Stanly News Journal Vol. 146, Issue 54 by North State Journal

VOLUME 146 ISSUE 54 | WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Democrats’ narrow path to Senate majority gets rockier as Platner faces sexual assault allegation A new accusation that Graham Platner once sexually assaulted a woman he was dating has rocked the U.S. Senate race in Maine and cast fresh doubt on Democrats’ path to a Senate majority. Republicans currently have a 53-47 advantage in the Senate, and Maine has been viewed as a necessary win for Democrats to gain the minimum net of four new Senate seats. But now there’s a question of whether Platner will even remain on the ballot and, if he does, whether he can defeat five-term Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

NATO unveils billions in arms deals to prove its firepower as Trump demands Greenland Ankara, Turkey President Donald Trump insists the United States should control Greenland instead of Denmark, renewing tensions in Europe at a NATO summit. Trump spoke during a meeting with the summit host, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. Trump also announced the U.S. will lift sanctions on Turkey that were imposed after Ankara bought a Russian missile defense system. This decision could ease Turkey’s re-entry into the U.S. F-35 fighter jet program. NATO is showcasing military projects worth billions, aiming to satisfy Trump. Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged NATO to allow Ukraine to join the alliance.

French court clears way for far-right leader Le Pen to run in 2027 Paris A Paris appeals court has cleared the way for far-right leader Marine Le Pen to possibly run for the French presidency next year. However, she must wear an electronic monitor, which she has said is a no-go. The court found Le Pen guilty of embezzlement but softened the ban on her seeking elected office. Her prison sentence is now three years, with two suspended. The court’s notes on the verdict pointed out the “principle of freedom to stand for election.” Le Pen is expected to share her thoughts in a television interview later Tuesday.

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Independ-ice day Red, white and blue snow cones were a popular accessory for attendees at Badin Inn’s Fourth of July party on Saturday. For more photos, turn to page A5.

Yadkin Riverkeeper details expanded role in Stanly County The water advocacy group outlines new coverage areas By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The Stanly County Board of Commissioners received an update Monday night on the Yad-

kin Riverkeeper’s work in the county and its plans to expand its coverage area in the region. In a slideshow presentation, Edgar Miller, executive director of the nonprofit organization, explained its current priorities, including drinking water protection, environmental cleanup efforts in Badin, lake levels, land conservation and recreational use along the

are proposing to expand our Yadkin River system. “Stanly County is an import- jurisdiction to cover southern ant community for us along the Stanly County.” Yadkin Riverkeeper was Yadkin River, and I’m here today primarily to thank the founded in 2008 by the Friends county for supporting our ef- of the Yadkin Pee Dee and forts,” Miller said. “County is affiliated with the WaterManager Andy Lucas has pro- keeper Alliance, Waterkeepers vided a letter of support to help Carolina, the N.C. Conservaus expand our jurisdiction. We tion Network, the Great Trails are part of the international Waterkeeper Alliance, and we See YADKIN, page A2

SCS hires elementary education and federal programs director “I look forward to creating ripples that reach every student by supporting the educators and leaders who make a difference every day.” Jolene Graham

School district announces new director By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Stanly County Schools has added another member to its leadership team. The district announced in a June 30 news release that Jolene Graham has been hired as its new director of elementary education and federal programs, a position within the curriculum and

instruction department. “Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Graham to her new leadership role,” SCS said in a statement. “Her passion for supporting educators and improving student outcomes has been evident in every role she has held. We look forward to the positive impact she will make as she continues to support our students, staff, and school communities.” In the role, Graham will help oversee elementary education programs while also See SCS, page A4

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inside A 2,200-pound seal named Neil has become a social media sensation — and a bit of a local menace in Tasmania. For more, turn to page A4.

SAM VOLKER PHOTOGRAPHY VIA AP

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

WEDNESDAY

7.8.26 #125

NATO chief demands allies STANLY present credible plans to reach happening defense spending targets Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County:

As the U.S. draws down its security role, NATO allies face new spending expectations

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 518620) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend Publisher Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette Senior Editor Jordan Golson Local News Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Jesse Deal Reporter PJ Ward-Brown Photographer ADVERTISING Kateland Treece Advertising Representative Published Wednesday and Sunday as part of North State Journal 1548 NC 24-27 BYP W Albemarle NC 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE OR PLACE LEGAL NOTICE:

By Lorne Cook and Suzan Fraser The Associated Press ANKARA, Turkey — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Monday demanded that the allies put forward “clear, concrete and credible plans” to reach the organization’s spending targets at its annual summit in Ankara. Rutte made the remarks in the Turkish capital ahead of a two-day summit starting on Tuesday that comes at a crucial time for the alliance with the United States scaling down its security role in Europe. Washington has been pressing allies to shoulder more of the spending burden. The 32 nations agreed last year to invest 5% of their gross domestic product on defense — 3.5% on their defense budgets and 1.5% on roads, bridges and ports so troops and equipment can

“President Trump fully expects that all allies will step up immediately and get on the path to 5% and do it with urgency.” Matthew Whitaker, U.S. Ambassador to NATO move faster in conflict. Spain endorsed the goal but said that it could fulfill NATO’s security requirements without spending so much. Some countries are still struggling to meet the alliance’s old target of 2% of GDP. Asked what would happen to allies that don’t have a clear plan, Rutte said: “If one or two still have to be convinced, we have ways to do that.” He did not elaborate. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker suggested last week that the United States does have something in store for those who do not step up, but he declined to say what that might be.

“President Trump fully expects that all allies will step up immediately and get on the path to 5% and do it with urgency,” he said. On spending among European allies and Canada, Rutte said that “the evidence we see so far is impressive.” He said that NATO estimates that they will invest a combined $258 billion more in defense in 2025 and this year than they have in previous years. But the numbers might not be enough to satisfy the Trump administration. Trump has repeatedly lashed U.S. allies over defense spending, and in the past threatened not to come to the defense of any member not doing enough. Trump has called for “loyalty” from NATO allies, after some of them declined to allow the use of their bases in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. “We need our allies in NATO to step up and assume leadership roles, and I mean that not only in sort of loud cheerleading but also the moral authority and the moral compass of the alliance,” Whitaker said last week.

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Edgar Miller, executive director of Yadkin Riverkeeper, gives a presentation to the Stanly County Board of Commissioners on Monday night. tion, maintaining Badin Lake levels and promoting recreation as additional local priorities. Miller said nutrient and sediment pollution remain a concern across the watershed, particularly because of algal blooms in area lakes. “Overall, as far as the watershed is concerned, we’re working hard to reduce nutrient and sediment pollution that causes algal blooms that have been particularly bad at

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Tuckertown.” Yadkin Riverkeeper is also promoting recreational use of the area’s waterways, including boating, swimming, fishing and the 163-mile Yadkin River State Trail, which begins at Morrow Mountain State Park. The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting on Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

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YADKIN from page A1 State Coalition and Piedmont Promise. The organization’s current coverage already includes Albemarle and parts of Stanly County along the Yadkin River, but the proposed 2026 jurisdiction expansion would add about 1,180 square miles to its coverage area. Locally, that would include the northern portion of the Rocky River watershed, while the Catawba Riverkeeper would take the Rocky River watershed in Union County. Miller said the organization’s Stanly County priorities begin with protecting the county’s drinking water supply. “We’ve long been involved with the cleanup of the Alcoa Badin Business Park in Badin,” Miller said. “Obviously, we’re concerned about Alcoa potentially selling land in Tuckertown for development purposes, so we have some thoughts about that.” The organization’s presentation listed hazardous waste cleanup at the Alcoa Badin Business Park, Tuckertown land conservation, reduced nutrient and sediment pollu-

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | MARC DION

The fall of Vicksburg

That’s all the celebrating and decorating we’ll do because America is too sad this year, and the future is too frightening.

WHEN I WAS 19, I knew a much older man who’d grown up in 1930s Alabama. “We didn’t celebrate the Fourth of July,” he told me. “For us, it was the day Vicksburg fell.” Vicksburg, Mississippi, fell to Union troops on July 4, 1863. The Confederates surrendered, as was their habit. Long memories still mourn the Lost Cause of Black backs whipped bloody. So how am I, a resident of Rhode Island, supposed to celebrate the Fourth of July this year? When I was maybe 8 years old, fireworks were illegal in Massachusetts, but my father, a bartender who invariably “knew a guy,” brought home a box of sparklers for me. The sparkler is the lowest form of firework. It doesn’t blow up, it doesn’t make a loud noise and it doesn’t go up in the air. It’s a long wire, the top half of which is coated with some sort of chemical mix that throws off showers of silver sparks when it’s lit. You hold the sparkler by the uncoated bottom half. Those kids who hold the sparkler by the burning top half don’t do it for long. I would use the sparklers on the top step of the three steps that went down from the kitchen door of our rented house in Taunton, Massachusetts, under the supervision of my father. I remember the metallic brightness of the sparks against the dark sky, and my father’s deep voice. “Be careful,” he’d say. “Don’t hold it too

close to you.” I’ve always held things too close, and that’s true of both my memories and America. I don’t hate America. I love America. What I hate is our gradual weakening, our string of lost or inconclusive wars, our blustering, Jesus-pimping leadership. We crow endlessly about this being “the greatest country in the world,” but the highway bridges are rotting, we don’t have enough technical skill to reline a pool and we’re pushing hard to regain the use of every vile term we’ve ever used to describe nonwhites and women. “If you don’t like it here, why don’t you move to Iran?” I’m asked. I can’t. I can’t go anywhere else. My ethnic heritage is so jumbled that I can only call this country my own because America is where they made a new people from French and Irish and Scottish and English, which is what I am “by blood” if you think blood sings in different languages. Maybe two miles from our house, my uncle Kendall’s name is engraved on the town honor roll. He served in World War II and the Korean War. The honor roll is granite, and it’s dead. Kendall is dead. When he came back from his wars, he pumped gas for the rest of his working life. I’ve touched his name where it’s cut into the stone. It’s not as though there are no Fourth of July celebrations taking place near me, either. The worse the country gets, the bigger and

tackier the patriotic celebrations get. If we fight a draw with Iran, next Fourth of July, there will be a pro wrestling show at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The flags keep getting bigger, too. In my neighborhood, there are people flying flags bigger than the one they fly outside the post office. Rhode Island opted out of the Great American State Fair, as did most of the American population. Not even a speech from our rapidly failing president could save that disaster. My wife Deborah was in charge of our yard decorations for the Fourth of July. She put out a flowered flag with a peace sign in the middle. It’s a small flag, close to the ground, and it flutters from a small iron stake driven into the lawn. It probably stands two feet high, and on either side, there are small American flags on skinny sticks. It’s a modest display, is what it is, a little splash of peace and patriotism next to the rhododendron bush. I’m already starting to feel protective of the little display. I don’t want it to feel bullied by the big flags that have their own tall poles. That’s all the celebrating and decorating we’ll do because America is too sad this year, and the future is too frightening. Dion’s latest book, a collection of his best columns, is called “Mean Old Liberal.” (Copyright 2026 creators.com)

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

The United States has always been at war

Centuries before the modern state of Israel existed or any American military interventions in the Middle East, Jefferson was confronted with Islamic supremacy.

ONE OF THE MOST popular complaints of the younger Americans is that the United States has been bogged down in endless war and interventionism virtually their entire lifetimes. Welcome to history. As much as we may not like it, the United States has engaged in conflict and meddling more or less since its inception. The U.S. was born in war. It expanded through war. It freed its slaves through war. It grew into a superpower through war. And until utopia exists, it’s exceedingly likely we will need to clash with those who threaten our prestige and power. Indeed, you can look at the parallels between today’s war against the Iranian terrorist regime and our very first foreign conflict to understand why. From the founding, the Islamic states in Algiers, Tripoli and Tunis in North Africa were capturing American ships, demanding tolls and taking hostages. Without the protection of the British Royal Navy, President George Washington felt compelled to pay off the emirs. President John Adams was even more susceptible to blackmail, appeasing the Islamic rulers with ships, weaponry, ammunition and annual sums — let’s call them “pallets” — of gold and silver. The Barbary States took the bounty, strung the U.S. along in negotiations, ultimately ignored the treaties they did sign and continued to take captives, murder Americans and disrupt trade. After winning the White House in 1801, Thomas Jefferson halted the payoffs. His justifications for fighting the Barbary “pirates” — a historical mischaracterization that understates the importance of the Islamic sultans who had been raiding coastal towns and ships in the Mediterranean and Atlantic for two centuries, grabbing over a million

European slaves — were more than just narrow trading interests. When serving as ambassador in Britain in 1785, Jefferson had met with Tripoli’s representative Abdul Rahman Adja and asked him why the Barbary States were targeting Americans who had shown them no hostility. Jefferson, in a letter co-written by Adams, described Adja’s response in a letter to John Jay. “The Ambassador answered us that it was founded on the Laws of their Prophet, that it was written in their Koran, that all nations who should not have acknowledged their authority were sinners, that it was their right and duty to make war upon them wherever they could be found, and to make slaves of all they could take as Prisoners, and that every Mussulman (Muslim) who should be slain in battle was sure to go to Paradise,” Jefferson wrote. Sounds familiar. Centuries before the modern state of Israel existed or any American military interventions in the Middle East, Jefferson was confronted with Islamic supremacy. Paying tributes to these “barbarians,” Jefferson later argued, not only rewarded aggression and subverted America’s standing but was in direct conflict with the ideals of the new nation. When Jefferson congratulated the Marines on their victory against the Algerians, it wasn’t merely for valiantly fighting the enemy but defeating those who “trample on the sacred faith of treaties, on the rights and laws of human nature.” President James Madison also sent another naval force to Algiers in 1815 to subdue the Islamic corsairs. Yet, in the imagination of contemporary isolationists, early American foreign entanglements were only taken on for immediate national interests, stripped of any idealism. This simply isn’t so.

And every subsequent generation saw war, as well. Initially, these were conflicts of Western expansion. Soon we were involved in conflicts around the world. The Left and isolationist Right are perturbed by our interference with Venezuelan and Cuban sovereignty. But American history is littered with instances of us meddling in places including Haiti, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Panama, El Salvador and Cuba, again, to name a few. “Gunboat diplomacy” was not predominantly deployed to uphold the Monroe Doctrine and eject European powers from the Western Hemisphere, but rather to intimidate and quash domestic movements that threatened American influence. By 1852, President Millard Fillmore famously dispatched Commodore Matthew Perry to Japan to end that nation’s isolationist policies and open trade by force, if needed. President Ulysses Grant sent another military expedition to Korea in 1871 to do the same. President Grover Cleveland sent the Navy to Samoa to protect American commercial interests from the Germans and British. None of those nations threatened American sovereignty. Some of these conflicts were more moral than others. Some backfired. Some were unnecessary tragedies. Some made the world safer. The U.S. has kept Europe free of allencompassing war since 1945. Neither war nor intervention should ever be taken on lightly. The notion, however, that Americans are living through some uniquely bellicose or interventionist era is debunked by even a cursory reading of history. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 creators.com)

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Australian officials ask fans to respect the privacy of Neil, a 1-ton seal who respects nothing Juvenile experimentation explains Neil’s antics, but his viral fame poses a real threat to his well-being By Charlotte Graham-McLay The Associated Press WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Like plenty of local boys before him, Neil has come home to the stretch of Australian coast where he was born. Unlike most of them, he trails fame, fans and property damage in his wake. He is also a 2,200 pound elephant seal. In June, the bellowing and blubbery 5-year-old mammal hauled himself onto land for his twice-yearly tour of beachside towns in southern Tasmania state after months of feeding at sea. That’s posing problems now that he weighs as much as a small car and has a social media following more than double Tasmania’s human population. His rampage through local infrastructure has claimed bent traffic bollards, a sign warning the public about seals and a fence that did not survive Neil’s attempt to vault it. The rest of the time he lies placidly any place he likes, which is sometimes the middle of the road, bringing towns he visits to a standstill. But officials say their biggest concern is that Neil’s popularity could lead to ill-advised human-seal encounters that are dangerous for both sides. Neil is a bad boy with a long rap sheet Neil, the only male elephant seal to visit Tasmania in years, has commanded an enthralled TikTok following of 1.4 million in part because he acts like kind of a jerk. During this visit to shore, his 12th, his crimes have included picking fights with parked cars and smashing through barriers erected to keep him off roads. Those antics have prompted some online to hail Neil as a kind of anti-authoritarian hero. But experts say it’s normal experimentation for a growing seal. Juvenile male elephant seals need to practice for dominance

SAM VOLKER PHOTOGRAPHY VIA AP

Neil the Seal, a 2,200 pound elephant seal, nuzzles up to bollards he has damaged in Tasmania, Australia, last month. battles in which adults rear up and crash their chests together as they compete for breeding opportunities, said Sophia Volzke, an elephant seal scientist based at the University of Tasmania in Hobart. With no other juveniles to practice with, Neil can only rehearse on Toyotas. Officials plead for fans to leave Neil alone Local officials fear that Neil is the latest wild animal whose social media stardom has outgrown what’s good for him. “Neil’s fame is a bit of a double-edged sword,” said Kris Carlyon from Tasmania’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment, at a news conference in Hobart on Thursday in which he asked the seal’s fans to give him privacy. “We have had some pretty silly behavior, instances with people carrying their small babies up close to him and simply

SCS from page A1

COURTESY STANLY COUNTY SCHOOLS

Jolene Graham

managing federal program responsibilities for the district. She brings 19 years of experience in education, including work in literacy instruction, instructional leadership and school improvement. Her career has included work as an elementary classroom teacher, reading design coach and early literacy specialist, and she has presented at state and regional conferences on early literacy practices. “I look forward to creating ripples that reach every student by supporting the

It’s usual for seals to return biannually to the place they were born to rest, fast and shed fur. Many species roam inland during visits to shore,

sometimes leading them into beachside towns. What’s unusual about Neil is that he’s the only male elephant seal hauling ashore in Tasmania. Sub-Antarctic islands south of Tasmania are home to breeding populations of elephant seals and Neil’s mother would have arrived from one of them to give birth, Volzke said. Females have been spotted ashore in Tasmania before, but topping out at the size Neil reached when he was a year or two old, they don’t cause the same kind of chaos, she added. “Humans got rid of those animals and now maybe they are coming back and repopulating areas that they were previously seen in,” she said. “We do need to find a way to coexist.” That could prove tricky for Neil, and for the rangers, police officers and security guards who follow in his wake. If he survives to adulthood, Neil could measure up to 5 meters (16 feet) in

length and weigh triple what he does now. However, about 90% of male elephant seals die before they reach a breeding age of around 10, Volzke said. For now, Neil the seal is occupying a stretch of sidewalk, unmoving and unbothered. Sometimes he canoodles with an orange traffic cone, to the delight of his online followers. It isn’t clear why he prefers that location, which he has returned to even after being ushered away by rangers. “He’s obviously decided this puddle surrounded by bollards, which are horizontal at the moment, is his spot,” said Carlyon on Thursday. His fans can relate. The locals have mixed feelings. “He’s one of our biggest exports at the moment,” said Dale Creamer, a resident of the town that the seal is currently trashing, who has not been personally inconvenienced. “It’s Neil’s world and we’re just living in it.”

educators and leaders who make a difference every day,” Graham said. Reporting to Chief Academic Officer Lynn Plummer, Graham will support the district’s work in foundational skills, reading, math and writing while assisting principals and teachers through professional learning and instructional planning. The district said she will also help align academic initiatives, use data to support student achievement and oversee supplemental funding provided under the federal Every Student Succeeds Act.

Much of that funding is intended to help schools provide students with access to a high-quality education. Graham will serve as the district’s federal programs administrator, helping support budgets, plans and implementation tied to federal Title funding. She will also collaborate with the curriculum and instruction department to support school administrators, curriculum coaches, academically or intellectually gifted teachers and English as a Second Language teachers. During her career, Graham has led district literacy initia-

tives, supported Multi-Tiered System of Supports implementation and provided professional learning for teachers, instructional coaches and administrators. Additionally, she has collaborated with school leaders to improve classroom instruction and student outcomes. Originally from Alden, New York, Graham holds bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education and childhood education, along with a master’s degree in reading for grades K-12. SCS has a full list of its latest leadership hires available online at stanlycountyschools.org.

trying to get that shot for Instagram,” he said. Officials have urged the public to refrain from identifying the town Neil is currently delighting or terrorizing, depending on who you speak to. They fear a disastrous encounter between the seal and an admirer could force rangers into a risky operation to move him elsewhere. Carlyon also warned of worse. In a 2023 episode, a walrus known as Freya who drew huge crowds in Norway was euthanized after officials cited a growing risk to human safety. “There is a risk here of essentially loving Neil to death,” Carlyon said. Neil’s problems will get bigger as he does

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Badin celebrates Fourth of July Celebrations were held across America and Stanly County on Saturday for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, including at the Badin Inn and the famous Oakboro Fourth of July parade. PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

PHOTOS BY EMELIA IRELAND FOR STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

OBITUARIES

Sylvia Morrow Glenn Jan. 14, 1934 – July 4, 2026 Sylvia Morrow Glenn, 92, beloved wife of Chalmers Lanier Glenn III, passed away peacefully and entered eternity on July 4th, 2026. Born January 14th, 1934 in Albemarle, NC, she was the daughter of David McKnight and Bertha Nemon Morrow. Sylvia graduated with honors from Albemarle High School in 1952 and Peace College in 1954. She was a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church in Albemarle. Sylvia married the love of her life on June 12th, 1954 and recently celebrated 72 years of marriage. Sylvia was the steadfast foundation of her family. As a devoted corporate wife, she embraced each new chapter with grace, supporting frequent relocations without complaint and creating warm, loving homes in Ohio, Tennessee, South Carolina, and multiple locations throughout North Carolina. She was the quiet strength behind her family’s success, never seeking recognition for the many sacrifices she made or the

Cynthia Little Collins May 19, 1966 – July 6, 2026 Cynthia Little Collins, 60, of Florence, South Carolina, formerly of Albemarle, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. A funeral service to celebrate Cynthia’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026 with Pastor Jeremy Blake officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., prior to the service. Born on May 19, 1966, in Stanly County, Cynthia was the beloved daughter of the late Dwight and Betty Little. Cynthia is lovingly survived by her devoted husband of 30

countless ways she enriched the lives of those she loved. Known for her gentle spirit, humble nature, and unwavering kindness, Sylvia touched everyone she met with her warm smile and contagious laugh. She was deeply admired for her calm presence, compassionate heart, and ability to make others feel welcome and loved. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Sylvia leaves behind a lasting legacy for future generations. Sylvia was a bonafide lifelong Tar Heel fan. From women’s soccer to men’s basketball and every sport in between, she was always ready to cheer on her team. In keeping with her demeanor, she never took the outcome too seriously. Regardless of the score, she never stopped cheering with everything she had. In addition to her parents, Sylvia was preceded in death by her daughter, Stephanie Morrow Glenn MD and her sister, Jean Morrow Allred. Sylvia is survived by her loving husband “Cham”; son Chalmers Lanier Glenn IV (Robin); three grandchildren, Jennifer Glenn Davis (Drew), Mckenzie Glenn Parker (Landon), and Joshua McKnight Glenn (Katie); and five greatgrandchildren, Grayson Davis, Lainey and Brody Parker, and Jackson and Evie Glenn. A graveside service was held Thursday, July 9th at 11:00 at the Salem Cemetery in Winston Salem, NC. Memorials may be sent to Friends of Morrow Mountain, PO Box 306, Badin, NC 28009. Salem Funeral and Cremation Services, 120 South Main St, Winston Salem, NC, is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.

years, Jay Collins. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins who will cherish her memory and the time they shared with her. A lifelong learner with a creative spirit, Cynthia earned her undergraduate degree from Appalachian State University before receiving her master’s degree from the University of South Carolina. She had a passion for crafting, especially scrapbooking, and found great joy in preserving memories for those she loved. An avid reader, Cynthia also faithfully supported Appalachian football and took great pride in her alma mater. She shared a special bond with her beloved feline companions, who brought her much comfort and happiness throughout the years. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Ellen and Jason Drucker for the exceptional care, unwavering support, and genuine compassion they showed Cynthia throughout her declining health. Their kindness and friendship will always be remembered with deep gratitude. Though Cynthia’s earthly journey has come to an end, the love she shared, the memories she preserved, and the kindness she extended to others will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

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

IN MEMORY

ALICE MARIE ROTHE OCT. 21, 1937 – JULY 3, 2026 Alice Marie Rothe, age 88, of New London, NC, passed away very peacefully on July 3, 2026, at Trinity Place Nursing Home in Albemarle, NC. She was provided a very kind and moving transport by Tillery Compassionate Care and the staff at Trinity Place as she exited the facility. Alice was born on October 21, 1937, to Fred and Emma Stevens of Redding, CT, where the family operated a large farm stand. She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Frederick Allan Rothe; her brother, Fred Stevens; her grandson, Lucas Thompson; and one step-grandson, Michael Clough. She is survived by two daughters, Debra Clough - husband Dale, Anna Walker - husband Nelson, and son Frank Rothe - wife Theresa, 5 grandsons and their wives, 2 step-grandchildren, 10 greatgrandchildren, 5 step great-grandchildren, 1 step great-great-grandchild, sister Emma Lynch and brother-in - law Richard Rothe as well as several nieces and nephews. Alice was a long-time member of Salem Global Methodist Church, where she was a member of the Ladies Circle and Ladies Sunday School class. She also performed volunteer services at Tillery Compassionate Care. Alice had a long career in food service with 20 years as Director of Food Service at Monroe Consolidated School in Monroe, NH and several years in food service at Stonewall Jackson School and Stanly Memorial Hospital. Alice loved reading and gardening and spending time with her family, with a special love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her name can be made to Tillery Compassionate Care 960 N. First Street, Albemarle, NC 28001. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Trinity Place as well as the amazing nurses from Tillery Compassionate Care for their loving care both physically and spiritually for Alice and her family. She loved them all very much and considered them extended family. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 26 at 2 p.m. in the sanctuary at Salem and a graveside service will be held at a later date in Monroe, NH.

David Clayton-Thomas, powerhouse lead singer of Blood, Sweat & Tears, dies at 84 The former street fighter and petty thief became a Grammy-winning rock superstar By Hillel Italie The Associated Press NEW YORK — David Clayton-Thomas, the lead singer of Blood, Sweat & Tears, whose husky, high-strung tenor on “Spinning Wheel,” “And When I Die” and other hits helped make the so-called “brass rock” band among the most popular acts of the late 1960s, has died at age 84. Spokesperson Eric Alper said that Clayton-Thomas died “peacefully” Wednesday at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. Alper did not cite a specific cause. Clayton-Thomas was a onetime street fighter and petty thief from Canada who briefly became a rock superstar, the front man of a nine-member group that sold millions of records and won two Grammys for “Blood, Sweat & Tears,” which beat out the Beatles’ “Abbey Road” for best album of 1969. Calling out amid a jazzy parade of horns, keyboards and percussion, Clayton-Thomas’ urgent shout was a signature voice of the era, preaching love on the Motown cover “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” a lasting legacy on Laura Nyro’s “And When I Die” and a cool head on his own “Spinning Wheel.” Meanwhile, Blood, Sweat & Tears helped inspire a wave of hornled bands, among them Chicago, the Electric Flag and Ten Wheel Drive. “A lot of the guys (in Blood, Sweat & Tears) would play a Broadway show matinee, then go up to Harlem and play Latin music or R&B and funk at night, or come down to the Village and play pure jazz the next night,” Clayton-Thomas told bestclassicbands.com in 2023. “I was just a blues player: give me three chords and I’ve got a song.” At its peak, Blood, Sweat & Tears’ appeal was so broad it helped lead to the band’s downfall. Hip enough to perform at the 1969 Woodstock festival, where they were among the highest paid acts, they also were known enough to the establishment to tour Eastern Europe the following year on behalf of the State Department. When Clayton-Thomas and other band members denounced the Communist regimes on the other side of the Cold War, Rolling Stone’s David Felton wrote that “the State Department got its money worth.” Yippies would turn up at a 1970 Blood, Sweat & Tears

“I was just a blues player: give me three chords and I’ve got a song.” David Clayton-Thomas show at Madison Square Garden, carrying obscene banners outside and dumping manure by the front gate. The band had practical reasons for going along with the government: Clayton-Thomas, who had allegedly wielded a gun at his girlfriend, had been denied a green card and faced deportation. But after topping the charts in 1970 with the album “Blood, Sweat & Tears 3,” their appeal soon faded. A burned out Clayton-Thomas left the group in 1972, and neither he nor the remaining musicians ever regained their old stature. Blood, Sweat & Tears would continue recording over the next few years, and even briefly reunited with Clayton-Thomas, who went on to release more than a dozen solo albums and tour on his own for decades. Clayton-Thomas was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1996. “Spinning Wheel,” covered by everyone from James Brown to TV star Barbara Eden, was voted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame a decade later. Clayton-Thomas is survived by his daughters, Ashleigh Clayton-Thomas and Christine Graham. Up from the streets Born David Henry Thomsett in Surrey, England, and raised near Toronto and Ottawa, he was the son of a Canadian World War II veteran and of a pianist-entertainer who helped inspire her son’s interest in music. Thomsett was lucky to have the chance. He fought violently with his father, was living in the streets by his mid-teens and by age 20 was serving time in a reformatory for vagrancy, assault and other crimes. An old guitar, left behind by a fellow inmate, changed his life. He taught himself to play and began spending extensive time in the early 1960s around Toronto’s Yonge Street music “strip,” where peers included the American rockabilly star Ronnie Hawkins, a mentor to Robbie Robertson and other future members of the Band and a guide for Thomsett early in his career. Anxious to reinvent himself, he changed his last name to Clayton-Thomas while leading

his own groups. In the mid60s, he released such albums as “Sings Like It Is” and had a hit single with the anti-war rocker “Brainwashed.” He would also befriend a rising star, Joni Mitchell, whose childlike “Circle Game” helped inspire “Spinning Wheel,” and the venerable John Lee Hooker, who would indirectly contribute to Clayton-Thomas’ breakthrough in the U.S. America beckons Hooker had encouraged Clayton-Thomas to move to New York, where the American bluesman had an engagement at the Cafe Au Go Go in Greenwich Village. When Hooker unexpectedly departed for a tour of Europe, club owner Howard Solomon needed a replacement and recruited Clayton-Thomas. “So I played him a couple songs on the guitar,” Clayton-Thomas told bestclassicbands.com. “He said, ‘Do you have a band?’ I said, ‘Sure,’ and went out into Greenwich Village looking for anybody carrying a guitar case or even looking like a musician, and we put together a little band and we opened there that night. We ended up staying there for several months.” Around the same time, session man-producer Al Kooper was looking to form a jazz-rock group and was joined by such musicians as guitarist Steve Katz, drummer Bobby Colomby and horn players Randy Brecker and Jerry Weiss. They called themselves Blood, Sweat & Tears, releasing the debut album “Child Is Father to the Man” early in 1968. Although praised by Rolling Stone publisher Jann Wenner as “a fine, exemplary group,” members were torn between those allied with Kooper and those who thought his vocals too weak to attract a substantial audience. By the end of the year, Kooper and others had departed, and the band was seeking a new singer. After Judy Collins saw Clayton-Thomas perform, she recommended him to Colomby. “I got home and just a couple of days later, Bobby Colomby called me up and said, ‘Hey, Kooper’s gone. We got four guys left out of the nine. And we still got a record contract with Columbia. Do you want to come down and try out for the band?”’ Clayton-Thomas told bestclassicbands.com. ”I said, ‘You’re damn right.’ I knew (bassist) Jim Fielder real well and I knew they were superb musicians. So I was on the next plane. We had a rehearsal that afternoon, an audition, and it was instant magic. We just knew right off the bat.”

STANLY SPORTS

AARON GASH / AP PHOTO

Cincinnati pitcher Rhett Lowder throws during a game against the Milwaukee Brewers on June 30, 2026, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Lowder shifts to Reds bullpen ahead of All-Star break Albemarle native takes on temporary relief role By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Former North Stanly pitcher Rhett Lowder is taking on a new role for the Cincinnati Reds, at least for now. The 24-year-old Albemarle native worked out of the bullpen Saturday for the first time in his major league career, throwing three scoreless innings in Cincinnati’s 8-5 home loss to the

Baltimore Orioles. Lowder, who had made 19 career MLB starts before Saturday, was shifted out of the rotation after the Reds activated Hunter Greene for his first start of the season. Cincinnati manager Terry Francona said the move is designed as a short-term adjustment to get the club through the final stretch before the All-Star break. “When we get to next Sunday, we’ll see where we’re at and map it out from there,” Francona said over the weekend. “We’re not trying to make Lowder a

“The end goal is to help this team win games.” Rhett Lowder bullpen guy. We’re trying to figure out ways to protect our staff, win games and get through this next week.” Lowder is expected to serve as a multi-inning option, giving Cincinnati length behind its starters. He could also be used in higher-leverage situations when the Reds need a right-hander.

Lowder said the role change does not alter his main objective. “It doesn’t really matter to me, I just want to help the team win and pitch as much as I can,” Lowder said. “I knew Hunter was coming back. I figured something would be done. The end goal is to help this team win games. Getting Hunter back and me providing length out of the bullpen, hopefully we can do that.” Lowder’s temporary move comes during an uneven stretch in his first full major league season.

Pfeiffer track, cross country players earn CSC Academic All-District honors Awards are based on athletic and academic achievements By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal MISENHEIMER — Seven Pfeiffer University runners were named to the 2025-26 Academic All-District Men’s and Women’s Track and Cross Country Teams, College Sports Communicators recently announced. The Falcons accounted for half of the USA South Athletic Conference’s 14 total selections, continuing a strong year for Pfeiffer’s distance programs both academically and competitively. Pfeiffer’s men’s honorees were Bricen Burleson, Sawyer Helms, Rahnier Lyons, Cannon Powell and Drake Stewart. Makayla Borst and Katelyn Lentz represented the Falcons on the women’s side. The CSC Academic All-District program recognizes student-athletes who have performed at a high level in competition while also meeting academic standards. To qualify, nominees must be at least sophomores academically

COURTESY USA SOUTH ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

Pfeiffer players made up half of the USA South’s 2025-26 Academic All-District Men’s and Women’s Teams for track and cross country. and athletically and carry a cumulative grade-point average of 3.50 or higher. Pfeiffer had five of the conference’s eight men’s selections and two of its six women’s honorees. Brevard, Meredith and Methodist also had student-athletes recognized by CSC.

Two Falcons will remain in consideration for additional national honors. Powell and Burleson were selected as CSC Academic All-America finalists and will move on to the national ballot, where CSC members will vote on first-team, second-team and third-team Academic

All-America selections. The men’s Academic All-America teams are scheduled to be announced July 14, with the women’s teams set for July 15. Powell and Burleson were part of a standout season for the Pfeiffer men’s track and field program. Powell won

The former Wake Forest standout and seventh overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft earned a rotation spot during spring training after missing the 2025 major league season with oblique and forearm injuries. He opened this year 3-1 with a 3.18 ERA through six starts before his momentum slowed in May and he sat out more time due to right shoulder discomfort. After returning from the injured list last month, Lowder has continued to search for consistency. In his last start, June 30 at Milwaukee, he struck out a career-high eight batters but allowed six runs, a career-high 11 hits and one walk in 4 2/3 innings. Through 14 appearances, including 13 starts, Lowder is 3-6 with a 5.07 ERA, 56 strikeouts and 33 walks in 65 2/3 innings.

The number of Falcons track and cross country players who are CSC Academic All-America finalists

conference championships in the 3,000-meter steeplechase and the 10,000-meter run at the USA South outdoor meet in April. Burleson was named the meet’s Track Athlete of the Meet after winning the 800-meter run and 1,500-meter run. The recognition adds to a successful year across Pfeiffer’s cross country and track programs. The Falcons’ men’s cross country team won the USA South championship, while the women’s team finished third at the conference meet. Pfeiffer’s men’s track and field team followed by sweeping the USA South indoor and outdoor titles. The Falcons’ women’s track and field team placed fourth at both the indoor and outdoor conference championships. Recognizing players in NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and NAIA, CSC has been honoring academic and athletic achievement by student-athletes throughout the landscape of college sports since 1952.

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

$1)1

SIDELINE REPORT WNBA

More than half of WNBA players miss All-Star starter vote More than half of the WNBA’s 180 players didn’t submit their ballots for All-Star starters ahead of this month’s game in Chicago, a person familiar with the balloting told The Associated Press on Friday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the voting. It’s unclear why so many players didn’t cast their votes. Fan vote accounts for 50% of the overall vote while players and a media panel each account for 25%. It’s been that way since 2017.

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Former NBA star Beasley pleads not guilty to gambling charges New York Malik Beasley’s lawyer said the indicted former NBA star “wants to move on with his life” after pleading not guilty to charges that he altered his play in certain games to enrich sports bettors and ease his own debts. Beasley, the latest big name caught up in a sweeping federal gambling investigation, attentively followed along but said little at his arraignment on Wednesday in Brooklyn federal court. He answered a judge’s questions with “yes, Your Honor” but let his lawyer, Jason Goldman, enter his plea.

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NFL player Campbell’s brother is charged with murder after mother found dead Atlanta A brother of NFL player Calais Campbell has been charged with murdering their mother in Atlanta. Police officers found her body during a welfare check. An arrest warrant says Ciarre Campbell was found with a knife. His family told police he struggled with mental illness. He’s being held in Fulton County Jail and waived his initial court appearance Wednesday. Calais Campbell, a defensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens, is entering his 19th NFL season. He’s a six-time Pro Bowl selection with 117 career sacks.

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Leonard going back to Toronto after Raptors make deal with Clippers A person with knowledge of the trade says Kawhi Leonard is headed back to the Toronto Raptors, after they struck a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers to reunite with the player who led their run to the 2019 NBA championship. The Raptors are sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, two second-round picks and a pick swap to the Clippers for Leonard.

OLYMPICS

Denmark urges IOC to recognize Greenland and Faroe Islands as independent Olympic teams Copenhagen, Denmark Denmark’s parliament asked the IOC to recognize its territories Greenland and the Faroe Islands as independent Olympic teams. The parliament published a letter urging the International Olympic Committee to recognize the semi-autonomous territories and let their athletes compete at the Olympics under their own flags. The revival of a longstanding Olympic proposal previously made 20 years ago comes as the new Danish government pledges support for Greenland, which U.S. President Donald Trump has said he wants to acquire. The IOC recognizes 206 national Olympic bodies and is unlikely to support Denmark’s request.

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Chase Briscoe (19) celebrates after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Eero 400 at Chicagoland Speedway.

Briscoe holds off Bell in NASCAR’s return to Chicagoland Speedway His sixth career win comes in NASCAR’s first race there since 2019 By Jay Cohen The Associated Press JOLIET, Ill. — Chase Briscoe was on an offseason bonding trip to the United Kingdom with crew chief James Small when the NASCAR driver discovered chocolate buttons, a popular British treat. He bought some online after he returned to the U.S., but he said it wasn’t the same. Small purchased some on a return trip to the U.K., and he promised to share if Briscoe won on the crew chief’s birthday. That made Sunday night’s victory pretty sweet. Briscoe held off Christopher Bell in NASCAR’s return to Chicagoland Speedway, racing to his first Cup Series win of the season. And Small delivered the chocolates to Briscoe moments after it was over. “They were pretty dang good,” Briscoe said. Briscoe was followed closely by Bell in the final laps on the 1.5-mile oval about 50 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. But Bell was unable to run down his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate. The 31-year-old Briscoe, an Indiana native, celebrated his sixth career win with a burnout before standing on his car and waving to the sellout crowd. “This has been a place that I’ve always loved coming to, back when we used to, and I’ve missed it,” Briscoe said. “It’s always been one of my top-five tracks.” It was Bell’s fourth run-

“This has been a place that I’ve always loved coming to, back when we used to.” Chase Briscoe ner-up finish this season. He was wearing a splint on his arm as he continues his recovery after breaking his left wrist in a crash at Michigan on June 7. “I think he’s handled that as well as you can handle it,” team owner Joe Gibbs said. “He’s got a burning desire to stay in there and win. I think he had, you know — he had a real good car tonight, too.” Denny Hamlin, who started on the pole, was third. William Byron, who won two stages while leading a race-high 94 laps, and Alex Bowman rounded out the top five. “I thought I was in control early on, even though I wasn’t leading,” Hamlin said. “I felt in control and probably got a little lazy on some restarts and things like that. Just taking for granted that I’ll just go up there and get it.” NASCAR ran 19 Cup races in Joliet before pulling out after the 2019 season. It tried to build interest in the event in a crowded sports market, but the race struggled with attendance. After racing on a street course in downtown Chicago each of the previous three years, NASCAR decided to go back to Chicagoland — eager to see how the Next Gen cars would do on the rough and bumpy asphalt at the facility.

Rain on Friday and Saturday caused some parking issues, but the racing was compelling. Led by Briscoe, Bell and Hamlin, Toyota accounted for seven of the top 10 cars for the first time in a Cup Series race — continuing a strong season for the manufacturer. “Yeah, Toyotas are fast,” Bell said. Driving a “Space Jam”themed car in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Looney Tunes movie, Bubba Wallace was sixth in his No. 23 Toyota Camry. Wallace is part of the 23XI Racing team that is coowned by Michael Jordan, one of the stars of the 1996 movie. Ryan Blaney was seventh in his seventh consecutive top-10 finish. Ty Gibbs, Corey Heim and Riley Herbst completed the top 10. Tyler Reddick’s championship hopes were damaged by an oil leak with about 32 laps left in Stage 2. There was a long caution while Reddick’s 23XI Racing crew worked on his No. 45 Toyota in the garage, replacing the radiator because of a hole. Reddick, who won the first three races of the season, finished 36th. He trails Hamlin by 44 points at the top of Cup standings after he was down by one going into the weekend. Kyle Larson also had a rough day after qualifying second behind Hamlin. He was in third place when he spun out of Turn 4 on Lap 93. He drove his No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet into the wet infield grass and had to be pulled out of the mud. Larson finished 34th, extending his winless drought to 43 races. He finished second in each of the previous two Cup races at Chicagoland.

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Chase Briscoe (19) burns out after winning the NASCAR Cup Series race at Chicagoland Speedway.

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NOTICE

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Alyssa Nicole Schoenewerk, late of 9749 Bethel Church Road, Locust, Stanly County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned c/o attorney Kelly Rains Jesson at 5821 Fairview Road, Suite 218, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28209, on or before October 1, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 1st day of July, 2026 Francine Everett, Administrator of the Estate of Alyssa Nicole Schoenewerk Kelly Rains Jesson, Esq. Jesson & Rains, PLLC 5821 Fairview Road, Suite 218 Charlotte, NC 28209 26E000304-830 (For Publication: Dates 07/01/2026, 07/08/2026, 07/15/2026, 07/22/2026)

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000162-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Marjorie Barden Jarrett deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Marjorie Barden Jarrett to present them to the undersigned on or before September 26, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 24th day of June 2026 Richard Alton Jarrett Jr. 754 Carneros Circle High Point, NC 27265 Executor

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000194-830 NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY Having qualified as Co-Administrators of the Estate of the late, MICHAEL TODD HOWELL, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before October 1, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 1st day of July, 2026. Brandon Todd Howell 213 Kelty Ave. Norwood, NC 28128 Brandi Howell Talbert 1355 Hwy 109N Troy, NC 27371 Scarborough Law, PLLC Whitney T. Scarborough 107 A East Wade Street Wadesboro , NC 28170

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE No. 26E000076-830 NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as EXECUTOR of the estate of MICHAEL J. SMITH, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said MICHAEL J. SMITH to present them to the undersigned on or before September 24, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 24th day of June, 2026. Executor: Ashley E. Smith 32 William Penn Avenue Pennsville, NJ 08070 Erin L. Basinger Attorney at Law PO Box 65 Albemarle, NC 28002 (704) 322-2800

NOTICE

RE-ADVERTISEMENT Sealed Bids for furnishing materials, labor and equipment for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Street Resurfacing Project, will be received by the City of Albemarle, at the Office of the Purchasing Coordinator, 144 North Second Street, Albemarle NC 28001; or by Mail at P O Box 190, Albemarle NC 28002-0190 until 11:00 a.m., local time on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in the Raymond I. Allen Community Room #118, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. Estimated Project Quantities: +/- 3,699 TN S9.5-C Asphalt Surface Course (Fiber Reinforced) +/- 31,640 SY Asphalt Milling 2” Depth Including but not limited to adjustment of manholes and water valves, and all other associated work. Plans, Specifications, and Bid Document may be viewed Electronically at: http://ftp2.withersravenel.com Username: AlbemarleResurfacing Password: psXpsG Project Contact: Zach Ward PE, Assistant Project Manager, WithersRavenel, 115 MacKenan Drive, Cary NC 27511, 828-255-0313. The Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Deposit in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the amount Bid in the form of cash, cashier’s check, or certified check on some bank or trust company surety licensed under the laws of North Carolina to execute bonds. Contractors offering a proposal on this project must be licensed to do the specified type of contracting in the State of North Carolina. The City of Albemarle reserves the right to reject any and all bids, as may be in the best interest of the City of Albemarle, and further reserves the right to waive any irregularities and informalities in any bid submitted. BID NUMBER: 2026-10

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000315-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rex Allen deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Rex Allen to present them to the undersigned on or before October 9, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 8th day of July 2026 Lynsie Marie Allen 222 Gordon Street Norwood, NC 28128 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000082-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Walter Louis Blalock deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Walter Louis Blalock to present them to the undersigned on or before October 9, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 8th day of July 2026 Alice Fay Allen Blalock 40481 Mt. Zion Church Road Norwood, NC 28128 Administratrix

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000277-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Peggy Lowder Burris a/k/a Peggy L. Burris deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Peggy Lowder Burris a/k/a Peggy L. Burris to present them to the undersigned on or before September 19, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 17th day of June 2026. Rita B. Griffin 807 Sylvania Avenue Albemarle, NC 28001 Executrix

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000318-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of James Ellis Covington deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Jame Ellis Covington to present them to the undersigned on or before October 9, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 8th day of July 2026 Loria Watkins 20088 Hurley Road Oakboro, NC 28129 Administratrix

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000306-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Glenn Dale Jackson, Jr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Glenn Dale Jackson, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before October 3, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 1st day of July 2026 Glenn Dale Jackson 4846 Turner Court Country Club Hills, IL 60478 Administrator

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000463-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Jack Curry Nipper deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Jack Curry Nipper to present them to the undersigned on or before September 19, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 17th day of June 2026. Paul Fernandez 6227 Lookout Loop Raleigh, NC 27612 Administrator

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000297-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Linda Delcomyn Raxter deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Linda Delcomyn Raxter to present them to the undersigned on or before October 3, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 1st day of July 2026 Edmond Albert Lucas 25337 Stony Mountain Road Albermarle, NC 28001 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000310-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Leroy Douglas Smith a/k/a Leroy Douglas Smith, Jr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Leroy Douglas Smith a/k/a Leroy Douglas Smith, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before October 9, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 8th day of July 2026 Dwight Douglas Smith 24006 Bear Creek Ch. Rd New London, NC 28127 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000114-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Charlotte M. Yaw deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Charlotte M. Yaw to present them to the undersigned on or before October 3, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 1st day of July 2026 Christine Wood 210 Park Ridge Road Albemarle, NC 28001 Administrator

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE STANLY COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000255-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Paula Marie Case, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Paula Marie Case to present them to the undersigned on or before September 26, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 24th day of June, 2026. Brian Thomas Wilson 102 Wineberry Way Yorktown, VA 23692 _________________________________ _________ Executor Information John W Webster 146 North 4th Street Albemarle, NC 28001 _________________________________ _________ Attorney Information

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Haruki Murakami’s novel ‘The tale of KAHO’ goes on sale The author also wrote “The City and Its Uncertain Walls” By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press TOKYO — Haruki Murakami’s new book went on sale in Japan on Friday, but dozens of enthusiastic fans marked the release at a countdown event at a major Tokyo bookstore to get their first copies as soon as the clock struck midnight. “The Tale of KAHO” is the Japanese author’s first fulllength novel featuring a lone woman protagonist, according to Shinchosha Publishing Co. “Kaho, a picture book author, is just an average young woman. But truly bizarre things start happening around her,” Murakami said in a brief message posted on the publisher’s campaign website. “I wrote this novel as I put myself in her shoes.” His statement drew the attention of many fans, because most of Murakami’s protago-

CITY OF ALBEMARLE, NORTH CAROLINA ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID IFB #2026-07 Bid Albemarle City Hall Security Upgrades Sealed Bids for City Hall Security Upgrades will be received by the City of Albemarle until 2:00 PM local time on August 6, 2026, in the Ray Allen Community Room, Room 118, at the Albemarle City Hall 144 N 2ND ST, Albemarle, NC 28001. Late bids will not be accepted. If a Bid is sent by mail or other delivery system, the sealed envelope containing the Bid shall be enclosed in a separate package plainly marked on the outside with the notation “BID ENCLOSED – 2026-07” and “BID ENCLOSED – 2026-07 Bid Bond” and shall be addressed to 144 N. 2ND ST., Albemarle, NC 28801, Attn: Matt Smith. A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit will be held on July 9, 2026, at 2:30 PM local time at the Albemarle City Hall 144

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000002-830 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Latoya Allen (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Latoya Allen) to Craig Shoemaker, Trustee(s), dated July 29, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 1794, at Page 1166 in Stanly County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on April 8, 2025, in Book No. 1879, at Page 1456 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Stanly County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000027-830 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Toriano Adaryll Thomas (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Toriano Adaryll Thomas) to Connie E. Josey, Trustee(s), dated January 11, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 1593, at Page 386 in Stanly County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Stanly County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on July 22, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Albemarle in the County of Stanly, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the City of Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina, on the northeast side of Bird Road, and being more particularly described as follows:

25SP000015-830 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Richard Charles Wood III to Huneycutt Law, PLLC, Trustee(s), which was dated September 26, 2019 and recorded on September 26, 2019 in Book 1680 at Page 1659, Stanly County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

HIRO KOMAE / AP PHOTO

Bookstore staff prepare a countdown event for their customers to receive copies they pre-purchased, of author Haruki Murakami’s new book titled “The Tale of Kaho,” at the Kinokuniya bookstore in Tokyo, Thursday, July 2, 2026. nists are young or middle-aged men. “I’m excited about finding out how the story evolves around a female main character,” said Naoyuki Yamano, the first customer to buy the new

Murakami novel. Initially, the novel started as a short story titled “Kaho,” which Murakami rehearsed at a book reading event two years ago at Waseda University, his alma mater in Tokyo,

N. 2ND ST, Albemarle, NC 28001. Please check in and remain in the lobby of the rear entrance outside the council chamber.

Creech & Associate 1000 W. Morehead St., Suite 120 Charlotte, NC 28208 Attn: John Crawford, AIA

Scope of Work: Renovation of interior office spaces for security upgrades. Work takes place entirely on the interior, with the exterior being completely out of scope. The Work shall be completed in two phases, one being the Economic Development and Planning Department areas and the second phase being the Administration and Public Utilities areas. The Work includes coordinating with Albemarle City Hall for access, security, and shut downs. All questions about the meaning or intent of the Bidding Documents are to be submitted in writing to the architect via email at jcrawford@creech-design.com. Deadline for questions is 5:00 PM local time on July 23, 2026. Questions will be addressed via Addenda no later than 7 days prior to bid date. The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is:

AM on July 22, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Locust in the County of Stanly, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 3 as shown on that certain plat entitled “Major Subdivision - Final Plat Morgan Meadows Subdivision” recorded in Plat Book 28, Pages 98-99 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Stanly County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 113 Wildflower Drive, Locust, North Carolina. Property Address: 113 Wildflower Drive, Locust, NC 28097 Parcel ID: 557603218602 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be

BEGINNING at an existing bent iron pipe in the eastern right-of-way of Bird Road at the intersection of Woodhurst Lane, and from said point of BEGINNING thence with the right-of-way of Bird Road, N. 41-43-01 W. 200.00 feet to an existing iron pipe in an old lot line; thence N. 41-43-09 W. 137.37 feet to a set iron rebar in the right-of-way of Bird Road, a corner of Lowe’s Home Center, Inc. (Map Book 17, Page 409); thence with the line of Lowe’s Home Center, Inc., N. 48-16-12-E. 250.00 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence turning and running with the line of Lowe’s Home Center, Inc. S. 41-42-59 E. 22.12 feet to an existing bent iron pipe; thence with the line of South Central Oil Company, Inc. (Deed Book 374, Page 341), S. 41-46-12 E. 115.18 fee to an existing iron pipe, in the old lot line; thence continuing with the line of South Central Oil Company, Inc., S. 41-4113 E. 248.37 feet to an existing bent iron pipe in the right-of-way of Woodhurst Lane; thence turning and running with the right-ofway of Woodhurst Lane along a curve with a radius of 664.32 feet and an arc distance of 30.39 feet, a chord bearing of S. 57-22-03 W. 30.39 feet to an existing bent iron pipe; thence continuing with Woodhurst Lane S. 56-56-18 W. 152.37 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence continuing with Woodhurst Lane S. 64-45-47 W. 72.30 feet to the point of BEGINNING, containing 2.095 acres (91,269 square feet) and being a portion of the property conveyed to Larry McDowell Construction, Inc. by deed recorded in Book 564, Page 977, Stanly County Registry, all as shown on map entitled “A Physical Survey

described property situated in Stanly County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 91 of Meadow Creek Village Subdivision, as shown on a plat entitled “Final Plat, Meadowcreek, Phase 1, Map 1” recorded in Map Book 18, Page 323, as revised in Map Book 19, Page 86, in the office of the register of deeds for Stanly County, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 8923 Comstock Court, Locust, NC 28097. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

For any question concerning the project, please contact: John Crawford jcrawford@creech-design.com Bidding Documents will be available in electronic format on the city’s website. The link will allow you to download the documents as well as any addenda that may be issued throughout the bidding process. Bids will be received for a single prime, lump sum Contract. Bidders must have a license to do work as a contractor in the State of North Carolina, as set forth under Article 1 chapter 87 of the North Carolina General statutes. The bidder’s North Carolina Contractor license number shall be designated on the outside

with Mieko Kawakami, a renowned female author and fan of his work. The story was published in the June 2024 edition of Shincho magazine. Takumi Hashimoto, a 33-year-old office worker who attended the launch event with three fellow members of a Murakami book reading club, said he hopes to read a story from a female protagonist’s perspective and find out how the story evolved from a series of magazine stories into a fulllength novel. His companion, Mizuki Shirota, 33, said she was struck by the way Murakami portrayed the female protagonist’s emotions in the magazine version. “The story was written in a way that makes you very aware of lookism, or how I, as a woman, am perceived by men ... there were parts that I even felt startled a bit,” Shirota said. “So, I want to read that again in the book.” Beaming and all smiles, the group headed to a coffee shop open all night to immediately start reading the book.

One day, 26-year-old Kaho goes on a blind date arranged by her book editor. Over dinner, her date tells her that, although he has dated a number of women, “I’ve never seen one as ugly as you.” Baffled rather than outraged, curious Kaho tries to uncover the meaning of his words. Soon, bizarre things begin happening to her, including encounters with other mysterious characters, such as an anteater and a jaguar. Murakami has since released three subsequent “Kaho” stories in Shincho magazine, most recently in the March edition. He weaves the four stories into a 352-page new novel with four chapters: “Kaho and the Motorcycle Man,” “The Anteater of Musashi-sakai,” “Kaho and the Termite Queen” and “The Guardian Angel, Elephant Egg and Scarlett Johansson.” The magazine version of the first “Kaho” story has been published in English in The New Yorker, but the novel for now is available only in Japanese. Translation plans have not been disclosed.

of the sealed envelope containing the Bid.

Albemarle encourages good faith effort outreach. Bidders shall submit a completed identification of Minority Participation form and an Affidavit A & Affidavit B, or an Affidavit C, as applicable along with their Bid.

Bidders are required to provide a noncollusion affidavit, as set forth in the bidding documents. As provided by statute, a deposit of cash, cashier’s check or certified check on some bank or trust company insured by the Federal Deposit insurance Company, or a bid bond executed by corporate surety licensed under the laws of North Carolina to execute such bonds in the amount of 5% of the bid must accompany each bid. The payee shall be “City of Albemarle”. Said deposit shall guarantee that the Agreement will be entered into by the successful bidder if award is made. Such deposit may be held by the city until the successful bidder has executed and delivered all required Contract documents to Albemarle City Hall. Bidders should note the provisions of the Supplementary instruction to bidders contained in the Bid Documents regarding minority participation. The City of

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, including without limitation, nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced, or conditional Bids. Owner further reserves the right to reject the Bid and Bidder whom they find, after reasonable inquiry and evaluation, to not be responsible. Owner may also reject the Bid and Bidder if the Owner believes that it would not be in the best interest of the Project to make an award to that Bidder. Owner also reserves the right to waive all informalities and technicalities not involving price, time, or changes in the Work and to negotiate, as allowed by law, contract terms with the Successful Bidder.

purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also

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

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

of PID#655803212920 on Bird Road, the Larry McDowell Construction Inc. Property”, dated July 2, 2016 and prepared by On Point Surveying, PLLC, Marshville, NC, under the supervision of Justin McKeon, PLS# 4739. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1355 Bird Road and 1349 Bird Road, Albemarle, North Carolina.

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

An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors,

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Richard Charles Wood III. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Foundation Legal Group P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 23588 - 153510

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 24442 - 122276

If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 22-18141-FC02

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, July 8, 2026

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