Stanly News Journal Vol. 145 Issue 64

Stanly NewS Journal

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Texas House approves redrawn maps ahead of 2026 elections

Texas’ House of Representatives is approving a new map that creates up to ve new, winnable congressional seats for the GOP. The map passed Wednesday after a push by President Donald Trump for Republican-controlled states to redraw their legislative maps to give his party a better chance of holding onto control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the midterm elections. The maps must be approved by Texas’ Republican-controlled Senate and Gov. Greg Abbott before they become o cial. The new maps are likely to trigger revised maps in California to create new Democratic-leaning seats, though they would need to be approved by voters.

U.S. home sales rose in July, mortgage rates dip, home prices grew slowly

Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes rose in July as homebuyers were encouraged by a modest pullback in mortgage rates, slowing home price growth and more properties on the market.

Existing home sales rose 2% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.01 million units, the National Association of Realtors said Thursday. Sales edged up 0.8% compared with July last year. The latest sales gure topped the 3.92 million pace economists were expecting, according to FactSet. The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage held steady this week at its lowest level in nearly 10 months, an encouraging sign for prospective homebuyers. The long-term rate was unchanged from last week at 6.58%.

Tari s not keeping Walmart from attracting shoppers, outpacing Target

Walmart is showing it can keep pulling in shoppers and outpacing rivals like Target in an uncertain economic environment and tari concerns to deliver solid second-quarter nancial results Thursday, showing it keeps pulling in shoppers and outpacing peers like Target. The nation’s largest retailer delivered solid second-quarter nancial results on Thursday. It reported a 4.6% quarterly increase in comparable sales. Company executives say Walmart is attracting customers with fast deliveries, grocery discounts and trendier clothes.

Albemarle honors outgoing city manager in presentation

from the city council

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Former City Manager Todd Clark received a farewell tribute from the Albemarle City Council on Monday night as a resolution was adopted to honor his retirement from public service.

The city announced in May that Clark would retire in August after one year in Albemarle and a total of 35 years in local government. His nal day came Friday, when he turned the role over to new City Manager Darren Rhodes, the city’s former assistant manager.

During Monday’s council meeting, certi cate of appreciation plaques were given to Clark and his wife, Jane, to honor them on behalf of the city.

Badin splits over Alcoa site permit

Environmental concerns clash with job hopes as DEQ weighs hazmat permit

By Charles Curcio Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — A public hearing Tuesday at Stanly Commons drew Badin citizens, Alcoa representatives and environmental advocates to discuss the Badin Business Park’s application for a permit to handle hazardous materials — a decision that could bring jobs to the area while raising environmental concerns about Badin Lake.

The Badin Business Park,

“I want to say thank you to each and every member of city council for your trust and faith in me,” Clark said. “I have been honored and privileged to be able to serve you during the last

on the site of the former Alcoa plant, applied July 2 for a new National Pollution Elimination Discharge System permit.

Derek Denard, an environmental program consultant with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, presented the draft permit, with a nal decision expected within 90 days. Public comment was accepted at the meeting and will continue through Wednesday via mail and email.

The ve-year permit includes increased monitoring requirements: cyanide and uoride testing increases from monthly to twice monthly, with quarterly testing for suspended solids, aluminum and other chemicals at additional outfalls. The uoride treatment system now requires a certi ed operator.

year. This city is poised to do wonderful things. You have a tremendous sta , and they are ready to move the needle forward for Albemarle. I’m so excited for what Darren Rhodes is going to do to lead this city in the future.” Clark expressed gratitude to his family and the City of Albemarle sta for their support, emphasizing the importance of service in the community.

North

Louisa Jane Hartsell named new ADDC events coordinator

The Main Street resident and owner of Hartsell Funeral Homes has a strong committment to the community

By Charles Curcio Stanly News Journal

ONE LOCAL business owner brings her talents, passion and energy to a position which looks to develop the tourism and actitivities in downtown Albemarle.

Louisa Jane Hartsell, owner of Hartsell Funeral Homes, has accepted a new position with the Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation (ADDC) as its new administrative and events coordinator.

Hartsell was born and raised on Main Street in Albemarle and has worked with many charities and community groups. She is a member of the Rotary Club and founded the club’s annual Remember 5K for Alzheimer’s Race. Hartsell also serves on the boards of the Stanly Chamber of Commerce and the Cabarrus Arts Council, and the committees for the Albemarle Walk of Fame and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. She serves also as the administrative manager for Proximity 2 Humanity, which is a nonpro t group whose stated purpose is to help communities thrive to preserve green spaces and small towns.

Louisa Jane Hartsell

Hartsell also is an advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness, having been recently honored by the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers minor league baseball team as a hometown hero.

Her responsibilities will include tasks related to marketing of downtown events and the farmer’s market.

“I’m so excited about (the new position),” Hartsell said, noting she had volunteered for many events in Albemarle.

“We’ve done a lot of great things, and I think I can really help to push it ever further, a positive direction where people will want to be downtown.”

She added that she accepted the role because she said she believes in the heart of the community.

“Downtown is more than a place,” Hartsell said. “It’s

“Downtown is more than a place. It’s where stories are shared, relationships are built, and memories are made. I want to help create opportunities that bring people together and celebrate all the things that make Albemarle special.”

Louisa Jane Hartsell

where stories are shared, relationships are built, and memories are made. I want to help create opportunities that bring people together and celebrate all the things that make Albemarle special.”

As to the future of events in Albemarle, Hartsell said she sees it as “a place where businesses and community come together through meaningful activities. From festivals that draw new visitors to monthly gatherings that support our shops and restaurants, every effort is about creating opportunities for growth and connection.”

“My hope is that the downtown continues to be a vibrant hub, where small businesses thrive, families make memories and the entire community feels proud to father,” she said.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@stanlynewsjournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

Albemarle

Mayor Ronnie Michael, right, presents certi cate of appreciation plaques to former City Manager Todd Clark and his wife, Jane, at Monday’s city council meeting.

HONORS from page A1

The mayor and councilmembers each shared words of appreciation for Clark.

“You came in and helped us get through a very di cult budget this year, among many other things,” said Mayor Ronnie Michael. “We have a lot of things going on in this city, and you’ve been on top of those the entire time.”

“It weighs deeply on my heart to see you leave, but at the same time, knowing full well that family is the most important thing we have, we should never make that secondary,” Councilmember Benton Dry added. “Your professionalism has been a hallmark to me, and I appreciate the opportunity to sit down with you on our Fridays.”

During Clark’s local tenure

following his previous time in Catawba, Maiden, Newton and Beaufort, Albemarle completed infrastructure for the Albemarle Business Center, began work on the Envision Albemarle 2045 comprehensive landuse plan, and adopted a new parks and recreation master plan.

He also oversaw continued implementation of the city’s award-winning strategic plan.

“Mr. Clark, we want to commend you for not just your time here in Albemarle but for your 35 years of service to the general public at various locations,” Councilmember Dexter Townsend said. “You weren’t with us for a long time, but I can say the time spent here was valuable time. We appreciate everything that you have done over the past year.”

Aug.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

LETTERS

Why would we want bad people here?

Multiculturalism, as a philosophy, can only survive if e ectuated by a state that subsidizes fragmentation.

THIS WEEK , news emerged that the Trump administration has been setting new standards with regard to incoming immigrants. According to Axios, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will not take into account the “positive attributes” of migrants entering the country; such attributes can include community involvement and educational level. Instead of simply seeking to rule out those with records of misconduct, the new system seeks to screen for better immigrants — immigrants who will enrich America.

Along the same lines, the CIS will now disqualify applicants who engage in or support “anti-American activity.” As USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser explained, “America’s bene ts should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies. ... Immigration bene ts — including to live and work in the United States — remain a privilege, not a right.” Metrics for antiAmericanism include “circumstances where an alien has endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused the views of a terrorist organization or group, including aliens who support or promote anti-American ideologies or activities, antisemitic terrorism and antisemitic terrorist organizations, or who promote antisemitic ideologies.”

Shockingly, there are those who are concerned about such standards. Presumably, America can’t be truly free unless we allow in those who support terrorist groups; one day, if we’re lucky, they can even run for mayor of New York or congresswoman of Michigan. Such are the supposed blessings of liberty bestowed on foreigners by the free speech clause of our Constitution.

Professor of sociology Jane Lilly Lopez of Brigham Young University told The Associated Press, “For me, the really big story is they are opening the door for stereotypes and prejudice and implicit bias to take the wheel in these decisions. That’s really worrisome.” This, of course, ignores that there are evidentiary standards for any allegations of antiAmericanism; skin color or country of origin wouldn’t presumably be enough to bar someone on grounds of anti-

Americanism. But for the left, the only excuse for a pro-American ideology must be some form of subtle racism.

Meanwhile, Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, objected that the new standards were reminiscent of McCarthyism. This ignores the fact that during the Cold War, America did in fact screen for membership in the Communist Party under the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act, and that refugees and immigrants were screened by American law enforcement agencies to ensure that they were not agents of a foreign power or sympathetic to America’s enemies. Undergirding all of these objections is a simple and ugly proposition: that becoming an American requires no actual investment in America, and that America ought to be a gigantic agglomeration of disassociated populations. Such a proposition would have been de facto impossible before the rise of the welfare state; people immigrating to the United States generally left places with greater security for an America without security but with grand opportunity, which meant that new immigrants had to learn English, learn a trade, and embrace the AngloAmerican cultural and legal traditions of the country in order to succeed. With the rise of an enormous and durable social safety net, the math suddenly changed: People could immigrate to the United States without assimilating in any serious way and could maintain their pre-American cultures in toto. Multiculturalism, as a philosophy, can only survive if e ectuated by a state that subsidizes fragmentation. That process must now be reversed. And that can only be done by raising the bar to admission. Good immigrants make America stronger. Bad immigrants make it weaker. Treating all immigrants similarly isn’t just foolish; it’s dangerous. And the Trump administration is right for recognizing that root reality.

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

A family of ve claiming to be from Guatemala and a man stating he was from Peru, in the pink shirt, walk through the desert after crossing the border wall near Lukeville, Arizona, in August 2023.

Only American citizens should vote in American elections

OUR ELECTIONS should be secure and not in uenced by foreign entities. The integrity of every American’s vote should be protected by the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act which mandates proof of citizenship at the time of voter registration The SAVE Act eliminates the de ciency that currently allows noncitizens to register and possibly vote in our elections. Numerous surveys over the last four years demonstrate that most Americans-across spectrums of age, ethnicity, race, gender and political orientation-believe that noncitizens should not participate in American elections and that documented proof of citizenship should be a mandatory requirement of the voter registration process.

Protecting the right of American citizens to determine the future of our country is not a partisan issue; it is a fundamental duty of Congress. It’s time for Senators Ted Budd and Thom Tillis to publicly declare strong advocacy for the SAVE Act and to work aggressively for its passage in the U.S. Senate.

Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our constitutional republic. And, only American citizens should vote in those elections.

Agnes Puzak, Pinehurst

Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@ nsjonline.com or 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@ nsjonline.com.

Contact a writer or columnist: connect@ northstatejournal.com

IN MEMORY

JOSEPH “JOEY” ASHLEY DIKENS III

JUNE 4, 1958 – AUG. 16, 2025

Barbara Jean (Taylor) Drye

April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023

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

Barbara was born April 17, 1936 in North Carolina to the late Robert Lee Taylor and the late Eva Belle Watts Taylor. She was also preceded in death by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor.

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

Dwight Farmer

January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023

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

Dwight was born January 24, 1939 in Stanly County to the late Walter Virgil and Martha Adkins Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate of Norwood High School and was a United States Army Veteran.

He was a member of Cedar Grove United Methodist Church where he had served as church treasurer and choir member. He began his career with the Stanly County Sheri ’s Department moving to the Norwood Police Department and retiring as Chief of Police with the Town of Norwood after many years of service.

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

Joseph (Joey) Ashley Dickens, III, 67, of Locust, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at Atrium Health Cabarrus. Born on June 4, 1958, in Florence County, Joey was the son of the late Joseph Ashley Dickens, Jr. and Elizabeth Hux Dickens. A devoted father, beloved grandfather, and loyal brother, Joey lived a life marked by kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support for those he loved. He is lovingly survived by his children, Joseph Ashley Dickens, IV (Jillian) and Chelsea Dickens Parks (Justin); grandchildren, Brantley, Cora, and Josiah; and siblings, Sara Jane McKissick (Larry) and Rebecca “Becky” Dickens Cox. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Forest Dickens. Besides being a wonderful father, Joey was known for his open heart, nonjudgmental spirit, and deep devotion to his family. He had a unique gift for uplifting others, always encouraging those around him to pursue their goals and believe in themselves. He was the rst to lend a helping hand, often putting the needs of others before his own, and he lived his life with a generosity that left an imprint on everyone he met. His favorite pastime was enjoying his land he loved so dearly, tending to his fruit trees, grapevines, and garden whenever he was able. He also cherished summers at the beach surrounded by his entire family, where lasting memories were always made. His greatest joys, however, were found in the time spent with his grandchildren, whose lives he enriched with love, laughter, and stories they will carry forever. Family-oriented to his core, Joey created a legacy of compassion, sel essness, and quiet strength that will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. The family will receive friends from 3-5 p.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care in Locust. A short service will immediately follow. In lieu of owers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Locust is honored to serve the Dickens family.

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

MARK JEAN PAUL THEBERGE

JULY 1, 1970 – AUG. 18, 2025

He is survived by his wife Hilda Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Lowe (David) of Norwood; one sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Lowe.

He was preceded in death by his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty. Memorials may be made to Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs Road, Norwood, NC 28128.

Mark Jean Paul Theberge, 55, of Albemarle, passed away at his home on Monday, August 18, 2025. A service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date. Born on July 1, 1970, in Spring eld, Massachusetts, Mark was the son of Irene Mary Ouellette and the late Joseph Claude Theberge. From an early age, he carried a spirit of adventure and a love for anything with wheels. He had a special passion for working on motorcycles and racing them, always nding joy in the thrill of the ride. Mark also loved training his dogs, pouring his time, patience, and a ection into them, and they were a constant source of happiness in his life. Mark’s family remembers him as a man full of energy, rarely still, and always on the move from sunup to sundown. To him, there was no such thing as idle time—every day was an opportunity to do something meaningful. He had a generous heart and was never too busy to stop and help someone in need. His kindness, willingness to serve others, and genuine care for people made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife of eight years, Alexis Ritchie Eudy, who was the love of his life; his stepchildren, Peyton Eudy and Piper Eudy, whom he loved dearly; his brother, Wayne Theberge of Wisconsin; and his sister, Lisa Wilson of Massachusetts. He also leaves behind two nieces, Shanelle Gonzalez and Amber Theberge, and four nephews, Brandon Bedard, Cameron Wilson, Crimson Wilson, and Joey Theberge. To his family, Mark will always be remembered as loving and compassionate, with a heart bigger than life itself. He lived every moment with passion and purpose, and his memory will forever live on in the laughter, love, and stories he leaves behind.

James Roseboro

June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023

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

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

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

He is survived by his sisters: Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards of Albemarle, Mary Roseboro of Washington DC, and Marion Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of Norwood, and Van Horne; a special friend of over 40 years, Michelle McLendon of the home; special nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knya Little, and Laquanza Crump; special nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and God daughter, Daphne Johnson; and special friends, Vetrella Johnson and Ben McLendon.

He graduated from Millingport High in 1954 and entered into service with the US Airforce immediately afterward. Upon return from the service, he and his high school sweetheart Julie were married in 1956. He graduated from Nashville Auto Diesel College later in 1959 and began his career as a diesel mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Company, moving his growing family to Charlotte where they lived until their retirement.

Doris Jones Coleman

October 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023

Humpy Wheeler addresses fans at the track prior to the 2008 NASCAR Cup Series’ Coca-Cola 600 auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Wheeler, who retired after the race, died Wednesday.

Humpy Wheeler, former Charlotte Motor Speedway president, dead at 86

By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE — Humpy

Wheeler, a pioneering motorsports promoter and former president and general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, has died, NASCAR said. He was 86.

Charlotte Motor Speedway said Wheeler died of natural causes Wednesday in Charlotte, surrounded by his family.

Darrick Baldwin

January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023

“Humpy Wheeler was a visionary whose name became synonymous with promotion and innovation in our sport,” said NASCAR chairman Jim France. “During his decades leading Charlotte Motor Speedway, Humpy transformed the fan experience through his creativity, bold ideas and tireless passion. His e orts helped expand NASCAR’s national footprint, cement Charlotte as a must-visit racing and entertainment complex.”

Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.

Howard Augustine Wheeler Jr. was born in 1938 in Belmont in Gaston County and gained his rst major publicity job with Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. He held several other positions after Firestone shut down its racing program in 1970 and was hired at Charlotte Motor Speedway by owner Bruton Smith as president in 1975.

When John purchased his rst Model A Ford at the age of 17, he said that he took the car to the community mechanic when he had a small problem.The mechanic told him that if he was going to keep the car, he needed to learn to work on it. This is when John’s passion for Model A Fords began and how he spent his happiest days with his best friends from around the globe for the rest of his life!

Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, went home into God’s presence on January 10 after a sudden illness and a valiant week-long ght in ICU. Doris was born on October 11, 1944, in the mountains of Marion, NC while her father was away ghting in the US Navy during World War II. Raymond Jones was so proud to return after the war and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in Durham, NC and graduated from Durham High School. She furthered her studies at Watts Hospital School of Nursing in Durham and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1966.

Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters Amy and Laura. Doris raised Amy and Laura in North Augusta, SC.

“Humpy’s contributions to and accomplishments in NASCAR are without parallel. The breadth and depth of his legacy, and those whom he in uenced, assisted and mentored, cannot be overstated.”

Winston Kelley, executive director, NASCAR Hall of Fame

At age 50, after years as a Detroit Diesel Mechanic he and Julie decided to take the plunge and open a full Model A Restoration Shop. They thrived at their shop in Cornelius, NC until their retirement in 1998 when they moved back to Cabarrus County. John once again set up shop in his back yard garage where he attracted a loyal group of friends who visited almost daily. While on the farm in Gold Hill, John also began a lifelong love with Alis Chalmers tractors after he restored his Dad’s tractor and began amassing his collection of tractors as well.

and those whom he in uenced, assisted and mentored, cannot be overstated,” said Winston Kelley, executive director of the Hall of Fame. “Frequently adding new dynamics to the sport, Humpy’s visionary leadership and creativity helped shape today’s fan experience.

“Through his innovative promotions and stunts, Wheeler’s contributions expanded NASCAR’s national and international presence during the 1990s and early 2000s, solidifying Charlotte as ‘NASCAR’s Home for Racing.’”

John restored many cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Awardthe highest award given to members at the national level.

Wheeler mentored “hundreds, if not thousands,” of people throughout his life, Kelley said, including inaugural NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt and Landmark Award recipient Janet Guthrie.

This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men.

Doris was an incredible neonatal intensive care nurse for most of her career, and this was her passion. The Augusta Chronicle did a feature on her in 1985. She was a clinical nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia at University Hospital NICU and worked there for 20 years. During this time, Doris mentored young nurses and assisted in saving the lives of so many babies. She also worked for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 years of nursing.

er in Humpy Wheeler who can only be described as ONE of a kind,” the speedway said in a statement. “For more than 30 years, Humpy was a promoter’s promoter at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Alongside our founder Bruton Smith, Humpy pushed the speedway to new and greater heights — establishing the famed 1.5-mile superspeedway as not only the most innovative facility in NASCAR for fan, partner and competitor amenities, but also one of the most progressive in all of sports.

Doris was a gentle and sweet spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left you feeling uplifted after talking with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was sel ess, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle. She especially loved helping at church with older adults, youth, and children.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@ northstatejournal.com

He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.

He became a transformative gure in promoting racing and was known as the “P.T. Barnum of motorsports” for ashy prerace stunts, elaborate productions and sparing no expense in ensuring fans had the most enjoyable experience possible at his events.

He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.

Wheeler earlier this year was named winner of NASCAR’s prestigious Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR, to which he’d have been inducted into the Hall of Fame next year.

He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree. We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

“Humpy’s contributions to and accomplishments in NASCAR are without parallel. The breadth and depth of his legacy,

Wheeler spent 33 years running Charlotte Motor Speedway. His innovation and prerace extravaganzas recreated numerous military operations — including the invasion of Grenada — that made the facility a gold standard in NASCAR. He promoted schoolbus races during the week, grassroots series for young aspiring racers, stunts and even the “Robosaurus,” a towering, re-breathing, car-crunching mechanical robot.

John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) of Rich eld, NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) of Asheville, NC and Seth William McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; ve great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Meredith, Grant, Victoria and Ronan. John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.

Wheeler and his boss, the late Smith, grew Charlotte Motor Speedway into the ownership group Speedway Motorsports Inc., which acquired multiple race tracks that play a pivotal role in American motorsports today. Charlotte was the rst track to build condominiums on site, built a restaurant overlooking the race track and was the rst speedway of its size to install lights for night racing.

“Charlotte Motor Speedway was blessed to have a lead-

“Humpy’s engaging smile and air for promotion were legendary, and his impact on every stakeholder in motorsports will be long-lasting. Humpy not only made his mark with publicity, but also with a laser-focus toward the fans. He would often tell his sta to pay attention to ‘the three Ts — tickets, tra c and toilets,’ in order to ensure fans have the best possible experience. He would also say it was our job to put a little ‘technicolor in people’s black-and-white lives.’”

She was especially talented at sewing from a young age and made gifts for friends, Christmas ornaments, Halloween Costumes, doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, out ts for Amy and Laura, and Christening gowns for each of her grandchildren.

Doris was preceded in death by her father Arthur Raymond Jones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Jones, and her sister Maryanne Jones Brantley.

Wheeler retired from Charlotte Motor Speedway and Speedway Motorsports in 2008 after a bitter falling out with Smith but remained active in motorsports through his own consulting company and was on the voting panel for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife, Pat; daughters, Traci and Patti; son, Trip; and four grandchildren.

Survivors include her two precious daughters: Amy Cameron Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.

Funeral arrangements are pending and the family request donations be made in Wheeler’s name to the Belmont Abbey College Motorsports Management Program, which Wheeler was instrumental in launching more than 20 years ago.

Local o cials support permit

Two Badin town councilmembers urged approval. Dale Ward, who worked for Alcoa for nearly 30 years, said the company “has been a good steward of Badin” and emphasized the need for jobs.

“Let’s move forward with what we’ve got. Let’s get some jobs in here and move forward,” Ward said, adding he wasn’t concerned about contaminant levels. “This little stu , parts per billion, million and stu , that is way beyond me. I’m not concerned about it. I live there.”

Councilmember Gary Rife praised Alcoa’s decades of economic contributions and community support, saying the company has “never shied away, nor will they ever shy away, from their responsibility to operate below or within the DEQ requirements.”

Environmental groups seek stricter conditions

Critics argued the permit needs more restrictions. Colleen McDaniel, a Yadkin Riverkeepers board member, said the river is “the largest economic driver in the area.”

“People want to come and enjoy the lake, yet Alcoa’s facility and all of the outfalls end up coming right into where the most popular boat launch is, the public access areas and the swimming areas,” McDaniel said. She noted Outfall 13 lacks required public notice signage.

Jasmine Washington, a sta attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center working with the Concerned Citizens of West Badin, cited DEQ obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and North Carolina Executive Order 292.

“EPA promulgated Title VI regulations that prohibit recipients of federal nancial assistance from taking any action or activities that have the effect of subjecting individuals to discrimination based on race, color, national origin or sex,” Washington said.

Washington noted physical barriers preventing West Badin citizens from accessing public resources on the town’s east side and called for more transparency about Alcoa’s close to 40 violations under the 2019 permit.

“This is the cause of a lot of the community’s distrust of both DEQ and Alcoa,” she said. Alcoa defends environmental record

Alcoa representatives said they’ve met all standards. Robyn Gross, global transformation director responsible for the Badin Business Park, said exhaustive testing has demonstrated compliance. The company has removed asbestos and contaminated soils, installed liner caps and repaired stormwater drains.

“Allowing inaccurate information to be spread widely unnecessarily instills fear in the public and the regulated industrial community,” Gross said.

Matthew Kraeuter, director of transformation at the park, acknowledged that recent demolition work initially washed construction dust into storm drains but said the site immediately implemented solutions. Initial uoride levels of 3 parts per million were below federal drinking water standards of 4 ppm, though above the state standard of 1.8 ppm.

Chris Whitley will step down at the end of August

Stanly News Journal sta

ALBEMARLE — The Albemarle City Council is accepting letters of interest from residents who want to ll a soon-to-be-va-

cant District 4 seat on the council.

Council member Chris Whitley, who currently represents District 4, announced he will step down at the end of August to help care for a family member experiencing health issues.

District 4 residents interested in the position should mail a letter expressing their interest, address and quali cations to serve.

Letters should be labeled “personal and con dential” and addressed to Mayor Ronnie Michael, PO Box 190, Albemarle, NC 28002. Letters must be delivered no later than Friday, Sept. 12. The City Council will review applicants and determine next steps during its regular meeting Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

To be eligible to serve as District 4 representative, individuals must be at least 21 years old, a registered voter and a resident of District 4. The person appointed by the council will serve a term that expires Dec. 7, 2026. A map of Albemarle City Council District 4 is also on the city’s website at albemarlenc.gov.

Letters must be delivered no later than

A Metro PD commander was put on leave earlier this year

By Alanna Durkin Richer and Michael Kunzelman The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

The Justice Department has opened an investigation into whether police o cials in Washington, D.C., have falsied data to make crime rates appear lower than they are, according to two people familiar with the probe who weren’t authorized to publicly discuss an open investigation.

The investigation comes amid an escalating — and political — showdown between the Trump administration and the city over control of the police department. It wasn’t immediately clear what federal laws could have been violated by the possible manipulation of crime data.

President Donald Trump claimed that violent crime in Washington is getting worse as he ordered a federal takeover of the city’s police department, ooding the streets with hundreds of National Guard members. But he exaggerated or misstated many facts about public

safety in Washington, where crime rates have fallen in recent years.

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s ofce declined to comment on the investigation. A spokesperson for U.S. Attorney Jeannine Pirro’s o ce in Washington didn’t respond to emails seeking comment. The New York Times was rst to report on the investigation.

Earlier this year, a Metropolitan Police Department commander suspected of manipulating crime data was placed on paid administrative leave, NBC Washington reported. Bowser told the television station last Tues -

day that the city’s police chief “had concerns about one commander, investigated all seven districts and veri ed that the concern was with one person.”

“So, we are completing that investigation and we don’t believe it implicates many cases,” the mayor added.

Former interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin, who was Pirro’s predecessor and Trump’s rst pick to lead the o ce, said Washington’s violent crime had decreased in the rst 100 days since Trump returned to the White House in January. In an April 28 news release, Martin’s o ce said MPD data showed that violent crime had dropped by 25% since the start of 2025.

“We are proving that strong enforcement and smart policies can make our communities safer,” Martin said in the release.

SCC’s inaugural practical nursing class re ects on program

Ten students became the rst to graduate from the new program

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Stanly Community College recently celebrated the inaugural graduating class from its Practical Nursing (PN) program as 10 students were honored at a pinning ceremony last month.

After three semesters of studying, testing and clinical training, the students became the rst to complete SCC’s new o ering that launched last fall.

Chassity Washburn, former director of nursing at SCC, led the development of the fast-track, three-semester program, which now complements the college’s associate degree nursing (ADN) program.

Ruth Silsby, the college’s PN instructor, said the new course of study is an important addition to the college’s nursing education curriculum because it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN, the exam that licenses them as practical nurses.

Licensed practical nurses (LPN) provide bedside care under supervision in settings such as nursing homes, clinics, long-term care facilities and acute care units.

“SCC o ers students a rather unique opportunity to start as a Certi ed Nursing Assistant (CNA), move forward as an

LPN within a year, and then — after working for six to nine months — apply to the LPNto-RN (Registered Nurse) bridge program,” Silsby said. “This affords students the opportunity to build on knowledge while still being able to work, and to provide for their families while gaining real-world experience.”

Silsby said the COVID-19 pandemic increased the demand for LPNs nationwide.

“It became clear that it was fiscally responsible to have licensed bedside nurses in both acute and long-term care,” she said. “The role of the LPN, which is under the supervision of registered nurses, fills that gap. Where LPNs were once being phased out, the doors of opportunity are wide open.”

As part of the same cohort during their three practical nursing classes, the students have reflected on the friendships and partnerships they formed over the past year.

“It definitely became a sisterhood for us, being that we’re the pilot program,” Jahia Cole said. “It’s something that you form a bond over, and that’s exactly what we did.”

“I have come to think of these people like they’re my family,” added Ericka Hayhurst. “I regularly reach out to them and talk to them, not just about school, but about my own life and what’s going on with them.”

“We have been close all along, but this last semester we’ve really grown close,” she said. “I’m glad to be done, but I’m also going to miss seeing them like every day here, fighting the same battles like clinicals and tests.”

Other students noted that successfully completing the

Kimberly Hopkins said she has cherished the time spent with her fellow classmates.

PN program gave them a boost of self-assurance — both in their career paths and overall lives.

“I feel like I’ve gained a lot more con dence,” Samantha Martin said. “It can be scary when someone’s life is in your hands, but my teacher and my classmates have given me great support. I feel that I’ve come out of this as a stronger person.”

“I feel that I’ve come out of this as a stronger person.”

Samantha Martin

Additional information about the college’s PN program is available at stanly.edu.

DHS says entire southern border wall to be painted black to stop people from climbing it

It should absorb heat and make it more di cult to scale

By Rebecca Santana The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C.

— Homeland Security Secretary

Kristi Noem said Tuesday that the entire wall along the southern border with Mexico is going to be painted black to make it hotter and deter illegal immigration — and she credited President Donald Trump with the idea.

Noem spoke during a visit to a portion of the wall in New Mexico, where she also picked up a roller brush to help out with the painting.

She touted the height of the wall as well as the depth as ways to deter people seeking to go over or under the walls. And then Noem said Homeland Security was going to be trying black paint to make the metal hotter.

“That is speci cally at the request of the president, who understands that in the hot temperatures down here when something is painted black it gets even warmer and it will make it even harder for people to climb. So we are going to be painting the entire southern border wall black to make sure that we encourage individuals to not come into our country illegally,” Noem said.

U.S. Border Patrol Chief

Mike Banks, who attended the event with Noem, said the paint would also help deter rust.

During Trump’s rst term, building the wall was a central focus of his hardline immigration policy. During his second term, his mass deportation agenda with arrests in the interior of the country has been the main focus, but Homeland Security will be getting about $46 billion to complete the wall as part of new funding passed by Congress this summer. Noem said they have been building about a half mile of barrier every day.

“The border wall will look very di erent based on the topography and the geography of where it is built,” she said.

She said that in addition to barriers like the one she visited Tuesday, the department is also working on “water-borne infrastructure.” Long sections of the roughly 2,000-mile border between the U.S. and Mexico sit along the Rio Grande River in Texas.

The Trump administration is pushing forward with completing the wall at the same time that the number of people crossing the border illegally has plummeted.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

We are holding our Annual Birdie Benefit where golf enthusiasts and amateurs alike come together to enjoy a day of friendly competition and camaraderie to benefit Tillery Compassionate Care. REGISTRATION at 11:00 AM • LUNCH at 11:30 AM

CONTACT: Sandy Selvy-Mullis 704-983-4216 Ext. 114 ssmullis@tillerycompassionatecare.org

STANLY SPORTS

Pfei er University introduces 2025 Sports Hall of Fame class

The Falcons will induct four new members this fall

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER — Pfei er University announced Tuesday that four individuals will be inducted into its 2025 Sports Hall of Fame on Sept. 19 in the Stokes Student Center.

The Falcons’ Hall of Fame will soon welcome former student-athletes Jimmy Dotsikas, Todd Herman and Vada Sherrill, along with former coach Chris Pollard.

Founded in 1990, the Pfei er Sports Hall of Fame began with seven inductees. It now includes 123 individuals and nine teams who have each been recognized for their impact on the university’s athletic program.

Dotsikas (’92) made his mark at Pfei er as a two-sport standout, excelling in soccer and lacrosse from 1989 to 1992. He was a four-year starter in

both programs as he served as co-captain of the soccer team in 1991 and captain in 1992.

On the lacrosse eld, Dotsikas was a four-year starting goalkeeper and team cap-

tain. He still ranks rst in career saves (841), second in single-season saves (291) and third in single-game saves (32).

His achievements also earned him Deep South All-Conference honors from 1990 to 1992, and Pfei er’s team MVP in both 1990 and 1991.

Herman (’92) was a four-year goalkeeper for the Falcons’ soccer team, starting all four years and earning two rst-team all-conference selections. He remains Pfei er’s career saves leader with 797 stops.

After college, Herman played professionally in the U.S. Interregional Soccer League. He has since spent more than a decade as a women’s soccer coach, including tenures at Western Carolina University, Campbell University, Davidson, Charlotte and Pfei er.

In 2007, Herman was named NCHSAA 4A Regional Coach of the Year while leading Providence High School in Charlotte. Sherrill (’19) dominated Pfei er softball from 2015 to 2019, setting nearly every major o ensive record in program history. The former shortstop holds records for hits (251), runs (255), RBIs (200), stolen bases

North Stanly senior pitcher commits to The Citadel

Heath Klingensmith will join the Bulldogs next year

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

NEW LONDON — North

Stanly senior Heath Klingensmith has o cially committed to The Citadel. The Comets baseball standout announced Tuesday that he will follow up his nal season in New London by playing at The Citadel, a military college in Charleston, South Carolina.

Set to graduate in 2026, the North Carolina Baseball Coaches Association 2025 2A Player of the Year has established himself as a dominant two-way player, excelling both as a pitcher and in the eld at rst base and third base.

“I am excited to announce my commitment to The Citadel, where I will continue my academic and athletic career,”

“I am excited to announce my commitment to The Citadel, where I will continue my academic and athletic career.”

Heath Klingensmith

Klingensmith said in a statement. “Thank you to my family, friends, coaches, the South Charlotte Panthers and teammates who have helped me achieve this dream. Finally, I would like to thank Coach Triplett and The Citadel coaching sta for giving me this opportunity. Go Bulldogs!” The Citadel Bulldogs baseball team had a notable 2025 season under rst-year coach Russell Triplett, nishing with an overall record of 31-26, a Southern Conference record of

12-9 and a third-place nish in the conference standings. It marked the team’s rst 30-win season since 2013.

“We are beyond proud of you,” the North Stanly Booster Club said of Klingensmith’s collegiate decision. “Your commitment, perseverance and determination are truly commendable, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone with you.”

The Comets pitcher is an active player for the South Charlotte Panthers travel baseball club that has debuted 21 Major League Baseball players and 87 players selected in the MLB Draft.

Last season with the Comets, his rst since transferring from Mount Pleasant, Klingensmith had a 2.49 ERA in 391⁄3 innings pitched, allowing only 14 earned runs and holding hitters to a .182 batting average;

Todd Herman

Pfei er Sports Hall of Fame

Todd Herman is a 1992 graduate of Pfei er and a current assistant coach for Campbell University’s women’s soccer team. Herman was the starting goalkeeper for Pfei er men’s soccer all four years of his college career and is still the school’s career leader in saves. He was one of four members of the Pfei er Sports Hall of Fame 2025 class and will be formally inducted on Sept. 19.

PFEIFFER from page B1

(201) and career batting average (.408). She remains the only NCAA player in any division to surpass 200 in hits, runs, RBIs and stolen bases.

Sherrill’s accolades also include two-time National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-American, Conference Carolinas Freshman of the Year (2016) and USA South Player of the Year (2019). After her playing career, she stayed at Pfei er as an assistant softball coach from 2019 to 2023 before becoming an assistant athletic director for internal operations.

COMMITS from page B1 he batted .390 at the plate with 21 hits and 21 RBIs.

Overall, North Stanly had a historic 2025 season, nishing with a 26-2 overall record and an undefeated 10-0 mark in the

Sept. 19

Date of the hall of fame induction ceremony

Pollard began his head coaching career at Pfei er, quickly turning the baseball program into a winner with a school-record 41 victories and back-to-back Conference Carolinas titles in 2003 and 2004. A Davidson College alum,

Yadkin Valley Conference. This achievement marked the Comets’ fourth consecutive conference title and extended their streak of 20 straight conference wins. The team outscored opponents 230-75, showcasing both

Pollard played professionally before starting a coaching career where he led Appalachian State’s baseball program before coaching Duke University from 2013-25. At Duke, he became the Blue Devils’ all-time winningest coach with a 420-296 record.

Following the 2025 season, he was named head coach at the University of Virginia. He also serves as the Division I chair of the American Baseball Coaches Association Executive Committee.

Tickets to the 2025 Pfei er Sports Hall of Fame Banquet are on sale for $20 at pfei er.edu or by phone at 704-463-3034.

o ensive repower and pitching dominance. In the 2A NCHSAA state playo bracket, the Comets secured decisive wins over Wheatmore and North Surry before falling short in a matchup with local rival West Stanly.

West Stanly volleyball improves to 4-0, opens conference play

CONTRIBUTED

The Colts won both games this week to complete a four-game home stand

By Charles Curcio Stanly News Journal

RED CROSS — The West

Stanly volleyball continued its strong start to the season with the nal two games of a four-game home stand.

West also opened Rocky River Conference play this week against Anson County.

The Colts were scheduled to play a nonconference matchup at Carson on Thursday.

West Stanly will play at South Stanly on Monday, then return to conference play Tuesday at home Central Academy and travel to Parkwood next Thursday.

Monday’s match West Stanly 3, Piedmont 0

An old conference opponent from just down the road that is now a Class 6A school in the Southern Carolina Conference took on the Colts on Monday.

West Stanly took on the Piedmont Panthers and swept them in three straight sets, 25-11, 25-22 and 25-18.

Peyton Watson led the Colts with 11 kills, while Saylor Edwards reached double gures with 10 kills.

Georgia Mo tt paced West with 16 digs, while Layla Little added 11 digs and Brynli Huneycutt had nine. Scarlet Gri n led West with 30 assists and six service aces.

Tuesday’s match West Stanly 3, Anson 0

The Colts have dominated the Rocky River Conference in volleyball in terms of wins and losses.

West Stanly has won 78 straight regular-season and conference tournament games entering the season.

The Colts (4-0, 1-0 RRC) took care of the Bobcats in straight sets with scores of 28-26, 25-14 and 25-13, improving the streak to 65 games. Edwards and Melania Yow had 11 kills each to lead the Colts. Edwards made it a double-double with 10 digs. Payton Watson had ve kills, and Laney Tucker added four.

Huneycutt led West with 12 digs, while Mo tt reached double gures with 10 digs. Gri n paced the o ense with 25 assists and added four service aces.

Breaking down some top- ight players on college football teams likely to be bad this season

Two ACC players make the list of diamonds in the rough

By Steve Megargee

The Associated Press

ISAAC SMITH KNOWS what drew him to Mississippi State and why he has remained there.

“There’s no distractions in Starkville,” the junior safety told reporters during Southeastern Conference media days. “Small town. Real pretty community. The people are awesome. I fell in love with it, and I’m still in love with it and will forever always be in love with it.”

Smith’s 127 tackles last season led the Southeastern Conference and tied him for seventh place among all Football Bowl Subdivision players, production that hasn’t translated to team success. Mississippi State has gone 7-17 overall and 1-15 in SEC competition during Smith’s two seasons.

That makes Smith a natural candidate to head our list of good players on teams that gure to struggle this season, even though he believes Mississippi State has what it takes to turn things around. He considers Mississippi State a blue-collar program that values hard work.

“I love the fact that’s Mississippi State’s been all about that, just working hard and going to prove something that maybe people don’t think you can do,” Smith said.

Mississippi State’s chances of being more competitive this season depend on whether

Smith can help upgrade a defense that allowed 34.1 points per game last season. Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and Purdue were the only Power Four teams to give up more points per game.

Wake Forest RB Demond Claiborne

Claiborne rushed for 1,049 yards and 11 touchdowns last year for a Wake Forest team that nished 4-8 for a second straight season. He rushed for at least 113 yards against North Carolina A&T, NC State, Stanford and Cal. Claiborne also had 23 catches for 254 yards and two more scores.

The ACC preseason media poll forecasts Wake Forest to nish 16th out of 17 teams, ahead of only Stanford.

New Mexico RB Scottre Humphrey

After helping Montana State reach the Football Championship Subdivision title game last year, Humphrey makes the move to the FBS ranks while trying to help New Mexico produce its rst winning season since 2016.

Purdue RB Devin Mockobee

The small-town, home - stater started at Purdue as a walk-on but earned a scholarship by helping Purdue win the 2022 Big Ten West Division crown. Purdue has struggled since — going 4-8 in 2023 and 1-11 in 2024 — but Mockobee has remained productive. His 2,466 yards rushing rank him seventh on Purdue’s all-time list.

Southern Mississippi CB Josh Moten

Moten transferred to Southern Miss after intercepting ve passes for Marshall last season to tie for fourth place among all Bowl Subdivision players. Southern Miss went 1-11 last year and has won more than three games just once over the past ve seasons.

Northwestern OT Caleb Tiernan

Northwestern went 4-8 in 2024 for its third losing season in the last four years, but the Wildcats have a quality left tackle in Tiernan. He has started 30 games over the last three seasons.

Cal LB Cade Uluave

After being named the Pac -12’s freshman defensive player of the year by the league’s coaches in 2023, Uluave collected 71 tackles while playing nine games for the Golden Bears last season. Cal went 5-7 last year for its fth straight losing season, and it’s picked to nish 15th in the ACC this year.

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Let’s Work Together

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Adjunct Instructor, Adult Basic Education (Daytime)

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned has quali ed as Executor of the Estate of MARGARET J. BENNETT, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina (Stanly County File Number 25E000309-830). This is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said decedent or her estate to present the same duly itemized and veri ed to the undersigned Executor or her Attorney on or before the 3rd day of November 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the decedent or to her estate are hereby requested to pay the said indebtedness to the undersigned Executor or her attorney. This the 29th day of July 2025.

DEBORAH J. BENNETT Executor ESTATE OF MARGARET J. BENNETT 34313 Springdale Drive New London, NC 28127 CHARLES P. BROWN BROWN & SENTER, P.L.L.C. PO Box 400 Albemarle, North Carolina 280020400

Telephone: 704 982-2141

Facsimile: 704 982-0902

PUBLISH: August 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned has quali ed as Executor of the Estate of MARY H. DORTON, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina (Stanly County File Number 25E000444-830). This is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said decedent or her estate to present the same duly itemized and veri ed to the undersigned Executor or his Attorney on or before the 10th day of November 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the decedent or to her estate are hereby requested to pay the said indebtedness to the undersigned Executor or his attorney. This the 6th day of August 2025.

FONDA D. CROOKER Administrator ESTATE OF MARY H. DORTON 33610 Aaron Road Albemarle, NC 28001 CHARLES P. BROWN BROWN & SENTER, PLLC PO Box 400 Albemarle, North Carolina 280020400 Telephone: 704 982-2141 Facsimile: 704 982-0902

PUBLISH: August 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Clerk Before the Clerk

25E000442-830 Having quali ed as Executrix of the Estate of Martha Frances Hinson, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned or his attorney on or before November 17th, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 12th day of August, 2025.

ELLEN H. COLEY EXECUTRIX FOR THE ESTATE OF MARTHA FRANCES HINSON MARK T. LOWDER ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 1284 Albemarle, NC 28002 Telephone (704) 982-8558

Publish: August 17, 24, 31 and September 7, 2025

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA, IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE STANLY COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

25E000443-830

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having duly quali ed as Executrix of the estate of Paul Richard Currie, Sr., deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, is hereby notifying all persons, rms, or corporations having claims against said decedent, or his estate, to present the same to the undersigned Executrix, duly itemized and veri ed on or before the 10th day of November, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent are hereby requested to pay the said indebtedness to the undersigned Executrix. This the 5th day of August, 2025. Rhonda Cook Smith Executrix of the Estate of Paul Richard Currie, Sr. 44043 Ski Pond Road New London, NC 28127 PUBLISH: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2025 James A. Phillips, Jr. Attorney for the Estate P.O. Box 1162 117 W. North Street Albemarle, NC 28002-1162

NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY 25E000447-830

The undersigned, STEVEN CZERSKI, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of DOYLE EDWARD CZERSKI (A/K/A DOYLE E. CZERSKI and DOYLE CZERSKI), Deceased, late of Douglas County, Oregon, hereby noti es

States rethink long-held practice of setting speed limits based on how fast drivers travel

Limits have traditionally been the 85th percentile of vehicle speeds

By Je McMurray

The Associated Press

ROSE HAMMOND pushed authorities for years to lower the 55 mph speed limit on a two-lane road that passes her assisted living community, a church, two schools and a busy park that hosts numerous youth sports leagues.

“What are you waiting for, somebody to get killed?” the 85-year-old chided o cials in northwest Ohio, complaining that nothing was being done about the motorcycles that race by almost daily.

Amid growing public pressure, Sylvania Township asked county engineers in March to analyze whether Mitchaw Road’s posted speed is too high. The surprising answer: Technically, it’s 5 mph too low.

The reason dates back to studies on rural roads from the 1930s and 1940s that still play an outsized role in the way speed limits are set across the U.S. — even in urban areas.

Born from that research was a widely accepted concept known as the 85% rule, which suggests a road’s posted speed should be tied to the 15th-fastest vehicle out of every 100 traveling it in free- owing tra c, rounded to the nearest 5 mph increment.

But after decades of closely following the rule, some states — with a nudge from the federal government — are seeking to modify if not replace it when setting guidelines for how local engineers should decide what speed limit to post.

Drivers set the speed

The concept assumes that a road’s safest speed is the one most vehicles travel — neither too high nor too low. If drivers think the speed limit should be raised, they can simply step on the gas and “vote with their feet,” as an old brochure from the Institute of Transportation Engineers once put it.

“The problem with this approach is it creates this feedback loop,” said Jenny O’Connell, director of member programs for the National Association of City Transportation O cials. “Peo -

ple speed, and then the speed limits will be ratcheted up to match that speed.”

The association developed an alternative to the 85% rule known as “City Limits,” which aims to minimize the risk of injuries for all road users by setting the speed limit based on a formula that factors in a street’s activity level and the likelihood of con icts, such as collisions.

The report points out the 85% rule is based on dated research and that “these historic roads are a far cry from the vibrant streets and arterials that typify city streets today.”

Amid a recent spike in road deaths across the country, the Federal Highway Administration sent a subtle but important message to states that the 85% rule isn’t actually a rule at all and was carrying too much weight in determining local speed limits. In its rst update since 2009 to a manual that establishes national guidelines for tra c signs, the agency claried that communities should also consider such things as how the road is used, the risk to pedestrians, and the frequency of crashes.

Leah Shahum, who directs the Vision Zero Network, a nonpro t advocating for street safety, said she wishes the manual had gone further in downplaying the 85% rule but acknowledges the change has already impacted the way some states set speed limits. Others, howev-

er, are still clinging to the simplicity and familiarity of the longstanding approach, she said.

“The 85th percentile should not be the Holy Grail or the Bible, and yet over and over again it is accepted as that,” Shahum said.

Rethinking the need for speed

Under its “20 is Plenty” campaign, the Wisconsin capital of Madison has been changing signs across the city this summer, lowering the speed limit from 25 mph to 20 mph on local residential streets.

When Seattle took a similar step in a pilot program seven years ago, not only did it see a noticeable decline in serious injury crashes but also a 7% drop in the 85th percentile speed, according to the Vision Zero Network. California embraces the 85% rule even more than most states as its basis for setting speed limits. But legislators have loosened the restrictions on local governments a bit in recent years, allowing them to depart from the guidelines if they can cite a proven safety need. Advocates for pedestrians and bicyclists say the change helps, but is not enough.

“We still have a long way to go in California in terms of putting value on all road users,” said Kendra Ramsey, executive

“The problem with this approach is it creates this feedback loop. People speed, and then the speed limits will be ratcheted up to match that speed.”

Jenny O’Connell, National Association of City Transportation O cials

director of the California Bicycle Coalition. “There’s still a very heavy mindset that automobiles are the primary method of travel and they should be given priority and reverence.”

But Jay Beeber, executive director for policy at the National Motorists Association, an advocacy organization for drivers, said following the 85% rule is usually the safest way to minimize the variation in speed between drivers who abide by the posted limit and those who far exceed it.

“It doesn’t really matter what number you put on a sign,” Beeber said. “The average driver drives the nature of the roadway. It would be patently unfair for a government to build a road to encourage people to drive 45 mph, put a 30 mph speed limit on it, and then ticket everyone for doing what they built the road to do.”

80 is the new 55

Fears about oil prices prompted Congress in the 1970s to set a 55 mph national maximum speed limit, which it later relaxed to 65 mph before repealing the law in 1995 and handing the authority to states. Since then, speed limits have kept climbing, with North Dakota this summer becoming the ninth state to allow drivers to go 80 mph on some stretches of highway. There’s even a 40-mile segment in Texas between Austin and San Antonio where 85 mph is allowed. Although high-speed freeways outside major population centers aren’t the focus of most e orts to ease the 85% rule, a 2019 study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — a research arm funded by auto insurers — illustrates the risks. Every 5 mph increase to

a state’s maximum speed limit increases the chance of fatalities by 8.5% on interstate highways and 2.8% on other roads, the study found.

“Maybe back when you were driving a Model T you had a real feel for how fast you were going, but in modern vehicles you don’t have a sense of what 80 mph is. You’re in a cocoon,” said Chuck Farmer, the institute’s vice president for research, who conducted the study.

A town’s attempt at change If elected o cials in Sylvania Township, Ohio, got their way, Mitchaw Road’s posted speed limit would be cut dramatically — from 55 mph to 40 mph or lower. The county’s nding that the 85% rule actually calls for raising it to 60 mph surprised the town’s leaders, but not the engineers who ran the study.

“If we don’t make decisions based on data, it’s very di cult to make good decisions,” Lucas County Engineer Mike Pniewski said.

For now, the speed limit will remain as it is. That’s because Ohio law sets maximum speeds for 15 di erent types of roadways, regardless of what the 85% rule suggests.

And Ohio’s guidelines are evolving. The state now gives more consideration to roadway context and allows cities to reduce speed limits based on the lower standard of the 50th percentile speed when there’s a large presence of pedestrians and bicyclists. Authorities there recently hired a consultant to consider additional modi cations based on what other states are doing.

“States have very slowly started to move away from the 85th percentile as being kind of the gold standard for decision-making,” said Michelle May, who manages Ohio’s highway safety program. “People are traveling and living di erently than they did 40 years ago, and we want to put safety more at the focus.”

It’s unclear whether any of these changes will ultimately impact the posted speed on Mitchaw Road. After years of futile calls and emails to state, county and township o cials, Hammond says she isn’t holding her breath.

“I just get so discouraged,” she said.

famous birthdays

this week

Dave Chappelle is 52, Tom Skerritt hits 92, Valerie Simpson turns 79, Macaulay Culkin is 4

THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.

AUG. 24

WWE co-founder Vince McMahon is 80. Actor Anne Archer is 78. Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. is 65. Talk show host Craig Kilborn is 63. Actor-comedian Dave Chappelle is 52.

AUG. 25

Tom Skerritt is 92. Rock musician Gene Simmons (Kiss) is 76. Rock singer Rob Halford (Judas Priest) is 74. Musician Elvis Costello is 71. Film director Tim Burton is 67. Model Claudia Schi er is 55.

AUG. 26

Broadcast journalist Bill Whitaker is 74. Jazz musician Branford Marsalis is 65. Actor Macaulay Culkin is 45.

AUG. 27

Actor G.W. Bailey is 81. Rock musician Alex Lifeson (Rush) is 72. Fashion designer and lmmaker Tom Ford is 64.

AUG. 28

Actor Ken Jenkins (“Scrubs”) is 85. Former MLB manager and player Lou Piniella is 82. Former MLB pitcher Ron Guidry is 75. Actor Daniel Stern is 68. Jennifer Coolidge is 64. Film director David Fincher is 63. Country singer Shania Twain is 60. Actor Jack Black is 56. Actor Jason Priestley is 56.

AUG. 29

Actor Elliott Gould is 87. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin is 87. Olympic gold medal sprinter Wyomia Tyus is 80. Animal behaviorist and autism educator Temple Grandin is 78. Rebecca De Mornay is 66.

AUG. 30

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Gene Simmons of KISS performs during the nal night of the “Kiss Farewell Tour” in 2023 at Madison Square Garden in New York. “The Demon” turns 76 on Monday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Dave Chappelle speaks during the 39th annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2024. The comedian turns 52 on Sunday.

RICHARD DREW / AP PHOTO

Valerie Simpson of Ashford & Simpson performs during a ceremony celebrating Roberta Flack’s life at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in 2025 in New York. The singer-songwriter turns 79 on Tuesday.

Investor and philanthropist Warren Bu et is 95. Actor Elizabeth Ashley is 86. Actor John Kani is 83. Cartoonist Robert Crumb is 82. Comedian Lewis Black is 77. North Carolina U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis is 65. Actor Cameron Diaz is 53.

TIFF pulls documentary on 2023 Hamas attack from festival

O cials cited rights issue, while lmmakers claim their work is being censored

By Jake Coyle The Associated Press

NEW YORK — The Toronto International Film Festival pulled from its lineup a documentary on the Hamas 2023 attack into Israel over what the festival says was a footage rights issue.

Organizers for the festival acknowledged last Tuesday that they withdrew Canadian lmmaker Barry Avrich’safter initially o ering the lm a spot in the upcoming edition of TIFF. The lm chronicles the story of retired Israeli Gen. Noam Tibon, whose e orts to save his family and others during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack was pro led in a “60 Minutes” segment.

Representatives for the festival said in a statement that the lm’s invitation “was withdrawn by TIFF because general requirements for inclusion in the festival, and conditions that were requested when the lm was initially invited, were not met, including legal clearance of all footage.”

“The purpose of the requested conditions was to protect TIFF from legal implications and to allow TIFF to manage and mitigate anticipated and known risks around the screen-

“We invite audiences, broadcasters and streamers to make up their own mind, once they have seen it.”

“The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue” lmmakers

ing of a lm about highly sensitive subject matter, including potential threat of signi cant disruption,” the festival said.

The lmmakers, though, say the festival is engaging in “censorship” by denying the lm a place in the festival.

“We are shocked and saddened that a venerable lm festival has de ed its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this lm,” the lmmaking team said in a statement. “Ultimately, lm is an art form that stimulates debate from every perspective that can both entertain us and make us uncomfortable.”

Deadline, which rst reported the news, said a sticking point was related to the identi cation and legal clearance of Hamas militants’ own livestreaming of the attack.

The lmmakers pledged to release the lm: “We invite audiences, broadcasters and streamers to make up their own mind, once they have seen it.”

Cameron Bailey, TIFF chief

executive, apologized “for any pain this situation may have caused” and said he was still hoping to have the lm at the festival.

“I remain committed to working with the lmmaker to meet TIFF’s screening requirements to allow the lm to be screened at this year’s festival,” said Bailey. “I have asked our legal team to work with the lmmaker on considering all options available.”

Bailey strongly rejected allegations of censorship, explaining instead said the situation requires compassion and sympathy.

“The events of October 7, 2023, and the ongoing su ering in Gaza weigh heavily on us, underscoring the urgent need for compassion amid rising antisemitism and Islamophobia,” said Bailey. “While we are not a political organization, TIFF will always strive to present our programing in a safe, inclusive environment.”

The Toronto festival has sometimes prompted headlines over its selections. Last year, it canceled screenings of “Russians at War,” a documentary about Russian soldiers in the war with Ukraine. Protesters in Toronto called the lm Russian propaganda.

After the festival paused screenings due to “signi cant threats,” “Russians at War” was quietly screened toward the end of the festival.

Toronto International

Prince Harry, Meghan extend Net ix partnership

By Itzel Luna The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Prince Harry and Meghan have extended their partnership with Net ix and their media company, Archewell Productions with a multiyear, rst-look deal, the couple announced last Monday. Archewell began collaborating with the streaming giant in 2020 and have produced a handful of documentary content, including the popular “Harry & Meghan.” The Duchess of Sussex also developed a lifestyle brand, As Ever, in partnership with Net ix.

The collaboration has also produced the documentary series’ “Polo,” “Heart of Invictus” and “Live to Lead.”

“My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision,” Meghan said in a statement.

The couple and Net ix also announced upcoming collaborations, including a second season of, “With Love, Meghan,” a lifestyle and cooking show starring the duchess. The show will also receive a special holiday episode in December.

The show is Net ix’s most-watched culinary show

FRANK AUGSTEIN / AP PHOTO

In their latest move to expand business and media projects in the U.S., Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, have extended a multiyear deal with Net ix.

since its March release, according to the company. It ranked low compared to other releases in the rst half of this year, with 5.3 million views, according to Netix’s semiannual report.

“Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within,” a documentary short lm that centers on a small orphanage in Uganda’s Masaka region, is also set to release this year. Archewell is also in production with Net ix on a feature adaptation of Carley Fortune’s novel “Meet Me at the Lake.” The drama “follows a decade-spanning love story that begins with a chance encounter and a broken promise,” the statement read.

uential voices whose stories resonate with audiences everywhere. The response to their work speaks for itself,” Bela Bajaria, Net ix’s chief content ocer, said in a statement. Their extended deal with Net ix is the latest in the couple’s yearslong e ort to develop business ventures in the United

States. They had also penned a multiyear deal with Spotify in 2020 and produced a podcast, “Archetypes,” but cut ties with the company in 2023. The couple have been detangling their lives from the British royal family and are living in California with their two young children.

“Harry and Meghan are in-

this week in history

New Bern pharmacist makes Pepsi-Cola, Hurricanes Andrew and Katrina hit, King delivers “I Have a Dream”

AUG. 24

1814: During the War of 1812, British forces invaded Washington, D.C., setting re to the still-under-construction Capitol and the White House.

1954: President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Communist Control Act, outlawing the Communist Party in the United States.

1992: Hurricane Andrew smashed into Florida; the storm resulted in 65 deaths and caused more than $26 billion in damage across Florida, Louisiana and the Bahamas.

AUG. 25

1916: Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Organic Act, creating the agency to protect natural and historic sites for future generations.

1875: Matthew Webb became the rst person to swim across the English Channel, crossing from Dover, England, to Calais, France.

1944: Paris was liberated by Allied forces after four years of Nazi occupation during World War II.

AUG. 26

1944: French Gen. Charles de Gaulle led a victory march in newly liberated Paris, defying the threat of German snipers.

1939: The rst televised major league baseball games were broadcast on experimental station W2XBS: a doubleheader between the Cincinnati Reds and the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field.

1958: Alaskans went to the polls to overwhelmingly vote in favor of statehood.

AUG. 27

1883: The island volcano Krakatoa erupted with a series of cataclysmic explosions. The explosions (which could be heard 3,000 miles away) and tsunamis in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait claimed some 36,000 lives.

On Aug. 27, 1883, Krakatoa, a volcanic island, erupted with devastating explosions heard 3,000 miles away, triggering tsunamis in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait that killed about 36,000 people.

1894: Congress passed the Wilson-Gorman Tari Act, which contained a provision for a graduated income tax.

1964: The lm “Mary Poppins” had its world premiere in Los Angeles.

1990: Blues musician Stevie Ray Vaughn and four others were killed in a helicopter crash near East Troy, Wisconsin.

AUG. 28

1845: The rst issue of “Scienti c American” magazine was published; it remains the oldest continuously published magazine in the United States. 1898: Pharmacist Caleb Bradham of New Bern renamed his carbonated drink “Pepsi-Cola,” ve years after rst creating it as “Brad’s Drink.”

1955: Emmett Till, a black teen from Chicago, was abducted in Mississippi after allegedly whistling at a white woman and was found slain days later.

1963: During the March on Washington, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech before an estimated 250,000 people in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

AUG. 29

1814: During the War of 1812, Alexandria, Virginia, formally surrendered to British military forces, which occupied the city until Sept. 3.

1944: Approximately 15,000 American troops of the 28th Infantry Division marched down the Champs-Élysées in Paris to celebrate its liberation from the Nazis.

2005: Hurricane Katrina struck the U.S. Gulf Coast in southeast Louisiana, breaching levees and spurring oods that devastated New Orleans. Katrina caused nearly 1,400 deaths and an estimated $200 billion in damage.

AUG. 30

1916: On his fourth attempt, explorer Ernest Shackleton rescued 22 crew members stranded on Antarctica’s Elephant Island for four and a half months after the Endurance sank.

1963: The “Hot Line” communications link between Washington and Moscow went into operation.

1967: The Senate con rmed the appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the rst black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.