer — a shorter pass for Boozer than Isaiah Evans, who is outside the 3-point line on the other side of the court.

Scheyer points toward Ngongba, but Boozer is already in the air to throw the game- clinching pass. The team knew the play, defeated UConn’s defense and did exactly what their coach wanted.

Except the two UConn defenders in front of Boozer jumped too. Silas Demary Jr. was at the apogee of his desperation leap, his arms stretched as far above his head as they’ll go. His ngertips managed to tip the ball as Boozer releases it, and it falls far short of Ngongba. Demary’s teammate, Braylon

son on the inbound play, and with a pump fake, she created the space to re a three that took a couple spins around the rim before dropping Duke for a 87-85 win and its second straight Elite Eight appearance.

“My teammates and my coaches, they trust me,” Jackson said. “And they believe in me. Whenever shots aren’t really falling for me, I can’t really hang my head. That’s just how the game goes. Every competitor knows that.”

Against No. 1 UCLA, Duke’s last chance at payback before what would have been its rst Fi-

Mullins retrieves the loose ball.

“I turned the ball over,” Boozer said after the game. “I should’ve been stronger with the ball. I cost our team our season.”

Duke still does everything right. The crowd at Washington, D.C.’s Capital One Center stands, collective mouths agape, watching the nal seconds. Even Scheyer, whose knees buckled as the pass was de ected, a look of anguish on his face, stands, arms raised, as he helplessly watches UConn get the steal. His players knew what to do, though. When Evans and Ngongba saw the ball wasn’t getting to them, they ran downcourt. By the time UConn is ready to shoot, Ngongba is at the top of the key, cutting o a po -

nal Four appearance since 2006, the Blue Devils couldn’t nish the job in a 70-58 loss.

In November, the Bruins crushed Duke by 30 points and looked miles ahead as a team, but after 20 minutes on Sunday, Duke had the upper hand, holding a 39-31 lead. The Blue Devils outperformed UCLA in the little things in the rst half. Despite having a one-rebound advantage on the o ensive boards, Duke scored 11 second-chance points to UCLA’s four. The Blue Devils, who committed six turnovers to UCLA’s 12, also scored 16 points o turn-

tential pass to a 3-point shooter. Evans is in front of Mullins, who gets the ball by the midcourt logo.

Evans was actually too quick getting back into defensive position. He’s ready to stop a 3-point attempt from NBA range. Mullins takes one from two steps deeper — a Hail Mary attempt — it’s so far out that announcer Ian Eagle says, “Mullins tosses it up,” on his call.

Scheyer waves for Evans to come out on Mullins, but it’s too late. He knows it. He’s already grimacing as his eyes follow the arc of the shot.

“I wasn’t up with the ball,” Evans said. “I didn’t realize how much time was on the clock. I probably could’ve been up a little bit more, contest-

overs, twice as many the Bruins recorded in the same stat.

UCLA also had little success slowing down Mair, Riley Nelson and Toby Fournier, who combined for 31 rst half points. But in the second half, Duke went cold while UCLA further established its dominance inside. After shooting 53% from the oor in the rst two quarters, Duke shot at a 23% clip in the second half, and it didn’t help that Jackson, who nished the game scoreless for the rst time this year, continued to struggle.

“We couldn’t get our o ense to be able to score in that second half,” Duke coach Kara Lawson said. “Compliment them for turning up their defensive intensity. That de nitely impacted us, and the quality looks we did get, we didn’t hit, whether it was layups or open 3s.”

The Bruins outscored the Blue Devils 26-8 in the paint during the second half as Lauren Betts and Angela Dugalic combined for 24 points in the nal two quarters and 38 for the entire game.

Duke nished the season with a 27-9 record.

For No. 4 UNC in its 63-42 loss to top-seeded UConn in the Sweet 16, o ensive struggles were a reality for all four quarters.

The Tar Heels shot at a 28% clip and committed 24 turn-

ed the shot. He made the shot.” The shot goes through. Utterly de ated, Scheyer gives a Charlie Brown look of grief, then walks the length of the bench, arms dangling at his sides. Cameron Boozer heads to the baseline and the ball, ready to run the inbounds play for Duke’s nal shot of the season.

But timeout has been called. Evans immediately turns and walks toward the Duke bench. Nik Khamenia is already o the bench and at half court, ready to greet his teammates as they return for the timeout huddle. Ngongba walks backward, still staring at the basket in disbelief. Cayden Boozer looks up at the scoreboard. There are 0.4 seconds left, the exact same

overs, including 11 turnovers in the rst quarter.

Despite that, UNC kept within reach of the rolling Huskies, even holding a 12-11 lead after the rst period.

UConn went ice cold to start the game and relied on Blanca Quinonez’s 11 rst half points to stay a oat. North Carolina native Sarah Strong came alive in the second quarter, during which the Huskies created an eight-point separation before halftime.

The Tar Heels found themselves in a favorable spot entering the second half, but they continued to struggle, getting outscored 20-5 in the third quarter. Indya Nivar ended up being the only UNC player in double gures with 20 points (8 for 15 from the oor), and none of her teammates made more than ve shots nor shot above 40%.

In a game where both teams showed their worst (UNC’s worst and UConn’s second-lowest shooting percentage of the season), UNC going lower made the di erence.

“I felt like we made them go to plan B and plan C and plan D,” UNC coach Courtney Banghart said. “They’re just good. They obviously were able to convert more than we were. It was a really physical game.”

The Tar Heels nished their third Sweet 16 run in the last ve seasons with a 28-8 record.

time remaining as in UNC’s win over Duke a month earlier. That was Carolina’s only lead of the game. This is UConn’s rst lead since it was 2-0.

Losing can be character building. It can serve as motivation for future successes.

“It’s not,” Cameron Boozer said. “It’s a terrible feeling. We’ve got guys that gave so much, guys that got hurt, had surgery, came back and are playing through injury. I wish we could just gure it out and nish the job for them. It sucks for sure.”

“Today’s gonna be a rough day,” said Evans. “Next week’s gonna be rough.”

“It’s hard to put into perspective right now,” Cayden Boozer said. “Obviously, we didn’t get the job done.”

Deep Braves roster has new manager Weiss intrigued

The former Tar Heel plans to win the matchup game in Atlanta

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

WHEN WALT WEISS was playing shortstop at UNC, he was tough to keep out of the lineup.

“‘Don’t even think about taking me out of the lineup unless the bone’s sticking out and maybe not even then,” former Tar Heel coach Mike Roberts once said of Weiss’ desire to play.

Now in his second stint as a big-league manager, Weiss displays a di erent attitude.

“I like to keep those guys involved,” Weiss said of his reserve players. “I don’t like guys sitting on the bench a couple weeks without having touched the eld and then expect them to do well when they have to play.”

In fact, Weiss, who takes over as manager of the Braves after eight years on the team’s coaching sta , pushed for a roster that allowed him to rest players.

“Walt talked about it in his interview,” Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos. “His preference was to have the DH spot be open, just to be able to get guys o their feet and so on.”

As a result, the team allowed All-Star designated hitter Marcell Ozuna to leave in free agency.

“It gives you some freedom,” Weiss said. “I mean, if Alex signs some big hairy guy to be our DH, I’d go for that too. But the way we’re constructed right now: (Drake) Baldwin — he’s a catcher. You can’t run him into the ground, but you’d like to keep his bat in there when you can. There’s a spot for him. Ronald (Acuna Jr.) has two repaired knees. Maybe some days you use that spot for him. You can go right around the diamond and talk about it for everyone. It’s very uid. I do like the exibility it gives me with constructing a lineup.”

“It allows us to move guys around, and I think that’s gonna t Walt’s style,” Anthopoulos said.

While Weiss has plenty of top-level talent to lean on, he also plans to make sure every man on the roster feels valued. It’s one of his strengths as a coach — and now a manager.

“I just think our bench is going to be deeper than it’s been since I’ve been here,” he said, pointing out the o season acquisitions of role players Mauricio Dubon, Mike Yastrzemski and Jonah Heim. “We can

win the matchup game pretty good. … The matchup thing, it’s pretty tough to get the advantage on us, with all the pieces we have. We’re not a platoon team. Our guys are gonna play. But I’m also gonna pick spots to get them o their feet here and there. We have versatility. We have exibility. We have a lot of ways we can spin that lineup and create the matchup advantage for ourselves.”

Weiss played 14 years in the majors. He was Rookie of the Year, an All-Star and world champion. He managed the Rockies from 2013-16, never nishing above .500. Now he takes over a Braves team that had a string of seven straight trips to the playo s snapped last year. He shrugs at the daunting task of keeping that run of success going.

“Pressure’s built into this league,” he said. “It’s there every day when you wake up. It’s just like that in professional sports. We know that. We sign up for it.”

Despite spending the better part of the last decade in a Braves uniform, Weiss has been busy this spring making sure the players feel like they know him.

“I try to go out of my way to connect with guys every day,”

“Pressure’s built into this league. It’s there every day when you wake up. … We know that. We sign up for it.”

Walt Weiss

he said. “I think it’s important. People talk about the line between manager and player, but I tend to blur those lines a little bit. I think you have to connect on a personal level to get the most out of these guys. They have to trust you, and a lot of them don’t trust easily. I get it. You have to earn that. To get the most out of them, they’ve got to know you care about them, and

Charlotte hires Miller as new men’s

Fellow Tar Heel

Marcus Paige has joined the Niners’ sta

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte has turned to a familiar name with deep local roots to lead its men’s basketball program, hiring former Cincinnati and UNC Greensboro coach Wes Miller as the 49ers’ next coach.

Charlotte Athletic Director Kevin White, who assumed his role Feb. 23, announced the hire last week. Miller was formally introduced during a March 25 press conference, becoming the 15th head coach in program history.

“When we began this search, we were very clear about what we were looking for,” White said. “We wanted a leader who understands what it takes to build a championship program. We wanted someone with deep ties to the state of North Carolina, someone who understands the culture, the talent and pride that comes with basketball in this region. We wanted a coach who could develop student-athletes — not just as players — but as young men prepared for life beyond the game.” Miller, 43, brings a resume that includes seven 20-win seasons and eight postseason appearances as a head coach. A former guard at UNC, he returns to his home city with the task of revitalizing a Charlotte program seeking consistency.

“I grew up in Charlotte and Charlotte is home to me,” Miller said. “I get nostalgic thinking about this program because when I was a kid, I’d come over to Prep Stars Basketball Camp and my mother would drive me over here. Coach (Bobby) Lutz had this thing humming. This program was in the NCAA Tournament year after year. It was nationally competitive,

WADE from page B1

NC State isn’t wasting any time though in nding Wade’s replacement, as it was reported that Corrigan was in the air just two days after the news broke for meetings with potential candidates. Corrigan was very direct in the kind of coach that he was looking for to lead the program, even referencing an old Philip Rivers saying.

“The Wolfpack ain’t for soft

so there’s a great tradition here.”

Miller was dismissed earlier this month after ve seasons at Cincinnati, where he compiled a 100-74 record. The Bearcats went 18-15 this past season, including a 9-9 mark in Big 12 play. While Cincinnati posted ve winning seasons under Miller, it nished above .500 in conference play just once, during the 2022-23 season.

Prior to his tenure at Cincinnati, Miller built UNC Greensboro into one of the Southern Conference’s most consistent programs.

From 2011 to 2021, he amassed a school-record 185 wins and guided the Spartans to ve consecutive 20-win seasons to close his tenure. UNC Greensboro reached the NCAA Tournament in 2018 and 2021, and it made postseason appearances in each of Miller’snal ve seasons, excluding the COVID-19-shortened 2019-20 campaign.

Over the past decade, Miller’s teams have produced winning results. He has led programs to winning records in each of the past 10 seasons, averaging 22.5 victories per year during that span. He also holds the distinction of having the most wins (217) by any active coach before turning 40, ranking 15th in NCAA history in wins by that age.

Before entering coaching, Miller played three seasons at UNC under Hall of Fame coach Roy Williams. He was part of the Tar Heels’ 2005 national championship team and helped secure Atlantic Coast Conference regular-season titles in 2005 and 2007, along with an ACC Tournament championship in 2007.

Miller served as team captain during his senior season in 2006-07.

Charlotte is coming o a 17-17 season under third-year coach Aaron Fearne, who was red on March 17 after com-

“I was as surprised and shocked as anyone else.”

NC State AD Boo Corrigan on Will Wade’s resignation

people,” Corrigan said. “We are committed to nding the next coach for our men’s basketball program that wants to be at NC State, that understands who we are, that understands that

it’s got to be genuine. You can’t fake that stu .”

“Walt’s obviously easy to get along with,” Anthopoulos added.

The players have remarked about seeing Weiss, a black belt in taekwondo who also dabbles in MMA and jiu jitsu, work out in the weight room, a far cry from old school managers who expect players to come to their o ce to have any communication or interaction.

“It’s part of job I really like, to be honest with you,” he said. “I feel like I can relate to players. I’ve walked in their shoes. I’ve left blood on the same elds they’re bleeding on.”

Even if, back in the day, he would have had issues with a manager expecting him to take a day o to get patched up.

basketball coach

“We’re going to build a nationally competitive program that’s sustainable — not just one good year.”

Charlotte coach Wes Miller

piling a 47-51 record over three seasons. The 49ers nished tied for fth in the American Conference standings with a 9-9 record and fell 86-64 to South Florida in the conference tournament semi nals.

After a 19-12 mark in Fearne’s rst season, Charlotte

we’re a tough school, that understands that we’re a great academic institution, that understands that our fanbase has very high expectations and can embrace that.”

The three people the Wolfpack reportedly met with were Saint Louis coach Josh Schertz, Tennessee associate coach Justin Gainey and Furman coach Bob Richey.

On Monday, as Wade was being introduced in Baton Rouge, the Wolfpack hired Gainey.

experienced roster turnover through the transfer portal and struggled to an 11-22 nish the following year before rebounding to .500 this season.

Miller emphasized urgency in his vision for the program, signaling that while building a foundation will take time, expectations will remain high.

“We’re going to build a nationally competitive program that’s sustainable — not just one good year,” Miller said.

“We’re going to be sustainable and competitive with all of college basketball. And as Kevin said, we’re going to do it the right way. We’re not going to skip steps. But heck, guys, I want to do it next year.

While the 49-year-old hasn’t been a head coach before, he has deep ties to the university: He played for the Wolfpack from 1996-2000. Gainey also served as administrative coordinator with Sidney Lowe from 2006-08 and as the director of operations from 2008-09 before taking an assistant job with Elon. He’s worked on a plethora of di erent sta s over the years but has been with Tennessee since 2021, where he’s had a big

There’s not going to be patience.” Miller has already begun assembling his sta , adding UNC assistant Marcus Paige, a former Tar Heels standout, to his coaching group. Paige spent four seasons at UNC before a seven-year professional career overseas and returned to his alma mater in a sta role ahead of the 2023-24 season, later serving as an assistant coach. With a proven track record in North Carolina, Miller now takes on the challenge of returning the 49ers to national relevance as the program aims to climb the ranks in the American Conference.

impact on the program in recruiting, scouting and more.

“I hope he gets the job,” Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes said before Gainey was hired. “I don’t think there’s anybody that loves NC State more than Justin Gainey. … If NC State knew what I knew, they would be begging him to be their next head coach because he’s ready not just for NC State, he’s ready to be the head coach of the University of Tennessee or any school in the country. He’s that good.”

22-113208

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 25SP001137-250

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY NORMAN CHARLES RENO DATED DECEMBER 15, 2015 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 9772 AT PAGE 272 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 payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

25CV017325-250

MidFirst Bank, Plainti , v. William M. Huebner, Amy Huebner f/k/a Amy L. Mason, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF SALE

COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

25SP000944-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY GABRIELLE D’EREDITA DATED APRIL 29, 1997 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 4653 AT PAGE 90 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 payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

Publication Dates: April 2, 2026 and April 9, 2026 25SP001060-250

Under and by virtue of power of sale granted to Petitioner pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C-3-116 under a Claim of Lien led on November 7, 2024 in Cumberland County File Number 24M002160-250 (the “Lien”) against Douglas Charles Anderson (“Respondent”), by 300 Hay Street Condominium Owners Association, Inc. As the bene ciary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C3-116, 300 Hay Street Condominium Owners Association, Inc. seeks to foreclose the Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondent defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien. The undersigned will o er for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on April 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Suite 207 of that certain

207 feet West of the intersection of the Southern margin of Pecan Drive and the Western margin of Barrington Cross, and runs thence South 38 degrees 15 minutes West 120 feet to an alley; thence with said alley North 51 degrees 45 minutes West 71.4 feet to the line of Mildred B Poole, also a corner of Lot No. 36; thence as the line of Lot No. 36 North 37 degrees 15 minutes East 120 feet to the Southern margin of Pecan Drive another corner of Lot No 36; thence with the Southern margin of Pecan drive south 51 degrees 45 minutes East 73.5 feet to the point of beginning. The same being three (3) adjacent lots facing Pecan Drive, and being known and designated as Lots Number 34, 35 and 36 in the subdivision of a part of the Poole property, a map of which was prepared by George H Stuart C E, on May 1941, and which was duly recorded in Plat Book 10, Page 11 in the O ce of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina, to which said map reference is hereby made for a more particular description. The above described land is subject to the following restrictions which are construed by the grantees herein as a covenant running with the land.

1. That no residence shall be built on less than two units, and no residence shall be built less than thirty feet from the margin of the street.

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on April 6, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Norman Charles Reno, dated December 15, 2015 to secure the original principal amount of $90,000.00, and recorded in Book 9772 at Page 272 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed 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: 902 Fremont Cir, Fayetteville, NC 28311 Tax Parcel ID: 0429-79-7171 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Norman Charles Reno

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the Order for Judicial Sale executed on March 9, 2026, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 1:30 PM on April 15, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by William M. Huebner; Amy Huebner f/k/a Amy L. Mason, dated May 6, 2008 to secure the original principal amount of $85,818.00, and recorded in Book No. 7883, at Page 223 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed by

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 10:00AM on April 13, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Gabrielle D’Eredita, dated April 29, 1997 to secure the original principal amount of $61,350.00, and recorded in Book 4653 at Page 90 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed 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: 9421 Stewarts Creek Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Tax Parcel ID: 9498-42-5805.101 Present Record Owners:

condominium development known as 300 Hay Street Condominium (the “Condominium”) as described in that certain Declaration of Condominium recorded in Book 8125, Page 710, Cumberland County Registry (the “Declaration”), and also described on those certain plat/plans recorded in Condominium Plat Book 8, Pages 10 through 11, aforesaid Registry.

The above described Suite 207 is conveyed subject to, and together with, all rights, restrictions, covenants, conditions, and/or easements as more particularly described in the Declaration. In addition, the above described Suite 207 is conveyed together with its applicable percentage interest in common elements of the condominium, as more particularly described in the Declaration.

Parcel Identi cation No. 0437-54-4441-207

The street address of said property is 325 Hay Street, Unit 207, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One

2. That no residence shall be built facing the Boulevard Highway which shall cost less than three thousand dollars and no residence and no residence shall be built facing Pecan Drive which shall cost less than two thousand ve-hundred dollars. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2705 Pecan Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28303. A Certi ed Check ONLY (no personal checks) of ve 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 o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered 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 o ered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/

or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are 2705 Pecan Drive Land Trust dated June 30, 2023, Catherine War eld Turner, Trustee.

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 e ective 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

Pursuant

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Norman Charles Reno. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to

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: 837 Palestine Road, Linden, NC 28356 Tax Parcel ID: 0553-32-4678

This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the

The Heirs of Gabriele D’Eredita The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Gabriele D’Eredita. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit

form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental

of ve percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit

agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is 11th day of March, 2026.

Grady I. Ingle, NC State Bar No. 16692 Attorney for Comissioner, Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980)

Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by NCGS §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or 300 Hay Street Condominium Owners Association, Inc. make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed 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 ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and payo of the lien without the knowledge of the Trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 Rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the

Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondent defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien. The undersigned will o er for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on April 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Unit 2327, Building Two, in a subdivision know as Woodland Village Townhomes of building One and Two, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 121, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel Identi cation No. 9496-36-1922 The street address of said property is 2327 Bentridge Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28304. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by NCGS §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or Woodland Village Townhomes Owners Association, Inc. make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed 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

BRIEF

Supreme Court rules 8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ Washington, D.C.

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps Madison, Wis.

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberalcontrolled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

$2.00

Volunteers packed meals for an estimated 92,000 people across four states

By Dan Reeves Chatham News & Record

SILER CITY — Before sunrise on Saturday, the employee parking lot at Mountaire Farms in Siler City was already buzzing with activity. Church groups, nonpro t volunteers, law enforcement ocers and company employees began arriving around 5 a.m. for Mountaire’s annual “Easter for Thousands,” a large-scale meal-packing e ort aimed at helping families facing food insecurity across the region.

Working assembly-line style, volunteers packed boxes containing a full Easter meal: a roaster chicken, canned vegetables, macaroni and cheese, chicken and rice, cornbread mix and brownie mix for dessert — enough food to feed a family of four.

“We want everyone to feel good about food security,” said

‘Easter for Thousands’ feeds families in need Chapel Hill to utilize excess fund balance for various needs

The town had around $3 million in excess funding from FY 2025

By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record

CHAPEL HILL — The Town of Chapel Hill will be utilizing excess funds left over from the

scal year 2025 fund balance to cover one-time funding needs.

According to Business Management Director Amy Oland, the excess funds are a result of the town ending FY25 in a much stronger nancial position than originally anticipated.

“Midyear, we were preparing for a very di erent outcome,” Oland said. “Sales tax revenues were dropping sharply and we anticipated minimal lapsed salary savings. In response, we asked departments to pause on major expenditures, to delay noncritical hiring and to hold o nondiscretionary projects. These decisions were intentional and designed to protect our year-end nancial position.”

However, the town had bet-

Apollo vs. Artemis: What to know about NASA’s return to the moon

“There is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be.”

Christina Koch, NASA astronaut

Artemis brings greater diversity to humanity’s return to lunar orbit

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — NASA’s Apollo moonshots are a tough act to follow, even after all this time.

As four astronauts get set to blast o on humanity’s rst trip to the moon in more than half a century, comparisons between Apollo and NASA’s new Artemis program are inevitable. The world’s rst lunar visitors

orbited the moon on Apollo 8. The Artemis II crew will play it safe and zip around the moon in an out-and-back slingshot.

Another key di erence: Artemis re ects more of society, with a woman, person of color and Canadian rocketing away.

While Artemis builds on Apollo and pays homage to it, “there is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch, part of the Artemis II crew. Here’s the lowdown on Apollo vs. Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as

“We’ve got it down to a science. They get started, the music starts playing, and watch out, they’re rolling.”

Liz Mauney, Mountaire Cares

Liz Mauney, manager of Mountaire Cares.

Mountaire Farms, the nation’s fourth-largest chicken company, marked the 30th year of the initiative, which is organized through the company’s

ter sales tax and inspection permit revenues, as well as lapsed salary savings, than projected.

“After the budget was adopted, the picture improved,” Oland said.

As a result, the town had excess savings of around $3 million, and at the town council’s March 25 meeting, the council approved an appropriation in that amount for various items.

“Ending the year with excess fund balance re ects strongnancial management,” Oland said. “This outcome directly supports the council’s goal of organizational and scal

CRIME LOG

March 23

• Eleazar Costilla Benitez, 58, was arrested for failing to properly restrain a dangerous dog.

March 24

• Dewey Lee Smith, 44, was arrested for identity theft, resisting a public o cer and possession of up to half an ounce of marijuana.

• Aurora Michelle Bertine, 32, was arrested for indecent liberties with a child, second-degree forcible sex o ense and crime against nature.

March 25

• Marcos Emmanuel Benitez, 24, was arrested for violating an ordinance prohibiting animals at large.

• Nicholas James Beckner, 30, was arrested for indecent liberties with a child, second-degree forcible sex o ense, crime against nature and felony child abuse involving a sexual act.

• Noe Wuilfredo Perla, 25, was arrested for going armed to the terror of the people, possession of marijuana and assault on a female.

March 26

• Archimedes J. Kyrillidis, 63, was arrested for second-degree trespass.

• Ashley Culbreth Johnson, 60, was arrested for indecent exposure, obstructing a public o cer and obstructing justice.

• Timothy Richard Fox, 19, was arrested for larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen motor vehicle and purchasing or disposing of a motor vehicle from a chop shop.

March 27

• Robert Alton Lockwood, 38, was arrested for driving while impaired, failure to comply with license restrictions, reckless driving with wanton disregard and speeding.

March 28

• Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired.

• Charity Lee Chambers, 54, was arrested for operating a vehicle with no insurance, driving without an operator’s license and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

March 29

• Christopher Bryan Monroe, 28, was arrested for driving while impaired, expired registration, reckless driving with wanton disregard and rear lamps violation.

• Daniel Joseph Summa, 70, was arrested for simple possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Billie Bowles Powell, 66, was arrested for felony possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting a public o cer.

Tillis, other senators to visit Taiwan before Trump’s summit with China’s Xi

Lawmakers look to improve ties with Taiwan, Japan and South Korea

By Stephen Groves The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of four senators has plans to visit Taiwan, Japan and South Korea in the coming days on a trip meant to bolster U.S. alliances seen as important to countering China’s dominance in Asia.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, announced the trip Saturday. She will be joined by Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). Their visits to Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul are coming before President Donald Trump’s trip to Beijing in May for a rescheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The lawmakers’ stop in Taiwan could draw scrutiny from China, which opposes such relations and sees them as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over the self-governing island. Taiwan relies on American backing for its democracy, but recent moves by Trump, such as discussing

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) descends a stairwell after a vote at the Capitol last month in Washington, D.C.

a potential weapons sales to Taiwan with Xi, have raised questions about the future direction of U.S. policy.

Analysts in both China and the United States believe Xi, through the leader-level summit, will try to in uence Trump to soften the U.S. stance on Taiwan.

“This bipartisan delegation demonstrates Congress’ commitment to these alliances and partnerships is unwavering and will endure well beyond any one administration,” Shaheen said in a statement.

In a show of reassurance to the Asian allies, the lawmakers plan to meet with political leaders and defense o cials on their trip.

“Our alliance with Taiwan is one of the most strategically and morally signi cant partnerships America has in the Indo-Paci c,” Curtis said.

It remains to be seen how Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, Iran and elsewhere could in uence other powers such as China and Russia. But there is some concern among lawmakers that the Republican president’s actions could be seen as giving those countries an opening for their own foreign moves.

The economic relationship with Taiwan has also come under scrutiny from the Trump administration. The U.S. is reliant on Taiwan for its production of computer chips, which contributed to a trade imbalance of nearly $127 billion during the rst 11 months of 2025.

The Trump administration reached a deal with Taiwan in February that removed 99% of its trade barriers.

During another visit by a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers last year, they emphasized that the U.S. would continue to partner closely with Taiwan.

Sanford, former SC governor, makes last-minute bid to return to Congress

He’s trying for his former seat with an emphasis on the national debt

By Meg Kinnard and Je rey Collins The Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mark Sanford, the former South Carolina congressman and governor whose political ascendency was stalled by a 2009 a air, wants to return to Congress — again.

Just hours ahead of the deadline to do so, Sanford led candidacy paperwork with state o cials to run in the June 9 GOP primary for South Carolina’s 1st District seat, which he has held twice before.

Sanford’s rst political o ce was in the 1st District. An outsider with almost no name recognition, he navigated a primary for the open seat, nishing second before winning the runo . He served for six years before his outside run at governor, again pushing his way through a crowded primary and then knocking o the last Democrat to hold the o ce.

But his eight years were overshadowed by the Appalachian Trail, which became shorthand for Sanford’s disappearance to go to Argentina to see his lover. Sanford’s wife,

FUNDS from page A1 sustainability and reinforces our commitment to responsible budgeting and long-term scal resilience.” Town sta recommended breaking the funding up for six separate items:

• $100,000 to cover the town’s cost share allocation requirement from the Greene Tract master plan

• $140,000 to cover the upfront costs of a contract with IEM International to manage FEMA disaster recovery grant work

• $327,500 for purpose-built equipment to remove leaves from gutters

• $360,000 for improved way nding and the purchase of lights and decorations for downtown

ELISE AMENDOLA / AP PHOTO

Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford speaks during a news conference in 2019 in Concord, New Hampshire.

family and his sta didn’t know where he was.

Beating back both an ethics inquiry and calls to resign, Sanford held fast, leaving o ce on his own terms.

In 2013, Sanford won back his old seat, beating 15 other candidates in a primary and runo . He won two more full terms before falling to a GOP challenger in 2018 who had President Donald Trump’s backing.

The seat would go on to ip to Democratic hands that fall for the rst time in decades, won back by GOP Rep. Nancy Mace in 2020. Mace is running for governor this year.

Sanford, 65, also brie y ran

“(We’re) focusing funding on where we can make the greatest impact now.”

Amy Oland, business management director

• $1 million for the demolition of Fire Station 4 as well as to cover construction funding gaps

• $1,072,500 to be allocated to the FY 2026 parking fund to cover the gap in revenue projections

“Selecting targeted projects ensures we stay disciplined and avoid overcommitting our limited funds and focus -

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County.

April 4

Chatham Mills Farmers Market — 2026 Season Opening 8 a.m.

The outdoor market returns for its 2026 season on the lawn of historic Chatham Mills, o ering locally grown produce, artisan foods, crafts and goods from area vendors. The market runs Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon, April through October. visitpittsboro. com/event/chatham-millsfarmers-market/2026-04-04

Chatham Mills 480 Hillsboro St. Pittsboro

April 5

Downtown Pittsboro Historical Walking Tours — “The Arts” Noon

The Chatham County Historical Association leads guided walking tours exploring the history of artists, performers and creative spaces that shaped downtown Pittsboro’s cultural life. Two sessions are o ered — noon to 1:30 p.m. and 2-3:30 p.m. — with attendance limited to 20 per tour; admission is $5 for members, $10 for nonmembers. chathamhistory.org/Events

for president in 2020, challenging Trump for the nomination in what he characterized as a “long shot” e ort around warnings about the national debt. Some, including Sanford’s former gubernatorial sta ers, initially questioned whether the e ort was a serious one, positing that it might be an e ort to stay relevant after the 2018 defeat.

Sanford dropped out of the contest just ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Sanford’s home state would ultimately opt not to hold a 2020 GOP presidential primary, clearing the way for Trump’s nomination in South Carolina.

Sanford did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Monday. True to the themes that have dominated his political thinking, an email release on Sanford’s candidacy focused on the national debt, with the candidate saying he felt 1st District voters wanted a representative “who is an advocate for nancial sanity that has been lost in Washington for all too long.“

Since leaving the U.S. House, Sanford has hung onto more than $1.3 million in a federal campaign account, funds that he can now use in a primary already crowded with multiple Republican and Democratic candidates.

ing on the highest impact opportunities,” Oland said. “The proposed recommendation for these funds re ects a careful alignment of organizational needs and council priorities, focusing funding on where we can make the greatest impact now.”

“We have interest in doing a lot of stuff, but we’re really in some difficult times financially,” said council member Paris Miller-Foushee. “The state has yet to pass a budget, we’re dealing with a lot at the federal level, and the fact that we’re able to move forward with the allocations and lean into some of our priorities, I hope our community is able to see that.”

The Chapel Hill Town Council will next meet April 8.

Historic Chatham County Courthouse 9 Hillsboro St. Pittsboro

First Sunday Sound Bath 11:30 a.m.

Musician Jenn leads a one-hour sound bath in the cathedral-like tasting room of Starrlight Mead, combining ambient tones and healing sounds in a nondogmatic communal setting. Admission is $20 suggested; attendees should bring a yoga mat and cushions. starrlightmead. com/upcoming-events Starrlight Mead 130 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

April 6

American Red Cross Blood Drive 10 a.m.

The American Red Cross holds a community blood drive at the Chatham Community Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. chathamcountync.gov/ government/departmentsprograms-i-z/parksrecreation/upcoming-eventsand-programs

Chatham Community Library, Holmes Family Meeting Room 197 N.C. Highway 87

Church News

OAKLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

As Oakley Baptist Church (2300 Siler CityGlendon Road, Siler City) seeks to begin its next chapter, we are enjoying hearing a word from the Lord from various old and new friends. Our service begins at 10:30 a.m., but we also have Sunday School classes for every member of the family at 9:30 a.m. We would be blessed if you joined us for any and all of these speakers in the coming weeks.

April 5 – John Strider

April 12 – Jason Golden

April 19 – Gary McCollough

charitable arm. The program is designed to place a traditional Easter meal on the tables of families who might otherwise go without.

This year’s e ort unfolded simultaneously at four Mountaire locations — Selbyville, Delaware; Siler City; Lumberton; and Statesville. Together, volunteers packed about 23,000 boxes, enough food for roughly 92,000 people.

After an invocation by Mountaire chaplain Iris Jordan, the packing lines moved quickly.

Music played over speakers as teams sealed boxes and loaded them onto trucks bound for churches and distribution centers across the state.

“We’ve got it down to a science,” Mauney said. “They get started, the music starts playing and watch out — they’re rolling.”

Volunteers were fueled by breakfast prepared by the culinary department at Chatham Central High School. Led by teacher Everett Goldston, the school’s Bear Claw Café served chicken biscuits made with Mountaire poultry along with co ee and hot chocolate.

“Everybody raved about the breakfast from the Bear Claw,” Mauney said. “It was great to have the culinary students involved.”

By late morning, the nal trucks had pulled away, heading toward partner organizations that would distribute the meals ahead of Easter Sunday.

“I’m grateful for the help from both our employee volunteers and the community,” Mauney said. “There were a lot of events happening this weekend, and we appreciate everyone who chose to come out and help.”

Teachers, are you looking for new opportunities to fund projects for your classroom?

Central Electric is awarding up to $15,000 in Bright Ideas education grants to local educators in K-12 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year.

Educators in K-12 classrooms with creative ideas for learning projects are encouraged to apply for a grant up to $2,000.

Grant applications will be accepted through Sept. 15. However, it pays to apply early.

All teachers who submit their applications by the early bird deadline of Aug. 15 will be entered into a drawing for one of ve $100 Visa gi cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!

April 26 – Spencer Andrews

We look forward to meeting you at any of these services and in the future, and invite you to pray with us as we seek a new pastor. To learn more, go to oakleybaptist.org or email us at oakleybaptistchurch@gmail.com.

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Oakley Baptist Church will be on Saturday, April 4 from 1-3 p.m. at Lou Clark Park. All kids are welcome, and remember to bring your Easter Basket!

Easter Sunday Services at Oakley Baptist Church

Sunrise Service at 8 a.m.

Breakfast at 8:15 a.m. (Sponsored by the Deacons)

No Sunday School

Service begins at 9:30 a.m., including Special Music by the Choir ALL ARE WELCOME!

SANDY BRANCH BAPTIST CHURCH

Everyone is invited to our special Easter services as we celebrate the victorious resurrection of our Savior.

On Friday, April 3 at 7 p.m., we will have our Good Friday service as we remember Jesus’ cruci xion and death.

Our April 5 Easter morning schedule is: 8 a.m. – Breakfast in the Activities Building; 9 a.m. – Worship service and decorating the cross in the sanctuary; 10 a.m. Sunday School classes. There will be no 11 a.m. service.

We are located at 715 Sandy Branch Church Road, Bear Creek. You are always welcome to join us.

Horton High School Alumni Association 2026 Scholarship Application

Applications are being accepted for Horton High School Alumni Association 2026-2027 Scholarship

Descendent of Horton High School alumnus or attendee of Horton High School may apply.

• Apply on website: www.hortonhighalumni.com

• CLICK: “Scholarship”

Deadline for application: June 1, 2026

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Holy laughter

HERE IS AN IDEA that I cannot prove: The man known as Jesus had a funnier sense of humor after his resurrection than before.

Not that I think the rabbi was humorless in his earthly life. His counsel to “consider the birds of the air” and “the lilies of the eld” evidences a certain joie de vivre. He probably smiled, if only to himself, when headstrong Peter started sinking into the water after taking a few steps. (He had nicknamed Peter the “rock,” after all!) However, Jesus then had to rescue that poor sherman of little faith, and throughout his life, he was constantly busy with healing and teaching, often having to repeat himself. I imagine there were simple pleasures on the journey, but he also knew he was headed to the cross.

the way?” Though seemingly an innocent inquiry, there must have been something pointed in his demeanor, for the disciples immediately shut up like children anticipating a reprimand from their teacher.

The resurrection is “funny” in the way that all things that are too good to be true bring joy. I have come to trust that humor cannot explain mystery but does recognize the holiness of a moment.

My theory about his post-resurrection humor comes from contrasting two conversations. The rst occurred on the way to Jerusalem, where Jesus would be executed, when his disciples argued with one another. After they arrived at their overnight destination, Jesus asked them, “What were you talking about on

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

Flash forward to the day of his resurrection. Once again, two disciples walked along a road, holding an adamant discussion. Jesus suddenly appeared and inquired, “What are you discussing as you walk?” These disciples immediately responded with the story of the carpenter’s son from Nazareth and how he had been arrested and cruci ed. What’s more, they had an indignant question for this stranger: “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”

(See Luke 24:13–35.)

Now that’s funny, right? They are accusing of ignorance the very man who lived and died in the story!

I like to picture Jesus listening to their story, nodding in an appropriately serious way at all the right moments. I imagine the mirth couldn’t help but sparkle in his eyes.

I do not mean to be cavalier. I minister to the sick and dying, and I live in a death- dealing culture in a time of global violence and mass extinction. There’s nothing funny about tragedy or su ering. And yet, glimpses of joy and moments of levity and light-heartedness persist. I can only imagine that these are but foretastes of the heavenly banquet. Surely, laughter is on the menu!

As I envision the Risen Christ, listening to these disciples recount his cruci xion as if it happened to someone else, I can’t help but smile at the thought of him giggling, and it helps me to keep going in my journey.

Andrew Taylor-Troutman’s newest book is “This Is the Day.” He serves as pastor of Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church as well as a writer, pizza maker, co ee drinker and student of joy.

This time, like all times, is the best of times

My theory about his postresurrection humor comes from contrasting two conversations. Since my birthday cake holds a bunch of candles, I may not have as many tomorrows as before and there’s still a lot to do.

YEARS AGO, when dinosaurs roamed the earth and I was a youngster, I was a star athlete.

At least in my backyard. Why, in that day and age, I could toss a no-hitter for my beloved Cardinals while cracking a bases-loaded homer in the last at-bat. At the same time, I could knock in 30 points for Dean’s Heels and run a kicko back a hundred yards to break a scoreless tie in the Rose Bowl. And the great thing about all that was I could do them one after another without missing a beat or even at the same time. And, on top of that, I could broadcast the games to an audience of thousands while playing in them.

I say all that, of course, to contrast it to reality, which is that none of those things ever happened except in my mind, and there are several reasons for that. One is I wasn’t and still am not particularly athletic. Oh, I once scored 15 points in a freshman basketball game, but I never got o the J.V. team and when I got old enough to get an after-school job, I opted for the cash. Mainly my athletic interest was either on the concession stand or a cheerleader.

BE IN TOUCH

But there’s another issue which impacted those tender times and turned into a long-time character aw that I’m now trying very hard to get over because it does have consequences. I speak of procrastination. During those high school years, I was not noted for being eet of foot. I was usually the last one down the basketball court when the ball changed hands. My buddies started calling me “Lightning” as a back door jab. So, in time, that became a self-ful lling prophecy. Through the years, I took the old proverb and turned it around and lived by the mantra, “Never do today what you can put o ’til tomorrow.” Now, the reality is setting in that since my birthday cake holds a bunch of candles, I may not have as many tomorrows as before and there’s still a lot to do … or, at least, that I want to do, and at times putting them o can be unpleasant and counterproductive. Case in point: a recent visit with my dentist, who did some ne work for me and then said I needed to visit an oral surgeon for something she wasn’t all that comfortable doing. Then she said the magic words of procrastination: “You don’t have to do it right away but don’t wait too

long.” And, of course, because the tooth in question didn’t hurt, I forgot about it.

Until 6 p.m. on a Friday night.

I’ll spare you the details; su ce it to say when your tooth hurts, you hurt all over, and as of this date, it’s all in my rearview mirror. But had I not waited two months, I would not have endured seven days of pain and agony. And I wonder how often do we humans put ourselves in similar situations. Procrastination can strike anywhere anytime, big or small. Don’t let it. The Book tell us that “now is the hour of salvation,” the time to get things right with God and our fellow creature. At this season of Easter, or as some call it Resurrection Sunday, put procrastination — whatever it is for you — at the bottom of your priority list.

Recognize and accept the Holy. Make that phone call. Write that letter. Repair that relationship. Right that wrong.

Now.

Not later.

Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.

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

Deer antlers, fool’s gold, what’s next?

Tugboat Jan’s perseverance was really put to the test ferrying home naturesculpted cedar branches and sticks from my forest frolics.

I NO LONGER wanted to be a homeowner. Been there, done that. Desperately wanted to call someone (other than me) when something broke or was in need of resuscitation. (Help! You do it!)

After 22-plus years of owning a home, I had the opportunity to divest myself of stu galore (seriously galore!), temporarily storing what remained. Storing was a true litmus test of what I loved and had been nurtured by over many years.

Temporarily stored …

Multipronged racks of deer antlers, shed by bucks passing through in the spring and sni ed out by my late dog. Every time I found a rack of antlers, it was like Christmas and Hanukkah combined. Whoopee! Stones and rocks catching my eye while out walking in the woods? Home they came.

Tugboat Jan’s perseverance was really put to the test ferrying home nature-sculpted cedar branches and sticks from my forest frolics. Neighbors would kindly wave at me as I tugged cedar branches home. (Oh, it’s just Jan; there she goes again.)

Gosh, I can’t forget that magical clear glass bowl lled to the top with fool’s gold, collected, over the years, while exploring gravel roads. Angular gold specks suddenly peeking out from dark stones. Constant reminders of hidden light, everywhere. Ready to move out, all these wondrous pieces of nature’s bounty were lovingly wrapped, by a friend, and placed in storage for three months until a renovated duplex opened up.

In the new place, many still- lled boxes

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

were sequestered in the kitchen. My cranky knee was querulous about unpacking. Been there six weeks and the walls were still bare, spacious corners yet to be occupied. Lovingly collected branches, sticks, stones, and antlers, all stashed against a kitchen wall.

My nature-collected beloveds of many years didn’t want to come back out. Nothing was calling me from those boxes. No nature imbued voices whispering, “I need light, I need light. Please let me out!” Nothing. My beautiful nature-sculpted sticks were bundled together in a kitchen corner. I avoided looking at them.

Remember Tolkien’s Gollum? Gollum desperately intoning, again and again, “my precious” in reference to the ring he sought. My own “precious,” the beloved totems from the woods, had stopped talking to me. Poof. Gone.

I was totally ummoxed and didn’t know what to do.

Do nothing. Just trust. Light will return in its own time and its own unique form, perhaps one I’m not accustomed to. Meanwhile, I had brilliant vistas of trees that could be viewed from all my windows. Nature, just a bit more remote. Hey, yours truly was still whole, despite those bare walls and empty corners, denuded of my beloveds from nature. I was on my way to the next me…

Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend.

If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Are we safe anymore?

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety.

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination. In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence.

Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope.

Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

obituaries

William (Bill) Covert Smith

March 23, 1949 –March 22, 2026

William (Bill) Covert Smith, 76, of Greensboro, NC, passed away on March 22, 2026. Born in Chatham County, he was the son of Prentice Lane and Lois Covert Smith and was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Charles and Thomas Smith.

Bill worked in electronics technology and communications, including roles at Bell Labs, Micro Computer Systems, and BellSouth. He was also a former deacon and treasurer at Riverside Baptist Church in Burlington.

A lifelong learner with a remarkable memory, Bill was known for his gentle personality and deep love for his family. He especially treasured the eleven years he spent caring for his granddaughter, McKinley “Kinny” Oakes, every Friday without fail. He is survived by his children, Greg Smith (Amy Starke) of Raleigh and Jann Oakes (John “Monk” Oakes) of Greensboro; granddaughter, McKinley Oakes; sisters, Anne and Mary Smith of Siler City; and nieces, Jennifer Harris (Scott) and Kim Dumke, and her son Logan.

A graveside service will be held at Chatham Memorial Park, Siler City, on Saturday, March 28th at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to VoteSaveAmerica or the Cancer Research Institute.

Charlie Kirk’s mentor, cheerleading pioneer Je Webb dead at 76 after ‘tragic accident’

The Varsity Spirit founder turned cheerleading into an international competitive sport

The Associated Press

JEFF WEBB, the founder of Varsity Spirit who helped transform cheerleading into an International Olympic Committee-recognized sport and mentored late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, has died. He was 76.

A family spokesperson said Webb died last Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, following a “tragic accident.” The family has declined to comment on speci cs.

Webb founded the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) in 1974 with the mission of changing the narrative around cheerleading, boosting its visibility and turning it into a globally recognized sport. His e orts included new uniform concepts, educational camps, training programs and the creation of the rst national cheerleading competition. These efforts evolved into Varsity Spirit.

“He helped pioneer the use of advanced gymnastics and stunts in cheer routines, launched the rst national cheerleading championships, and brought the sport to national audiences through televised broadcasts on ESPN,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “He also played a central role in developing the rst safety guidelines and helped establish key governing bodies, including the U.S. All Star Federation and USA Cheer.”

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did.”

Webb’s children

Webb is survived by his wife, Gina, and his children, Je ery and Caroline.

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did, from revolutionizing cheerleading to his never-ending — and constantly growing — list of activities,” Webb’s children wrote in a statement. “He brought that same spirit of dedication and encouragement to being a father and grandfather. To most people, he is a legendary entrepreneur — to us, he was our soccer coach and on-demand comedian, our mentor and father-daughter dance partner, our solace and our source of strength.”

He was also a conservative activist who was described as a mentor to Kirk, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. Kirk’s company, Turning Point USA, posted a video in memory of Webb on social media.

“In memory of Je Webb,” the post reads. “A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country. A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamnewsrecord.com

We offer an on-site crematory with many options of Celebration of Life services, Traditional, and Green Burials. Call us to set an appointment to come by and learn more.

Tracy Kidder, National Book Award and Pulitzer-winning author, dead at 80

His empathy and curiosity transformed obscure topics into literary classics

By R.J. Rico The Associated Press

TRACY KIDDER, an award-winning narrative nonction writer who turned everything from computer engineering to life in a nursing home into unexpected bestsellers, has died. He was 80.

Kidder’s longtime publisher Random House con rmed his death in a statement Wednesday: “Tracy’s gifts for storytelling and tireless reporting are an enduring re ection of the empathy, integrity, and endless curiosity he brought to everything he did.”

Kidder won the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award for his 1981 work “The Soul of a New Machine,” which delved into the work of a edgling computer company long before most people cared about the inner workings of Silicon Valley.

“It was like going into another country,” Kidder told The Associated Press at the time. “At rst, I didn’t understand what anybody was saying.”

Over the ensuing decades, Kidder immersed himself in worlds he was previously unfamiliar with, producing richly researched books about topics that may not sound like light reading.

For 1989’s “Among Schoolchildren,” he spent a year in a fth-grade classroom, highlighting the dedication of an inner-city teacher in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Later, for 1993’s “Old Friends,” he observed the dark side of growing old in America while also chronicling how two friends maintained their dignity in

PAT WELLENBACH / AP PHOTO

Author Tracy Kidder stands in his cottage in South Bristol, Maine, in 2005.

a nursing home despite their in rmities.

Turning these events at a Northampton, Massachusetts, nursing home into a cohesive narrative was one of his major challenges, Kidder told the AP.

“Not a lot happens, and yet I think when you read it, you feel that a lot does. Small things have to count for a great deal,” he said.

In 2003, Kidder wrote “Mountains Beyond Mountains,” about a doctor’s e ort to bring health care to Haiti. The work introduced Kidder’s work to a new generation of readers as numerous universities added it to their reading lists.

“Mountains Beyond Mountains changed my life — and the lives of so many others around the world,” John Green, author of “The Fault in Our Stars,” wrote on social media.

The book even inspired the indie rock band Arcade Fire’s 2010 hit “Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains).”

All the while, Kidder was careful to eschew focusing on his longtime loves like shing or baseball, afraid that if he spent too much time in one of those realms, it might cause him to “feel sick of it.”

Kidder was born in New York City in 1945 and attended Harvard University, where

he signed up for ROTC to avoid the Vietnam War draft.

After graduation, despite thinking he would be assigned a Washington communications intelligence role, Kidder was instead sent o to Vietnam, where the 22-year-old was placed in charge of an eight-man rear-echelon radio research detachment that monitored the communications of enemy units to try to pinpoint their locations.

Kidder documented the confounding experience in 2005’s “My Detachment,” an often humorous memoir that offered insights into the lives of the support troops who made up most of the 500,000-plus U.S. military personnel who were in Vietnam at the height of the buildup when the author served there in 1968-1969. The war became an abstraction for Kidder, who never saw combat and knew the enemy only as “dots on a map.”

After the war, Kidder and his new wife, Frances Gray Toland, moved to the Midwest so Kidder could enroll in the University of Iowa’s prestigious creative writing program, where he latched onto the New Journalism wave pioneered by writers like Tom Wolfe and Truman Capote.

Kidder hated the title “literary journalist,” telling the Dallas Morning News in 2010 that he found the description “pretentious.”

The term creative non ction irked him too: “It suggests we make things up.” Instead, he saw himself as a storyteller.

“I don’t think of ction and non ction as all that di erent, except that non ction is not invented,” he told the AP. “But I take exception to those people who think non ction should not appropriate the techniques of ction ... They belong to storytelling.”

Actor James Tolkan of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ fame dies at 94

The actor spent 25 years in New York theater before his lm career

The Associated Press

JAMES TOLKAN, known for his roles as authoritarian gures in the hit lms “Back to the Future” and “Top Gun,” has died. He was 94. Tolkan died last Thursday in Lake Placid, New York, where he lived, his booking agent, John Alcantar, said Saturday. A brief obituary published on the “Back to the Future” website said Tolkan died “peacefully,” but no cause of death was given. In “Back to the Future,”

Tolkan portrayed the bow tie-wearing vice principal Gerald Strickland, who eyeballed students for trouble in the halls of the ctitious Hill Valley High School — in particular Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox.

“You got a real attitude problem, McFly,” Tolkan’s character says in the 1985 lm. “You’re a slacker. You remind me of your father when he went here. He was a slacker, too.”

Tolkan also appeared in “Top Gun” as commanding ofcer Tom “Stinger” Jardian. Near the end of the lm, when Jardian asks Tom Cruise’s character, Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, about his choice

for future duty, Mitchell replies that he wants to be a Top Gun instructor.

“God help us,” Tolkan’s character replies, laughing.

Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated from high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He eventually made his way to New York, where he spent a quarter century acting in theater roles. He was a member of the original ensemble cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.”

Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who said in a statement that her husband also was an avid art collector and adored animals.

This undated image provided by the Tolkan family shows actor James Tolkan.

NASA targets the rst six days of April for lifto . Run-up to the moon

It took NASA just eight years to go from putting its rst astronaut in space to putting Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in 1969, beating President John Kennedy’s end-of-decade deadline.

“The Apollo program still just absolutely blows me away,” said Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency, Artemis has progressed much more slowly, after decades of indecision and ip- opping between the moon and Mars as the next grand destination. NASA’s new moon rocket, the Space Launch System, or SLS, has soared only once in a test ight without anyone on board more than three years ago.

This plodding approach is why NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, overhauled the Artemis program in February. Keen to emulate Apollo, he added a mission between the upcoming Artemis II mission and the moon landing that’s now shifted to Artemis IV in 2028.

During next year’s revamped Artemis III, astronauts will stick closer to home the same way Apollo 9 did in 1969. Instead of attempting a moon landing as originally envisioned, they will practice docking their Orion capsule in orbit around Earth with one or both lunar landers under development by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Je Bezos’ Blue Origin. The rival companies are accelerating work on their landers in a bid to be rst.

Political rivalries

The Soviets were America’s erce rivals during Apollo, but their moon rockets kept exploding at lifto and they eventually gave up. Now the Chinese are the competition.

China already has landed robotic spacecraft on the moon’s far side — the only nation to achieve that — and is scrambling to land astronauts near the lunar south pole by 2030.

NASA is aiming for the same polar region, where shadowed craters are thought to hold vast amounts of ice that could provide drinking water and rocket fuel. Like his predecessor Bill Nelson, Isaacman is determined to beat China to the nish line and win this second space race.

Moon rocket

Apollo’s Saturn V rockets stood 363 feet, with ve rst-stage engines. The Artemis SLS rocket comes in at 322 feet but packs more lifto thrust with its four main engines and two strap-on boosters.

All but one Saturn V rocket soared from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39-A, now leased by SpaceX. NASA will use neighboring pad 39-B for all SLS ights. While the Saturn V launched twice before carrying astronauts, the SLS has own only once. Hydrogen fuel leaks delayed the SLS debut in 2022 and struck again during a countdown test in February, stalling Artemis II. Then helium trouble reappeared, causing further delay. NASA is now targeting an April lifto . Launch Control remains at the same place. There was one woman in the packed ring

“If we can contribute a little bit to hope for humanity,” said Artemis II pilot Victor Glover of NASA, “that is a huge thing.”

Shades of Apollo 13

The Artemis astronauts will orbit Earth for a day to make certain everything is working properly before igniting the main engine and heading for the moon. It will take three to four days for the capsule to reach the moon and continue some 5,000 miles beyond, exceeding the distance record set by 1970’s ill-fated Apollo 13.

room for the lifto of Apollo 11. Now a woman leads it: Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson.

First lunar crews

Apollo 8 still ranks as the gutsiest space mission of all time. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders became the rst humans to launch to the moon in 1968. Borman, the commander, insisted on as few lunar orbits as possible given the risks. He and his bosses settled on 10 orbits as a warmup for 1969’s moonwalk by Armstrong and Aldrin.

NASA decided long ago against orbiting the moon on Artemis’ crew debut, judging it too dangerous. The main goal is to test the Orion capsule’s life-support equipment, ying for the rst time.

One big similarity between Apollo 8 and Artemis II is the troubled times surrounding them.

Like Apollo 13, Artemis II will take advantage of the moon and Earth’s gravity, making a gure eight after whipping around the moon to head home in what’s known as a free-return trajectory requiring little if any fuel. It got Apollo 13’s three astronauts safely back although they had to abandon their moon landing.

Artemis astronauts will parachute into the Paci c after their mission like the Apollo crews did.

Suiting up

For Apollo, the white, bulky spacesuits did double duty. What the astronauts wore for launch and return was the same for moonwalks since there wasn’t enough storage space for di erent out ts.

The Orion capsules for Artemis are bigger, designed to hold four astronauts instead of three plus two sets of spacesuits. NASA created brand new spacesuits for use inside the capsule, while turning to private companies for the moonwalking attire.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his crew will wear the or-

ange custom- tted suits for launch and reentry. They’ll also use them in case of a depressurization or some other emergency. They can survive up to six days in the suits, inserting a straw into the helmet to sip water or protein shakes and relying on undergarment bags and bladders as a built-in toilet.

Houston-based Axiom Space is designing the white moonwalking suits that will accompany future Artemis crews.

Long-term goals

Apollo was all about beating the Russians to the moon and planting the U.S. ag. Astronauts landed six times from 1969 through 1972, with the longest surface stay lasting 75 hours. Five of the 24 Apollo astronauts who ew to the moon are still alive. For the rst Artemis moon landing, a pair of astronauts could spend nearly a week there. It’s a complicated plan compared with Apollo.

Artemis moonwalkers will launch to the moon aboard Orion and, once in lunar orbit, transfer to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon, whichever is ready rst. They’ll descend to the surface, and, after a few days, blast back into orbit to rendezvous with their Orion capsule. Orion will be the astronauts’ ride home.

NASA is striving for sustained lunar living, with Mars to follow, although “day one of the moon base is not going to look like this glass-enclosed, domed city,” Isaacman said. Last week, he unveiled a blueprint for the moon base showing habitats, rovers, drones, power stations and more. NASA plans to invest $20 billion over the next seven years.

CLASSIFIED ADS REAL ESTATE

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ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for onebedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, onsite laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit. Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-663-1877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity. J14,tfnc

AUCTIONS

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HOME CARE

TAKE NOTICE

Public Notice

The Town of Goldston will hold a public hearing on April 13th to consider adoption of a new Land Use Plan. The Town Board will not meet on April 6th due to the Easter Holiday. For questions about the plan or the process please email Chris Lawson at clawson@centralpinesnc.gov

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000130-180 The undersigned WALTER RICHARD O’CONNELL, JR., having quali ed on

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000155-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the estate of Beulah J. Huneycutt deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Beulah J. Huneycutt to present them to the undersigned on or before July 3, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 1st day of April 2026. Michael L. Huneycutt 10454 Island Creek Road Stan eld, NC 28163 Co-Executor Cathy H. Mcswain 2020B Saint Martin Road Albemarle, NC 28001 Co-Executor

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

Having quali ed on the 26th day of September 2025, as Administrator CTA DBN of the Estate of Henry Roderick Alston, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 19th day of June, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This is the 10th day of March 2026. Woods Doster, Administrator CTA DBN of the Estate of Henry Roderick Alston 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330

Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A.

206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330

Publish On: March 19th, 26th April 2nd and 9th 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of MARY BETTY SOLOMON BASS, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ces of Munson Law Firm PLLC, P.O. Box 1811 Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 10th day of June, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 12th day of March, 2026.

DIANNE BASS HINSON, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF MARY BETTY SOLOMON BASS NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA aCHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed on the 20th day of March 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Jody Lynn Kulick, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 26th day of June 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

On this 26th day of March 2026 George Charles Kulick, Jr Executor of the Estate of Jody Lynn Kulick

Gwendolyn C. Brooks, Esquire Kennon Craver, PLLC 4011 University Drive, Suite 300 Durham, North Carolina 27707 3/26, 4/2, 4/9 and 4/16 The Chatham News

NOTICE TO CREDITORS:

Chatham County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF DOMENIC MAROTTA–

26E000068-180 Having quali ed as EXECUTOR of the Estate of DOMENIC MAROTTA deceased, CHATHAM County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 1st day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 2nd day of APRIL, 2026.

ALFONSO MAROTTA, EXECUTOR DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Peggy Alice Cockman late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of June, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 10th day of March, 2026. Kimberly Rose Cockman, Administrator Of the Estate of Peggy Alice Cockman 1034 Stage Coach Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344

MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850

4tp

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Patricia Ann Campbell a/k/a Ann Lindley Campbell

a/k/a Anne Lindley Campbell late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of June, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 11th day of March, 2026. Casey Anne Campbell Administrator Of the Estate of Patricia Ann Campbell

a/k/a Ann Lindley Campbell

a/k/a Anne Lindley Campbell

255 Bob Clark Road Snow Camp, North Carolina 27349

MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against MARIELLE SHINE aka MARIELLE EMILIA SHINE, deceased, of Chatham County, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before, the 19th day of June, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment.

This 19th day of March, 2026.

BRENDA SHINE, Executrix ESTATE OF MARIELLE SHINE aka MARIELLE EMILIA SHINE

c/o Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130 Chapel Hill, NC 27514

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

COUNTY OF CHATHAM PUBLIC NOTICE HEARING ON INTENT TO PERMANENTLY CLOSE A PORTION OF NC HWY 902

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Chatham County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a public hearing to consider the closing of a portion of NC HWY 902. The public hearing has been scheduled for April 20, 2026, at 6:00 o’clock p.m. at the Superior Court Courtroom, Historic Chatham County Courthouse, Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. The hearing is being held pursuant to the provisions of NCGS §153A-241 and the Resolution of Intent to Permanently Close a portion of NC HWY 902 that was approved and adopted by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on February 16, 2026 upon Petition led by Gavin Mekemson, Maura McKeon and Triple A Homes, Inc. (“Petitioner”).

This the 16th day of February, 2026. Chatham County Board of Commissioners

ATTEST: Clerk to the Board Chatham County Board of Commissioners

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Patricia Collins Perry of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 26th day of March, 2026.

Ronald P. Collins, Executor Of the Estate of Patricia Collins Perry 117 West Raleigh Street Siler City, North Carolina 27344

Notice to Creditors

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Anthony Michael Hayes, Deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina are noti ed to present their claims to the below-named Administrator on or before June 26, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 26th day of March, 2026. Marsha L. Henthorn, Administrator c/o Thomas R. Crawford Attorney at Law Crawford Law Firm P.O. Box 300 Sylva, NC 28779-0300

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

26E000075-180

ALL persons having claims against Carol A. Moore, a/k/a Carol P. Moore, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Jun 19 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 19th day of March, 2026. Leslie A. Argenta C/O Christopher S. Morden, Limited Personal Representative C/O Monroe, Wallace, Morden & Sherrill, PLLC 3225 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 117 Raleigh, NC 27612 M19, 26, 2 and 9

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

26E000128-180 ALL persons having claims against Linda Kay Betulius, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Jun 26 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 26th day of March, 2026. Gregory Gary Duell, Executor C/O Huston Law Firm, PLLC 2501 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 M26, 2, 9 and 16

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000121-180 The undersigned COURTNEY H. KNOLL, having quali ed on the 9TH Day of MARCH 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BARBARA DUNNAVANT HEDGEPETH deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 12TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 12TH DAY OF MARCH 2026. COURTNEY H. KNOLL, EXECUTOR 153 EDGEWOOD DRIVE DURHAM, NC 27713 Run dates: M12,19,26,A2p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000040-180

The undersigned SARAH ELIZABETH WILSON, having quali ed on the 16TH Day of JANUARY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of CALVIN

MARTIN WILSON deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 19TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 19TH DAY OF MARCH 2026.

SARAH ELIZABETH WILSON, ADMINISTRATOR 1764 GLOVERS CHURCH ROAD

BENNETT, NC 27208 Run dates: M19,26,A2,9p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#17E000351-180

The undersigned DOBORAH LOFTON AND MAURICE NUNN, having quali ed on the 12TH Day of JANUARY 2026 as CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of ELSIE

ROSETTA HARRIS NUNN deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 12TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 12TH DAY OF MARCH 2026.

DEBORAH LOFTON, CO-EXECUTOR 50 NEW HOPE CHURCH RD. APEX, NC 27523 MAURICE NUNN, CO-EXECUTOR 93 NEW HOPE CHURCH RD. APEX, NC 27523 Run dates: M12,19,26,A2p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000141-180 The undersigned JAMES TUCKER COWARD, having quali ed on the 12TH Day of MARCH 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JAMES THOMAS COWARD deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 19TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 19TH DAY OF MARCH 2026.

JAMES TUCKER COWARD, ADMINISTRATOR 6448 BUFFALO FORD ROAD RAMSEUR, NC 27316 Run dates: M19,26,A2,9p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000120-180 The undersigned JANET DUNN FRANTZ, having quali ed on the 3RD Day of MARCH 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JOSEPH GLENN

DUNN, SR., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 12TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This, the 12TH DAY OF MARCH 2026.

JANET DUNN FRANTZ, EXECUTOR 1525 RED LANE EXTENSION SALEM, VA 24153

Run dates: M12,19,26,A2p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000153-180

The undersigned JEANNE P. MAXWELL, having quali ed on the 17TH Day of MARCH 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of MARGARET ANGELA GILSENAN deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 26TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 26TH DAY OF MARCH 2026.

JEANNE P. MAXWELL, EXECUTOR PO BOX 3052/27515 CHAPEL HILL, NC 27515 Run dates: M26,A2,9,16p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000156-180

The undersigned TRACI B. NUNN, having quali ed on the 18TH Day of MARCH 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of MARY H. BROWN deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 26TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 26TH DAY OF MARCH 2026. TRACI B. NUNN, ADMINISTRATOR 90 JOHNSON FARM ROAD NEW HILL, NC 27562 Run dates: M26,A2,9,16p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000148-180

The undersigned PAMELA HOWARD SCHAECHER, having quali ed on the 17TH Day of MARCH 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ROBERT FRANCIS SCHAECHER deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 26TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 26TH DAY OF MARCH 2026. PAMELA HOWARD SCHAECHER, EXECUTOR 4624 FORSYTH PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: M26,A2,9,16p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Personal Representative of the Estate of Gerald Stephen Koermer, deceased of Chatham County, North Carolina, on the 19th day of March, 2026, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at

at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center at 1192 Hwy 64 Business West, Pittsboro, NC: ZTA-2026-01. A legislative request by Town Sta to amend the De nitions found in the UDO Section 12.12.

ZTA-2026-02. A legislative request by Town Sta to amend the Record of Amendments location found in the UDO Section 13.1.1 to Section 1.0 of the UDO. ZTA-2026-03. A legislative request by Town Sta to amend the Recommended and Invasive Plant Lists Language, remove the Plant Tables found in the UDO Section 5.7.1 and update UDO Section 5.4. ZTA-2026-04. A legislative request by Town Sta to amend the Relationship to Comprehensive Plan found in the UDO Section 1.5 and provide two (2) subsections for clarity of o cial plans and conformance with acceptance of streets and extension of services. PB-25-345 – DRB Group NC, LLC.; have petitioned to have approximately 74.48 acres of land, Parcel 0062517 currently zoned Residential Agricultural (RA) to be rezoned to Multi-Family ResidentialConditional Zoning (MR-CZ). The Future Land Use Plan designates this parcel Traditional Neighborhood/In ll. The property is located south and west of Powell Place subdivision and Old Rock Springs Cemetery Road, and adjacent to the Rock Springs Baptist Cemetery.

PB-25-624 – Chatham Park, LLC is requesting to subdivide approximately 99.55 acres located on ve (5) Parcels 75046, 96110, 07310, 07311, & 70342, into 408 single family residential (a combination of attached and detached) located along US Highway 64, north of US Business 64, east of Chatham Park Way, and west of Eubanks Road through a Major Subdivision Preliminary Plat. A legislative public hearing on a voluntary, contiguous annexation petition (A-2025-06/PB-25-678) from Chatham

North Carolinian, 3 others make up rst planned mission to moon in half-century

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era.

The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversi ed astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

FORECLOSURES

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore, was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will.

“I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

Reid Wiseman, Artemis mission commander

As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wanna Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.”

Despite having one space ight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as an much time and thought preparing them

as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe

my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

Dangers still loom — something he’s shared with his college-aged son and twin daughters. “The most likely outcome is that we will come back safe. There’s a chance we won’t, and you will be able to move through life even if that happens,” he assured them.

and the successful

party bidder shall be required to make payment for any such county land transfer tax. It is the intent of the holder of the above Deed of Trust that the execution, delivery and recordation of a Trustee Deed to the holder as high bidder shall not merge with any superior Deeds of Trust held by the holder of the above Deed of Trust, and that the holder of said superior Deed of Trust shall continue to enjoy all rights and remedies set forth in said superior Deed of Trust, including the right to foreclose either by judicial action or under power of sale contained in the superior Deed of Trust. The property to be o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS.” THERE ARE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES relating to the title or to any physical,

environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. A cash deposit of 5% of the purchase price will be required at the time of the sale. Remote bidding will not be accepted pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.25 (a). Credit bids on behalf of the Noteholder will be accepted. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price so bid in cash or certi ed check at the time the Substitute Trustee tenders to him a deed for the property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price so bid at that time, he shall remain liable on his bid as provided for in North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.30 (d) and (e). This sale will be held open ten (10) days for upset bids as required by law.

Residential real 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 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 notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective 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 the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the

Dated: 3/10/26

Philip A. Glass, Substitute Trustee Nodell, Glass & Haskell, L.L.P. Posted on 3/10/26 Exhibit A BEING ALL OF Lot 73, Bobcat Point Subdivision, containing 2.812 acres, more or less, and Lot 73A, containing 0.455 acres, more or less, as per plat and survey entitled “Survey for BOBCAT POINT SUBDIVISION PHASE III (Lots 60-74) and Revision of Lot 57 and Lot 59,” prepared by Van R. Finch - Land Surveys, P.A., recorded in Plat Slide 2001442, Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Subject to easements, restrictions and rights of way of record, and utility lines and rights of way in existence over, under or upon the above-described property. PIN: 972400040904 Property Address: 324 Arrowhead Loop, Pittsboro, NC 27312

including the

or

to foreclose

Deed

of

by

contained in the

Deed of Trust. The

to be o ered pursuant to

Notice of Sale is being o ered for

“AS IS,

IS.” THERE ARE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES relating to the title or to any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000140-180 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Je rey J. McFarlane and Cathy Lynn McFarlane (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Je rey J. McFarlane and Grecia Elsa Burga Champa) to CB Services Corp., Trustee(s), dated July 1, 2010, and recorded in Book No. 01519, at Page 0380 in Chatham 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 O ce of the Register of Deeds Chatham 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 o er for sale at the courthouse door in Pittsboro, Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on April 9, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 54 of Rosemont Subdivision, Phase III, as shown on that Map recorded in Plat Slide 2004, Page 360, Chatham County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 558 Royal Sunset Drive, Durham, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours 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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the

successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered 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 o cers, 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 o ered 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 ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed 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

CHATHAM SPORTS

Northwood’s win streak falls in loss to Orange

Orange’s Clark scored ve goals against the Chargers

By Asheebo Rojas

Chatham News & Record

HILLSBOROUGH — Orange snapped conference foe Northwood’s four-game win streak with a wire-to-wire 13-4 decision on March 26.

Senior Brett Clark led the Panthers with ve goals on the night. Clark secured a hat trick in the rst half, scoring Orange’s third goal in the rst quarter and notching two in the second. He also assisted junior Casey Olson for the Panthers’ second goal of the game.

“We’ve got a defensive play where we can go ahead and lock somebody o , and we tried to do that,” Northwood coach Randy Cox said. “(Clark) is a pretty talented player, and they’ve got a supporting cast that complements his ability, and so I think that’s where, today, they got the better of us because their players played collectively as a team better than our players played collectively as a team.”

The game’s rst goal came from a goalkeeper as Orange junior Jackson Runkle ran the ball from his own territory through the back of Northwood’s net less than two minutes into the opening period.

“We just didn’t play well for about 24 minutes, and then, we never got in our rhythm.” Randy

Northwood struggled to respond while the Panthers kept attacking. After a goal by senior Jay Parker with under four minutes left in the rst, Orange led 4-0. Senior Grayson Cox temporarily stopped the bleeding as he fought through contact and scored the Chargers’ rst goal

in the quarter’s nal seconds.

Orange sped up the tempo in the second period, quickly extending its lead with consecutive scores from Clark and junior Jack Eakes. Just before the half, junior Owen Wimsatt joined the party with his only score of the night and gave the Panthers an 8-1 advantage.

“We just didn’t play well for about 24 minutes, and then, we never got in our rhythm,” Randy Cox said.

Northwood put on a better showing out of the break, matching Orange’s two scores of the period with goals from senior Jackson Glinski and junior Malik El Yosef. Glinski nished the night with two goals.

Up 10-3 entering the fourth quarter, Orange junior Daylon Smalls scored twice to help close out the win. Smalls (two), Eakes (two) and Clark were the only Panthers to score multiple goals.

Orange moved to 7-3 and 2-0 in 1A-6A Conference 2

play, while Northwood fell to 6-4 and 1-1 in the conference.

The Chargers are o to their best 10-game start since the 2023 season that ended with a state title appearance. They’re on pace to beat last year’s eight wins. During its recently ended win streak, Northwood defeated three teams with winning records as of Sunday.

“That really is the di erence between last year and this year is that we have that many more returning players that have experience,” Randy Cox said. “At every position, whether it’s attack, mid eld, defense and the goalie position.”

Randy Cox believes his team is “better” than its showing in the loss to Orange. The Chargers will host the Panthers for a rematch on April 21.

Northwood will have a tough stretch of matchups coming out of spring break. The Chargers will play at Seaforth on Tuesday and then host defending state champion Croatan on April 11.

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham

“They were con dent. They believed in each other. They stuck to the plan.”

Graeme Stewart

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record BASEBALL

Seaforth got back on track after its consecutive losses to Cedar Ridge with two shutout wins over Durham School of the Arts (11-0 and a forfeit) and an 8-3 win over Jordan. Five Seaforth pitchers combined for a no-hitter against Durham School of the Arts on March 23. Junior catcher Colin Dorney homered against Jordan. Northwood extended its win streak to four with wins over North Moore (13-2 and 12-2) and Vance Charter (8-3). Junior Finn Sullivan hit 3 for 4 and recorded four RBIs in the rst meeting with the Mustangs on March 24. With back-to-back victories over Lee Christian (13-3) on March 23 and North Stokes (8-3) on Friday, Chatham Central has won four of its last ve. Junior Reid Caviness went 3 for 4 with three runs and two RBIs against South Stokes. Chatham Charter swept Central Carolina in a double header on March 24 (15-2

and 13-0), and it swept Falls Lake with 7-5 and 5-0 wins. Jace Young pitched a no-hitter and hit a home run in the rst win over Central Carolina. The Knights have won six in a row. Jordan-Matthews split two losses to Southwestern Randolph with an 18-0 win over Central Carolina on March 26. Senior Landon Moser hit two home runs in a 3-for-3, four-run and four-RBI performance.

Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference)

Central Tar Heel 1A: T1. Chatham Charter (9-2, 4-0); T1. Clover Garden (5-4, 2-0); 3. River Mill (4-5, 2-2); T4. Central Carolina (0-4, 0-2); T4. Southern Wake (0-6, 0-4) Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. South Stokes (9-2, 6-0); 2. Bishop McGuinness (8-5, 4-2); 3. Chatham Central (5-5, 4-4);

Annabel Unah

Woods Charter, girls’ soccer

Woods Charter sophomore Annabel Unah earns athlete of the week honors for the week of March 23.

In the Wolves’ 6-2 win over Northwood last Friday, Unah logged three goals, including two in the last 15 minutes of the rst half. Her nal score of the night, by assist of Lucy Poitras, helped give Woods Charter a comfortable lead in the second half. Earlier in the week, Unah assisted on three scores in the Wolves’ 9-1 win over Central Carolina. She has scored multiple goals in at least four games this season.

Construction begins on Yardbirds’ ballpark

The eld will be completed by the team’s home opener in May

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

SILER CITY — The construction of the Chatham County Yardbirds’ future home eld is underway.

Last week, construction crews began working on Braxton Field in downtown Siler City and shaping the dirt paths for the in eld.

Home plate will be the closest point to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Carolina building with the out eld extending in the direction of Chestnut Street and Third Avenue. This year, the ballpark will utilize the concrete seating behind the back stop and lawn chairs and bleachers along the fence line for seating.

The eld is scheduled to be completed in time for the Yardbirds’ home opener against the Carolina Yankees on May 27 at 7 p.m. Construction was expected to begin earlier this year, but in March, Reggie Allred, CIO of the Old North State League in which the Yardbirds will play, told the Chatham News & Record that the project fell behind due to “bad weather.”

When completed, the ballpark will feature a concrete grandstand, a beer garden, dedicated space for food trucks,

$200K+

Expected cost of the project

new dugouts, a modern press box and more fan amenities. It will serve as more than a home for the Yardbirds as the ONSL hopes to host movie nights, concerts and other entertainment events to serve Siler City’s downtown area.

The project is being facilitated through a partnership with the Town of Siler City and Yardbirds owner Chatham County Baseball LLC, a privately owned company headed by ONSL President and CEO Alec Allred and Reggie Allred.

Construction costs are expected to be more than $200,000.

The Town committed $125,000 in capital improvements.

The new ballpark will be somewhat of a revival of the site’s former purpose as Siler City’s historic American Legion baseball eld once stood there.

The historic Paul Braxton Gymnasium also stood at the site for over 90 years. Built in 1930, the gym was operated by the former Siler City High School, now Braxton Manor and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, until 1956. From 1957 through 1977, the

school and gym were used for elementary school grade levels and renamed in honor of Principal Paul Braxton, who served as principal for the high school and elementary school from 1931 to 1968.

The gym was demolished in 2025 due to various damages and needed repairs for its structure.

Now, the site is expected to once again bring numerous visitors to downtown Siler City, especially on game nights. The Yardbirds have 17 home games on their current schedule. Siler City Mayor Donald Matthews sees the team providing a “positive economic ripple e ect” to the Town as visitors are expected to bring support to local businesses.

Before the rst home game, fans can watch the Yardbirds in their season-opener against the Wake Forest Fungo at Flaherty Park on May 23 at 6:30 p.m.

Based on the developing roster posted on the Yardbirds’ website, the team is expected to feature players from Chatham County and the surrounding areas, including former Chatham Charter standout Aidan Allred, who is a sophomore at William Peace University, and current Chatham Charter player Jace Young, who will begin his collegiate career at Guilford College next spring.

Other names listed on the roster as of Sunday include Andrew Mullis (Mid Atlantic Christian University), Andrew Riedel (Denison University), Jack Bolte (Kenyon College), Simon Schreiber (USC Sumter), Tyler Dowler (Methodist University) and Weston Rhem (Belmont Abbey).

Haynes to lead Region 5 baseball at Bodyarmor State Games

Northwood’s program leader will return to the Games as a head coach

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

NORTHWOOD BASEBALL

coach Brent Haynes was selected as a head coach for the upcoming Bodyarmor State Games High School Baseball Showcase in the Triad.

The High School Baseball Showcase will feature the best 20 underclassmen from each of eight regions across North Carolina. Each team will participate in a scout workout on June 15 and play one game per day in a tournament from June 16-19 in front of over 70 college and pro scouts. The event will take place at First National Bank Field, Truist Point Stadium and UNC Greensboro.

Haynes will lead the Region 5 team alongside coaches Kevin

“Clover Garden did well, and we learned a lot of things from that game that we talked about, and the girls really implemented it today. And I’m super proud. They were con dent. They believed in each other. They stuck to the plan.”

After Northwood freshman Annastyn Trogdon tapped in a score to bring the Chargers within one (3-2) early in the second period, the Wolves responded with three straight scores to pull away.

Junior Lucy Poitras, who had multiple close misses in the game, including a couple that hit the crossbar, started the run with a goal that put the Wolves ahead 4-2.

“We were con dent,” Poitras

Underclassmen from each of eight regions will participate in the Games

McIntosh of West Forsyth, Ryan Spencer of Trinity and Adam Gunn of Southeast Alamance.

Tryouts have already started for the games. Region 5 will hold tryout sessions at West Forsyth (April 19), Southeast Alamance (April 26) and possibly at Northwood (May 9) if a rain date is needed. All the sessions will start at 1 p.m. Players must be current varsity level players in the 2027, 2028 and 2029 graduating classes.

Haynes was an assistant for the Region 5 team that took fth place last year. He helped coach

said. “We were good at getting forward and having a lot of shots.”

Minutes later, Poitras sent a free kick long and high, leading Unah to a position where she was able to tap in her third goal of the night.

“We actually practice a lot what we call ‘sni ng,’” Poitras said. “It’s where I launch it, and I nd Annabel because she’s good at just tapping it in. If I get it up there, I know that she’ll nish it.”

Freshman Leah Marshall put the nishing touches on the late-game burst with a corner kick that went through the goalkeeper’s hands and into the net.

The start of the game went at a much di erent pace as neither team scored in the rst 25 minutes.

his own player Finn Sullivan, a junior pitcher at Northwood, on that team. Currently, Haynes is in his second season as the Chargers’ coach.

In his rst year at the helm, Northwood went 13-10, nished third in the Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference and ended the season in the rst round of the 2A playo s. Under his watch, Sullivan was named the conference Pitcher of the Year.

This season, the Chargers are 8-4 and 5-1 ( rst place) in Four Rivers 3A/4A conference play as of Sunday. Northwood is riding a four-game win streak into spring break.

Prior to his time at Northwood, Haynes served as an assistant coach at Southern Alamance in 2022. He became the head coach at Eastern Randolph in 2023 before taking the head coaching position at Williams the next season.

Unah broke the ice after dribbling past defenders and nding an opening for the Wolves’ rst goal. Minutes later, Unah rebounded a saved shot from Marshall and tapped it in to give Woods Charter a 2-0 lead.

“Coach says I got the speed,” Unah said. “So, I use my speed to try to get past other players, and I just hit it at the corner.”

Northwood senior Jacey Martinez connected on a goal from long range ve minutes before the end of the rst half, putting pressure on Woods Charter. However, Marshall provided the response two minutes later after rebounding a free kick for a goal and putting the Wolves ahead 3-1 at halftime.

Woods Charter continuously attacked the Chargers’ defense

all night as the Wolves collected seven corners to Northwood’s two.

With the win, Woods Charter moved to 7-0, picking up its sixth victory by a margin of at least three goals. The Wolves are o to their best seven-game start since 2023. At the same point as last season, Woods Charter had two losses.

“We’ve got depth o the bench now,” Stewart said. “We’ve got experience. We’ve got some good players from the middle school last year to come up, and everybody else is a year older. So, you don’t have to teach them about what we’re trying to do because we’re doing very similar to what we had last year.”

Northwood fell to 6-2, snapping a three-game streak of shutout wins.

Both teams will have another nonconference test coming out of spring break.

Woods Charter will host 5A opponent Cedar Ridge on April 9. The Fighting Red Wolves, sitting at 4-5 overall and led by junior striker Kate Finnegan (13 goals this season), will be coming o two straight shutout wins over Webb (8-0) and Orange (2-0). Northwood will resume its season at Seaforth for the rst of a two-game series on April 7. The Hawks will also be coming o two straight conference wins over Cedar Ridge (5-0) and Durham School of the Arts (5-1). Senior striker So a Viana, who leads the team with 11 goals this season, scored a combined for four goals in those two games.

Splash & Socialize

Whether you’re learning the game, mastering your doubles strategy, racing down the water slide, or soaking up the sun, there’s something here for everyone. Perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike—for movers and relaxers. But don’t just take our word for it—come see for yourself!

2 Membership Levels Now Available— Full & Pickleball-Only!

Memberships are available to Chatham Park residents and non-residents.

SIDELINE REPORT

FIGURE SKATING

Malinin bounces back, wins 3rd straight world gure skating title

Prague Ilia Malinin reeled o one huge jump after another, and a back ip for good measure, to retain his world championship title for the third year running. Malinin landed ve high-scoring quadruple jumps but not his pioneering quad axel, a jump he didn’t attempt at the Olympics. Malinin scored 218.11 in the free skate for a total 329.40 on Saturday, far ahead of silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama of Japan on 306.67. Another Japanese skater, Shun Sato, was third on 288.54.

NBA Lakers’ Doncic suspended 1 game by NBA after 16th technical foul

New York

Luka Doncic was suspended one game by the NBA after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. The league announced that Doncic was suspended after a scu e in the Lakers’ win over Brooklyn. Ziaire Williams yelled in Doncic’s space after an o ensive foul call. Doncic pushed Williams’ arm and Williams swiped across Doncic’s face. O cials reviewed the play and gave both players technicals. Under NBA rules, the 16th technical triggers an automatic suspension without pay.

NBA James passes to James for 3-pointer, NBA’s rst father-son assist Los Angeles LeBron James literally passed it on to the next generation. The NBA says James recorded the league’s rst father-to-son assist when he passed to Bronny James for a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Brooklyn. The Lakers’ father-and-son duo played meaningful minutes together for the second straight game. Bronny James was on court with his father for nearly 41⁄2 minutes when they checked in together to start the second quarter.

WNBA

Sun reach deal to sell to Rockets owner, move team to Houston in 2027

The Connecticut Sun have reached an agreement to sell the team to Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta for $300 million and will move to Houston in 2027. The WNBA Board of Governors still needs to approve the sale and the move. The team will play in Connecticut for the upcoming season before moving to Houston and becoming the Comets. This will end a 23-year run by the team in New England after the team moved to Connecticut from Orlando in 2003.

Elliott beats Hamlin at Martinsville for 1st Cup Series win of season

It is the Hendrick driver’s 22nd career win

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

MARTINSVILLE, VA. —

The strategy calls don’t always work out for Chase Elliott in the Cup Series.

So when the plan comes together — as it did in a victory at Martinsville Speedway — it’s especially sweet for NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver and his legions of adoring fans.

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough,” Elliott said while celebrating on the frontstetch to huge cheers after his rst win this season and the 22nd of his career. “So just really, really grateful for the opportunity. I never take it for granted. Trust me, this is a dream come true for me.”

The 30-year-old from Dawsonville, Georgia, capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet earlier than the other contenders. When the caution ew on the 312th lap, Elliott was in second behind Denny Hamlin and pitted with the rest of the lead-lap drivers aside from Ross Chastain, who took the lead by staying on track.

Elliott took rst from Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota.

“It was de nitely a team effort,” Elliott said after his second win on the 0.526-mile oval. “That was awesome. So proud of Alan and the whole team. They did a great job, and we took a gamble. But just so proud of them. They put up with a lot, and they got to put up with me all the time. So I just appreciate them for sticking with me.”

Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Elliott, who has been voted NASCAR’s most popular driver annually since 2018, led 84

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough.”

Chase Elliott

laps in delivering the rst win this year for Hendrick Motorsports. The winningest team in Cup history has a record 31 victories at Martinsville.

Gustafson, whose calls are frequently second-guessed by one of NASCAR’s biggest fan bases whenever Elliott struggles, said he got a supportive call Sunday morning from team owner Rick Hendrick.

“He’s like, ‘Everything’s great, love you guys, playing the long game, and this is a marathon, not a sprint,’” Gustafson said in recounting the conversation. “But nevertheless, when

the boss calls you, it gets your attention.”

The decision was virtually a no-brainer for Gustafson after Elliott started 10th and ran mostly outside the top ve for the rst half of the 400-lap race.

“We were just kind of trapped in like the 10th spot,” Gustafson said. “It’s really hard to pass, and we just need to do something di erent. I just felt like it was worth a shot. And when we pitted early, I think it just drug a lot of guys down. Obviously, the caution’s great. It gave us track position, and the rest is history.”

Hamlin, who has a series-best six wins at Martinsville, started from the pole position and dominated, leading 292 of the rst 317 laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing star got shu ed from the lead during a pit stop sequence under a yellow ag that began on the 312th lap and then lost momentum on the en-

March Madness meets the iPad era

How coaches’ challenges are changing the game

By Maura Carey The Associated Press

FLORIDA’S Boogie Fland was driving to the basket with 1:10 remaining and a three-point lead over Iowa when Hawkeyes forward Cooper Koch stepped into the lane, swatted at the ball and it sailed out of bounds. O cials ruled it Florida’s ball.

Iowa coach Ben McCollum quickly consulted video coordinator Jace Smith, who checked his iPad and nodded yes — go for it.

“I had a very clear view,” Smith said. “Once I saw it, I felt pretty con dent, so it was an instant yes. That was a big moment.”

McCollum challenged the call and won; Fland had touched it last. Iowa took possession and outscored Florida 5-1 in thenal minute to oust the defending champion and 1-seeded Gators with a 73-72 win and advance to the Sweet 16 for the rst time since 1999. That the tournament’s biggest thriller so far was set up in part by a coach’s challenge is something that wouldn’t have been possible in years past. This season is the rst where coaches are allowed to challenge certain calls by o ciating crews. The rule change was approved in June, and eight months later, it’s still an adjustment for even the most experienced sta s. When used correctly, a challenge can ip a game in seconds. But the Gators already knew that.

Florida’s chances of winning a mid-January game at Vanderbilt were slipping when video coordinator Nolan Crist

NC State’s Reed Vial, left, and Patrick Stacy,

watch a replay during a game against

spotted an on-court tangle. He checked the iPad, sideline discussions commenced and what followed changed the game. Coach Todd Golden’s challenge revealed a hook-and-hold, which led to a seven-point swing and boosted Florida’s win probability by roughly 30%. The Gators went on to beat Vanderbilt by four.

Like Iowa, Florida turned to its video coordinator when challenges were introduced. Crist, like all the others, has seconds to make a recommendation.

NCAA men’s teams get one challenge per game and must have a timeout to use it. If the call is overturned, the timeout is retained and the team gets one other challenge. If the call stands, the timeout is lost and no further challenges are allowed. Challenges aren’t used in the women’s game, but coaches can appeal calls. There is no limit on the number of appeals, but a failed one can cost a team a timeout if available. An unsuccessful appeal without an available timeout results in a technical foul and two free throws and

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan (Crist, team video coordinator), he understands it’s his time to shine.”

Todd Golden, Florida coach

possession for the opponent. For Florida, when a potentially challenge-worthy play unfolds on the court all eyes turn to Crist.

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan, he understands it’s his time to shine and gure out what we need to do,” Golden said.

A similar process is followed at NC State, where assistant general manager Patrick Stacy ran the system for the men’s team. Stacy keeps a tablet running next to him — sometimes on the oor next to his

suing restart. He also thought a loose wheel caused his handling to fade in the nal stage.

“(Elliott) did a good job of controlling the pace there,” Hamlin said. “It just really came from that bad restart I had. Just not much really I could have done, and it felt like we gave it our all. We’ll check it out here, but I just thought the wheel was loose here on that last run. Either way, these are just some of the races that get away from you and your career.”

The win came 11 years to the day of Elliott’s debut in the Cup Series. He nished 38th in the March 29, 2015, race that was won by Hamlin. Elliott said he was reminded of the anniversary at an autograph session Sunday morning.

“A couple fans that were here that day came up to me and told me about it,” Elliott said. “So I got to thinking about it. Really cool to kind of see all that come full circle.”

bench seat, other times leaning against the scorer’s table — while tracking play calls and lineups during the game.

“On any close play, I don’t wait for the call, I just instantly look down and watch the replay and then start clicking rewind,” Stacy said. “If I hear the call went our direction, I’ll obviously put the iPad down and stop reviewing it. If it didn’t, then my clock of that 10 to 15 seconds has started, and we’ve got to make a decision on if it’s the best option or to challenge or not.”

“It’s not just a one-person decision. Usually, you’ll hear from the bench what they think. … Then coach will look at it and we kind of come to a consensus,” Stacy said.

A complex dynamic with o cials

The introduction of challenges has changed dynamics beyond the bench. Video replays are now inaccessible to o cials until the nal two minutes of the game, meaning the bench has unseen angles at its disposal.

“It’s very easy for us to get the call right when we’re able to stare at the iPad right after, and these guys don’t have the luxury to do that,” Golden said. “It makes it a little bit of a ‘gotcha’ game, and I think it’s a little unfair for the refs that way.” Several conferences told The Associated Press they do not track challenges. But in 243 men’s basketball games at home arenas in the Southeastern Conference this season, there were 128 total challenges; 85 were reversed and 43 calls stood, a 2-to-1 ratio.

“It’s a little more accurate in how it’s o ciated,” Stacy said. “If you can switch to one or two calls a game to get them right, relative to ones that would be wrong in prior years, it rings truer to what the outcome should be.”

Uwharrie Charter (9-2, 4-2); 3. Southwestern Randolph (7-3, 3-2); 4. Eastern Randolph (5-7, 2-3); 5. Jordan-Matthews (3-9, 1-4); 6. North Moore (4-7, 1-5)

Big Seven 4A/5A: T1. South Granville (9-2, 6-0); T1. Cedar Ridge (8-2, 4-0); 3. Seaforth (9-4, 4-2); T4. Orange (5- 6, 0-2); T4. Durham School of the Arts (3-7, 0-4); T4. Webb (2-8, 0-2); T4. Carrboro (2-10, 0-4)

Power rankings (week of March 23): 1. Seaforth; 2. Chatham Charter; 3. Northwood; 4. Chatham Central; 5. Jordan-Matthews SOFTBALL

Northwood ‘s Kelis Watson went 4 for 4 with a home run to help the Chargers snap their two-game skid in a 15-2 win over North Moore on March 24. After a 10-5 loss to Cedar Ridge the next day, Northwood defeated North Moore again 5-1. Seaforth’s Alyssa Harris, Emma Grace Hill and Abigail Johnson all homered in a 20-3 win over South Granville on March 23. Annika Johansson joined the home run party in Seaforth’s 16-1 win over Webb, and Hill, who also homered in the game, pitched another no-hitter.

Chatham Central won three straight games over South Davidson (19-0), Apex Friendship (6-5) and North Stokes (9-3) during the week. Tied a 5-5 in the top of the seventh against 8A opponent Apex Friendship, Chatham Central’s Maddie Kaczmarczyk sent Maeson

Straight

Smith home for the go-ahead run with a single. Kaczmarczyk then threw three pitches to get three outs in the closing inning (one line out and two y outs).

Chatham Charter also extended its win streak to four with a 15-0 win over Cornerstone Charter and a 21-1 victory over Ascend Leadership.

Jordan-Matthews dropped two games to Southwestern Randolph (20-0 and 10-1) following its 3-0 win over North Moore on March 23.

Conference Standings as of Sunday (overall, conference)

Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Clover Garden (10-0, 6-0); 2. River Mill (4-3, 3-1); 3. Chatham Charter (6-5, 4-2); 4. Central Carolina (1-10, 1-7); 5. Ascend Leadership (0-5, 0-4)

Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. South Stokes (8-4, 6-1); 2. Chatham Central (10-3, 4-1); 3. North Stokes (4-6, 1-3); 4. South Davidson (2-10, 0-6) Four Rivers 3A/4A: T1. Southwestern Randolph (9-1, 5-1); T1. Northwood (9-3, 5-1); T3. Uwharrie Charter (4 -7, 3-3); T3. Jordan-Matthews (8-3, 3-3); T5. North Moore (4 -7, 1-5); T5. Eastern Randolph (2-9, 1-5) Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. Sea-

forth (9-0, 5-0); T2. Cedar Ridge (8-3, 4-1); T2. Orange (4 - 6, 4-1); 4. South Granville (4-6, 3-3); 5. Webb (8-3, 2-3); 6. Carrboro (2-9, 1-4); 7. Durham School of the Arts (0-11, 0-7) Power rankings (week of March 23): 1. Seaforth; 2. Northwood; 3. Chatham Central; 4. Jordan-Matthews; 5. Chatham Charter

OUTDOOR

TRACK AND FIELD

Here are the local rst-place nishers from Jordan-Matthews’ home meet on March 26. Boys (school, event, time): Tyler Congrove (Chatham Central, 100, 11.59 sec -

onds); Ezra Roebuck (Northwood, 200, 22.47); Holton Mody (Woods Charter, 800, 2:15.67); Torris Price (Chatham Charter, 1,600, 4:36.02); Price (Chatham Charter, 3,200, 9:53.93); Yadiel Zayas (Jordan-Matthews, 110 hurdles, 17.11); Zayas (Jordan-Matthews, 300 hurdles, 44.25); Tequone Moore, Kaleb Powell, Wyatt Webster, Roebuck (Northwood, 4x100, 44.67); Jordan Wiley, Sam Bachelor, Juan Sanchez, Moore (Northwood, 4x400, 3:40.18); Zaire Ellils, Drew Yell, Bachelor, Wiley (Northwood, 4x800, 9:09.17); Titus Moore (Northwood, long jump, 18 feet, 7.50 inches); Kamarie Hadley (Jordan-Matthews, triple jump, 40-3); Jakari Blue (Jordan-Matthews, discus, 101-3); Jamison Brown (Northwood, shot put, 39-5) Girls: Athena Dispennette (Jordan-Matthews, 400, 1:07.15); So a Rodriguez (Woods Charter, 800, 2:59.41); Emily Scheidt (Chatham Charter, 1,600, 6:26.24); Sydney Gray (Northwood, 3,200, 12:16.46); Khamya Woods (Jordan-Matthews, 100 hurdles, 18.11); Jordan-Matthews (4x200, 2:02.62); Jordan-Matthews (4x400, 5:18.74); Gabby Ghita, Ashley Perry, Ava Zawada, Gray (Northwood, 4x800, 12:00.28); Lizzie Alston (Jordan-Matthews, long jump, 14 - 0); Juanita Perez (Jordan-Matthews, triple jump, 26-6)

Close sounds warning on coaching’s new grind as UCLA’s postseason run rolls on

NIL and transfer rules changes have made the job all consuming

By Doug Feinberg

The Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

Cori Close isn’t sure how much longer she will be coaching. The responsibilities of coaches have changed a lot in her 33 years in the game, especially in the last few years.

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this,” said Close, of No. 1 seed UCLA. “And I’m just being transparent with you about that. There are so many things that are harder, and we keep losing incredible people on the men’s and the women’s side.”

Between the transfer portal, name, image and likeness, and revenue sharing, coaching

has changed. It’s not just about recruiting players from high school, but also now about keeping a team together each season and guring out how much money each player will make through revenue sharing.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley said she welcomes change and likes the challenge of guring out ways to be still be successful — something she’s excelled at with three national championships in the last nine years.

“When that leaves me, then I know it’s time for me to move on,” the 55-year-old Staley said.

Staley said she’s seen the sport become more transactional the last few years.

“We can try to keep core principles of who we are as coaches and the sanctity of the team,” she said. “For me, I coach from my days being on the Olympic team. That is how I coach. Meaning I try to coach where

the team is the team success. Then we know that individuals make up the success of a team. You deal with each player and have them try to get them in a position where they understand their worth.”

Staley has seen the change the last few years with the additions of NIL.

“NIL has really changed everything. Like it really has changed. I mean, how you have to move day to day. You got to make sure psychologically our kids are in a good place. Mentally, they’re in a good place, and they’re parents,” Staley said. “So you’re actually having to do a lot of work and if you’re not used to that part of it, you know, it will it will run you out of the business.”

Staley relishes the two hours each day that her team practices because nothing else enters the space at that time and she can just focus on coaching.

“The 22 hours beyond that,

you have to go and exhaust yourself and make sure everyone is good from day to day, from week to week and de nitely in the postseason,” Staley said.

The transfer portal was moved this year to open the day after the national championship game, as opposed to during the NCAA Tournament.

“If there’s one thing I would ask of our governing bodies and the NCAA and our administrations, it is please develop infrastructure and boundaries that create an opportunity to have sustained excellence and sustainable pace,” said Close, who is in her 15th season at UCLA. “Otherwise, we are going to continue to lose some of our best coaches, and I do not think our game can a ord to do that.”

Some longtime coaches have stepped down over the past few seasons for a variety of reasons, including for health issues. Others have mulled retirement.

Louisville coach Je Walz didn’t sound close to retirement when the 54-year-old in his 19th season with the Cardinals was told of Close’s comments.

“I’m friends with Cori,” Walz said. “My favorite line, I would tell her, if you don’t like your job, nd a new job. I mean, I’m listening this morning at 4:20 as the workers outside my window at the hotel in the street are working. I mean, you choose your profession. If you don’t like it, nd a new profession.”

“I mean, of course, it’s a lot of work, but we chose to do it and we get compensated for it,” Walz said. “I don’t think anybody is going to feel too sorry for us that you might be tired. I’m tired, too, but who is not?”

Wolverines coach Kim Barnes Arico said coaching fatigue is less about age and more about adaptation.

“A few years ago when all this started to come into play, I knew as a coach and I talked to our players and I talked to our sta , times are changing,” Barnes Arico said. “We need to evolve. We need to grow. We need to step up to the challenges, because if we can’t, the game, the landscape, all of it is going to pass us by.”

this week in history

MLK assassinated, NATO established, U.S. enters WWI, Kurt Kobain dies by suicide

The Associated Press

APRIL 2

1792: Congress passed the Coinage Act, authorizing the creation of the U.S. Mint.

1865: Confederate President Je erson Davis and most of his Cabinet ed Richmond, Virginia, after Union troops broke through Confederate lines at the Third Battle of Petersburg.

1917: President Woodrow Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany, saying, “The world must be made safe for democracy.” (Congress declared war four days later.)

APRIL 3

1860: The rst Pony Express mail riders set out, one heading west from St. Joseph, Missouri, and another traveling east from Sacramento, California.

1882: Outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed in St. Joseph, Missouri, by Robert Ford, a member of James’ gang.

1968: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his nal speech in Memphis, Tennessee, telling striking sanitation workers, “I’ve been to the mountaintop. … I’ve seen the Promised Land.”

APRIL 4

1949: Twelve nations, including the United States, signed the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, D.C., establishing NATO.

1968: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., 39, was

assassinated while standing on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His death sparked unrest in cities across the United States that left 43 people dead and more than 3,000 injured.

1973: The twin towers of New York’s World Trade Center were o cially dedicated.

APRIL 5

1614: Pocahontas, daughter of Powhatan chief Wahunsenacawh (Powhatan), married English settler John Rolfe in the Virginia Colony.

1764: The British Parliament passed the American Revenue Act of 1764, known as the Sugar Act, enforcing duties on sugar and molasses imported into the American colonies.

1887: In Tuscumbia, Alabama, teacher Anne Sullivan helped her deaf-blind pupil Helen Keller understand the word “water,” marking a major breakthrough in Keller’s education.

1994: Nirvana lead singer Kurt Cobain died by suicide at

his home in Seattle at age 27.

APRIL 6

1830: Joseph Smith and followers met in Fayette, New York, to organize the Church of Christ, later known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 1896: The rst modern Olympic Games o cially opened in Athens, Greece.

1917: The United States entered World War I as the House joined the Senate in approving a declaration of war against Germany, which was signed by President Woodrow Wilson.

APRIL 7

1862: Union forces led by Gens. Ulysses S. Grant and Don Carlos Buell defeated Confederate troops at the Battle of Shiloh in Tennessee.

1922: Interior Secretary Albert B. Fall secretly leased U.S. Navy oil reserves to private companies in the scandal later known as Teapot Dome.

1994: A day after the presidents of Rwanda and Burundi were killed in a missile attack, Rwanda’s moderate prime minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana and her husband were murdered, triggering the genocide that followed.

APRIL 8

1820: A farmer on the Greek island of Milos discovered the ancient statue now known as the Venus de Milo.

1864: The U.S. Senate approved the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. (The House passed it in 1865.)

1992: Tennis great Arthur Ashe announced he had AIDS, saying he contracted HIV from a 1983 blood transfusion.

Puth shows o bag of musical tricks on ‘Whatever’s Clever!’

Actor Je Goldblum provides a spoken-word prelude on “Until It Happens To You”

By Elise Ryan The Associated Press

THERE HAVE been some changes in Charlie Puth’s life recently. He got married. He’s a dad. And in the musical shoutout heard ’round the world, Taylor Swift declared that he “should be a bigger artist.”

On “Changes,” the lead single from his fourth album, “Whatever’s Clever!,” he ponders those shifts: “There’s been some changes in our life, oh / I can feel the distance,” he sings. “Space and time, has made everything di erent.”

An eight-member choir backs him up in the song’s latter half, joining Puth’s keys and a steady drum. These layers, while plenty, aren’t heavy. Puth keeps the track buoyant.

That light, playful energy is felt across much of the album releasing Friday (“Beat Yourself Up,” “Washed Up”). Puth and his co-producer BloodPop pull from a Mary Poppins bag of musical tricks — a choir! an orchestra! Kenny G! — to create complex tracks with in uences that range from yacht rock to jazz and R&B, diverting from Puth’s previous pop. Consider the wonky “Until It Happens To You,” which combines the orchestra and choir for

a song about embracing the best of times while anticipating the worst, with a bubbly spoken introduction and interlude by Je Goldblum.

Musically, the outcome is fun, largely because Puth, with his perfect pitch and Berklee College of Music training, has only leaned further into his “Professor Puth” persona, giving listeners the tools to break

Oscars leaving Hollywood for downtown LA

The Academy Awards will now take place at the Peacock Theater

By Andrew Dalton The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — The Oscars are leaving Hollywood.

In 2029, the year the telecast moves from ABC to YouTube, the ceremony itself will move from its longtime home at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood to downtown Los Angeles and the Peacock Theater, 9 miles away. The Academy announced last Thursday that it has reached a 10-year agreement with AEG, which operates the L.A. Live complex where the Peacock Theater sits.

It’s a surprising move given that the Dolby was developed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences itself, expressly as a home for the Oscars. The ceremony has been held there since 2002 (with the exception of the COVID-driven downsized show at Union Station in 2021) and has provided an especially steady home for the Oscars, which have never stayed in a single venue for such a long stretch. The awards bounced between various LA hotels in its early years before moving up to theaters in the mid-1940s.

The downtown Doro -

thy Chandler Pavilion, a ne arts facility that is home to the LA Opera, became heavily identi ed with the Oscars when it hosted the ceremony from 1968 to 1986. The ceremony then alternated between the Chandler and the Shrine Auditorium, next to the University of Southern California, until the long-term move to Hollywood.

The Dolby will continue to host the show as it airs in its nal years on ABC, conclud-

ing with the 100th Academy Awards in 2028.

The Peacock Theater is next to the Crypto.com Arena, home to the Los Angeles Lakers and Kings. The theater has hosted the Emmy Awards nearly every year since 2008 and, in recent years, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies.

The academy says in its announcement that, under its agreement, AEG will make major upgrades to the theater and its tech setup and will

The Hollywood sign is seen prior to the nominations announcement for the 32nd Annual Actor Awards on Jan. 7 in Los Angeles.

down those layers themselves through explanatory TikToks and talk show appearances. But Puth and BloodPop play it safe lyrically throughout the album, often relying on generic platitudes. (“You know everybody cries,” Puth sings on “Cry.” “Cry, cry, cry.”)

And yet, painting in broad strokes has worked before for Puth, and there are moments — when he pushes a simple idea a bit further — where it does here, too: “Love in Exile,” featuring and written with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, is catchy and quotable. “Sideways,” featuring verses and harmonies by Coco Jones, recalls Puth’s early collaborative hits like Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore” with Selena Gomez, with their affecting but not overly complicated lyrics.

If the album is seen as a sort of scrapbook assembled ahead of his next chapter, then ipping back to the rst page reveals Puth knows growth comes with those dreams being rewritten: “Sometimes the wind blows in di erent new directions,” he sings on “Changes.” Where that takes him, we’ll have to see. For now, Puth is embracing his in uences and exing what he’s learned. And that makes for a good time.

“For the 101st Oscars and beyond, the Academy looks forward to closely collaborating with AEG to make L.A. LIVE the perfect backdrop for our global celebration of cinema.”

Bill Kramer and Lynette Howell Taylor, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

“collaborate closely with the Academy to incorporate bespoke design elements needed to accommodate the Oscars ceremony.”

The Peacock Theater, previously known as the Nokia Theatre and Microsoft Theater, opened in 2007, as the then-Staples Center site expanded to become the L.A. Live entertainment complex. It hosted concerts from the Eagles and the Chicks to celebrate its opening.

The theater’s capacity of about 7,000 is about twice that of the Dolby. And its plaza is bigger and more open-air than the Dolby’s Ovation Hollywood complex, which has more of an enclosed shopping mall feeling. Like Hollywood, L.A. Live also has multiple hotels, essential to the logistics of the Oscars. And there is a cinema at the site, though its Regal theaters multiplex lacks the historic patina of the TCL (formerly Grauman’s) Chinese Theatre next to the Dolby on Hollywood Boulevard.

“For the 101st Oscars and beyond, the Academy looks forward to closely collaborating with AEG to make L.A. LIVE the perfect backdrop for our global celebration of cinema,” the academy’s CEO Bill Kramer and its president, Lynette Howell Taylor, said in a joint statement.

famous birthdays this week

Wayne Newton turns 84, Clive Davis celebrates 94, Billy Dee Williams is 89, Patricia Arquette hits 58

THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week:

APRIL 2

Disc jockey Dr. Demento is 85. Actor Linda Hunt is 81. Musician Emmylou Harris is 79.

Actor Christopher Meloni is 65. Tennis Hall of Famer Todd Woodbridge is 55. Actor Adam Rodriguez is 51.

APRIL 3

Actor Marsha Mason is 84. Singer Wayne Newton is 84. Singer Tony Orlando is 82. Singer-songwriter Richard Thompson is 77. Actor Alec Baldwin is 68. Actor David Hyde Pierce is 67. Actor-comedian Eddie Murphy is 65.

APRIL 4

Recording executive Clive Davis is 94. Golf Hall of Famer JoAnne Carner is 87. Actor Craig T. Nelson is 82. Football Hall of Famer John Hannah is 75. TV writer-producer David E. Kelley is 70. TV host-comic Graham Norton is 63. Actor Robert Downey Jr. is 61. Magician David Blaine is 53.

APRIL 5

Actor Michael Moriarty is 85. Actor Max Gail is 83. Singer Agnetha Fältskog (ABBA) is 76. Rock musician Mike McCready (Pearl Jam) is 60. Country musician Pat Green is 54. Musician-producer Pharrell Williams is 53.

APRIL 6

Actor Billy Dee Williams is 89. Film director Barry Levinson is 84. Actor John Ratzenberger is 79. Baseball Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven is 75. Actor Marilu Henner is 74. Actor Michael Rooker is 71. Actor Paul Rudd is 57.

APRIL 7

Country musician Bobby Bare is 91. Former California

Gov. Jerry Brown is 88. Film director Francis Ford Coppola is 87. Musician John Oates is 78. Singer-songwriter Janis Ian is 75. Actor Jackie Chan is 72. Football Hall of Famer Tony Dorsett is 72. Actor Russell Crowe is 62.

APRIL 8

Journalist Seymour Hersh is 89. Songwriter-producer Leon Hu is 84. Rock musician Steve Howe (Yes) is 79. Author Barbara Kingsolver is 71. Guitarist Izzy Stradlin (Guns N’ Roses) is 64. Singer Julian Lennon is 63. Actor Robin Wright is 60. Actor Patricia Arquette is 58.

Two doses of Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Housemaid’ with Sydney Sweeney, Jon Hamm robs

Country singer Charley Crockett drops “Age of the Ram”

The Associated Press

AMANDA SEYFRIED starring in “The Testament of Ann Lee” and Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” returning for Season 3 are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also among the streaming o erings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Jon Hamm is back stealing in his Apple TV series “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Sydney Sweeney teams up with Seyfried for the steamy thriller “The Housemaid,” and Grammy-nominated country singer Charley Crockett o ers his album, “Age of the Ram.” MOVIES TO STREAM

Seyfried probably should have been nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Shakers founder Ann Lee in Mona Fastvold’s audacious and euphoric musical “The Testament of Ann Lee,” which is streaming now on Hulu. “The lm is absolutely not for everyone,” Jocelyn Noveck wrote in her AP review. “But Fastvold has undeniably created something we’ve never quite seen before; speaking of visions, her singular artistic vision lls every frame. And Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Another movie that scored with critics but didn’t necessarily nd a massive audience in theaters was “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” which is available now on Net ix. The zombie lm, directed by Nia DaCosta working o of an Alex Garland script, stars Jack O’Connell and Ralph Fiennes. In his AP review, Mark Kennedy wrote, “The fourth entry in an ever-more engrossing franchise is absolutely bonkers — and a triumph. It mixes dark, queasy disembowelment and laugh-out-loud humor in a way that both subverts the genre and leads a way out of it, too.” For something completely di erent, the Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” starring Jonathan Gro and Daniel Radcli e is also

coming to Net ix on Saturday. The box o ce sensation “The Housemaid” is on Starz. The Paul Feig lm starring Seyfried and Sweeney became a breakout hit in theaters, earning more than $396 million against a $35 million budget. Kennedy wrote in his review that it’s a “delicious, satirical look at the secret depravity of the ultra-rich, but it’s so well constructed that’s it’s not clear who’s naughty or nice. Halfway through, the movie zigs and everything you expected zags.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Grammy-nominated country singer Crockett enters the “Age of the Ram,” co-produced by Shooter Jennings, the third and nal chapter of his “Sagebrush Trilogy.” In true Crockett fashion, it’s equal parts old school country storytelling and forward-thinking future-casting. Singles “Fastest Gun Alive” and “Kentucky Too Long” are good places to start — Crockett’s idiosyncratic voice is all Old West air.

Everyone’s favorite Philadelphia-based, Medieval-obsessed punks Poison Ruin will release a new album, “Hymn from the Hills,” on Friday. Expect more of their classic sound — an inventive intersection of death

rock and chain mail — with increased ferocity. Or, as the album description reads, themes that include “spirits traversing sunless deserts and wilted hillsides, demonic torture objects limning the edges of the psyche, bodies trans gured into Luciferian snakes, Sadean prisoners bound to the screaming silence of abandoned castle towers.” You know, the usual. The great Swedish post-punk band Makthaverskan will release their rst new album since 2021’s “För Allting” on Friday. Titled “Glass and Bones,” the

10-track LP may very well be the best dream pop album of the year so far: Start with “Pity Party” — a ne reintroduction to singer Maja Milner’s idiosyncratic vocal tone and the band’s addictive guitar melodies — and build from there, to the chilly “Black Waters,” to the gothic confessional “Louie” and the lead track “Won’t Wait.” SERIES TO STREAM

Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” is back for Season 3 this week. The show follows for-

“Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Jocelyn Noveck, AP Film Writer

mer “Vanderpump Rules” cast members who traded West Hollywood for life north of Los Angeles, bringing marriages, kids, divorces and drama with them. Kristen Doute, Brittany Cartwright, Jason and Janet Caperna, Luke Broderick, Danny and Nia Booko, and Jesse Lally return. Former “Vanderpump” regulars Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz also join as full-time cast members. Notably absent: Jax Taylor, Cartwright’s ex, who won’t be returning. The season premiere hits Peacock on Thursday.

Hamm is back to stealing from his neighbors. His Apple TV series, “Your Friends & Neighbors,” launches Season 2 on Friday. Hamm plays a suburbanite who steals from his wealthy New York neighbors to maintain his upper-crust lifestyle. Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn and James Marsden also star.

Bravo also adds to its “Real Housewives” franchise with the debut of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” streaming Friday, April 3 on Peacock.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Darwin’s Paradox! looks like a throwback to classic arcade games, in which colorful mascots ran and jumped through tricky 2D landscapes. Darwin is an octopus who’s minding his own business when he’s suddenly ripped out of the ocean and thrown into a junkyard. As he tries to nd his way back home, he stumbles across a conspiracy that “could very well seal the fate of humanity.” Fortunately, Darwin has a big brain to go with all those useful legs. The adventure comes from France’s ZDT Studio, whose founders include the director of the terri c Dishonored series. It launches Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.

Duplin Journal

AgFest brings agriculture to life

AgFest at the University of Mount Olive brought the future to Duplin County with hands-on experiences, industry connections and a closer look at the careers driving one of North Carolina’s largest industries. Turn to A3 for more.

Sheri ’s o ce executes drug, gambling bust

Chinquapin

The Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce Special Operations Division, in coordination with the North Carolina Secretary of State’s O ce, executed a search warrant at Munchies Mini Mart in Chinquapin on March 25, seizing marijuana, psilocybin products, cash, suspected illegal gaming machines and counterfeit merchandise. According to authorities, warrants have been issued for the store’s owner, Ameer Amin Ali Alsumairi, on multiple alleged drug and gambling-related o enses. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the DCSO at 910-296-2150 or the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 910 -372-9202.

Big plans take ight the BRIEF this week

Wallace Christian Academy to add middle school by August

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke

For Duplin Journal

WALLACE Christian Academy (WCA) is expanding to include a middle school starting August 2026.

Growth in enrollment and community support is driving the next phase of expansion The runway expansion is set to begin this fall

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

Tax o ce payment disruption notice

Kenansville

The Duplin County Tax O ce will be unable to process credit and debit card payments from April 24 through May 1 due to a software upgrade. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and use cash or check during this period.

Hospital o ers free childbirth class

Kenansville

ECU Health Duplin

Hospital will o er a free childbirth class on April 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for expectant mothers between 28 and 35 weeks. The session provides hands-on guidance and education on labor and delivery.

$2.00

WALLACE — Exciting developments are underway at the Wallace-Pender Airport, as town leaders and aviation ocials work together to position Wallace as a key player in eastern North Carolina’s growing

“God gave Poston Baptist Church the vision in January 2021 to start a private Christian school in our community,” Headmaster Steve Le Roux said. “Since then, members of the church and the lo -

regional economy. Mayor Pro Tem Francisco Rivas-Diaz, who also serves on the airport commission, says the momentum behind the airport’s expansion re ects a broader vision for the town.

“This isn’t just about aviation,” Rivas-Diaz explained. “It’s about preparing Wallace for the future.”

Farmers face drought, shifting crop prices as planting season begins

An Extension agent says weather, markets and regulations are shaping early decisions

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

AS PLANTING season approaches, local farmers are weighing crop prices, dry conditions and evolving regulations that could shape decisions in the months ahead. Della King, an N.C. Cooperative Extension agent specializing in eld crops, says those factors are already inuencing how growers prepare for the season.

One early indicator this year is crop prices. King says corn

prices may inspire some local farmers to change what they are growing.

“Soybean prices have gone back up, so some may make a switch and reduce some of their corn acreage and plant more soybeans,” King said.

One thing local farmers are hoping for as they gear up to start planting is some rain.

“We’re a little on the dry side,” King said. “So we could stand a little rain, especially since growers are getting ready to gear up and start planting, especially corn.”

King says farmers make a lot of decisions when it comes to improving their yields.

cal community have continued to invest their time, talents, resources, nances, and prayers to help bring this vision to reality.”

WCA has successfully built the school in phases with funding able to pay o each phase as it progresses. Phase one, six elementary school classrooms, was completed in August 2022 for $365,000 and paid in full. Phase two, eight additional elementary school classrooms, was completed in August 2024 for $910,000 and also paid in full. Phase three is the current phase. It plans to build a new middle school building with eight classrooms, four

Town leaders are advancing plans for a major expansion of the Wallace-Pender Airport, a project they say will boost economic growth and improve regional connectivity.

“The commission — working closely with Airport Director Ben Jones and the Wallace Town Council — is moving forward with several major projects,” said Rivas-Diaz.

The next phase of development includes extending the airport’s runway from 4,150 feet to 5,500 feet, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft. According to Jones, construction

could begin as early as August or September and be completed by October without closing the runway.

Following the extension, crews are expected to begin work on a parallel taxiway and a new apron. The taxiway will improve safety by eliminating the need for aircraft to backtrack on the runway. O cials aim to complete those upgrades by April 2027. Plans also call for a new terminal and additional hangars, including 10 T-hangars and two larger corporate or community

“Soybean prices have gone back up, so some may make a switch and reduce some of their corn acreage and plant more soybeans.”

Della King

O

o ces and a conference room by August. So far $500,000 of the $950,000 needed has been raised.

WCA started with 30 students in grades K-2 and has grown to 160 students this year in Pre-K through fth grade. It is currently enrolling for the 2026 -27 school year for grades Pre-K through sixth grade, and enrollment is already up to 210 students.

“Our plan is to continue to add one grade level each year until the school has grown to 12th grade,” Le Roux said.

The Opportunity Scholarship program — which offers nancial assistance for private school tuition — has helped a lot of families attend the school. With a 98% student retention rate, parents and the larger community are proving that Wallace Christian is meeting a need in the community.

Le Roux attributes the school’s retention rate to “smaller classrooms with a teacher-to-student ratio that allows students to get personalized attention in a loving and caring environment.”

THURSDAY APRIL 2

AIRPORT from page A1

hangars. Construction on those facilities is expected to begin after the taxiway and apron are nished, potentially as early as spring 2027.

“Since the terminal and the hangars have to connect to the new ramp, we will have to wait on the construction of the ramp to be completed before we can build hangars,” Jones said, adding that he hopes to begin construction on the new terminal this time next year and the hangars in two to three years. “All these projects connect together, so they have to be done in

PLANTING from page A1

“A lot of that goes back to each individual operation and how they rotate their crops with other crops and what kind of pest issues they’ve been having over the last few years,” she said.

In dealing with the issue of pest control, King says that it’s an area where the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service can be a valuable resource to growers.

“A lot of the farmers turn to us to make sure they keep up with their licenses,” King said.

“For example, with their pest control license, we o er continuing education opportunities for them to earn credits.” King said that within the

order to complete the puzzle.”

Jones said recent road construction has cleared the way for faster progress, with design work for the runway and taxiway about 80% complete and expected to go out for bid in July.

Challenges remain, including potential weather delays during hurricane season. Funding is another key factor. While some grant support is already in place, additional funding will be necessary — especially to accelerate hangar construction.

Local leaders say the investment could bring new jobs and business oppor-

last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released new training that pesticide operators needed to complete to meet the ever-changing Environmental Protection Agency regulations. She said the training takes about an hour and can be completed online by watching a video. The N.C. Cooperative Extension Service has been spreading the word through the farming community to make sure they know about the new required training. During the o season, the Extension Service holds production meetings, King said.

“I had one early in (March) where our small grain specialist came out and talked about

tunities to Wallace within the next three to four years, strengthening the town’s role in eastern North Carolina’s economy.

“Small-town airports are vital economic engines,” said Rivas-Diaz, who believes the long-term payo will be signi cant.

“For rural areas, these airports provide a critical link for emergency medical services, disaster relief, and — most importantly — corporate travel that brings new businesses and jobs to our front door,” he said. “We are being proactive today so that Wallace can thrive tomorrow.”

nitrogen needs for the wheat crop because it was right around the timeframe of doing your nal topdressing with applications of nitrogen.”

King added that they have frequent meetings for farmers so they can remain up to speed on new practices and ways they can perhaps reduce pesticide usage considering the rising costs.

With plowed elds starting to appear around Duplin County, farmers are preparing for the work ahead. Resources like the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service continue to provide guidance for the latest agricultural information. Now they wait for Mother Nature to do her part.

opening for the 2026-27 school year.

contribute to donation drives.

“God has blessed Poston Baptist Church to grow to an average attendance of 300 people on a Sunday, and the church has a thriving children’s ministry and youth program,” Le Roux said.

The host church, Poston Baptist Church, has seen growth as well as a result of the school; several school families joined the church after enrolling their child in the school.

WCA has a lot of support from the larger community as well, and it makes community service an intentional part of its instruction. Throughout the year, students serve at the EBA Charity Rebuild Center, write encouraging cards for shut-ins and church members living in senior communities, visit local nursing homes and

“Through these experiences, our students learn that even small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact,” Le Roux said. Anyone interested in learning more about the school or taking a tour can contact the school o ce at 910 - 665-4135 or visit the school website at wallacechristianacademy.com.

Students saddle up for a day of discovery at AgFest

Volunteers share a lighthearted moment while petting a baby goat during AgFest at the

on

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Workforce, opportunity, and the power of partnership

Community colleges are uniquely positioned to change lives in practical, lasting ways.

AFTER MORE than three decades at Danville Community College, I recently accepted the opportunity to serve as president of James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville. Though new to the area, it is immediately clear that this college sits at the heart of a proud and engaged community. I am very grateful to be here and to begin this next chapter. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to change lives in practical, lasting ways. They serve as both an entry point and a launching pad, whether a student is seeking a degree, learning a trade or advancing in the workforce. That mission is alive and well at JSCC. I have seen it rsthand in classrooms, labs and training facilities where students are gaining the skills

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

needed to succeed in today’s economy. The college’s momentum is evident. A new Workforce Development Center, now nearing completion, will expand training in high-demand elds such as HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems. Partnerships with organizations like East Carolina University are creating seamless pathways for continued education, while investments from groups such as UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina are opening doors for students pursuing careers in health care.

Equally important is the strong support from the community. Local engagement, along with collaboration from partners including Four County Electric Membership Corporation and the Golden LEAF Foundation, re ects a

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just rightwing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, antitrans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

shared commitment to student success and regional growth.

What stands out most, however, is the people. Faculty, sta and students at JSCC bring a level of dedication and pride that de nes the institution. Their work ensures that students are not only prepared for careers but also positioned for long-term success.

As I begin my tenure, I remain focused on a simple goal: strengthening opportunity. By building on a solid foundation and working alongside this community, James Sprunt Community College will continue to serve as a driver of progress for Duplin County and beyond.

Shannon Hair is the president of James Sprunt Community College.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host.(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

James Kenan unveils 719-pound bronze tiger

Years of dedication and fundraising culminate in the long-planned school landmark

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

JAMES KENAN High School

has a new reason to show pride:

A 719-pound bronze tiger has been erected near the agpole in front of the school. The tiger and its concrete base come after years of campaigning and fundraising from the current PTO and Principal Michael Holton.

“When I rst came to James Kenan, I wanted something that would give the school more visual character and improve curb appeal, but it had to be something that spoke to the school spirit of the people inside the building,” Holton said.

“James Kenan High School previously had a tiger displayed on its sign; however, that original piece deteriorated over time due to weather exposure. Our goal was to replace it with a more durable and long-lasting structure,” said Bridgett Jones, PTO president.

Jones said she o cially committed to this vision when her daughter, Ava Jones, started high school four years ago, and they have been “working diligently toward it ever since.”

A small bronze tiger seemed more practical at rst, but taking a multiyear approach changed that goal.

“We realized that by approaching this as a multiyear project, we could create something with a much stronger presence and lasting impact,” Jones said.

Over the past four years, the PTO raised enough funds for the down payment, and they continue to secure the remaining balance with the help of the athletic boosters.

“From the beginning, this project was intended to be a shared e ort, giving the community a sense of ownership. While early interest was modest, enthusiasm grew signi cantly once the tiger arrived on campus,” Jones said.

The larger tiger was sculpted in bronze from Big Bronze Delaware and was crate shipped to the school in November. A smaller bronze tiger was installed near the home goal on Bill Taylor Field in the fall. The alumni Class of 1975 chose to honor its 50th anniversary by donating $2,200 toward a brick base of that tiger.

On March 24, the Class of 1979 came to present a check for $3,100 to the PTO for the large tiger. Out of 179 graduates, 45 donated to the cause — many of whom were present from out of state for the check presentation. The alumni stood with pride taking pictures around the new stat-

Gardenpalooza enchants visitors

Games, music and themed activities highlighted the whimsical event

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

THE GARDENS of Southeastern North Carolina transformed into a whimsical wonderland on Saturday, hosting its rst “Alice in Wonderland” Gardenpalooza. Families explored ower tours, created bouquets, played inventive yard games, and met expert gardener Karen Root, who volunteered her design expertise after earning a professional horticulture de -

gree from the world-renowned Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania.

At the gardens’ rst Gardenpalooza, several people sat and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, commenting on how relaxing it was. Others played yard-game versions of checkers, Jenga and Connect Four. Other popular yard games included cornhole and cro-putt. Cro-putt is a yard game of the owners’ own invention that mixes puttputt golf with croquet. It uses small plant-pot holes to create a golf course throughout the garden and is played with croquet balls and mallets.

Concession stands sold

drinks, re-roasted pretzels and pizza. Light music played throughout the gardens. As it got dark, re pits were lit, and s’mores were sold. At 6 p.m., the lm “Alice in Wonderland” was shown on a large in atable screen in the gardens.

According to the owners, David and Jill Johnson, the gardens are in their fourth year and are “just getting started.”

The Gardenpalooza event was their rst themed event. Next month, they plan to host an event around “Mary Poppins.”

The gardens are an extension behind the Johnson Nursery, which has been in Willard, N.C., since the 1980s.

class of 1979,” Class of 1979 alumnus Susan Frederick said. “At our last reunion, we realized just how many we have lost (34) and somehow knowing and realizing that has brought us even closer. Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger.”

Fellow alumna Suzette Burke added, “James Kenan was our home away from home for four years. Friendships, teachers, and memories were made inside those walls and will be cherished for a lifetime.”

Numerous individuals, local businesses and graduating classes have contributed generously to the tiger beauti cation project.

ue to encourage other classes to get involved and contribute.

Class organizer Doug West used pictures of the event to challenge other classes on social media.

“The Class of ’79 has set the standard for donations to the brass tiger and JK PTO,” West wrote. He challenged other classes to “try to be more generous” and try to beat their number of class participants. “To date, the Class of ’79 has raised the highest amount at $3,200, followed closely by the Class of 1977 with $2,445,” Jones said.

Being a tiger means a lot to James Kenan alumni.

“We had 179 students in the

“I chose to donate to support the JK PTO and to represent the class of ’79,” Burke said. “It’s a win-win donation to help support both in a great way. Our plaque represents all of us — the ones that helped, those that couldn’t at this time, and those that are no longer with us. Our legacy will carry on for years to come.”

Leaving a legacy to future tigers and the larger community is why so many have donated to the project, and the project is not done yet. Names of donors still need to be installed on the pedestals, lights and additional bronze plaques have yet to be added.

Plans for the project also include a plant bed around the large tiger and a concrete walkway from the parking lot that will circle the statue. The total cost of this project is expected to be around $40,000. The PTO will continue accepting donations through May 1.

CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina April 18th, 1–6pm

DUPLIN SPORTS

ED’s Callie Newborn slides under the tag of JK’s Ava Jones during the Panthers’ 10-0 win.

Panthers pounce on Tigers to keep rivalry streak alive

“Our mistakes cost us against a very good softball team.”

Brian Casteen, James Kenan baseball coach

ED scored nine times in the fth and sixth innings to beat JK for 25th consecutive time

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Learning how to win isn’t easy. Especially when facing a time-tested program.

But James Kenan entered last Monday’s rivalry game against East Duplin con dent it could break a long losing streak.

Up 1-0, the Panthers’ bats connected o Tigers starter Shylah Sloan for six fourth-inning runs en route to a 10-0 six-inning mercy rule win in Beulaville.

It was ED’s 25th consecutive victory in the series since 2012. Greg Jenkins, who started coaching the Panthers a de-

cade earlier, topped rst-year coach Brian Casteen, whose team came in on re. They went home humbled with a 7-2 mark.

“Our girls kind of dropped their shoulders and heads a bit in that inning, and it a ected the rest of the game,” Casteen said. “You can’t let a mistake or two get to us. In that spot you have to keep ghting. Our mistakes cost us against a very good softball team.

“We hit the ball, but we left it hanging and they have a good out elders.”

ED improved to 10-1 by both getting to starter Sloan and through the arm of Zoe Cavanaugh and the work of the Panthers’ defense behind her.

“James Kenan is more disciplined and better than last year,” Jenkins said. “But Zoe kept them o balance and used their aggressiveness against them. And our defense was

stout. But Zoe spins it and puts it where she wants to.

“We started seeing Ava better toward the end of the second time we saw her,” added Jenkins, whose senior hurler allowed just two hits — singles to Peyton Ezzell and Jourdan Joe. “That third time was when we were able to bust it open.”

ED led 1-0 when Ava Noble singled and scored in the rst.

Leado hitter Karsyn Parker started the uprising in the fourth with a walk.

Parker then tripled, and consecutive singles by Turner, Ansley Noble and Emma Wallace and a few miscues by the Tigers helped make it 7-0.

Two innings later, Parker and Noble ripped hits to start a push to end the game early.

ED’s margin of victory in the previous 24 games was 350-57 with the average score being at

See RIVALRY, page B4

SOFTBALL ROUNDUP

Holmes, Spence, Fulghum rally Rebels past 7A Pirates

ND overcame a 6-2 de cit with a ve-run outburst in the sixth to push past Topsail

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — It was the “Rebel attitude” that head coach Jaime Kylis Higginbotham noticed following a 10-6 win over 7A Topsail.

“We fought back,” said Higginbotham. “We never gave in. We competed. It was an awesome win. This is Rebel softball.”

And the most signi cant North Duplin victory since beating Rosewood on the rst day of May 2025 to capture the Carolina Conference regular season title.

Freshman Wyllow Holmes went 4 for 4, scoring twice and driving in a pair of runs. Ady Spence had three RBIs in ND’s decisive ve-run sixth, and Lilly Fulghum did a bit of everything from pitching and getting hit by a pitch to singling, driving in a run and scoring.

“It was a great win, but we still have to play cleaner defensively,” said Higginbotham, whose club improved to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the league with a revenge date against East Columbus on tap this week.

Holmes, with 10 hits in her rst 18 plate appearances, has used her speed to augment the rest of her game.

“She’s fast, can bunt, slap hit and is going to put the ball in play,” Higginbotham said. “She’s also small and quick enough that defenses rush with her.”

Spence was the key hitter in the sixth when the game took a permanent swing in the Rebels’ direction, as an overthrow by the Pirates (10-3) cleared the bases.

“We were blessed to have one of the best teams in one of the best conferences in the state take the time to come to little 2A school,” Higginbotham said in lauding Pirates’ coach Danielle Parks. “She coaches that team and leads that program so well.”

The win got the Rebels back on track following a 14-2 loss to East Columbus on March 10 that had to rock ND’s con dence.

“I feel like we’re behind, but I also feel I say that every year at this time,” Higginbotham said. “We’re still trying to nd the pieces, and more than ever it’s come down to how we play defensively because

See SOFTBALL, page B4

Contributions all over diamond key Panthers’ surge

One-loss ED seems prepared for a more challenging second-half schedule

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Halfway through the season, the East Duplin baseball team’s formula for success has been getting contributions from veterans such as JP Murphy, Sawyer Marshburn, Jack Tuck, Colten Holmes and Gavin Holmes, and newcomers in Braxton Bedding eld, Brayden Jones and Hayes Lanier.

To date, nearly every player could step outside the Panthers’ dugout for an “encore of applause” at one point or more.

While there have been down moments, entering the Easter break and into the thick of ECC play, the Panthers have fought hard to be 8-1. It’s the best start for a Brandon Thipgen-coached team since ED won its rst 24 games in 2022.

“We’re very fortunate to be where we are and still looking to get better,” said Thigpen, who has guided the Panthers to a 139 - 60 mark since 2017. “We have to keep doing what we’ve been doing and do it better. It only gets harder from here. We’ve stacked

some good days together.”

A two-game sweep of Trask provided a week of satisfaction for ED before it heads into the holiday break with clashes against Rosewood, North Lenoir and Charles B. Aycock over the course of four days.

“We have to be better against those teams, eliminate free passes (walks) and get ahead and work ahead of hitters,” Thigpen said.

Each game Thigpen has used a combination of Murphy (3-1, 1.33 ERA 21 innings), Silas Jarman, (2-1, 2.77, 172⁄3 innings) Jones (2-0, 1.11 in 122⁄3 frames) and Holmes (1-0, 1.22,

See PANTHERS, page B3

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Kinzley Sloan

James Kenan, softball

Kinzley Sloan is proving she’s not a uke.

The James Kenan sophomore has belted a Tigers-high 20 hits this spring to sport a .556 average. She has hit eight doubles and driven in 14 runs, tying her for the team lead in extra-base hits and RBIs. She is also JK’s leader in another important statistic: runs (17).

Sloan burst onto the scene in 2025 by hitting .552 with four doubles, three triples and a home run.

She is one reason JK (7-2) is o to one of its best starts in two decades.

Panthers starting to turn it around, Rebels on upswing

ED and ND are making strides to contend, while JK and WRH set to wage the rst of two regular season battles

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Good things happen to the East Duplin soccer team with a healthy Anamaire Rodriguez.

The junior striker, who might be the fastest female soccer player in Panthers history, had four goals last week during a 7-3 win over Trask.

Joselin Aguilar, Melanie Reyes and Sosa Hernandez added scores as ED won for the third time in four matches. Hernandez had three assists

The Panthers dominated early, scoring ve times in the opening half to go in front 5-1.

“Anamarie had a big night,” said head coach Joey Jones. “She’s getting her legs under her after returning (from a knee injury). She’s getting stronger.”

“Zoe (Cavanaugh) has done a great job in the middle for us, yet we have to have better play from our center mids, and Kaleigh Chase and Sosa (Hernandez) are coming on. Melanie (Reyes) is doing a good job, she’s just not left-footed in that position. I sometime still feel we are missing Miranda (Roblero, Ms. Soccer in 2025).”

Jones said ED has played better after falling to the Titans 2-1 early in the week and beating Charles B. Aycock 4-2 in the middle of its two-match ECC pairing.

“We just couldn’t nd the net with a lot of shots the rst time against Trask,” Jones said. “The ball was probably in front of their goal 75% of the time. We also played a pretty good match against Aycock, doing things we like to do.”

Rodrigues, Aguilar and Tabor Holley scored in the triumph over the 5A Golden Falcons.

Rebels new learning curve: Winning tones

Winning soccer games is new to North Duplin, though it would be hard to see that looking at the Rebels’ 6-1 record.

ND is three wins from the most wins in its short history and nally playing in a conference where it is on somewhat equal footing with the six other teams in the Carolina 1A/2A Conference.

The Rebels, who went 8-7 last season for the best mark in school history, do not have a senior on their roster.

Freshman Carrly Strickland leads the team in goals with 11, which came from 19 direct shots on the goal.

Junior Sasha Arguijo has eight on 14 shots, while classmate Tristen Stemmler has four cage ringers o 11 targets. Stemmler’s 13 goals in 2025 paced ND.

During a 10-0 triumph over West Columbus last week

Strickland, Arguijo and sophomore Abby Rose all recorded hat tricks. Stemmler also connected and Roselin Orozco, who has three goals this spring, had two assists.

Strickland struck twice later in the week during a 3-0 win over Hobbton. Ivet Campos had a goal and Arguijo an assist.

How good are the Rebels? Or better yet how good is ND’s competition?

ND is improving rapidly, while its foes this spring have amassed a 21-39-3 record.

The Rebels’ one loss was to CC frontrunner Union. The two schools will have a rematch April 14 in Calypso. Union won the rst match 2-1 in Rose Hill Township on March 18.

ND was winless in 2021 and followed it up with two, four and eight wins in the next three seasons.

Tigers play well during two tough losses

James Kenan didn’t embarrass themselves in losses to Clinton (4-1) and Princeton (2- 0) last week and, in fact, may have stepped up its play from the past.

Aleyah Wilson scored o a pass from Yaneidi Cruz in the Tigers’ setback to the Dark Horses.

“I thought we competed pretty well with them,” said head coach Kenny Williams.

“We know they’re always a top program in our region, so it’s a good gauge to see where we are, and I feel the girls showed that we are on the right track. But there is still a lot of growing to do. Defensively, we gave them a few too many corners and direct kicks.

“O ensively, we’re playing well from box to box, now we just need to get better at nishing against the better teams.”

Williams said he likes the development of sophomores Cruz, Josselyn Gomez, Anareli Avila and Ashley Gutierrez, and he felt they each had some big “grow up” moments over the last few weeks, especial-

ly with Arely Patino still out. Cruz especially has become a silent leader and glue piece with her play.

The next night, JK and Princeton played to a scoreless rst half. Nine minutes into the second half, Makenna Ho man scored.

JK has a chance to tie it around the 22-minute mark on a direct kick by Cruz that goalie Emmie Allison snagged in the right corner of the net.

“I’m so proud of my girls for how hard they played, especially on the second night of a tough back to back,” Williams said. “We really did have solid stretches of passing and ball control and gave ourselves opportunities to get the lead.

“Two tremendous kicks by really good players is what it took to beat us.”

JK and WRH were slated to square o early this week for second place in the Swine Valley.

Bulldogs run over Rosewood, Gators

Wallace-Rose Hill knows how to come back from a loss, three times winning after dropping consecutive matches.

The streak went to three wins in four matches as the Bulldogs responded to a 5-0 setback to Lejeune with wins over Spring Creek and Rosewood.

It put WRH (5-5, 4-1) in position to play JK early this week for outright second place in the Swine Valley Conference.

Gabby Debman, Yaslin Melendez and Bayleen Flores did the prep work for the matchup.

Debman and Flores each netted a pair of goals during a 4-0 conquest of the Eagles, with Angela Rosales and Kaylee Guzman dishing out assists.

WRH went in front 2-0 at halftime, and freshman goalie Gissele Lincona had to make just ve saves for the Bulldogs’ second shutout of the spring.

Two days earlier, Debman, Flores and Melendez scored in a 4-1 triumph over the Gators.

Anamarie Rodriguez îs regaining her speed and agility following a knee injury.

Crusaders, Rebels, Bulldogs look for balance

Harrells Christian, Wallace-Rose Hill and North Duplin brace for crunch time

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

HARRELLS — Balance, please.

Not too much, nor too little. And include a full deck of baseball cards with hitting, pitching, defense and hustle as face cards.

That’s what Harrells Christian Academy, North Duplin and Wallace-Rose Hill are striving for as the rst half of the spring season comes to a conclusion. James Kenan, meanwhile, might just want to recharge.

Here’s a few baseball gems from last week.

Crusaders drop two to Pats

HCA won six of its rst seven games before getting two at tires during 13-3 and 15-3 losses to Faith Christian during a NCISAA Coastal Plain Conference two-game series last week.

The Patriots (8-2, 3-0) limited the Crusaders to single hits by Peyton Gomez and Drake Smith, which played into runs being scored by Avery Hall, Reid Strickland and Davis Rogers.

The Patriots were ahead 9-0 after two innings before eventually hit the lucky 13 number in after ve complete. Ashton Lascallette and Ramsey Ward combined for ve hits and ve RBIs

Gomez, Hall, Jesse Smith and Collin Cole punched hits in the second game, yet it was Colson Gay’s three hits and four RBIs that paced Faith’s 15-hit attack.

HCA (6-3, 2-3) has a two-game set against Rocky Mount (3-4, 2-0) this week

PANTHERS from page B1

one save in 101⁄3 innings). Jarman and Murphy each have seven appearances, Jones and Holmes each have ve.

“JP’s been really good, especially given he’s thrown two times a week,” Thigpen said. “As a sta , we’re doing great things in a number of areas.”

ED’s pitcher has struck out 63 and walked 36 in 66 innings.

“Defensively, we’re about making all the routine plays, and that goes back to trusting our pitchers to throw strikes. We’re taking care of the ball defensively.

“It’s easy to sweep things under the rug when you are winning. It hides a lot of things you are doing wrong.”

Little went astray during an 11-4 win over the Titans early last week.

Marshburn scorched three hits and drove in two. Lanier had two hits and three RBIs. Murphy had a hit, two walks, drove in a run and scored twice.

Gavin Holmes, an all-state player from a year ago, and Bedding eld each posted a hit and scored twice.

Jones, a freshman, didn’t allow a hit in four innings, whiing ve and walking one in Rocky Point.

Three nights later, ED trailed by a run before plating four runs in the sixth for a 7-4 win in Beulaville.

and will then play three games April 8-10 in the Clinton Easter Tournament.

Rebels look for revenge against Gators

It’s been a season of either a big win or a big loss for North Duplin (3-4, 2-3).

An 11-0 romp over Carolina Conference foe West Columbus was an example of the former.

Garris Warren, Cole Grady and Garrett Stevens each drove in a pair of runs, and Noah Price had a single, two doubles and scored twice.

Noa Quintanilla’s single and two walks also kept Rebels moving around the bases.

Holmes, who is second in Duplin County with a .583 mark, had two hits and scored three times. Marshburn (.500), who has been the starting catcher for three-plus seasons, had a single, two doubles and knocked in three.

“Gavin and Sawyer are on re,” Thigpen said. “And a lot of other guys are trending in the right direction, and we’ll need that kind of production. We’ve got to get it done one through nine (in the order).”

ED has done that with regularity so far and with any luck could be unbeaten. Its lone loss was 7-6 in eight innings to 6A Jacksonville (5-3).

Tuck (.333), Colten Holmes (.261), Lanier (.364), Jones (.164) and Bedding eld (.200) each had an RBI against Trask, while Luke Hall (.333) and Murphy (.264) had hits.

Six players have seven or more RBIs, and seven have six or more hits. That and 60 walks has ED hitting .316.

After the holiday break, the Panthers have key two-game sets with ECC foes Clinton (7- 4, 2-2), Pender (0-9, 0-4) and South Lenoir (8-0, 4-0), the No. 1 RPI school in the state in 3A. ED is No. 5 statewide in 4A. “We’ve not reached our ceiling, which is a good sign,” Thigpen said. “Our two-out hitting has been good and we’ve had productive at-bats. I still believe we can hit better.”

ND is seeking revenge this week from a 14-13 loss to East Columbus, the lone one-run game of the spring for the Rebels.

Otherwise, it’s been 10-1 and 18-6 setbacks and 11-0 and 36-0 victories.

ND’s other eye at getting even comes after a 3-1 loss to Hobbton.

Bulldogs pop Gators to snap three-game skid

Hayden Lovette and Jerman Ayllon each had three hits and combined to drive in three runs as Wallace-Rose Hill stumped Spring Creek 18-8. Landen Berring went 2 of 4 and drove in three runs, while Luke Jackson added a pair of hits and scored four times.

Gray James pitched three innings, allowing a run while whi ng six and walking three. Landen Smith hurled two frames as WRH improved to 5-6 overall and 2-3 in Swine Valley Conference play.

Two days later, Rosewood (9-2, 4-1) roughed up the Bulldogs 14-2. But it was a 6-2 affair heading into the fth when the Eagles exploded for eight runs.

SOFTBALL from page B1

we have three completely di erent pitchers and maybe a fourth. We’re just not playing the same without Lilly at shortstop. Right now, we’re way closer o ensively than we are defensively. We need to gure out the where the magic is with three pitchers.”

Fulghum was in the circle for ve innings and Higginbotham’s daughter Gracie two frames while adding a single, double, two scores and a run batted in. Neither gave up an earned run. ND won the error game with six, but ve from Topsail was a denite push for the Rebels’ o ense.

Returning senior starter Marissa Bernal and freshman Sara Smith each lashed a hit and scored.

Topsail has leads of 2-0, 4-2 and 6-2 behind the bats of Lauren Teribury and Mae Rimel, who combined for ve of the Pirates’ seven hits.

ND’s o ense is averaging 11 runs per game, though it is yielding almost six. Higginbotham is hoping the bottom of the order, with less experienced players, will come around.

“If you can hit the ball, we’ll make a spot for you,” she said. “Our loss to East Columbus was our third game, and we didn’t hit the ball, didn’t play well and got called out for our play in the eld.”

After playing the Gators (8-2, 5-0) for a second time, ND likely won’t be tested again until an April 24 trip to face unbeaten Pender (10-0). CC foes East Bladen (5-5, 3-1), Lakewood (3-8, 1-3), Union (4-7, 0-5) and West Columbus (2-7, 2-3) do not appear have repower to compete against ND and other top teams in the 2A East.

Bulldogs walk-o sends Eagles eeing from Duplin County

Isabella Parker’s two doubles knocked in four runs, while Mattie Gavin and Maggie Boone each laced two hits and had a

pair of RBIs as Wallace-Rose Hill beat Rosewood 7-6.

Payton Tyndall went the distance in the circle, striking out ve and walking two while allowing three earned runs.

WRH (5-6, 4-1) trailed 4-2 in the fth before scoring four times to go in front by two runs in the sixth. Kylie Hu man drove in three runs for Rosewood (4-4, 2-3), which hasn’t lived up to its advanced billing following a 19-5 season in 2025.

The Bulldogs’ second win in a row was a prep for a rivalry matchup this week against James Kenan (7-1, 4-1).

Crusaders drop extra-innings a air

The sting of a walk-o loss foiled an otherwise solid game for Harrells Christian Academy during a 4-3, nine-inning setback to Faith Christian.

Makenzie Jackson had three hits, Mary Willow Rumbold two base knocks, and Emory Patram reached base three times and drove in two runs. Breelyn Peed tripled and scored.

HCA trailed throughout the game until plating two runs in the sixth to tie it at 3-3.

Three days later in the series rematch, Jackson, Patram and Savannah Stevens got the lone Crusaders hits in an 11-0 loss. Payton Whitley, Kate Camp and Skylar Powers each drove in two runs for the Patriots (6-2, 4-1 Coastal Plain 3A/2A Conference).

HCA (5-4, 1-4) has a two-game league series against Rocky Mount (5-2, 1-4) this week and also a rematch against Wayne Christian (7-1, 2-1), which beat the Crusaders 5-0 on March 10.

Panthers split with Titans, slip past Scorpions

Down to its nal three outs, East Duplin scored twice in the home half of the seventh for a 3-2 win over Trask to avenge a 4-3 loss two days earlier.

Zoe Turner had three RBIs, and freshmen Lorena Rodriguez

Look for Makenzie Jackson (1) to be a star at HCA for the next four seasons.

and Ansley Hunter each had two hits while combining to plate three runs.

Junior Karsyn Parker picked up her second career win in the circle by scattering seven hits over seven frames.

Ava Noble stroked a single, triple and home run and drove in three runs when the Panthers nipped Trask 4-3. Turner and Leighton Davis had doubles, while Parker singled and scored.

Callie Mewborn ripped three hits and drove in two runs, and Noble and Sophia Jones added run-scoring hits as ED (9-1) beat the Scorpions 4-2.

Turner (4-0) picked up the win. To the start of this week Turner (241⁄3 innings), Sophie Davis (261⁄3) and Parker (13) have walked only 11 hitters.

Tigers rip Dark Horses, Patriots

James Kenan blasted its way to 34 runs in 10 innings last week during mercy-rule wins over Clinton and Princeton.

Sadie Casteen drove in ve runs with three hits and Kinzley Sloan four runs with a single and two doubles during a 22-4 slaughter of the Bulldogs in Princeton.

Ava Jones and Scarlett Deluca each knocked in a pair.

Earlier last week, Shylah Sloan had three run-scoring hits that brough in ve runs and Jourdan Joe three hits in four trips and four RBIs as JK (7-1, 4-1) blanked Clinton 10-0.

The Tigers have averaged 14.3 runs and tacked up 10 or more six times in eight games.

JK played once-beaten East Duplin on Monday of this week. See B1 for the story.

ED (5-6, 3-1) will face its ECC sti est competition when it returns from its Easter break as Clinton (10-2-1) is on the docket for matches on April 14 and April 17.

Another match of interest is a May 1 encounter against Princeton (8-1-2), the top team in the Swine Valley 2A/3A Conference.

RIVALRY from page B1

a mercy-rule level — 14.1 to 2.5. The tightest game during this span was a 3-2 verdict in 2022. JK lost to ED three times in 2016, falling 29-9, 21-0 and 17-0. So JK’s current team has cut down the distance between the Tigers and some of the best teams around. The Tigers are still in the running in the Swine Valley Conference title and were to face their crosstown 3A rival WRH a day after losing to the Panthers.

ED marches forward to a tough stretch during the Easter break that features confrontations against 7A schools Topsail, D.H. Conley and North Brunswick. And Jenkins (374-172) is 26 wins from another milestone.

NOTICES

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NC - WAKE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE, SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Superior Court File No. 25CV043993910 NC Licensing Board for General Contractors, Plainti , v. Boyd Franklin “Frank” Harrelson t/a Harrelson & Son, Defendant. To: BOYD FRANKLIN “BOYD” HARRELSON An Alias & Pluries Civil Summons in 25CV043993-910 was issued by the above-referenced Court on February 19, 2026, with endorsement of March 9, 2026. A Complaint and Motion Application for Preliminary and Permanent Injunction was led with the Court on December 8, 2025, by the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors (the “Board”). The nature of the action is to determine whether Defendant violated N.C.G.S. 8713 by engaging in the practice of general contracting without being properly licensed by the Board. A hearing is scheduled for the session beginning May 4, at 9:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, at the General Court of Justice, Superior Court Division, Wake County Courthouse, 316 Fayetteville St., Raleigh, NC. You are required to make defense to the above pleading within forty (40) days after March 19, 2026. Evidence will be presented in support of the complaint that you have violated the laws set forth above and a request will be made for the Court to enter an order for a preliminary injunction against you. By: Creighton Knight, Attorney, Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo, LLP, 2710 Wycli Rd., Ste 220 Raleigh, NC 27607.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED’s Zoe Cavanaugh limited JK’s explosive lineup to two hits.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#26E000108-300

The undersigned DOUGLAS MYRON MATTHEWS, having quali ed on the 17TH Day of MARCH 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of DAVID CHARLES MATTHEWS deceased, of Duplin County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 26TH Day OF JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 26TH DAY OF MARCH 2026. DOUGLAS MYRON MATTHEWS, ADMINISTRATOR 3966 HAITHCOCK RD. RALEIGH, NC 27604 Run dates: M26,A2,9,16p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#26E000120-300

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF TEACHEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

FOR CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTING TOWN HOME ORDINANCE AND APPROVING TOWN HOME OVERLAY ZONE

The public will take notice that the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Teachey has called a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on April 13, 2026 at the Town Hall for the purpose of considering to adopt the Town Home Ordinance and approving a Town Home Overlay Zone of Parcel #09-5554-, Book 2110 Pg 1-2. Also known as: Located in Island Creek Township, Duplin County, North Carolina.

Being all of Tract B containing 9.770 acres as shown on map entitled “Type A Expedited Minor Subdivision for Relentless Ventures, LLC of Duplin County Parcel # 09-5554” recorded in Map Book 36 Page 366 of the Duplin County Registry.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter you can contact The Teachey Town Hall by phone 910-285-7564 or by mail at P.O. Box 145 Teachey NC 28464.

Morgan Jacobs – Town Clerk Town of Teachey, N.C.

TOWN OF KENANSVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Anyone with comments or questions concerning this matter may attend the public hearing to speak on the matter. To obtain further information and view a copy of the map identifying the subject properties, you may do so by calling 910-296-0369 or visit the Kenansville Town Hall. This 26th day of March 2026. Anna West, Town Manager Town of Kenansville

As per N.C.G.S. 160A-364, the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Kenansville has scheduled a public hearing on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Hall located at 141 Routledge Road, Kenansville, N.C. 28349 to receive public comment on the following zoning matter: The Town of Kenansville has received a request to consider extending the manufactured housing overlay to include the property on the right side of N Church Street beginning at the corner of Mallard and N Church Street and ending at the corner of Seminary and N Church Street. The request will include the following parcel numbers: 13-2078, 13-1195, 13-E061, 13-7, 13-559, 13-1657, 13-509, 13-4, 13-2, 13-3, 13-5, 13-6, 13-1996, 13-677, 13-488, 13-3102, 13-2651, 13-2653, 13-1763, 13-550, 13-1196, 13-1770, 13-1753, 13-555, 13-1629, 13-1655, 13-1095, 13-1727, 8925987

NOTICE

2nd meeting – Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 2:00 pm

for all meetings of the Board of Equalization and Review to be held at the above stated location:

The Board expects to adjourn on May 21, 2026. In the event of earlier or later adjournment, notice to that e ect will be published in this newspaper. Gary M. Rose Clerk to the Board of E&R

obituaries

Delois Oxendine Kenan

Oct. 2, 1948 – March 20, 2026

Delois Oxendine Kenan, 77, of Warsaw, NC, passed away on March 20, 2026. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on March 28, 2026, at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw, NC. Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Mathis Cemetery in Warsaw.

Rev. Eugene Harris Alexander

July 18, 1939 –March 24, 2026

Calypso- It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Eugene H. Alexander, age 86, who answered the Master’s call to bid from earth to eternity at First Health Moore Regional. Mr. Alexander will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Please join us in prayer for the family as they make the nal arrangements for their loved one. “Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.” There will be a Memorial Celebration, Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Goldsboro Raleigh District Assembly, 211 W. Hooks River Road, Goldsboro, NC 27530.

Cleo Rowe

May 13, 1935 –March 24, 2026

Goldsboro- Ms. Cleo Rowe, age 90, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by family and love. She was a warrior who endured much with grace, and we invite you to honor the remarkable legacy she leaves behind. The arrangements are currently incomplete but will be announced at a later date. There will be a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. James Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ, 514 Memorial Church Road, Fremont, NC, with a viewing from 9:3010:50 a.m. She will be laid to rest, joining her husband, at the Eastern Carolina Veteran Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, NC. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to the Christian Women Fellowship at St. James Church of Christ, Fremont, by texting “Give514” to (919) 420-3447.

Elwood Kevin Grady

May 22, 1976 –March 28, 2026

Elwood Kevin Grady, a ectionately known as “Kevin,” passed away Saturday afternoon, March 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Lenoir County to the late Bruce and Carol Grady.

Kevin is survived by his siblings, Deanna Grady and Bennie Grady (Lori). He is also survived by his niece, Emily Cook (Zachery), nephew Thomas Hinnant (deceased) and greatnephew, Spencer Cook, of Florida; along with his extended family, including Sonya Locklear, Renee Locklear (Joshua and Cami) and many others who were part of his life from the beginning.

He was deeply loved by his extended family, including Uncle John and Aunt Edna Taylor; Beverly (James); Amanda (Je ); JC; Taylor; and Connor Mac, all of whom held a very special place in his heart. He is also survived by Uncle Allen Grady (Diane), along with Tina and Terrie.

Kevin had a deep love for music, especially playing the drums at his church (WRHC), as well as during spontaneous jam sessions at Bev’s house with Connor. By Beverly’s side, he shared a bond that was truly incomparable—they understood each other e ortlessly and could always anticipate one another’s next move. Together, they played in perfect harmony, creating something special for all who listened. Kevin was not only a dedicated musician for the church, but also Beverly’s forever drummer. His absence leaves a void that can never be lled.

Kevin shared an unbreakable bond with his brother Bennie. They were truly inseparable—side by side through every season of life. Bennie was Kevin’s hero and his best friend. Their connection went beyond words, built on love, loyalty and a lifetime of shared memories.

From his younger years working in the tobacco elds to spending much of his life traveling the highways of our great country as a long-distance truck driver, Kevin lived a life de ned by hard work and dedication. He later made the decision to come o the road and pursue a career in the medical eld.

His nal and most cherished role was with MedEx Medical Transportation of Wayne County, where he took great pride in helping others, until his health no longer allowed him to continue working.

Throughout his life’s journey and all the places he traveled, Kevin formed many lifelong friendships with people he deeply cherished.

He loved the Lord, his family, and his friends deeply, and he always went out of his way to help others whenever he could. He never liked to see anyone upset and was known for lifting spirits with his humor—even if it meant laughing at himself.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful ones.”

— Psalm 116:15

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 4, at 1 p.m. at West Richlands Holiness Church. Burial will follow, and the family invites everyone to return to the church afterward for a meal and time of fellowship.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who supported and loved Kevin throughout his entire life. We nd comfort in knowing he is no longer su ering and is now at peace.

A funeral service will be Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 1 p.m. at West Richlands Holiness Church at 612 Luther Banks Road in Richlands. Interment will be at Taylor Family Cemetery on Wagon Ford Road in Pink Hill. Visitation will take place after the interment.

Ronald “Ronnie” Morris Boone

Aug. 23, 1948 –March 25, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family of Ronald M. Boone, age 77, of Wallace and Topsail Island, NC, announces his

April 13, 1969 –March 24, 2026

William Connell Chestnutt passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at his home.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Norwood Chestnutt and Betty Chestnutt Payne. As well as his brother, Larry Chestnutt William Connell Chestnutt was a loving and dedicated son, brother, father and grandfather. He was a ectionately known by his grandchildren (Shane, Aleeyah, Colton, Ivy, and Violet) as “Big Daddy”. He was full of laughter and song and known to make a “loud and joyful noise,” which is something he inherited from his father, Norwood. He cherished the time he spent with the Magnolia Baptist Praise and Worship Team. His children will always fondly remember the joy that singing brought him, especially when singing for the Lord.

He grew up in Warsaw, NC, and later in life moved to Marshall, NC, devoting his time to care for his mother and stepfather. He treasured the time spent with them and being closer to his sister, Holly. William delighted in being a “Mountain Man” and found peace in spending time in nature. Watching wildlife with his beloved dog, Ladybug, and enjoying his slice of Heaven by the creek brought him so much joy. In 2024, he returned to Warsaw to be nearer to his children and grandchildren. He also cherished being near his aunt Inez Rouse, with whom he shared a special bond. Above all, he loved his family. When his children were younger, he found so much joy in playing with them like the “big kid” he was. He rediscovered that joy later in life with his grandchildren. He treasured time spent gol ng with his sons and in his newfound hobbies of riding his four-wheeler and dirt bike. His children joked that you couldn’t teach an old dog new tricks, but he proved them wrong.

He will be remembered for his laughter and ability to bring joy to those who knew him. For his adventurous spirit, his generous heart, and for instilling a love for the Lord and family in his children’s hearts.

We love you Daddy.

He is survived by sons Spencer Chestnutt (Kayla Hicks) and Ronnie Chestnutt, both of Warsaw, NC; daughters Brooke Chestnutt Tilley (Wesley), of Mount Olive, NC, and Nicole Chestnutt (Taylor White), of Warsaw, NC; sister Holly Chestnutt McCurry (Steve), of Asheville, NC; aunts Inez Rouse, of Magnolia, NC, and Ellen Rouse Straub, of Charleston, SC.

All services are incomplete at this time.

SPONSORED BY

QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

passing on March 25, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice, Wilmington, NC. Ronnie is survived by his wife of 57 years Connie; daughter Tina Nestor and husband Craig of North Charleston, SC; daughter Hollie Humphreys and husband Chris of Hampstead, NC; granddaughter Caitlyn Johnson (Tyler) of Summerville, SC; grandson Clayton Nestor (Savannah) of Midlothian, VA; granddaughter Lillie Boone Humphreys of Hampstead, NC; great grandson Brady Johnson of Summerville, SC; sister Sandra Boone Johnson of Raleigh, NC; brother Todd Boone of Durham, NC; and extended family and friends that loved and respected him. After graduating from WallaceRose Hill High School, Teachey, NC, he served in the Army National Guard for seven years. In 1972, he established Boone

Sept. 27, 1946 –March 22, 2026

David Walker Canady, 79, of Wallace, left his earthly life for his eternal home in Heaven on Sunday, March 22, 2026. He was born on September 27, 1946, in Robeson County, the son of the late Margaret Neal Hodges. He is also preceded in death by his brother Charles Thomas “Tom” Cook. David proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was a dedicated member of United Christian Fellowship Church in Wallace, where he served as church treasurer, sang in the choir, and served on numerous committees throughout the years.

Surviving to cherish his memory is his best friend and loving wife of 20 years Evelyn Myers Canady; his son Will Canady and wife Katie of Wallace; daughters Shannon Barber and husband Philip of Wallace and Samantha Wilhoit of Lake Tillery, North Carolina; grandchildren Kensley Blanchard, Jase Blanchard, Channing Wilhoit, Wyatt Wilhoit, Maddox Wilhoit and Daxton Wilhoit; brothers Wayne Canady and wife Phyllis of Hampstead, James Canady and wife Louise of Wilmington and Neal Cook and wife Dana of Hampstead; sisters Melvinia Hester of Sanford and Darlene Spencer and husband David of Salt Lake City, Utah; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved David dearly.

David was a devoted husband and caring father, grandfather and brother. He was a man who loved his family with all his heart and was always there for them. Being an avid Trump supporter and an army veteran, David was a true American. He enjoyed all sports and was a diehard Tar Heel fan. David enjoyed NASCAR and made sure he watched the race every Sunday after church. He was a man of great integrity and honor. His keen sense of humor and charitable spirit helped him cultivate enduring friendships through the years that sustained him through the dark days of his illness. His friends and family are comforted knowing that he has moved on from this life to the fuller one he now has with God through eternity. David will surely be missed, but he will never be forgotten.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with Reverend Calvin Leavitte and Reverend Buddy Dowd o ciating. The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m., one hour prior to the service, at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 25. Burial will follow the service at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha. In lieu of owers, please make donations to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation,1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401, or online at lifecare.org.

Refrigeration, Inc. and was President until his retirement in 2015. Ronnie was a member of First Baptist Church of Wallace and was blessed to serve on various committees as well as sang in the choir. He was a member of the Wallace Fire Department for 22 years, with sic of those years as Assistant Fire Chief. Ronnie considered it an honor to serve as the Heating and Air Contractor Member on the NC State Board of Examiners from 2004 to 2011; two of those years as Vice Chairman and one year as Chairman. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the River Landing Clubhouse, 120 Clubhouse Drive, Wallace, NC. The family requests that those who wish to express condolences consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Ronnie’s name.

Sylvia Ellis Barnes

Dec. 16, 1947 –March 26, 2026

Goldsboro- It is with profound sadness to announce the passing of Ms. Sylvia Ellis Barnes, age 78, who was called from labor to reward on March 26, 2026. Sylvia wore many hats within the community and served in the Army Reserve for 20+ years and was a former NAACP President of the Wayne County Chapter. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Judy Horne

Nov. 29, 1951 –March 24, 2026

Judy Gail Chriscoe Horne of Harrells (NC) passed from her earthly life on the morning of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, while at home, after a period of declining health. Born on November 29, 1951, she is the daughter of the late Joseph and Gladys Ray She eld Chriscoe. Also preceding her in death are her previous husband—Orville Earl Horne and siblings—Lizzie, Debbie and Eddie.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband—Preston Knight; children—David Earl Horne of Harrells, Malissa Horne of Smith eld and Renee Henderson (Larry Marschal) of P ugerville (TX); siblings—Diane Howard of Magnolia and Mary Cottle and husband Frank of Rose Hill; grandchildren—Kenneth Wayne Lanier, Ti any Renee Smith, Nicholas Earl Horne, Dylan Wade Henderson, Christopher Randall Cathey and Sadie Nevaeh Cathey; and great grandchildren—Rylee Smith, Brantley Jay Henderson and Killien Jensen Henderson. Judy was born in Montgomery County, North Carolina, and moved to the eastern part of the state, and eventually settled in Harrells. Her work career found her as a seamstress working in several local sewing plants. She also worked in Cavenaugh Supper House.

A memorial service is planned for March 30, 2026, with a 1 p.m. visitation and a 2 p.m. service. Services will be held in the Padgett Funeral Home Chapel at 401 W. Main Street, Wallace, NC.

Elbridge “Sonny Boy” Albertson

Feb. 20, 1937 –March 21, 2026

Elbridge “Sonny Boy” Albertson, 89, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at his home.

He is preceded in death by his spouse, Eveline Albertson, and a brother, Johnson Albertson, as well as his parents, John William and Blanche Henderson Albertson.

A graveside service will be Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Riverview Cemetery in Watha, NC. Visitation will take place after the service.

He is survived by daughters Rhonda A. Timberlake (Dan), of Winston-Salem, NC; Sharon A. Dail (Joe), of Watha, NC; and Elaine A. Cruse (Tony), of Albertson, NC; sister: Doris Hatcher, of Chinquapin, NC; grandchildren Sarah Longenbach (Nate), Dek Timberlake (Tommi), Will Cruse (Michaela) and Evanne Timberlake; and great-grandchild Luke Longenbach.

Walter Kevin Kennedy

Feb. 2, 1958 – March 24, 2026

Walter Kevin Kennedy, 68, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at his home.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter Raleigh and Carolyn Kennedy, and a brother, Ricky Kennedy (Beverly).

Visitation will be Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC.

A graveside service will be Monday, March 30, 2026, at 2 p.m. at East Duplin Memorial Gardens in Beulaville, NC.

He is survived by daughter Ashley Kennedy Sholar (Dusty), of Pink Hill, NC; sister Faye Barbee (Neil), of Beulaville, NC; brother Timothy Kennedy (Tina), of Pink Hill, NC; Grandchildren Kolten Vincent, Marilynn Loy and Harlan Fay; seven nieces and nephews, and many great nieces and nephews. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Community Funeral Home, P.O. Box 715, Beulaville, NC 28518.

Donald Earl Smith

Feb. 22, 1949 –March 23, 2026

Donald Earl Smith, 77, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, in UNC Lenoir Hospital, Kinston, NC.

A funeral service is Friday, March 27, 2026, at 7 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC. Visitation to follow the service.

A graveside service will be Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Potters Cemetery on 1033 Seth Turner Road in Deep Run, NC.

He is survived by son David Smith (Angela), of Deep Run, NC; daughter Lisa Whit eld, of Albertson, NC; sister Linda Turner, of Pink Hill, NC; grandchildren Jeremy Wiggins, Brooke Hill, Darin Reid, Shyan Rose and Alexus Smith; and great-grandchildren Greyson Hill, Axel Rose, Rae-Lynn Simmons, Scarlett Swaney and Ava Rose.

Easter fun brings community together at Clement Park

Families gathered at Clement Park in Wallace on Sunday afternoon for Easter in the Park. Egg hunts, games, crafts and visits with the Easter Bunny.

Rommie Lee Green

Dec. 17, 1939 –March 28, 2026

Dudley- Mr. Rommie Lee Green, age 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Care in Goldsboro, North Carolina. His departure marks the end of a life lived with joy, generosity and an enduring spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him. The arrangements are incomplete at this time.

Stanly NewS Journal

THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Supreme Court rules 8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

Judge blocks Trump order to end funding for NPR, PBS

A federal judge has agreed to permanently block the Trump administration from implementing a presidential directive to end federal funding for National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting Service. U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss in Washington, D.C., ruled Tuesday that President Donald Trump’s executive order to cease funding for NPR and PBS is unlawful and unenforceable. The judge says the First Amendment right to free speech “does not tolerate viewpoint discrimination and retaliation of this type.” Last year, Trump said at a news conference he would “love to” defund NPR and PBS because he believes they’re biased in favor of Democrats. NPR claims the Republican president wants to punish it for the content of its journalism.

Checkpoint Charlie

Stanly County Schools presents honors at Celebration of Excellence

Numerous awards were handed out by the district

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Local teachers, administrators and support sta were recognized for their achievements during the 2025-26 academic year at Stanly County Schools’ annual Celebration of Excellence on March 26. District leaders, including SCS Superintendent Jar-

rod Dennis, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Lydia Hedrick and Chief Academic O cer Lynn Plummer, presented awards to standout educators from across the county.

“To all of our honorees, thank you for your dedication, your heart and the di erence you make every day.”

Stanly County Schools

“Thursday evening was a wonderful night of celebration as we came together to honor the incredible individuals who make Stanly County Schools such a special place to learn and grow,” the district said in an announcement of its award winners. “To all of our honorees, thank you for your dedication, your heart and the difference you make every day. And a very special thank you to our amazing student nutrition sta who catered the in-

Big Lick Bluegrass Festival returns to Oakboro for 3-day event

The lineup includes The Seldom Scene and Ralph Stanley II

By Dan Reeves Stanly News Journal

OAKBORO — In a state with deep bluegrass roots, the Big Lick Bluegrass Festival has quietly built a reputation as one of North Carolina’s most reliable stops on the regional bluegrass circuit. The three-day gathering returns April 16–18 at Big Lick Festival Park in Oakboro,

bringing a lineup of nationally known bluegrass bands along with the campers, pickers and fans who follow the festival trail each spring.

This year’s performers include The Seldom Scene, Lonesome River Band, The Grascals, Southern Legacy and Ralph Stanley II. Authentic Unlimited will serve as the festival’s host band.

For promoter Je Branch, the festival grew out of a simple idea — bring quality bluegrass bands to a part of North

Je Branch, promoter

credible meal for the evening!”

Kelly Hill, principal at South Stanly Middle School, was named the district’s Principal of the Year. Central Elementary School’s Brittany Mathews received Assistant Principal of the Year honors, while Endy Elementary School’s Luisa Suzunaga was named Teacher of the Year.

“I am incredibly grateful and honestly a bit overwhelmed by the recognition,” Hill said in a statement

Law enforcement agencies joined forces to deter impaired driving

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Multiple law enforcement agencies conducted a DWI checkpoint on U.S. Highway 24/27 within the city on the evening of March 21 as part of a statewide tra c safety initiative.

The operation, supported by the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program, brought together o cers from the Albemarle Police Department, Stanly County Sheri ’s O ce, Norwood Police Department, Misenheimer Police Department, Oakboro Police Department, North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Cabarrus County Sheri ’s O ce.

The checkpoint focused on improving roadway safety, identifying impaired drivers and deterring criminal activity through coordinated enforcement e orts.

According to results released by the Albemarle Police Department, o cers arrested two drivers for driving while impaired. Two additional arrests were made for outstanding warrants, and anoth-

Oakboro

Department

er individual was arrested in connection with felony drug tra cking.

O cers also issued 15 criminal citations for o enses including simple possession of marijuana, carrying a concealed weapon and open container violations.

In total, the checkpoint yielded 104 citations. Law enforcement also seized eight rearms and multiple illegal substances, including 66 grams of cocaine, seven grams of methamphetamine and 31 grams of marijuana.

The North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program, a division of the N.C. Department of Transportation, supports enforcement e orts such as checkpoints through more than $20 million in annual grants. The program promotes campaigns including “Click It or Ticket,” “Booze It & Lose It” and “Watch For Me NC,” all aimed at reducing tra c crashes, in-

juries and fatalities statewide.

In a statement, the Albemarle Police Department encouraged safe driving practices and community cooperation.

“The Albemarle Police Department urges motorists to drive sober, obey all tra c laws, and report suspicious or unsafe behavior. Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Albemarle Police Department at 704 -984 -9500.”

The Oakboro Police Department also highlighted the collaborative nature of the operation and its role in public safety.

“The Oakboro Police Department was proud to assist with a DWI checkpoint in Albemarle on March 21, 2026,” the department said. “Chief Preslar, O cer Teague, O cer James and O cer Morris participated in the multi-agency event.

“We would like to thank Chief Manley of the Albemarle Police Department for the invitation, and for the strong partnership between our agencies. These checkpoints are vital to keeping impaired drivers o the road and ensuring the safety of our communities. Thanks to the teamwork of all involved, this was a very successful operation.”

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County:

Now through April 11

Youth Art Show and Competition

Ongoing exhibition featuring artwork by young Stanly County artists ages 9–17, with prizes awarded in two age categories (9-12 and 13-17). The show runs March 17 through April 4, with entries in photography, two-dimensional artwork and three-dimensional pieces.

Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery 330-C North Second St. Albemarle

April 11

Movie Night: “Zootopia 2”

6:30 p.m.

The city of Locust kicks o its 2026 outdoor movie night series with this popular family-friendly lm. Food and beverages will be available on-site. Free admission.

The Backyard at City Hall 186 Ray Kennedy Drive

April 12

Salisbury Brass Ensemble — Stanly County Concert Association 4 p.m.

The Stanly County Concert Association presents the Salisbury Symphony Brass in a program of brass favorites spanning Renaissance to modern styles, gospel and pops. Free or season-ticket admission. stanlyciviccenter.com

Stanly County Agri-Civic Center 26032 Newt Road Albemarle

THE CONVERSATION

Trip

Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while

proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt

into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Are we safe anymore?

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination.

In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence. Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope.

Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland

Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era.

The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversi ed astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore, was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters

FESTIVAL from page A1

Carolina where the music already had deep roots.

Branch, a Stanly County native, has spent years organizing bluegrass concerts and festivals in the region. What began in the early 2000s as a modest local gathering gradually expanded as touring bands and traveling fans discovered the Oakboro event.

“We try to book the best bands we can and create a place where people feel welcome,” Branch said. “A lot of folks come back every year, and after a while it starts to feel like a big family reunion.”

The festival takes its name from a piece of local history. Long before Oakboro became a town, early settlers referred to the area as “Big Lick,” a name tied to natural salt deposits where wildlife gathered. The nickname faded over time but remains attached to the festival and the park that hosts it.

Like many traditional bluegrass festivals, the format remains straightforward. Bands rotate through the stage over three days while fans settle into lawn chairs or gather around campers parked across the festival grounds.

Many attendees arrive days before the rst performance and return to the same camping spots each year. By the time the opening set begins, the park begins to resemble a temporary neighborhood.

about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will.

As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wanna Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.”

Despite having one spaceight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as much time and thought preparing them as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electri-

cal engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

After the nal scheduled performances each evening, the music rarely stops. Informal jam sessions spring up throughout the campground as musicians form small circles and trade songs late into the night.

That dynamic has long been part of the bluegrass tradition, where the audience often includes musicians themselves.

Branch said that atmosphere is a big part of what keeps fans returning.

“The fans here really listen to the music,” he said. “They appreciate the picking, the singing and the tradition behind it.”

North Carolina has played a central role in shaping bluegrass music. The state pro-

duced in uential artists including Cleveland County banjo pioneer Earl Scruggs and Watauga County guitarist Doc Watson, whose playing helped carry the music far beyond the Appalachian region.

Festivals like Big Lick help keep that tradition active, providing a stage for established touring bands while introducing younger groups to audiences that follow the genre year after year.

For a few days each April, Oakboro becomes one of those gathering points. The stage lights come on, the campers ll the eld, and the sound of banjos, ddles and mandolins carries across a quiet corner of Stanly County.

On April 11, 1970, the Saturn V rocket carrying the crew of the Apollo 13 mission to the moon launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Apollo vs. Artemis: What to know about NASA’s return to the moon

Artemis brings greater diversity to humanity’s return to lunar orbit

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— NASA’s Apollo moonshots are a tough act to follow, even after all this time.

As four astronauts get set to blast o on humanity’s rst trip to the moon in more than half a century, comparisons between Apollo and NASA’s new Artemis program are inevitable.

The world’s rst lunar visitors orbited the moon on Apollo 8. The Artemis II crew will play it safe and zip around the moon in an out-and-back slingshot.

Another key di erence: Artemis re ects more of society, with a woman, person of color and Canadian rocketing away.

While Artemis builds on Apollo and pays homage to it, “there is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch, part of the Artemis II crew.

Here’s the lowdown on Apollo vs. Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as NASA targets the rst six days of April for lifto . Run-up to the moon

It took NASA just eight years to go from putting its rst astronaut in space to putting Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in 1969, beating President John Kennedy’s end-of-decade deadline.

“The Apollo program still just absolutely blows me away,” said Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency, Artemis has progressed much more slowly, after decades of indecision and ip- opping between the moon and Mars as the next grand destination. NASA’s new moon rocket, the Space Launch System, or SLS, has soared only once in a test ight without anyone on board more than three years ago.

This plodding approach is why NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, overhauled the Artemis program in February. Keen to emulate Apollo, he added a mission between the upcoming Artemis II mission and the moon landing that’s now shifted to Artemis IV in 2028.

During next year’s revamped Artemis III, astronauts will stick closer to home the same way Apollo 9 did in 1969. Instead of attempting a moon landing as originally envisioned, they will practice docking their Orion capsule in orbit around Earth with one or both lunar landers under development by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Je Bezos’ Blue Origin. The rival companies are accelerating work on their landers in a bid to be rst.

Political rivalries

The Soviets were Ameri-

ca’s erce rivals during Apollo, but their moon rockets kept exploding at lifto and they eventually gave up. Now the Chinese are the competition.

China already has landed robotic spacecraft on the moon’s far side — the only nation to achieve that — and is scrambling to land astronauts near the lunar south pole by 2030.

NASA is aiming for the same polar region, where shadowed craters are thought to hold vast amounts of ice that could provide drinking water and rocket fuel. Like his predecessor Bill Nelson, Isaacman is determined to beat China to the nish line and win this second space race.

Moon rocket

Apollo’s Saturn V rockets stood 363 feet, with ve rst-stage engines. The Artemis SLS rocket comes in at 322 feet but packs more lifto thrust with its four main engines and two strap-on boosters.

All but one Saturn V rocket soared from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A, now leased by SpaceX.

NASA will use neighboring pad 39-B for all SLS ights. While the Saturn V launched twice before carrying astronauts, the SLS has own only once. Hydrogen fuel leaks delayed the SLS debut in 2022 and struck again during a countdown test in February, stalling Artemis II. Then helium trouble reappeared, causing further delay. NASA is now targeting an April lifto .

Launch Control remains at the same place. There was one woman in the packed ring room for the lifto of Apollo 11. Now a woman leads it: Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson.

First lunar crews

Apollo 8 still ranks as the gutsiest space mission of all time. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders became the rst humans to launch to the moon in 1968. Borman, the commander, insisted on as few lunar orbits as possible given the risks. He and his bosses settled on 10 orbits as a warmup for 1969’s moonwalk by Armstrong and Aldrin.

NASA decided long ago against orbiting the moon on Artemis’ crew debut, judging it too dangerous. The main goal is to test the Orion capsule’s life-support equipment, ying for the rst time.

One big similarity between Apollo 8 and Artemis II is the troubled times surrounding them.

“If we can contribute a little bit to hope for humanity,” said Artemis II pilot Victor Glover of NASA, “that is a huge thing.”

Shades of Apollo 13

The Artemis astronauts will orbit Earth for a day to make certain everything is working properly before igniting the main engine and heading for the moon. It will take three to four days for the capsule to

HONORS from page A1

following the event. “Those who know me know how much I care about this work, and I would not be here without the constant support, encouragement and guidance of my family, mentors and colleagues along the way. Education is not an easy path. It’s a calling that requires heart, dedication and a genuine passion for serving others.”

Rich eld Elementary School’s Brooke Davis was recognized as a runner-up nalist for Principal of the Year. West Stanly Middle School’s Mandy E rd and North Stanly Middle School’s Ashley Walker were honored as assistant principal runner-up nalists.

The ceremony also recognized each school’s Teacher of the Year for the 2025-26 academic year.

School), Allison Vanness (Norwood Elementary School), Jackie Hart (North Stanly Middle School), Megan Geddings (Locust Elementary School), Dana Bowers-Yang (Aquadale Elementary School), Sandy (Samantha) Brown (Albemarle Middle School), Cheryl Owen (Millingport Elementary School) and Morgan Baldwin (SCOVE/SALC).

The district also honored Support Sta of the Year recipients from each school.

reach the moon and continue some 5,000 miles beyond, exceeding the distance record set by 1970’s ill-fated Apollo 13. Like Apollo 13, Artemis II will take advantage of the moon and Earth’s gravity, making a gure eight after whipping around the moon to head home in what’s known as a free-return trajectory requiring little if any fuel. It got Apollo 13’s three astronauts safely back although they had to abandon their moon landing.

Artemis astronauts will parachute into the Paci c after their mission like the Apollo crews did.

Suiting up

For Apollo, the white, bulky spacesuits did double duty. What the astronauts wore for launch and return was the same for moonwalks since there wasn’t enough storage space for di erent out ts.

The Orion capsules for Artemis are bigger, designed to hold four astronauts instead of three plus two sets of spacesuits. NASA created brand new spacesuits for use inside the capsule, while turning to private companies for the moonwalking attire.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his crew will wear the orange custom- tted suits for launch and reentry. They’ll also use them in case of a depressurization or some other emergency. They can survive up to six days in the suits, inserting a straw into the helmet to sip water or protein shakes and relying on undergarment bags and bladders as a built-in toilet.

Houston-based Axiom Space is designing the white moonwalking suits that will accompany future Artemis crews.

Long-term goals

Apollo was all about beating the Russians to the moon and planting the U.S. ag. Astronauts landed six times from 1969 through 1972, with the longest surface stay lasting 75 hours. Five of the 24 Apollo astronauts who ew to the moon are still alive. For the rst Artemis moon landing, a pair of astronauts could spend nearly a week there. It’s a complicated plan compared with Apollo.

Artemis moonwalkers will launch to the moon aboard Orion and, once in lunar orbit, transfer to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon, whichever is ready rst. They’ll descend to the surface, and, after a few days, blast back into orbit to rendezvous with their Orion capsule. Orion will be the astronauts’ ride home.

NASA is striving for sustained lunar living, with Mars to follow, although “day one of the moon base is not going to look like this glass-enclosed, domed city,” Isaacman said. Last week, he unveiled a blueprint for the moon base showing habitats, rovers, drones, power stations and more. NASA plans to invest $20 billion over the next seven years.

Honorees included Luisa Suzunaga (Endy Elementary School), Dana Burleson (West Stanly High School), Sharon Stephens (East Albemarle Elementary School), Nancy Slattery (Stan eld Elementary School), Kristina Hiatt (Stanly STEM Early College), Taylor Smith (West Stanly Middle School), Cindi Ward (Stanly Early College), Beverly Bowles (South Stanly Middle School), Stacy Lucas (South Stanly High School), Kristie McCowan (North Stanly High School) and Alison Whisnant (Badin Elementary School).

Additional honorees included Mary Frances Blevins (Richeld Elementary School), Kimrey Lowder (Albemarle High School), Kirstie Bryson (Central Elementary School), Kelly Hill (Oakboro Choice STEM

Honorees included Erin Gardiner (Albemarle High School), Shameka Wheeler (Albemarle Middle School), Beth Mills (Aquadale Elementary School), Kennedy Kirby (Badin Elementary School), Paula Little (Central Elementary School), Myisha Clark (East Albemarle Elementary School), Caylee Thompson (Endy Elementary School), Raquel Greene Garcia (Locust Elementary School), Megan Smith (Millingport Elementary School) and Carol Shank (North Stanly High School).

Additional support sta honorees included Katie Green (North Stanly Middle School), Cathy Holland (Norwood Elementary School), Mary Doyle (Oakboro Choice STEM School), Teresa Wood (Rich eld Elementary School), Tasheka Watkins (South Stanly High School), Sara (Hunt) Wolfe (South Stanly Middle School), Jessica Medlin (Stan eld Elementary School), Chad Whitley (West Stanly High School), Taylor Furr (West Stanly Middle School), Rhiannon Weeks (Stanly Early College), Meika Crump (Stanly STEM Early College) and Anthony Keeling (SCOVE/SALC).

OBITUARIES

BARBARA JEAN FOSTER

MARCH 14, 2026

Ms. Barbara Jean Foster, 86, of Huntersville, NC, passed away March 14, 2026. A cum laude graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, she devoted her life to education and service. In 1967, she became the rst Black teacher at Norwood Elementary during desegregation. She later taught in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, retiring in 1995 after 30 years of dedicated service.

WANDA CRITCHER AKERS

JAN. 28, 1959 – MARCH 25, 2026

Wanda Critcher Akers, 67 of Stan eld, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her most.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Carolina Presbyterian Church, o ciated by Pastor Jack Roylston. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, a place of quiet rest and re ection. The family will receive friends from 1-2:45 p.m. prior to the service, where all who knew and loved Wanda are invited to gather, share memories, and honor her life.

Born on January 28, 1959, in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, Wanda was the beloved daughter of the late Roy Critcher and the late Katie Stancil Hill. She lived a life marked by devotion—to her faith, her family, and the values she held dear.

Wanda was a woman of both grace and strength. Early in life, she found success as a product manager at a bank. Known for her sharp mind, integrity, and natural ability in business she eventually founded and ran a successful real estate company. Yet, her greatest calling was found at home. Once she became a mother, she lovingly devoted herself to raising her children, creating a home lled with warmth, stability, and unwavering care. She was deeply family-oriented, always placing the needs of her loved ones above her own.

A faithful and dedicated Christian, Wanda lived out her beliefs quietly but faithfully, o ering kindness, encouragement, and steady support to those around her. At Northside Baptist Church, she was very active with Awanna, volunteering for many years. At her current church, Carolina presbyterian, she has served for a number of years with the nursery.

Wanda shared a strong and enduring partnership with her husband, built on mutual respect, shared values, and a like-minded approach to life. Together, they created a life grounded in faith, love, and purpose.

She also found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially time spent at the beach, where the sound of the waves and the beauty of the coast brought her peace and happiness.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in her family. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Timothy David Akers. She is also survived by her children, Timothy David Akers, II (Katie) of Oakboro, and Sara Akers Richardson of Polkton; her sisters, Susan Rhodes and Belinda Thomas; and her seven beloved grandchildren, Sophia, Jackson, Michael, Peyton, Carter, Cami, and Timothy David III, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her love will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched, guiding and comforting them in the days ahead.

The family kindly requests that memorials be made to Carolina Presbyterian Church, 406 Renee Ford Road, Locust, NC 28097, in honor of Wanda’s faith and the church community she held dear.

LINDA BURLESON

APRIL 21, 1943 – MARCH 25, 2026

Linda Harwood Burleson, 82, of Albemarle, died Wednesday evening, March 25, 2026, at Spring Arbor.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Cottonville Baptist Church Cemetery. Pastor John Lindsay will o ciate. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall.

Linda was born April 21, 1943, in Stanly County to the late Crawford and Clyde Huneycutt Harwood. She was a retiree of Food Lion and a member of Cottonville Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Allen Burleson, on December 10, 2024.

She is survived by her daughters, Cheri Burleson Lindsay (John) and Natalie Burleson Furr. Her sister, Phyllis Harwood E rd. Four grandchildren, Alyssa Lindsay, Jessica Lindsay Odom (James), Isaac Furr (Lizzie) and Kyle Furr. Four great-grandchildren, Raidyn, Waylon, Amelia and Rylee Jo. Memorials may be made to the International Missions Board, Home 2024 .

JEFFREY “JEFF” DARRELL MORTON

APRIL 28, 1967 – MARCH 25, 2026

Je rey Darrell Morton, 58, of Claremont, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Je was born April 28, 1967, in Albemarle, NC, to the late Jerry Miller Morton and the late Dorothy “Dot” Thompson Morton.

Je graduated from West Stanly High School in 1985. He built a respected career as a skilled granite countertop craftsman and took great pride in leading TarHeel Marble. He also enjoyed his time working with Graphix Design, especially the opportunities it gave him to travel. Je found joy in the simple things—cooking out on the grill, spending peaceful days by the river and deer hunting. He and his best friend, Chad, shared many years coaching softball, creating lasting memories both on and o the eld. A quiet man by nature, Je had an incredibly big heart. He deeply loved his children and grandchildren, and his love for Angela was unwavering. Above all, he cherished his role as a devoted ancé, dad, paw paw, brother, and uncle. Je will be forever loved and greatly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include ancée, Angela Black of the home; daughter, Brinkley Morton of the home; Chelsea Morton of New London, NC; son Zachary Morton of New Salem, NC; brother, Rodney (Tammie) Morton of Hickory, NC; sister, Lynn (David) Blake of Gainesboro, TN; grandchildren, Brenton, Aloysia, Remington and Kinsleigh; nephew, Pastor Jerry Michael Morton; and niece, Amber Wilhoit.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. Je will lie in state one hour prior to the service on Monday, March 30, 2026. The service will begin at 11 a.m. in the Hartsell Funeral Home Le er Memorial Chapel in Albemarle, o ciated by Pastor Jerry Michael Morton. Burial will follow at the Smith Grove Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, Oakboro.

The Morton family would like to express their sincerest thanks for the love and care Angela and Amber gave him.

Charlie Kirk’s mentor, cheerleading pioneer Je Webb dead at 76 after ‘tragic accident’

The Varsity Spirit founder turned cheerleading into an international competitive sport

The Associated Press

JEFF WEBB, the founder of Varsity Spirit who helped transform cheerleading into an International Olympic Committee-recognized sport and mentored late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, has died. He was 76.

A family spokesperson said Webb died last Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, following a “tragic accident.” The family has declined to comment on speci cs.

Webb founded the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) in 1974 with the mission of changing the narrative around cheerleading, boosting its visibility and turning it into a globally recognized sport. His e orts included new uniform concepts, educational camps, training programs and the creation of the rst national cheerleading competition. These efforts evolved into Varsity Spirit.

“He helped pioneer the use of advanced gymnastics and stunts in cheer routines, launched the rst national cheerleading championships, and brought the sport to national audiences through televised broadcasts on ESPN,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “He also played a central role in developing the rst safety guidelines and helped establish key governing bodies, including the U.S. All Star Federation and USA Cheer.”

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did.”

Webb’s children

Webb is survived by his wife, Gina, and his children, Je ery and Caroline.

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did, from revolutionizing cheerleading to his never-ending — and constantly growing — list of activities,” Webb’s children wrote in a statement. “He brought that same spirit of dedication and encouragement to being a father and grandfather. To most people, he is a legendary entrepreneur — to us, he was our soccer coach and on-demand comedian, our mentor and father-daughter dance partner, our solace and our source of strength.” He was also a conservative activist who was described as a mentor to Kirk, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.

Kirk’s company, Turning Point USA, posted a video in memory of Webb on social media.

“In memory of Je Webb,” the post reads. “A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country. A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”

Actor James Tolkan of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ fame dies at 94

The actor spent 25 years in New York theater before his lm career

The Associated Press

JAMES TOLKAN, known for his roles as authoritarian gures in the hit lms “Back to the Future” and “Top Gun,” has died. He was 94.

Tolkan died last Thursday in Lake Placid, New York, where he lived, his booking agent, John Alcantar, said Saturday. A brief obituary published on the “Back to the Future” website said Tolkan died “peacefully,” but no cause of death was given.

In “Back to the Future,” Tolkan portrayed the bow tie-wearing vice principal Gerald Strickland, who eyeballed students for trouble in the halls of the ctitious Hill Valley High School — in particular Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox.

“You got a real attitude problem, McFly,” Tolkan’s character

says in the 1985 lm. “You’re a slacker. You remind me of your father when he went here. He was a slacker, too.”

Tolkan also appeared in “Top Gun” as commanding o cer Tom “Stinger” Jardian. Near the end of the lm, when Jardian asks Tom Cruise’s character, Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, about his choice for future duty, Mitchell replies that he wants to be a Top Gun instructor.

“God help us,” Tolkan’s character replies, laughing.

Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated from high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He eventually made his way to New York, where he spent a quarter century acting in theater roles. He was a member of the original ensemble cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who said in a statement that her husband also was an avid art collector and adored animals.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@stanlynewsjournal.com

This undated image provided by the Tolkan family shows actor James Tolkan.

STANLY SPORTS

West Stanly baseball rolls to 12-0 start

The Colts have outscored opponents 119-20 during their unbeaten start

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

RED CROSS — West Stanly’s baseball team extended its dominant start to the 2026 season Friday, shutting out Forest Hills 11-0 at home to remain unbeaten.

The Colts (12-0, 4-0 RRC), last year’s 2A Western Regional runners-up, are chasing their fourth consecutive Rocky River Conference title and rst as a 4A program under the state’s new eight-class model.

Pfei

The Falcons are 5-1 against USA South opponents

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER —

Pfei er’s softball team continued its successful run in USA South Athletic Conference play over the weekend, extending its winning streak to six games while positioning itself for another run at the league title.

The Falcons, who are chasing their fth consecutive USA South regular-season championship and fourth straight conference tournament title, improved to 20-8 overall and 5-1 in league play.

Through the rst stretch of conference action, Pfei er sits in third place but remains rmly in contention following a doubleheader sweep of Mary Baldwin on Saturday at Jack Ingram Field in Misenheimer.

Pfei er opened the day with a 13-1 victory in ve innings, then followed with a 16-2 win in Game 2, overwhelming the Fighting Squirrels (5-18-1, 1-5 USA South) with consistent offense and quality pitching.

In the early game, the Falcons picked up four runs in the rst inning and never looked back. Pfei er outhit Mary Baldwin 13-1, adding runs throughout the game before closing it out early.

Junior center elder Landry Stewart led the charge, going 4 for 4 with three runs, a double and four stolen bases. Freshman utility player Heather Vaughn added a 3-for-3 performance with two runs and two

West Stanly has controlled opponents on both sides of the ball, outscoring teams 119-20 through its rst 12 games. The Colts nished 23-8 a season ago, including a perfect 10-0 in conference play.

Against Forest Hills (4 -8, 1-4 RRC), Colts junior pitcher Kannon Tucker delivered a standout performance on the mound, allowing just two hits while striking out 11 batters.

O ensively, the Colts broke the game open with ve-run innings in both the third and fth. West Stanly totaled eight hits, with sophomore Caleb Foley and senior Sam Carpenter each driving in two runs.

West Stanly traveled to

Parkwood on Tuesday and is scheduled to host the Wolfpack on Thursday.

North Stanly 20, Albemarle 1; North Stanly 15, Albemarle 0

Outscoring the Albemarle Bulldogs (2-5, 1-3 YVC) 35-1 across two games, the North Stanly Comets (9-2, 2-0 YVC) made easy work of their local opponent in a doubleheader in New London on Friday.

The Comets are the reigning Yadkin Valley Conference champs coming o a 26-2 (10 - 0 YVC) season, while the Bulldogs were 1-15 last year.

North Stanly hosted South Stanly on Tuesday and will head to Norwood to face the Rowdy Rebel Bulls on Thursday. Albemarle embarked on a two-game home/road split with Union Academy.

South Stanly 17, North Rowan 0

With a 17-0 road win at North Rowan (2-7, 1-3 YVC), the South Stanly Rowdy Rebel Bulls (7-6, 4-0 YVC) have won four games in a row — and ve out of six — after a rocky 2-5 start to the season.

Union Academy 3, Gray Stone 1

The Gray Stone Knights (3 - 5, 0-3 YVC), hoping to improve from last season’s 7-13 (2-8 YVC) campaign, are still searching for their rst conference win of the season as they aim to snap a three-game skid. They’ll get a shot to improve in YVC play as they travel to North Rowan on Thursday following a home visit from the Cavaliers on Tuesday.

South Stanly’s matchups with North Stanly this week could prove vital to the two teams’ placement in the midseason league standings. The Bulls nished third in the YVC (6-4) in 2025, putting together a 21-7 overall record.

extends winning streak to 6 games

RBIs, while sophomore pitcher Mollie Bulla contributed a two -run double at the plate. Bulla also earned the win on the mound, allowing just one run on one hit across four innings.

Pfei er carried that momentum into Game 2, again scoring four runs in the rst in-

ning before erupting for four more in the second and eight in the third. The Falcons nished with 16 runs on 14 hits while holding Mary Baldwin to just one hit for the second straight game. The team’s recent surge was further highlighted Monday when freshman E.A. Nance

was named USA South Softball Rookie of the Week. The Cleveland native went 9 for 15 (.600) over six games last week, posting a .625 on-base percentage and 1.000 slugging percentage with seven runs scored and nine RBIs. In conference sweeps of Southern Virginia and Mary Baldwin, Nance tallied six hits, six runs and six RBIs, including a home run.

Pfei er will look to extend its winning streak Saturday when it travels to Winston-Salem for a conference doubleheader against the Salem Spirits, who have won just one of their six conference games so far.

Malinin bounces back, wins 3rd straight world gure skating title

Prague Ilia Malinin reeled o one huge jump after another, and a back ip for good measure, to retain his world championship title for the third year running. Malinin landed ve highscoring quadruple jumps but not his pioneering quad axel, a jump he didn’t attempt at the Olympics. Malinin scored 218.11 in the free skate for a total 329.40 on Saturday, far ahead of silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama of Japan on 306.67. Another Japanese skater, Shun Sato, was third on 288.54.

NBA

Lakers’ Doncic suspended 1 game by NBA after 16th technical foul

New York

Luka Doncic was suspended one game by the NBA after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. The league announced that Doncic was suspended after a scu e in the Lakers’ win over Brooklyn. Ziaire Williams yelled in Doncic’s space after an o ensive foul call. Doncic pushed Williams’ arm and Williams swiped across Doncic’s face. O cials reviewed the play and gave both players technicals. Under NBA rules, the 16th technical triggers an automatic suspension without pay.

NBA James passes to James for 3-pointer, NBA’s rst father-son assist

Los Angeles LeBron James literally passed it on to the next generation. The NBA says James recorded the league’s rst father-toson assist when he passed to Bronny James for a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Brooklyn. The Lakers’ father-and-son duo played meaningful minutes together for the second straight game. Bronny James was on court with his father for nearly 41⁄2 minutes when they checked in together to start the second quarter.

WNBA

Sun reach deal to sell to Rockets owner, move team to Houston in 2027

The Connecticut Sun have reached an agreement to sell the team to Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta for $300 million and will move to Houston in 2027. The WNBA Board of Governors still needs to approve the sale and the move.

The team will play in Connecticut for the upcoming season before moving to Houston and becoming the Comets. This will end a 23-year run by the team in New England after the team moved to Connecticut from Orlando in 2003.

NCAA BASKETBALL

Boston College hires UConn assistant Murray, son of actor, as basketball coach

Chestnut Hill, Mass.

Boston College has hired UConn assistant Luke Murray as men’s basketball coach. Murray, the son of actor Bill Murray, will be a rst-time head coach. He replaces Earl Grant after he was red earlier this month after the Eagles had a losing record in four of his ve seasons. Murray has been a part of two national championship teams in his ve seasons with UConn.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@stanlynewsjournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

BASEBALL

SOUTH STANLY (7-6, 4-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won vs. North Rowan 25-1

• Won vs. Buford 10-0

• Won at North Rowan 17-0

This week’s schedule

• March 31 at North Stanly

• April 2 vs. North Stanly

• April 6 at West Brunswick

WEST STANLY (12-0, 4-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won at Forest Hills 11-0

• Won vs. Carmel Christian 11-1

• Won vs. Forest Hills 11-0

This week’s schedule

• March 31 at Parkwood

• April 2 vs. Parkwood

• April 6 at Randleman

NORTH STANLY

(9-2, 2-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won at East Rowan 2-0

• Won vs. Central Davidson 11-10

• Won vs. Albemarle 20-1

• Won at Albemarle 15-0

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. South Stanly

• April 2 at South Stanly

NORTH STANLY (3-7, 1-2 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won at Albemarle 19-0

• Won vs. Central Cabarrus 6-4

• Lost vs. East Rowan 10-4

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. South Stanly

• April 2 at South Stanly

ALBEMARLE (0-3, 0-1 IN CONFERENCE)

• Lost vs. North Stanly 19-0

• Lost at Jay M. Robinson 21-0

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. Union Academy

• April 2 at Union Academy

GRAY STONE DAY (3-7, 0-4 IN CONFERENCE)

• Lost at Union Academy 12-1

• Lost at Union Academy 23-6

• Lost at Central Academy 13-10

• Lost vs. Wheatmore 7-6

No games scheduled this week

GIRLS’ SOCCER

SOUTH STANLY (3-3, 2-1 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won at Albemarle 3-0

It is the Hendrick driver’s 22nd career win

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

MARTINSVILLE, VA.

The strategy calls don’t always work out for Chase Elliott in the Cup Series.

So when the plan comes together — as it did in a victory at Martinsville Speedway — it’s especially sweet for NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver and his legions of adoring fans.

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough,” Elliott said while celebrating on the frontstetch to huge cheers after his rst win this season and the 22nd of his career. “So just really, really grateful for the opportunity. I never take it for granted. Trust me, this is a dream come true for me.”

The 30-year-old from Dawsonville, Georgia, capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet earlier than the other contenders. When the caution ew on the 312th lap, Elliott was in second behind Denny Hamlin and pitted with the rest of the leadlap drivers aside from Ross Chastain, who took the lead by staying on track.

Elliott took rst from Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota.

“It was de nitely a team effort,” Elliott said after his second win on the 0.526-mile oval. “That was awesome. So proud of Alan and the whole

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough.”

Chase Elliott

team. They did a great job, and we took a gamble. But just so proud of them. They put up with a lot, and they got to put up with me all the time. So I just appreciate them for sticking with me.”

Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Elliott, who has been voted NASCAR’s most popular driver annually since 2018, led 84 laps in delivering the rst win this year for Hendrick Motorsports. The winningest team in Cup history has a record 31 victories at Martinsville.

Gustafson, whose calls are frequently second-guessed by one of NASCAR’s biggest fan bases whenever Elliott struggles, said he got a supportive call Sunday morning from team owner Rick Hendrick.

“He’s like, ‘Everything’s great, love you guys, playing the long game, and this is a marathon, not a sprint,’” Gustafson said in recounting the conversation. “But nevertheless, when the boss calls you, it gets your attention.”

The decision was virtually a no-brainer for Gustafson after Elliott started 10th and ran mostly outside the top ve for the rst half of the 400-lap race.

“We were just kind of

trapped in like the 10th spot,” Gustafson said. “It’s really hard to pass, and we just need to do something di erent. I just felt like it was worth a shot. And when we pitted early, I think it just drug a lot of guys down. Obviously, the caution’s great. It gave us track position, and the rest is history.”

Hamlin, who has a series-best six wins at Martinsville, started from the pole position and dominated, leading 292 of the rst 317 laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing star got shufed from the lead during a pit stop sequence under a yellow ag that began on the 312th lap and then lost momentum on the ensuing restart. He also thought a loose wheel caused his handling to fade in the

nal stage.

“(Elliott) did a good job of controlling the pace there,” Hamlin said. “It just really came from that bad restart I had. Just not much really I could have done, and it felt like we gave it our all. We’ll check it out here, but I just thought the wheel was loose here on that last run. Either way, these are just some of the races that get away from you and your career.”

The win came 11 years to the day of Elliott’s debut in the Cup Series. He nished 38th in the March 29, 2015, race that was won by Hamlin. Elliott said he was reminded of the anniversary at an autograph session Sunday morning.

“A couple fans that were here that day came up to me and told me about it,” Elliott said. “So I got to thinking about it. Really cool to kind of see all that come full circle.”

ALBEMARLE (2-5, 1-3 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won vs. South Davidson 7-6

• Lost at North Stanly 20-1

• Lost at North Stanly 15-0

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. Union Academy

• April 2 at Union Academy

GRAY STONE DAY (3-5, 0-3 IN CONFERENCE)

• Lost at Union Academy 11-4

• Lost at Union Academy 3-1

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. North Rowan

• April 2 at North Rowan

SOFTBALL

SOUTH STANLY (11-0, 2-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won vs. Concord 9-8

• Won at A.L. Brown 3-2

This week’s schedule

• March 31 at North Stanly

• April 2 vs. North Stanly

• April 6 vs. Crest

WEST STANLY (12-1, 8-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won vs. Mount Pleasant 9-5

• Won at Central Academy 16-1

• Won vs. Union Academy 1-0

Upcoming schedule

• March 31 vs. Parkwood

• April 2 vs. Piedmont

• April 6 vs. East Bladen

• Lost at North Rowan 4-2

• Won vs. North Stanly 3-1

Upcoming schedule

• April 1 at Union Academy

WEST STANLY (8-1-1, 5-0 IN CONFERENCE)

• Tied at South Rowan 3-3

• Won at Forest Hills 9-0

• Won vs. Anson 15-0

• Lost vs. South Rowan 3-1

Upcoming schedule

• April 1 vs. Mount Pleasant

NORTH STANLY (0-10-1, 0-3 IN CONFERENCE)

• Lost vs. Union Academy 9-0

• Lost vs. South Davidson 2-0

• Lost at South Stanly 3-1

Upcoming schedule

• April 1 vs. North Rowan

ALBEMARLE (0-7, 0-3 IN CONFERENCE)

• Lost vs. South Stanly 3-0

• Lost at Union Academy 10-0

• Lost at South Davidson 3-2

• Lost at North Rowan 2-0

Upcoming schedule

• April 1 vs. Gray Stone Day

GRAY STONE DAY (4-4, 2-1 IN CONFERENCE)

• Won vs. North Rowan 5-1

• Won vs. Lee Park Prep 5-4

• Lost vs. Union Academy 9-0

Upcoming schedule

• April 23 at Albemarle

• April 2 vs. Mount Pleasant

NOTICE

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the Bidding Documents is: Chambers Engineering, PA 129 N. First Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing O ce on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing O ce as described below. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing O ce. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing O ce. Bidding Documents may be purchased from the Issuing O ce during the hours indicated above. Upon Issuing O ce’s receipt of payment, electronic documents will be sent via the Issuing O ce’s designated website. Bidding Documents are available for purchase in the following formats: Format Electronic download of Bidding Documents from the Issuing O ce Cost $100

Prospective Bidders shall contact the Issuing O ce by email at dblalock@cepa.com to request and obtain Bidding Documents. Pre-bid Conference A pre-bid conference for the Project will NOT be held. Instructions to Bidders For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, quali cations, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids, as may in the judgment of the governing board, serve its best interest and further reserves the right to waive irregularities and informalities in any bid submitted.

This Advertisement is issued by:

Owner: Town of Norwood By: Ray Allen

Title: Town Administrator Date: March 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

25E000483-830 NORTH CAROLINA GUILFORD COUNTY

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of William Claude Cook AKA William C. Cook, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before June 18, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This is the 18th day of March 2026.

Crystal C. Page Administrator of the Estate of William Claude Cook AKA William C. Cook PO Box 1273 Norwood, NC 28128 N. BLANE STANALAND Teague Rotenstreich Stanaland Fox & Holt, P.L.L.C. 101 South Elm Street, Suite 350 Greensboro, NC 27401 Telephone: (336) 272-4810 Fax: (336) 272-2448 Publication dates: 3/18/26, 3/25/26, 4/1/26, 4/8/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STANLY COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 26E000134-830. The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the estate of SHARON HUNEYCUTT WADE AKA SHARON H WADE, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the decedent to present to the undersigned on or before June 30, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Jennifer Clemmer aka Jennifer Lynne Wade c/o Paula J. Yost PO Box 1385 Mt. Pleasant NC 28124.

PUBLIC NOTICE

March 24, 2026

The Stanly County Airport Authority has changed the scheduled meeting date for the Tuesday, April 7, 2026 meeting to Tuesday, April 14, 2026. The time will remain the same, 5:00pm. Questions or comments should be directed to the attention of: Randy Shank Stanly County Airport Authority 43222 Lowder Aviation Parkway New London, NC 28127 704-982-9013

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000126-830

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the estate of Mary Batten Simpson deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Mary Batten Simpson to present them to the undersigned on or before June 20, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 18th day of March 2026. Jamie Yvonne Mills 252 Lagoda Drive

NOTICE

Two doses of Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Housemaid’ with Sydney Sweeney, Jon Hamm robs

Country singer Charley Crockett drops “Age of the Ram”

The Associated Press

AMANDA SEYFRIED starring in “The Testament of Ann Lee” and Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” returning for Season 3 are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also among the streaming o erings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Jon Hamm is back stealing in his Apple TV series “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Sydney Sweeney teams up with Seyfried for the steamy thriller “The Housemaid,” and Grammy-nominated country singer Charley Crockett o ers his album, “Age of the Ram.” MOVIES TO STREAM

Seyfried probably should have been nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Shakers founder Ann Lee in Mona Fastvold’s audacious and euphoric musical “The Testament of Ann Lee,” which is streaming now on Hulu. “The lm is absolutely not for everyone,” Jocelyn Noveck wrote in her AP review. “But Fastvold has undeniably created something we’ve never quite seen before; speaking of visions, her singular artistic vision lls every frame. And Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Another movie that scored with critics but didn’t necessarily nd a massive audience in theaters was “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” which is available now on Net ix. The zombie lm, directed by Nia DaCosta working o of an Alex Garland script, stars Jack O’Connell and Ralph Fiennes. In his AP review, Mark Kennedy wrote, “The fourth entry in an ever-more engrossing franchise is absolutely bonkers — and a triumph. It mixes dark, queasy disembowelment and laugh-out-loud humor in a way that both subverts the genre and leads a way out of it, too.” For something completely di erent, the Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” starring Jonathan Gro and Daniel Radcli e is also

coming to Net ix on Saturday. The box o ce sensation “The Housemaid” is on Starz. The Paul Feig lm starring Seyfried and Sweeney became a breakout hit in theaters, earning more than $396 million against a $35 million budget. Kennedy wrote in his review that it’s a “delicious, satirical look at the secret depravity of the ultra-rich, but it’s so well constructed that’s it’s not clear who’s naughty or nice. Halfway through, the movie zigs and everything you expected zags.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Grammy-nominated country singer Crockett enters the “Age of the Ram,” co-produced by Shooter Jennings, the third and nal chapter of his “Sagebrush Trilogy.” In true Crockett fashion, it’s equal parts old school country storytelling and forward-thinking future-casting. Singles “Fastest Gun Alive” and “Kentucky Too Long” are good places to start — Crockett’s idiosyncratic voice is all Old West air.

Everyone’s favorite Philadelphia-based, Medieval-obsessed punks Poison Ruin will release a new album, “Hymn from the Hills,” on Friday. Expect more of their classic sound — an inventive intersection of death

rock and chain mail — with increased ferocity. Or, as the album description reads, themes that include “spirits traversing sunless deserts and wilted hillsides, demonic torture objects limning the edges of the psyche, bodies trans gured into Luciferian snakes, Sadean prisoners bound to the screaming silence of abandoned castle towers.” You know, the usual. The great Swedish post-punk band Makthaverskan will release their rst new album since 2021’s “För Allting” on Friday. Titled “Glass and Bones,” the

10-track LP may very well be the best dream pop album of the year so far: Start with “Pity Party” — a ne reintroduction to singer Maja Milner’s idiosyncratic vocal tone and the band’s addictive guitar melodies — and build from there, to the chilly “Black Waters,” to the gothic confessional “Louie” and the lead track “Won’t Wait.” SERIES TO STREAM

Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” is back for Season 3 this week. The show follows for-

“Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Jocelyn Noveck, AP Film Writer

mer “Vanderpump Rules” cast members who traded West Hollywood for life north of Los Angeles, bringing marriages, kids, divorces and drama with them. Kristen Doute, Brittany Cartwright, Jason and Janet Caperna, Luke Broderick, Danny and Nia Booko, and Jesse Lally return. Former “Vanderpump” regulars Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz also join as full-time cast members. Notably absent: Jax Taylor, Cartwright’s ex, who won’t be returning. The season premiere hits Peacock on Thursday.

Hamm is back to stealing from his neighbors. His Apple TV series, “Your Friends & Neighbors,” launches Season 2 on Friday. Hamm plays a suburbanite who steals from his wealthy New York neighbors to maintain his upper-crust lifestyle. Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn and James Marsden also star.

Bravo also adds to its “Real Housewives” franchise with the debut of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” streaming Friday, April 3 on Peacock.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Darwin’s Paradox! looks like a throwback to classic arcade games, in which colorful mascots ran and jumped through tricky 2D landscapes. Darwin is an octopus who’s minding his own business when he’s suddenly ripped out of the ocean and thrown into a junkyard. As he tries to nd his way back home, he stumbles across a conspiracy that “could very well seal the fate of humanity.” Fortunately, Darwin has a big brain to go with all those useful legs. The adventure comes from France’s ZDT Studio, whose founders include the director of the terri c Dishonored series. It launches Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.

Egg-straordinary

Asheboro City Parks and Recreations held its annual Easter egg hunt at Zoo City Sportsplex on Saturday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Supreme Court rules 8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

Winston-Salem to issue new set of bonds

The $10.44 million will go toward various capital improvements

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald

WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem City Council met March 23 for its regular business meeting with an agenda consisting of various bond and public hearing items.

The council approved a resolution proposing their intention to issue $10.44 million in two-thirds general obligation bonds (series 2026 A and B), as well as the re nancing of $37.8 million in general obligation refunding bonds (series 2026 C).

“These projects were previously approved by council and progress is well underway,” said Chief Financial Ofcer Kelly Latham. “So at this time, it makes nancial sense

to go ahead and issue the debt.

The two-thirds general obligation bonds will go toward various capital improvement projects including street and sidewalks, parks and recreation, public safety, public facilities and housing.

The council will hold a public hearing on the bond orders on April 6.

The council also approved an application to be sent to the Local Government Commission to approve the re nancing of water and sewer system revenue refunding bonds series 2026 in an amount not to exceed $80 million.

“These bonds are the 2016 water and sewer revenue bonds and at this time it is still favorable to re nance these bonds,” Latham said. “The savings are still 6% versus our policy level of 3%.”

The council then held four public hearings.

The rst hearing was for a rezoning petition for 0.5 acres of

WS/FCS aiming to ll out new nancial leadership

The district aims to have a new CFO hired some time in April

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM

— At the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education’s March 31 meeting, the board was presented with a few nancial updates in regard to the district’s outstanding debt.

“After we make our payments that we have scheduled for the month of March and the application of the additional money that came in from the fundraisers, the total debt will be at $4,566,000,” said Superintendent Don Phipps. “With the payment we make in the month of April, we’ll have that under or just over $4 million. So we continue to make progress in that particular area.”

Phipps also stated that the district is bringing in new -

“At this time, it makes nancial sense to go ahead and issue the debt.”

Kelly Latham, chief nancial o cer

property located at the northeast intersection of Bloom eld Drive and Wilbur Street to go from RS9 to RM8-S.

The second hearing was also for a rezoning petition for 0.23 acres of property located south of Shallowford Street and north of High Street from LI to PB.

The third hearing was for proposed changes to the Unied Development Ordinance to alter regulations for mechanically stabilized slopes and retaining walls.

“This essentially removes some of the regulations from

nancial services leadership, with both an executive director of nance (Stacy Long) and director of payroll (Jennifer Del Rosario) being hired and a potentially new CFO on the horizon.

“I hope that we’re able to extend an o er to a CFO this week,” Phipps said. “We’re excited about that, but we want to make sure we have proper folks with credentials. There’s certainly been a lot of prescreening with that process, which has been di cult to nd individuals quali ed for that role, but we feel like we’re at a great place now as we move through that.” Long joins the district following 27 years of work at Wells Fargo, where she led a team working to design and manage compliance programs, streamline nance pro -

the UDO dealing with retaining wall height and just reserves that section and moves it to where it needs to be, which is with engineering approval in the city and with NCDOT and the county,” said Director of Planning and Development Services Chris Murphy.

The nal hearing was on proposed changes to the Winston-Salem Transit Authority route network.

The proposed changes include increasing the frequency of the most popular routes to every 30 minutes (81, 86, 89, 92, 93, 96, 103 and 105), cutting a few stops on various routes to make them more direct (87, 93, 104), testing out a new microtransit zone to replace route 97 and discontinuing less popular routes (82, 88, 97, 101, 102, 108, 109).

“We had many open houses and public forums, we were on the buses with literature, we were at the transportation center all day engaging with existing riders and then we had several meetings around town, and so we’ve received a lot of feedback,” said Director of Transportation Je Fansler.

The council is projected to vote on the changes at the Winston-Salem City Council’s next meeting, which will be on April 6.

“We feel like we’re at a great place now.”

Superintendent Don Phipps on the hiring process

cesses and increase e ciency.

Del Rosario comes to WS/FCS with 17 years of experience working in payroll services across eight di erent enterprises and four states.

The board then approved contracts with Associated Heating and Air Conditioning and Professional Air Systems for the replacement of ERV systems at Atkins and Reagan High School respectively.

“They do not run,” said Chief Operations O cer Lauren

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Richards on the systems. “They are quite aged at this point and are approaching 20 years. We have struggled for many years now with all ERVs. It is a piece of equipment that gives us a lot of trouble in a lot of places, and we are constantly doing repair work to them.”

The total cost for the replacements will be just under $740,000.

The board also approved an approximately $460,000 contract with Commercial Air Systems for the emergency replacement of the boilers at Winston-Salem Prep and a $57,000 contract with Westcott, Small and Associates (funded fully by the North Carolina Department of Transportation) for the design of carpool improvements at West Forsyth High School to improve que space.

The WS/FCS Board of Education will next meet April 14.

Seafood industry bets Americans will nally eat more sh if it looks more like meat

Companies are transforming sh into nuggets and meat sticks

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — The future of sh is looking a lot like… salami? And meatballs. And fried chicken. And breakfast sausage. And, of course, spareribs and burgers. This is America, after all.

Welcome to the era of surreptitious seafood, an industry gamble that overcoming Americans’ relative disinterest in the meat of the sea is all a matter of making sh look and taste less like, well, sh.

“Our Taiwanese magic is making tuna taste like fried chicken,” said Jack Chi, a spokesman for Tuna Fresh, a Taiwan-based company that sells tuna as fried “nuggets” and breaded chicken-tender-like strips. “We wanted to be able to engage in the U.S. market, and we found that fried foods are the way.”

Chi’s company was one of hundreds showcasing their products at the recent Seafood Expo North America in Boston. And among the sea of smoked salmons, scallops and all manner of crustaceans, one trend stood out: The seafood being pitched to the American market is looking less and less like seafood.

“It’s been a big trend for the last couple of years,” said Justin Rogers, a sales manager with SK Food Brands in Los Angeles. Among his company’s recent o erings: shrimp burgers, both slider-size and Whopper-worthy. “It makes it more palatable to people who aren’t big seafood fans. Especially with things like these sliders, it gives them an entry point.”

The sh-skeptical American palate

Americans have a notoriously limited appetite for seafood, consuming just about 19 pounds a year — a number that has budged only a bit in a century — most of it as shrimp and

salmon. The global average is 45 pounds, while some European countries clock in closer to 90 pounds. Iceland leads everyone with around 200 pounds per year.

Disguising seafood to appeal to Americans isn’t entirely new. After all, frozen sh sticks and McDonald’s Filet- O-Fish hardly scream catch of the day. But many of the newer products are an entirely di erent species. Or rather, are trying to be.

“It looks like a Slim Jim by design,” Harbor Bell Seafoods spokeswoman Holly Phillips said of the Seattle company’s salmon snack strips, available in smoked, lemon-pepper, mango and — curiously — original. “It doesn’t smell shy. It doesn’t taste shy.”

If an “original” salmon snack stick doesn’t taste shy, what DOES it taste like? After a couple chewy bites, let’s go with Slim Jim adjacent and move on.

Let sh be sh?

Not everyone thinks covert crustaceans are a good thing.

“Eat sh that looks like sh!” says Niaz Dorry, coordinating director of the North American Marine Alliance, an advocacy group for sustainable seafood practices. “The likelihood that that sh came from

a community-based, scale-appropriate entity is much higher if that sh still looks like what it was when it was swimming in the water. Factory scale and fake are the two F-words I tell everybody to avoid.”

The pivot to stealthy seafood comes at a critical time for the industry. The only real growth in sales has come from the sushi counter (looking at you, Gen Z) and price hikes (not exactly helping the cause). The $24 billion market otherwise has been at for years, with just 10% of shoppers accounting for nearly half of sales (seafood, apparently, is an all-in sort of thing).

Taking a lesson from sushi

Part of sushi’s appeal is its blend of convenience and novelty, said Steve Markenson, vice president of research and insights for consumer marketing rm FMI. Some of the newer products may o er similar appeal, but he’s not convinced it will be enough.

“The non-seafood folks — which is about 40% of the population — I don’t know that this is really going to be appealing to them,” he said. “They’re not looking to necessarily add seafood into their diet.”

Seafood lovers aren’t a sure bet, either. That 10% of dedicated seafood shoppers want it

for what it is, not cleverly disguised. “They love what they love about it,” Markenson said. “They might want it seasoned up a little, but they want that full-blown salmon.”

Oddly, the most likely audience may well be the one typically most averse to seafood — the very young, said Joshua Bickert, a seafood market reporter and analyst for Expana. “If you package it like hot dogs and hamburgers and chicken tenders, you maybe change that mindset at a younger age.”

For Mike Simon, owner of Hialeah, Florida-based Surfsnax, it’s a matter of making the foreign feel familiar. “We want to put it in a format that people are used to eating,” he said as he sliced o a round of his company’s salmon salami. “But it’s not hiding that it’s salmon.”

Not so sure about that. After being cured, shaped and served like a traditional salami, his product hardly looked seaworthy. But it was tasty.

Meaty spareribs, only made of sh

The most audacious o ering was sh spareribs from the Amazon. Brazilian tambaqui is a beefy freshwater sh that just happens to have a physique perfect for slicing into meaty, pork-like ribs. Friocenter Pescados spokesman Danillo Souza Alves was quick to point out that tambaqui sports a far higher meat-to-bone ratio on its ribs than pork. And truthfully, they do taste pretty meaty.

“It’s a nger food. You can easily eat it in stadiums for football, baseball and hockey,” he said.

Well, let’s not go crazy.

Americans do love a chip, however. And all manner of seafood are being turned into crackers, chips and crunchy sticks. Ina Park, a spokeswoman for the expo’s Korean pavilion, was eager to introduce Balance Grow’s Fried Calamari Snack, which looked like slightly malformed Utz Potato Stix. Park had other ideas.

“They taste like Cheetos,” she said.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

He’s trying for his former seat with an emphasis on the national debt

By Meg Kinnard and Je rey Collins The Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mark Sanford, the former South Carolina congressman and governor whose political ascendency was stalled by a 2009 a air, wants to return to Congress — again.

Just hours ahead of the deadline to do so, Sanford led candidacy paperwork with state o cials to run in the June 9 GOP primary for South Carolina’s 1st District seat, which he has held twice before.

Sanford’s rst political ofce was in the 1st District. An outsider with almost no name recognition, he navigated a primary for the open seat, nishing second before winning the runo . He served for six years before his outside run at governor, again pushing his

way through a crowded primary and then knocking o the last Democrat to hold the ofce. But his eight years were overshadowed by the Appalachian Trail, which became shorthand for Sanford’s dis-

appearance to go to Argentina to see his lover. Sanford’s wife, family and his sta didn’t know where he was. Beating back both an ethics inquiry and calls to resign, Sanford held fast, leaving ofce on his own terms.

In 2013, Sanford won back his old seat, beating 15 other candidates in a primary and runo . He won two more full terms before falling to a GOP challenger in 2018 who had President Donald Trump’s backing. The seat would go on to ip to Democratic hands that fall for the rst time in decades, won back by GOP Rep. Nancy Mace in 2020. Mace is running for governor this year.

Sanford, 65, also brie y ran for president in 2020, challenging Trump for the nomination in what he characterized as a “long shot” e ort around warnings about the national debt. Some, including Sanford’s former gubernatorial sta ers, initially questioned whether the e ort was a seri-

ous one, positing that it might be an e ort to stay relevant after the 2018 defeat.

Sanford dropped out of the contest just ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Sanford’s home state would ultimately opt not to hold a 2020 GOP presidential primary, clearing the way for Trump’s nomination in South Carolina. Sanford did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Monday. True to the themes that have dominated his political thinking, an email release on Sanford’s candidacy focused on the national debt, with the candidate saying he felt 1st District voters wanted a representative “who is an advocate for nancial sanity that has been lost in Washington for all too long.“ Since leaving the U.S. House, Sanford has hung onto more than $1.3 million in a federal campaign account, funds that he can now use in a primary already crowded with multiple Republican and Democratic candidates.

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Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while

proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt

into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Are we safe anymore?

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination.

In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence. Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope.

Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland

Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Apollo vs. Artemis: What to know about NASA’s return to the moon

Artemis brings greater diversity to humanity’s return to lunar orbit

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — NASA’s Apollo moonshots are a tough act to follow, even after all this time.

As four astronauts get set to blast o on humanity’s rst trip to the moon in more than half a century, comparisons between Apollo and NASA’s new Artemis program are inevitable.

The world’s rst lunar visitors orbited the moon on Apollo 8. The Artemis II crew will play it safe and zip around the moon in an out-and-back slingshot.

Another key di erence: Artemis re ects more of society, with a woman, person of color and Canadian rocketing away.

While Artemis builds on Apollo and pays homage to it, “there is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch, part of the Artemis II crew.

Here’s the lowdown on Apollo vs. Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as NASA targets the rst six days of April for lifto .

Run-up to the moon

It took NASA just eight years to go from putting its rst astronaut in space to putting Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in 1969, beating President John Kennedy’s end-of-decade deadline.

“The Apollo program still just absolutely blows me away,” said Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency, Artemis has progressed much more slowly, after decades of indecision and ip- opping between the moon and Mars as the next grand destination. NASA’s new moon rocket, the Space Launch System, or SLS, has soared only once in a test ight without anyone on board more than three years ago.

This plodding approach is why NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, overhauled the Artemis program in February. Keen to emulate Apollo, he added a mission between the upcoming Artemis II mission and the moon landing that’s now shifted to Artemis IV in 2028.

During next year’s revamped Artemis III, astronauts will stick closer to home the same way Apollo 9 did in 1969. Instead of attempting a moon landing as originally envisioned, they will practice docking their Orion capsule in orbit around Earth with one or both

lunar landers under development by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Je Bezos’ Blue Origin. The rival companies are accelerating work on their landers in a bid to be rst.

Political rivalries

The Soviets were America’s erce rivals during Apollo, but their moon rockets kept exploding at lifto and they eventually gave up. Now the Chinese are the competition.

China already has landed robotic spacecraft on the moon’s far side — the only nation to achieve that — and is scrambling to land astronauts near the lunar south pole by 2030.

NASA is aiming for the same polar region, where shadowed craters are thought to hold vast amounts of ice that could provide drinking water and rocket fuel. Like his predecessor Bill Nelson, Isaacman is deter-

mined to beat China to the nish line and win this second space race.

Moon rocket

Apollo’s Saturn V rockets stood 363 feet, with ve rst-stage engines. The Artemis SLS rocket comes in at 322 feet but packs more lifto thrust with its four main engines and two strap-on boosters. All but one Saturn V rocket soared from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39-A, now leased by SpaceX. NASA will use neighboring pad 39-B for all SLS ights. While the Saturn V launched twice before carrying astronauts, the SLS has own only once. Hydrogen fuel leaks delayed the SLS debut in 2022 and struck again during a countdown test in February, stalling Artemis II. Then helium trouble reappeared, causing further delay.

NASA is now targeting an April lifto . Launch Control remains at the same place. There was one woman in the packed ring room for the lifto of Apollo 11. Now a woman leads it: Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson.

First lunar crews

Apollo 8 still ranks as the gutsiest space mission of all time. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders became the rst humans to launch to the moon in 1968. Borman, the commander, insisted on as few lunar orbits as possible given the risks. He and his bosses settled on 10 orbits as a warmup for 1969’s moonwalk by Armstrong and Aldrin.

NASA decided long ago against orbiting the moon on Artemis’ crew debut, judging it too dangerous. The main goal is to test the Orion capsule’s life-support equipment, ying for the rst time.

One big similarity between Apollo 8 and Artemis II is the troubled times surrounding them.

“If we can contribute a little bit to hope for humanity,” said Artemis II pilot Victor Glover of NASA, “that is a huge thing.”

Shades of Apollo 13

The Artemis astronauts will orbit Earth for a day to make certain everything is working properly before igniting the main engine and heading for the moon. It will take three to four days for the capsule to reach the moon and continue some 5,000 miles beyond, ex-

ceeding the distance record set by 1970’s ill-fated Apollo 13. Like Apollo 13, Artemis II will take advantage of the moon and Earth’s gravity, making a gure eight after whipping around the moon to head home in what’s known as a free-return trajectory requiring little if any fuel. It got Apollo 13’s three astronauts safely back although they had to abandon their moon landing.

Artemis astronauts will parachute into the Paci c after their mission like the Apollo crews did.

Suiting up

For Apollo, the white, bulky spacesuits did double duty. What the astronauts wore for launch and return was the same for moonwalks since there wasn’t enough storage space for di erent out ts.

The Orion capsules for Artemis are bigger, designed to hold four astronauts instead of three plus two sets of spacesuits. NASA created brand new spacesuits for use inside the capsule, while turning to private companies for the moonwalking attire.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his crew will wear the orange custom- tted suits for launch and reentry. They’ll also use them in case of a depressurization or some other emergency. They can survive up to six days in the suits, inserting a straw into the helmet to sip water or protein shakes and relying on undergarment bags and bladders as a built-in toilet.

Houston-based Axiom Space is designing the white moonwalking suits that will accompany future Artemis crews.

Long-term goals

Apollo was all about beating the Russians to the moon and planting the U.S. ag. Astronauts landed six times from 1969 through 1972, with the longest surface stay lasting 75 hours. Five of the 24 Apollo astronauts who ew to the moon are still alive.

For the rst Artemis moon landing, a pair of astronauts could spend nearly a week there. It’s a complicated plan compared with Apollo.

Artemis moonwalkers will launch to the moon aboard Orion and, once in lunar orbit, transfer to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon, whichever is ready rst. They’ll descend to the surface, and, after a few days, blast back into orbit to rendezvous with their Orion capsule. Orion will be the astronauts’ ride home.

NASA is striving for sustained lunar living, with Mars to follow, although “day one of the moon base is not going to look like this glass-enclosed, domed city,” Isaacman said. Last week, he unveiled a blueprint for the moon base showing habitats, rovers, drones, power stations and more. NASA plans to invest $20 billion over the next seven years.

Forsyth SPORTS

Close sounds warning on coaching’s new grind as UCLA’s postseason run rolls on

NIL and transfer rules changes have made the job all consuming

By Doug Feinberg

The Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

Cori Close isn’t sure how much longer she will be coaching. The responsibilities of coaches have changed a lot in her 33 years in the game, especially in the last few years.

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this,” said Close, of No. 1 seed UCLA. “And I’m just being transparent with you about that. There are so many things that are harder, and we keep losing incredible people on the men’s and the women’s side.”

Between the transfer portal, name, image and likeness, and revenue sharing, coaching has changed. It’s not just about recruiting players from high school, but also now about keeping a team together each season and guring out how much money each player will make through revenue sharing.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley said she welcomes change and likes the challenge of guring out ways to be still be successful — something she’s excelled at with three national championships in the last nine years.

“When that leaves me, then I know it’s time for me to move on,” the 55-year-old Staley said.

Staley said she’s seen the sport become more transactional the last few years.

“We can try to keep core principles of who we are as coaches and the sanctity of the team,” she said. “For me, I coach from my

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this.”

Cori Close, UCLA coach

days being on the Olympic team. That is how I coach. Meaning I try to coach where the team is the team success. Then we know that individuals make up the success of a team. You deal with each player and have them try to get them in a position where they understand their worth.”

Staley has seen the change the last few years with the additions of NIL.

“NIL has really changed everything. Like it really has changed. I mean, how you have to move day to day. You got to make sure psychologically our kids are in a good place. Mentally, they’re in a good place, and they’re parents,” Staley said. “So you’re actually having to do a lot of work and if you’re not used to that part of it, you know, it will it will run you out of the business.”

Staley relishes the two hours each day that her team practices because nothing else enters the space at that time and she can just focus on coaching.

“The 22 hours beyond that, you have to go and exhaust yourself and make sure everyone is good from day to day, from week to week and de nitely in the postseason,” Staley said.

The transfer portal was moved this year to open the day after the national championship game, as opposed to during the NCAA Tournament.

“If there’s one thing I would

ask of our governing bodies and the NCAA and our administrations, it is please develop infrastructure and boundaries that create an opportunity to have sustained excellence and sustainable pace,” said Close, who is in her 15th season at UCLA. “Otherwise, we are going to continue to lose some of our best coaches, and I do not think our game can a ord to do that.”

Some longtime coaches have stepped down over the past few seasons for a variety of reasons, including for health issues. Others have mulled retirement.

Louisville coach Je Walz didn’t sound close to retirement when the 54-year-old in his 19th season with the Cardinals was told of Close’s comments.

“I’m friends with Cori,” Walz said. “My favorite line, I would tell her, if you don’t like your job, nd a new job. I mean, I’m listening this morning at 4:20 as the workers outside my window at the hotel in the street are working. I mean, you choose your profession. If you don’t like it, nd a new profession.”

“I mean, of course, it’s a lot of work, but we chose to do it and we get compensated for it,” Walz said. “I don’t think anybody is going to feel too sorry for us that you might be tired. I’m tired, too, but who is not?”

Wolverines coach Kim Barnes Arico said coaching fatigue is less about age and more about adaptation.

“A few years ago when all this started to come into play, I knew as a coach and I talked to our players and I talked to our sta , times are changing,” Barnes Arico said. “We need to evolve. We need to grow. We need to step up to the challenges, because if we can’t, the game, the landscape, all of it is going to pass us by.”

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Lucy Stoter

R.J. Reynolds, girls’ soccer

Lucy Stoter is a junior defender on the R.J. Reynolds girls’ soccer team. The Demons are 6-0-2 on the season and won three games last week.

Stoter’s goal was the game-winner in a 3-2 victory over Oak Grove. In a win over Parkland, she had three goals and an assist. Stoter leads the Central Piedmont 7A/8A conference in goals and points and is second in the league in assists.

From Tipperary to high-stakes SEC

By Ken Maguire

The Associated Press

LONDON — Ne Giwa

sometimes asks himself: “Is this really happening to me?”

Incredibly, yes.

The 20-year-old Irishman who has never played American football committed on Sunday to play at South Carolina as an o ensive lineman.

Giwa, who is also Nigerian, has come a long way — from Tipperary — in a short amount of time. Just a few months after showing an interest in the sport, he was touring U.S. college campuses, meeting coaches and collecting o ers.

It’s a lot to handle, even for someone who is 6 feet, 71⁄2 inches tall, weighs 295 pounds and has 37-inch-long arms and great foot speed.

“I knew that there’d be a journey there, but I could never have anticipated this,” Giwa, in an interview with The Associated Press, said of the whirlwind around his recruitment.

Giwa, whose full rst name is Oluwanifemi, selected the Gamecocks over o ers from Miami, UNC, SMU, Tennessee and Texas.

“Freakish numbers”

Giwa — pronounced with a hard G — heard about Brandon Collier through a friend familiar with the American’s track record of nding, training and placing international kids at U.S. college football programs. Collier, an American who played defensive line at UMass, runs PPI Recruits out of Germany.

Collier had Giwa visit him for a workout and immediately envisioned him protecting

quarterbacks.

“If you can create a tackle in a laboratory, this is what you want him to look like,” Collier told the AP.

It wasn’t just his size, though. Collier clocked Giwa at 4.88 seconds in the 40-yard dash and measured his broad jump at 9 feet, 10 inches — “pretty freakish numbers,” Collier noted.

“Then he has the toughness,” he added. “You can have all these measurements, but if you’re not tough mentally and physically then you probably won’t make it.” Collier was bringing his lat-

est group of recruits on campus tours earlier this month and decided to add Giwa — mostly just to introduce him to the process.

“I didn’t have expectations,” Giwa told the AP before Sunday’s announcement. “It was just to see what was out there, basically, and what to work towards.”

“Things kind of picked up.”

Here come the o ers

Not long after touching down in the U.S., Collier detoured to Toronto to check out another touted prospect. Giwa joined him.

“I had them do some pass

sets and some one-on-ones with some kids, he looked phenomenal,” Collier said of Giwa.

So he instructed Giwa to immediately create an X account so colleges could learn more about him. Collier then posted a couple of videos “and it went viral from there.”

“Miami, they messaged me literally 60 seconds after I posted it,” Collier said. “The head coach (Mario Cristobal) wrote me a message — ‘get him to Miami.’”

Like actually one minute?

“Literally 60 seconds, man,” Collier said. “The power of net-

“If you can create a tackle in a laboratory, this is what you want him to look like.”

Brandon Collier, PPI Recruits

working and social media. People know what I do.”

Giwa didn’t talk to Belichick

UNC would have been an intriguing choice not only to play for iconic coach Bill Belichick but also because the Tar Heels play their 2026 opener against TCU at Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

“I haven’t spoken to him personally,” Giwa said of Belichick.

Playing in his country someday would be great: “I was born in Ireland, and I was raised in Ireland. It de nitely would be cool and a bit of an honor to do that.”

Giwa is a small-town kid

Giwa grew up in Cashel, a town in County Tipperary with a population under 5,000 people.

His mother is a nurse and his father is a physiotherapist. Giwa, who has three older siblings, said they were the rst Nigerian family to move into town and that local residents “de nitely made us feel welcome.”

What does he tell everyone about college football and the facilities he’s visited?

“I tell them it’s a di erent world over there,” he said. Rugby, soccer, hurling and Gaelic football are the local sports.

Giwa credits Collier with creating life-changing opportunities. He’s not sure what he’d be doing otherwise.

“I’d just be a regular guy,” he said with a laugh, “doing what 90% of the world is doing, just trying to make a living. That’s why I’m so grateful because I’m able to do something that I really love now.”

SIDELINE REPORT

FIGURE SKATING

Malinin bounces back, wins 3rd straight world gure skating title

Prague Ilia Malinin reeled o one huge jump after another, and a back ip for good measure, to retain his world championship title for the third year running. Malinin landed ve high-scoring quadruple jumps but not his pioneering quad axel, a jump he didn’t attempt at the Olympics. Malinin scored 218.11 in the free skate for a total 329.40 on Saturday, far ahead of silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama of Japan on 306.67. Another Japanese skater, Shun Sato, was third on 288.54.

NBA Lakers’ Doncic suspended 1 game by NBA after 16th technical foul

New York Luka Doncic was suspended one game by the NBA after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. The league announced that Doncic was suspended after a scu e in the Lakers’ win over Brooklyn. Ziaire Williams yelled in Doncic’s space after an o ensive foul call. Doncic pushed Williams’ arm and Williams swiped across Doncic’s face. O cials reviewed the play and gave both players technicals. Under NBA rules, the 16th technical triggers an automatic suspension without pay.

NBA James passes to James for 3-pointer, NBA’s rst father-son assist

Los Angeles LeBron James literally passed it on to the next generation. The NBA says James recorded the league’s rst father-to-son assist when he passed to Bronny James for a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Brooklyn. The Lakers’ father-and-son duo played meaningful minutes together for the second straight game. Bronny James was on court with his father for nearly 41⁄2 minutes when they checked in together to start the second quarter.

WNBA

Sun reach deal to sell to Rockets owner, move team to Houston in 2027

The Connecticut Sun have reached an agreement to sell the team to Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta for $300 million and will move to Houston in 2027. The WNBA Board of Governors still needs to approve the sale and the move. The team will play in Connecticut for the upcoming season before moving to Houston and becoming the Comets. This will end a 23-year run by the team in New England after the team moved to Connecticut from Orlando in 2003.

Elliott beats Hamlin at Martinsville for 1st Cup Series win of season

It is the Hendrick driver’s 22nd career win

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

MARTINSVILLE, VA.

The strategy calls don’t always work out for Chase Elliott in the Cup Series. So when the plan comes together — as it did in a victory at Martinsville Speedway — it’s especially sweet for NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver and his legions of adoring fans.

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough,” Elliott said while celebrating on the frontstetch to huge cheers after his rst win this season and the 22nd of his career. “So just really, really grateful for the opportunity. I never take it for granted. Trust me, this is a dream come true for me.”

The 30-year-old from Dawsonville, Georgia, capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet earlier than the other contenders. When the caution ew on the 312th lap, Elliott was in second behind Denny Hamlin and pitted with the rest of the lead-lap drivers aside from Ross Chastain, who took the lead by staying on track.

Elliott took rst from Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota.

“It was de nitely a team effort,” Elliott said after his second win on the 0.526-mile oval. “That was awesome. So proud of Alan and the whole team. They did a great job, and we took a gamble. But just so proud of them. They put up with a lot, and they got to put up with me all the time. So I just appreciate them for sticking with me.”

Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Elliott, who has been voted NASCAR’s most popular driver annually since 2018, led 84

the boss calls you, it gets your attention.”

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough.”

Chase Elliott

laps in delivering the rst win this year for Hendrick Motorsports. The winningest team in Cup history has a record 31 victories at Martinsville.

Gustafson, whose calls are frequently second-guessed by one of NASCAR’s biggest fan bases whenever Elliott struggles, said he got a supportive call Sunday morning from team owner Rick Hendrick.

“He’s like, ‘Everything’s great, love you guys, playing the long game, and this is a marathon, not a sprint,’” Gustafson said in recounting the conversation. “But nevertheless, when

The decision was virtually a no-brainer for Gustafson after Elliott started 10th and ran mostly outside the top ve for the rst half of the 400-lap race.

“We were just kind of trapped in like the 10th spot,” Gustafson said. “It’s really hard to pass, and we just need to do something di erent. I just felt like it was worth a shot. And when we pitted early, I think it just drug a lot of guys down. Obviously, the caution’s great. It gave us track position, and the rest is history.”

Hamlin, who has a series-best six wins at Martinsville, started from the pole position and dominated, leading 292 of the rst 317 laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing star got shu ed from the lead during a pit stop sequence under a yellow ag that began on the 312th lap and then lost momentum on the en-

March Madness meets the iPad era

How coaches’ challenges are changing the

game

By Maura Carey The Associated Press

FLORIDA’S Boogie Fland was driving to the basket with 1:10 remaining and a three-point lead over Iowa when Hawkeyes forward Cooper Koch stepped into the lane, swatted at the ball and it sailed out of bounds. O cials ruled it Florida’s ball.

Iowa coach Ben McCollum quickly consulted video coordinator Jace Smith, who checked his iPad and nodded yes — go for it.

“I had a very clear view,” Smith said. “Once I saw it, I felt pretty con dent, so it was an instant yes. That was a big moment.”

McCollum challenged the call and won; Fland had touched it last. Iowa took possession and outscored Florida 5-1 in thenal minute to oust the defending champion and 1-seeded Gators with a 73-72 win and advance to the Sweet 16 for the rst time since 1999. That the tournament’s biggest thriller so far was set up in part by a coach’s challenge is something that wouldn’t have been possible in years past. This season is the rst where coaches are allowed to challenge certain calls by o ciating crews. The rule change was approved in June, and eight months later, it’s still an adjustment for even the most experienced sta s. When used correctly, a challenge can ip a game in seconds. But the Gators already knew that.

Florida’s chances of winning a mid-January game at Vanderbilt were slipping when video coordinator Nolan Crist

spotted an on-court tangle. He checked the iPad, sideline discussions commenced and what followed changed the game. Coach Todd Golden’s challenge revealed a hook-and-hold, which led to a seven-point swing and boosted Florida’s win probability by roughly 30%. The Gators went on to beat Vanderbilt by four.

Like Iowa, Florida turned to its video coordinator when challenges were introduced. Crist, like all the others, has seconds to make a recommendation.

NCAA men’s teams get one challenge per game and must have a timeout to use it. If the call is overturned, the timeout is retained and the team gets one other challenge. If the call stands, the timeout is lost and no further challenges are allowed. Challenges aren’t used in the women’s game, but coaches can appeal calls. There is no limit on the number of appeals, but a failed one can cost a team a timeout if available. An unsuccessful appeal without an available timeout results in a technical foul and two free throws and

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan (Crist, team video coordinator), he understands it’s his time to shine.”

Todd Golden, Florida coach

possession for the opponent. For Florida, when a potentially challenge-worthy play unfolds on the court all eyes turn to Crist.

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan, he understands it’s his time to shine and gure out what we need to do,” Golden said. A similar process is followed at NC State, where assistant general manager Patrick Stacy ran the system for the men’s team. Stacy keeps a tablet running next to him — sometimes on the oor next to his

suing restart. He also thought a loose wheel caused his handling to fade in the nal stage.

“(Elliott) did a good job of controlling the pace there,” Hamlin said. “It just really came from that bad restart I had. Just not much really I could have done, and it felt like we gave it our all. We’ll check it out here, but I just thought the wheel was loose here on that last run. Either way, these are just some of the races that get away from you and your career.”

The win came 11 years to the day of Elliott’s debut in the Cup Series. He nished 38th in the March 29, 2015, race that was won by Hamlin. Elliott said he was reminded of the anniversary at an autograph session Sunday morning.

“A couple fans that were here that day came up to me and told me about it,” Elliott said. “So I got to thinking about it. Really cool to kind of see all that come full circle.”

bench seat, other times leaning against the scorer’s table — while tracking play calls and lineups during the game.

“On any close play, I don’t wait for the call, I just instantly look down and watch the replay and then start clicking rewind,” Stacy said. “If I hear the call went our direction, I’ll obviously put the iPad down and stop reviewing it. If it didn’t, then my clock of that 10 to 15 seconds has started, and we’ve got to make a decision on if it’s the best option or to challenge or not.”

“It’s not just a one-person decision. Usually, you’ll hear from the bench what they think. … Then coach will look at it and we kind of come to a consensus,” Stacy said.

A complex dynamic with o cials

The introduction of challenges has changed dynamics beyond the bench. Video replays are now inaccessible to o cials until the nal two minutes of the game, meaning the bench has unseen angles at its disposal.

“It’s very easy for us to get the call right when we’re able to stare at the iPad right after, and these guys don’t have the luxury to do that,” Golden said. “It makes it a little bit of a ‘gotcha’ game, and I think it’s a little unfair for the refs that way.” Several conferences told The Associated Press they do not track challenges. But in 243 men’s basketball games at home arenas in the Southeastern Conference this season, there were 128 total challenges; 85 were reversed and 43 calls stood, a 2-to-1 ratio.

“It’s a little more accurate in how it’s o ciated,” Stacy said. “If you can switch to one or two calls a game to get them right, relative to ones that would be wrong in prior years, it rings truer to what the outcome should be.”

the stream

Two doses of Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Housemaid’ with Sydney Sweeney, Jon Hamm robs

Country singer Charley Crockett drops “Age of the Ram”

The Associated Press

AMANDA SEYFRIED starring in “The Testament of Ann Lee” and Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” returning for Season 3 are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also among the streaming o erings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Jon Hamm is back stealing in his Apple TV series “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Sydney Sweeney teams up with Seyfried for the steamy thriller “The Housemaid,” and Grammy-nominated country singer Charley Crockett o ers his album, “Age of the Ram.” MOVIES TO STREAM

Seyfried probably should have been nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Shakers founder Ann Lee in Mona Fastvold’s audacious and euphoric musical “The Testament of Ann Lee,” which is streaming now on Hulu. “The lm is absolutely not for everyone,” Jocelyn Noveck wrote in her AP review. “But Fastvold has undeniably created something we’ve never quite seen before; speaking of visions, her singular artistic vision lls every frame. And Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Another movie that scored with critics but didn’t necessarily nd a massive audience in theaters was “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” which is available now on Net ix. The zombie lm, directed by Nia DaCosta working o of an Alex Garland script, stars Jack O’Connell and Ralph Fiennes. In his AP review, Mark Kennedy wrote, “The fourth entry in an ever-more engrossing franchise is absolutely bonkers — and a triumph. It mixes dark, queasy disembowelment and laugh-out-loud humor in a way that both subverts the genre and leads a way out of it, too.” For something completely di erent, the Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” starring Jonathan Gro and Daniel Radcli e is also

coming to Net ix on Saturday. The box o ce sensation “The Housemaid” is on Starz. The Paul Feig lm starring Seyfried and Sweeney became a breakout hit in theaters, earning more than $396 million against a $35 million budget. Kennedy wrote in his review that it’s a “delicious, satirical look at the secret depravity of the ultra-rich, but it’s so well constructed that’s it’s not clear who’s naughty or nice. Halfway through, the movie zigs and everything you expected zags.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Grammy-nominated country singer Crockett enters the “Age of the Ram,” co-produced by Shooter Jennings, the third and nal chapter of his “Sagebrush Trilogy.” In true Crockett fashion, it’s equal parts old school country storytelling and forward-thinking future-casting. Singles “Fastest Gun Alive” and “Kentucky Too Long” are good places to start — Crockett’s idiosyncratic voice is all Old West air.

Everyone’s favorite Philadelphia-based, Medieval-obsessed punks Poison Ruin will release a new album, “Hymn from the Hills,” on Friday. Expect more of their classic sound — an inventive intersection of death

rock and chain mail — with increased ferocity. Or, as the album description reads, themes that include “spirits traversing sunless deserts and wilted hillsides, demonic torture objects limning the edges of the psyche, bodies trans gured into Luciferian snakes, Sadean prisoners bound to the screaming silence of abandoned castle towers.” You know, the usual. The great Swedish post-punk band Makthaverskan will release their rst new album since 2021’s “För Allting” on Friday. Titled “Glass and Bones,” the

10-track LP may very well be the best dream pop album of the year so far: Start with “Pity Party” — a ne reintroduction to singer Maja Milner’s idiosyncratic vocal tone and the band’s addictive guitar melodies — and build from there, to the chilly “Black Waters,” to the gothic confessional “Louie” and the lead track “Won’t Wait.” SERIES TO STREAM

Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” is back for Season 3 this week. The show follows for-

“Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Jocelyn Noveck, AP Film Writer

mer “Vanderpump Rules” cast members who traded West Hollywood for life north of Los Angeles, bringing marriages, kids, divorces and drama with them. Kristen Doute, Brittany Cartwright, Jason and Janet Caperna, Luke Broderick, Danny and Nia Booko, and Jesse Lally return. Former “Vanderpump” regulars Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz also join as full-time cast members. Notably absent: Jax Taylor, Cartwright’s ex, who won’t be returning. The season premiere hits Peacock on Thursday.

Hamm is back to stealing from his neighbors. His Apple TV series, “Your Friends & Neighbors,” launches Season 2 on Friday. Hamm plays a suburbanite who steals from his wealthy New York neighbors to maintain his upper-crust lifestyle. Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn and James Marsden also star.

Bravo also adds to its “Real Housewives” franchise with the debut of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” streaming Friday, April 3 on Peacock.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Darwin’s Paradox! looks like a throwback to classic arcade games, in which colorful mascots ran and jumped through tricky 2D landscapes. Darwin is an octopus who’s minding his own business when he’s suddenly ripped out of the ocean and thrown into a junkyard. As he tries to nd his way back home, he stumbles across a conspiracy that “could very well seal the fate of humanity.” Fortunately, Darwin has a big brain to go with all those useful legs. The adventure comes from France’s ZDT Studio, whose founders include the director of the terri c Dishonored series. It launches Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.

STATE & NATION

North Carolinian, three others make up rst planned mission to moon in half-century

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era. The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversied astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore,

was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade

moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will. As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wan-

na Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.” Despite having one space ight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as an much time and thought preparing them as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by

Apollo’s impatient old-timers rooting for NASA’s return to moon with Artemis II launch

Dwindling numbers are thrilled by Artemis but tired of decades of waiting

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The people who toiled night and day to put astronauts on the moon during Apollo are thrilled that NASA is nally going back. They just wish these Artemis moonshots had happened sooner while more of Apollo’s workforce was still alive.

Now in their 80s and 90s, the dwindling survivors of NASA’s greatest generation would also like to see more enthusiasm for Artemis.

So few of them are left from the original 400,000 that no reunion is planned to celebrate the upcoming Artemis II ight around the moon by four astronauts as soon as April 1. Those living near Florida’s Kennedy Space Center will watch the launch from their backyards.

“Because it was the rst time, there was an energy. There was a passion that probably is not exactly the same today and hasn’t been for a while,” said Charlie Mars, 90, who worked on Apollo’s command and lunar modules and helped establish the American Space Museum in nearby Titusville.

Retired engineer JoAnn Morgan is still fuming that the last three Apollo moon landings were canceled under President Richard Nixon’s watch because of budget cuts, risk concerns and shifting priorities. She was the lone woman inside launch control when Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins rocketed to the moon in 1969. Three years later, Apollo 17 closed out the grand era.

“I’m just trying to stay alive so I can see us actually get back and step foot on the moon,” she said. “I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

Morgan isn’t the only one frustrated with NASA’s —

“I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

JoAnn Morgan, retired engineer

and the nation’s — dawdling.

“It’s a good thing I’m not in charge,” Mars said, “because I would be out there beating the bushes and whipping up on people to get moving.”

One big di erence this time are all the women in key roles.

NASA’s Artemis launch director is Charlie Blackwell-Thompson. The Artemis II crew includes Christina Koch, who holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 consecutive days in orbit.

“It will be even greater when they actually have a woman who plants her boots on the moon,” Morgan said.

Apollo 16’s Charlie Duke points out that half the world’s population was not yet born

when he walked on the moon in 1972.

NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman, a tech billionaire who paid his own way to space twice, is one of them.

Apollo’s old-timers are heartened that the 43-year-old Isaacman is accelerating the pace of Artemis launches to more closely match Apollo’s speed and safety record. Artemis has been trudging along at a once-every-three-years ight rate, which Isaacman deems unacceptable.

He’s added a test ight in orbit around Earth to practice docking with lunar landers before they’re used to put astronauts on the moon. And last week, he released a blueprint for a moon base that, along with a battalion of lunar drones and rovers, is expected to cost $20 billion over the next seven years.

NASA’s self-described “moon base guy,” Carlos Garcia-Galan, promises “cool cameras” on everything to ramp up excitement. In the near term, the overrid-

NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

Dangers still loom — something he’s shared with his college-aged son and twin daughters. “The most likely outcome is that we will come back safe. There’s a chance we won’t, and you will be able to move through life even if that happens,” he assured them.

ing goal is to beat the Chinese to the lunar surface. NASA aims to land astronauts in 2028, China by 2030.

The U.S. trounced the Soviet space program in the rst race to the moon, landing 12 astronauts from 1969 through 1972. John Tribe, 90, who managed spacecraft propulsion for Apollo, considers NASA’s revised Artemis plan “a whole lot more sensible.”

“The other approach was ridiculous,” Tribe said. “Whether we’re going to beat the Chinese back, I don’t know.” Apollo 9’s Rusty Schweickart also likes the refashioned Artemis. As for topping Apollo’s excitement, though, good luck.

“We can all recall Columbus,” Schweickart said in an email, but who can remember “who came along 50 years afterward?”

One of only four moonwalkers still alive, Duke anticipates the thrill of Apollo will return once Artemis astronauts start landing, especially for the younger crowd that missed out before.

“If the rst ones are successful and we start landing at the south pole,” Duke said, “I think millions are going to be watching that. I know I will if I’m still here.”

Randolph record

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Supreme Court rules

8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court.

President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

County farm receives special distinction

The Dezern family took part in activities involving Small Farms Week

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — A Randolph County farm has received special recognition from the North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

Millboro and Co. Farm was the recipient of the Small Farmer of the Year for the Western Region in North Carolina. The owners are Elisabeth and Nick Dezern.

“We were thrilled to nominate the Millboro and Co. Farm for this award,” said Sophie Farlow, local foods agent for the Randolph Cooperative Extension. “Their commitment to enhancing agricultural practices while maintaining

sustainable operations is truly inspiring. They embody the spirit of innovation and leadership that we aim to recognize with this award.”

Millboro and Co. Farm grows a variety of vegetables that customers can purchase online and pick up at one of four locations. Its location has a Franklinville address on Mack Lineberry Road.

“We are very humbled with the consideration of the Small Farmer of the Year,” Nick Dezern said. “Our small farm is nothing without the community, so thank you to our customers for supporting us.”

The regional award made Millboro and Co. Farm a nalist for the state’s Small Farmer of the Year. At last week’s banquet in Greensboro, the winner of that award was Darius McKoy of Sampson County.

The Dezerns felt honored nonetheless and expressed pride in taking part in the event.

“We shared the room with 500 people who, like us, believe in small farming in NC,” they wrote on a Facebook post. “Along this journey

Tillis, other senators to visit Taiwan before Trump’s summit with China’s Xi

Lawmakers look to improve ties with Taiwan, Japan and South Korea

By Stephen Groves The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of four senators has plans to visit Taiwan, Japan and South Korea in the coming days on a trip meant to bolster U.S. alliances seen as important to countering China’s dominance in Asia. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, announced the trip Saturday. She will be joined by Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). Their visits to Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul are coming before President Don-

ald Trump’s trip to Beijing in May for a rescheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The lawmakers’ stop in Taiwan could draw scrutiny from China, which opposes such relations and sees them as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over the self-governing island. Taiwan relies on American backing for its democracy, but recent moves by Trump, such as discussing a potential weapons sales to Taiwan with Xi, have raised questions about the future direction of U.S. policy.

Analysts in both China and the United States believe Xi, through the leader-level summit, will try to in uence Trump to soften the U.S. stance on Taiwan.

“This bipartisan delegation demonstrates Congress’ commitment to these alliances and

partnerships is unwavering and will endure well beyond any one administration,” Shaheen said in a statement. In a show of reassurance to the Asian allies, the lawmakers plan to meet with political leaders and defense o cials on their trip.

“Our alliance with Taiwan is one of the most strategically and morally signi cant partnerships America has in the Indo-Paci c,” Curtis said.

It remains to be seen how Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, Iran and elsewhere could in uence other powers such as China and Russia. But there is some concern among lawmakers that the Republican president’s actions could be seen as giving those countries an opening

(USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

(ISSN 2768-5268)

Apprenticeship Randolph holds kicko event

A three-day introduction gave area students a sampling of the program

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — Sever-

al businesses representing local industries took part in last month’s Apprenticeship

Randolph.

A three-day event welcomed new high school applicants as part of orientation week.

“We are seeing a renewed focus on manufacturing and skilled trades in our state and certainly here in Randolph County,” said David Hursey,

director of existing industry for Randolph County Economic Development Corporation.

“These young students are taking the rst steps in a pathway that will lead many to six gure careers. Some will eventually start their own business after they learn necessary skills, the important thing to know is career opportunities exist right here in our county that do not require a four-year degree or college debt.”

The program included a tour of Randolph Community College, hands-on exercises in areas such as machining, mechatronics, metrology, measurements and spatial visual-

Ag center to hold festival with tours, demonstrations

The event is free with family-related themes

Randolph Record sta ASHEBORO — A festival with family themes will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 11 at the Randolph County Agricultural Center. The Common Ground Festival will include tours of the new campus, with visitors able to see the event center, James River Equipment

FARM from page A1

we’ve had the opportunity to meet commissioners, deans, past winners of the NC Small Farmer of the Year award, and so many other great people making an impact in

Arena and meeting rooms.

Tractors will be on display, providing an educational experience to learn about machinery that supports the agricultural community. The festival will o er various animal interactions (including the u y Highland Cows from Cellar Creek Farm) and photo opportunities. There will be 4-H activities. There will be a workshop and taste testing in the demo kitchen.

The Randolph Commu-

the small farm community.”

There was a message from the Dezerns.

“Our kids — your kids — they deserve a future where food is not shipped across borders,” they wrote. “They deserve the freshest food,

ization, along with team-building activities focused on lean manufacturing principles, according to information from RCEDC.

Participating companies included Dart, Energizer, Hubbell Industrial Controls, Oliver Rubber Company, Pemmco Manufacturing, Post Consumer Brands, Sapona Plastics and United Brass Works. Those companies made presentations and worked with students through networking and interview-style interactions.

Apprenticeship Randolph provides a combination of classroom instruction with paid, on-the-job training.

nications Digital Skills Lab will o er hands-on activities for children and adults, while the gardener lab and greenhouse will o er stimulating workshops.

The NC Rooted Community Agriculture organization will be on-site to share the bene ts of the future Food Hub for producers and consumers, organizers said. The concession stand will be open in the event center with items available for purchase.

Also, the Randolph Extension Community Association will have its annual yard sale taking place. There will be prize giveaways. There is no admission charge. The event is a collaborative e ort with the Randolph County Agricultural Center, Randolph County Cooperative Extension, and Randolph County Soil and Water.

food grown in non-depleted soils, nutrient-dense food, food that is medicine.”

Previously, the Dezern family was presented the regional award during a ceremony at Randolph County Agricultural Center.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County.

April 2

Thrifty Thursday Senior Movie — “Barefoot in the Park” 1 p.m.

The Sunset Theatre’s Thrifty Thursday series presents the 1967 romantic comedy “Barefoot in the Park,” starring Robert Redford and Jane Fonda, as part of its regular senior-focused afternoon matinee program. asheboronc.gov/sunset_ theatre/events/index.php Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Now through April 4

Easter Bunny at Asheboro Mall

Free family-friendly Easter celebration with photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.

Monday – Friday:

to

April 7

to

42nd Annual Juried Art Show — Gallery Opening

The Randolph Arts Guild’s 42nd Annual Juried Art Show opens at the Sara Smith Self Gallery, featuring original artwork by local and regional artists selected by juried competition. The exhibit runs through May 1, 2026. randolphartsguild.com/ juried-art-show

Sara Smith Self Gallery, Randolph Arts Council 123 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

April 10

Liberty Farmers Market — Season Opening 3 p.m.

The Liberty Farmers Market opens for its 2026 season, operating Fridays from 3-6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November. Friday is the opening day of the new season. liberty-nc.com/ departments/recreation/ farmers-market

Liberty Farmers Market 423 West Swannanoa Ave. Liberty

TAIWAN from page A1

for their own foreign moves. The economic relationship with Taiwan has also come under scrutiny from the Trump administration. The U.S. is reliant on Taiwan for its production of computer chips, which contributed to a trade imbalance of nearly $127 billion during the rst 11 months of 2025.

The Trump administration reached a deal with Taiwan in February that removed 99% of its trade barriers. During another visit by a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers last year, they emphasized that the U.S. would continue to partner closely with Taiwan.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while

proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination.

In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence. Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope. Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland

into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Rochelle Tyl

April 25, 1941 –March 21, 2026

Rochelle Eileen Meyerson Wolkowski Tyl, born April 25, 1941, in Connecticut, died peacefully on March 21, 2026.

Shelley was a brilliant spit re of a child, fearless and attentiongrabbing. Her father, Phil, told me that when she was four or ve, he would stand her up on a crate at the local grocery store and she would belt out the song “Pistol Packin’ Mama,” complete with choreography of her own design. She loved reading and learning, and throughout her entire life, she was never shy about sharing her knowledge. Her sister, Joanie, remembers that once their mother, Ann, had to go speak with the elementary school administrators because Shelley was so excited she would shout out all the answers in her classes. As an adult, she was truly terrifying to play trivia games with.

As a young adult, she believed strongly in civil rights, environmental causes and feminism, all informed by her voracious reading habits. She was a proud graduate of the University of Connecticut, Storrs (BA 1963 and PhD 1968), one of the few women in her eld of biological sciences at the time. She was told by a professor once to avoid her PhD and instead pursue her Mrs. Much to the chagrin of that professor, she did both. That Mrs. didn’t last, but the PhD did.

She met the love of her life, Thomas Wilson Tyl, in the early 1970s. They were married in 1976 and were together until his untimely death in 2011 at the age of 55. In those intervening 35 years, Shelley would go on to become a famous and world-renowned reproductive toxicologist, contributing her cutting intelligence to the eld as a researcher, writer, peer collaborator, popular speaker, lecturer, and conference panelist. She would move from supervisor, to manager, to director of programs that changed the landscape of reproductive science, making pregnancy safer

April 14, 1934 –March 27, 2026

Gloria Fayetta Miller Craven, age 91, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, and went to be with the Lord.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Garry Reeder o ciating. A burial will follow at 1 p.m. at Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery.

Fayetta was born on April 14, 1934, in Wheelwright, Kentucky, one of eleven children. As a young adult, she relocated to Thomasville, where she was rst employed by Belk-Yates. She later began a long and dedicated career with Thomasville Furniture Industries, where she worked for 25 years.

After moving to Thomasville, she met and married Rayvaun “Cricket” Miller in 1953, and together they had two children. They remained married until his passing in 1979. In 1980, she

obituaries

for women and babies healthier around the globe. If you were born in the last 40 years or had a baby then, please pause a moment and thank the scientists like my mother who dedicated and dedicate their lives to the unglamorous life of testing and approving drugs, pesticides, additives, preservatives, herbicides, and chemicals that our species endlessly creates but does not adequately fear.

She published over 85 articles, over 90 book chapters, monographs, abstracts and over 35 study reports. She was a wonderful colleague and coauthor who was as professionally popular as she was charming.

She loved science ction, almonds, her dogs and Marlboros, sacri cing only the cigarettes once she hit 50. She had in nite wonder about the natural world, space and science, and she was so genuine in that wonder that even as an adult, she could e ortlessly charm you and teach you about bony sh evolution, the planets or the ecosystem of a backyard stream.

Shelley had two children, Jenifer Lynn Wolkowski and Je rey Thomas Tyl. She was a truly terrible cook, and, if it can be believed, an even worse housekeeper. The domestic world never interested Shelley at all, but she gave both to her children, her most amazing legacies: an insatiable curiosity, a fantastic vocabulary and a sharp wit.

Jenifer was born in 1970 and owes the greatest joy of her life –reading – to her mother, who with that early gift transformed her world and made her a teacher.

Je rey was born in 1981, married to Lesley Fair Tyl with three amazing children Braydon (17), Holt (16), and Levi (12) and Shelley’s only grandchildren. Shelley was utterly devoted to her husband, Tom, and she lived for him and his adventures. Through them all – educational, employment and travel – she was his unfailing support. Tom’s death broke Shelley, and she was never the same.

Her glorious brain, her biting sarcasm, and her in nite wonder were all robbed from her by dementia, but the 70 years she had with all her pistons ring were better years for all of us because of her presence. The 14 years she spent sliding into darkness were the worst of her life, chipping away and erasing utterly the person she was—all the good and the bad.

Her adorable, infectious laugh will be missed, her mashed potato, canned pea, and tuna surprise, much less so. I miss you, Mom.

married Loyd C. Craven, who preceded her in death in 2024. Fayetta is survived by her children, Dennis Keith Miller of Pinehurst and Terri Miller Swaney (Gregory) of Thomasville; her siblings, Estella Hall Kearns (Ed) of Denton, Carl Ray Hall of Asheboro and Evan Hall Jr. (Sherry) of Seagrove; her grandchildren, Stefanie Swaney Smoot (Scott) of Thomasville, Kacie Miller Teeter (Kyle) of Statesville and Cameron Keith Miller of Holden Beach; and her great-grandchildren, Anna Redding Teeter, Charlotte Teeter, Grace Teeter and Faith Teeter, all of Statesville. She is also survived by three stepchildren: Ann Gilliland of Seagrove, Deborah Willet of Franklinville and Mark Craven of Asheboro.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Reonna Hall Johnson (Sylvan), Jesse Hall (Ruby), Bobby Hall (Eda), Ernie Hall, Shirley Hall Daniel (Roscoe) and Louise Hall Welch (Russell). Fayetta devoted her life to her family and was known for her kindness, loving nature, and the warmth she shared through her home-cooked meals. She will be remembered for her deep love of family and her steadfast faith, which she faithfully demonstrated as a devoted member of Richland Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the choir.

The family will receive friends from 10-10:45 a.m. on Tuesday at Ridge Funeral Home prior to the service.

James Junior Allmon

May 23, 1935 –March 25, 2026

James Junior Allmon, age 90, of Asheboro, passed away on March 25, 2026, at the home of his daughter, Loretta. Mr. Allmon was born in Asheboro on May 23, 1935, to Thad and Wilma Trotter Allmon.

James was employed with Harvest Milling Company, which later became Smith Douglas Farm Service, and Asheboro Farm and Garden. Following his retirement, James worked for Weston’s Feed and Seed. He was a volunteer with the AshRand Rescue Squad for 28 years.

James was a member of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church. James loved riding his four-wheeler, woodworking, and gardening. He enjoyed shing, hunting, and traveling. James loved his family

Joyce Dillow

March 26, 1959 –March 22, 2026

Joyce Mary Evans Dillow, age 66, of New London, passed away on March 22, 2026, at The Randolph Hospice House after a courageous battle with her health. She was born March 26, 1959, in Logan, West Virginia, the daughter of the late Lloyd Evans and Florence Workman Evans. In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her sister, Joan Evans England and brother, Neil Evans.

Joyce’s life was a testament to her love for family, faith and the simple joys of life. As an active member of Baden Shores Chapel, she found immense ful llment in her faith and in being part of the women’s ministry, where she inspired others with her warmth and compassion. Her heart was forever drawn to the water, whether on cherished trips to Myrtle Beach or peaceful days by the lake at home. There, under the sun, Joyce found her serenity and strength. Her passion for planting seasonal owers was evident with the vibrant blooms that surrounded her home. In her role in Human Relations at Piedmont Chemical Industries, Joyce dedicated herself to helping others discover motivation, faith, and their true purpose. Her ability to connect with and uplift those around her left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Above all, Joyce treasured the time she spent with her beloved husband, son, and grandchildren. These cherished moments became the heart of her world and created countless beautiful memories. Joyce’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and in the hearts of those who loved her.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 47 years, Doug Dillow; son, Jeremy Douglas Dillow (Samantha); grandchildren, Ashton Dillow, Kyle Dillow, Annabelle, and Charlie; sister, Alma Evans; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Baden Shores Chapel in Baden Shores, North Carolina. Times and dates will follow soon.

The family would like to thank the sta at The Randolph Hospice House for their compassionate care of Joyce throughout her illness and the church family that lifted her up in prayer.

and loved to eat. He loved telling stories about growing up and life.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Varner Allmon, granddaughter, Heather Lynn Ledwell, great-granddaughter, Rayna Novash, and ve brothers, Lee Roy, Fred, Frank, Billy and Bobby.

He is survived by his children, Loretta East (Gerald) of Sophia, Jimmy Allman (Beverly) of Asheboro, David Allmon (Teresa) of Asheboro, Lisa Jones (Jerry) of Vanceboro, Carolyn White (Junior) of Asheboro, and Amanda “Marie” Allmon of Asheboro; 12 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren, one greatgreat-grandchild; brother, Johnny Allmon (Ruby) of Asheboro; and sister, Betty Thomas (Kermit) of Asheboro.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro, and other times at the home of Loretta & Gerald East. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Glenn “Mac” Pugh Chapel with Rev. Brian Faircloth o ciating. Interment will follow at Randolph Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the Ash-Rand Rescue Squad, 805 S. Cox St., Asheboro, NC 27203 or the Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361.

Donna Brim

Oct. 10, 1961 –March 22, 2026

Donna Kay Tuttle Brim, age 64, of Asheboro, passed away peacefully at her home on March 22, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born October 10, 1961, in Guilford County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Donald Lee Tuttle and Mildred Lucille Watson Tuttle. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Timothy Allen Brim, and her brother, Kenneth Tuttle. Donna leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. Her life was a testament to the simple joys that bring profound happiness. She found immense peace at the beach, enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean waves and the sand beneath her feet. Her family was her most cherished gift, and time spent with her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren lled her days with joy and purpose. An avid reader, Donna’s love for literature spanned from the thrilling works of Stephen King to the heartfelt narratives of Nicholas Sparks. She also had a natural a nity for animals, drawn to their quiet companionship and unconditional love. Her quick wit and infectious sense of humor brought light to everyone around her. Donna will forever be remembered for her boundless devotion to family and friends; her warmth, wisdom and unwavering love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Angel Zambrano and husband Mario, and Jaime Dunn and husband Joshua; son, Andy Brim; grandchildren, Corey, Bryanna, Chad, Dakota (Makayla), Christian, Hailey, Morgan and Gabrielle; great-grandchildren, Kason and Jessie, with one greatgrandchild on the way, Damian; brother, Je rey Tuttle Sr.; canine companions, Daisy and Marley; and numerous other beloved family members and friends.

Barbara Louise Parsons

July 13, 1935 –March 23, 2026

Barbara Louise Parsons, 90, of Randleman, died Monday, March 23, 2026, at Brookstone Haven of Randleman.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Oaklawn Cemetery, Asheboro.

Ms. Parsons was born in Montgomery County, NC, on July 13, 1935, the daughter of the late Allen Thomas Parson Sr., and Carrie May Lamonds Parsons. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Ms. Parsons was preceded in death by her sister, Josephine Haywood, and brother, Allen Parson Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Denise Greene; son, Cli Maness (Catherine); grandchildren, Christina Maness, Courtney Beverage (John); greatgrandchildren, Henry Beverage, Wesley Beverage and Olivia Beverage.

March 12, 1949 –March 21, 2026

Benny Lee Ward Sr., 77, of Asheboro, died Saturday, March 21, 2026, at his home.

Born on March 12, 1949, in Surry County, NC, Benny was the son of the late Lee Holiday and Ida Mae Whitaker Ward. He loved watching westerns on TV, working on old cars, and riding motorcycles. Benny also enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach.

Benny was an avid gardener. In addition to his parents, Benny was preceded in death by his grandson, Daquan Brannick. Survivors: are his daughters, Qiana Wade, Latisha Brannick, Margaret Ann Brannick, Allatrice Wade; sons, Jerron Jordan, Octavius Boon, Benny Ward Jr., Robert Wade, John Wilson; one brother; one sister; special niece, Barbara Faulkner; an a host of grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m., Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203.

Joseph Matthew “Jojo” Riggins

March 7, 1975 –March 25, 2026

Joseph Matthew “Jojo” Riggins, fondly known to many as Jojo, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina, at the age of 51.

Born on March 7, 1975, Jojo grew to be a man of great strength and character. He dedicated his professional life to operating heavy equipment in the construction eld, a career that often took him out of town but allowed him to contribute signi cantly to numerous projects over the years. His work was not just a job but a testament to his dedication and skill.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Jojo was a man who found joy and solace in the simple pleasures of life. He cherished spending time with his family and had a profound love for the outdoors. Fishing and hiking were among his favorite pastimes, allowing him to connect with nature and nd peace. The beach held a special place in his heart, o ering moments of tranquility and re ection.

Jojo’s life was enriched by the love and companionship of his wife, Davina Riggins, with whom he shared a deep bond. They enjoyed 16 years of friendship, dated for three years, and celebrated six years of marriage. Together, they created a home lled with warmth and laughter. He is survived by his parents, Roy and Margaret Riggins, who instilled in him the values of hard work and integrity. Jojo also leaves behind his four brothers, whose shared memories will forever keep his spirit alive. His legacy continues through his children—Noah Riggins, Nevada Riggins, Naven Riggins, Ashley Garner, AJ Jarrells, Alicia Sanborn, Amber McClintock, and David Philips—and his cherished thirteen grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

Though no services are scheduled at this time, the impact Jojo had on those around him is immeasurable.

His memory will be treasured by all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

In his nal act of compassion, Jojo became an organ donor, saving three lives and o ering hope to families in need. His decision to give even in death is a testament to his unwavering spirit and love for humanity.

Though he is no longer with us, Jojo’s memory will continue to inspire us all to live with purpose, love without condition, and give without hesitation. His life reminds us of the beauty in sel essness and the enduring impact one person can have on the world.

May he rest in peace, secure in the knowledge that his life was one well-lived and full of love.

Annie Andrews

June 30, 1938 –March 27, 2026

Annie Lee Andrews, age 87, of Asheboro, NC, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 30, 1938, in Silk Hope, NC, Annie was the daughter of Everett and Cladie Perry. From the start, she was a strong and determined young lady. This spirit would carry on into adulthood and help her overcome many challenges in her life. In her earlier years, she was a successful saleswoman who won many awards. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed taking trips, and you would often nd her in Cherokee, playing the slots. She also played the piano in church and cross-stitched blankets for all the newborn babies, which both brought her great joy. She never missed a Carolina basketball game and was a loyal Tar Heel fan. She loved working puzzles and watching her soap operas, or as she called them, her “stories.” She will be remembered for her strength, her stubborn spirit, and the love she had for her family. Annie, also lovingly known as “Nannie,” is survived by her daughters, Cindi Rich (Rodney), Terrie Bryant, and Myra Flinchum (Dean). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Leah Giovinazzo (Patrick), Kristen Rich (Brian Sharpe), Brittiany Byrd (Jared), Adam Bryant (Christina), Clay Flinchum, Cade Flinchum and Logan Bryant. She has six great-grandchildren: Augustus Giovinazzo, Julian Giovinazzo, Athen Giovinazzo, Avery Byrd, Harper Byrd and Deacon Sharpe. She was preceded in death by her son, Tal Andrews; grandson, Alexander Bryant; sister, Mildred Honeycutt; and parents, Everett and Cladie Perry. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.

Elizabeth Brooks

Feb. 2, 1947 – March 27, 2026

Mary Elizabeth Wieters Brooks, 79, of Asheboro, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at The Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church, with Dr. Jody Harrison o ciating. Burial will follow at Hoover’s Grove Wesleyan Church Cemetery. Elizabeth was born on February 2, 1947, in Bryson City, NC. The daughter of the late John Christopher Wieters and Maria Saunders Wieters. She was a dedicated hard worker who retired from Randolph Community College and worked for South Western Randolph High School, Middle School, and the YMCA. Elizabeth loved the thrill of winning a bid at auction sales and had a knack for being able to nd a forever home for a stray animal. She will always be remembered as being protective and nurturing for her family. Elizabeth loved her family; her children and her grandchildren were her world.

In addition to her parents, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her son, Christopher Thad Brooks.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Lester Lynn Brooks; daughter, Lydia Nance (Steven); sons, Clay Brooks (Rhonda), Daniel Brooks; grandchildren, Jacob Nance, Jadon Nance, Rachael Brooks, Shylee Brooks, Ashlyn Nance, Aviana Nance, Abigail Nance and Aliza Nance.

The family will receive friends from 9:45-10:45 a.m., Wednesday at the church prior to the service.

The family wants to thank all the sta from the Emergency Department, to ICU and Recovery at High Point Regional Hospital for the care shown to Elizabeth.

Memorials may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 4836 Robbins Circle, Asheboro, NC 27205.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Randolph Record at obits@randolphrecord.com

Actor James Tolkan of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ fame dies at 94

The actor spent 25 years in New York theater before his lm career

The Associated Press

JAMES TOLKAN, known for his roles as authoritarian gures in the hit lms “Back to the Future” and “Top Gun,” has died. He was 94. Tolkan died last Thursday in Lake Placid, New York, where he lived, his booking agent, John Alcantar, said Saturday. A brief obituary published on the “Back to the Future” website

said Tolkan died “peacefully,” but no cause of death was given. In “Back to the Future,” Tolkan portrayed the bow tie-wearing vice principal Gerald Strickland, who eyeballed students for trouble in the halls of the ctitious Hill Valley High School — in particular Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox.

“You got a real attitude problem, McFly,” Tolkan’s character says in the 1985 lm. “You’re a slacker. You remind me of your father when he went here. He was a slacker, too.” Tolkan also appeared in “Top Gun” as commanding o cer

Betty Latham

Jan. 15, 1945 –March 28, 2026

Betty Latham, of Asheboro, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Randolph County Hospice House. Betty was born on January 15, 1945, in Chuckey, Tennessee, to Theodore and Emma Landers. Betty was an employee of First National Bank for 39 years, where she held many positions and was loved by her coworkers. She was a faithful member of Back Creek, where she served as treasurer, a choir member, and played the piano. One of Betty’s favorite pastimes was shopping. You would never nd Betty away from the house without her lipstick.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Garland Latham, and her parents, Theodore and Emma Landers.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Tina Latham; brother, Andrew Landers (Gail); niece, Candice Chandley (Chris); greatnephew, Kaden Chandley; and other extended family members. A graveside service is scheduled for Mrs. Latham this Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Back Creek Friends Meeting, 147 Back Creek Church Road, Asheboro, NC 27205. Pastor John Voncannon will be o ciating.

Betty Jean Williams

Dec. 18, 1938 –March 24, 2026

Betty Jean Williams, 87, of Thomasville, died Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Pine Ridge Health & Rehabilitation in Thomasville.

There are no services scheduled at this time.

Betty was born on December 18, 1938, in Hendersonville, NC, the daughter of the late William Jason Williams and Allie Vaughn Williams Bedding eld. She was formerly employed with Sky City and later retired as a store manager for Family Dollar in Thomasville.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her exhusband, Benny Proctor.

Betty is survived by her children, Katrina Varner (Tim) of Lansing, NC, Teresa Rich (Macon) of Staunton, VA, Raven Keene (Donald), Eugene Cox (Wanda) of Thomasville, NC, Doug Proctor (Tommye) of Kernersville, NC; eight grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

Tom “Stinger” Jardian. Near the end of the lm, when Jardian asks Tom Cruise’s character, Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, about his choice for future duty, Mitchell replies that he wants to be a Top Gun instructor.

“God help us,” Tolkan’s character replies, laughing.

This undated image provided by the

shows

Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated from high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He eventually made his way to New York, where he spent a quarter century acting in theater roles. He was a member of the original ensemble cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who said in a statement that her husband also was an avid art collector and adored animals.

STATE & NATION

North Carolinian, three others make up rst planned mission to moon in half-century

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era.

The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversied astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore,

was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade

moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will. As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wan-

na Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.” Despite having one space ight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as an much time and thought preparing them as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by

Apollo’s impatient old-timers rooting for NASA’s return to moon with Artemis II launch

Dwindling numbers are thrilled by Artemis but tired of decades of waiting

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The people who toiled night and day to put astronauts on the moon during Apollo are thrilled that NASA is nally going back. They just wish these Artemis moonshots had happened sooner while more of Apollo’s workforce was still alive.

Now in their 80s and 90s, the dwindling survivors of NASA’s greatest generation would also like to see more enthusiasm for Artemis.

So few of them are left from the original 400,000 that no reunion is planned to celebrate the upcoming Artemis II ight around the moon by four astronauts as soon as April 1. Those living near Florida’s Kennedy Space Center will watch the launch from their backyards.

“Because it was the rst time, there was an energy. There was a passion that probably is not exactly the same today and hasn’t been for a while,” said Charlie Mars, 90, who worked on Apollo’s command and lunar modules and helped establish the American Space Museum in nearby Titusville.

Retired engineer JoAnn Morgan is still fuming that the last three Apollo moon landings were canceled under President Richard Nixon’s watch because of budget cuts, risk concerns and shifting priorities. She was the lone woman inside launch control when Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins rocketed to the moon in 1969. Three years later, Apollo 17 closed out the grand era.

“I’m just trying to stay alive so I can see us actually get back and step foot on the moon,” she said. “I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

Morgan isn’t the only one frustrated with NASA’s —

“I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

JoAnn Morgan, retired engineer

and the nation’s — dawdling.

“It’s a good thing I’m not in charge,” Mars said, “because I would be out there beating the bushes and whipping up on people to get moving.”

One big di erence this time are all the women in key roles.

NASA’s Artemis launch director is Charlie Blackwell-Thompson. The Artemis II crew includes Christina Koch, who holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 consecutive days in orbit.

“It will be even greater when they actually have a woman who plants her boots on the moon,” Morgan said.

Apollo 16’s Charlie Duke points out that half the world’s population was not yet born

when he walked on the moon in 1972.

NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman, a tech billionaire who paid his own way to space twice, is one of them.

Apollo’s old-timers are heartened that the 43-year-old Isaacman is accelerating the pace of Artemis launches to more closely match Apollo’s speed and safety record. Artemis has been trudging along at a once-every-three-years ight rate, which Isaacman deems unacceptable.

He’s added a test ight in orbit around Earth to practice docking with lunar landers before they’re used to put astronauts on the moon. And last week, he released a blueprint for a moon base that, along with a battalion of lunar drones and rovers, is expected to cost $20 billion over the next seven years.

NASA’s self-described “moon base guy,” Carlos Garcia-Galan, promises “cool cameras” on everything to ramp up excitement. In the near term, the overrid-

NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

Dangers still loom — something he’s shared with his college-aged son and twin daughters. “The most likely outcome is that we will come back safe. There’s a chance we won’t, and you will be able to move through life even if that happens,” he assured them.

ing goal is to beat the Chinese to the lunar surface. NASA aims to land astronauts in 2028, China by 2030.

The U.S. trounced the Soviet space program in the rst race to the moon, landing 12 astronauts from 1969 through 1972. John Tribe, 90, who managed spacecraft propulsion for Apollo, considers NASA’s revised Artemis plan “a whole lot more sensible.”

“The other approach was ridiculous,” Tribe said. “Whether we’re going to beat the Chinese back, I don’t know.” Apollo 9’s Rusty Schweickart also likes the refashioned Artemis. As for topping Apollo’s excitement, though, good luck.

“We can all recall Columbus,” Schweickart said in an email, but who can remember “who came along 50 years afterward?”

One of only four moonwalkers still alive, Duke anticipates the thrill of Apollo will return once Artemis astronauts start landing, especially for the younger crowd that missed out before.

“If the rst ones are successful and we start landing at the south pole,” Duke said, “I think millions are going to be watching that. I know I will if I’m still here.”

RandolpH SPORTS

Look out below

Asheboro’s Thomas Vazquez Santos (14) goes up for a spike against Greensboro Smith during a boys’ volleyball match last week. The sport is new for Asheboro, but the Blue Comets have had some success. For the Prep Roundup, see Page B2.

Cougars click for lots of runs

The Eastern Randolph and UCA teams had eventful conference matchups

Randolph Record sta

IT WAS A GOOD stretch for Southwestern Randolph’s baseball team, which won three times last week. Carson Coltrane rapped six hits and drove in six runs in visiting Southwestern Randolph’s 23-11 topping of Jordan-Matthews. Brady Arm eld

added four hits, including two triples and a double. In the Four Rivers Conference rematch, Coltrane and Elijah Sykes each drove in three runs and Logan Weidman and Arm eld both scored three runs in the Cougars’ 16-7 home victory.

Southwestern Randolph held o host Asheboro by 8-6 as Coltrane knocked in two runs and scored twice to win for the second time this season against the Blue Comets. Daniel Jaimes and Reid Sud-

duth both had two runs batted in for Asheboro.

• Jake Hunter struck out 13 Eastern Randolph batters in a two-hitter as the Eagles won 6-1 in the road game. Hunter also had three hits and Jaxon Mabe drove in three runs. But the Four Rivers Conference rematch involved Eastern Randolph’s eight-run top of the seventh inning for a 13-9 road victory Friday as Maddox Dunn, who was the winning pitcher in relief, drove in

four runs and Cade McCallum scored three times.

UCA’s Ty McAuley had three hits and scored two runs.

• Eastern Randolph dropped a 14-11 decision at Roxboro Person even though Bryson Markley scored three runs and Levi Stalker ripped a three-run double.

• Gavin Allen threw a six-hitter in Asheboro’s 7-0 home victory against Southeast Guilford in the Triad Area Athletic Conference on Friday. Sam Gore and Reid Sudduth both drove in two runs.

That reversed Asheboro’s 4-3 road loss to Southeast Guilford from earlier in the week, when Jaimes homered.

• Trinity’s Lincoln Coble struck out eight batters in ve innings in the Bulldogs’ 15-2 road triumph against Providence Grove in the Central Carolina 3-A Conference. Indiana Hill, Peyton Williams and Walker Parrish all scored two runs. In the rematch, Williams struck out 12 batters in six innings and Parrish had three hits in the Bulldogs’ 5-0 home success. Grayson Fauber worked an inning of relief to complete the three-hitter. In between the conference games, Trinity lost 9-1 to visiting Eden Morehead.

See BASEBALL, page B3

Southwestern Randolph’s Jessica Zuniga, left, pressures Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Kaci Smith during a girls’ soccer game last week.

Area teams rack up victories

The Randleman team posted a pair of lopsided results

Randolph Record sta

UWHARRIE CHARTER Academy’s girls’ soccer team

beat host Southwestern Randolph 5-1 in the Four Rivers Conference last week.

Southwestern Randolph also absorbed a 3-0 defeat at

North Carolina Leadership.

• Jaira Arellano had two goals when Asheboro won 7-0 at Southeast Guilford in Triad Area Athletic Conference action.

Earlier last week, Asheboro lost 2-1 at Northern Guilford in league play.

• Randleman racked up an 8-0 road victory against High Point Central in the Piedmont Athletic Conference.

The Tigers also went on the

road for a 6-0 triumph at Southern Guilford.

• In the Central Carolina 3-A Conference, Trinity tripped visiting East Davidson 3-1. Out of conference, Trinity blew out visiting Southern Guilford 9-0.

• Providence Grove fell 2-1 in overtime at West Davidson.

• Wheatmore smacked visiting Thomasville 9-0 with Jocelyn McDowell registering four goals.

Big scoring totals boost county teams

The ability to reach double-digit run totals became a boost

Randolph Record sta

CORA LITTLE smacked a two-run homer when Asheboro pounded visiting Northeast Guilford 18-2 in softball last week.

Claire Younts and MJ Class both scored three runs in the Triad Area Athletic Conference game. Little homered twice in a 33-23 loss to visiting Eastern Guilford.

• Providence Grove’s 12-0 handling of host Wheatmore came with big hits from Adi Johnson, Callie Lambert, Carly Lambert and Liz Shoe. Campbell Ziemba struck out 17 batters. The Patriots also had big numbers in a 23-5 drubbing of host Southeast Guilford, with Lara Wiseman and Callie Lambert both scoring four runs. Providence began the week with a 4-3 home loss to East Davidson despite Ziemba’s 12 strikeouts.

• Trinity’s 16-0 trouncing of visiting Thomasville came with McKinley Butcher striking out eight in three innings.

• Maddie Strider had a triple and drove in three runs and Nauttica Parrish scored three runs in Southwestern Randolph’s 10-2 victory against visiting Ledford. Southwestern Randolph pitchers Alyssa Harris and Katelyn West combined on a ve-inning no-hitter when the Cougars blanked host Jordan-Matthews 20-0 in the Four Rivers Conference. In the rematch at home, Southwestern Randolph rolled 10-1 as Chloe Eudy struck out 10 batters and Harris knocked in three runs.

• Paityn Williams threw a four-hitter in Uwharrie Charter Academy’s 11-0 road triumph against Eastern Randolph. Emroy Johnson’s three hits included a double and triple and she drove in ve runs. Eastern Randolph avenged that Four Rivers Conference defeat when Amanda Crabtree hit

See SOFTBALL, page B2

Logan Weidman

Southwestern Randolph, baseball

Weidman has provided boosts for the Cougars on the mound and at the plate.

He’s a senior in elder and pitcher. He had an extra-base hit in both meetings with Jordan-Matthews last week. He was the winning pitcher in the rst matchup, striking out eight batters in four innings.

Southwestern Randolph entered this week with a 7-3 record. The Cougars are aiming for a 10-win season for the rst time since 2021.

Randolph wrestlers post mixed results in nationals

Several entrants from Randolph County won three or more matches in the tournament

Randolph Record sta

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Wheatmore’s Ayden Sumners made the longest run in the championship bracket and Trinity’s Stephen Cross won the most matches among Randolph County wrestlers in the National High School Coaches Association’s national tournament that wrapped up during the weekend at Virginia Beach Sports Center.

Sumners reached the 126-pound quarter nals for juniors. He won four matches, defeating opponents from Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and California before falling in the quarter nals by 10-2 to Chazz Robinson of Indiana.

Sumners, an unbeaten state champion, was ousted in a 5-2 defeat to Andrew Bonita, a state champion from New Jersey. Robinson nished fth and Bonita was sixth.

PREP ROUNDUP

6Trinity’s Stephen Cross’s win total at the National High School Coaches Association’s national tournament

Cross went 6-2 at 120 pounds for sophomores. After an opening victory and a loss, he won ve consecutive bouts in the consolation bracket before falling.

In the same division, Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Paxton Kearns was 2-2.

• Joseph Trahan of Trinity went 3-2 in the 285-pound division for seniors. He had pins against wrestlers from Georgia and Iowa, and he also pinned Aiden Frank of Mount Airy in the consolation bracket.

Trahan’s losses came by 13-5 to Blake Elder of Florida in the round of 32 and via pin to Avery Rhymer of Saint Stephens in his third consolation match. Rhymer nished as an

Asheboro wins in boys’

The Blue Comets have had success during their rst season in the sport

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — Jewel Barrett-Riggins racked up 12 kills and William Hernandez Miranda had eight kills in Asheboro’s 25-11, 25-13, 25-15 sweep of Greensboro Smith in boys’ volleyball last Thursday.

The outcome pushed the Blue Comets’ record to 3-1 in their rst season.

Barrett-Riggins also had seven blocks. Jonathan Guttierrez Alsono led the Blue Comets with 12 digs and Ryan Vazquez Santos provided 18 assists.

Track and eld

Trinity’s Kayla Franklin was the girls’ triple jump winner in

AREA SPORTS BRIEFS

Hernandez wins one match in NCAAs

a sixth-inning grand slam for her second homer of the game in the Wildcats’ 13-11 road victory. Crabtree’s three hits drove in eight runs.

UCA was on the wrong end of an 11-0 nal at McMichael.

High Point Central 16-0 on Alyana Hunt’s one-hitter in the three-inning Piedmont Athletic Conference matchup. Ella Rogers homered. The Tigers also bashed visiting Ledford 11-0 behind Kinzie Ivey’s pitching and two runs batted in apiece by Kaylee Phillips, Lilah Covington and Ivey. SOFTBALL from page B1

• Randleman rocked host

Former Uwharrie Charter Academy wrestler Aldo Hernandez of Appalachian State won his rst match in the NCAA championships before bowing out last month in Cleveland. Hernandez, competing in the 141-pound class, defeated Princeton’s Matthew Martino 8-2 in his rst match. That set up a meeting with two-time national champion Jesse Mendez, who secured a rst-period pin. Hernandez was eliminated with a 14-3 loss to North Carolina State’s Ryan Jack. Hernandez nished the season with a 20-16 record. Mendez ended up as the runner-up.

All-American in eighth place. Trahan was an undefeated state champion during the past season.

• Trinity, the Class 3A state champion, had numerous other entrants.

Jeven Palmeri, in the 106 division for sophomores, lost an opening match before three consecutive victories. He ended at 3-2.

Junior 113-pounder Aiden Burkholder went 1-2 with three decisions, losses to entrants from Virginia and Florida after opening with a victory against a Kentucky wrestler. Junior Omega Edge dropped two matches at 138. Freshman Anees Khan was 0-2 at 182 and Grayson Carroll fell by a pair of pins at 182 for sophomores.

• UCA junior 120-pounder Paxton Kearns was 2-2. UCA’s Andrew White in the 126 division for sophomores lost both matches.

Providence Grove sophomore 120-pounder Jeremiah Payne lost twice.

• UCA’s Riley White, a state champion, was 3-2 in the girls’ 132 division.

volleyball

the Mighty Viking Invitational on Saturday at North Stokes. Franklin’s mark of 33 feet, 7 inches gave her a 4-inch edge on Wilkes Central’s Kate Bivens.

Trinity’s Corbin Heugly was the runner-up in the boys’ 110-meter hurdles in 21.17 seconds. Rockingham County’s Tae’Shaun Harrison won in 20.55. Trinity’s Zayne Owen was fourth in the triple jump at 39-5½.

NCHSAA commissioner to retire in fall

Chapel Hill

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association announced last week that commissioner Que Tucker will retire e ective Oct. 1. She has been NCHSAA commissioner since December 2015, becoming the rst woman and rst African American to hold the position. The Reidsville native joined the NCHSAA sta in 1991 following two seasons as an assistant women’s basketball coach at North Carolina State under Kay Yow.

After attending Mars Hill and leading the women’s basketball team in scoring, her professional stops included time in public schools at West McDowell Junior High Scholl and Reidsville High School. Tucker was inducted into the NCHSAA Hall of Fame in 2012 and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2024.

Ward collects close victory at Caraway

A disquali cation in one class changed the nishing order

Randolph Record sta

SOPHIA — Dyan Ward claimed the victory in Saturday’s Limited Late Models feature at Caraway Speedway with a strong late-race restart. Ward edged Thomas Beane by less than a half-second. Ward, who also was the fastest quali er, won for the second time in March at the track.

Coy Beard nished third, ahead of Heath Causey and Camden Thomas.

• Corey Rose claimed victory in the 35-lap Chargers feature even though he didn’t cross the nish line rst. Isaac Harris overcame the eld to lead only to be disquali ed during a post-race car inspection. Cody Gri n placed second, followed by Tyler Bush, Isaac Johnson and Joseph Ciszek.

• Tito Clapp was the winner in UCARs, topping a eld that included 20 cars in a 15-lap race. Ron Mock was the run-

ner-up, followed by Mason Vance, Daniel Hughes and Cameron Ruggles.

• David Creed took rst place in the four-car 602 Modi eds race.

• In Mini Stocks, Jason Gallimore took victory ahead of Blaze Sanders, Brandon Crotts, Cody Gwynn and Steven Hedrick.

• For the Crown Vics division, Brandon Mock edged Corey Wyatt, with the next three spots held by Christiam Morris, TJ Gibson and Ricky Jones.

• In Legends, Joel Smith prevailed in the 25-lap race that included 16 cars. Kaden Bradshaw, Rhylee Hutchens, Jody Lobue and Neal Dulan were the next four nishers.

• Charlie Evans was rst in a three-car eld in Bandoleros. Racing resumes April 11 at Caraway Speedway.

pen & paper pursuits

this week in history

MLK assassinated, NATO established, U.S. enters WWI, Kurt Kobain dies by suicide

The Associated Press

APRIL 2

1792: Congress passed the Coinage Act, authorizing the creation of the U.S. Mint.

1865: Confederate President Je erson Davis and most of his Cabinet ed Richmond, Virginia, after Union troops broke through Confederate lines at the Third Battle of Petersburg.

1917: President Woodrow Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany, saying, “The world must be made safe for democracy.” (Congress declared war four days later.)

APRIL 3

1860: The rst Pony Express mail riders set out, one heading west from St. Joseph, Missouri, and another traveling east from Sacramento, California.

1882: Outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed in St. Joseph, Missouri, by Robert Ford, a member of James’ gang.

1968: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his nal speech in Memphis, Tennessee, telling striking sanitation workers, “I’ve been to the mountaintop. … I’ve seen the Promised Land.”

APRIL 4

1949: Twelve nations, including the United States, signed the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, D.C., establishing NATO.

1968: Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., 39, was assassinated while standing on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His death sparked unrest in cities across the United States that left 43 people dead and more than 3,000 injured.

1973: The twin towers of New York’s World Trade Center were o cially dedicated.

APRIL 5

1614: Pocahontas, daugh-

ter of Powhatan chief Wahunsenacawh (Powhatan), married English settler John Rolfe in the Virginia Colony.

1764: The British Parliament passed the American Revenue Act of 1764, known as the Sugar Act, enforcing duties on sugar and molasses imported into the American colonies.

1887: In Tuscumbia, Alabama, teacher Anne Sullivan helped her deaf-blind pupil Helen Keller understand the word “water,” marking a major breakthrough in Keller’s education.

1994: Nirvana lead singer Kurt Cobain died by suicide at his home in Seattle at age 27.

APRIL 6

1830: Joseph Smith and followers met in Fayette, New York, to organize the Church of Christ, later known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

1896: The rst modern Olympic Games o cially opened in Athens, Greece.

1917: The United States entered World War I as the House joined the Senate in approving a declaration of war against Germany, which was signed by President Woodrow

Wilson.

APRIL 7

1862: Union forces led by Gens. Ulysses S. Grant and Don Carlos Buell defeated Confederate troops at the Battle of Shiloh in Tennessee.

1922: Interior Secretary Albert B. Fall secretly leased U.S. Navy oil reserves to private companies in the scandal later known as Teapot Dome.

1994: A day after the presidents of Rwanda and Burundi were killed in a missile attack, Rwanda’s moderate prime minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana and her husband were murdered, triggering the genocide that followed.

APRIL 8

1820: A farmer on the Greek island of Milos discovered the ancient statue now known as the Venus de Milo.

1864: The U.S. Senate approved the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. (The House passed it in 1865.)

1992: Tennis great Arthur Ashe announced he had AIDS, saying he contracted HIV from a 1983 blood transfusion.

BASEBALL from page B1

• Wesleyan Christian popped visiting Providence Grove 11-1.

• Wheatmore fell 4-3 at East Davidson despite Lukas Usterbowski scoring two runs. The Warriors also lost 7-5 at Southern Guilford.

• Kyle Dillow drilled a two -run home run and winning pitcher Jake Riddle scored three runs in Randleman’s 13-0 home rout of Montgomery Central in the Piedmont Athletic Conference. Later in the week, Randleman mashed Montgomery Central 16-5 on the road as Lincoln Lawson drove in four runs and John Kirkpatrick was the winning pitcher. In between the matchups with Montgomery Central, Randleman’s string of seven consecutive shutouts ended, but the host Tigers still won by beating visiting Southern Alamance 12-6 courtesy of pitching from Tate Andrews and Dillow. Gavin Vanover scored three runs and Riddle, Ashton Poe, Carter Heath and Jackson Hill all knocked in two runs.

Books by journalist Doucet, activist Roy shortlisted for Women’s Prize for Non ction

The winners will be announced June 11 at a ceremony in London

The Associated Press

LONDON — Two books about hotels as places of risk and refuge in wartime are among nalists announced Wednesday for the Women’s Prize for Non ction, set up to help rectify a gender imbalance in publishing.

“The Finest Hotel in Kabul: A People’s History of Afghanistan” by Canadian journalist Lyse Doucet and U.K. author Jane Rogoyska’s “Hotel Exile: Paris in the Shadow of War” are on a six-book shortlist announced Wednesday for the 30,000-pound ($40,000) prize.

Also in the running are Indian author Arundhati Roy’s memoir “Mother Mary Comes to Me” and Turkish writer Ece Temelkuran’s exploration of migration “Nation of Strangers: Rebuilding Home in the 21st Century” The list is completed by two books about art by British writers — “Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health” by Daisy Fancourt and Judith Mackrell’s “Artists, Siblings, Vision-

Writer and activist

aries: The Lives and Loves of Gwen and Augustus John.” Labour Party politician Thangam Debbonaire, who is chairing the judging panel, said the nalists “are six books of authority, told with humanity.”

“These books are an urgent antidote to mis- and dis-information, written with high standards of scholarship,” she said. “They o er rich and origi-

Puth shows o bag of musical tricks on ‘Whatever’s Clever!’

Actor Je Goldblum provides a spoken-word prelude on “Until It Happens To You”

By Elise Ryan The Associated Press

THERE HAVE been some changes in Charlie Puth’s life recently. He got married. He’s a dad. And in the musical shoutout heard ’round the world, Taylor Swift declared that he “should be a bigger artist.”

On “Changes,” the lead single from his fourth album, “Whatever’s Clever!,” he ponders those shifts: “There’s been some changes in our life, oh / I can feel the distance,” he sings. “Space and time, has made everything di erent.”

An eight-member choir backs him up in the song’s latter half, joining Puth’s keys and a steady drum. These layers, while plenty, aren’t heavy. Puth keeps the track buoyant.

That light, playful energy is felt across much of the album releasing Friday (“Beat Yourself Up,” “Washed Up”). Puth and his co-producer BloodPop pull from a Mary Poppins bag of musical tricks — a choir! an orchestra! Kenny G! — to create complex tracks with in u-

“These books are an urgent antidote to mis-and dis-information, written with high standards of scholarship.”

Thangam Debbonaire, Labour Party politician

nal insights, in what often feels like a fragmented and uncertain world.”

The award is a sister to the 31-year-old Women’s Prize for Fiction and is open to female English-language writers from any country in any non ction genre. It was established in 2024 in response to statistics showing men in the U.K. buy more non ction than women and write more high-pro le non ction books.

In 2022, only 26.5% of non ction books reviewed in Britain’s newspapers were by women, and male writers dominated established non ction writing prizes.

Last year’s winner was British physician Rachel Clarke for “The Story of a Heart,” which explores the human drama behind organ donation.

“Sometimes the wind blows in di erent new directions.”

Charlie Puth

ences that range from yacht rock to jazz and R&B, diverting from Puth’s previous pop. Consider the wonky “Until It Happens To You,” which combines the orchestra and choir for a song about embracing the best of times while anticipating the worst, with a bubbly spoken intro -

duction and interlude by Je Goldblum.

Musically, the outcome is fun, largely because Puth, with his perfect pitch and Berklee College of Music training, has only leaned further into his “Professor Puth” persona, giving listeners the tools to break down those layers themselves through explanatory TikToks and talk show appearances. But Puth and BloodPop play it safe lyrically throughout the album, often relying on generic platitudes. (“You know everybody cries,” Puth sings on “Cry.” “Cry, cry, cry.”)

And yet, painting in broad strokes has worked before for Puth, and there are moments — when he pushes a simple idea a bit further — where it does here, too: “Love in Exile,” featuring and written with Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, is catchy and quotable. “Sideways,” featuring verses and harmonies by Coco Jones, recalls Puth’s early collaborative hits like Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore” with Selena Gomez, with their affecting but not overly complicated lyrics. If the album is seen as a sort of scrapbook assembled ahead of his next chapter, then ipping back to the rst page reveals Puth knows growth comes with those dreams being rewritten: “Sometimes the wind blows in di erent new directions,” he sings on “Changes.” Where that takes him, we’ll have to see. For now, Puth is embracing his in uences and exing what he’s learned. And that makes for a good time.

famous birthdays this week

Wayne Newton turns 84, Clive Davis celebrates 94, Billy Dee Williams is 89, Patricia Arquette hits 58

THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week:

APRIL 2

Disc jockey Dr. Demento is 85. Actor Linda Hunt is 81. Musician Emmylou Harris is 79.

Actor Christopher Meloni is 65. Tennis Hall of Famer Todd Woodbridge is 55. Actor Adam Rodriguez is 51.

APRIL 3

Actor Marsha Mason is 84.

Singer Wayne Newton is 84.

Singer Tony Orlando is 82. Singer-songwriter Richard Thompson is 77. Actor Alec Baldwin is 68. Actor David Hyde Pierce is 67. Actor-comedian Eddie Murphy is 65.

APRIL 4

Recording executive Clive Davis is 94. Golf Hall of Famer JoAnne Carner is 87. Actor Craig T. Nelson is 82. Football Hall of Famer John Hannah is 75. TV writer-producer David E. Kelley is 70. TV host-comic Graham Norton is 63. Actor Robert Downey Jr. is 61. Magician David Blaine is 53.

APRIL 5

Actor Michael Moriarty is 85. Actor Max Gail is 83. Singer Agnetha Fältskog (ABBA) is 76. Rock musician Mike McCready (Pearl Jam) is 60. Country musician Pat Green is 54. Musician-producer Pharrell Williams is 53.

APRIL 6

Actor Billy Dee Williams is 89. Film director Barry Levinson is 84. Actor John Ratzenberger is 79. Baseball Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven is 75. Actor Marilu Henner is 74. Actor Michael Rooker is 71. Actor Paul Rudd is 57.

APRIL 7

musician Bobby Bare is 91. Former California

APRIL 8

Seymour

the stream

Two doses of Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Housemaid’ with Sydney Sweeney, Jon Hamm robs

Country singer Charley Crockett drops “Age of the Ram”

The Associated Press

AMANDA SEYFRIED starring in “The Testament of Ann Lee” and Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” returning for Season 3 are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also among the streaming o erings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Jon Hamm is back stealing in his Apple TV series “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Sydney Sweeney teams up with Seyfried for the steamy thriller “The Housemaid,” and Grammy-nominated country singer Charley Crockett o ers his album, “Age of the Ram.” MOVIES TO STREAM

Seyfried probably should have been nominated for an Oscar for her performance as Shakers founder Ann Lee in Mona Fastvold’s audacious and euphoric musical “The Testament of Ann Lee,” which is streaming now on Hulu. “The lm is absolutely not for everyone,” Jocelyn Noveck wrote in her AP review. “But Fastvold has undeniably created something we’ve never quite seen before; speaking of visions, her singular artistic vision lls every frame. And Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Another movie that scored with critics but didn’t necessarily nd a massive audience in theaters was “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” which is available now on Net ix. The zombie lm, directed by Nia DaCosta working o of an Alex Garland script, stars Jack O’Connell and Ralph Fiennes. In his AP review, Mark Kennedy wrote, “The fourth entry in an ever-more engrossing franchise is absolutely bonkers — and a triumph. It mixes dark, queasy disembowelment and laugh-out-loud humor in a way that both subverts the genre and leads a way out of it, too.” For something completely di erent, the Broadway production of “Merrily We Roll Along” starring Jonathan Gro and Daniel Radcli e is also

coming to Net ix on Saturday. The box o ce sensation “The Housemaid” is on Starz. The Paul Feig lm starring Seyfried and Sweeney became a breakout hit in theaters, earning more than $396 million against a $35 million budget. Kennedy wrote in his review that it’s a “delicious, satirical look at the secret depravity of the ultra-rich, but it’s so well constructed that’s it’s not clear who’s naughty or nice. Halfway through, the movie zigs and everything you expected zags.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Grammy-nominated country singer Crockett enters the “Age of the Ram,” co-produced by Shooter Jennings, the third and nal chapter of his “Sagebrush Trilogy.” In true Crockett fashion, it’s equal parts old school country storytelling and forward-thinking future-casting. Singles “Fastest Gun Alive” and “Kentucky Too Long” are good places to start — Crockett’s idiosyncratic voice is all Old West air.

Everyone’s favorite Philadelphia-based, Medieval-obsessed punks Poison Ruin will release a new album, “Hymn from the Hills,” on Friday. Expect more of their classic sound — an inventive intersection of death

rock and chain mail — with increased ferocity. Or, as the album description reads, themes that include “spirits traversing sunless deserts and wilted hillsides, demonic torture objects limning the edges of the psyche, bodies trans gured into Luciferian snakes, Sadean prisoners bound to the screaming silence of abandoned castle towers.” You know, the usual. The great Swedish post-punk band Makthaverskan will release their rst new album since 2021’s “För Allting” on Friday. Titled “Glass and Bones,” the

10-track LP may very well be the best dream pop album of the year so far: Start with “Pity Party” — a ne reintroduction to singer Maja Milner’s idiosyncratic vocal tone and the band’s addictive guitar melodies — and build from there, to the chilly “Black Waters,” to the gothic confessional “Louie” and the lead track “Won’t Wait.” SERIES TO STREAM

Bravo’s hit reality show “The Valley” is back for Season 3 this week. The show follows for-

“Seyfried is a marvel, in yet another role that stretches this ercely talented actor in ways we might not have predicted.”

Jocelyn Noveck, AP Film Writer

mer “Vanderpump Rules” cast members who traded West Hollywood for life north of Los Angeles, bringing marriages, kids, divorces and drama with them. Kristen Doute, Brittany Cartwright, Jason and Janet Caperna, Luke Broderick, Danny and Nia Booko, and Jesse Lally return. Former “Vanderpump” regulars Lala Kent and Tom Schwartz also join as full-time cast members. Notably absent: Jax Taylor, Cartwright’s ex, who won’t be returning. The season premiere hits Peacock on Thursday.

Hamm is back to stealing from his neighbors. His Apple TV series, “Your Friends & Neighbors,” launches Season 2 on Friday. Hamm plays a suburbanite who steals from his wealthy New York neighbors to maintain his upper-crust lifestyle. Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn and James Marsden also star.

Bravo also adds to its “Real Housewives” franchise with the debut of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” streaming Friday, April 3 on Peacock.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Darwin’s Paradox! looks like a throwback to classic arcade games, in which colorful mascots ran and jumped through tricky 2D landscapes. Darwin is an octopus who’s minding his own business when he’s suddenly ripped out of the ocean and thrown into a junkyard. As he tries to nd his way back home, he stumbles across a conspiracy that “could very well seal the fate of humanity.” Fortunately, Darwin has a big brain to go with all those useful legs. The adventure comes from France’s ZDT Studio, whose founders include the director of the terri c Dishonored series. It launches Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.

HOKE COUNTY

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Supreme Court rules 8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

Vets for Vets and Community holds 2nd annual golf tournament

Gol ng fundraiser bene ts four local military service organizations

By Elaina J. Martin

For North State Journal

THE VETS FOR VETS and Community organization of Hoke County held its second annual golf tournament on Friday at Bayonet at Puppy Creek Golf Club. The event is a fundraiser for military service organizations in Hoke County.

In all, 28 teams of four golfers each took to the course, including one team of women. The day started early, as about a dozen volunteers worked to get ready for registration, the sale of mulligans and red tees, and the purchase of last-min-

ute ra e tickets. Gift bags were placed in the golf carts for each golfer, each containing a door prize. People could still buy rafe tickets that morning for two di erent drawings. The winner of the gun ra e, which raised $3,000, was Hoke County resident Larry Dunshee. The 50/50 ra e raised a little over $700, which was then split between the winner and Vets for Vets and Community.

Before the group of golfers went out to play, Sharon McNeill Burnette sang the national anthem. Pastor Tommy Underwood of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Rock sh gave the invocation. The head golf professional at Bayonet at Puppy Creek Golf Club, Ryan Barthold, said a few words to the crowd as well.

“We were pleasantly surprised at the way that not just our community, but surrounding communities stepped up to help veterans.”

Rory Eddings

win, Perry Johnson, and Dean English, winning $400. Pierce Construction’s team was the third-place nisher, receiving $300.

All around the course, there were signs from 85 di erent organizations that sponsored holes. The signs were made by Fast Tz’s and Signs Pembroke, who donated the cost of the signs.

Robert Lawson, who participated in the golf tournament, said, “My father was in the Air Force. ... I try to support all the vets and wounded warriors, anything along those lines, to make sure they are being treated fairly and taken care of.”

The rst-place winner of the golf tournament was Pembroke Hardware’s team, who received a cash prize of $500. Second was a team made up of Ray Crumpler, Marc God-

This year’s golf tournament raised $24,000, which will be split among four military service organizations — Vets for Vets and Community, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). “We were pleasantly surprised at the way that not just our community, but surrounding communities stepped up to help veterans,” event organizer Rory Eddings said.

Tillis, other senators to visit Taiwan before Trump’s summit with China’s Xi

Lawmakers look to improve ties with Taiwan, Japan and South Korea

By Stephen Groves The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of four senators has plans to visit Taiwan, Japan and South Korea in the coming days on a trip meant to bolster U.S. alliances seen as important to countering China’s dominance in Asia. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, announced the trip Saturday. She will be joined by Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). Their visits to Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul are coming before President Don-

ald Trump’s trip to Beijing in May for a rescheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The lawmakers’ stop in Taiwan could draw scrutiny from China, which opposes such relations and sees them as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over the self-governing island. Taiwan relies on American backing for its democracy, but recent moves by Trump, such as discussing a potential weapons sales to Taiwan with Xi, have raised questions about the future direction of U.S. policy.

Analysts in both China and the United States believe Xi, through the leader-level summit, will try to in uence Trump to soften the U.S. stance on Taiwan.

“This bipartisan delegation demonstrates Congress’ commitment to these alliances and

partnerships is unwavering and will endure well beyond any one administration,” Shaheen said in a statement.

In a show of reassurance to the Asian allies, the lawmakers plan to meet with political leaders and defense o cials on their trip.

“Our alliance with Taiwan is one of the most strategically and morally signi cant partnerships America has in the Indo-Paci c,” Curtis said.

It remains to be seen how Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, Iran and elsewhere could in uence other powers such as China and Russia. But there is some concern among lawmakers that the Republican president’s actions could be seen as giving those countries an opening

for their own foreign moves.

The economic relationship with Taiwan has also come under scrutiny from the Trump administration. The U.S. is reliant on Taiwan for its production of computer chips, which contributed to a trade imbalance of nearly $127 billion during the rst 11 months of 2025.

The Trump administration reached a deal with Taiwan in February that removed 99% of its trade barriers.

During another visit by a bi-

THURSDAY APRIL 2

WEDNESDAY APRIL 8

Sanford, former South Carolina governor, makes a bid to again return to Congress

He’s trying for his former seat with an

on the national debt

By Meg Kinnard and Je rey Collins The Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mark

Sanford, the former South Carolina congressman and governor whose political ascendency was stalled by a 2009 a air, wants to return to Congress — again.

Just hours ahead of the deadline to do so, Sanford led candidacy paperwork with state o cials to run in the June 9 GOP primary for South Carolina’s 1st District seat, which he has held twice before.

Sanford’s rst political o ce was in the 1st District. An outsider with almost no name recognition, he navigated a primary for the open seat, nishing second before winning the runo . He served for six years before his outside run at governor, again pushing his way through a crowded primary and then knocking o the last Democrat to hold the o ce. But his eight years were overshadowed by the Appalachian

South

Trail, which became shorthand for Sanford’s disappearance to go to Argentina to see his lover. Sanford’s wife, family and his sta didn’t know where he was.

Beating back both an ethics inquiry and calls to resign, Sanford held fast, leaving o ce on his own terms.

In 2013, Sanford won back his old seat, beating 15 other candidates in a primary and runo . He won two more full terms before falling to a

“Our alliance with Taiwan is one of the most strategically and morally signi cant partnerships America has in the Indo-Paci c.”

Sen. John Curtis (R-Utah)

partisan group of U.S. lawmakers last year, they emphasized that the U.S. would continue to partner closely with Taiwan.

Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

GOP challenger in 2018 who had President Donald Trump’s backing.

The seat would go on to ip to Democratic hands that fall for the rst time in decades, won back by GOP Rep. Nancy Mace in 2020. Mace is running for governor this year.

Sanford, 65, also brie y ran for president in 2020, challenging Trump for the nomination in what he characterized as a “long shot” e ort around warn-

ings about the national debt.

Some, including Sanford’s former gubernatorial sta ers, initially questioned whether the e ort was a serious one, positing that it might be an e ort to stay relevant after the 2018 defeat.

Sanford dropped out of the contest just ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Sanford’s home state would ultimately opt not to hold a 2020 GOP presidential primary, clearing the way for Trump’s nomination in South Carolina.

Sanford did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Monday. True to the themes that have dominated his political thinking, an email release on Sanford’s candidacy focused on the national debt, with the candidate saying he felt 1st District voters wanted a representative “who is an advocate for nancial sanity that has been lost in Washington for all too long.“

Since leaving the U.S. House, Sanford has hung onto more than $1.3 million in a federal campaign account, funds that he can now use in a primary already crowded with multiple Republican and Democratic candidates.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| LARRY ELDER

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while

proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt

into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Are we safe anymore?

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination.

In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence. Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope.

Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland

Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Apollo vs. Artemis: What to know about NASA’s return to the moon

Artemis brings greater diversity to humanity’s return to lunar orbit

By Marcia Dunn

Associated Press

The

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. —

NASA’s Apollo moonshots are a tough act to follow, even after all this time.

As four astronauts get set to blast o on humanity’s rst trip to the moon in more than half a century, comparisons between Apollo and NASA’s new Artemis program are inevitable.

The world’s rst lunar visitors orbited the moon on Apollo 8. The Artemis II crew will play it safe and zip around the moon in an out-and-back slingshot.

Another key di erence: Artemis re ects more of society, with a woman, person of color and Canadian rocketing away.

While Artemis builds on Apollo and pays homage to it, “there is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch, part of the Artemis II crew.

Here’s the lowdown on Apollo vs. Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as NASA targets the rst six days of April for lifto .

Run-up to the moon

It took NASA just eight years to go from putting its rst astronaut in space to putting Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in 1969, beating President John Kennedy’s end-of-decade deadline.

“The Apollo program still just absolutely blows me away,” said Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency, Artemis has progressed much more slowly, after decades of indecision and ip- opping between the moon and Mars as the next grand destination. NASA’s new moon rocket, the Space Launch System, or SLS, has soared only once in a test ight without anyone on board more than three years ago.

This plodding approach is why NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, overhauled the Artemis program in February. Keen to emulate Apollo, he added a mission between the upcoming Artemis II mission and the moon landing that’s now shifted to Artemis IV in 2028.

During next year’s revamped Artemis III, astronauts will stick closer to home the same way Apollo 9 did in 1969. Instead of attempting a moon landing as originally envisioned, they will practice docking their Orion capsule in orbit around Earth with one or both lunar landers under development by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Je Bezos’ Blue Origin. The rival companies are accelerating work on their landers in a bid to be rst.

Political rivalries

The Soviets were America’s erce rivals during Apollo, but their moon rockets kept exploding at lifto and they eventually gave up. Now the Chinese are the competition. China already has landed robotic spacecraft on the moon’s far side — the only nation to achieve that — and is scrambling to land astronauts near the lunar south pole by 2030.

NASA is aiming for the same polar region, where shadowed craters are thought to hold vast amounts of ice that could provide drinking water and rocket fuel. Like his predecessor Bill Nelson, Isaacman is determined to beat China to the nish line and win this second space race.

Moon rocket

Apollo’s Saturn V rockets stood 363 feet, with ve rst-stage engines. The Artemis SLS rocket comes in at 322 feet but packs more lifto thrust with its four main engines and two strap-on boosters.

All but one Saturn V rocket soared from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39-A, now leased by SpaceX. NASA will use neighboring pad 39-B for all SLS ights. While the Saturn V launched twice before carrying astronauts, the SLS has own only once. Hydrogen fuel leaks delayed the SLS debut in 2022 and struck again during a countdown test in February, stalling Artemis II. Then helium trouble reap -

Shawn Palocka

peared, causing further delay. NASA is now targeting an April lifto . Launch Control remains at the same place. There was one woman in the packed ring room for the lifto of Apollo 11. Now a woman leads it: Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson.

First lunar crews

Apollo 8 still ranks as the gutsiest space mission of all time. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders became the rst humans to launch to the moon in 1968. Borman, the commander, insisted on as few lunar orbits as possible given the risks. He and his bosses settled on 10 orbits as a warmup

for 1969’s moonwalk by Armstrong and Aldrin.

NASA decided long ago against orbiting the moon on Artemis’ crew debut, judging it too dangerous. The main goal is to test the Orion capsule’s life-support equipment, ying for the rst time. One big similarity between Apollo 8 and Artemis II is the troubled times surrounding them.

“If we can contribute a little bit to hope for humanity,” said Artemis II pilot Victor Glover of NASA, “that is a huge thing.”

Shades of Apollo 13

The Artemis astronauts will orbit Earth for a day to make certain everything is work-

ing properly before igniting the main engine and heading for the moon. It will take three to four days for the capsule to reach the moon and continue some 5,000 miles beyond, exceeding the distance record set by 1970’s ill-fated Apollo 13.

Like Apollo 13, Artemis II will take advantage of the moon and Earth’s gravity, making a gure eight after whipping around the moon to head home in what’s known as a free-return trajectory requiring little if any fuel. It got Apollo 13’s three astronauts safely back although they had to abandon their moon landing.

Artemis astronauts will parachute into the Paci c after their mission like the Apollo crews did.

Suiting up

For Apollo, the white, bulky spacesuits did double duty. What the astronauts wore for launch and return was the same for moonwalks since there wasn’t enough storage space for di erent out ts.

The Orion capsules for Artemis are bigger, designed to hold four astronauts instead of three plus two sets of spacesuits. NASA created brand new spacesuits for use inside the capsule, while turning to private companies for the moonwalking attire.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his crew will wear the orange custom- tted suits for launch and reentry. They’ll also use them in case of a depressurization or some other emergency. They can survive up to six days in the suits, inserting a straw into the helmet to sip water or protein shakes and relying on undergarment bags and bladders as a built-in toilet.

Houston-based Axiom Space is designing the white moonwalking suits that will accompany future Artemis crews.

Long-term goals

Apollo was all about beating the Russians to the moon and planting the U.S. ag. Astronauts landed six times from 1969 through 1972, with the longest surface stay lasting 75 hours. Five of the 24 Apollo astronauts who ew to the moon are still alive.

For the rst Artemis moon landing, a pair of astronauts could spend nearly a week there. It’s a complicated plan compared with Apollo.

Artemis moonwalkers will launch to the moon aboard Orion and, once in lunar orbit, transfer to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon, whichever is ready rst. They’ll descend to the surface, and, after a few days, blast back into orbit to rendezvous with their Orion capsule. Orion will be the astronauts’ ride home.

NASA is striving for sustained lunar living, with Mars to follow, although “day one of the moon base is not going to look like this glass-enclosed, domed city,” Isaacman said. Last week, he unveiled a blueprint for the moon base showing habitats, rovers, drones, power stations and more. NASA plans to invest $20 billion over the next seven years.

Shawn Palocka is a pca worker that has been with us for over a year that does a great job he enjoys video games on his for all his hard work. Integrity Open Arms would like to thank you for a job well done.

Robert General has been a resident at Open Arms since August 2021. He was born in South Carolina, relocated to Richmond Virginia and later moved to North Carolina. Robert enjoys BINGO, church and knitting. He is a joy to have here at Open Arms Retirement Center.

Mrs. Betty Purcell is from Raeford, North Carolina. She moved into our assisted living this past June. Besides being the mother of two, she worked for many years at Burlington Mills. Betty enjoys church, watching youtube and doing word searches. Integrity

Mrs. Florence Herbert has been a resident here since May 2021. She moved to North Carolina from Pennsylvania to escape the bad weather. Florence enjoys word searches, BINGO, watching TV and spending time with her friends on the Special Care Unit at Integrity Open Arms.

or

HOKE SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jianna Gomez

Hoke, girls’ soccer

Jianna Gomez is a senior goalkeeper on the Hoke County girls’ soccer team.

The Bucks got three shutouts last week, going 2-0-1. Gomez tied for the team high with two saves in 50 minutes in net against Western Harnett, helping lead a 1-0 victory. She then went the distance in a scoreless tie with Richmond recording 10 saves in the e ort.

When she wasn’t in net, she played forward, getting two shots on goal in a win over Douglas Byrd.

For the season, Gomez leads the team in saves and has ve shutouts.

Elliott beats Hamlin at Martinsville for 1st Cup Series win of season

It is the Hendrick driver’s 22nd career win

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

MARTINSVILLE, VA. — The strategy calls don’t always work out for Chase Elliott in the Cup Series.

So when the plan comes together — as it did in a victory at Martinsville Speedway — it’s especially sweet for NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver and his legions of adoring fans.

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough,” Elliott said while celebrating on the frontstetch to huge cheers after his rst win this season and the 22nd of his career. “So just really, really grateful for the opportunity. I never take it for granted. Trust me, this is a dream come true for me.”

The 30-year-old from Dawsonville, Georgia, capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet earlier than the other contenders. When the caution ew on the 312th lap, Elliott was in second behind Denny Hamlin and pitted with the rest of the lead-lap drivers aside from Ross Chastain, who took the lead by staying on track.

Elliott took rst from Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota.

“It was de nitely a team effort,” Elliott said after his second win on the 0.526-mile oval. “That was awesome. So proud of Alan and the whole team. They did a great job, and we took a gamble. But just so proud of them. They put up with a lot, and they got to put up with me all the time. So I just appreciate them for sticking with me.”

Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Elliott, who has been voted NASCAR’s most popular driver annually since 2018, led 84 laps in delivering the rst win this year for Hendrick Motorsports. The winningest team in Cup history has a record 31 victories at Martinsville.

Gustafson, whose calls are frequently second-guessed by one of NASCAR’s biggest fan bases whenever Elliott struggles, said he got a supportive call Sunday morning from team owner Rick Hendrick.

“He’s like, ‘Everything’s great, love you guys, playing the long game, and this is a marathon, not a sprint,’” Gustafson said in recounting the conversation. “But nevertheless, when the boss calls you, it gets your attention.”

The decision was virtually a no-brainer for Gustafson after Elliott started 10th and ran mostly outside the top ve for the rst half of the 400-lap race.

“We were just kind of trapped in like the 10th spot,” Gustafson said. “It’s really hard to pass, and we just need to do something di erent. I just felt like it was worth a shot. And when we pitted early, I think it just drug a lot of guys down. Obviously, the caution’s great. It gave us track position, and the rest is history.”

Hamlin, who has a series-best six wins at Martinsville, started from the pole position and dominated, leading 292 of the rst 317 laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing star got shu ed from the lead during a pit stop sequence under a yellow ag that began on the 312th lap and then lost momentum on the ensuing restart. He also thought a loose wheel caused his handling to fade in the nal stage.

“(Elliott) did a good job of controlling the pace there,” Hamlin said. “It just really came from that bad restart I had. Just not much really I could have done, and it felt like we gave it our all. We’ll check it out here, but I just thought the wheel was loose here on that last run. Either way, these are just some of the races that get away from you and your career.”

The win came 11 years to the day of Elliott’s debut in the Cup Series. He nished 38th in the March 29, 2015, race that was won by Hamlin. Elliott said he was reminded of the anniversary at an autograph session Sunday morning.

“A couple fans that were here that day came up to me and told me about it,” Elliott said. “So I got to thinking about it. Really cool to kind of see all that come full circle.”

Webb inducted into racing hall of fame

Raeford native is the voice of area racing

North State Journal sta R AEFORD’S Marty Webb wasn’t surprised that the Fayetteville Cumberland Stock Car Racing Hall of Fame asked him to announce the rst two inductees for the class of 2026. After all, the Hoke County native had been the voice of stock car racing in the area as a PA announcer and MC for dozens of awards banquets and ceremonies over the years. The surprise was that they asked someone else to read the biography and reveal the identity of the third inductee. That’s because it was Webb himself, who entered the hall along with contributor Martin Roberts and driver David Taylor.

Spring sports roundup

Hoke County baseball won two of three games last week to improve to 5-7 on the year, 3-4 in conference. The Bucks swept Overhills in a home and home, winning 7-0 there and 11-3 at home. Hoke also dropped an 8-4 decision to Purnell Swett. This week, the Bucks have a home and home with Pine Forest and a home game with Scotland. Hoke softball also won two of three to improve to 9-2, 2-0 in conference. The Bucks swept Overhills 5-2 on the road and 11-0 at home. In between, then lost 3-0 at Scotland. Hoke has a home and home with Pine Forest this week, as well as a home game against Purnell Swett. Girls’ soccer was unbeaten and unscored upon in three games, going 2-0-1 to improve to 7-2-3, 0-0-2 in conference. The Bucks blanked Douglas Byrd 3-0 at home and then battled to a scoreless draw at Richmond. Hoke closed the week with a 1-0 shutout of Western Harnett at home. This week, Hoke hosts Pinecrest and Jack Britt.

From Tipperary to high-stakes SEC

An Irish rugby player with no football experience commits to South

By Ken Maguire

The Associated Press

Carolina

LONDON — Ne Giwa sometimes asks himself: “Is this really happening to me?”

Incredibly, yes.

The 20-year-old Irishman who has never played American football committed on Sunday to play at South Carolina as an o ensive lineman.

Giwa, who is also Nigerian, has come a long way — from Tipperary — in a short amount of time. Just a few months after showing an interest in the sport, he was touring U.S. college campuses, meeting coaches and collecting o ers.

It’s a lot to handle, even for someone who is 6 feet, 71⁄2 inches tall, weighs 295 pounds and has 37-inch-long arms and great foot speed.

“I knew that there’d be a journey there, but I could never have anticipated this,” Giwa, in an interview with The Associated Press, said of the whirlwind around his recruitment.

Giwa, whose full rst name is Oluwanifemi, selected the Gamecocks over o ers from Miami, UNC, SMU, Tennessee and Texas.

Oluwanifemi ‘Ne ’ Giwa takes part in a football workout session at the National Sports Center, Crystal Palace in London.

“Freakish numbers”

Giwa — pronounced with a hard G — heard about Brandon Collier through a friend familiar with the American’s track record of nding, training and placing international kids at U.S. college football programs. Collier, an American who played defensive line at UMass, runs PPI Recruits out of Germany.

Collier had Giwa visit him for a workout and immediately envisioned him protecting quarterbacks.

“If you can create a tackle in a

laboratory, this is what you want him to look like,” Collier told the AP.

It wasn’t just his size, though. Collier clocked Giwa at 4.88 seconds in the 40-yard dash and measured his broad jump at 9 feet, 10 inches — “pretty freakish numbers,” Collier noted.

“Then he has the toughness,” he added. “You can have all these measurements, but if you’re not tough mentally and physically then you probably won’t make it.”

Collier was bringing his latest group of recruits on campus

tours earlier this month and decided to add Giwa — mostly just to introduce him to the process.

“I didn’t have expectations,” Giwa told the AP before Sunday’s announcement. “It was just to see what was out there, basically, and what to work towards.”

“Things kind of picked up.”

Here come the o ers

Not long after touching down in the U.S., Collier detoured to Toronto to check out another touted prospect. Giwa joined him.

“I had them do some pass sets and some one-on-ones with some kids, he looked phenomenal,” Collier said of Giwa.

So he instructed Giwa to immediately create an X account so colleges could learn more about him. Collier then posted a couple of videos “and it went viral from there.”

“Miami, they messaged me literally 60 seconds after I posted it,” Collier said. “The head coach (Mario Cristobal) wrote me a message — ‘get him to Miami.’”

Like actually one minute?

“Literally 60 seconds, man,” Collier said. “The power of networking and social media. People know what I do.”

Giwa didn’t talk to Belichick

UNC would have been an intriguing choice not only to

Close sounds warning on coaching’s new grind as UCLA’s postseason run rolls on

NIL and transfer rules changes have made the job all consuming

By Doug Feinberg

The Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Cori

Close isn’t sure how much longer she will be coaching. The responsibilities of coaches have changed a lot in her 33 years in the game, especially in the last few years.

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this,” said Close, of No. 1 seed UCLA. “And I’m just being transparent with you about that. There are so many things that are harder, and we keep losing incredible people on the men’s and the women’s side.”

Between the transfer portal, name, image and likeness, and revenue sharing, coaching has changed. It’s not just about recruiting players from high school, but also now about keeping a team together each season and guring out how much money each player will make through revenue sharing.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley said she welcomes change and likes the challenge of guring out ways to be still be successful — something she’s excelled at with three national championships in the last nine years.

“When that leaves me, then I know it’s time for me to move on,” the 55-year-old Staley said.

Staley said she’s seen the sport become more transactional the last few years.

“We can try to keep core prin-

ciples of who we are as coaches and the sanctity of the team,” she said. “For me, I coach from my days being on the Olympic team. That is how I coach. Meaning I try to coach where the team is the team success. Then we know that individuals make up the success of a team. You deal with each player and have them try to get them in a position where they understand their worth.”

Staley has seen the change the last few years with the additions of NIL.

“NIL has really changed everything. Like it really has changed. I mean, how you have to move day to day. You got to make sure psychologically our kids are in a good place. Mentally, they’re in a good place, and they’re parents,” Staley said. “So you’re actually having to do a lot of work and if you’re not used to that part of it, you know, it will it will run you out of the business.”

Staley relishes the two hours each day that her team practices because nothing else enters the space at that time and she can just focus on coaching.

“The 22 hours beyond that, you have to go and exhaust your-

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this.”

Cori Close, UCLA coach

self and make sure everyone is good from day to day, from week to week and de nitely in the postseason,” Staley said.

The transfer portal was moved this year to open the day after the national championship game, as opposed to during the NCAA Tournament.

“If there’s one thing I would ask of our governing bodies and the NCAA and our administrations, it is please develop infrastructure and boundaries that create an opportunity to have sustained excellence and sustainable pace,” said Close, who is in her 15th season at UCLA. “Otherwise, we are going to continue to lose some of our best coaches, and I do not think

play for iconic coach Bill Belichick but also because the Tar Heels play their 2026 opener against TCU at Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

“I haven’t spoken to him personally,” Giwa said of Belichick.

Playing in his country someday would be great: “I was born in Ireland, and I was raised in Ireland. It de nitely would be cool and a bit of an honor to do that.”

Giwa is a small-town kid

Giwa grew up in Cashel, a town in County Tipperary with a population under 5,000 people.

His mother is a nurse and his father is a physiotherapist. Giwa, who has three older siblings, said they were the rst Nigerian family to move into town and that local residents “de nitely made us feel welcome.”

What does he tell everyone about college football and the facilities he’s visited?

“I tell them it’s a di erent world over there,” he said. Rugby, soccer, hurling and Gaelic football are the local sports.

Giwa credits Collier with creating life-changing opportunities. He’s not sure what he’d be doing otherwise.

“I’d just be a regular guy,” he said with a laugh, “doing what 90% of the world is doing, just trying to make a living. That’s why I’m so grateful because I’m able to do something that I really love now.”

our game can a ord to do that.”

Some longtime coaches have stepped down over the past few seasons for a variety of reasons, including for health issues. Others have mulled retirement. Louisville coach Je Walz didn’t sound close to retirement when the 54-year-old in his 19th season with the Cardinals was told of Close’s comments.

“I’m friends with Cori,” Walz said. “My favorite line, I would tell her, if you don’t like your job, nd a new job. I mean, I’m listening this morning at 4:20 as the workers outside my window at the hotel in the street are working. I mean, you choose your profession. If you don’t like it, nd a new profession.”

“I mean, of course, it’s a lot of work, but we chose to do it and we get compensated for it,” Walz said. “I don’t think anybody is going to feel too sorry for us that you might be tired. I’m tired, too, but who is not?”

Wolverines coach Kim Barnes Arico said coaching fatigue is less about age and more about adaptation.

“A few years ago when all this started to come into play, I knew as a coach and I talked to our players and I talked to our sta , times are changing,” Barnes Arico said. “We need to evolve. We need to grow. We need to step up to the challenges, because if we can’t, the game, the landscape, all of it is going to pass us by.”

Beatrice Sanchez Baker

June 10, 1936 –March 23, 2026

Beatrice Sanchez Baker, 89, of Raeford, NC, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026. Born in Luling, Texas, Beatrice worked at J. P. Stevens in Aberdeen, NC, for 30 years.

Beatrice was preceded in death by her mother, Guadalupe Martinez Sanchez; her father, Julian Sanchez; her daughter, Sandra Trottier; and her sons, Walt Bullock (surviving spouse Donna Bullock) and Gary Bullock.

Beatrice is survived by her loving, devoted husband of 54 years, Larry O’Bryant Baker, and her children Linda Wodnick of Columbia, SC, Larry Bullock of Manhattan, NY, Wanda Mangum of Lawrenceville, GA, Je rey Baker (Brandi) of Fayetteville, NC, Penny Baker Jones of Raeford, NC. She is also survived by her brothers, Rudy Sanchez (Terry) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Mingo Sanchez (Virginia) of Houston, TX. Bea cherished time with her greatgrandchildren, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends who will remember her strong, kind, giving spirit and contagious laughter. They will all miss her dearly.

Bea’s radiant spirit lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, sister and aunt. She had a heart for people and a spirit of hospitality that few could match. Bea welcomed everyone into her home with joy and made sure no one left hungry.

Bea loved our Holy Father in heaven and His precious Son Jesus, her Lord and Savior. She was a devoted member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, where she taught catechism, served on the choir, and held many other roles over the years. Bea was always willing to help others in need and made a way to make others’ lives easier whenever she could. Thoughtful, giving and joyous, Bea was a woman who brought life to every room she entered with her beauty and joyful, vivacious spirit. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at Crumpler Funeral Home, 131 Harris Avenue, Raeford, NC 28376.

A funeral mass will follow at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, 6199 Fayetteville Road, Raeford, NC 28376, at 12:30 p.m. with a burial at the Raeford City Cemetery, US-401 BUS, Raeford, NC 28376.

In lieu of owers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to support the funeral arrangements through Crumpler Funeral Home, located at 131 Harris Avenue, Raeford, NC 28376 (910) 8754145.

obituaries

Quinn Xavier Lowry

May 4, 1977 –March 25, 2026

Mr. Quinn Xavier Lowry, age 48 of Pembroke, North Carolina, entered into his heavenly home on March 25, 2026. He was born on May 4, 1977, in Robeson County, the loving son of Mr. William Thornton Lowry and Mrs. Fannie Sue Lowry. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James Louis Dial and Stella Graham Dial, paternal grandparents, Richard Seavie Lowry and Nettie Brooks Lowry. Quinn Xavier Lowry was a hard-working, intelligent, and family-oriented man who earned the respect of all who knew him. He was an inspiration to others, demonstrating strength and determination until his last breath. Deeply devoted to his family and passionate about his work, Quinn’s legacy is one of love, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. His memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Mrs.Tamra Lowry of the home, one son Zaviar Lowry, two daughters, Kearsey Lowry, and Ella Lowry both of the home, his parents, Mr. William Thornton Lowry and Mrs. Fannie Sue Lowry of Pembroke, North Carolina; one brother, William (Will) Lowry Jr and wife Sheneen Lowry of Pembroke, North Carolina;. Special nieces, Eliza Faith Collins, Zoe Lowry, Aslyn Grace Chavis. Special nephews, Ian Lowry, Joshua Chavis, Adrian (AJ) Chavis. Special cousin, Jason Dial (Bobbie Jo) and a host of other family and friends. Kearsey-My deddy was deeply loved by many and had a truly caring heart for others. Being his caregiver was not always easy, but it was the most rewarding experience of my life. I would do it all over again if I had to. This journey has taught me patience, humility, and to never take anything for granted.

I miss coming home to kiss him on the cheek and telling him how much I love him. I miss the long days and nights spent caring for him. I love my deddy and miss him dearly, but I nd comfort knowing he is no longer su ering. Until we meet again, my angel.

Ella- I love you, Daddy. I miss you, and I care about you always.

Zaviar- Deddy, you were my best friend, and I love you deeply. Your memory will always live in my heart. Rest in peace until we meet again.

Woodroe Jacobs

Oct. 6, 1940 –March 25, 2026

Mr. Woodroe Jacobs, age 85, of Maxton, North Carolina, departed this life and entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Mr. Jacobs was born on October 6, 1940, in Robeson County, North Carolina, to the late Mr. Marvin Jacobs and the late Mrs. Zadie Chavis Jacobs.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 41 years, Mrs. Myrtha Jacobs; ve brothers, Richard French “Joyce” Jacobs, Hubert Jacobs, Victor Jacobs, F.M. Jacobs, and Ferlie Wayne Jacobs; and one sister, Juanita Barber.

Left to cherish his loving memory are his devoted daughter, Kathy Jacobs Hunt and husband Jonathan Keith Hunt of Fairmont, North Carolina; his cherished granddaughter, Kaitlyn Natiya Hunt of Fairmont, North Carolina; one sister, Cynthia Williamson of Rich eld, North Carolina; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Mr. Jacobs was a faithful member of Whitehill Free Will Baptist Church, where he devoted much of his time serving and participating in church functions. He loved NASCAR racing and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a wonderful and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who deeply loved his only daughter and granddaughter.

The family would like to express special thanks to his caretakers, niece Wanda Jacobs, nephew Kenneth Jacobs, and the sta of Scotland Morrison Manor for the care and kindness shown to him.

His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Charlie Kirk’s mentor, cheerleading pioneer Je Webb dead at 76 after ‘tragic accident’

The Varsity Spirit founder turned cheerleading into an international competitive sport

The Associated Press

JEFF WEBB, the founder of Varsity Spirit who helped transform cheerleading into an International Olympic Committee-recognized sport and mentored late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, has died. He was 76.

A family spokesperson said Webb died last Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, following a “tragic accident.” The family has declined to comment on speci cs.

Webb founded the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) in 1974 with the mission of changing the narrative around cheerleading, boosting its visibility and turning it into a globally recognized sport. His e orts included new uniform concepts, educational camps, training programs and the creation of the rst national cheerleading competition. These efforts evolved into Varsity Spirit.

“He helped pioneer the use of advanced gymnastics and stunts in cheer routines, launched the rst national cheerleading championships, and brought the sport to national audiences through televised broadcasts on ESPN,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “He also played a central role in developing the rst safety guidelines and helped establish key governing bodies, including the U.S. All Star Federation and USA Cheer.”

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did.” Webb’s children

Webb is survived by his wife, Gina, and his children, Je ery and Caroline.

“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did, from revolutionizing cheerleading to his never-ending — and constantly growing — list of activities,” Webb’s children wrote in a statement. “He brought that same spirit of dedication and encouragement to being a father and grandfather. To most people, he is a legendary entrepreneur — to us, he was our soccer coach and on-demand comedian, our mentor and father-daughter dance partner, our solace and our source of strength.”

He was also a conservative activist who was described as a mentor to Kirk, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.

Kirk’s company, Turning Point USA, posted a video in memory of Webb on social media.

“In memory of Je Webb,” the post reads. “A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country. A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”

Actor James Tolkan of ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ fame dies at 94

The actor spent 25 years in New York theater before his lm career

The Associated Press

JAMES TOLKAN, known for his roles as authoritarian gures in the hit lms “Back to the Future” and “Top Gun,” has died. He was 94.

Tolkan died last Thursday in Lake Placid, New York, where he lived, his booking agent, John Alcantar, said Saturday. A brief obituary published on the “Back to the Future” website said Tolkan died “peacefully,” but no cause of death was given.

In “Back to the Future,” Tolkan portrayed the bow tie-wearing vice principal Gerald Strickland, who eyeballed students for trouble in the halls of the ctitious Hill Valley High School — in particular Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox.

“You got a real attitude problem, McFly,” Tolkan’s character

says in the 1985 lm. “You’re a slacker. You remind me of your father when he went here. He was a slacker, too.”

Tolkan also appeared in “Top Gun” as commanding o cer Tom “Stinger” Jardian. Near the end of the lm, when Jardian asks Tom Cruise’s character, Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, about his choice for future duty, Mitchell replies that he wants to be a Top Gun instructor.

“God help us,” Tolkan’s character replies, laughing.

Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated from high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He eventually made his way to New York, where he spent a quarter century acting in theater roles. He was a member of the original ensemble cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who said in a statement that her husband also was an avid art collector and adored animals.

This undated image provided by the Tolkan family shows actor James Tolkan.

STATE & NATION

North Carolinian, three others make up rst planned mission to moon in half-century

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era. The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversied astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore,

was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade

moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will. As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wan-

na Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.” Despite having one space ight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as an much time and thought preparing them as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by

Apollo’s impatient old-timers rooting for NASA’s return to moon with Artemis II launch

Dwindling numbers are thrilled by Artemis but tired of decades of waiting

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The people who toiled night and day to put astronauts on the moon during Apollo are thrilled that NASA is nally going back. They just wish these Artemis moonshots had happened sooner while more of Apollo’s workforce was still alive.

Now in their 80s and 90s, the dwindling survivors of NASA’s greatest generation would also like to see more enthusiasm for Artemis.

So few of them are left from the original 400,000 that no reunion is planned to celebrate the upcoming Artemis II ight around the moon by four astronauts as soon as April 1. Those living near Florida’s Kennedy Space Center will watch the launch from their backyards.

“Because it was the rst time, there was an energy. There was a passion that probably is not exactly the same today and hasn’t been for a while,” said Charlie Mars, 90, who worked on Apollo’s command and lunar modules and helped establish the American Space Museum in nearby Titusville.

Retired engineer JoAnn Morgan is still fuming that the last three Apollo moon landings were canceled under President Richard Nixon’s watch because of budget cuts, risk concerns and shifting priorities. She was the lone woman inside launch control when Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins rocketed to the moon in 1969. Three years later, Apollo 17 closed out the grand era.

“I’m just trying to stay alive so I can see us actually get back and step foot on the moon,” she said. “I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

Morgan isn’t the only one frustrated with NASA’s —

“I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

JoAnn Morgan, retired engineer

and the nation’s — dawdling.

“It’s a good thing I’m not in charge,” Mars said, “because I would be out there beating the bushes and whipping up on people to get moving.”

One big di erence this time are all the women in key roles.

NASA’s Artemis launch director is Charlie Blackwell-Thompson. The Artemis II crew includes Christina Koch, who holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 consecutive days in orbit.

“It will be even greater when they actually have a woman who plants her boots on the moon,” Morgan said.

Apollo 16’s Charlie Duke points out that half the world’s population was not yet born

when he walked on the moon in 1972.

NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman, a tech billionaire who paid his own way to space twice, is one of them.

Apollo’s old-timers are heartened that the 43-year-old Isaacman is accelerating the pace of Artemis launches to more closely match Apollo’s speed and safety record. Artemis has been trudging along at a once-every-three-years ight rate, which Isaacman deems unacceptable.

He’s added a test ight in orbit around Earth to practice docking with lunar landers before they’re used to put astronauts on the moon. And last week, he released a blueprint for a moon base that, along with a battalion of lunar drones and rovers, is expected to cost $20 billion over the next seven years.

NASA’s self-described “moon base guy,” Carlos Garcia-Galan, promises “cool cameras” on everything to ramp up excitement. In the near term, the overrid-

NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

Dangers still loom — something he’s shared with his college-aged son and twin daughters. “The most likely outcome is that we will come back safe. There’s a chance we won’t, and you will be able to move through life even if that happens,” he assured them.

ing goal is to beat the Chinese to the lunar surface. NASA aims to land astronauts in 2028, China by 2030.

The U.S. trounced the Soviet space program in the rst race to the moon, landing 12 astronauts from 1969 through 1972. John Tribe, 90, who managed spacecraft propulsion for Apollo, considers NASA’s revised Artemis plan “a whole lot more sensible.”

“The other approach was ridiculous,” Tribe said. “Whether we’re going to beat the Chinese back, I don’t know.” Apollo 9’s Rusty Schweickart also likes the refashioned Artemis. As for topping Apollo’s excitement, though, good luck.

“We can all recall Columbus,” Schweickart said in an email, but who can remember “who came along 50 years afterward?”

One of only four moonwalkers still alive, Duke anticipates the thrill of Apollo will return once Artemis astronauts start landing, especially for the younger crowd that missed out before.

“If the rst ones are successful and we start landing at the south pole,” Duke said, “I think millions are going to be watching that. I know I will if I’m still here.”

MOORE COUNTY

Getting back home

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Supreme Court rules 8-1 against Colorado ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids

The Supreme Court has ruled against a law banning “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ kids in Colorado, one of about two dozen states that banned the discredited practice. The high court majority sided Tuesday with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning talk therapy violates the First Amendment. The justices agreed the law raises free speech concerns and sent it back to a lower court. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration supported the counselor. Colorado said the measure simply bars a practice of using therapy to try to “convert” LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality.

Wisconsin judicial panel dismisses Democratic attempt to redraw congressional maps

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin has dismissed a lawsuit brought by Democratic voters that sought to redraw the battleground state’s Republican-friendly congressional boundary lines ahead of the November midterm election. The Tuesday decision to dismiss the other case can be appealed to the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court. There is a second lawsuit pending also seeking to redraw the swing state’s congressional districts, but it isn’t slated to go to trial until April 2027.

Tillis, other senators to visit Taiwan before Trump’s summit with China’s Xi

Lawmakers look to improve ties with Taiwan, Japan and South Korea

By Stephen Groves The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of four senators has plans to visit Taiwan, Japan and South Korea in the coming days on a trip meant to bolster U.S. alliances seen as important to countering China’s dominance in Asia. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, announced the trip Saturday. She will be joined by Sens. John Curtis (R-Utah), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). Their visits to Tai-

pei, Tokyo and Seoul are coming before President Donald Trump’s trip to Beijing in May for a rescheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The lawmakers’ stop in Taiwan could draw scrutiny from China, which opposes such relations and sees them as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over the self-governing island. Taiwan relies on American backing for its democracy, but recent moves by Trump, such as discussing a potential weapons sales to Taiwan with Xi, have raised questions about the future direction of U.S. policy.

Analysts in both China and the United States believe Xi, through the leader-level summit, will try to in uence Trump to soften the U.S. stance on Taiwan.

Sanford, former

makes a

“This bipartisan delegation demonstrates Congress’ commitment to these alliances and partnerships is unwavering and will endure well beyond any one administration,” Shaheen said in a statement.

In a show of reassurance to the Asian allies, the lawmakers plan to meet with political leaders and defense o cials on their trip.

“Our alliance with Taiwan is one of the most strategically and morally signi cant partnerships America has in the Indo-Paci c,” Curtis said.

It remains to be seen how Trump’s intervention in Venezuela, Iran and elsewhere could in uence other powers such as China and Russia. But there is some concern among

South Carolina governor,

bid to again return to Congress

He’s trying for his former seat with an emphasis on the national debt

By Meg Kinnard and Je rey Collins The Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mark Sanford, the former South Carolina congressman and governor whose political ascendency was stalled by a 2009 a air, wants to return to Congress — again. Just hours ahead of the deadline to do so, Sanford led candidacy paperwork with state o cials to run in the June 9 GOP primary for South Carolina’s 1st District seat, which he has held twice before. Sanford’s

ELISE AMENDOLA / AP PHOTO Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford speaks during a news conference in 2019 in Concord, New Hampshire.

through a crowded primary and then knocking o the last Democrat to hold the o ce. But his eight years were overshadowed by the Appalachian Trail, which became shorthand for Sanford’s disappearance to go to Argentina to see his lover. Sanford’s wife, family and his sta didn’t know where he was. Beating back both an ethics inquiry and calls to resign, Sanford held fast, leaving o ce on his own terms. In 2013, Sanford won back his old seat, beating 15 other candidates in a primary and runo . He won two more full terms before falling to a GOP challenger in 2018 who had President Donald Trump’s backing. The seat would go on to ip to Democratic hands that fall

4.2.26

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King Charles to address Congress later this month

He will be the rst British monarch to address Congress in more than three decades

By Stephen Groves The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

King Charles III will deliver an address to Congress during his visit to Washington in late April, becoming the rst British monarch to give a speech to a joint meeting of U.S. lawmakers in more than three decades.

The joint address was announced on Wednesday by congressional leaders, who said it was part of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. declaring independence from Britain. The speech also comes at

a time of friction between the two nations, which have since become close allies.

President Donald Trump’s “America First” foreign policy has called into question the U.S. commitment to European allies, and Britain has declined to support the U.S. involvement in the war in Iran.

Still, congressional leaders emphasized the close relationship between the U.S. and Britain.

“The American experiment endures in no small part because of the British tradition from which it sprang,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Democratic leader Hakeem Je ries, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer in a letter addressed to Charles. “We believe an Ad-

dress to Congress will provide a unique opportunity to share your vision for the future of our special relationship and reafrm our alliance at this pivotal time in history.”

In Britain, some members of Parliament have called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to cancel the state visit by Charles in retaliation for Trump lashing out at them for declining to support the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Starmer decided to proceed with the state visit, which could potentially ease the tensions caused by the war.

The pomp and circumstance of state visits by the British monarch have been used for years to bolster relations with countries around the world. Queen Elizabeth II was the last British monarch to deliver a joint address to Congress, in 1991.

moore happening

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

April 3

Easter Bunny at the Airport 10 a.m.

The fourth annual Easter Bunny at the Airport o ers free family fun at Moore County Airport, with the Easter Bunny on site for photos and holiday activities. Moore County Airport 7825 Aviation Drive Carthage

April 4

We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: moorecommunity@ northstatejournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

March 23

• Jamal Karone Howell, 33, of Aberdeen, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for assault with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

• Angeleke Jamae Bryant, 23, of Cameron, was arrested by MCSO for eeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle; reckless driving with wanton disregard; driving on a revoked license; no liability insurance; ctitious or altered title, registration card or tag; driving or allowing a motor vehicle with no registration; driving without two headlamps; driving left of center; failure to maintain lane control and white/clear light on rear while driving forward.

• Alisha Rae Morgan, 32, of Star, was arrested by MCSO for second-degree trespass.

• Dakota Devonta Ray, 29, of Cameron, was arrested by MCSO for eeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle; reckless driving with wanton disregard; driving on a revoked license; no liability insurance; ctitious or altered title, registration card or tag; driving or allowing a motor vehicle with no registration; driving without two headlamps; driving left of center; failure to maintain lane control and white/clear light on rear while driving forward.

• Anderson Stewart Townsend, 19, of Robbins, was arrested by MCSO for larceny of a motor vehicle and posses stolen motor vehicle.

SANFORD from page A1 for the rst time in decades, won back by GOP Rep. Nancy Mace in 2020. Mace is running for governor this year. Sanford, 65, also brie y ran for president in 2020, challenging Trump for the nomination in what he characterized as a “long shot” e ort around warnings about the national debt. Some, including Sanford’s former gubernatorial sta ers, initially questioned whether the e ort was a seri-

TAIWAN from page A1

lawmakers that the Republican president’s actions could be seen as giving those countries an opening for their own foreign moves. The economic relationship with Taiwan has also

March 24

• Antonio Javon McNeill, 30, of Cameron, was arrested by MCSO for ling a false report to a police station and misuse of the 911 system.

• Zarria Demitra Sampson, 25, of Sanford, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and disorderly conduct.

March 26

• Jazzlin Marie Bowman, 24, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by School Resource for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Barbara Brady, 61, of Biscoe, was arrested by First Carolina Company PD for assault phy inj emergency prsn.

• Jesus Fabian Ramos-Mendoza, 33, of Biscoe, was arrested by Robbins PD for possession of methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia; ctitious or altered title, registration card or tag; driving on a revoked license; driving or allowing a motor vehicle with no registration; open container after consuming alcohol and driving without two headlamps.

• David Owens Smith, 38, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods and injury to real property.

ous one, positing that it might be an e ort to stay relevant after the 2018 defeat. Sanford dropped out of the contest just ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Sanford’s home state would ultimately opt not to hold a 2020 GOP presidential primary, clearing the way for Trump’s nomination in South Carolina. Sanford did not immediately return a message seeking comment on Monday. True to the themes that have dominated his political thinking,

come under scrutiny from the Trump administration. The U.S. is reliant on Taiwan for its production of computer chips, which contributed to a trade imbalance of nearly $127 billion during the rst 11 months of 2025.

The Trump administration

James Earl Williams, 43, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by School Resource for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Edward Lamont Womble, 22, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for second degree kidnaping, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, communicating threats, interfering with emergency communication and assault with a deadly weapon minor present.

March 27

• Chris Andre Hernandez, 25, of Candor, was arrested by MCSO for eeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle, posses stolen motor vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, resisting a public o cer, possession of drug paraphernalia, reckless driving with wanton disregard, aggressive driving, driving without an operator’s license, second-degree trespass, injury to personal property, failure to stop at a stop sign or ashing red light, exceeding the posted speed limit, driving left of center, failure to maintain lane control and speed in excess of 25 mph.

• Dawn Johnson Obrien, 62, of Spring Lake, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, reckless driving to endanger persons or property, driving without an operator’s license, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving left of center and failure to yield.

an email release on Sanford’s candidacy focused on the national debt, with the candidate saying he felt 1st District voters wanted a representative “who is an advocate for nancial sanity that has been lost in Washington for all too long.“ Since leaving the U.S. House, Sanford has hung onto more than $1.3 million in a federal campaign account, funds that he can now use in a primary already crowded with multiple Republican and Democratic candidates.

reached a deal with Taiwan in February that removed 99% of its trade barriers.

During another visit by a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers last year, they emphasized that the U.S. would continue to partner closely with Taiwan.

Victoria Renee Parrish, 23, of Denton, was arrested by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

March 28

• Enrique Vega Falcon, 30, of Fayetteville, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for assault on a government o cial, intoxicated and disruptive and resisting a public o cer.

• Amanda Marie Rogers, 29, of Callahan, Fla., was arrested by Southern Pines PD for simple assault and resisting a public o cer.

• Charlie Ernesto Whitaker, 34, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for assault on a female, misd crime of domestic violence and resisting a public o cer.

March 29

• Montie Lamont Chavis, 18, of Pineblu , was arrested by Aberdeen PD for driving after consuming < 21.

• Marquis Devante Baker, 32, of Aberdeen, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for common law robbery, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, assault on a female, interfering with emergency communication, false imprisonment and assault in icting serious injury.

• Austin Lee Creech, 34, of Asheboro, was arrested by Robbins PD for driving while impaired, expired registration, failure to maintain lane control and expired or no inspection.

Herbfest — The Herb Cameron Music Festival 2 p.m.

Sunrise Theater presents the annual Herbfest, a free all-day indoor and outdoor music festival honoring local live-music champion Herb Cameron, featuring Sicard Hollow, Ben Chapman and Meg McRee and headliner Jesse Roper; a portion of donations bene ts Parkinson’s research. thepinestimes.com/event/ sunrise-theater-presents-theherb-cameron-music-festival

Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines

Ithika Acres Spring Open Farm Day 10 a.m.

Ithika Acres opens its gates to the public for its annual spring farm day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free; donations appreciated. moorechoices.net/eventcalendar-moore-county-nc Ithika Acres Moore County (exact address TBD)

April 11

Pinehurst Spring Matinee Races 11 a.m.

The Village of Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Department and the Pinehurst Driving and Training Club host six harness races at the oldest continuously operating equine facility in North Carolina; gates open at 11 a.m. with races beginning at 1 p.m. Admission is $5; children 12 and under free. thepinestimes.com/event/ pinehurst-spring-matineeraces

Pinehurst Harness Track 200 Beulah Hill Road Pinehurst

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| LARRY ELDER

Exclusive ‘interview’: Gavin Newsom on his possible presidential launch

We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries.

Napa Valley, California — The French Laundry, March 3, 2026

Gavin Newsom is weighing a presidential run at a moment when “a ordability” dominates voter concerns across the country. I’m conducting this interview from his preferred corner table at The French Laundry where, during COVID, he dined maskless with lobbyists while millions of Californians lived under his pandemic lockdown rules and policies.

Elder: Governor, you’re running on a ordability. Yet rankings place California among the least a ordable states. How do you sell when the state is the poster boy for sky-high costs?

Newsom: First, I prefer the term poster-person. Second, this is just right-wing MAGA Trumpian spin. A ordability isn’t some pedestrian metric generated by spreadsheets and right-wing calculators. It’s a lifestyle elevation. Californians don’t complain about prices; they embrace them as badges of civic virtue. A $500 prix xe isn’t indulgence. It’s ethical consumption. We curate excellence while yover states settle for adequacy.

Elder: The median home price in California is $850,000, roughly double the national average. Families are relocating to Texas and Tennessee to buy a home.

Newsom: Elevated prices are proof of enlightened stewardship. Climate change regulations, coastal commissions and equity impact statements aren’t barriers. They’re safeguards against the chaos of unrestrained a ordability. We don’t simply build houses in California. We sculpt sanctuaries. We’ll embrace scarcity with gratitude. True a ordability is spiritual; it’s attitudinal. Californians cherish what we can’t own while

proudly owning what we can’t truly cherish, if you will.

Elder: Gasoline in California is nearing $8 per gallon — the highest in the nation, even exceeding import-dependent Hawaii.

Newsom: It’s Trump’s war.

Elder: But California had the nation’s highest gas prices before the war.

Newsom: I prefer not to look back. I look forward. We’re not merely dispensing hydrocarbons. We’re dispensing cosmic accountability. Hawaii imports fuel; California exports spiritual virtue. In California, our pump prices re ect the full carbon penance. Your conscience will thank you. So will the polar bears.

Elder: California’s top income-tax rate is at 13.3%, including its mental-health services tax. High earners are leaving, which shrinks the state tax base.

Newsom: Taxes are communal purpose made visible. They fund our collective aspirations — universal services, early education and yoga sessions. If some a uent residents depart, well, that’s evolutionary pruning. The truly committed remain. And most of those who leave eventually return for the climate, the coastline and the Korean food. As president, I’ll end the racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, anti-trans race to the low-tax havens of white supremacy.

Elder: You created a reparations task force even though California was not a slave state. How do you explain that?

Newsom: Tell that to Kunta Kinte. Tell that to Jesse Jackson. Tell that to Jussie Smollett. California has moved beyond the binary relics of conventional logic, which is a contemporary right-wing form of systemic oppression. California reparations represent an alchemical transformation that converts historical guilt

into good vibrations, which, of course, create excitations.

Elder: California school ratings are near the bottom nationally. Its water infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth. It has poor forest management. It has a huge gap between the rich and the poor. It has the nation’s largest unfunded pension liability. It has more illegal aliens and more homeless than any other state. The high-speed rail project grows ever more costly.

Newsom: We’re bound to be No. 1. We don’t take a back seat to anyone. We don’t follow outdated paradigms — we transcend them. The nation can evolve with us here in California or remain anchored in nostalgic decline. As Bruce Lee said, “Be like water.”

Elder: On biological males competing in women’s sports, you’ve o ered little clarity.

Newsom: Biology is an outdated science narrative. We reject narrative. We believe in prose. As president, athletics will evolve into a rming civic rituals — participation over exclusion, identity over rigidity. Fairness is a feeling, and our feelings are second to none.

Elder: You appointed a black woman to the Senate after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s death, saying it was time for black women to ascend. If Vice President Kamala Harris runs in 2028, wouldn’t your candidacy prevent the election of the rst black female president?

Newsom: Racial leadership is a journey, not a tra c jam. History has a way of harmonizing these moments. I’ll leave it there.

Elder: Thank you, Governor.

Newsom: The check’s on me. Consider it reparations.

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Are we safe anymore?

The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Still, the divide is stark.

IT’S TIME to ask some serious questions.

As spring travel ramps up, a record 171 million Americans are expected to take to the skies. Airports will be crowded, security lines long, and for many travelers, a fundamental question will linger: Are we safe?

That question extends far beyond the airport terminal. It surfaces at the southern border, in major American cities and in the wake of tragedies like the killing of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago.

Gorman, a student at Loyola University, was shot and killed while walking with friends along a pier in Rogers Park. According to prosecutors, the group encountered a man hiding near a lighthouse. As they ed, he allegedly opened re, striking Gorman in the back. Authorities say the suspect, a Venezuelan national, had previously entered the United States illegally and had prior contact with law enforcement before being released. The case has reignited debate over immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies and public safety. Critics argue that policies limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities can have serious consequences. Chicago’s sanctuary status, they note, restricts such coordination.

In this instance, the suspect had reportedly been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting months earlier but was not turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supporters of stricter enforcement contend that more consistent cooperation could prevent repeat o enses. They argue that when individuals who are in the country unlawfully are released after prior arrests, the system has failed to mitigate potential risks.

Others, however, caution against drawing broad conclusions from a single case. Some local o cials have emphasized the complexity of crime and the need to avoid politicizing individual tragedies. Chicago leaders have also reiterated longstanding concerns about overreliance on incarceration, arguing that deeper social issues contribute to violence. Still, the divide is stark.

On one side are those who believe enforcement — whether at the border or within cities — must be strengthened to ensure public safety. On the other are those who argue that enforcement alone cannot address the root causes of crime and that policy responses must be broader in scope.

Meanwhile, the political backdrop adds another layer of tension. A funding dispute a ecting the Department of Homeland

Security has raised concerns about sta ng and operations, including airport security. Reports of long TSA lines have only heightened public anxiety, even as federal o cials work to manage the strain.

Even traditionally critical voices have acknowledged that personnel shifts, including assistance from other federal agencies, have helped ease some delays.

But for many Americans, the broader question remains unresolved.

Public safety — whether in neighborhoods, at the border or in transit hubs — continues to be one of the most powerful forces shaping political opinion. Incidents like the killing of Gorman bring that concern into sharp focus, forcing policymakers and the public alike to confront di cult questions about accountability, enforcement and priorities.

As millions prepare to board planes in the coming weeks, those questions won’t be easily dismissed.

And for voters, they may prove decisive.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Apollo vs. Artemis: What to know about NASA’s return to the moon

Artemis brings greater diversity to humanity’s return to lunar orbit

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. —

NASA’s Apollo moonshots are a tough act to follow, even after all this time.

As four astronauts get set to blast o on humanity’s rst trip to the moon in more than half a century, comparisons between Apollo and NASA’s new Artemis program are inevitable.

The world’s rst lunar visitors orbited the moon on Apollo 8. The Artemis II crew will play it safe and zip around the moon in an out-and-back slingshot.

Another key di erence: Artemis re ects more of society, with a woman, person of color and Canadian rocketing away.

While Artemis builds on Apollo and pays homage to it, “there is no way we could be that same mission or ever hope to even be,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch, part of the Artemis II crew.

Here’s the lowdown on Apollo vs. Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as NASA targets the rst six days of April for lifto .

Run-up to the moon

It took NASA just eight years to go from putting its rst astronaut in space to putting Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in 1969, beating President John Kennedy’s end-of-decade deadline.

“The Apollo program still just absolutely blows me away,” said Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency, Artemis has progressed much more slowly, after decades of indecision and ip- opping between the moon and Mars as the next grand destination. NASA’s new moon rocket, the Space Launch System, or SLS, has soared only once in a test ight without anyone on board more than three years ago.

This plodding approach is why NASA’s new administrator, Jared Isaacman, overhauled the Artemis program in February. Keen to emulate Apollo, he added a mission between the upcoming Artemis II mission and the moon landing that’s now shifted to Artemis IV in 2028.

During next year’s revamped Artemis III, astronauts will stick closer to home the same way Apollo 9 did in 1969. Instead of attempting a moon landing as originally envisioned, they will practice docking their Orion capsule in orbit around Earth with one or both

lunar landers under development by Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Je Bezos’ Blue Origin. The rival companies are accelerating work on their landers in a bid to be rst.

Political rivalries

The Soviets were America’s erce rivals during Apollo, but their moon rockets kept exploding at lifto and they eventually gave up. Now the Chinese are the competition.

China already has landed robotic spacecraft on the moon’s far side — the only nation to achieve that — and is scrambling to land astronauts near the lunar south pole by 2030.

NASA is aiming for the same polar region, where shadowed craters are thought to hold vast amounts of ice that could provide drinking water and rocket fuel. Like his predecessor Bill Nelson, Isaacman is deter-

mined to beat China to the nish line and win this second space race.

Moon rocket

Apollo’s Saturn V rockets stood 363 feet, with ve rst-stage engines. The Artemis SLS rocket comes in at 322 feet but packs more lifto thrust with its four main engines and two strap-on boosters.

All but one Saturn V rocket soared from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39-A, now leased by SpaceX. NASA will use neighboring pad 39-B for all SLS ights. While the Saturn V launched twice before carrying astronauts, the SLS has own only once. Hydrogen fuel leaks delayed the SLS debut in 2022 and struck again during a countdown test in February, stalling Artemis II. Then helium trouble reappeared, causing further delay.

NASA is now targeting an April lifto . Launch Control remains at the same place. There was one woman in the packed ring room for the lifto of Apollo 11.

Now a woman leads it: Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson.

First lunar crews

Apollo 8 still ranks as the gutsiest space mission of all time. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and Bill Anders became the rst humans to launch to the moon in 1968. Borman, the commander, insisted on as few lunar orbits as possible given the risks. He and his bosses settled on 10 orbits as a warmup for 1969’s moonwalk by Armstrong and Aldrin.

NASA decided long ago against orbiting the moon on Artemis’ crew debut, judging it too dangerous. The main goal is to test the Orion capsule’s life-support equipment, ying for the rst time.

One big similarity between Apollo 8 and Artemis II is the troubled times surrounding them.

“If we can contribute a little bit to hope for humanity,” said Artemis II pilot Victor Glover of NASA, “that is a huge thing.”

Shades of Apollo 13

The Artemis astronauts will orbit Earth for a day to make certain everything is working properly before igniting the main engine and heading for the moon. It will take three to four days for the capsule to reach the moon and continue some 5,000 miles beyond, ex-

ceeding the distance record set by 1970’s ill-fated Apollo 13. Like Apollo 13, Artemis II will take advantage of the moon and Earth’s gravity, making a gure eight after whipping around the moon to head home in what’s known as a free-return trajectory requiring little if any fuel. It got Apollo 13’s three astronauts safely back although they had to abandon their moon landing.

Artemis astronauts will parachute into the Paci c after their mission like the Apollo crews did.

Suiting up

For Apollo, the white, bulky spacesuits did double duty. What the astronauts wore for launch and return was the same for moonwalks since there wasn’t enough storage space for di erent out ts.

The Orion capsules for Artemis are bigger, designed to hold four astronauts instead of three plus two sets of spacesuits. NASA created brand new spacesuits for use inside the capsule, while turning to private companies for the moonwalking attire.

Commander Reid Wiseman and his crew will wear the orange custom- tted suits for launch and reentry. They’ll also use them in case of a depressurization or some other emergency. They can survive up to six days in the suits, inserting a straw into the helmet to sip water or protein shakes and relying on undergarment bags and bladders as a built-in toilet.

Houston-based Axiom Space is designing the white moonwalking suits that will accompany future Artemis crews.

Long-term goals

Apollo was all about beating the Russians to the moon and planting the U.S. ag. Astronauts landed six times from 1969 through 1972, with the longest surface stay lasting 75 hours. Five of the 24 Apollo astronauts who ew to the moon are still alive. For the rst Artemis moon landing, a pair of astronauts could spend nearly a week there. It’s a complicated plan compared with Apollo.

Artemis moonwalkers will launch to the moon aboard Orion and, once in lunar orbit, transfer to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon, whichever is ready rst. They’ll descend to the surface, and, after a few days, blast back into orbit to rendezvous with their Orion capsule. Orion will be the astronauts’ ride home.

NASA is striving for sustained lunar living, with Mars to follow, although “day one of the moon base is not going to look like this glass-enclosed, domed city,” Isaacman said. Last week, he unveiled a blueprint for the moon base showing habitats, rovers, drones, power stations and more. NASA plans to invest $20 billion over the next seven years.

MOORE SPORTS

SPRING SPORTS ROUNDUP

Union Pines continues historic softball run

North State Journal sta BASEBALL

Pinecrest extended its winning streak to nine before closing the week with back-to-back losses. The Patriots won 12-2 at Jack Britt before losing the rematch at home 7-4. Pinecrest closed the week with a 7-5 nonconference loss at home to Myers Park.

The Patriots are now 9-3, 6-1 in conference, tying them with Richmond for rst in the Mid-South 7A/8A. This week, Pinecrest has a conference home and home with Overhills then travels to Uwharrie Charter and Pine Lake Prep.

Union Pines split four games, with a pair of home-and-home sweeps — one in each direction.

The Vikings are 9-5 on the year, 5-3 in conference. Union Pines lost 10-0 at Southern Lee, then dropped a home game 7-3 to close the series. They had better luck against Montgomery, winning 8-0 there and at home 9-2. This week, Union Pines has a home and home with Western Harnett, a game at Southern Alamance and against Uwharrie Charter.

North Moore has now lost ve straight after dropping three games last week. The Mustangs were swept by Northwood, 13-2 at home and 12-2 on the road. They also fell to Freedom Christian 13-1.

This week, North Moore has a home and home with Chatham Central. The Mustangs are 4-7, 1-5 in conference.

GIRLS’ SOCCER

Pinecrest won its only game last week to improve to 9-0-2 on the season, 3-0 in conference.

The Patriots won 2-0 at Over-

hills, getting goals from Jane Dare Trumbo and Grace Clark. This week, Pinecrest has a game at Hoke and a home match against Richmond. Union Pines split two games last week and sit at 7-4-1 on the season, 5-0 in conference. The Vikings shut out Southern Lee on the road 6-0, getting a hat trick from Kylie DiMayo, who also assisted on a goal. Union Pines was then on the wrong end of a 2-0 shutout, losing on the road at Corinth Holders.

This week, Union Pines has a home-and-home series with conference foe Western Harnett.

North Moore was unbeaten in two games last week with a win and a tie, moving to 5-2-1 on the year, 0-1 in conference. The Mustangs shut out Chatham Charter 8-0 at home and then had a scoreless tie with Sandhills Homeschool. This week, the Mustangs have a road game at Ascend Leadership Academy.

SOFTBALL

Pinecrest won their fourth

Pinecrest’s Jane Dare Trumbo, shown here handling the ball against Pine Forest, had a goal in the Patriots’ win over Overhills last week.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Joey Ring

straight game and then dropped three in a row. The Patriots beat Jack Britt 6-5 on the road. Then Pinecrest lost 14-11 at home to Western Harnett and 8-6 to Jack Britt. A road loss to Montgomery went 11 innings with a 22-21 nal score. Pinecrest is now 6-4 on the year, 1-1 in conference.

This week, the Patriots have a home-and-home set against Overhills.

Union Pines won three more games last week and are now 14-0, 8-0 in conference. The Vikings swept a home and home with Southern Lee by a combined 38-3 score. They also won 12-2 at Overhills.

This week, the Vikings have a home and home against Western Harnett.

North Moore dropped a pair last week to fall to 4-7 on the year, 1-5 in conference. The Mustangs were swept by Northwood in a home-and-home series, losing at home 15-2 and on the road by a 5-1 margin.

This week, North Moore has a pair of games at Western Harnett.

Union Pines, baseball

Joey Ring is a senior on the Union Pines baseball team. He is committed to play college ball at Chowan.

Ring went the distance on the mound, throwing a shutout against Montgomery for a win. He helped his own cause by going 2 for 4 at the plate with a double and three RBIs.

Close sounds warning on coaching’s new grind as UCLA’s postseason run rolls on

NIL and transfer rules changes have made the job all consuming

By Doug Feinberg

The Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

Cori Close isn’t sure how much longer she will be coaching. The responsibilities of coaches have changed a lot in her 33 years in the game, especially in the last few years.

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this,” said Close, of No. 1 seed UCLA. “And I’m just being transparent with you about that. There are so many things that are harder, and we keep losing incredible people on the men’s and the women’s side.”

Between the transfer portal, name, image and likeness, and revenue sharing, coaching has changed. It’s not just about recruiting players from high school, but also now about keeping a team together each season and guring out how much money each player will make through revenue sharing.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley said she welcomes change and likes the challenge of guring out ways to be still be successful — something she’s excelled at with three national championships in the last nine years.

“When that leaves me, then I know it’s time for me to move on,” the 55-year-old Staley said.

Staley said she’s seen the sport become more transactional the last few years.

“We can try to keep core principles of who we are as coaches and the sanctity of the team,”

she said. “For me, I coach from my days being on the Olympic team. That is how I coach. Meaning I try to coach where the team is the team success. Then we know that individuals make up the success of a team. You deal with each player and have them try to get them in a position where they understand their worth.”

Staley has seen the change the last few years with the additions of NIL.

“NIL has really changed everything. Like it really has changed. I mean, how you have

to move day to day. You got to make sure psychologically our kids are in a good place. Mentally, they’re in a good place, and they’re parents,” Staley said. “So you’re actually having to do a lot of work and if you’re not used to that part of it, you know, it will it will run you out of the business.”

Staley relishes the two hours each day that her team practices because nothing else enters the space at that time and she can just focus on coaching.

“The 22 hours beyond that, you have to go and exhaust

yourself and make sure everyone is good from day to day, from week to week and denitely in the postseason,” Staley said.

The transfer portal was moved this year to open the day after the national championship game, as opposed to during the NCAA Tournament.

“If there’s one thing I would ask of our governing bodies and the NCAA and our administrations, it is please develop infrastructure and boundaries that create an opportunity to have sustained excellence and sus-

“I’ve never been as tired as I’ve been in the last two years, and it’s made me think how much longer I can do this.”

Cori Close, UCLA coach

tainable pace,” said Close, who is in her 15th season at UCLA. “Otherwise, we are going to continue to lose some of our best coaches, and I do not think our game can a ord to do that.”

Some longtime coaches have stepped down over the past few seasons for a variety of reasons, including for health issues. Others have mulled retirement.

Louisville coach Je Walz didn’t sound close to retirement when the 54-year-old in his 19th season with the Cardinals was told of Close’s comments.

“I’m friends with Cori,” Walz said. “My favorite line, I would tell her, if you don’t like your job, nd a new job. I mean, I’m listening this morning at 4:20 as the workers outside my window at the hotel in the street are working. I mean, you choose your profession. If you don’t like it, nd a new profession.”

“I mean, of course, it’s a lot of work, but we chose to do it and we get compensated for it,” Walz said. “I don’t think anybody is going to feel too sorry for us that you might be tired. I’m tired, too, but who is not?”

Wolverines coach Kim Barnes Arico said coaching fatigue is less about age and more about adaptation.

“A few years ago when all this started to come into play, I knew as a coach and I talked to our players and I talked to our sta , times are changing,” Barnes Arico said. “We need to evolve. We need to grow. We need to step up to the challenges, because if we can’t, the game, the landscape, all of it is going to pass us by.”

SIDELINE REPORT

FIGURE SKATING

Malinin bounces back, wins 3rd straight world gure skating title

Prague Ilia Malinin reeled o one huge jump after another, and a back ip for good measure, to retain his world championship title for the third year running. Malinin landed ve high-scoring quadruple jumps but not his pioneering quad axel, a jump he didn’t attempt at the Olympics. Malinin scored 218.11 in the free skate for a total 329.40 on Saturday, far ahead of silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama of Japan on 306.67. Another Japanese skater, Shun Sato, was third on 288.54.

NBA

Lakers’ Doncic suspended 1 game by NBA after 16th technical foul

New York

Luka Doncic was suspended one game by the NBA after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. The league announced that Doncic was suspended after a scu e in the Lakers’ win over Brooklyn. Ziaire Williams yelled in Doncic’s space after an o ensive foul call. Doncic pushed Williams’ arm and Williams swiped across Doncic’s face. O cials reviewed the play and gave both players technicals. Under NBA rules, the 16th technical triggers an automatic suspension without pay.

NBA James passes to James for 3-pointer, NBA’s rst father-son assist Los Angeles

LeBron James literally passed it on to the next generation. The NBA says James recorded the league’s rst father-to-son assist when he passed to Bronny James for a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Brooklyn. The Lakers’ father-and-son duo played meaningful minutes together for the second straight game. Bronny James was on court with his father for nearly 41⁄2 minutes when they checked in together to start the second quarter.

WNBA

Sun reach deal to sell to Rockets owner, move team to Houston in 2027

The Connecticut Sun have reached an agreement to sell the team to Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta for $300 million and will move to Houston in 2027. The WNBA Board of Governors still needs to approve the sale and the move. The team will play in Connecticut for the upcoming season before moving to Houston and becoming the Comets. This will end a 23-year run by the team in New England after the team moved to Connecticut from Orlando in 2003.

Elliott beats Hamlin at Martinsville for 1st Cup Series win of season

It is the Hendrick driver’s 22nd career win

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

MARTINSVILLE, VA. —

The strategy calls don’t always work out for Chase Elliott in the Cup Series. So when the plan comes together — as it did in a victory at Martinsville Speedway — it’s especially sweet for NASCAR’s eight-time most popular driver and his legions of adoring fans.

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough,” Elliott said while celebrating on the frontstetch to huge cheers after his rst win this season and the 22nd of his career. “So just really, really grateful for the opportunity. I never take it for granted. Trust me, this is a dream come true for me.”

The 30-year-old from Dawsonville, Georgia, capitalized on a shrewd gamble by crew chief Alan Gustafson to pit the No. 9 Chevrolet earlier than the other contenders. When the caution ew on the 312th lap, Elliott was in second behind Denny Hamlin and pitted with the rest of the lead-lap drivers aside from Ross Chastain, who took the lead by staying on track.

Elliott took rst from Chastain after a restart and led the nal 69 laps to win by 0.565 seconds over Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota.

“It was de nitely a team effort,” Elliott said after his second win on the 0.526-mile oval. “That was awesome. So proud of Alan and the whole team. They did a great job, and we took a gamble. But just so proud of them. They put up with a lot, and they got to put up with me all the time. So I just appreciate them for sticking with me.”

Joey Logano nished third, followed by Ty Gibbs and William Byron.

Elliott, who has been voted NASCAR’s most popular driver annually since 2018, led 84

“It’s really cool when this stu works out, and to win these races is so tough.”

Chase Elliott

laps in delivering the rst win this year for Hendrick Motorsports. The winningest team in Cup history has a record 31 victories at Martinsville.

Gustafson, whose calls are frequently second-guessed by one of NASCAR’s biggest fan bases whenever Elliott struggles, said he got a supportive call Sunday morning from team owner Rick Hendrick.

“He’s like, ‘Everything’s great, love you guys, playing the long game, and this is a marathon, not a sprint,’” Gustafson said in recounting the conversation. “But nevertheless, when

the boss calls you, it gets your attention.”

The decision was virtually a no-brainer for Gustafson after Elliott started 10th and ran mostly outside the top ve for the rst half of the 400-lap race.

“We were just kind of trapped in like the 10th spot,” Gustafson said. “It’s really hard to pass, and we just need to do something di erent. I just felt like it was worth a shot. And when we pitted early, I think it just drug a lot of guys down. Obviously, the caution’s great. It gave us track position, and the rest is history.”

Hamlin, who has a series-best six wins at Martinsville, started from the pole position and dominated, leading 292 of the rst 317 laps. The Joe Gibbs Racing star got shu ed from the lead during a pit stop sequence under a yellow ag that began on the 312th lap and then lost momentum on the en-

March Madness meets the iPad era

How

coaches’

challenges are changing the game

By Maura Carey The Associated Press

FLORIDA’S Boogie Fland was driving to the basket with 1:10 remaining and a three-point lead over Iowa when Hawkeyes forward Cooper Koch stepped into the lane, swatted at the ball and it sailed out of bounds. O cials ruled it Florida’s ball.

Iowa coach Ben McCollum quickly consulted video coordinator Jace Smith, who checked his iPad and nodded yes — go for it.

“I had a very clear view,” Smith said. “Once I saw it, I felt pretty con dent, so it was an instant yes. That was a big moment.”

McCollum challenged the call and won; Fland had touched it last. Iowa took possession and outscored Florida 5-1 in thenal minute to oust the defending champion and 1-seeded Gators with a 73-72 win and advance to the Sweet 16 for the rst time since 1999. That the tournament’s biggest thriller so far was set up in part by a coach’s challenge is something that wouldn’t have been possible in years past. This season is the rst where coaches are allowed to challenge certain calls by o ciating crews. The rule change was approved in June, and eight months later, it’s still an adjustment for even the most experienced sta s. When used correctly, a challenge can ip a game in seconds. But the Gators already knew that.

Florida’s chances of winning a mid-January game at Vanderbilt were slipping when video coordinator Nolan Crist

NC State’s Reed Vial, left, and Patrick Stacy, center, watch a replay during a game against Duke.

spotted an on-court tangle. He checked the iPad, sideline discussions commenced and what followed changed the game. Coach Todd Golden’s challenge revealed a hook-and-hold, which led to a seven-point swing and boosted Florida’s win probability by roughly 30%. The Gators went on to beat Vanderbilt by four.

Like Iowa, Florida turned to its video coordinator when challenges were introduced. Crist, like all the others, has seconds to make a recommendation.

NCAA men’s teams get one challenge per game and must have a timeout to use it. If the call is overturned, the timeout is retained and the team gets one other challenge. If the call stands, the timeout is lost and no further challenges are allowed. Challenges aren’t used in the women’s game, but coaches can appeal calls. There is no limit on the number of appeals, but a failed one can cost a team a timeout if available. An unsuccessful appeal without an available timeout results in a technical foul and two free throws and

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan (Crist, team video coordinator), he understands it’s his time to shine.”

Todd Golden, Florida coach

possession for the opponent. For Florida, when a potentially challenge-worthy play unfolds on the court all eyes turn to Crist.

“When a play happens, and every coach turns around and looks at Nolan, he understands it’s his time to shine and gure out what we need to do,” Golden said.

A similar process is followed at NC State, where assistant general manager Patrick Stacy ran the system for the men’s team. Stacy keeps a tablet running next to him — sometimes on the oor next to his

suing restart. He also thought a loose wheel caused his handling to fade in the nal stage.

“(Elliott) did a good job of controlling the pace there,” Hamlin said. “It just really came from that bad restart I had. Just not much really I could have done, and it felt like we gave it our all. We’ll check it out here, but I just thought the wheel was loose here on that last run. Either way, these are just some of the races that get away from you and your career.”

The win came 11 years to the day of Elliott’s debut in the Cup Series. He nished 38th in the March 29, 2015, race that was won by Hamlin. Elliott said he was reminded of the anniversary at an autograph session Sunday morning.

“A couple fans that were here that day came up to me and told me about it,” Elliott said. “So I got to thinking about it. Really cool to kind of see all that come full circle.”

bench seat, other times leaning against the scorer’s table — while tracking play calls and lineups during the game.

“On any close play, I don’t wait for the call, I just instantly look down and watch the replay and then start clicking rewind,” Stacy said. “If I hear the call went our direction, I’ll obviously put the iPad down and stop reviewing it. If it didn’t, then my clock of that 10 to 15 seconds has started, and we’ve got to make a decision on if it’s the best option or to challenge or not.”

“It’s not just a one-person decision. Usually, you’ll hear from the bench what they think. … Then coach will look at it and we kind of come to a consensus,” Stacy said.

A complex dynamic with o cials

The introduction of challenges has changed dynamics beyond the bench. Video replays are now inaccessible to o cials until the nal two minutes of the game, meaning the bench has unseen angles at its disposal.

“It’s very easy for us to get the call right when we’re able to stare at the iPad right after, and these guys don’t have the luxury to do that,” Golden said. “It makes it a little bit of a ‘gotcha’ game, and I think it’s a little unfair for the refs that way.” Several conferences told The Associated Press they do not track challenges. But in 243 men’s basketball games at home arenas in the Southeastern Conference this season, there were 128 total challenges; 85 were reversed and 43 calls stood, a 2-to-1 ratio.

“It’s a little more accurate in how it’s o ciated,” Stacy said. “If you can switch to one or two calls a game to get them right, relative to ones that would be wrong in prior years, it rings truer to what the outcome should be.”

obituaries

Carl Holstein

May 26, 1961 –March 20, 2026

Carl B. Holstein, of Pinehurst, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at the age of 64, after a courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Carl was born on May 26, 1961, in Parma, Ohio, to Ralph and Carline Holstein. He carried his Ohio roots with him throughout his life, especially in his unwavering love for The Ohio State Buckeyes.

Carl was a man who truly embraced life. He had a deep passion for the outdoors, enjoyed collecting rearms, and found great joy in the game of golf. His greatest professional pride came from his lifelong work in building and shaping golf courses—leaving behind a legacy etched into the landscapes he helped create.

Above all, Carl cherished time spent with his family. He was not a man of many words, but he had a way of making everyone feel deeply loved. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother and friend whose presence brought warmth and strength to those around him. Carl had a smile that could light up any room and a spirit that made others feel welcome and valued.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Holstein, and his parents, Ralph and Caroline Holstein. Carl is survived by his loving children, Brian (Taylor) Holstein of Pinehurst, North Carolina, and Jennifer (Jason) Cameron of Pinehurst, North Carolina; his cherished grandchildren, Margaret “Maggie,” Tyler, Jessica, Clayton and Nick; his brother, Ralph (Valerie) Holstein of Hinckley, Ohio; his sisters, Joan (Dan) Hilson of Columbus, Ohio, and Julie (Steve) McCumber of West Salem, Ohio; along with many nieces and nephews, extended family members and dear friends. Carl will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his quiet strength, his passions and the love he shared so freely with those around him.

Archibald Hastie Dick Jr.

Oct. 26, 1937 –March 20, 2026

Archibald Hastie Dick Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026.

Archie was born in Richmond, Virginia, to the late Archibald Hastie Dick, Jr., and Virginia Overstreet Dick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret “Peggy” Meads. A born entrepreneur, Archie owned a successful business in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for more than forty years. He was also a proud veteran of the United States Army.

Archie embodied the spirit of The Old Man and the Sea. His perfect day was spent deep-sea shing, followed by an evening with friends. He was also an avid gun collector, enjoyed listening to music, and had a great love for auto racing. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, strong work ethic and deep appreciation for the pursuits he loved.

Archie is survived by his son, Archie Dick IV and his wife, Patricia of Weston, Florida and his beloved grandson, Alexander Dick.

A service of remembrance will be held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Boles Funeral Home in Southern Pines.

In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Orphans without Borders, orphanswithoutborders. org.au.

Harvey “Frank” Hardy

Feb. 14, 1974 –March 21, 2026

Harvey “Frank” Hardy, age 52, of Cameron, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Chris McNeill o ciating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Frank was born in Moore County to Elaine Medlin Hardy and the late Carlton Lee Hardy.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Randy Carlton Hardy, Paul Hardy.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his daughters, Ashlyn Hardy of Cameron, Dixie Hardy of Virginia, son, Ace Hardy also of Virginia; brothers, Reuben Hardy of Cameron, Ken Hardy (Kim) of Carthage, Ray Hardy of Cameron; sister-in-law, Melissa Hardy of Carthage and many nieces and nephews.

Frank loved being outdoors and was an incredibly talented carpenter all his life. If you envisioned a project, he could make it come together so easily. He will be remembered as such an outgoing person who never met a stranger, always had jokes and would help others anyway he could, and a friend to so many.

Frank enjoyed shing, woodworking, landscaping and arrowhead hunting. Most importantly, he deeply loved his children and family, of whom he was incredibly proud.

Being one of six boys, it was often said that if you saw one, you would likely see another.

All who knew Frank knew what a kind and special person he was. He was deeply loved and will be missed by so many. May he rest in peace.

Brian Peters

Jan. 29, 1965 –March 24, 2026

Brian Peters, 61, of Laurinburg, departed this life on March 24, 2026. A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at The Kenneth M. Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in the Hillside Memorial Park. A viewing and visitation will be held from 1-5 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Purcell Funeral Home.

Martha Lunday

Dec. 30, 1940 –March 21, 2026

Martha Lunday passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026. Martha was born on December 30, 1940, in Moore County to John and Mary (Poe) McKinnon. She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings (William, Pansy, Linda, Debra). Martha devoted many years to working with children in daycare and enjoyed working at First Bank in her later years. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Dayton Lunday, children Woody (Sam-D) Lunday, Steve (Bonnie) Lunday, Melonie (Brad) Pusser. Martha is also survived by her ve grandchildren, Cody, Cameron, Dylan, Meagan and Thomas (Bailee). She is survived by many nieces and nephews. Martha was happiest when hosting people, spending time in the yard, and “porch sitting”. A Funeral Service will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at Boles Funeral Home Chapel in Southern Pines. The family will receive friends from 2-3 p.m. before the service. Burial will follow at Bethesda Cemetery. Please dress casually in lively colors to celebrate Martha.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or stjude.org.

STATE & NATION

North Carolinian, three others make up rst planned mission to moon in half-century

The diverse crew includes a widower, a black astronaut and a Canadian

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The four astronauts making NASA’s next lunar leap bear little resemblance to the Apollo era.

The Americans who blazed the trail to the moon more than half a century ago were white men chosen for their military test pilot experience. This rst Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color and a Canadian, products of a more diversied astronaut corps.

None of them were alive during NASA’s storied Apollo program that sent 24 astronauts, including 12 moonwalkers, to the moon. They won’t land on the moon this time or even orbit it, but the out-and-back journey will take them thousands of miles deeper into space than even the Apollo astronauts ventured, promising unprecedented views of the lunar far side.

Here’s a look at the Artemis astronauts whose mission aims to pave the path for future moon landings.

Leading the nearly 10-day mission is a widower who considers solo parenting — not rocketing to the moon — his biggest and most rewarding challenge.

Reid Wiseman, 50, a retired Navy captain from Baltimore,

was serving as NASA’s chief astronaut when asked three years ago to lead humanity’s rst lunar trip since 1972. His wife Carroll’s death from cancer in 2020 gave him pause.

He’d spent more than ve months at the International Space Station in 2014, and his two teenage daughters, especially the older one, had “zero interest” in him launching again.

“We talked about it and I said, ‘Look, of all the people on planet Earth right now, there are four people that are in a position to go y around the moon,” he said. “I cannot say no to that opportunity.”

The next day, homemade

moon cupcakes awaited him, along with his daughters’ support. The toughest part isn’t leaving them — “it’s the stress that I’m putting on them,” he said.

Open with his daughters about everything, he recently told them where he keeps his will. As one of NASA’s few black astronauts, Victor Glover sees his presence on the mission as “a force for good.”

The 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, makes it a habit to listen to Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon” and Marvin Gaye’s “Make Me Wan-

na Holler” from the white-dominated Apollo era.

“I listen to those for perspective,” he said. “It captures what we did well, what we did poorly.”

The ability for him now to offer hope to others is “an amazing blessing and a privilege.” Despite having one space ight behind him — an early SpaceX crew run to the International Space Station — he nds himself in new personal territory. His four daughters are in their late teens and early 20s, “and I spend as an much time and thought preparing them as NASA does preparing me.”

He’s hyper-focused on running “our best race so that we can hand the baton o to the next leg” — a 2027 practice docking mission in orbit around Earth between an Orion crew capsule and one or two lunar landers. The all-important moon landing would follow in 2028 with yet another set of astronauts.

The last time Christina Koch blasted into space, she was gone almost a year, so she’s not sweating a quick trip to the moon and back.

The 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 days. She took part in the rst all-female spacewalk during her lengthy stay at the space station in 2019.

More than any one individual, “it’s about celebrating the fact that we’ve arrived to this place in history” where women can y to the moon, she said.

Before she got called up by

Apollo’s impatient old-timers rooting for NASA’s return to moon with Artemis II launch

Dwindling numbers are thrilled by Artemis but tired of decades of waiting

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

— The people who toiled night and day to put astronauts on the moon during Apollo are thrilled that NASA is nally going back. They just wish these Artemis moonshots had happened sooner while more of Apollo’s workforce was still alive.

Now in their 80s and 90s, the dwindling survivors of NASA’s greatest generation would also like to see more enthusiasm for Artemis.

So few of them are left from the original 400,000 that no reunion is planned to celebrate the upcoming Artemis II ight around the moon by four astronauts as soon as April 1. Those living near Florida’s Kennedy Space Center will watch the launch from their backyards.

“Because it was the rst time, there was an energy. There was a passion that probably is not exactly the same today and hasn’t been for a while,” said Charlie Mars, 90, who worked on Apollo’s command and lunar modules and helped establish the American Space Museum in nearby Titusville.

Retired engineer JoAnn Morgan is still fuming that the last three Apollo moon landings were canceled under President Richard Nixon’s watch because of budget cuts, risk concerns and shifting priorities. She was the lone woman inside launch control when Apollo 11’s Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins rocketed to the moon in 1969. Three years later, Apollo 17 closed out the grand era.

“I’m just trying to stay alive so I can see us actually get back and step foot on the moon,” she said. “I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

Morgan isn’t the only one frustrated with NASA’s —

“I’m 85 and still feeling cheated after 53 years.”

JoAnn

Morgan, retired engineer

and the nation’s — dawdling.

“It’s a good thing I’m not in charge,” Mars said, “because I would be out there beating the bushes and whipping up on people to get moving.”

One big di erence this time are all the women in key roles.

NASA’s Artemis launch director is Charlie Blackwell-Thompson. The Artemis II crew includes Christina Koch, who holds the record for the longest single space ight by a woman — 328 consecutive days in orbit.

“It will be even greater when they actually have a woman who plants her boots on the moon,” Morgan said.

Apollo 16’s Charlie Duke points out that half the world’s population was not yet born

when he walked on the moon in 1972.

NASA’s new administrator Jared Isaacman, a tech billionaire who paid his own way to space twice, is one of them.

Apollo’s old-timers are heartened that the 43-year-old Isaacman is accelerating the pace of Artemis launches to more closely match Apollo’s speed and safety record. Artemis has been trudging along at a once-every-three-years ight rate, which Isaacman deems unacceptable.

He’s added a test ight in orbit around Earth to practice docking with lunar landers before they’re used to put astronauts on the moon. And last week, he released a blueprint for a moon base that, along with a battalion of lunar drones and rovers, is expected to cost $20 billion over the next seven years.

NASA’s self-described “moon base guy,” Carlos Garcia-Galan, promises “cool cameras” on everything to ramp up excitement. In the near term, the overrid-

NASA, Koch spent a year at a South Pole research station. Between that and her space stint, she feels she’s “inoculated” most of her family and friends.

“So far, I haven’t gotten too many nerves from folks. Maybe my dog, but I’ve reassured her that it’s only 10 days. It’s not going to be as long as last time.”

Her and her husband’s rescue pooch is named Sadie Lou.

The Canadian ghter pilot and physicist is making his space debut, stressful enough, but also serving as his country’s rst emissary to the moon.

“Maybe I’m naive, but I don’t feel a lot of personal pressure.”

Jeremy Hansen, 50, grew up on a farm near London, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll and pursuing a ying career. The Canadian Space Agency selected him as an astronaut in 2009, and he was named to the Artemis crew in 2023.

He realizes only now how much e ort it took to send men to the moon during Apollo.

“When I walk out and I look at the moon now, it looks and feels a little bit farther than it used to be,” he said. “I just understand in the details how much harder it is than I thought it was watching videos of it.”

Dangers still loom — something he’s shared with his college-aged son and twin daughters. “The most likely outcome is that we will come back safe. There’s a chance we won’t, and you will be able to move through life even if that happens,” he assured them.

ing goal is to beat the Chinese to the lunar surface. NASA aims to land astronauts in 2028, China by 2030.

The U.S. trounced the Soviet space program in the rst race to the moon, landing 12 astronauts from 1969 through 1972. John Tribe, 90, who managed spacecraft propulsion for Apollo, considers NASA’s revised Artemis plan “a whole lot more sensible.”

“The other approach was ridiculous,” Tribe said. “Whether we’re going to beat the Chinese back, I don’t know.”

Apollo 9’s Rusty Schweickart also likes the refashioned Artemis. As for topping Apollo’s excitement, though, good luck.

“We can all recall Columbus,” Schweickart said in an email, but who can remember “who came along 50 years afterward?”

One of only four moonwalkers still alive, Duke anticipates the thrill of Apollo will return once Artemis astronauts start landing, especially for the younger crowd that missed out before.

“If the rst ones are successful and we start landing at the south pole,” Duke said, “I think millions are going to be watching that. I know I will if I’m still here.”