VOLUME 146 ISSUE 43 | WEEKEND EDITION, MAY 30 – 31, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM
SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 704-982-2121
Stanly NewS Journal THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
MY DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR STANLY NEWS JOURNAL
Dam good fishing A great blue heron stakes out the edge of the railroad bridge below the Tillery Hydroelectric Development, where churning tailwater on the Pee Dee River makes for easy pickings.
WHAT’S HAPPENING US and Iranian negotiators reach tentative deal to extend ceasefire and launch nuclear talks Washington, D.C. U.S. and Iranian negotiators have reached a tentative agreement to extend the ceasefire by 60 days and launch talks on Iran’s nuclear program. That’s according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter. The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity, said President Donald Trump still needs to sign off on the emerging memorandum of understanding. Iran did not immediately confirm any deal with the United States.
Key inflation gauge worsens as Americans’ income and spending power erodes Washington, D.C. A key inflation gauge accelerated in April to the highest level in three years, the latest sign that spiking gas prices and higher food costs are squeezing Americans’ finances. Inflation jumped to 3.8% in April compared with a year ago, the Commerce Department said Thursday, up from 3.5% in March and the highest since May 2023. On a monthly basis, prices rose 0.4%, down from the 0.7% rise in March. The report showed that prices have risen for many items in addition to gas, a sign inflation could persist and pose problems for congressional Republicans in this year’s midterm elections.
$2.00
Misenheimer extends search for village manager Applications are open through June 3 By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal
COURTESY VILLAGE OF MISENHEIMER
Misenheimer has extended its village managerial application deadline to June 3.
MISENHEIMER — Misenheimer has extended its search for a new village manager as Anita Blair, the town’s longtime administrator and clerk, prepares to retire later this summer. Blair’s retirement is effective Aug. 1, ending a decade of service with the village. The Misenheimer Village Council, working with the Centralina Regional Council, has extended the application period for Blair’s replacement from
Uwharrie Players to stage first Reader’s Theatre production Free performance is set for Sunday at Uwharrie Brewing By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The Uwharrie Players will take a different approach to community theater this weekend with a one-time reading of Neil Simon’s romantic comedy “Barefoot in the Park.” Set for 3 p.m. on Sunday at Uwharrie Brewing in Albemarle, the performance will mark the Stanly County theater group’s first production under the Uwharrie Reader’s
Theatre banner. Admission is free, though donations will be accepted. Directed by James Cotton, the production marks the launch of a program designed to give both newcomers and longtime performers another way to take part in local theater. “The Uwharrie Reader’s Theatre is The Uwharrie Players’ new program to give an easy way for new people to get involved, but also a fun way for regular members to get another way to perform,” Uwharrie Players said in a statement. Unlike a full stage producSee PRODUCTION, page A6
“We can’t wait to share this hilarious journey with you.” Uwharrie Players
its original May 15 deadline to June 3. Blair joined the village in March 2016 as administrator/ clerk, becoming village manager in January 2025 after Misenheimer amended its charter to adopt the council-manager form of government. In that role, Blair serves as Misenheimer’s chief administrator, carrying out the directives of the Village Council, managing finances and the budget, and overseeing day-today operations. Her duties also include administrative, managerial and supervisory responsibilities for the village’s departments under North Carolina law. Mayor Michael Herron said Blair’s service has left a lasting mark on the community. “The village is grateful to Manager Blair for her years of service and dedication,” Herron said. “She cares deeply for the community and brings a See MANAGER, page A8