Horoscopes and famous birthdays https://ansonrecord.com/features/lifestyle/38010/horoscopes-and-famous-birthdays-2 2024-03-27T09:29:00Z

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, communication with a spouse or a loved one is vital this week; otherwise, you risk arguments for no reason at all. Sit down and have some frank conversations about your needs.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, when you face adversity you should rest assured that you can handle anything that is thrown at you. Although, you may need a little help from some close friends or family.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, others may not understand who you are and could make assumptions that are inaccurate. They may just need some more information to get a clearer picture.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, many elements of your life are starting to level out this week. That can be a comfort to you because you seemingly have been running around for some time and could use a break.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, others have nothing but good things to say to you this week. Bask in their kind words and adoration, and use this as motivation for future endeavors.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

With no big events on the horizon, you may want to manufacture one to have a reason to party, Virgo. Start planning your guest list and come up with a fun theme to get behind.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, while you should be mindful of your goals, you also can support those around you as they pursue their own. Serve as inspiration to people in your life right now.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, this is a good time to start tackling some projects around the house that have been put off for some time. Redecorating and remodeling can be an inspiration right now.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Take a step back and reevaluate your approach to a situation because the way you have been doing it just hasn’t yielded the results you expected, Sagittarius. Take suggestions and tips.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, high energy may have you swinging at the fences every time you try to tackle something. You may want to dial things back and take a more measured approach.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Various transitions in your life could temporarily disrupt your daily activities, Aquarius. You’ll find a new groove soon enough that will feel comfortable and provide you with what you need.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t take stock of what all the naysayers have been dishing out, Pisces. You know yourself better than others and recognize what you are able to accomplish. Get started on plans.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 24

Peyton Manning, Athlete (48)

MARCH 25

Katharine McPhee, Singer (40)

MARCH 26

Jonathan Groff, Actor (39)

MARCH 27

Mariah Carey, Singer (55)

MARCH 28

Vince Vaughn, Actor (54)

MARCH 29

Leah Williamson, Athlete (27)

MARCH 30

Celine Dion, Singer (56)

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Arrest follows shooting in Wadesboro https://ansonrecord.com/featured/38007/arrest-follows-shooting-in-wadesboro 2024-03-27T06:46:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer WADESBORO — On Tuesday, March 26, at approximately 4:30 p.m. officers responded to a residence on Wheeler Street following a report of shots fired. Arriving at the scene, officers found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Currently the names of the victims are being withheld. Transported from the scene, one victim flew to a nearby medical center with life threatening injuries. The second victim was treated on the scene and later released. Following an investigation, Wadesboro Police charged 31-year old Devonte Lamont Duncan of Wadesboro, with one count of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious bodily injury. Held in the Anson County Jail without bond, additional charges are pending against Duncan. The Wadesboro Police Department assures residents no additional suspects are sought in this incident. ]]> ]]> This day in history https://ansonrecord.com/news/38005/this-day-in-history 2024-03-27T02:27:00Z

March 27:

In 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon sighted present-day Florida.

In 1625, Charles I acceded to the English throne upon the death of James I.

In 1794, Congress approved “An Act to provide a Naval Armament” of six armed ships.

In 1912, first lady Helen Herron Taft and the wife of Japan’s ambassador to the United States, Viscountess Chinda, planted the first two of 3,000 cherry trees given to the U.S. as a gift by the mayor of Tokyo.

In 1945, during World War II, General Dwight D. Eisenhower told reporters in Paris that German defenses on the Western Front had been broken.

In 1964, Alaska was hit by a magnitude 9.2 earthquake (the strongest on record in North America) and tsunamis that together claimed about 130 lives.

In 1968, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin (gah-GAH’-rihn), the first man to orbit the Earth in 1961, died when his MiG-15 jet crashed during a routine training flight near Moscow; he was 34.

In 1973, “The Godfather” won the Academy Award for best picture of 1972, but its star, Marlon Brando, refused to accept his Oscar for best actor, and in what would become one of the Oscars’ most famous moments sent in his place actor and activist Sacheen Littlefeather, who spoke out about the depiction of Native Americans in Hollywood. (In 2022, months before her death, the Academy would apologize for the “abuse” Littlefeather received at the time.)

In 1975, construction began on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, which was completed two years later.

In 1977, in aviation’s worst disaster, 583 people were killed when a KLM Boeing 747, attempting to take off in heavy fog, crashed into a Pan Am 747 on an airport runway on the Canary Island of Tenerife (ten-uh-REEF’).

In 1980, 123 workers died when a North Sea floating oil field platform, the Alexander Kielland, capsized during a storm.

In 2012, award-winning poet Adrienne Rich, died in Santa Cruz, California at age 82, while art critic Hilton Kramer, died in Harpswell, Maine at 83.

In 2018, retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, in an essay on The New York Times website, called for the repeal of the Second Amendment to allow for significant gun control legislation.

In 2019, Facebook said it was extending its ban on hate speech to prohibit the promotion and support of white nationalism and white separatism.

In 2022, Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage at the Oscar and won best actor just minutes later. (Smith was later expelled from the movie academy and received a 10-year ban from the Oscars.)

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Anson County Sheriff Graduates from Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/38003/anson-county-sheriff-graduates-from-sheriffs-leadership-institute 2024-03-27T11:01:00Z Submitted to the Record
Pictured from left to right are Secretary of Department of Public Safety Eddie Buffaloe Jr, Attorney General Josh Stein, Sheriff Scott Howell, and Sheriff Darren Campbell President of The North Carolina Sheriff’s Association.

ANSON — This week, the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association hosted sheriffs newly elected or appointed in November, 2022 for the fourth and final week of the Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute in Chapel Hill. Sheriffs from across the state including Anson County Sheriff Scott Howell attended. The Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute is held at the Rizzo Center of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

During the week, sheriffs listened to guest speakers, attended training classes and presentations on a variety of topics to help them improve their skills to be an effective sheriff. Topics covered included leadership strategies, personal resiliency, ethics and professionalism, social media, community engagement, school resource officers, courthouse security, and the Statewide Misdemeanant Confinement Program.

At the conclusion of the week, Sheriff Howell graduated from the Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute and earned a diploma for his achievement.

The Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute is held every four years following the election for the Office of Sheriff in North Carolina and is taught in one-week segments over the course of sixteen months. The North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association has organized the Institute since 2006, and almost every newly elected sheriff in the state since then has attended to receive the valuable training offered by the Association.

Sheriff Howell commented on his experience over the course of the Sheriffs’ Leadership Institute, sharing, “As a new sheriff, I have been grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with and be mentored by experienced sheriffs and learn from experts in the field during each week of the Institute. I look forward to applying the knowledge I gained as I work every day to keep the citizens of Anson County safe.”

Founded in 1922, the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association is a statewide not-for-profit professional and educational organization of our state’s 100 sheriffs. Through their Association, sheriffs work to strengthen the law enforcement profession and services their offices provide to the people of North Carolina.

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Superintendent McLean updates commissioners on new middle school constuction project https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/38001/superintendent-mclean-updates-commissioners-on-new-middle-school-constuction-project 2024-03-27T10:15:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer
Superintendent of Anson County Schools Howard McLean Lauren Monica

WADESBORO — Superintendent of Anson County Schools Howard McLean provided county commissioners with an update on the current progress of Anson’s anticipated new middle school construction. Joined by Randall Baker, from Pinnacle Architecture, the pair apprised the board on the new middle school’s construction and funding advancements.

Pinnacle Architecture is the company tapped to work on the new middle school project.

McLean began by reminding commissioners that the school board voted in October 2023, unanimously, to approve a $41 million middle school construction project. Anson County has only one middle school to serve the county currently. The badly needed middle school will educate sixth, seventh, and eighth graders.

Though the new middle school is expected to house these grade levels, Mclean regretfully confides the new school will open with the option of, “Housing a sixth grade wing, graded but not constructed at the time [of opening].”

The seventh and and eighth grade wings will be operational on day one of the school opening, McLean assured commissioners.

“We have been in communication to see if we may be eligible for more funding to get that sixth grade wing completed,” shared McLean, sounding hopeful. “Last week we completed an application to apply for a supplemental grant. One of the stipulations was that we have support from county commissioners. Chairman Jamie Caudle signed that grant last week for the application and we have now sent that off to DPI.”

Mclean informed the board that he expects to hear a decision regarding the grant in the coming weeks.

The new grant Mclean announced applying for would provide the new middle school construction project with a $12 million dollar financial infusion.

Baker confirmed for commissioners that all required permits are in place for construction with the only current delay in construction being the unfunded sixth grade wing. Should the newly applied grant gain approval, Baker stated the sixth grade could be completed at that time, with all required permits needed for the construction already obtained.

Responding to Caudle’s question regarding a new ball field for the school, Baker stated, “We will have the ball fields graded, they will be seeded, but as far as being ready to actually have turf, there is no turf.”

Seeking clarity, Commissioner Robert Mims inquired, “So just to be clear, the field will not be completed?”

“When I am saying completed I mean having turf, the goals… that is not in the project at this point. The site is graded and ready for the finished project,” answered Baker.

Verbally pinning him down, Commissioner JD Bricken questioned Baker, “If you were to get that twelve million would you have the funding to complete the ball field?”

“Absolutely,” declared Baker.

Insisting on transparency, Mclean hammered, “Just to be clear, we can not play a regulation ball game on the field as it is now?”

“That is correct,” confirmed Baker.

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SPCC honors women in law enforcement for Women’s History Month https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37997/spcc-honors-women-in-law-enforcement-for-womens-history-month 2024-03-27T10:10:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer
Sargent Chance-Horne explains that even though getting pepper sprayed was optional in her department, “I got tased because I did not want anybody to take it easy on me or give me special treatment because I’m a girl.”

POLKTON — In honor of Women’s History month, South Piedmont Community College’s annual advisory board for Women’s History month selected the theme ‘Women In Law and Safety.’

The Lunch and Learn event, held in the Horne Library at SPCC Polkton campus on March 19, featured three women representing diverse areas of law enforcement and rescue services: D’Anya Chance-Horne, Takesha Hammond, and Jessica Paul.

Deborah Barrett, who is the Director of Public Safety Curriculum Programs for SPCC, suggested women in safety and law enforcement as this year’s theme. Barrett has over twenty years as a public safety officer under her belt and remembers some of the difficulties she experienced as a woman starting out her career in a male dominated profession.

“These women represent over fifty years working in law enforcement in Anson county when combined together,” says Barrett proudly.

Though law enforcement is often thought of as male driven, Barrett feels, “Women have a lot to bring to the table, like strong communication skills, problem solving capabilities, and a knack for empathizing,” outlines Barrett. “In law enforcement the male and female perception are both needed,” she adds.

Speaking before a crowded room, Sargent Chance-Horne shares, “I have been with the Wadesboro Police Department for seven years. I started when I was twenty-three, had just had a son, and was at a point in life where I wanted to start a purposeful career.”

When she made the decision to go into law enforcement, Chance-Horne says, “If I was going to do this, put my life on the line, I want to do it in a community where my family is, where my brothers are, and where I know I can truly make a difference.”

A graduate of Anson High School, Chance-Horne was living in Charlotte when she made the decision to return home and start protecting her hometown of Wadesboro.

“Now I am our sex crimes involving children investigator, juvenile cases, evidence and property management custodian,” says Chance-Horne, who is also charged with investigating the background of potential new recruits.

“The best part of the job is being out in the streets dealing with people. It is my favorite part of the job,” she shares.

In order to serve as a law enforcement officer, you need to be a United States citizen, pass extensive background checks, have a high school diploma or GED. Among other requirements, potential candidates must complete Basic Law Enforcement Training and pass the BLET state exam.

Realizing that law enforcement may not be for all women, Chance-Horne offers this advice, “Never be afraid to be you. If you have a passion, work hard for it.”

Takesha Hammond, Anson’s Correctional Program Director, has worked for the Department of Corrections for 21 years and is still amazed by her career. Though Hammond started out in Albemarle, when Lanesboro Prison was built in Anson, she quickly transferred.

Initially a case manager, Hammond saw the prison balloon from nine hundred male offenders to 1,504. When the prison changed its name to Anson Correctional and began housing female offenders rather than males, Hammond shares, “We went from fighting to crying.”

According to statistics shared by Hammond, there is a fifty to fifty hiring ratio of women to men staff in law enforcement and 57.1% of new hires in the profession are women.

Hammond explains that there are a lot of career opportunities for women in law enforcement, outlining, “Administrative, medical, mental health, janitorial, alcohol dependency or behavioral specialist.”

Assistant Chief of the Gulledge Fire Department and Probation Parole (PPO) officer, Jessica Paul, knew from an early age what she wanted to be when she grew up. Close with her grandfather, the legendary George Yough formerly of the Wadesboro Fire Department, he instilled in Paul a desire to help and protect others.

At just seventeen, Paul was voted into the Gulledge Fire Department. Beginning her fire certification classes at the Lockhart-Taylor Center, she was the only female in her class.

Paul got into probation due to her belief that people deserve a second chance. “It [probation] allows us as probation officers to work with people, communicate with them, and just find out what is going on with them.”

Probation officers work with people who have been convicted of a crime but not incarcerated. To become a probation officer, one must have a Bachelor’s degree and complete probation training.

“You will have calls that stay with you forever, good and bad,” says Paul. When it comes to excelling in a traditionally male dominated profession, Paul advises, “Push forward, work hard, and prove them wrong.”

Aiding to bring all genders into law enforcement, Barrett announced that SPCC will offer a two-year Forensics course for high school and early college students starting this fall.

“We already offer a Criminal Justice course so we are very excited to announce this Forensics course,” promoted Barrett.

All three speakers excitedly announced law enforcement is hiring across all departments.

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County crime report https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37995/county-crime-report-5 2024-03-27T10:04:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer

March 14

MORVEN — At 12:11 a.m., deputies respond to Warehouse St. following a report of stolen property. When deputies arrived on scene, they met with the victim, his employer, and the property owner. The victim stated to deputies that when he returned to his home on Maple St., he discovered various items stolen from his home, such as; heaters, air conditioners, jewelry, tools, TV’s, and assorted household items with an estimated value of $5,000.00. The victim’s employer stated that he had found the stolen items at his warehouse where he had previously given permission to two individuals to store their belongings. The owner of the property stated that the building had been broken into approximately two weeks prior to the current incident. Later in the day, deputies responded to a disturbance call on Maple St. Arriving at the location, deputies discovered the victim from the previous incident involved in a dispute with two individuals over his stolen property. The individuals were attempting to leave the scene when deputies arrived. After identifying the couple as Timothy McManus and Tanya Wolfe, deputies learned the pair had outstanding warrants. When deputies handcuffed McManus, they found drug paraphernalia in his backpack. Deputies retained the drug paraphernalia, served McManus with charges and released him pending a hearing. Arrested for probation violation, Wolfe was placed in the Anson County Jail. Case remains active.

POLKTON — At 5:29 p.m., deputies responded to Olive Branch Rd. following a report of bullet holes found inside vehicles and a home on the property. It is the belief of the victims that the rounds originated from a nearby shooting range. The case is active.

March 15

POLKTON — At 12:42 a.m. deputies responded to Cedar Grove Church Rd. following a report of an individual seen trespassing on a trail camera. Deputies arrived at the scene and began scouring the area for the perpetrator. While attempting to locate the suspect, deputies found multiple outbuildings on the property broken into with items from the buildings littering the ground outside. The subject pictured in the trail camera appears to be a white male, dressed all in black and using an electric scooter as a get-away vehicle. Later that day, Captain Williams located an unknown subject riding along on an electric scooter and matching the all in black clothing description of the unknown subject from the previous call. When Captain Williams attempted to engage the individual, the male ran off into the woods, leaving his trusty scooter behind. The case is active.

POLKTON — At 11:34 p.m., observant Deputy Luis Galvan noticed a vehicle while on patrol that he knew belonged to an individual with active misdemeanor and felony warrants from Anson and Union counties. Attempting to perform a traffic stop, the driver of the suspicious vehicle, whom Deputy Galvan was able to visually identify as Charles Newsome, pulled into a driveway and fled the scene on foot. While searching the suspect’s vehicle, deputies discovered a BB gun whose handle was outfitted with black electrical tape in order to conceal a Co2 cartridge. Deputies noticed the orange safety cap on the end of the barrel was removed to give the appearance of a glock firearm. Deputies also located a cigarette pack, discarded by the suspect in his flight, that contained a plastic baggy with a crystal-like substance visually consistent with methamphetamine. After a brief foot pursuit the suspect was easily apprehended and transported to the Magistrate’s Office where he faced numerous outstanding warrants. Adding to his existing criminal portfolio, Newsome was charged with resisting arrest, possessing methamphetamine, and a host of traffic violations. Case closed by arrest.

March 16

ANSONVILLE — At 7:18 a.m., deputies responded to Maynard Ave following a report of a domestic disturbance. The caller reported to dispatch that her husband had woken up that morning wanting to argue. Afraid that her husband and son would get into an altercation, the wife called the disturbance into dispatch. Deputies arrived on scene to find the disturbance to be verbal in nature and that the husband desired to remove his belongings from the home. With law enforcement present, cooler heads prevailed and deputies allowed the male to remove his essential belongings from the residence. In a sudden heated moment, an argument again broke out and deputies attempted to deescalate the situation. Unable to calm the husband, deputies moved in to place him under arrest. Disagreeing with this turn of events, he resisted arrest and fled down the street. Eventually returning, the husband was placed under arrest and transported to the Magistrate’s Office where warrants were obtained and served. Case closed by arrest.

WADESBORO — At 10:44 a.m., deputies responded to City Pond Rd. following a report of stolen copper wires and vehicle parts. Believing to know the identity of the suspect, the victim assured deputies that her property was being sold in South Carolina and requested that law enforcement follow up with Chesterfield County deputies. Both agencies are currently cooperating in this investigation and the case remains open.

POLKTON — At 11:46 a.m., deputies responded to High St. following a report of someone fraudulently using an Amazon account to order items and have them delivered to an address on High St. Arriving at the scene, deputies learned the stay at home shopper had ordered for themselves an inappropriate adult item retailing for $40.65. The suspect is also reported to have gone into the victim’s account and changed the delivery location on the victim’s legitimate Amazon purchases to the address on High St. When questioned, the occupants of the home denied knowing about, ordering, or receiving any recent packages to their address. The case is active.

March 17

MORVEN — At 3:30 p.m., deputies responded to Ponderosa Place following a report of a stolen 2006 Yamaha Bruin valued at $2,000.00 and a 2022 Yamaha Grizzly valued at $4,000.00. Neighbors reported to deputies they saw a black, mid-2000’s Honda Accord driving in and out of the property while no one was home in recent weeks. The vehicle appeared to be driven by a young looking African American male. The two-door Honda can be heard coming down the road from a distance due to its modified exhaust. Featured in the back window of the vehicle is the car’s license plate. Case is active.

WADESBORO — At 7:08 p.m., deputies responded to NC 109 South following a report of a shot fired through the victim’s building. Upon arriving on scene, deputies were advised the victim had recently obtained new neighbors. After speaking with the new additions to the neighborhood, deputies learned they had friends over who had engaged in target practice on their property. Alerting them to the incident, deputies suggested they be mindful while shooting as there are homes located all around their new residence. Case closed by means other than arrest.

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Oh no, moratorium may be a no go. Public Hearing on flea market scheduled https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37992/oh-no-moratorium-may-be-a-no-go-public-hearing-on-flea-market-scheduled 2024-03-26T07:01:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer WADESBORO — Anson County Board of Commissioners picked up where they left off following the six day hold-over from their previous meeting that abruptly ended in adjournment, recessed until Monday, March 25, with discussing the legality of the proposed Peachland Flea Market project slated for land on Faulkner Rd. Using the intervening time to brush up on moratorium laws and precedent cases whose rulings set the court’s reasoning regarding future cases, County Attorney Scott Forbes manned the podium for the whole of the meeting. He expertly fielded commissioners’ questions surrounding the legalities of enforcing a moratorium on a particular business. “It is my legal opinion after looking at all of the facts, and relying on another case in this, In re Campsites, moving forward, a moratorium is not going to stop this flea market, in my legal opinion. Nothing gives you the authority to stop or to regulate where a business goes within this realm,” advised Forbes. To support how he arrived at this legal conclusion, Forbes cited the In re Campsite case which concerned a campsite whose construction began at a time when the county they were building in had no zoning laws in place, similar to Anson County now. “This does not mean that they [Peachland Flea Market] are not required to have building permits, to make code, and things of that nature,” he cautioned. Further clarifying his legal stance, he continued, “To enact a moratorium, you would have to find, in a public hearing, a clear statement of the problems or conditions that necessitate a moratorium. [To prevent all] flea markets from coming, I do not believe you meet the requirements for that either, which is what the purpose of a moratorium is,” defined Forbes. “It is for a type of business or to stop something… this would be for the purpose of stopping a business from coming to a place it has a legal right to come to,” he added. Touching on the shared traffic concerns of many, Forbes theorized, “If there is a traffic problem out there, it needs to be handled. That is something that came up because people were talking about the narrow seventeen-foot wide road out there. There are also codes… I think there has to be a twenty-foot wide driveway all the way around the facility.” “I just want to clarify,” interjected Chairman Jamie Caudle, “when we talk about traffic on Faulkner Rd., the county has no authority over the traffic on Faulkner Rd., correct?” Following Forbes’ affirmative answer, Caudle described a litany of areas under DOT control such as, paving roads, widening roads, and maintaining roads. “In other words, I don’t have the authority to say there is too much traffic on Green St. out here, right?” Forbes responded to Caudle, saying, “Limiting the ability to have a business there because of the flow of traffic, I do not see where that would be the county’s responsibility, no.” Commissioner Lawrence Gatewood hypothesized, “Would a negative report from DOT, could it cause this flea market (to not come)…” “That would be on them,” stated Forbes. “From my understanding the DOT can stop anything.” Getting to the heart of the matter, Caudle questioned, “In your legal opinion, have we met the full requirements that if we hold a public hearing, it will hold up to a moratorium?” Following a brief pause to collect his thoughts, Forbes answered cautiously, “It is my opinion that, from the facts that I have, the concerns expressed, will not satisfy [the needed] criteria.” Returning to the legal precedent for a moratorium, Forbes explained, “They bought the land based on no zoning, they started working on it with the assumption that there was no zoning, and the assurances that no zoning would be implemented to block them. When the land was purchased they had the legal right to do with the land what they said they were going to do with the land and as far I know they have done it. The grading of the land, they spent money on it, they have changed the land… they have spent their money just like with In re Campsites.” Forbes, who has toured the construction currently in progress on Faulkner Rd., acknowledged all the hard work and money already spent on the site, with gravel and soil already hauled in, significant grading work, and poured concrete already taking place. “That would be creating a vested interest in the property,” he simplified. Certain remedies may yet be found, Lawrence Gatewood, inquired of Forbes the legal definition of a public hearing. “A public hearing is to ferret out information to make an educational decision on something or reveal more information and for you to establish a public forum for that.” Bricken remarked, “Because we have not had a public hearing we do not officially have a moratorium in place at this time.” “You do not have a moratorium. That was an interpretation that I had made that upon further review, I did not have the correct information at that time. Upon further study, you do not have a moratorium in place at this time,” Forbes contritely emphasized. Interceding in the conversation, Commissioner Robert Mims inserted, “My question would be, if they have a flea market and then there are problems, can we go back and issue [a moratorium] to try and stop it?” “Like with any business if you have problems like that, you can shut them down in certain circumstances,” answered Forbes. “There is a public hearing tentatively scheduled for April 16th to be held here in this room,” informed Caudle. Weighing in from his role as County Manager, Lenn Sossaman explained that following the hearing, an ordinance will be drawn up for the board to adopt, stating the criteria needed to qualify for the implementation of a moratorium that the county has met. Jokingly declaring the gift of clairvoyance, Commissioner Gatewood described images of, “A carnival taking place out there every Saturday and Sunday on this ten acre site on Faulkner Rd. To your point Mr. Mims, we may have to close it down once it is a nuisance every weekend. That is what I envision.” Delivering the final word from commissioners on the subject, Bricken emphatically stated, “It was brought up in one of our other meetings that maybe we are not engaged in this process. I’m sure our county attorney can tell you I speak to him almost every day about this. I’m sure if our EMS Department were here they could tell you I speak to them several times a week, the permitting office would tell you the same thing. I go by there every single day.. You know where I live, I go by there every single day and I look at that site,” reminded Bricken. “In the end, even with a moratorium, I do not see you ending the flea market coming to this area,” cautioned Forbes. “Even if you have a public hearing and you implement it, I do not see that being the end of this. I do not think that it is going to cause the flea market not to come here,” he mournfully predicted. ]]> ]]> Commissioners adjourn meeting in response to ongoing flea market concerns https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37985/commissioners-adjourn-meeting-in-response-to-ongoing-flea-market-concerns 2024-03-22T12:46:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer

WADESBORO — In response to ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Peachland Flea Market coming to Faulkner Rd., Commissioner Jamie Caudle used his Chairman’s Report to clarify a few outstanding issues in regards to the project at the meeting on Tuesday night.

“We have been back and forth over this issue with our county attorney [Scott Forbes] numerous times,” he emphasized. “To this date, there is a moratorium in place that prohibits a flea market from opening in Anson County. “

His frustration evident, Caudle went on to state, “ It is my understanding from talking to our building inspector that you do not have to have a permit to grade your driveway, as a resident or as a business.”

Caudle continued to outline that currently in Anson County you do not need a permit to move dirt on your property, whether you are a resident or a business. According to Caudle, a moratorium does not prevent someone from hauling rock, dirt, gravel, or other materials on their property.

“Any building activities that do not require a permit are allowed on that property. The individuals working on the flea market can go out there and work. They cannot do electrical work, they cannot do plumbing, they can not add structures, walls, or build a house without a permit. The building inspector will not sign off on these permits until they receive the architectural drawings,” declared Caudle. “Once the architectural drawings are presented, then our building inspector will know how to classify the building as to what it is going to do. Right now they are telling us this is going to be a flea market… we do not have confirmation of that from an architect that that is what they are building.”

Following the submission of a blueprint for the proposed facility, the county manager, building inspector, environmental health and fire marshal will go out and inspect the site to ensure it passes code.

Caudle went on to confirm that a six-month moratorium is in place and that the county attorney has mailed a certified letter to the business owner that there is a moratorium in effect at this time.

Eager to assuage the concerns of residents, Forbes added, “I personally told the president (or person that identified themselves as the president) of the organization, as well as investors. They have had in person notification and they have had written notification,” stated Forbes, though he admits he has not followed up with tracking to confirm the date the letter was received.

“People can tell you whatever they want, but we are confirming that a moratorium has been placed, it was a unanimous vote by the Board of Commissioners to implement a moratorium. Part of the moratorium process is having a public hearing and that is what we are trying to get set up now,” said Caudle.

Caudle confirmed the public hearing will be advertised once it is scheduled, giving all citizens a chance to share their concerns regarding the proposed flea market endeavor.

In closing, Caudle confided on a personal note, “Your concerns are warranted and I agree with you 100%. We are taking every legal avenue we can to make sure that this facility is meeting the proper requirements that are set forth by our county.”

Following going into closed session, Commissioner Jarvis Woodburn put forth a motion to adjourn the meeting until Monday, March 25 at 3 p.m. The motion, seconded by Commissioner Priscilla Little-Reid, passed without opposition.

Citizens wishing to learn more about the county’s moratorium currently in effect, voice concerns, or gain further insight into the permitting process and county zoning plans are invited to attend. Adjourning the meeting allows commissioners and county leaders to continue researching what legal resources are available to the county currently.

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Anson County basketball coach charged with human trafficking a minor and indecent liberties with a child https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37983/anson-county-basketball-coach-charged-with-human-trafficking-a-minor-and-indecent-liberties-with-a-child 2024-03-21T08:40:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer

WADESBORO- On Thursday March 14, thirty-year old Jamoszio Burch, an Anson County youth basketball coach, was arrested and charged with one count of human trafficking of a child and two indecent liberties with children, according to details released by the Anson County Sheriff’s Office.

A resident of Wadesboro, Burch is known locally as ‘Coach Moszi.’ The suspect has had a coaching presence in both Anson and Union Counties. Posts on his personal social media accounts describe Burch as having founded the N.C. Jayhawks, a traveling basketball team.

Burch has also served as a former varsity basketball coach for Union Academy Charter School in Monroe, the first and longest running charter school in Union County. Alarmed by the alleged crimes of their former coach, Union Academy issued the following statement to families,

UA Families:

I am writing to inform you that we are aware of the recent arrest of former varsity basketball assistant coach Jamoszio Burch in Anson County. Mr. Burch’s contract expired at the end of the recent basketball season and was not renewed. He is no longer affiliated with UA.

We understand that news like this can be concerning, especially when it involves someone who was previously associated with our school. Please rest assured that the safety and well-being of our students are always our top priority, and we remain committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”

Court documents show that the crimes Burch has been accused of committing occurred in 2022. Burch allegedly transported a juvenile with the intent of holding them in sexual servitude. As he coached young men across Anson County, the Sheriff’s Office anticipates more victims and additional charges to be filed against Burch.

Once arrested, Burch was booked into the Anson County Jail under a $250,000 secured bond. The Anson County Sheriff’s Office is working jointly with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation to gather further evidence and uncover more potential victims of Burch.

Following Burch’s arrest on March 14, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office posted on their social media page that they had received information regarding potential crimes committed by Burch in their county and requested anyone who is a victim or knows someone who is a victim to please reach out to the Stanly Sheriff’s Office at 704-986-3714.

Burch is expected to appear in court on Monday, March 25th. Captain Brian Tice of the Anson County Sheriff’s Office has assured residents, “With this being a case involving minors we are not releasing much information to the media but we will be issuing another press release in the coming days.”

This is a developing story and further details will be provided as they are released.

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Hamlet residents express betrayal and concern over proposed biochar facility https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37978/hamlet-residents-express-betrayal-and-concern-over-proposed-biochar-facility 2024-03-21T04:50:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer
Widely attended, the Hamlet community recieved support from former county commissioner Pam Dillman and Dobbins Heights Mayor Antonio Blue.

HAMLET — A public hearing to address the ongoing legal saga of International Tie Disposal opening a biochar production facility on Mark’s Creek Church Rd. was held on Monday, March 18 in the Cole building by DEQ. Representatives from DEQ as well as from Polivka International, the parent company which is headquartered in Weddington, were present at the meeting to listen to community concerns and feedback regarding the storm water permit project.

Golisano Institute for Sustainability at the Rochester Institute of Technology states, “Biochar is a carbon rich material that is made from biomass through a thermochemical conversion process known as pyrolysis.” The United States Department of Agriculture explains this process as “the heating of organic material, such as biomass, in the absence of oxygen.” and adds that “because no oxygen is present the material does not combust but the chemical compounds (i.e., cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) that make up that material thermally decompose into combustible gases and charcoal.”

If granted, the permit would allow a biochar production facility to be in operation on Mark’s Creek Church Rd., one and a half miles from Hamlet’s extraterritorial jurisdiction, and approximately ten miles from Monroe Avenue Elementary School and Richmond County Ninth Grade Academy. The facility is projected to burn railroad ties, some contaminated with a cancer causing substance known as creosote. Used since the mid-1800’s as a wood preservative, creosote is derived from the distillation of tar from wood or coal. Creosote is an active ingredient used in treating wood products designed for outdoor use, in order to protect the wood product from environmental hazards.

According to the proposed project, International Tie plans to run 426 kilns on site. An estimated 160 kilns per day will be in operation at the facility, while the remaining kilns are prepared for the following day’s operations. Each kiln is anticipated to process roughly 2,000 pounds of wood materials such as creosote soaked railroad ties or untreated lumber. The facility will also house 62 natural gas-fired afterburners on site and has a proposed operation schedule of running 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year.

Basil Polivka, a representative of Polivka International, explains that Hamlet was chosen because, “We were approached many years ago about the issue of railroad ties being stacked up all over the country. There is no really good way to get rid of them and a lot of times they just sit along the right of the way of the tracks. Hamlet has a big rail facility and so is looked upon as a favorable location for the facility to operate.”

Speaking at the hearing, former Richmond County Commissioner Pam Dillman, said, “They have already started burning…There are thousands of ties on the ground now to be burned and they are burning two to five days a week now. That is the air that you see in the afternoons on the days that they burn.”

Many members of the community shared their concerns that burning of railroad ties is currently taking place prior to the company securing a permit to do so. Polivka is perplexed by this saying, “I do not understand that misconception… we do not currently have power at the facility so there is no way we could be firing up the kilns at this time.”

A major source of contention for Dillman, and others, is a $500,000 check the county received to beautify the area. Expressing dismay, Dillman asked, “What does that mean? They got paid off… every single one of the commissioners and the members of the planning board.”

Dillman, who is on oxygen, is concerned along with many residents in the community, about a potential rise of cancer diagnoses in the county from breathing in air particles from the burning creosote.

Mayor of Dobbins Heights, Antonio Blue, shared that his father worked for the railroad for 47 years before he and several of his co-workers passed away from cancer.

“This facility will only bring fifty new jobs to the area. I asked officials would you build your house near it? I received no answer so I guess that was his answer. God gave us three things to take care of: air, water, and the land. This will destroy all three,” declared Blue.

Supporting Mayor Blue’s comments, Heather Hudson added, “We do not need more jobs. We need better healthcare.”

Many citizens expressed feeling betrayed by local leaders.

Debra David, a Dobbins Heights resident and breast cancer survivor, stated, “Our government officials are supposed to be doing this fighting for us. I want DEQ to do their job instead of sitting there smiling and writing things down. We are a dumping ground. We are going to fight and we are going to win. We are not going to lose,” declared David to thunderous applause.

Agreeing with David, Jesse McQueen added, “ We are a poor county in the middle of poor counties and we are in a location where it is easy to get ties here. Officials made an agreement that benefitted nobody but the county budget. Elected officials sold us out,” lamented McQueen.

Following public comments, Polivka addressed the crowd, expressing his dismay that, “There are a number of misconceptions concerning the project that we hope will be cleared up. I came here because I want to hear public comments. Our main goal in coming tonight is to hear what you have to say.”

Largely shouted down and peppered with questions, Polivka was unable to state much more. As he regained his seat the crowd again erupted with one individual questioning, “What do you in Weddington know about the railroad?”

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Horoscopes and famous birthdays https://ansonrecord.com/features/lifestyle/37975/horoscopes-and-famous-birthdays 2024-03-20T09:29:00Z

HOROSCOPES

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, this week you need to get back to business, especially if hobbies or other interests have been taking up much of your time lately. Avoid distractions at all costs.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

You may be excited about new prospects that are on the horizon, Taurus. With so much change coming, it can be exciting to see what lies in wait.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you may discover that you are devoting a lot of attention to others of late, sometimes cutting into your own needs. Be attentive and caring, but pay attention to your own needs as well.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, if you check the calendar lately you are bound to find a number of dates are filled. You may want to consider slowing down; otherwise, you may prematurely burnout.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, if expenses and finances have been troubling you of late, you can breathe a sigh of relief when things lighten up this week. Right now you are in a good spot financially.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you will need to uphold your end of the bargain for the time being as others are counting on you delivering. You cannot dodge any responsibilities right now.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, over the next few days you may receive some offers from employers or entrepreneurs that seem very appealing. Before you jump into something new, do your homework.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it will become obvious how others rely on you for advice and to get jobs done correctly. All of that responsibility can put extra pressure on you, so take it all in stride.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

This week you may discover that people are flocking to you left and right, Sagittarius. You will not have trouble making new friends if you so desire.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, take ownership of any actions that may have put you into a strained relationship with those close to you. Admitting mistakes is the first step in mending fences.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you may only now be getting to those resolutions you made a few months ago, but better late than never. Focus on projects around the home that will revitalize your spaces.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Physical activity can do wonders for you, Pisces. If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or even tired, take a walk or hit the gym for some exercise that can alleviate many symptoms.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 17

Rob Lowe, Actor (60)

MARCH 18

Adam Levine, Singer (45)

MARCH 19

Clayton Kershaw, Athlete (36)

MARCH 20

Ruby Rose, Model (38)

MARCH 21

Gary Oldman, Actor (66)

MARCH 22

J.J. Watt, TV personality (35)

MARCH 23

Kyrie Irving, Athlete (32)

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Police arrest suspected child trafficker https://ansonrecord.com/uncategorized/37968/police-arrest-suspected-child-trafficker 2024-03-19T02:20:00Z Courtesy of the Anson County Sheriff’s Office

WADESBORO — The Wadesboro Police Department has issued the following statement regarding the arrest of Jamoszio Burch:

On Thursday, March 14, 2024, 30-year-old Jamoszio Burch of Wadesboro, was charged with 1 Count of Human Trafficking of a Child, and 2 Count of Indecent Liberties with Children. On the same day, Burch was arrested and booked into the Anson County Jail under a $250,000 secured bond.

The Anson County Sheriff’s Office and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are currently working jointly on the case, and this is an on-going investigation. Additional charges are anticipated. If anyone has any information, please contact your local law enforcement.

This is a developing story and further details will be provided as they are released.

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Wadesboro Police hunt murder suspect across county lines https://ansonrecord.com/news/37951/wadesboro-police-hunt-murder-suspect-across-county-lines 2024-03-08T03:48:00Z Lauren Monica Anson Record WADESBORO — On Wednesday, March 6, at 12:50 a.m., the Wadesboro Police Department responded to a call at the Oak Hill Apartment Complex. Upon arriving at the complex, officers discovered a single victim suffering from numerous gunshot wounds. Officers identified the victim as 30-year-old Jamarcus D. Sellers of Rockingham. Sellers was taken to Atrium Health Anson where he succumbed to his injuries. Working quickly, the Wadesboro Police Department, in conjunction with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, determined there to be one suspect in the case, 26-year-old Dewon Rayquan Hailey of Wadesboro. Within hours of this determination, warrants were obtained for the arrest of Hailey, now charged with First Degree Murder. Despite a relentless search, officers are unable to locate Hailey at this time. Law enforcement suspects Hailey may be in the Union County area. As he is a fugitive from justice wanted for murder, Wadesboro Police Department ask the public to report any sightings of Hailey or have information regarding this case, please call 911 or the Wadesboro Police Department Tip Line at (704) 694-2160. In a released statement, Chief Chewning thanked the men and women of the Wadesboro Police Department, Anson County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe Police Department, and the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections Division of Community Supervision. “I would like to send my personal and our department’s most sincere condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Sellers. It saddens me to see such a young vibrant life taken in a senseless act of violence.” Chewning went on to assure citizens, “The Wadesboro Police Department will not condone criminal behavior and will work tirelessly to make Wadesboro a better and safer place.” ]]> ]]> Commissioners collide on Trillium Board vote https://ansonrecord.com/news/37949/commissioners-collide-on-trillium-board-vote 2024-03-08T11:50:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer
Little-Reid Courtesy photo

WADESBORO – At the commissioner meeting on Feb. 20, commissioners were charged with voting on two new members to be inducted into the Trillium Regional Anson Advisory Board.

According to officials, Trillium provides specialty care for residents suffering with serious substance abuse issues, mental illness and intellectual or developmental disabilities. Trillium Regional Advisory boards include one County Commissioner from the county they are operating in, as well as one other candidate, meeting Trillium’s outlined criteria, to be appointed by the Board of Commissioners.

A unanimous vote was made by commissioners to select fellow Commissioner Priscilla Little-Reid to the Trillium Health Resources board following a motion made by Jarvis Woodburn and seconded by Lawrence Gatewood.

“Next we have two candidates listed and we need the appointment of one of these candidates to serve along with Commissioner Little-Reid on this board,” said Chairman Jamie Caudle.

Answering the call, Gatewood made a motion to select one of the candidates, Kishia Dunlap to the position.

“Mr. Chairman, I would like a discussion before we appoint Ms. Dunlap,” interjected Little-Reid. “Because a lot of the commissioners are not aware, including yourself and Mr. Bricken, I don’t think y’all really know Kishia or Sherika [Staton], for the simple fact that she just came to the board meeting. I want to give y’all a little more detail on what they are expecting because we had a meeting with Mr. David Peterson and Anthony Ward (Representative of the Trillium board), the County Manager and myself. Mr. Mims, he was invited, but he didn’t show up.”

Little-Reid stated, “I want everybody to have a paper on what the criteria and that statute is so that way you (Caudle) and Commissioner Bricken can get a little bit more details about the two that is running instead of we just nominating somebody.”

“Normally this is not how we do it, we just have one person and go on, but this particular time we have two,” she said.

Outlined in the paperwork Little-Reid provided the commissioners with was a detailed synopsis of the criteria requirements for serving on the board. According to general statute 122C-118.1, potential candidates must have social service expertise and experience in the field of mental health, intellectual or other developmental disabilities or substance abuse services.

Stating a desire for commissioners to have a detailed picture of the criteria required for the position and of the candidates in the running, Little-Reid went on to read to commissioners the bio provided by Staton: A representative for the Sandhills Board of Directors, Staton has 18 years experience serving in the field of mental health, participating in a psychosocial rehabilitation program for Sandhills Mental Health. She has a degree in criminal justice focusing on victimization, and is the chair for the Juvenile Crime Prevention council. A former employee of the Anson County Department of Social Services, Staton has five years of experience with the Child Protection Service Department.

After stating her recommendation that the board consider Staton for the position, Little-Reid added, “Before you vote, everybody needs to look at what the criteria is and listen to what is being said and not just vote because you were asked to vote for somebody else.”

Wrestling back control of the meeting, Caudle requested the board proceed with voting on the motion previously made by Gatewood and seconded by Robert Mims to appoint Dunlap to the position — unless commissioners had a need for any further discussion on the matter.

“I have some discussion,” Little-Reid interjected. “Commissioner Mims, that is his sister-in-law, so is that not a conflict of interest?”

“No, it is not,” confirmed County Attorney Scott Forbes after Caudle directed Little-Reid’s question to him regarding the legality of the vote.

With legality determined, Commissioners Caudle, Bricken, Gatewood and Mims voted in favor of appointing Dunlap to the board, with Commissioners Little-Reid and Woodburn casting the only dissenting votes.

Commissioner Harold Smith, who has not been present for eight out of 10 meetings, was again not present to vote and again did not designate someone to vote in his stead.

Signaling the discussion did not end with the vote, Little-Reid then inquired, “I would like to say that this has never happened before because we never had two people to take the motion. When I talked to several of you, and I am not going to call your names because I don’t want to put you out there, but you said you didn’t really know her and you were going to look to see what the other Commissioner, Commissioner Mims said. I am not going to call your name but if you don’t know somebody and then you haven’t researched the person, how can you vote for them?”

Eliciting laughter from the crowd, Little-Reid continued, saying, “I am just asking a question. I am not pertaining it to no one person, you know how you voted, and you know whether or not you knew the person that you voted for.”

Meeting the stare of his fellow commissioner, Caudle asked, “Are you expecting a response… I don’t know who you are addressing.”

“Do you know Kishia?” demanded Little-Reid.

Appearing surprised by his colleagues’ request for a defense of how he cast his vote, Caudle answered, “I do not know Ms. Kishia Dunlap or Ms. Sherika Staton. I did my research on both candidates and spoke with individuals who know both candidates and I made my decision.”

“Oh, did you? What about you, Mr. Bricken?”

Responding to Little-Reid, Bricken answered, “I know Ms. Dunlap and I have always felt like she was a very qualified candidate.”

Continuing to follow up, Little-Reid then asked Bricken, “Is it because you know her because she comes to the meetings or because you know her personally?”

“I just know of her experience. I know the position she has in social services and I made my decision,” he stated.

Dunlap was appointed with a 4-2 vote, with Little-Reid and Woodburn dissenting.

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Law Enforcement seek public assistance in hunt for murder suspect https://ansonrecord.com/top-stories/37942/law-enforcement-seek-public-assistance-in-hunt-for-murder-suspect 2024-03-06T03:20:00Z Lauren Monica Staff Writer

WADESBORO — Chief Chewning has requested assistance from the public in locating a murder suspect. The suspect, Dewon Rayquan Hailey, is described as a twenty-six year old man with long black hair, 5”7 in height, and weighing approximately 200 pounds.

The suspect is charged with a murder that occurred shortly after midnight on the morning of Wednesday, March 6. Working in conjunction with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Wadesboro Police Department has obtained warrants for Hailey’s arrest.

Though law enforcement has released no further information at this time, Chief Chewning is assuring the public more details will be provided tomorrow. Anyone with information regarding Hailey’s whereabouts is requested to call the WPD tip line at (704) 694-2160.

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Citizens share concerns and suggestions with Board of Education https://ansonrecord.com/news/37935/citizens-share-concerns-and-suggestions-with-board-of-education 2024-03-06T10:30:00Z Lauren Monica Anson Record

ANSON — Local creative talent and entrepreneur, Garrett Snuggs, addressed his concerns and suggestions regarding low testing scores and diversity within the Anson County School District when the Board of Education met on Monday, February 26.

“The data that I am looking at, as far as the performance of our schools at this current time, shows our school’s score is 42 out of 100. Even though it is a D score, it is two points away from a F score,” lamented Snuggs.

“We feel like the children in our school system are not getting the proper education that they deserve. If you look at our math scores, we have 6.5% of our kids operating at a proficient level.”

The lack of diversity is a concern that Snuggs shared he feels plagues the Anson County School district, citing his main areas of concern are in Administration and Athletics.

In regards to athletics, Snuggs confides that coaches are traveling throughout Anson, Union, and Richmond counties, working with young men, and are in need of additional funding and support.

Previously discussed as a way to alleviate the burden of securing locations for practice, is usage of various school gyms and training facilities during times of the year that do not conflict with that school’s athletic programs.

Assured by the board and superintendent of facility availability, Snuggs is now perplexed by reports that students are being denied entry into gym facilities.

“We are wanting to know what is going on with that and what y’all plan to do to address that situation.”

Mr. Fred Davis, whose children were all educated by the Anson County School District, had concerns and suggestions of his own to share with board members.

Davis began by assuring the board, “This is not directed at anyone, person, or school. It is a concern for children, period.”

Starting off with a solution, Davis suggested, “I want to start off with CTE, possibly adding a Barber school and Cosmetology to that curriculum.”

Referencing the former speaker, he promoted, “Mr. Garrett Snuggs already has a barber school set up. It would be very little cost, they are already certified, and is another avenue for our kids to utilize.”

Two years ago the Anson Record had the pleasure of reporting on the one-year anniversary of Triad Barber School and its first proud Anson graduate, Marcell Robinson. Since inception, Snuggs has not looked back, his school annually churning out highly qualified and uniquely talented graduates.

“I have a daughter at Spellman, she went through here, I had to send $200.00 every six weeks for her to get her hair done,” painfully recalls Davis.

“I was down at Spellman Saturday, in the commons area, girls are doing hair and they are getting paid. We have to give our kids another opportunity, where at $20 bucks a haircut, that is money right then and there. This school system has been great to my children. All of them graduated and all of them are successful.”

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School Board provides update on new middle school project progress https://ansonrecord.com/news/37937/school-board-provides-update-on-new-middle-school-project-progress 2024-03-05T10:35:00Z Lauren Monica Stafff Writer

ANSON — Chairman George Truman recently provided an update on where the school district is in the process of constructing a much needed second middle school for the district.

“I wanted to address the public and let you know where we are in the process of finishing the contract with Pinnacle for our new [middle] school for $41 million dollars.”

Transparently outlining where monies allocated for the project are coming from, Truman stated, “There is five million dollars coming from local sources, 30 million from state construction funds, six million from accumulated Lottery funds, and miscellaneous school construction funds. All of these monies are eligible to be used towards new school construction.”

Originally eligible for an additional twelve million dollars to fund the project, the Anson County School District fell prey to sabotage.

“A false rumor circulated in Raleigh that our system had received multiple options for a cheaper middle school, but we chose not to use it. Therefore it was decided that Anson County did not need the money,” he explained.

“Folks, that is hurting our children,” Truman lamented. “That rumor is false. We only had one legal bid to choose from, and that is the bid that we chose. There were never any other options that were legal that could have been chosen,” he reiterated.

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Writers’ Club announces contest winners https://ansonrecord.com/news/37926/writers-club-announces-contest-winners 2024-03-02T08:31:00Z Submitted to the Anson Record
Youth winners, front row from left, Alivia Williams, Carmen Harrington, Tina Andonovich, Isabella Zamora Saldana Back row, from left, Kaylee Caulder, Jiya Shah, Justin Morton Submitted photos

WADESBORO — The Anson County Writers’ Club (ACWC) announced the 2023 winners of its annual contests in prose and poetry at the H.B. Allen Library on February 25.

ACWC President Kaye Ratliff welcomed the winners and their families. “The mission of the writers’ club is to encourage talent in Anson County,” she said.

Ratliff memorialized three members who sadly passed away in the past two years: Ruth Waddell Hickman, Beverley Bushong Getzen, and Helen Goodman.

Hickman, a founding member, made many contributions to the people of this county, Ratliffsaid. She was an example of grace, dignity and positive attitude, and demonstrated her faith — “She was an angel among us,” Ratliff said.

Getzen moved to Wadesboro 15 years ago with her husband, Rufus. Both immediately wereimmersed in the community. The Getzens were instrumental in in the success of the CarolinasWriters’ Conference and Back Porch Stories.

Goodman, an accomplished author, was chairman or the Sneedsboro Project Committee. She obtained the grant and oversaw the construction of the amphitheater at South Piedmont Community College, which is named after her. The outdoor drama, “A Ripple in the River”, was performed at the college for 10 years.

“From the beginning, the club has been blessed with remarkable members,” Ratliff said.

The contest committee, composed of Ratliff, Kelly Liddington, and Randy Tarlton, then awarded each winner with certificates and cash prizes. Ratliff stressed that all entries were judged by impartial outsiders.

2023 contest winners

Youth Poetry grades 3-6: First Place, Carmen Harrington, Lilesville Elementary School,

“Missing Christmas”; Second Place, Tina Andonovich, Lilesville Elementary School, “Christmas

Day You’re Here!”; Third Place, Alivia F. Williams, Lilesville Elementary School, “To Me Christmas Is”.

Youth Prose grades 3-6: First Place, Jiya Shah, Peachland-Polkton Elementary School, “The Happy Ending”.

Youth Prose grades 6-8: First Place, Isabella Zamora Saldana, home schooled, “Drowned Screams”.

Youth Poetry, grades 9-12: First Place, Jamie Howard, Anson County Early College, “Reflection”.

Youth Prose, grades 9-12: First Place, Kaylee Caulder, Anson County Early College, “What

We Do in the Dark”; Second Place, Justin Morton, Anson County Early College, “Count This as Your Last Meal”.

Adult Poetry: First Place, Kaye Ratliff, Wadesboro, “Sticks and Strings”; Second Place,

Susie Knight Williams, Polkton, “Lament”; Third Place, Ulises Zamora-Tenorio, Polkton, “It Rains Love”.

Adult Prose: First Place, Mario Kersey, Raleigh, “Forgetting Copernicus”; Second Place,

Mary H. Jordan, Polkton, “Three Wild Seeds”; Third Place, Kelly Liddington, Polkton, “Does

Tuckman’s Developmental Sequence of Small Groups Still Hold True?”.

The ACWC held its first contests in 1989 and since published 1I anthologies of the winningentries. Anson Pathways XII will be published in 2025. Anson Pathways X and XI are available for purchase from amazon.com. (choose “books” and then “Anson Pathways”).

Membership is open to anyone who is interesting in fostering the art of writing in themselves or others. The club meets at 3:00 p.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month except December and July at the First Presbyterian Church fellowship all. All ages are welcome

For more information, visit the website at www.ansoncountywritersclub.org.

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Anson Sheriff controversy awaits judgment from NC Court of Appeals https://ansonrecord.com/news/37922/anson-sheriff-controversy-awaits-judgment-from-nc-court-of-appeals 2024-03-01T12:22:00Z Matthew Sasser Editor
The contentious Dec. 6 meeting of the Anson County Board of Commissioner’s meeting was standing room only to parse out who exactly would be the Anson sheriff. Scott Howell would be appointed by the board that night, although the matter now stands before the NC Court of Appeals. Daily Journal file photo

WADESBORO — In December of 2022, chaos and confusion broke out with many different factions claiming either Wadesboro police officer Gerald Cannon or Anson County Sheriff’s Office chief deputy Scott Howell as the presumptive Anson County Sheriff.

A record of appeal, a collection of court documents, affidavits, depositions and evidence, was finalized and submitted to the North Carolina Court of Appeals in December of 2023. 15 months later, it is unknown when, or even if, a judgment will be rendered.

Chronological buildup of events

Chief Deputy Scott Howell was unanimously appointed by the Anson County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 6, 2022, to fulfill the term of long-time Sheriff Landric following his passing.

On Oct. 10, the Anson County Democratic Party convened and cast 90 votes from their executive council.

The Anson County Democratic Party selected Sgt. Gerald Cannon, a 21-year veteran of the Wadesboro Police Department, for Sheriff for the 2022-2026 term. The press release from this decision, dated Oct. 17, 2022, was featured in the Anson Record. Reid’s name would still appear on the forthcoming November ballot according to existing North Carolina general statutes.

The selection of Cannon by the ACDP was subsequently overturned by the North Carolina Democratic Party weeks later. Petitioners for the grievance included Howell, who stated that the process that unfolded by the ACDP was unfair.

According to the grievance that was filed, a uniformed Wadesboro Town Police officer was given a list of names of names by the ACDP to decide which Democrats were allowed into the Oct. 8 Executive meeting. Registered Democrats were denied entry to the meeting. Anson County Democratic Party Chairman Dannie Montgomery testified that she did not know the open party provision of the meeting and that she had prepared the list of attendees for the meeting.

Proxy voting was allowed at the Executive meeting in writing or by a selected delegate, although those votes were incorrectly gathered in Anson County via text message or an unofficial delegate. Montgomery testified that she prepared proxies and signed them herself on behalf of other persons. Additionally, some individuals who were contacted to vote were not aware of what they were voting for, and notice of this meeting was not given to all committee members at the same time.

By unanimous vote, the Council of Review deemed the grievance valid and ordered that the Oct. 8 meeting of the Anson County Democratic Party was invalid. The selection of Gerald Cannon as Sheriff was voided. The Council of Review also condemned the use of uniformed law enforcement to restrict Democrats from attending meetings.

The ACDP was deemed unorganized by the state. A cluster meeting was held on Nov. 12, at the Hampton B. Allen Library in Wadesboro to verify precincts and determine who was qualified to vote in the recertification process. That day, Democratic voters exceeded the maximum capacity of the library and were tasked to formalize their chairs and delegates precinct-by-precinct.

On that day, registration was checked by Montgomery, who was appointed by then-NCDP Chair Dr. Bobbi Richardson to serve as temporary chair, and Chris Hardee, President of the Coastal Caucus of the NCDP. At one point during the reorganization, Howell asked for a redo for the Morven chair tabulation after he observed Montgomery telling people to change their vote. Afterwards, Montgomery denied the accusation.

Around that time, a message alleged to have been sent by then-commissioner Vancine Sturdivant seemingly alluding to Howell caused a buzz online. “I need as many as you can contact from Anson County, especially Morven, Wadesboro and Lilesville,” reads the phone message. “Our young males can not take 4 years of this racist. Please Come. Please do not put on Facebook. I love you. Momma V”.

On Dec. 1, 2023, a meeting of the Anson County Board of Commissioners declined to take any action on the sheriff vacancy. It was stated in the open meeting by chairman Jarvis Woodburn that action would not be taken until their next scheduled meeting on Dec. 6.

New county officers would be selected at a Democratic Party county convention on Dec. 3. Immediately following that meeting, a County Executive Committee would elect the nominee for Sheriff. Similar to their initial, invalidated vote, Cannon was again selected as the nominee for Sheriff. It remains unclear if this second voting process could be considered valid since Reid remained the nominee for Sheriff despite his death. The Nov. 7 election and Nov. 18 canvassing had already taken place and the votes could not be held in trust for such a period of time.

Dec. 5 and 6 — contested meetings occur

On Dec. 5, an emergency meeting was held at the Board of Elections in Wadesboro. There, Chairman Ross Streater read a letter from Paul Cox, associate general counsel for the North Carolina Board of Elections, stating that the local Board of Elections did not have the authority to fill the vacancy created by Reid’s death and couldn’t undo the canvassing results that declared Reid the winner and give them to Cannon. It was stated that the Board of Commissioners did have this power.

According to an affidavit from BoE member Kelly Newton, following the emergency meeting at the BoE, there was a “surge” to a soon-to-be called emergency meeting of the board of commissioners at the Anson Government Center. Anson County Attorney Scott Forbes attended the BoE as a member of the public. Following the meeting, he began to travel to Greenville to visit a friend. Forbes was unaware that an emergency BoC meeting was about to be called.

Then-chairman Jarvis Woodburn was responsible for calling the meeting. According to a deposition by Anson County Clerk Denise Cannon (wife of Gerald Cannon), she was notified at 4:46 p.m. on Dec. 5, shortly after the BoE meeting. Woodburn did not respond to four subsequent phone calls by Cannon for further details.. At 5:29, an email was sent to all of the Anson commissioners regarding the meeting. Only two commissioners, Vancine Sturdivant and Harold Smith, were physically present at the meeting. JD Bricken phoned into the meeting while he was driving and later hung up, Dr. Jim Sims was at the meeting via a conference call and Robert Mims stated to Cannon that he just got home but would be coming to the meeting. Two NC general statutes offer competing statements on whether this called-meeting was even possible due to the fact that two of commissioners may not have been eligible too vote. According to Forbes, one statute states that a commissioner’s term ends on the first Monday of that month, while another states that a commissioner retains their seat until the next commissioner is sworn-in.

A quorum of board members for the meeting could be considered established only if the non-physically present members were included. It remains unclear if commissioners who were not physically present at the meeting were able to establish the necessary quorum; Forbes has stated that the existing rules are unclear and there is much debate among the UNC School of Government regarding this topic.

It was stated in multiple depositions that county IT employees had already gone home for the day and were unable to post video of the meeting to YouTube. Audio recording of the called meeting was later posted to the county website.

At the called emergency meeting of the board of commissioners, Montgomery stated that the ACDP executive committee had completed their precinct reorganizing and Cannon was their nominee. Anson County Manager Leonard Sossamon read again the letter that was sent by Cox. Sturdivant made a motion to accept Cannon, seconded by Smith. Woodburn requested a roll call vote. Four out of the seven commissioners (Sturdivant, Sims, Smith, Woodburn) voted to accept Cannon, who then took an oath of office that was administered by a notary. A photo of this oath circulated on Facebook. “The board of commissioners do not have to have an attorney present,” Forbes said. “They’re like anybody else. They can act on their own. They do not have to take the advice of an attorney or seek the advice of an attorney.”

Cannon has stated that he received a phone call later from Forbes that the Dec. 5 commissioner meeting was not valid. Cannon states that Forbes told him not to show up on the morning of Dec. 6 to report to the position of Anson Sheriff.

In court documents, Howell’s camp has stated that the less than hour’s notice of the meeting and less than 20 minute notice for the commissioners violated North Carolina General Statutes regarding open, public meetings. “A public body must give notice of a special meeting at least forty-eight hours before the meeting,” states the NC GS. No notice was posted outside of the Anson Courthouse of the meeting, which is typically done. No media outlet received notice of the emergency meeting, although Cannon’s camp has stated that no media outlet has submitted the proper paperwork to be the recipient of such information. In a deposition, Forbes stated that the only times that an emergency meeting has been called before was in the event of a natural disaster. In a deposition, Sossamon stated that he did not believe, in his capacity as a long-time county manager, the events of that day constituted an emergency meeting. Meetings that are deemed a “true emergency” can bypass notice requirements.

The Anson County Board of Commissioners “took all reasonable efforts to notify the members of the board of the emergency meetings” reads an injunction filed by Cannon.

On Dec. 6, the always-planned meeting of the commissioners took place. It began with the swearing-in of new commissioners Jamie Caudle and Priscilla Little, replacing Sturdivant and Sims. Various citizens spoke about the sheriff debacle during the public comment section.

“In this process, democracy was what we were most focused on,” Montgomery declared at the meeting that had swelled to exceed the maximum capacity with well over a hundreds citizens waiting out in the cold. “Democracy is something we cannot afford to lose. We need to not let hate and bigotry get in the midst of us, Racist and racists’ behavior are a part of a system — it is not a people. It is not a people. We need to fight against our racist system.”

After attending to various other small matters, the commissioners entered into closed session.

“After consulting with the attorney, through a very difficult, a very, very, tricky issue, I make a motion that we appoint Mr. Scott Howell as the Anson County Sheriff immediately and extending through the next four years,” commissioner Lawrence Gatewood said after the over 30 minute wait.

Bricken, Mims, Gatewood and the newly-sworn in Caudle had voted for Howell. Woodburn, Smith and Little had voted for Cannon.

“It’s been a long ride,” Howell said after the vote to a group of reporters. “My best friend passed on Sept. 21 and I was appointed by the county commissioners. It’s been heavy on peoples hearts. ….As we go forward, I promise to lead this community with honesty, integrity and professionalism as I always have for every citizen in this community.”

According to Montgomery, there were 59 votes for Cannon and 54 votes against him at the Dec. 3 meeting of the ACDP. It was shared that an upcoming meeting of the Anson NAACP would discuss the “travesty of justice” that ignored the votes favoring Cannon.

Where everything stands now

Cannon filed a second preliminary injunction following the Dec. 6 meeting. Superior Court Judge Stephan Futrell’s ruling stated that the Monday, Dec. 5 meeting was not a legitimate meeting. “Judge Futrell is very thorough and listens to both sides and makes a decision based on what he understands the law to be,” Forbes said. “As far as research and precedent and laws, you won’t find somebody who can outresearch or outstudy him.” Cannon was advised that he could file a writ of quo warranto, which can be used to challenge a person’s right to hold public office. Forbes said that a somewhat similar quo warranto case was last raised to the NC Court of Appeal in the 1950s to challenge a city councilman dispute from the small town of Marven. No decision was issued in that case.

The appeal by Cannon states that defendants Anson County, the Anson board of commissioners, the individual commissioner and Howell have prevented him from the position of Sheriff. “Anson County has refused to allow the plaintiff to assume his office as Anson County Sheriff,” states the court document, adding that Howell has since “purported” to be the Anson Sheriff. It adds that the second, Dec. 6 meeting of the commissioners, was illegal and not the Dec. 5 meeting.

A public hearing was held on May 8, 2023, for this matter. “A hearing was held before a Superior Court Judge in the matter of the Office of Sheriff,” stated the ACSO Facebook page at the time. “The case was dismissed in Sheriff Howells favor, and he is to remain the Sheriff of Anson County.” This was the Sheriff’s Office second public statement on the matter, following a February 2023 post that stated that the initial lawsuit was dropped and a second lawsuit was filed.

“Going through all the components was a law school exam,” Forbes said. “Because of the statues and the scenarios changing day to day, and the outside actions of the local Anson County Democrat party, things changed. This would have been a completely different scenario, and would not have exacerbated to this , and would not have have transpired to where they are had it not been for the….overturning of the Democrat Party decision.” Forbes said this incident has certainly been the most controversial in his role as attorney for Anson.

Cannon’s injunction states that the emergency meeting of the board of commissioners was not property challenged within 45 days of it taking place. This is included in the record of appeal. They also state that Forbes said in open court that the Dec. 5 meeting was ‘illegal’ and that the county wouldn’t be taking further action on the sheriff decision since they “were out of this fight”; Forbes said that he apologized for stating his opinion in open court and that he was wrong to assume the intention of the board for their pending decision.

Forbes made sure to be clear that both Howell and Cannon have valid, legal arguments. In his deposition, Forbes was very clear to refer to both as Sheriff Howell and Sheriff Cannon.

“If [Cannon] is successful [in his lawsuit], then he’s the sheriff,” Forbes succinctly stated. “Both men are professional and, if that happens, I expect and would be surprised if anything less than a professional exchange of office happens. Cannon would be sworn and follow the procedure of being the sheriff. Whatever the court decides, we need to support the sheriff, whichever side that may be,” Forbes said. “Both men have a tremendous amount of support.”

The three-panel North Carolina Court of Appeals has not decided if it will hear the case. If there is a hearing, it’s expected that oral arguments will be made. If the Court of Appeals declines to the case, Futrell’s ruling will stand, unless Cannon would like to appeal it to the State Supreme Court.

Both Howell and Cannon did not respond to a request for comment for this article.

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