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    Republican lawmakers in North Carolina have proposed a bill that would enhance penalties for people wearing a mask during a crime or intentionally blocking traffic during protests. The bill passed its first committee on Tuesday. Critics say the law would make it illegal to wear a mask in public as a way to protect against COVID-19 or for other health reasons. Republican Sen. Buck Newton brushed off concerns that the law was overly broad. He said he expects authorities to use common sense. During public comment, several people said the “anti-protest bill” aimed to curb free speech.

    For the past two decades, the Carter Fold has been the linchpin of The Crooked Road — the state-supported effort designed to lure tourism dollars into this region — and a destination for music fans of all ages.

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