Chatham Journal

Pittsboro, NC – The Town of Pittsboro held an All-Hands Safety Briefing and Work Plan Review with Google Fiber and its contractor, Hyper Networks, on Monday, November 2, 2026. Representatives from other utilities operating in the area were also in attendance. Pittsboro all-hands safety briefing and work plan review (photo by Gene Galin) Development Services Director Maie Armstrong facilitated the meeting and reinforced the Town’s safety, permitting, communication, and coordination requirements. Following the meeting, the Town determined that Google Fiber work may resume Tuesday, November 3, 2026, subject to the additional safety measures and requirements outlined in the Town’s Fourth Corrective Action Notice, along with improvements identified in Google Fiber’s investigation report. chathamjournal.com/2026/11/0…

Watch video! UNC basketball coach Michael Malone after win over W. Carolina - 10.2.26 - 🏀 **Michael Malone celebrates his first official win as UNC head coach:** Malone expressed gratitude for earning his first victory at North Carolina but acknowledged that the Tar Heels have significant improvements to make. - 📉 **Rebounding remains a major concern:** UNC allowed 13 offensive rebounds, continuing a troubling trend. Jarin Stevenson and Scion combined for just four rebounds for the second consecutive game. Malone emphasized that both players must contribute more consistently, ideally combining for seven to 10 rebounds or more. - 💪 **Rebounding requires a team-wide commitment:** Malone stressed that all five players must help secure defensive rebounds before worrying about transition offense. Guards Terrence Brown and Neo contributed five and seven rebounds, respectively, while reserves Maxi and Samo added four and three. - 🎯 **Poor three-point shooting hurt the offense:** UNC made just 9 of 30 three-point attempts (30%). Malone estimated that approximately 25 attempts were open or wide-open looks, suggesting that shot creation was effective but execution was lacking. - 🎢 **Inconsistency frustrates Malone:** He described UNC as a team that takes "two steps forward, three steps back." Despite strong stretches, the Tar Heels have struggled to sustain their performance for an entire half or 40-minute game. - 🔥 **UNC finished strong after surrendering its early advantage:** The Tar Heels started well but allowed their opponent to fight back. UNC eventually pulled away by handling defensive pressure, making timely baskets and converting opportunities at the free-throw line. - 🛡️ **Defensive improvements are being undermined by second-chance opportunities:** Malone praised UNC's field-goal percentage defense through its first four games but said allowing offensive rebounds wastes otherwise effective defensive possessions. - 🚀 **Transition offense must take a back seat to rebounding:** When asked whether sending all five players to the boards would hurt fast-break opportunities, Malone responded that the team must secure possession before it can run. - 🧩 **Eleven newcomers create chemistry challenges:** Malone emphasized that UNC is integrating 11 new players into a roster that lost approximately 90% of its offensive production and 85% of its rebounding from last season. Developing chemistry and consistency will take time. - 📊 **Lineup combinations remain a work in progress:** Malone and his staff evaluate two-, three-, four- and five-player combinations using analytics from games and practices. He said rotations will remain flexible depending on matchups, performance and game situations. - 👏 **Bench contributions provide encouragement:** Malone praised Maxi for his performance and highlighted Angelo Brizzi's steadying influence. Nicknamed "Uncle Angelo," Brizzi provides leadership and composure that may not appear in the box score. - 🤝 **Trust and teamwork are essential:** Malone believes UNC must embrace a balanced offensive approach rather than relying on one dominant player. He emphasized that the team looks considerably better when players trust one another and operate together. - ⚡ **Terrence Brown's aggressive play stands out:** Brown earned praise for his energy and competitiveness. He attempted 10 free throws, recorded two steals and one block, and contributed four deflections and four contested loose-ball recoveries. - 🔄 **Multiple ball handlers create offensive flexibility:** Malone believes having both Terrence Brown and Neo initiate offense makes UNC more difficult to defend. He wants both players to become comfortable creating opportunities with or without the ball. - 🏹 **Shot selection requires better in-game adjustments:** Although Malone generally approves of UNC's open three-point opportunities, he acknowledged that players must recognize cold shooting stretches and attack the basket more aggressively. - 🏀 **Free-throw opportunities were a positive:** UNC attempted 35 free throws, demonstrating that the Tar Heels were not simply settling for perimeter shots. Malone wants the team to continue attacking the paint and drawing fouls. - 🏆 **Roy Williams made Malone's debut especially memorable:** Former UNC coach Roy Williams attended the game and participated in presenting Malone with the game ball after his first official victory. Malone said the recognition was unexpected and meaningful. - 💙 **Malone appreciates Carolina's coaching legacy:** Williams reminded Malone of the significance of occupying the same coaching position once held by legendary coach Dean Smith. Malone expressed appreciation for the support he and his wife, Jocelyn, have received from Williams and his wife, Wanda. - 🙌 **Carolina fans have made Malone feel welcome:** Malone thanked the UNC community for its support and said he recognizes the responsibility of representing one of college basketball's most storied programs. - 📅 **Friday's game becomes the next measuring stick:** With additional practices available before Friday night, Malone plans to emphasize rebounding, consistency, shot selection and team chemistry. - 🔑 **Overall takeaway:** Malone is pleased to begin his UNC tenure with a victory but remains focused on correcting fundamental weaknesses. The Tar Heels have demonstrated defensive potential, offensive versatility and competitive determination, but improved rebounding, more consistent shooting and sustained execution will be necessary for long-term success. youtube.com/watch?v=itpM8SyT…

Doeren says goodbye to NC State, urges resources to match football expectations Raleigh, NC – Dave Doeren offered thanks, accepted responsibility for a disappointing season and delivered a pointed message about the financial demands of modern college football Tuesday, closing his tenure at NC State with an appeal for the university to give its next coach the resources needed to meet expectations. Speaking publicly after his dismissal, Doeren described a program that had become his family’s home and a profession increasingly shaped by the cost of acquiring and retaining players. He defended the broader accomplishments of his tenure while acknowledging that the championship he wanted to bring to Raleigh remained beyond reach. photo by Gene Galin “For this program to become what is wanted and expected, the resources need to match the expectations,” he said. NC State announced Doeren’s dismissal Oct. 24 and appointed running backs coach and special teams coordinator Todd Goebbel as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Athletics director Boo Corrigan said a national search for a successor would begin immediately. Doeren’s farewell, delivered without a question-and-answer session, was both a personal accounting and an argument about the conditions facing his successor. He thanked players, staff members, university leaders, high school coaches and fans, then asked supporters to stand behind a team with five regular-season games remaining. He also made clear that losing his job had not ended his attachment to NC State. “I leave here with no grudges,” he said. “I completely love this place.” chathamjournal.com/2026/10/2…

Chatham County volleyball reaches championship week: Seaforth and Woods Charter advance to regional finals Pittsboro, NC – Chatham County will have two high school volleyball teams competing for regional championships Tuesday night after Seaforth and Woods Charter swept their fourth-round opponents Saturday, October 24, extending their impressive postseason runs and moving within one victory of appearances in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association state championship matches. Seaforth defeated Person 3-0 in the 5A East quarterfinals, winning 25-18, 25-13 and 25-14. The Hawks will host familiar conference rival Cedar Ridge at 6 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, in the 5A eastern regional championship. Woods Charter continued its impressive 1A postseason run with a 3-0 victory over East Columbus. The Wolves will host Falls Lake Academy at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the 1A East regional championship, setting up a meeting with the defending 1A state champions. chathamjournal.com/2026/10/2…

The replay wasn’t clear enough to settle the call. Better angles from fans exposed the bigger issue: without goal-line and sideline cameras, officials can’t review what they can’t see. #CollegeFootball #ACC

AD Huddle, October 25 teapawt.net/i/broadcasts/1PKqrNMYM…

Pittsboro Planning Board Meeting Summary — October 19, 2026 ### Key Highlights and Decisions - 🏛️ **Meeting called to order:** The Pittsboro Planning Board held its regular meeting on Monday, October 19, 2026. Members confirmed a quorum and unanimously approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes. - 👤 **New planning director introduced:** Kevin Lewis officially introduced himself as Pittsboro's new planning director. Lewis previously worked for the Town of Knightdale for seven years and expressed enthusiasm about improving planning procedures, communication and development reviews. - 📋 **Major overhaul of development regulations planned:** Pittsboro has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a comprehensive update of its Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Work is expected to begin in early 2027, with extensive Planning Board involvement and public workshops. - 🌳 **Conservation subdivision ordinance coming in November:** The Planning Board expects to review proposed changes to the conservation subdivision ordinance at its November meeting. A draft is already available on the town's website. - 👥 **Planning Department staffing vacancies:** Two positions are vacant, both replacements rather than new positions. Lewis indicated the town hopes to receive an accepted offer for a Planner I position soon. ### Development Review and Public Participation - 🏘️ **Moving away from piecemeal zoning changes:** Lewis explained that previously discussed individual UDO amendments have been paused so their recommendations can be incorporated into the broader ordinance overhaul. - 🔎 **Greater transparency for development proposals:** Lewis wants the town's interactive development map to include pending development applications, not just approved projects. This would allow residents to learn about proposals earlier. - 📢 **Concerns about insufficient public notice:** Board members questioned whether residents have enough time to review development proposals when detailed information becomes available only shortly before Planning Board meetings. Lewis acknowledged the concern and supported earlier disclosure. - 🏗️ **Development review can take six months to a year:** Lewis explained that applications typically undergo multiple rounds of technical review and revision before reaching the Planning Board. He wants proposals to be substantially complete before they are presented. - ⚠️ **Reducing conditional approvals:** Board members expressed frustration with development recommendations containing numerous unresolved conditions. Lewis agreed that lengthy lists of conditions can create confusion, complicate enforcement and allow important requirements to fall through the cracks. - 🤝 **Developers must agree to additional conditions:** Lewis clarified that Planning Board members can propose conditions intended to protect public health, safety and welfare, but applicants must agree to those conditions for them to become enforceable. - 🚗 **Traffic safety must receive attention:** Members cited a previous rezoning proposal along U.S. 15-501 near Powell Place, questioning whether developers should provide preliminary traffic circulation information before receiving favorable recommendations. - 📊 **Better documentation expected:** Lewis emphasized that staff should provide clearer recommendations, explain unresolved issues and ensure Planning Board members have sufficient information to evaluate projects. ### Planning Board Authority and Responsibilities - ⚖️ **Planning Board serves an advisory role:** Lewis reviewed North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 160D, explaining that the Planning Board makes recommendations while the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners retains final decision-making authority. - 📚 **Recommendations must connect to adopted plans:** Board members were encouraged to base their findings on the town's Future Land Use Plan, transportation policies, infrastructure priorities and other adopted planning documents. - 📝 **More detailed advisory statements encouraged:** Lewis provided examples showing how zoning recommendations should explain consistency or inconsistency with adopted plans, rather than relying on vague conclusions or unsupported objections. - 🗣️ **Planning Board should not simply rubber-stamp staff recommendations:** Lewis encouraged members to question staff conclusions, develop independent recommendations and propose alternative advisory statements when appropriate. - ⏳ **Board can postpone decisions:** Members confirmed they can table proposals when additional information is necessary. However, state-law procedures can allow applications to advance to commissioners without a Planning Board recommendation after the applicable review period. Lewis cited a possible 60- or 90-day period but did not confirm the precise deadline. - 📞 **Staff available for individual consultations:** Lewis offered to meet with board members to answer questions before meetings. He encouraged members to raise important questions again during public meetings so everyone receives the same information. ### Upcoming Planning Initiatives - 🏙️ **Downtown master plan beginning:** Pittsboro is launching a downtown master planning initiative, with Theresa Thompson leading the effort. The Planning Board will receive updates and participate in reviewing the resulting plan. - 🚦 **Transportation plan needs modernization:** Lewis identified updating Pittsboro's Comprehensive Transportation Plan as a priority, noting that the existing document is more than 10 years old. - 🌱 **Planning emphasizes responsible growth:** Lewis described the town's planning priorities as protecting public health and safety, preserving community character, safeguarding natural resources and coordinating development with infrastructure investments. - 🏡 **Housing variety and infrastructure capacity:** The presentation emphasized evaluating development proposals based on housing diversity, neighborhood compatibility and whether water, sewer and transportation systems can accommodate future growth. - 📅 **Earlier agenda communication promised:** Lewis wants Planning Board members to receive advance notice of upcoming agenda items, more complete supporting documents and opportunities to request additional information or training. ### Meeting-Specific Developments - 🚫 **Development application withdrawn from the agenda:** Lewis explained that an applicant requested removal of a development proposal after staff initially recommended denial. The applicant wanted additional time to revise the proposal and potentially obtain a favorable recommendation with fewer conditions. - 🪑 **Possible Planning Board membership changes:** One member's term expires in December and may be renewed. Another extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) representative appointment requires action by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners. A new member could potentially join in December. - 🎓 **Training focused on better decision-making:** Much of the meeting consisted of a presentation explaining planning laws, staff responsibilities, development review procedures, legally supportable recommendations and ways board members can participate more effectively. - 🗺️ **More follow-up on commissioner decisions:** Lewis wants to inform Planning Board members about final actions taken by the Board of Commissioners, including when recommendations are accepted, modified or rejected. - 🗳️ **No development approvals:** The meeting included no action items, and the board did not vote on any rezoning or development applications. - 🎤 **No public comments:** No residents signed up to speak during the public comment period. - 👻 **Downtown Spirit Tour mentioned:** During board comments, members discussed the upcoming downtown Spirit Tour, scheduled for October 23–25. Participants indicated tickets might be sold out, although a waiting list and possible last-minute openings were mentioned. - ✅ **Meeting adjourned:** Following the training presentation and brief board comments, members voted to adjourn. ### 🔍 Overall Takeaway - 🏛️ A new direction for Pittsboro's Planning Department: The October 19 meeting signaled Kevin Lewis' intention to improve development review procedures, strengthen communication between staff and the Planning Board, and provide residents with earlier access to development information. - 🚧 Significant planning changes lie ahead: The comprehensive UDO overhaul, conservation subdivision revisions, downtown master plan and transportation plan update could influence Pittsboro's development patterns, infrastructure investments and neighborhood character for years to come. - 📣 The central issue is transparency and accountability: Board members repeatedly emphasized the importance of receiving complete development proposals, understanding traffic and safety implications, minimizing unresolved conditions and giving residents meaningful opportunities to participate before recommendations are forwarded to elected commissioners. - ⭐ Most important item: Pittsboro's new planning director is promising a more transparent, thorough and predictable development review process at a time when the town is preparing major revisions to the regulations governing future growth. youtube.com/live/Zm9Rimf1lZo…

🏛️ Pittsboro Board of Commissioners 10.12.26 Meeting Summary 🏗️ Chatham Park South Village Development - 🏘️ **Major residential development proposed:** Chatham Park and Southern Land Company presented plans for approximately 1,400–1,450 homes in South Village, significantly below the roughly 3,500 units permitted under existing zoning. - 🏬 **Mixed-use commercial center:** The development includes plans for up to 325,000 square feet of nonresidential space, creating opportunities for shopping, services and other commercial activities. - ⛳ **Private golf course, public neighborhood:** Southern Land Company confirmed the residential community will not be gated, although the golf club will remain private. Developers emphasized walkability, neighborhood connections and recreational amenities. - 🏠 **Eleven housing types:** Developers plan to incorporate 11 different residential housing types throughout the community to provide variety in neighborhood design. - 💰 **Developer promises financial commitment:** Southern Land Company founder and CEO Tim Downey pledged to personally support the project's financing, saying the company would not need bank loans or outside investment funds to complete its commitments. - 🌳 **Environmental protection measures:** Plans include a 300-foot buffer along much of Roberson Creek, protection of approximately 31,000 linear feet of streams, and efforts to minimize grading, tree removal and water pollution. - 🌿 **Golf course environmental certification:** Developers intend to pursue Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program certification and employ an environmental specialist throughout design and construction. - 🚶 **Greenway relocation remains unresolved:** Approximately 1.8 miles of proposed greenway would be relocated because its original alignment conflicts with the golf course. The final route has not been determined. - 🚒 **Public facilities:** Plans incorporate a potential fire station location and a roughly 50-acre public park. Chatham County Schools indicated it does not require a school site within the proposed development area. - 🏡 **Affordable housing obligations:** Chatham Park's 7.5% affordable housing requirement would generate an estimated 95 affordable apartments and 11 affordable single-family units associated with this development. Most would be provided elsewhere within Chatham Park. - 📅 **Decision expected in November:** Commissioners discussed the section design plans but did not approve them. A two-week public comment period was scheduled to begin October 13, with a potential vote in November. 🚗 Transportation, Roads and Infrastructure - 🛣️ **Chatham Parkway construction ahead of schedule:** Developers reported that the roadway connecting U.S. 64 Business and U.S. 15-501 was expected to be completed in approximately seven to eight months. - 🚦 **Future traffic congestion raises concerns:** Transportation modeling identified potential capacity problems on East Street, Chatham Parkway, Moncure-Pittsboro Road and other major corridors as development continues. - 📊 **Traffic studies requested:** Commissioners questioned whether traffic impact analyses should be completed before South Village receives approval rather than waiting until preliminary subdivision plans are submitted. - ⚠️ **Unfunded roads complicate traffic projections:** Commissioners learned that some transportation models assume the construction of roads that currently lack funding. They requested updated analysis excluding those projects. - 💵 **Road improvement costs remain uncertain:** Town staff said responsibility for funding future transportation improvements, including cost-sharing arrangements, has not yet been established. - 🚑 **Emergency response concerns:** Commissioners questioned whether future congestion could affect fire and emergency response times, particularly as development expands. - 🚧 **Western bypass access:** Commissioners discussed the need for additional access from the U.S. 64 bypass to serve future development southwest of downtown Pittsboro. - 🚰 **Major sewer construction:** A 36-inch sewer force main along U.S. 15-501 is under construction, with completion anticipated in the third quarter of 2027. - 💧 **Additional water infrastructure:** A 12-inch water line is being installed along Chatham Parkway, while another 36-inch line along Moncure-Pittsboro Road is expected to begin construction in the second quarter of 2027. - 💲 **Long-term financial impact under review:** Developers and town staff are preparing a fiscal impact analysis that includes future infrastructure maintenance costs and the establishment of financial reserves. 🏠 Roberts Run Affordable Housing Development - ✅ **72-townhome subdivision approved:** Commissioners approved the preliminary plat for Roberts Run, a Chatham Habitat for Humanity development near Robert Street and I.E. Taylor Road. - 📍 **Project location:** The approximately 25.91-acre property is located south of East Street and north of Roberson Creek. - 🏘️ **Residential density:** The development proposes 72 townhomes at approximately 2.8 dwelling units per acre. - 🌲 **Open space and greenways:** Plans include approximately 7.29 acres of open space, additional greenway easements, pedestrian paths and sidewalks. - 🚶 **Pedestrian connections:** The subdivision will feature a 10-foot multiuse path, internal sidewalks and connections toward the Roberson Creek greenway network. - 📆 **More than a decade in development:** Habitat representatives said the organization purchased the property in 2015 and expressed enthusiasm about reaching the preliminary approval stage. - 🏗️ **Construction timeline:** Groundbreaking has not been scheduled. Construction drawings and additional approvals must be completed first. - 👏 **Strong commissioner support:** Board members praised Habitat's efforts to provide compact, attainable housing in downtown Pittsboro. ### 🚌 Pittsboro Transportation on Demand - 🚐 **New transportation service launched:** The mayor announced that Pittsboro Transportation on Demand, known as Pittsboro TOD, is operational. - 💵 **$5 rides:** Residents can request transportation through an app, with pickup and transportation to another destination for a reported $5 fare. - 📱 **Additional information forthcoming:** The town plans to provide more details about operating hours, app instructions and service availability. - 🔄 **Change from original trolley concept:** The transportation program evolved from a proposed trolley system into an on-demand microtransit service. ### 🗺️ New Interactive Development Map - 💻 **Public development-tracking tool introduced:** Town staff demonstrated an interactive online map designed to help residents follow development proposals and projects throughout Pittsboro. - 🏗️ **Project information available:** Users can select developments to view locations, descriptions, parcel information and project status. - 📍 **Town boundaries identified:** The map distinguishes Pittsboro's municipal limits from its extraterritorial jurisdiction. - 🔎 **Additional features planned:** Staff are developing a major subdivision layer and hope to incorporate site plans, infrastructure projects and greenway information. - 💬 **Residents can submit feedback:** An online form allows users to ask questions, recommend improvements and communicate with development services staff. - 🔗 **County development information linked:** The town's website also provides access to Chatham County's development map. 🏛️ Board Appointments and Planning Committees - 🤝 **Affordable housing liaison:** Commissioner Foley was appointed the town's representative to the Chatham County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. - 🌳 **Parks and recreation liaison:** Commissioner Huninger was appointed as the Board of Commissioners' liaison to Pittsboro's Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. - 📈 **Economic development steering committee approved:** Commissioners appointed members to a committee supporting the town's strategic economic development plan, covering healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, downtown development and other economic priorities. - 🏙️ **Downtown master plan committee approved:** Commissioners approved an amended steering committee roster, adding engineering expertise and a student representative while adjusting membership. - 👷 **Civil engineer added:** Landon Lovelace, president of Underfoot Engineering, requested and received support for joining the downtown master plan steering committee. He cited his experience with infrastructure, stormwater, roads and development. - 🎓 **Youth representation:** Student representative London Crowley was added to the downtown master plan committee. - 🗓️ **Temporary advisory committee:** Town staff indicated the downtown master plan steering committee is expected to meet approximately three or four times before completing its assignment. 🗣️ Public Comments - 🅿️ **Downtown parking concerns:** Longtime resident Vicky Old urged commissioners to develop additional downtown parking, particularly to accommodate older residents and support local businesses. - 🚶 **Accessibility and downtown vitality:** Old emphasized the importance of safe, convenient access to downtown as Pittsboro grows. - 🏗️ **Engineering perspective requested:** Landon Lovelace advocated including a licensed civil engineer on the downtown master plan committee to help evaluate infrastructure capacity, costs and project feasibility. ### 🌎 Environmental and Community Updates - ⚡ **New electric vehicle charging station:** A commissioner reported that an eight-port DC fast-charging station had been installed at a Refuel location along U.S. 15-501 north of Pittsboro. It was not yet operational at the time of the meeting. - 🌡️ **County climate planning:** The Chatham County Climate Advisory Committee continues reviewing potential data center standards and working with consultants on the county's Climate Action Plan. - 🍂 **Leave the Leaves campaign:** Commissioners praised the town's public education campaign promoting environmentally beneficial yard practices. - 🚲 **Bicycle safety outreach:** Pittsboro Police Department received praise for a bicycle safety video encouraging children to wear helmets. - 🛠️ **Google Fiber issues addressed:** Commissioners thanked town staff for responding quickly to residents' concerns involving Google Fiber work. - 🙏 **Public apology:** Commissioner Bonds apologized to Parks Director Katie Keller for comments made during previous meetings, acknowledging that his language should have been more respectful. 💼 Business and Economic Development - 💰 **Small business grants announced:** The Chatham Chamber of Commerce will begin accepting applications October 15 for 10 grants of $2,500 each, funded by the Duke Energy Foundation. - 🏪 **Grant eligibility:** Established businesses may apply regardless of chamber membership. Funding is intended to help businesses modernize operations and pursue new opportunities. - 📊 **Pittsboro ABC Board reports positive results:** A commissioner reported a clean annual audit and continued sales growth, noting the town's expansion and second ABC store. - 🌾 **Leadership Chatham:** The program is celebrating its 21st year with 21 participants, including recent visits to local farms and the Pittsboro Farmers Market. - 🎃 **Downtown Halloween decorations:** Commissioners praised downtown organizations and town staff for seasonal decorations and improvements. ### 🎉 Recognitions and Upcoming Events - 🧘 **Pittsboro Yoga ribbon cutting:** The mayor attended the September 18 opening celebration at The Plant. - 📚 **Dolly Parton Day:** Pittsboro celebrated its first Dolly Parton Day on September 25 with a library reading event in partnership with the Chatham Education Foundation. - 🎖️ **World War II veteran honored:** The mayor proclaimed October 9 as Dr. George Chaw Day in recognition of the Pittsboro resident's 104th birthday and military service. - 🎡 **Chatham County Fair:** The mayor highlighted strong community participation and attendance at the annual fair. - 🏡 **Habitat for Humanity gala:** Commissioners attended Habitat's inaugural gala, praising community participation and efforts to expand affordable housing. - 🗳️ **Election integrity statement:** Commissioner Foley called for respect for election workers, lawful vote counting and certified election results, while expressing concern about potential interference by outside authorities. - 📅 **Legislative forum scheduled:** A state legislative forum featuring Sen. Natalie Murdock and Rep. Robert Reives was announced for December 17, from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a local government appreciation reception. 📌 Key Takeaways - 🏗️ **Chatham Park South Village was the meeting's most consequential discussion**, with commissioners examining housing density, environmental protections, traffic congestion and long-term infrastructure costs. - 🏠 **Roberts Run received preliminary plat approval**, advancing a 72-townhome Habitat for Humanity project near downtown. - 🚗 **Transportation planning remains a major unresolved issue**, particularly how future road improvements will be funded and when traffic mitigation must occur. - 🗺️ **The interactive development map offers residents a new way to monitor growth**, with additional information expected as the system develops. - 🚌 **Pittsboro's $5 on-demand transportation service is operational**, marking a milestone in the town's local mobility efforts. - 📆 **November will be important for South Village**, as commissioners are expected to revisit the section design plans after receiving public comments and additional information. youtube.com/watch?v=lSv6hUo2…

How to Lead in Athletics: AD Huddle with hosts Cameron Vernon & BJ Condron and special guest Kyle Ward - 10.11.26 🎙️ AD Huddle — October 11, 2026: Hosts Cameron Vernon and BJ Condron welcome special guest Kyle Ward, longtime educator, basketball coach, former Graham High School athletic director and Alamance-Burlington school board candidate. 🏀 A Career Dedicated to Education and Athletics: Ward reflects on more than 30 years in coaching and education, including his journey from recreation basketball coach to high school athletic director. 🤝 The Importance of Mentorship: Cameron Vernon shares how Ward mentored him early in his coaching career. Ward emphasizes the need for experienced coaches to guide younger educators and address coaching shortages. 🏫 The Demands of Athletic Administration: Ward explains why athletic directors face year-round responsibilities, including scheduling, facility management, parent concerns, student safety and administrative duties. 📈 Growth and Changes in Alamance County: The discussion explores population growth, shifting school demographics, enrollment changes and the challenges of school redistricting. 💰 Teacher Pay and School Facilities: Ward and the hosts examine teacher compensation, local salary supplements, aging facilities and the importance of maintaining safe learning environments. 🔧 Career and Technical Education: Ward advocates expanding opportunities in skilled trades, welding, fire-service training, dual enrollment and other career pathways beyond traditional four-year college degrees. 🗳️ Kyle Ward's School Board Campaign: Ward explains why he is running for the Alamance-Burlington Board of Education and how his extensive experience in public schools could inform education policy and decision-making. 👥 School Board Accountability: Ward emphasizes that board members should regularly visit schools, communicate with teachers and administrators, and understand the daily challenges facing students and staff. ⚖️ Student-Athlete Transfers and Recruiting: The conversation addresses shared-housing affidavits, school-transfer eligibility and concerns about improper recruiting. Ward calls for meaningful consequences when recruiting violations are substantiated. 🛡️ Safety and Relationships in School Athletics: Ward identifies student safety as a major challenge for athletic directors and stresses that successful coaches must build genuine relationships with their athletes. 🏆 Basketball, Coaching and the GOAT Debate: During a rapid-fire segment, Ward discusses his favorite aspects of coaching, memorable gymnasiums, athletic equipment and the Michael Jordan versus LeBron James debate. ❤️ Family Support Behind a Coaching Career: Ward reflects on his wife's unwavering support throughout his years in education, coaching and athletic administration. 🗳️ The Importance of Voting: The hosts encourage viewers to participate in local elections and make informed decisions about candidates for public office. 🎥 Produced by the Chatham Journal: Filmed by Gene Galin for the Chatham Journal, the October 11 episode offers perspectives on high school athletics, educational leadership, public-school challenges and community involvement. youtube.com/live/3sEjc3tOjjs

From Seaforth to @UNC_Basketball's new era: Jarin Stevenson embraces Malone's defense-first challenge Charlotte, NC - Jarin Stevenson is preparing to become a more versatile player and a more vocal leader for North Carolina, embracing new coach Michael Malone's defense-first approach while helping a largely rebuilt roster learn what he considers the essentials of Carolina basketball: toughness, extra work and accountability. Speaking at ACC Tipoff on Oct. 7, the former Seaforth High School standout described a program undergoing substantial change, from the structure of practices to the responsibilities players carry at both ends of the floor. For Stevenson, the transition offers a chance to sharpen his shooting, defend multiple positions and pursue his NBA ambitions close to the family and friends who have supported him. chathamjournal.com/2026/10/1…

AD Huddle, October 11 teapawt.net/i/broadcasts/1lKQRWavw…

5 Unbelievable Takeaways From Michael Malone's #UNC #TarHeels Coaching Debut On October 9th at the Greensboro Coliseum, the Michael Malone era of North Carolina basketball tipped off with an unmistakable shift in operational culture. Before a single second ticked off the clock in UNC's 88-70 exhibition victory over USC, courtside observers witnessed an immediate departure from standard collegiate routine: minute-by-minute printed warm-up scripts taped directly to the basket posts, followed by a full-squad defensive communication and sliding drill-a pregame sight virtually unheard of in over three decades of covering college hoops. When the ball was finally tipped, the action on the floor mirrored that meticulous preparation. What looked on the surface like a comfortable 18-point exhibition win was actually a masterclass in tactical adaptability, analytical discipline, and roster depth. While preseason exhibitions can easily be dismissed, the tape and shot-tracking metrics from Greensboro revealed foundational shifts in how this program will function. From surprising backcourt dynamic shifts to high-level defensive efficiency, here are the five key takeaways from Michael Malone's Tar Heel debut. 1. The Backcourt Anomaly: An 18-Point Blowout Driven by Unexpected Depth The most staggering statistical anomaly of North Carolina's 88-point performance was that starting guards Terrence Brown and Matt Able were functionally nonexistent on the scoreboard for over 38 minutes. Brown-who arrives in Chapel Hill after averaging 19.9 points per game at Utah as a high-usage, primary ball-handler-looked every bit like a player adjusting to off-ball geometry surrounded by elite talent for the first time in his college career. Yet, far from triggering an offensive collapse, the Tar Heels blew open a close game in the second half. UNC demonstrated that under Malone's system, a quiet night from the starting backcourt isn't a death sentence; it's simply an invitation for bench energy and frontcourt depth to shoulder the burden. * Combined Backcourt Production: Terrence Brown and Matt Able scored just 5 total points on a frugal 8 combined shot attempts. * Late-Game Breakthrough: Brown was held completely scoreless until sinking a free throw with 1:42 remaining, scoring his only field goals in the final 16 seconds of action. * Role Transition: Brown's passive stat line reflects a fundamental schematic shift from being Utah's absolute focal point to learning how to operate off the ball within a loaded Carolina lineup. 2. Isaiah Dennis's Revenge Game: "100% Personal" If the starting backcourt was quiet, Isaiah Denis was loud. Coming off the bench to deliver 14 points and 4 rebounds, Denis played with a frantic, vindictive edge that reshaped the game's momentum. For context, Denis's performance was born out of deep frustration: during an eight-minute locker room conversation before last season's VCU game, Denis opened up about the emotional toll of unfulfilled promises regarding playing time and role expectations under the previous regime, despite executing every directive asked of him. Rather than jumping into the transfer portal, Denis opted to stay in Chapel Hill, biding his time for a fresh start. When his number was called against USC, he channeled that stored frustration into an electric outing. In the postgame locker room, when asked if this breakout performance carried emotional weight beyond standard exhibition reps, Dennis didn't hesitate with his assessment. "100% personal." 3. Jarin Stevenson's Junior-Year Surge in a Sophomore Body Jarin Stevenson delivered the game's defining performance, erupting for a game-high 25 points and 10 rebounds. Stevenson was a flawless tactical weapon in the second half, pouring in 16 points on 6-for-6 shooting from the floor. For the game, he finished 8-for-14 overall and 4-for-7 from beyond the arc. Because Stevenson reclassified early prior to entering college, his physical frame and processing speed are now catching up-he is essentially playing with the composure and physical maturity of a seasoned junior despite his sophomore classification. Tactically, Coach Malone unlocked Stevenson by deploying him as a stretch backup '5' (center). Rather than forcing traditional low-post back-downs, Malone leveraged Stevenson's perimeter range to pull USC's primary rim protector, Kofi, out to the three-point line. By forcing Kofi to defend in space, Stevenson completely disrupted USC's defensive geometry, eventually fouling the Trojan big man out of the contest and opening up massive drive-and-kick lanes for Carolina's slashers. 4. Maximo Adams: Raw Energy, Flexing Screens, and Non-Stat-Sheet Impact Freshman Maximo Adams injected immediate chaos into the contest off the bench, logging 11 points and 6 rebounds. However, his box-score line barely scratches the surface of his actual footprint. Adams possesses an unfiltered, infectious swagger that altered the emotional temperature inside the Greensboro Coliseum, firing up the 7,892 fans in attendance during a decisive second-half surge. Coach Malone made it clear postgame that he has zero intention of reining in Adams's aggression. Instead, Malone is empowering Adams to embrace his natural moxy-specifically through his signature "flexing screens," where the freshman lays a punishing physical screen on a defender while simultaneously flexing his biceps and screaming to set a tone. * Relentless Glass Activity: Anticipated a fast-break miss from 6-foot-9 Neo Avdalas, crashing the paint to finish an instinctive putback layup. * Defensive Lock-Down: Anchored a high-intensity defensive possession that completely smothered USC's set, forcing a shot-clock violation. * Crowd Activation: Combined physical screens with audible flexing, high-fiving courtside spectators and electrifying the bench during UNC's decisive run. 5. Coaching Culture Shift: Early Timeouts and Direct Accountability Michael Malone's bench demeanor provided a fascinating look at elite NBA accountability translated to the college game. The contrast was stark: when subtle defensive lapses occurred, Malone didn't let them slide. Calling early timeouts in both halves-at the 2:59 mark in the first half and 2:38 into the second-after defensive turnovers led directly to open USC three-pointers. On both occasions, Malone's body language spoke volumes: he looked like he was going to stare paint off the wall, huddled intensely with his assistant coaches for 35 seconds, and then stepped into the player huddle to deliver calm, laser-focused teaching points. The micro-adjustments paid immediate analytical dividends. At halftime, Malone adjusted Carolina's screen navigation, instructing guards to fight over the top of ball screens and funnel USC drivers directly into the length of Sayon Keita and Jarin Stevenson. The shot-distribution tracking metrics paint a staggering picture of this schematic shift: after settling for perimeter looks and firing 26 of their first 42 shots from three-point range, UNC pivoted to attempt just 5 three-pointers over their final 17 shots, attacking the paint with relentless force. This interior pivot fueled an extraordinary defensive-to-offensive feedback loop. UNC executed an 8-straight "kill" run-eight consecutive possessions featuring a defensive stop paired with a scoring conversion-turning a 53-51 deficit at the 12:43 mark into a game-closing 37-17 explosion. The immediate credibility Malone holds was captured perfectly postgame: as Malone walked down the tunnel, former Tar Heel star and NBA veteran Ty Lawson was leaning over the railing in a Carolina jersey, waiting to embrace his former Denver Nuggets coach. In the press room, Malone was as unfiltered and candid as his sideline coaching. "We do not want to be a mid-range shooting team. It's the worst shot in the game. We want to live at the rim, we want to live at the foul line, and we want to get quality threes up." "[When you're happy with what you did offensively, that also means your] defense sucked... was horseshit." Promising Signs for the Long Haul While an October 9th exhibition is merely a single data point in a marathon season-and frontcourt depth management will remain an active puzzle as player eligibility situations like Cameron Vance's play out-Michael Malone's debut delivered undeniably promising signals. The Tar Heels displayed structural connectivity, instant accountability, and a willingness to defend that directly generated winning offense. As Coach Malone continues to hone his rotation and instill his uncompromising standards, the foundational transformation is already underway. For Tar Heel nation, the tantalizing question remains: how high is this team's absolute ceiling once Terrence Brown and Matt Able find their offensive rhythm within Malone's high-octane, defense-first system?

Governor Josh Stein signed the “Relief at the Pump” bill today, Friday, Oct. 9. It suspends North Carolina’s 41-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline and diesel beginning Saturday, Oct. 10, through Nov. 30. Prices may take time to fall as stations sell fuel purchased with the tax included. The measure is House Bill 3, approved Oct. 7 by the N.C. House, 111–1, and Senate, 41–0.

Mike Malone on the @UNC_Basketball coaching job: It's more than just basketball! - 10.7.26 at #ACCTipOff 📷 Michael Malone Discusses UNC Basketball, Recruiting, Team Development and Coaching Philosophy 📷 International recruiting whirlwind: UNC head coach Michael Malone described extensive international travel during his first three months, including trips to France, Spain, Portugal, Turkey and Mexico. An impromptu trip to Spain helped UNC recruit Sion Kéïta, illustrating the differences between college and NBA coaching. 📷 Adjusting to college basketball: Malone called his first two months a whirlwind of recruiting, hiring assistants, assembling a roster and adjusting to Chapel Hill. He said coaching on the practice court remains the most enjoyable and rewarding part of his job. 📷 Cameron Boozer's eligibility situation: The transcript identifies the player as Cameron F., whose eligibility remains unresolved. Malone confirmed the player would miss Friday's exhibition despite practicing daily and expressed hope for a prompt resolution. The player's full name and status should be verified before publication. 📷 Managing young players' workloads: Malone emphasized that coaching 17- and 18-year-olds requires greater attention to academic schedules, recovery, physical demands and personal well-being than coaching NBA professionals. 📷 Patience with player development: Malone acknowledged having to adjust his expectations after 25 years in the NBA. College players require more individual instruction, repetition and encouragement, but he finds their improvement particularly rewarding. 📷 Positionless basketball philosophy: UNC will use multiple players to initiate offense rather than relying on a traditional point guard. Terrence Brown, Henri Veesaar and several other guards and wings are expected to share ball-handling responsibilities. 📷 Defense and rebounding come first: Malone said his primary concerns are defensive stops, rebounding, limiting turnovers, sharing the basketball and improving teammates rather than determining who plays specific positions. 📷 Three exhibition games provide valuable tests: UNC's exhibitions against USC, Indiana and Charlotte will allow Malone to evaluate combinations, experiment with strategies and establish the team's identity before the regular season. 📷 Reconnecting with Carolina basketball tradition: Malone wants to honor UNC's history by welcoming former Tar Heels back to Chapel Hill, including coaches Wes Miller and King Rice, while maintaining relationships with former players. 📷 Former players reunite: More than 150 former Carolina basketball players attended a reunion organized to strengthen connections across generations. Malone particularly enjoyed meeting Charlie Scott, Jimmy Black and Bobby Jones. 📷 Former Tar Heels remain involved: Malone praised the willingness of former players, including Tyler Hansbrough, to attend practices and support the program. He believes their involvement helps current players and recruits understand Carolina's basketball tradition. 📷 Recruiting 'connectors': Malone wants selfless players who make teammates better. He cited LeBron James and Nikola Jokić as examples of elite players who elevate everyone around them. 📷 Leadership remains a work in progress: With 11 newcomers and five returning players, UNC is still developing its leadership structure. Malone wants players to hold one another accountable rather than depending entirely on the coaching staff. 📷 Different leadership styles are valuable: Malone said effective leaders do not necessarily need to be vocal. Some lead through their actions, while others motivate teammates through communication and accountability. 📷 High expectations for Neoklis Avdalas: Malone praised the Greek transfer's size, court vision, passing ability and unselfishness. He believes Avdalas can become an important contributor after improving his strength and conditioning. 📷 Sion Kéïta's impressive adjustment: Malone described the young international recruit's transition from Mali and Barcelona to Chapel Hill as remarkable. He praised his maturity, adaptability, length, athletic ability and potential. 📷 Jarin Stevenson's offensive development: Malone wants Stevenson to become more aggressive offensively through transition opportunities, post mismatches, offensive rebounds and attacks toward the basket. 📷 Respecting individual personalities: Malone emphasized that Stevenson should not be forced into becoming an outspoken or emotional leader. Instead, the coaching staff wants him to demonstrate confidence and aggression through his performance. 📷 Practice statistics guide coaching: UNC charts practice performances, including shot attempts and turnovers, to identify improvement opportunities and hold players accountable. 📷 Playing fast without playing carelessly: Malone wants an up-tempo offense built around disciplined decisions. He emphasized that speed cannot come at the expense of ball security or shot selection. 📷 Turnovers are a major concern: Malone stressed that successful teams cannot afford self-inflicted mistakes, declaring, "Good teams don't beat themselves." 📷 Daily improvement over championship talk: Malone said UNC's primary objective is building winning habits through productive practices rather than repeatedly discussing championship aspirations. 📷 Preparing for postseason success: Malone believes consistent daily improvement will put the Tar Heels in a stronger position when conference tournament and postseason competition arrive. 📷 Official recruiting visits offer personal connections: Malone joked about recruits' appetites and the number of Chapel Hill restaurants he has visited. More importantly, he sees campus visits as opportunities for recruits and families to experience the program firsthand. 📷 Authenticity drives recruiting: Malone refuses to change his personality when recruits attend practice. He believes honesty, approachability and genuine relationships help prospective players determine whether UNC is the right fit. 📷 Lessons from an NBA championship: Drawing on his championship experience in Denver, Malone wants to establish a culture where players work extremely hard while enjoying basketball and their relationships with teammates. 📷 Influential coaching mentors: Malone credited his father, Jeff Van Gundy, Mike Brown, Monty Williams and Gregg Popovich with shaping his coaching philosophy. 📷 Defense and attention to detail: Malone identified Van Gundy's defensive principles and meticulous preparation as particularly influential in developing his own coaching approach. 📷 Empowering assistant coaches: Lessons from Mike Brown helped Malone understand the importance of trusting assistants, giving them meaningful responsibilities and allowing them to contribute to decisions. 📷 Gregg Popovich's lasting advice: Malone recalled Popovich encouraging him to remain authentic while ensuring players understand that demanding coaching comes from genuine care and respect. 📷 Overall takeaway: Malone's first UNC team will emphasize defensive accountability, rebounding, disciplined up-tempo basketball, unselfish play and daily improvement. Although eligibility questions, roster chemistry and leadership remain unresolved, Malone believes the program is making progress toward establishing a sustainable winning culture. youtube.com/watch?v=xkV94iv7…

North Carolina lawmakers passed legislation Wednesday temporarily eliminating the state’s motor fuel tax, cutting the tax to zero through Nov. 30, as drivers, farmers, and businesses continue to face elevated fuel prices. The House passed the measure 111-1, with Rep. Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford, casting the lone dissenting vote, while the Senate approved it unanimously, 41-0. The bill now heads to Governor Josh Stein’s desk for action. Once signed, the gas-tax suspension takes effect the following day and remains in place through Nov. 30. chathamjournal.com/2026/10/0…

Coach Wes Moore Wants Beyonce At Game, Jokes She Wrote "Drunk in Love" About Him. 38 years as a head coach, and the secret to success? Recruiting players who genuinely like each other. #CoachTips #Teamwork #Basketball

#UNC #TarHeels push No. 3 Notre Dame before Irish ground game takes over in 37-26 win Chapel Hill, NC - For a few rain-soaked minutes Saturday afternoon, North Carolina had No. 3 Notre Dame exactly where it wanted the Fighting Irish. The Tar Heels had erased most of a 14-point deficit. Jaden Jefferson had raced 98 yards with the second-half kickoff for a touchdown. Kenan Stadium had come alive, and what had looked like another comfortable afternoon for one of the nation's best teams suddenly had become a one-point game. Then Notre Dame demonstrated the difference between threatening an elite team and beating one. The Fighting Irish responded to North Carolina's surge by leaning on their offensive line, controlling the football and gradually wearing down the Tar Heels in a 37-26 victory Saturday at Kenan Stadium. Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr threw four touchdown passes and ran for another, freshman running back Jonaz Walton rushed for 120 yards, and the Irish piled up 475 yards of total offense while improving to 5-0. North Carolina fell to 2-2 overall and 0-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, but the final score told only part of the story. chathamjournal.com/2026/10/0…

Pittsboro weighs Town Hall’s identity, park’s future as growth reshapes the town Pittsboro, NC – Pittsboro commissioners moved toward a more traditional design for a new Town Hall while debating how quickly to advance plans for a major public park during a Sept. 28 special meeting that exposed competing views about civic identity, environmental stewardship and the town’s growth. The two projects would serve different purposes: one would house municipal government, while the other would provide access to approximately 72 acres of parkland. But both discussions centered on a common question: How should Pittsboro invest in public places that residents could use for generations? For Town Hall, commissioners largely favored further development of an architectural option featuring a gabled roof, residential-scale materials and traditional details. They also requested consideration of different colors, additional brick, clearer signage, pedestrian access and outdoor gathering spaces. chathamjournal.com/2026/09/3…