Stanly News Journal Vol. 145, Issue 71

Stanly NewS Journal

Remembering 343

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Michigan judge tosses case against accused fake electors in 2020

A Michigan judge has dismissed the criminal cases against 15 people accused of acting falsely as electors for President Donald Trump in the 2020 election. District Court Judge Kristen Simmons decided in a Tuesday hearing that the cases won’t go to trial. Charges were brought by the state’s Democratic attorney general over two years ago. The people charged include a few high pro le members of the Republican Party in the battleground state. Each faced eight charges of forgery and conspiracy to commit election forgery. They had been accused of submitting certi cates that falsely said Trump won the election in Michigan.

RFK Jr.’s latest “Make America Healthy Again” report calls for oversight of drug ads

The Trump administration is urging public health agencies to prioritize investigations of vaccine injuries, prescription drug use, and the cause of autism. The call is part of a new report released Tuesday. Overseen by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the report aims to end childhood diseases in the U.S. by refocusing public health on his so - called “MAHA” movement’s priorities. The report suggests using personal medical records and health insurance data to investigate diseases and disorders, including autism. It also addresses issues like ultraprocessed food consumption and water quality. The report calls for increased oversight of prescription drug ads, especially those by social media in uencers.

Commissioners approve $280K budget amendment for sewer line

The board also approved ve resolutions

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — The Stan-

ly County Board of Commissioners recently approved a $280,000 budget amendment to cover emergency repairs and a partial replacement of a degraded sewer line in Oakboro. At the commissioners’ meeting on Sept. 2, County Manager Andy Lucas told the board that in early August a section of the McCoy’s Creek force main blew out along Barbee’s Grove Church Road, spilling into a eld.

While an initial emergency repair was made, an additional section of the force main will need to be replaced as soon as possible with plastic pipe to avoid another leak at an adja-

cent location in the old ductile iron pipe.

“This budget amendment would allow us to go in and make a long-term repair to that section, cutting out sections on both sides of it and replacing it with plastic PVC, versus the ductile iron that’s currently there,” Lucas said. “This line is

part of the West Stanly Wastewater Treatment Plant project.”

The county is partnering with Rich eld-based utility contractor B.R.S. Inc. for the project, with work being part of broader e orts to strengthen the system.

“There is a long-term x coming,” Lucas said. “Unfortunate-

Stanly school board gives out recognitions to district sta

One local employee won a national award

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Stanly County Schools recently honored employees and sta with a series of district recognitions.

During last week’s school board meeting in the Central Elementary School Auditorium, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Lydia Hedrick opened the ceremony by announcing the latest recipients of the district’s Stanly Stars awards.

“Each month, Stanly County Schools proudly recogniz-

es exceptional, certi ed and classi ed employees as our Stanly Stars,” Hedrick said.

Aquadale Elementary School’s teacher Meredith Lowder and data manager Sarah Lee joined South Stanly Middle School’s teacher Sarah Callicutt and data manager Heather Long as the four latest recipients in the award program.

Hedrick introduced Lowder, a new member of Aquadale Elementary’s third grade team who previously taught fourth and fth grade classes at the school.

“While change is often met with apprehension, Mrs.

“Each month, Stanly County Schools proudly recognizes exceptional, certi ed and classi ed employees as our Stanly Stars,” Lydia Hedrick, assistant superintendent of human resources

“There is

a long-term x coming.” Andy Lucas, county manager

ly, this line is in such bad shape that we’re running into issues as we’re getting USDA authorization for the project and getting it under construction.”

Later in the meeting, the board also approved ve resolutions authorizing applications for North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality grants. One resolution seeks to replace an existing 16-inch McCoy’s Creek sewer outfall line; the other line is already scheduled to be replaced as part of the West Stanly Wastewater Treatment Plant project.

Trip

We stand corrected

To report an error or a suspected error, email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line. North

THURSDAY

Judges rule NC voter ID, tax cap amendments enforceable

The trial court panel reversed a previous ruling on the gerrymandering challenge

By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

RALEIGH — Two stateconstitutional amendments approved by North Carolina voters — including a photo voter identi cation mandate — are enforceable, a trial court panel ruled three years after appeals judges declared they could be nulli ed because state lawmakers who helped put them on 2018 ballots came from districts tainted by illegal racial bias.

A panel of three Superior Court judges agreed late last week with GOP legislative leaders who wanted dismissed a lawsuit that focused on whether certain legislative actions could be voided if enough General Assembly members elected from

CRIME LOG

Sept. 2

• Joseph Solomon E rd, 32, was arrested by SCSO for breaking or entering and rst degree trespassing.

Sept. 3

• Jshawn Montez Simons Borden, 29, was arrested by SCSO for possession of rearm by felon and discharging rearm in city.

• Derrick Rogers Blalock, 43, was arrested by SCSO for habitual larceny, driving while license revoked not impaired and resisting a public o cer with serious bodily injury.

racially gerrymandered districts swayed the outcome. The amendment referendums were put on the ballot through bills approved in part by lawmakers elected from nearly 30 districts struck down by federal courts as illegal gerrymanders.

The state Supreme Court ruled in August 2022 — when Democrats held a 4-3 seat majority — that canceling such referendum initiations was possible. But it said a trial judge who initially voided the two approved amendments in early 2019 needed to gather more evidence on the particulars. Along with the voter ID requirements, a majority of voters also approved an amendment lowering the cap on income tax rates from 10% to 7%.

The party-line majority opinion in 2022 said the initial judge had to evaluate whether leaving the amendments in place would allow improperly elected legislators to escape accountability, fur-

Sept. 5

• Taloria Denise Davis, 26, was arrested by SCSO for simple assault.

• Stevie Antwan Wilson, 37, was arrested by SCSO for maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for controlled substance, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, possession with intent to sell and deliver Schedule II controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sept. 6

• Robert Crosland Harrison, 45, was arrested by SCSO for driving while impaired, reckless driving

ther exclude voters from the democratic process or amount to continued discrimination. If the answer to any is yes, the justices said, an amendment must be invalidated.

Over the next three years, however, the case was transferred to a three-judge panel.

That panel issued a unanimous order last Friday, saying the state NAACP failed to “meet its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt” that the General Assembly passed the voter ID and income tax cap amendments with “discriminatory intent and that the legislation actually produces a meaningful disparate impact along racial lines.”

The ruling can be appealed to the state Supreme Court.

“To retroactively invalidate the session law enabling the Voter ID Amendment would entrench chaos and confusion especially when the Voter ID Law was upheld by the Supreme Court,” the threejudge panel wrote. Voter ID has been used since 2023.

to endanger, resisting a public o cer and possession of alcoholic beverage.

Sept. 7

• Martin Jarmis Hambrick, 51, was arrested by SCSO for assault with a deadly weapon while intoxicated and seriously injuring.

J

• ohnny Leach Price, 49, was arrested by SCSO for driving while impaired, reckless driving with wanton disregard, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, driving while license revoked not impaired, ctitious or altered title registration card or tag and possession of open container or consuming alcohol in passenger area.

DATE: Sunday, September 28, 2025

LOCATION: Bear Creek Church Fellowship Building • TIME: 1:00 p.m.

THINGS TO BRING:

Food - It is always enjoyable (bring lots of it)

Drinks - (some soft drinks will be provided) If you would like to bring tea, lemonade, or Kool-Aid they would be appreciated. Family - If some of our relatives have not been, please call and invite them or bring them along.

Photos - Our heritage is a very proud one. If you have photos of any reunion please bring them.

Plates, napkins and utensils are provided.

STANLY happening

Here’s

Sept. 13

Downtown

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Local businesses come together to o er family-friendly festivities, including creative food options, games, face painting, live music and special shopping discounts to mark the occasion.

124 W. Main St. Albemarle

Sept. 16 Chair Yoga

3-3:30 p.m.

A gentle, adult yoga class geared toward those with coordination issues or di culties standing for long periods without support. No experience or mat needed for this free class.

Main Library

133 E. Main St. Albemarle

Sept. 17

Albemarle Downtown Farmers Market

8 a.m. to noon

Featuring locally grown, created and crafted items available for purchase from vendors from across Stanly County.

Market Station

501 W. Main St. Albemarle

Sept. 18

Locust Farmers Market

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This producers-only market o ers fresh produce, homemade foods and crafts by local creators. Conveniently located across the street from Locust Elementary School. Open May through September. Corner of 24/27 and Vella Drive

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS

In defense of praying after tragedy

Leftists obsess over microaggressions, but they have no issue with their leaders mocking Christians.

THOSE WHO DENIGRATE prayer after mass shootings reveal their own ignorance.

Last month, a man red more than 100 rounds into a Catholic church in Minneapolis. He was targeting students attending a back-to -school Mass. Tragically, he killed two children and injured 18 others. He then killed himself.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey rushed to the scene and promptly criticized Christians.

“Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now,” he said. “These kids were literally praying. It was the rst week of school. They were in a church.”

“Enough with the thoughts and prayers,”

Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, wrote on X.

In response to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defending those “who believe in the power of prayer,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote on X, “These children were literally praying as they got shot at.”

Leftists obsess over microaggressions, but they have no issue with their leaders mocking Christians after Christian children were murdered for being in a Christian church.

Despite the condescension, this is an objection worth addressing.

One reason Christians pray is that there isn’t anything physically we can do in many tragic situations. But we can appeal to the God of the universe. He can

COLUMN | STEVE MILLOY

protect responding o cers. He can heal the wounded and guide the doctors caring for them. He can comfort the broken-hearted. He can supernaturally intervene in ways we can’t. And of course, a police o cer on the scene shouldn’t only respond in prayer.

If you don’t believe in God, that may seem silly. Fine. But you should understand why Christians pray.

There’s another contention in these statements, too: Prayer failed and, by extension, so did God. The shooter even wrote, “Where is your God” on one of the magazines for his ri e.

Anyone drawing this conclusion is unaware of the Bible and church history.

Jesus, God’s only begotten Son, lived a perfect life yet died on a cross while facing similar taunts: “He saved others, but he can’t save himself.”

Yet those mockers didn’t see what was happening right in front of them. On the cross, Jesus paid the penalty that you and I deserve for our sin. On the third day, God raised him from the dead. Jesus’ sacri ce o ers salvation to those who confess him as Lord and believe God raised him from the dead.

What looked to human eyes like the ultimate failure was God’s plan to save mankind — and o er a hope that pain and death can’t diminish.

“I consider that our present su erings are

not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us,” Paul wrote in Romans 8.

Those families in Minneapolis weren’t the rst Christians to su er greatly. Most of the apostles were martyred for their faith. In the Roman Empire, Christians were cruci ed, burned, thrown to the lions and otherwise tortured. Since 2009, Islamists have killed more than 50,000 Christians in Nigeria.

What’s remarkable are the many stories of Christians facing their deaths with calmness, joy or even song.

In 202 or 203 A.D., a group of Christians was arrested for their faith. After being sentenced to a gruesome death, Perpetua, a young mother, wrote in her diary, “We returned to prison in high spirits.”

A narrator continued the tale. The day before their deaths, they spoke to the mob, “stressing the joy they would have in their su ering.” As she and the other martyrs died, she urged others to “stand fast in the faith and love one another.”

Nonbelievers may assume that the earthly su ering of God’s followers diminishes Him. It doesn’t, and it hasn’t for 2,000 years. Even though I often fail to live this truth out well, our hope isn’t in this world.

And when tragedy makes that hard to remember, it’s time to pray.

Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Pulling the plug on liberal org’s dark money empire

Calling Arabella a consulting rm is like calling a casino a “hospitality business.”

THE GATES FOUNDATION’S sudden $450 million divorce from Arabella Advisors isn’t about e ciency or building deeper relationships or any of the sanitized language trotted out by both sides. This is about optics and the uncomfortable fact that America’s largest philanthropic foundation could no longer deny the political risk — and stench — of being linked to a Democratic Party dark money slush fund masquerading as “philanthropy.”

Calling Arabella a consulting rm is like calling a casino a “hospitality business.” At its core, Arabella manages a staggering web of seven shadowy nonpro t shells whose primary function is to funnel untraceable left-wing cash where donors want it, all while insulating them from scrutiny and public accountability.

For years, the Gates Foundation stood as one of Arabella’s biggest customers. Nearly half a billion dollars was shunted through opaque intermediaries, keeping campaign cash and progressive pet projects owing, hidden from the public ledger and protected with layers of legal and PR camou age.

Arabella is not a grassroots facilitator; it is a private-equity-owned revenue machine, churning more than $60 million in management fees in a single year and orchestrating the single largest source of Democratic dark money ever exposed. In the 2020 and 2022 election cycles, Arabella’s funds handled a combined $5.4 billion, outstripping even the national party committees and powering every recent leftwing victory at the local, state, and federal level. Its pop-up groups appear spontaneous but are simply billionaires’ cash disguised as local activism. “Fiscal sponsorship” is the smokescreen for a complex money shu e, making possible everything from manipulating election o ces with “Zuck

Bucks” to installing political operatives under the banner of civic engagement.

Even left-leaning media are sounding alarm bells, branding Arabella “the indisputable heavyweight of Democratic dark money” and “an opaque network” moving untold sums through chains of groups supporting partisan causes. For all Arabella’s protestations about merely providing “operational supports,” the company’s seven “sister” nonpro ts are deeply engaged in donor management, grantmaking, political funding, and lobbying on behalf of causes that suit the Democratic machine.

So why did Gates nally scramble for the exit? In truth, mounting risk and the threat of exposure forced the foundation’s hand. With President Donald Trump back in power and regulatory scrutiny intensifying, the foundation realized that continuing business with Arabella would turn toxic in a climate bent on rooting out dark money networks. Gates Foundation spokespeople tried to spin it as a back-to-basics decision focused on direct relationships with partners, but anyone following the details knows better. Even as media tiptoe around the facts, insiders admit Arabella’s brand is so politically radioactive that nonpro ts now fear losing their Gates funding. Now they are scrambling to exit the shell game before it collapses.

Nonpro ts dependent on Gates and Arabella now face a harsh reality. They must nd new sponsors or lose generous funding, as order comes down from the top for early exits and grant freezes. The supposed civil society boom fueled by Arabella’s billions now reveals itself as a top-down, donordriven masquerade, propped up by a handful of mega-donors and their money-laundering operatives.

With Gates pulling support, Arabella’s engine for left-wing activism faces a severe

blow — and the entire donor class gets a clear warning. If Gates won’t camou age Democratic dark money, others may soon follow, leaving Arabella – and the billions it recycles year after year – dangling in public view and shrinking by the day.

For years, Arabella’s front groups have championed transparency only to pervert its meaning by funding political movements and electoral schemes with hidden cash that undermines genuine political accountability. Gates has helped nance this spectacle for nearly two decades, but when reality nally lifted the veil, even the richest donor in America realized exposure wasn’t worth the price.

If the Gates Foundation, with all its billions and elite access, nally admits the political cost of laundering money through Arabella is too high, every donor with even a shred of integrity should follow suit.

The era in which the left could count on anonymous billionaires to bankroll a fake grassroots revolution may at long last be coming to an end. The sooner these dark money machines are shut o , the closer America gets to genuine political accountability — and an end to the hypocrisy that lies at the rotten core of progressive philanthropy.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer, and he publishes JunkScience.com. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

Democratic governor, Republican legislature: How Josh Stein navigates North Carolina politics

The rst-term executive works with the GOP on storm recovery and other priorities

By Gary D. Robertson

The Associated Press

FLETCHER — North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has taken an unusual approach with Republican political opponents in his rst eight months leading a highly competitive state where divided government has become the norm.

He’s trying to get along with them.

Stein, who succeeded fellow Democrat Roy Cooper in January, has made an e ort to work with the GOP-controlled General Assembly on things like storm recovery — still a top priority nearly a year since Hurricane Helene’s historic ooding — and on other issues broadly popular with North Carolinians.

He’s kept communication lines open with legislative leaders, even as they back President Donald Trump and oppose many Stein policy prescriptions.

The public, Stein said in an interview with The Associated Press, doesn’t “care whether I’m a Democrat or Republican, or that the legislature is a Democrat- or Republican-led body.”

“What they want is for whoever are in these positions to get things done that make their lives better, and that’s my job,” he added. “So I will work with whoever I need to in order to make progress for the people of North Carolina.”

His results have been mixed so far. The General Assembly passed storm-relief packages but gave Stein roughly a little over half the money he requested. It overrode several of his vetoes on bills that build up immigration enforcement, weaken transgender rights and assert other GOP priorities — results that Stein laments.

But Republicans, including some who gathered with Stein at a barbecue in the mountains recently to honor local government workers’ hurricane recovery e orts, have taken notice of the e orts he’s made.

“We appreciate everything that he’s done for us,” said Larry Chapman, a Transylvania County commissioner and Trump supporter. “I’m encouraged with Stein — he seems to

be a lot more interested in getting out with the people and listening to people more.”

Stein’s approach comes as Democratic governors nationwide struggle to navigate Republican gains and Trump’s sprawling agenda. While some chief executives have taken more combative stances against Trump and the GOP, others have opted for diplomacy.

Stein told those gathered in Fletcher that he was their ally on Helene, which caused more than 100 deaths in North Carolina and generated $60 billion in damages and needs. He did not mention political a liation.

“You and your constituents have been busting your tails to come back, and come back stronger than ever,” Stein said to hundreds at a park submerged during Helene. “I want you to know that I am in your corner.”

More communication, less confrontation

Stein, the former attorney general, shares many views with Cooper, who early on clashed with Republicans over the “bathroom bill” lawmakers enacted and sued them over laws that eroded his powers. Those clashes set a tone of distrust that wasn’t eliminated

during his eight years at the job. Cooper is now running for the U.S. Senate.

While Stein also has sued over GOP power grabs, he’s needed good relations with Republicans on storm relief and other topics. He’s speaking regularly with new Republican House Speaker Destin Hall, longtime Senate leader Phil Berger and other legislators.

“We have di erences with him on certain policies and certain processes,” Berger said recently. But, he added, “I would say that there’s still what I would consider to be a very good relationship on a personal basis with Gov. Stein.”

Stein, himself a lawmaker until 2016, has shared credit with Republicans, inviting them to signings of bipartisan bills. Last week, Stein named a GOP legislator to co-chair an energy a ordability task force.

There “was a lot of fatigue from the last eight years, of everything was a battle,” said state Rep. Jake Johnson, another Republican. “It felt like you were just having to ght to get anything done.”

Partisan divisions remain

By North Carolina standards, Stein still has used his veto stamp

“What they want is for whoever are in these positions to get things done that make their lives better, and that’s my job.”

Gov. Josh Stein

frequently — 15 times so far.

He rejected measures that would expand gun access and eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

“Because you respect the people you deal with, because you’re civil with the people you deal with, doesn’t mean you don’t have real disagreements,” Stein said. “When they pass legislation that makes the state less safe or less strong, I’ll veto them.”

Berger said the vetoes prove Stein is more left-leaning than he’s portrayed himself to be.

Democrats hold the minimum number of seats necessary to uphold Stein’s vetoes if they remain united. But Stein was unable to hold them together on eight vetoes — as one to three House Democrats joined Republicans in voting to override them.

Another major veto decision

looms if there’s a nal state budget, now two months overdue.

“Stein has lost some big-time issues” this year, Meredith College political science professor David McLennan said. “But it doesn’t mean that he’s not a successful governor in his rst year.”

Visiting areas damaged by Helene

Stein’s latest trip to western North Carolina marked his 34th separate day spent in the region as governor, re ecting a promise to rebuild “a more resilient region for the long haul.”

“A lot of the job is showing up,” said Chuck McGrady, a former Republican legislator from the mountains. “He is meeting with a wide range of people, and I think he’s gotten very high grades from folks, regardless of their politics.”

Helene’s recovery began during presidential and gubernatorial campaigns and prompted accusations by Trump and allied Republicans that the response from Democratic administrations was weak.

Stein included Johnson and McGrady, now an una liated voter, on a recovery committee. And he created a recovery agency separate from a Cooper-era o ce criticized for housing repair delays after hurricanes Matthew and Florence. Stein met Trump when the president visited the hard-hit region during his rst days in o ce.

Stein said this week he’s seeking an additional $11.5 billion in aid from Congress. His administration says nancial assistance received so far from the federal government as a percentage of total damages and needs is small compared with what was provided after other recent U.S. hurricanes.

A White House spokesperson responded, saying the “request is evidence that he is un t to run a state.” Other Republicans previously said Stein’s administration hasn’t converted what money it’s received to repairs fast enough.

Stein still thinks he can get his messages across without trying to show anybody up.

“I think you can disagree with folks and still be civil, and so when I have concerns about what the administration is doing, I have no hesitation to say what I believe when it hurts North Carolina,” he said.

Judge OKs settlement in NC voter registration lawsuit by Justice Department

The agreement ensures compliance with federal voting law

By Gary D. Robertson

The Associated Press

RALEIGH — A federal judge on Monday approved a plan to settle a lawsuit led by President Donald Trump’s Justice Department that demanded North Carolina election o cials accumulate identi cation numbers lacking on the records of more than 100,000 registered voters.

U.S. District Judge Richard Myers signed the proposed consent agreement led a few days ago by lawyers for the department’s Civil Rights Division and the State Board of Elections. They said would it ensure the state’s compliance with federal law and avoid an expensive trial.

The May 27 lawsuit accused the state board of violating the Help America Vote Act by failing to ensure registration records were accurate for federal elections. The state board already initiated a “Registration Repair Project” in mid-July, asking that 103,000 registered voters supply missing numerical identi ers. There are close to 7.6 million registered voters in North Carolina, where statewide elections are often closely contested.

Federal and North Carolina laws have directed that since 2004 election o cials request registrants provide a voter’s driver’s license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. For about a decade, however, the state’s registration form failed to make clear voters were supposed to provide

BUDGET from page A1

Others

distribution merger and regionalization fea-

BOARD from page A1

Lowder has embraced her new grade with curiosity, learning the di erences while helping students maintain their love of reading and building condence,” Hedrick said.

Next up was Lee, who navigates the In nite Campus student information system for Aquadale.

“Families and teachers trust her guidance as we all learn something new,” Hedrick said of Lee. “No matter how many tasks she has, each question is met with genuine care, concern and support.”

The two representatives of South Stanly Middle were addressed next.

“Mrs. Callicutt goes above and beyond to support colleagues by leading profession-

“The complaint was asking for nothing more than what we were already preparing to do.”

Sam Hayes, State Board of Elections executive director

a number if they had one, resulting in records that indicate numerical IDs have never been provided.

A previous edition of the state board, in which Democrats held

sibility study, a Stan eld sewer collection merger and regionalization feasibility study, and an update to the Stanly County Utilities Water System Master Plan.

al development sessions that strengthen the teaching sta ,” Hedrick said. “Mrs. Long plays a pivotal role at South Stanly Middle as the dedicated data manager, supporting teachers, students and the entire school community with her exceptional knowledge and commitment.”

SCS Superintendent Jarrod Dennis then recognized Staneld Elementary School teacher Daniella Laviano Robinson, who earned the 2025-26 Fulbright Teacher Exchange Award from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.

“She joins a distinguished group of 400 educators participating in this global exchange program which fosters international collaboration, cultural understanding and sharing

a majority, updated the form but declined to contact people statewide to request numbers in time for the 2024 elections. The lack of numerical IDs surfaced in litigation led by the Republican Party in 2024 and in challenges to results in a state Supreme Court race.

The board ipped to a Republican majority in early May, and the lawsuit was led soon after. It cited, in part, Trump’s broad executive order on elections in March that it said was designed to “guard against illegal voting, unlawful discrimination, and other forms

“All those would be grant applications so we would seek to pay all, or a signi cant portion, of all those projects,” Lucas said. “These are just applications and the resolutions asso -

of innovative teaching practices worldwide,” Dennis said of Robinson.

Each year, about 800 scholars teach or conduct research abroad through the Fulbright Program, while more than 2,000 recent college graduates, graduate students and early career professionals participate in research exchanges or work as English teaching assistants in schools overseas.

Since its founding in 1946, the program has given over 400,000 students, teachers, artists, professionals and scholars the opportunity to teach and conduct research abroad.

The Stanly County Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting on Oct. 7 at 6:15 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

of fraud, error, or suspicion.”

Through public requests and mailings, the registrants in the pool already have fallen below 80,900 as voters provide information. The agreement requires another round of letters be sent by mid-December to registrants who have not responded, and for the board to provide plan updates to DOJ into 2027.

“The complaint was asking for nothing more than what we were already preparing to do, which was to look internally for this information at the same time that we were reach-

ciated with applying for them. Hopefully we’ll get the funding. We’ll be back if that is the case for the board to consider and take action on those, and that’ll come at a later date.”

ing out to the voters themselves to provide the information,” new board Executive Director Sam Hayes told reporters Monday after a board meeting. “So we’re on a path to do that now.”

People who remain on the list must vote provisionally the next time they cast a ballot and are being asked to provide an ID number at the polls. Low-turnout elections for municipal and local races are held this fall, with the rst of three rounds happening Tuesday.

While some ballots may not count in state and local races if a voter fails to provide an ID number or an alternate form of ID, the agreement makes clear ballot choices for federal o ces must be counted so long as the person is otherwise eligible to vote. The next federal elections are in March.

The Democratic National Committee earlier threatened to sue the state elections board, worried that any plan would remove people from lists of eligible voters in federal elections. Party attorney Dan Freeman last week called the agreement details a “huge victory for the DNC and, more importantly, our democracy.”

Separate from the consent agreement are an additional 98,000 registered voters who have provided a required ID number but it has not been validated by a government database. That could happen because a person changed their name when they got married, or because the number was entered wrongly into the state’s registration system.

The state elections board voted along party lines last month to require this group to cast provisional ballots until their ID numbers were validated. The board, meeting again Monday, instead agreed unanimously these voters can keep casting regular ballots as long as they have shown an ID at the polls, in keeping with state law.

The Stanly County Board of Commissioners is set to hold its next regular meeting on Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. inside the Gene

Meeting Room at

Fred Stephen Hopkins

Aug. 14, 1930 – Sept. 7, 2025

Steve Hopkins, 95, of Albemarle, peacefully entered his heavenly home on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the Taylor House. His funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at South Albemarle Baptist Church, with Pastor Danny Laws o ciating. Burial will follow at Stanly Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care.

Born on August 14, 1930, in Stanly County, Steve was the son of the late Fred Haywood Hopkins and Maude Carpenter Hopkins. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, where he developed a lifelong love of storytelling and often shared cherished memories from his time of service.

A devoted follower of Christ, Steve was a longtime member of South Albemarle Baptist Church, where his faith guided every part of his life. When asked what mattered most to him, his answer was always the same: “Jesus.” He lived out that faith daily, leading by example with a generous heart, a servant’s spirit, and an unwavering love for his family.

Steve dedicated his career to education as the principal of Endy Elementary School, where he touched the lives of countless students, families, and colleagues. After retiring from education, he followed

Betty McDonald

April 8, 1938 – Aug. 29, 2025

Betty Lankford McDonald died unexpectedly, but peacefully, on August 29, 2025, at Atrium Health Cabarrus in Concord, NC. Betty was born on April 8, 1938 to Annie Pearl Atkins and Otis Gregory Lankford. She spent her childhood in Jasper, Alabama before moving with her family to Montgomery, where she met the love of her life, Harold Lawson McDonald. Upon graduating from Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery, Betty brie y attended Judson College, but after a proposal of marriage from Harold, transferred to Howard College in Birmingham to be with him. Betty had a number of jobs throughout her life, one of which was the coveted director of countless weddings, but her true vocation was Christian service alongside Harold in his roles as pastor of First Baptist Church of Burnsville, NC and First Baptist Church of Albemarle, NC. She acted as co-Youth Director at First Baptist Burnsville and taught many Sunday School classes at First Baptist Albemarle. As devoted as she was to her church, however, nothing in her life rivaled

OBITUARIES

his entrepreneurial spirit and pursued his passion for real estate as the owner and operator of Hopkins Real Estate.

He was a man of many talents and interests. Steve loved construction work, reading-especially the Bible, and writing stories about local history and his life, including his time in the Navy. Above all else, he loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly. He adored and spoiled his wife, children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Juanita Florence Poplin Hopkins, who passed away on November 13, 2013.

He is survived by two daughters, Trina H. Smith of Albemarle and Tonya Hopkins Kerr of Charlotte; a brother, Larry Hopkins; sisters Violet Smith and Helen Swaringen, all of Norwood; four grandchildren, Wendy Holbert, Brett Smith, Derek Smith, and Erica Kerr Sued; and twelve cherished great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Lesca Bundy.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to:

South Albemarle Baptist Church 1005 S 2nd St Albemarle, NC 28001

North Carolina Baptist Children’s Homes 204 Idol St Thomasville, NC 27360

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org

American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org

Steve lived a long and ful lling life devoted to his faith, his family, and his community. His gentle spirit, kind heart, and steadfast devotion will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

her love of and devotion to her family. Her 67-year marriage to Harold was a romance for the ages. Their devotion to each other grew stronger each year until Harold’s death separated them— but only physically—in 2024. Close behind her devotion to Harold was her adoration of her four children, her nine grandchildren, and her three great-grandchildren. Anyone who spoke with Betty for more than a few minutes would be treated to an anecdote of some recent happening (illustrated with photos) among her expansive and expanding brood. Preceding Betty in death were her daughter Lori McDonald Baysden, and her husband, the Reverend Harold McDonald. She is survived by her children Carole McDonald Lewis, and Al (Charleston, SC), Dr. Hal McDonald, and Nancy (Asheville, NC), Dr. Susan McDonald, and Lyn (Charleston, SC); her grandchildren A. D. Lewis IV, and Christie (Charleston, SC), Elizabeth Lewis (Charleston, SC), Hillary McDonald, and Nick (Leonardtown, MD), Dr. Lawson McDonald, and Julia (Fort Lauderdale, FL), Eleanor McDonald (Lyme, NH), Sydney Baysden Spivey, and Stephen (Raleigh, NC), Reilly Baysden (Raleigh, NC), Ashton Baysden, and Andrew (Raleigh, NC), and Harrison Baysden (Raleigh, NC); her great-grandchildren Miller Spivey (Raleigh, NC), West Spivey (Raleigh, NC), Elizabeth McDonald (Fort Lauderdale, FL); her brother Bob Lankford, and Margaret (Troy, AL); and her cousin Diana Ambrose (Black Mountain). A memorial service celebrating Betty’s life will be held at First Baptist Church of Albemarle, NC on Saturday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m. Donations in Betty’s memory may be made to First Baptist Church, Albemarle.

IN MEMORY

BRENDA HINSON HATHCOCK

OCT. 3, 1946 – AUG. 31, 2025

Brenda Hinson Hathcock, 78, of New London, entered eternal life on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

Born October 3, 1946, to the late Cleavie and Ruby (E rd) Hinson. She was a lifelong resident of Stanly County and a faithful member of Prospect Church.

Brenda will be fondly remembered for her gentle spirit, her kindness and the love she showed to those around her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, John Hathcock Sr.; step-son, John Hathcock Jr.; two beloved sisters, Elaine Huneycutt and Jane (David) Hatley; and adoring brother, Louis (Barbara) Hinson. She also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents and brotherin-law, Larry Huneycutt.

The Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Prospect Church in Albemarle.

ELDER DELORIS CHAMBERS

NOV. 7, 1947 – SEPT. 1, 2025

Deloris Chambers was born on November 7, 1947, to Horace Sr. and Gertrude Barringer Chambers. Deloris was a lifelong citizen of the West Badin community, having attended West Badin High School before nishing her senior year at North Stanly High School with the class of 1967. She graduated from Rowan Tech with an associate’s degree in Secretarial Science.

She was a dedicated public servant, a tireless advocate, and a beloved community leader. She served on the Badin Town Council for more than 30 years, serving as Councilwoman, Mayor Pro Tem, Organizer of Teens Making a Di erence, Veterans Day Parade organizer, and many other activities.

“Councilwoman Chambers was at the heart of our community,” Town of Badin Mayor W. Demar Huntley said. “She believed in bringing people together, in building bridges, and in doing the hard work of creating a town that works for everyone.”

A proud mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Deloris Chambers often said her greatest inspiration came from her family and neighbors. Her door was always open, and her heart was always full — whether she was assisting with fundraisers, mentoring youth, or walking side-by-side with residents in times of need.

Also, Deloris was an ordained Elder and Assistant Pastor of the Church of the Living God in Badin. She loved praise and worship and was a fervent prayer warrior and astute Bible student.

She leaves to her memory a son, Rev. Reginald (Rev. Shirley) Chambers; two granddaughters:

Courtney (Terence) Bradshaw and Kennedy Chambers; a great granddaughter (Shiloh Bradshaw); sisters: Mother Lorrie Jackson and Deaconess Joretha Washington (Bishop Roy); a brother, Bishop Horace (Elder Sharon) Chambers; along with nieces, a nephew, and a host of great nieces, and nephews.

MARGARET ELLEN (HINSON) YOUNG

FEB. 1, 1951 – SEPT. 2, 2025

Early on the morning of September 2, 2025, Pastor Margaret E. Young took her ight home to be with her Lord and Savior. We pause at this time to give thanks to the Almighty God for the time He allowed us to share with her. A God-fearing woman, Pastor Young was born February 1, 1951, in Stanly County, North Carolina, to the parentage of the late Thomas Calvin and Margaret Hinson Young. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Doris A. Butler, Dolly Hinson, Valerie Hinson, Wayne Hinson and Frankie Hinson. Pastor Young was educated in the public schools of Stanly County, graduating from North Stanly High School in New London, North Carolina.

She was a Pastor of Greater Glory Transformation Center, Salisbury, North Carolina. In her leisure, she enjoyed singing about the goodness of the Lord and reading her Bible. Those left in the sunshine of life to hold fond loving memories are her daughter, Chrystal (Charles) Krider, Salisbury, North Carolina; sons: Pastor Gerard (Yalanda) Edwards, Salisbury, North Carolina and Quintin D. Edwards (Stephanie Riopelle), New London, North Carolina, Chris Hinson, Charleston, South Carolina; nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren; sisters: Helen (Forrest) Davis, New London, North Carolina, Bernice Hinson, Raeford, North Carolina, and Jane Hinson, Washington, DC; brothers: Henry (Bonnie) Hinson, Albemarle, North Carolina and Marvin (Francine) Young, Salisbury, North Carolina; special friends: Charlie Belle Christian, Reverend Althea Harris, Roberta Hayes; a host of other relatives and friends.

GAIL THOMPSON HATHCOCK

MAY 7, 1950 – SEPT. 4, 2025

Gail Thompson Hathcock, 75, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A celebration of her life will be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Don Crusenberry o ciating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle.

Born on May 7, 1950, in Rockingham, NC, Gail was the daughter of the late George Cecil Thompson and Mae Bell Arnette Thompson. She spent much of her career as a secretary in the textile industry, where her dedication and attention to detail were admired by those who worked alongside her.

Gail was a proud member of Mt. View Baptist Church and lived her life rooted in faith. Her favorite scripture, Matthew 19:26, guided her heart and spirit: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Those who knew Gail will remember her for her warm personality, quick wit, and love of laughter. She enjoyed shopping, traveling, and especially going on cruises — often returning with stories of unexpected adventures, like the time she got “stuck in a foreign country,” a memory she loved to laugh about. Her family describes her as talkative, protective, funny, loving, strong-willed, and delightfully stubborn — qualities that made her unforgettable.

She had a few strong dislikes — including chicken and snakes — but her heart lit up for sun owers, her favorite ower, and she adored the song “You Are My Sunshine.”

Gail is survived by her devoted husband, Ronnie Hathcock, and her three children: Michelle Sullivan (Ron) of Asheboro, Julie Myrick of Nashua, NH, and Justin Myrick (Kristi) of Candor. She also leaves behind four brothers: Whitey Thompson, Yankee Thompson (Debbie), Don Thompson, and George Thompson; and her sister Pat Couch (Ken) and her two beloved furr-babies Rocky and Roxie.

She is also survived by two stepchildren: Buck Hathcock (April) and Buster Hathcock (Angie); nine grandchildren: Mitchell Davis, Robbie Davis, Jacob Davis, Kalli Myrick, Lillie Davis, Wesley Myrick, Jordan Myrick, Karmen Barbee, and Brodie Myrick; six step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and four step-great-grandchildren. In addition she is also survived by many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Elane Thompson.

The family wishes to express their thanks to the Atrium Stanly ICU Sta , Respiratory Sta , Hospice Sta and Stanly County EMS Services.

Gail’s life was de ned by her love for her family, her deep faith, and the joy she found in life’s simple moments. Her laughter, strength, and sunshine will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

CHARLES HARRIS SR.

DEC. 25, 1948 – SEPT. 5, 2025

Charles Melvin Harris Sr., 76, of Cottonville, passed away Friday, September 5, 2025, at Atrium Healthcare Stanly. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 8th, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Cottonville Baptist Church. Rev. JR Murr will o ciate. A graveside service will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday from 1-2 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood.

Charles was born on December 25, 1948, in Montgomery County to the late Jarvis and Gertie Burris Harris. He was a graduate of West Montgomery High, class of 1967. Following graduation, he married his wife, Linda Kendall Harris; and was promptly enlisted into the United States ARMY, where he served in Alaska. Upon his discharge, he spent a short time working in the sock mill and served as supervisor at several companies before he became a supervisor for Michelin– which he did until his retirement with the company. After retiring from Michelin, Charles spent as much time as he could with his church family.

Charles spent many days attending and aiding in drag races with his boys, Chuck and Michael, whom he adored greatly. He loved his entire family and cherished time with all of them, especially when spending this time at the beach. When it comes to sports teams, Charles was a strong Yankees and Duke fan. In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his brother, David Harris, and nephew, Jeremy Harris.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Linda Kendall Harris, of the home; his sons: Charles Harris Jr “Chuck”, and Michael Harris; brothers: Ricky Harris (Sharon), Ronnie Harris (Joyce); sister, Carol Smith (Chris); numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of great-nieces and nephews.

STANLY SPORTS

West Stanly storms past Albemarle with 43 unanswered points

The Colts notched their rst win of the season

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — West Stan-

ly’s varsity football team shook o an early stumble and rolled to its rst win of the season Friday night, defeating Albemarle 43-7 at Bulldog Stadium.

The Colts (1-0) snapped a six-game losing streak dating back to last season, while the Bulldogs (2-1) came up short as they aimed for the

school’s rst 3-0 start since 2012.

After Albemarle struck rst early in the game with a 72-yard touchdown run by sophomore AJ Butler following a mu ed punt recovery, West Stanly dominated the rest of the way with 43 unanswered points.

West coach Ralph Jackson said that while he had seen ashes of progression from his players in their previous two losses, he was excited to see his team put together a full performance they could be proud of.

“The guys played as a unit for the rst time and did things the right way,” Jackson said. “There

“The guys played as a unit for the rst time and did things the right way.”

West Stanly coach Ralph Jackson

are still a lot of mistakes for us to clean up. Hats o to (Albemarle) coach Davis. He has a really athletic team, very young. But I’m just happy for my guys to nally get a victory. … This absolutely shows us what we’re capable of.”

The Colts’ 43 points were the most the team had scored in a single game since a 45-0 home win over South Stanly back on Aug. 19, 2022.

Quarterback Dominik Danzy fueled West’s o ensive surge with four touchdowns — two passing and two rushing. The junior nished with 102 yards in the air and a team-best 162 yards on the ground.

In the rst half, Danzy connected with sophomore receivers Austin Godley and Javier Padilla on scoring strikes of 27 and 28 yards, then added a 1-yard sneak and a 68-yard burst that

gave the Colts a 27-7 lead at the break.

In the second half, West’s Logan Faile broke free for a 32-yard touchdown, kicker Alan Cruz added a 26-yard eld goal, and running back Mason Jackson capped the night with a 7-yard run into the end zone. Jackson was the Colts’ second-leading rusher with 75 ground yards.

For the Bulldogs, the team’s rushing attack that had averaged nearly 300 yards in its past two games was limited to just 39 yards; sophomore quarterback Ray Blakeney led Albemarle with 21 yards.

West Stanly is set to travel to Pageland, South Carolina, on Friday to face undefeated Central (2-0). Albemarle has a bye week before beginning Yadkin Valley Conference play Sept. 19 at home against Thomas Je erson Classical Academy (1-1).

Falcon sophomore Seth Limbert was awarded Monday

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER — A

Pfei er Falcon was named USA South men’s soccer defender of the week by the conference.

The USA South Athletic Conference announced that Pfei er sophomore goalkeeper Seth Limbert, who has assumed the Falcons’ starting role this season, is the recipient of the weekly honor.

Tucker Speak (Mary Baldwin), Trey Gohr (Methodist), Ayden Miller (William Peace), Joel McGinnes (N.C. Wesleyan) and Alvaro Hermosa (Greensboro) were also nominated for the category.

In his performance last week, Limbert stopped all six shots and had his rst career shutout for the Falcons (2-0) in

a 3-0 win over Averett (1-1-1).

“I felt like we defended really well as a team. We worked really hard, and honestly made my job pretty easy,” Limbert said in a video pro le from the Falcons soccer program. “I just think we’re a really strong team collectively. I think everyone is willing to buy in this year and we’re working hard. We’re one team this year and our chemistry has been good so far.”

So far this season, the Mooresville native has played every minute of Pfei er’s two matchups after sitting back in the team’s goalkeeper depth chart last season.

Limbert was one of three goalkeepers on last year’s roster, along with junior Tommaso Cantini and senior Ali Jaafar. This fall, the sophomore has returned to the net alongside Cantini and freshman Isaac Barefoot.

Pfei er is now 2-0 for the second time in three seasons

as the Falcons look to continue their winning ways. The team hosted Piedmont at Lefko -Mills Field on Tuesday and will host Shaw on Friday, kicking o a homestand in Misenheimer following a pair of road matchups to start the year. Coming o its toughest season in more than a decade, Pfei er is trying to rebound this season under ninth-year coach Tony Faticoni as he chases the program’s rst conference championship as a USA South member. The Falcons, who posted a

“We’re one team this year and our chemistry has been good so far.”

Seth Limbert, Pfei er goalkeeper

4-8-3 record and nished seventh in the conference with a 1-5-1 mark last fall, were recently picked sixth in a 2025 preseason coaches poll. Pfei er is set to open USA South play on Sept. 27 at preseason favorite N.C. Wesleyan.

Hamlin advances in Cup Series playo s at Gateway

“You all can boo me, but you can either get on the bandwagon or get run over by it. I want all the noise and all the heat.”

Denny Hamlin

The driver’s 59th career win came from the pole and marks the 200th rst-place nish for Toyota

The Associated Press

MADISON, Ill. — Nothing seems to distract Denny Hamlin, and the NASCAR star proved it again with a laser-focused victory at World Wide Technology Raceway on Sunday to advance in the Cup Series playo s.

After a week in which his father was ailing and his 23XI Racing team lost a decision in its court battle with NASCAR, Hamlin compartmentalized his concerns and stayed on task for a virtually awless weekend, starting from the pole position and leading a race-high 75 of 240 laps.

“I just step up,” Hamlin said after his series-high fth victory this season. “All I can do is just keep being a student of the game, keep trying to get better, and every week is a chance to get a little better.”

With his 59th career win, Hamlin advanced to the second round of the playo s and joined Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Chase Briscoe, who nished second after winning last week’s opener at Darlington Raceway. Chase Elliott nished third, followed by Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano as playo drivers swept the top ve spots at the 1.25-mile oval.

The No. 11 Toyota team called Hamlin to the pits for his nal stop with 44 laps remaining, and he cycled to the front on a caution 15 laps later. The Virginia native seized the lead from Brad Keselowski on the restart, delivering the 200th win in NASCAR’s premier series for Toyota.

The Joe Gibbs Racing star celebrated with a long burnout down the front stretch of the track outside St. Louis that is commonly referred to as Gateway, bringing boos raining down from a sellout crowd to Hamlin’s delight.

“You all can boo me, but you can either get on the bandwagon or get run over by it,” he said. “I want all the noise and all the heat.”

Relishing life as a NASCAR villain is one of many roles being lled by the multitasking Hamlin, who also co-hosts a podcast while running 23XI Racing, the three-car team that he co-owns with NBA legend Michael Jordan.

It’s had little impact on the on-track performance for Hamlin, who is in his 20th Cup season driving for team owner Joe Gibbs. At Gateway, he became the seventh driver in Cup Series history with multiple victories after his 700th start.

Team owner Joe Gibbs marvels at how Hamlin, who turns 45 in November and welcomed his third child in June, is able to juggle so much.

“He’s in one meeting after another,” Gibbs said with a laugh. “The more stu he does, the better o he is. He’s got a real drive to succeed.”

The ultimate prize would be a rst Cup championship, and Hamlin took another step toward that goal by locking into the next round ahead of the Sept. 13 race at Bristol Motor Speedway. The rst-round cuto race will trim the playo eld from 16 to 12 drivers.

South Stanly volleyball, 4-6, 1-0 in Yadkin Valley 2A/3A

Last week’s scores: Won 3-0 at Albemarle Won 3-0 at North Rowan

This week’s schedule: Sept. 9 vs. North Stanly Sept. 11 at Union Academy Sept. 15 vs. Parkwood Sept. 16 vs. Gray Stone Day

Nothing like a two-match win streak, both in three-game sweeps, to turn things around. The Rowdy Rebel Bulls snapped a three-game losing streak, posted a win in the conference opener and topped rival Albemarle. Not a bad week.

South Stanly boys’ soccer, 2-1

Last week’s scores: Lost at South Davidson, 6-3

This week’s schedule: Sept. 10 at Albemarle Sept. 15 at North Rowan

The Rowdy Rebel Bulls took their rst loss of the season, in a rematch with South Davidson. The team continues a threematch road trip this week.

West Stanly volleyball, 9-2, 5-0 in Rocky River 4A/5A

and sophomore Luke Jacobi two. Senior Axel Villegas, sophomore Blessings Byamunga and Jaimes added assists as the Colts opened league play.

North Stanly volleyball, 4-7, 1-1 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores: Lost 3-2 at Union Academy Won 3-1 vs. Gray Stone Day

This week’s schedule: Sept. 9 at South Stanly Sept. 11 vs. North Rowan Sept. 13 at Southwest Randolph Sept. 13 vs. McMichael Sept. 15 vs. West Stanly

The Comets snapped a threematch losing streak and won for the rst time in their newly reconstituted conference.

North Stanly boys’ soccer, 3-4

Last week’s scores: Lost 9-0 at Wheatmore Won 2-0 at South Davidson Lost 7-0 at West Davidson

This week’s schedule: Sept. 10 vs. Union Sept. 11 vs. North Davidson Sept. 15 vs. Gray Stone Day

There is only one game on Friday in a sparse Week 4

Stanly News Journal sta

South Stanly 39, Anson 38

The NCHSAA’s o season realignment has the Rowdy Rebel Bulls getting acquainted with plenty of new opponents. South Stanly played Anson on Friday for the rst time since 2016. The Rowdy Rebel Bulls had lost in four consecutive years when the series was discontinued, but this year’s Bulls posted their rst win over the Bearcats in more than two decades.

The wild game featured ve lead changes and saw South Stanly win with a touchdown in the nal minute. Carter Callicutt carried the ball 15 times for 141 yards and three touchdowns. He also caught a 31-yard pass from Kaleb Richardson. The quarterback completed 19 of 30 passes for 269 yards and two scores.

Jasiah Holt and Wy-

att Crawford caught touchdowns, while Jayden Woods was the top target with six catches for 108 yards and a team-high 48 on the ground. Holt also had 100 kick return yards.

The win moves South Stanly to 2-1. This week, the Rowdy Rebel Bulls are o . After the break in the schedule, they face another unfamiliar foe in Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy. The Eagles are 0-3, with a 37-point loss to Hickory Grove and a 42-point loss at South Davidson. Last week, BCLA fell to Langtree Charter, 27-24. The game kicks o Sept. 19 at South at 7 p.m.

North Stanly 17, Montgomery Central 14

The Comets and Timberwolves met for the rst time ever, and North Stanly built a 17-point lead on the back of its defense. North returned a fumble for a touchdown and added a safety, as the defense came close to outscoring the Com-

ets o ense. The D also had an interception and stopped Montgomery on downs.

North Stanly then withstood a 14-point Montgomery rally in the fourth quarter to pull out the win and move to 2-1 on the season. North has this week o before playing Mountain Island Charter on the Sept. 19. The Raptors are coming o a 7-6 2024 season and are 1-1 in 2024.

West Stanly 43, Albemarle 7

We cover the Colts’ big win over the Bulldogs on B1. Albemarle is now 2-1 and has a week o to recover before facing the Thomas Je erson Classical Academy. The Gryphons are coming o a 3-8 year and opened 2025 at 1-1. West is 1-2 and takes on Central in the only action this Friday for county teams. Central is 2-0 with a shutout of Lewisville and a 55-20 win over Lamar. The Eagles were 10-3 last season.

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

Last week’s scores: Won 3-0 vs. Monroe Lost 3-2 at Southwest Randolph Won 3-0 at Forest Hills

This week’s schedule: Sept. 9 vs. Mount Pleasant Sept. 11 at Anson Sept. 15 at North Stanly

The Colts saw their fourmatch win streak snapped but bounced back quickly. They remain unbeaten in conference at 5-0.

West Stanly boys’ soccer, 3-5, 1-1 in Rocky River 4A/5A

Last week’s scores: Lost 2-1 at Parkwood Lost 5-0 at Montgomery Central Won 4-3 at Mount Pleasant

This week’s schedule: Sept. 10 vs. CATA Sept. 15 at Monroe

Sophomore Oswaldo Jaimes scored three goals this week

The Comets now have their most wins in a season in the last seven years. The team also survived four straight on the road and now return home for three. Albemarle volleyball, 2-2, 0-2 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores: Lost vs. South Stanly, 3-0 Lost at Union Academy, 3-0

This week’s schedule: Sept. 10 at North Rowan Sept. 11 vs. Gray Stone Day Sept. 15 vs. TMASACCC

The Bulldogs opened conference play with their rst two losses of the season.

Albemarle boys’ soccer, 3-4

Last week’s scores: Won 13-0 vs. TMASACCC

This week’s schedule: Sept. 10 vs. South Stanly Sept. 15 at Union Academy

Sophomore Yaifeth Reyes and junior Jack Sanchez helped provide the o ense for the Bulldogs.

YARD SALE

Cheerleading Fundraiser yard sale!!

Date: September 13, 2025 • Time: 7 a.m-11 a.m • Location: Jay’s Downtown Downtowner, 1230 E. Main st Albemarle Let someone else’s stu be your treasure!

FOR SALE

2009 Toyota Highlander Limited Edition • Gold with tan leather interior. Regularly serviced and garage kept. Looks, runs, drives and handles like a new car. Excellent condition. No disappointments.

$8,450 - Call 704-238-3616

Treadmill for sale • Excellent condition • $240 Call 704-238-3616

FOR RENT

Brick house • Two Bedroom, Livingroom, Dining room, One full bath all new, New kitchen, new oors, and new paint throughout. Fully renovated • Central heating and air • New refrigerator and stove.

$1700 per month • Good location • 1216 West Main Street

704-991-6486

Let’s Work Together

Full-Time

• Architect, System

• Director, Campus Food Services

• Instructor, Cosmetology (9-month)

• Instructor, English

• Program Head, Accounting

• Program Head, Electrical Line Worker

Part-Time

• Adjunct Instructor, BLET

NOTICES

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE No. 25E000424-830 NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as EXECUTRIX of the estate of RICHARD C. LEONARD, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said RICHARD C. LEONARD to present them to the undersigned on or before December 3, 2025, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 3rd day of September, 2025. Executrix: Millicent Leonard 2033 Sprucewood Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Erin L. Basinger Attorney at Law PO Box 65 Albemarle, NC 28002 (704) 322-2800

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

Melinda Donna Kimrey Hatley Thompson, having quali ed as Administratrix of the Estate of Jerry Ray Kimrey, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, gives this notice to all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate and asks that they present such claims, duly veri ed, to the Administratrix in care of: Je Williams-Tracy, Esq. Fletcher, Tydings, et. al. 100 Queens Road, Suite 250 Charlotte, NC 28204-3199 on or before the 1st day of December 2025, or this Notice will be pled in bar of recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the estate. This, the 27th day of August 2025 Court File #: 25E000465-830

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF STANLY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER 25E000485-830 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LARRY BOLES, SR. Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of James Larry Boles, Sr., this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present such claims to the undersigned or his attorney on or before the 10th day of December, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This the 10th day of September, 2025. Administrator: James Larry Boles, Jr. 72 Pine Ridge Drive Whispering Pines, NC 28237 Attorney for the estate: Connie Edwards Mosher First Street Legal 239 N 1st Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Dates of publication: September 10, 17, 24, October 1

Notice to Creditors

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NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Executor of the ESTATE OF DONNA ROSE SMART HUNEYCUTT, deceased of 16207 Pless Mill Road, Stan eld, NC 28163 (Stanly County Clerk of Court Case No. 25E000464-830), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Decedent DONNA ROSE SMART HUNEYCUTT to present them to the undersigned RICHARD LEON HUNEYCUTT, Executor, PO Box 56, Locust, NC 28097, in care of Tanya N. Oesterreich, Oesterreich Law PLLC, at PO Box 2067, Concord, North Carolina 28026, on or before the 20th day of November, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said ESTATE OF DONNA ROSE SMART HUNEYCUTT will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 20th day of August, 2025.

RICHARD LEON HUNEYCUTT, Executor ESTATE OF DONNA ROSE SMART HUNEYCUTT PO Box 56 Locust, NC 28097 c/o Tanya N. Oesterreich, Esq. Oesterreich Law PLLC PO Box 2067 Concord, North Carolina 28026

Having quali ed as Ancillary Administrator of the Estate of Lee Ernest Eiss deceased in Stanly County, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly veri ed, to the undersigned at 8013 Ladys Secret Drive, Indian Trail, NC 28079 on or before the 20th day of November, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned. This the 20 th day of August, 2025. Dianne Hope Eiss, Executor File #25-E-187

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000456-830

Having quali ed as Executrix of the estate of Louvine M. Bowers a/k/a Louvine Morton Bowers, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina. This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Louvine M. Bowers a/k/a Louvine Morton Bowers to present them to the undersigned on or before November 20, 2025, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 20th day of August, 2025 Lisa Renee Bowers Casey 24325 Old Aquadale Road Albemarle, NC 28001

NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Co-Administrators of the Estate of Nila Lyn Elliott late of Stanly County, North Carolina, hereby noti es to all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before November 20, 2025, 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. This, the 20th day of August, 2025. Ashley Grace Elliott Co-Administrator 102 Windmill Road Salisbury, North Carolina 28147 Alyvia Maurine Elliott Co-Administrator 208 Dauntly Street Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 Emily G. Thompson, Esq. Attorney for Co-Administrators Reed & Thompson, PLLC 204 Branchview Dr SE

NOTICE NORTH

‘Only Murders in the Building’ returns, Charlie Sheen doc, ‘The Girlfriend’ thrills

Ed Sheeran drops “Play” on Friday

The Associated Press

“ONLY MURDERS in the Building” returning for its fth season and Ed Sheeran coming back with the new pop album “Play” 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: The Net ix two-part documentary “AKA Charlie Sheen” chronicles the 60-year-old star’s up-anddown career, Robin Wright and Olivia Cooke star in a psychological thriller for Prime Video called “The Girlfriend” and R&B giant Ty Dolla $ign o ers his rst full-length album in half a decade.

MOVIES TO STREAM

The Net ix two-part documentary “AKA Charlie Sheen” chronicles the 60-year-old star’s up-and-down career, from “Wall Street” to “winning.” The lm, now available on the streaming service, features candid interviews with Sheen, along with many friends and co-stars. Andrew Renzi (“Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?”) directs.

Clouds of IED smoke and cries of agony ll Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza’s harrowing lm, “Warfare” (HBO Max on Friday) with little but the faces of its Navy SEALs to ground the nearly real-time, based- on-a-true-story dramatization. The movie e ectively embeds viewers on a seemingly minor mission in Iraq

NOTICES

in 2006. In her review, AP reviewer Lindsey Bahr wrote: “War-movie cliches have been rigorously rooted out of ‘Warfare,’ a terse and chillingly brutal immersion in a moment of the Iraq War.” Andrew Ahn’s “The Wedding Banquet” (now on Paramount+) joyfully remakes and updates Ang Lee’s 1993 queer landmark lm. Ahn’s movie, starring Kelly Marie Tran, Lily Gladstone, Bowen Yang and Han Gi-chan, rebuilds Lee’s queer comedy of errors for a new generation. In her review, AP’s Lindsey Bahr praised the supporting performances by Youn Yuh-jung and Joan Chen but wished the lm expressed more fun: “There’s a through-line about found families, but I’m not totally convinced that these people are great for each other.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Sheeran returns with a new album on Friday, his eighth. titled “Play.” The release detours away from the acoustic introspection of his last release, 2023’s “Autumn Variations,” and instead o ers a kind of reserved pop music. “Azizam,” a Farsi word which translates to something approximating “my dear one,” is a cultural crossover hit; “A Little More” has a much-needed groove. It’s clear Sheeran is in it for a good time — and his loyal listeners will follow suit.

Little has been made apparent about the highly anticipated, fourth studio album from R&B giant Ty Dolla $ign. Here’s what we do know: It’s his rst full-length in half a decade, it arrives Friday, and

the lead single, the infatuated “ALL IN,” includes an inspired sample of Wayne Wonder’s “No Letting Go.” It might be the end of summer, but that song is evidence that Ty is bringing the heat.

SERIES TO STREAM

“Only Murders in the Building” returns for its fth season on Hulu. The amateur sleuths Charles (Steve Martin), Mabel (Selena Gomez), and Oliver (Martin Short) begin the new episodes trying to gure out who murdered the doorman of their building.

Wright and Cooke star in a new psychological thriller for Prime Video called “The Girlfriend.” Wright plays Laura, a very, very protective mother of her grown man son, Danny. Her

for

“War-movie cliches have been rigorously rooted out of ‘Warfare,’ a terse and chillingly brutal immersion in a moment of the Iraq War.”

Lindsey Bahr, AP lm writer

internal alarm goes o when she meets Danny’s new girlfriend Cherry, played by Cooke. Cherry is a streetwise realtor who does not meet Laura’s standards for her son. Make no mistake, both women are unhinged. Each episode shows Laura and Cherry’s perspective, which is fun.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Last year’s “Borderlands” movie bombed, but you can’t keep a popular franchise down. So Gearbox Software and 2K Games have returned with Borderlands 4, bringing its brash brand of comic violence back to where it belongs: your game console. It’s the apotheosis of the so - called “looter-shooter,” in which you shoot a lot of enemies and collect a lot of loot. In this chapter, you’ve landed on a prison planet ruled by a tyrant known as the Timekeeper. You must decide which rebel faction to join as well as which of the Timekeeper’s lieutenants you want to take down rst. You can play solo or join forces with up to three other Vault Hunters. Fight the power beginning Friday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC.