Duplin Journal Vol. 8, Issue 46 by North State Journal

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 46 | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

Contract awarded for bridge replacement, repairs Duplin County The bridge over CSX railroad tracks on U.S. 117 North, which dates back to 1936, will be replaced and the bridge on U.S. 117 South, which was built in 1958, will receive improvements according to an announcement made by the NC Department of transportation on Jan. 8. The contract for this projects was awarded to ST Wooten Corporation for $9.3 million. According to NCDOT contract crews can start as early as this spring. The projects are expected to be completed in the fall of 2026. DJS

MLK celebration in Warsaw this Sunday Warsaw The First Missionary Baptist Church of Warsaw will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on Sunday, Jan. 14. The worship service in honor of MLK starts at 10 a.m. with Jaki S. Green as the keynote speaker. The celebration will kick off with a Freedom Ride at the Kemba Center in Warsaw at 9:30 a.m.

Retiring Beulaville Police Chief honored

JAMIE ROGERS, who will retire as Beulaville’s police chief later this month, was honored with a surprise presentation featuring all of his badges throughout his 31-year law enforcement career at the Beulaville town board meeting on Jan. 8. The chief fought back tears as he reflected upon his career, starting with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and inspired by his father.

DA releases toxicology results on officer-involved shooting case

DJS

Farm Bureau Women’s Communications Boot Camp registration closes Jan. 29 Duplin County Registration for the NC Farm Bureau Women’s Communications Boot Camp class closes Jan. 29. The intensive training is open to all female members interested in building communication skills related to agriculture. The class will be April 1-4. DJS

ENA SELLERS | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Andrew Taylor, Faison Improvement Group president, requests the Board’s permission to host the Faison Farmers Parade at the board’s monthly meeting on Jan. 3.

Plans for farmers’ parade move forward Town accepts 100K donation to help with equipment purchases

Tri-County EMC releases scholarship application deadline Duplin County The application deadline for Tri-County Electric Membership Corporation Scholarships for seniors and non-traditional students is March 31. Applications can be picked up at any local high school or visiting tcemc.com/ community/youth-programs/ to apply online. DJS

ABBY CAVENAUGH | DUPLIN JOURNAL

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal FAISON - The Town of Faison held the board’s monthly meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 3. Among those in attendance was Andrew Taylor, Faison Improvement Group president who signed up for public comment. Taylor requested the Board’s permission to host the annual Faison Farmers Parade in March. Taylor shared that they hope

to make this year’s parade bigger and better, with more vendors, music, and entertainment and to “have something that’s more akin to the old market days,” said Taylor. Last year the parade was a big hit, with a lineup that went on for 47 minutes. “We would like to have permission to have the parade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the anticipation that it ends at 2 p.m.,” said Taylor. “Because we hung around until 2 p.m. last time, we want to make sure that they are safe when people cross See FAISON, page 3

Lanier’s autopsy results show presence of marijuana, PCP Duplin Journal WALLACE – The Office of District Attorney Ernie Lee issued a press release with the toxicology results for the James Lanier officer-involved shooting case on Jan. 8. Lanier, 36, of Rose Hill was shot and killed by an officer with the Wallace Police Department on Feb. 24, 2023, in the parking lot of the Express Mini Mart in Wallace. According to the DA’s press release, Lanier’s postmortem toxicology analysis showed elevated levels of THC and Phencyclidine, a street drug called angel dust or PCP. “These results help us understand Lanier’s behavior on February 24, 2023,” wrote Wallace Police Chief Jimmy Crayton in a media release about the findings, explaining that “angel dust is a well-known hallucinogenic that results in a sense of euphoria and omnipotence and gives the user what appears to be superhuman strength.”

According to law enforcement, body cam footage and video retrieved from local surveillance cameras presented as evidence, showed Lanier nearly naked “shoving and punching the officer” and “attempting to take the officer’s firearm. “The officer deployed his Electronic Control Device (Taser), but even though contact was made with Lanier, the Taser was ineffective. After retreating nearly one hundred feet, trying to escape the attack, and after Lanier tried to take the officer’s handgun, the officer discharged his weapon, fatally wounding Lanier. Combined with Lanier’s violent and erratic behavior, the ineffective Taser deployment led us to suspect that a controlled substance impaired Lanier’s mental and physical faculties.” After reviewing all the evidence in the investigation, Lee held a press conference on May 19, 2023, to release his findings and determined that Lanier’s death, while tragic, was justified because his actions caused the officer to believe it necessary to See TOXICOLOGY, page 6

Duplin Democrats welcome statewide candidates Governor, Lt. Governor candidates tout rural counties By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin Journal The Duplin County Democratic Party welcomed candidates for statewide offices to a meet and greet on Saturday night, Jan. 6, at the Country Squire in Warsaw. Mike Morgan, who retired in September as chief justice on the N.C. Supreme Court, is a native of New Bern who’s running for governor. Prior to the forum, he told the Duplin Journal that rural counties like Duplin are integral to the state.

“People in rural areas are the backbone of North Carolina.” Rachel Hunt, lieutenant governor candidate “We want to make sure rural North Carolina is not neglected,” he said. Sen. Rachel Hunt, who serves in the state senate for Mecklenburg County and is the daughter of former Governor Jim Hunt, is running for lieutenant governor. “I think all of rural North Carolina is made up of really great people,” she told the Duplin Journal. “Peo-

ple that are running for statewide office should never forget the rural areas that make this state great.” Duplin County Commissioner Wayne Branch served as emcee of the event. He encouraged those present to participate, and make their voices heard, especially in the upcoming election. “Our democracy thrives when its citizens actively participate, and joining the Democratic Party is a powerful way to contribute to the collective voice of the people,” he said. “The Democratic Party champions inclusivity, diversity, and social progress. By becoming a member, you align yourself with a party that values equal

opportunities for all.” Duplin County Democratic Party Chair Douglas Walter also took the opportunity to speak before the candidates took the floor. Walter said he was heartened to see so many faces at the event. “I can guarSee DEMOCRATS, page 6

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

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Neal Robbins, Publisher publisher@northstatejournal.com

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Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County: JAN. 11 x The Red Cross will be holding a blood drive on Jan. 11, at Beulaville Presbyterian Church, located at 205 East Main St. x First Missionary Baptist Church of Warsaw worship service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will be on Sunday, Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. with Jaki S. Green as the keynote speaker. x The Wallace town council meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., in the council chambers at 316 East Murray St., Wallace. For more information, call 910-2854136. x Kids can enjoy story time at Thelma Dingus Bryant Library in Wallace. The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 11, featuring a reading of Snowflakes.

x Learn how to read nutrition facts, labels and meal planning with the NC Cooperative Extension Duplin County Center on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. from Jan. 11 through Feb. 15 and learn what it means to “Go Med.” The cost is $20 for the series. Visit go.ncsu. edu/duplin-mim for more information. JAN. 16

To place a classified or display ad: 919-663-3232; Fax: 919-663-4042

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x The Duplin County Board of Education regular business meeting has been rescheduled to Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. in the O.P. Johnson Education Building. x Kids can enjoy story time at Thelma Dingus Bryant Library in Wallace. The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18, featuring a reading of Bundle Up.

x The Duplin County Board of County Commissioners was rescheduled to Tuesday, Jan. 16. The Board of County Commissioners meets the first and third Monday of each month at 224 Seminary St., Kenansville, at 6 p.m. For more information, call 910-2962100.

JAN. 25

x The Magnolia town board was rescheduled to Tuesday, Jan. 16, 6 p.m., at 108 Taylor St., Magnolia. For more information, call 910-289-3205.

x Thigpen Well Drilling presents A Southern Smoke Night on Jan. 27, from 6 – 11:30 p.m., at Tara Creek located at 136 Robert Hobbs Rd., Faison. Enjoy dinner, dancing, and drinks

JAN. 18

x Kids can enjoy story time at Thelma Dingus Bryant Library in Wallace. The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25, featuring a reading of Penguins and Polar Bears. JAN. 27

and musical entertainment by The Band of Oz. For ticket information, call 910-441-9715. JAN. 29 x Registration for the NC Farm Bureau Women’s Communications Boot Camp class closes Jan. 29. The intensive training is open to all female members interested in building communication skills related to agriculture. The class will be April 1-4. JAN. 31 x The Thelma Dingus Bryant Library in Wallace is hosting a pet food drive to benefit Duplin County Animal Services now through Jan. 31. Please drop off bags or cans of pet food, towels and blankets at the library, located at 409 W. Main St., Wallace.

CRIME LOG JAN. 4

x Shaerod Lamar Graham, 33, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and booked into jail on charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and discharging a firearm into occupied property. His bond amount has been set at $200,000. x Johnnie Ray Tann, 55, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and booked into jail on charges of assault on a female and resisting a public officer. His bond amount has been set at $3,000. x James Nathan Humphrey, 33, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and booked into jail on charges of boat access area other purpose, resisting a public officer, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II controlled substance, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling place for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is also facing charges from the

Onslow County authorities, of misdemeanor child abuse, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while license revoked, not impaired by alcohol or drugs. His bond amount has been set at $32,000. JAN. 5

x Matthew Merritt, 49, was charged by the Wallace Police Department and booked into jail for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. His bond amount has been set at $1,000. x Willie Lamont Wells, 48, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and booked into jail for assault on a government official or employee. His bond amount has been set at $500. x Roy Virgil Nease, 58, faces multiple charges from the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, including driving while impaired, possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling place for controlled substances, simple possession of

Schedule VI controlled substance, possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond amount has been set at $55,000. x Daniel Walter England, arrested by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, faces charges of boat access area other purpose and resisting a public officer. He is currently held without bond. x Kevin Daryl Everett, 48, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office with various offenses, including maintaining a vehicle or dwelling place for controlled substances, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver cocaine, felony possession of cocaine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II controlled substance, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, resisting a public officer, and simple possession of Schedule IV controlled substance. He is currently held without bond.

JAN. 6

x Arthur Benjamin Griffin, 47, was charged by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office with several offenses, including possession of a firearm by a felon, carrying a concealed gun, simple possession of Schedule VI controlled substance, possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and driving while license revoked, not impaired by alcohol or drugs. His bond amount has been set at $17,000.

To report crime anonymously, call the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 910-372-9202 or you may also submit information at cc.southernsoftware. com/tipsubmission/ through the Duplin County Citizens Connect website.

MARRIAGE LICENSES ISSUED IN DUPLIN COUNTY Anita Marie Savage, Register Of Deeds Issued 30 Marriage Licenses In December. They Are As Follows:

Lopez Hercules, Warsaw;

Sasser, Chinquapin;

x Wendys Jakelin Cruz-Ayala, Fayetteville, and Jeferson Ricardo andrade Barahona, Fayetteville;

x Wilman Ansoni Perez Rivera, Kenansville, and Denia Judith Pacheco Mejia, Kenansville;

x Joseph Dale Chadwick, Rose Hill, and Heather Allayne Johnson, Rose Hill;

x Jennifer Rena Smith, Willard, and Kentrel Demetri Williams, Willard;

x Vinicio Anibal Hernandez Jocol, Mount Olive, and Gloria Elenai Matul, Mount Olive;

x Christopher Logan Mcgee, Pink Hill, and Grace Marie Stephenson, Beulaville;

x Lizbed Molina Torres, Clinton, and Dany Ismael Figueroa Figueroa, Clinton;

x Russell Morris Scott Jr., Wilmington, and Ivy Walker Bailey, Wallace;

x Horace Ray Ezzell, Warsaw, and Katherine Jean Thur Allison, Kenansville;

x Natalie Page Raynor, Aberdeen, and Bobby Ryan Mills Ii, Cameron;

x Adriana Santibanez Lopez, Magnolia, and Jonas Gomez Villa, Arizona;

x Haley Dawn Rivenbark, Wallace, and Briley Wilton Kelley, Wallace;

x Billy Welburn Ivey, Wallace, and Brandi Leigh Burroughs, Mount Olive;

x Pilar Moreno Banegas, Warsaw, and Maria Juana

x Janett Likens Drake Sholar, Wallace, and Robert Rex

x Kaitlyn Nicole Sholar, Wallace, and Matthew Alan

x Oscar Armando Figueroa Morel, Wallace, and Dunia Suyapa Hercules Paz, Wallace;

Medlin, Rocky Point; x Naderge Valcourt, Warsaw, and Omel Noel, Warsaw; x Charles Mitchell Robinson, Rose Hill, and Lois Johnson Mobley, Rose Hill; x Curtia Shalove MurrayDavis, Kenansville, and Lavar Eugene Edwards, Richlands;

x Megan Leighann Konat, Chinquapin, and Tucker James Whitfield, Chinquapin; x Jhacaira Carolina Aquino Rosado, Clinton, and Angel Gerrardo Rapalo Amador, Clinton; x Amanda Rae Lewis, Mount Juliet, and Dmitri Lavar Colbert, Mount Juliet;

x Cornelio Pacheco Acosta, Rose Hill, and Celeni Damari Rodriguez Zelaya, Rose Hill;

x Jaylan Rodriguez, Lumberton, and Arisha Marie Jackson, Lumberton;

x Crystal Cole Outlaw, Kenansville, and Kevin Kunte Shaw, Kenansville;

x Chelsey Nicole Burroughs, Dudley, and Jesus Castaneda Vega, Dudley.

x Henry Dallu Hough, Magnolia, and Joyce Fleagle Fulp, Magnolia;

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Faison nutrition site needs more seniors to feed Seniors 60 and over can sign up to receive a daily free meal through the program

Duplin County congregate nutrition site locations:

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal FAISON – Despite outreach efforts, the attendance numbers at the Faison congregate nutrition site are low, a problem that could result in losing meal benefits for seniors 60 and older at the Faison site. Sandra Krantz of Faison, expressed her concern at the Faison Town Hall meeting on Jan. 3, asking for ideas on how they could boost attendance and attract Faison’s increasing Hispanic population. Beth Taylor, Kenansville Congregate Nutrition Site Manager shared that she has found that there is hesitation from the Hispanic population across the county, in that they don’t like to share personal information. Such information is required to sign participants in the program. “They are afraid that it might be used in other areas about legal and illegal issues,” said Taylor. The Faison congregate nutrition center gets anywhere from three to nine people at any given time, but they would like to have 10 to 12 every day according to Krantz. “The site that I manage, we have anywhere from 13 to 25 depending on the activities we’re doing and depending on what’s going on in town,” said Taylor. “If there are certain events going on in town, those people are going to attend those events. I have to talk a lot in prior days to get people there. The seniors have been very responsive in that after an event is over in town, they will come in and eat. So that has been positive.”

x Beulaville Nutrition Site

located at 205 East Main Street x Faison Nutrition Site located at 184 Park Circle Drive x Kenansville Nutrition Site located at 213 Seminary Street x Wallace Nutrition Site located at 209 Clement Street x Warsaw Nutrition Site located at 309 Memorial Drive

PHOTO COURTESY OF MELISA BROWN

All meals at the congregate nutrition sites are reviewed and certified by a licensed nutritionist. Taylor explained that the meals they give are monitored every week. “If I have low numbers, my meal numbers are going to change,” Taylor said. “I give up my meal quite often, just so we make sure our seniors are served. These are things that happen because we must account for every meal served. It is a wonderful program, but there’s accountability that we have to make sure is in place.” Taylor, who used to be a town of Faison employee, told the Duplin Journal that while conducting a census in Faison, she found out that the migrant population is not keen on sharing personal information. Adding that between March and November the number of migrants that come to the area can be around 1,000. “When we were doing the cen-

sus, we hit every house in Faison and we were distributing information so they would not be afraid, so they’d understand what the census was and that sort of thing,” Taylor explained. Melisa Brown, Senior Services director explained that the Faison location has struggled with attendance issues for some time, decreasing more since the pandemic. “Even with the outreach efforts implemented, very little growth has taken place. When a congregate nutrition site attendance continues to decline, we begin to review ways that we can continue to serve seniors as well as be mindful and responsible with the budgeted funds received,” said Brown. “The challenge we face the most is not having a bilingual em-

ployee on staff to be able to communicate more effectively.” There are five congregate nutrition sites serving seniors of all diversities in Duplin County with locations in Beulaville, Faison, Kenansville, Wallace, and Warsaw. Each site is open from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. where they provide registered seniors one hot meal a day, and the opportunity for socialization. “We welcome our Hispanic seniors to visit any of the site locations,” said Brown, explaining that any senior who wishes to participate will need an address to complete the registration form, which collects data to verify the person they are serving. The information required includes name, address, telephone, birth date, last four of their social security number, and an emer-

gency contact person. Meals must be eaten at the site location unless the senior qualifies for home delivered meals. Brown explained that they adjust the number of meals each week. “Initially, if the person registers that day, we could possibly serve the same day. It actually depends on the number of meals that were ordered the previous week,” said Brown. “Specific to Faison, additional meals would need to be ordered and would be available the following week.” Someone under 60 is considered special eligibility or a guest. “If the husband is 60 and the wife is 58, she is eligible because of her spouse. Both would register, but she is only eligible with the spouse,” said Brown. “Occasionally, we have a guest accompany a senior. They may not qualify under special eligibility, so if there is a meal available, they can pay the full price of the meal after seniors are served.” Brown encourages seniors to register for the program and take advantage of the opportunity to socialize with other seniors as well as enjoy many of the activities and classes planned at each nutrition site.

Wallace PD’s K9 Maverick gets medical kit donation Maverick and fellow K9 Viper joined WPD in December By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin Journal WALLACE -- One of the Wallace Police Department’s newest officers was presented with a medical kit, courtesy of nonprofit organization Protection4Paws, Inc. K9 Officer Maverick was awarded the special medical kit as part of Protection4Paws’ 12 Dogs of Christmas campaign. Protection4Paws is a Pennsylvania-based charity whose mission is “to supply law enforcement K9s with the items needed to protect them while they protect us.” The kit includes items that may be needed in a medical

FAISON from page 1 the street… And then for vendors, we would ask for the town to consider south Samson Street behind the fire department, to close that off for the safety of our people when they are going to food trucks and stuff like that.” The Board approved Taylor’s request. The next step now is to start the approval process with the Department of Transportation to close Main Street from Warren Road up to the railroad tracks and have the parade on March 23. Other highlights discussed at the meeting: • Sandra Krantz, who has tough classes at the Faison Congregate Nutrition site, addressed the board during public comment, sharing her concerns about the congregate nutrition site not having enough attendance and hoping to find some ideas on how to get more participation so that the program can continue, low numbers could result in the potential closing of the congregate nutrition site. See story on page three for more on this subject. • The Town of Faison received a check donation for $100,000 from a generous resident, who wishes the funds are used for anything the town needs including equipment or vehicles. Mayor Billy Ward shared that

emergency, including bandages, ointment, a K9 oxygen mask, muzzles and more. “Time is critical when treating severe injuries in the field and saving time increases the chance of survival for the casualty in an emergency or hostile situation,” Protection4Paws stated in a press release. “Our K9 Medical Kit contains essential equipment that helps assist in the team’s safety as well as allowing for the quickest means of medical response for the K9.” K9 Maverick joined the Wallace police force in December after completing six weeks of training with his handler, Officer Taylor Meshaw. K9 Viper and Officer Ivan Sanchez were introduced along with K9 Maverick and Officer Meshaw at the December meeting of the Wallace Town Council.

K9 Maverick was recently the recipient of a medical kit donated by Protection4Paws, a nonprofit charity, to the Wallace Police Department.

they had been looking at some equipment and vehicles the town needs. He presented the board with the information the staff had researched for the purchase of a dump truck, a pickup truck, a mini excavator, and a trailer to haul that excavator with. “The first two vehicles are things that the town needs,” Mayor Ward said. Mayor Ward explained that the dump truck has an automatic transmission which is needed so that the staff can drive it. The pickup truck they are looking at buying will be used to transport supplies for the after-school program and the concession stand as well as running errands. “The trailer and the excavator are something that Billy Mello and his department had asked for and said that it would make things a lot easier on them whenever they’re in smaller, tighter situations compared to using the backhoe and the ones he’s picked have the equipment he needs on it,” said Ward. Jimmy Tyndall, executive administrator explained that the two pieces of equipment that Public Works cannot be without are a backhoe and a dump truck. “Our backhoe is close to 25 or so years old right now. A brand-new backhoe costs you $100,000. That is without any

bells or whistles, straight up,” said Tyndall, explaining that smaller holes mean less damage, less asphalt to put back. He added that they use the backhoe to pick up yard debris. “It runs at least two days a week, sometimes three, depending on the season. Also, we take all that stuff back to our yard, and we dump it, and that same backhoe has to go back when it is all said and done, pick it all up, and put it where it belongs,” said Tyndall. “The idea being that once the backhoe comes off the street, the mini excavator can do the other work, and be far less invasive and take some of the heat off an aging backhoe. So, when you see the numbers, when you total all these numbers up tonight, compare that to what a brand-new backhoe costs, it comes down to what is efficient, what makes more sense, and what helps us maintain what we already have.” The board approved to move forward with the purchases. • Tyndall also provided an update on the demolition of the old gym, explaining this was a multi-part project. “First part being to remove some trees that were on the opposite side of the park, which was the first thing we did. The second part is to create the gravel parking on that side of

PHOTO COURTESY OF WALLACE POLICE DEPARTMENT

“The idea being that once the backhoe comes off the street, the mini excavator can do the other work, and be far less invasive and take some of the heat off an aging backhoe. So, when you see the numbers, when you total all these numbers up tonight, compare that to what a brand-new backhoe costs, it comes down to what is efficient, what makes more sense, and what helps us maintain what we already have.” Jimmy Tyndall, executive administrator the park also and close in the ditch… We decided to build a storm drain box there and remove the T tile so it would be closed and when we are going to finish tiling it, there won’t be a ditch from that point all the way to the corner,” said Tyndall, adding that they are accepting bids for the gym demolition until Jan. 31.

“In February we will be able to award the bids and then the last piece of the proposal will be the creation of a brick courtyard… The project is really moving along better than anticipated.” He shared that in 2022 they had an air quality report done for the old gym which has asbestos, and it is full of black mold. “We have requested controlled access to the job site. The entire park will not be closed… “The only squirrelly part is how close this building is to the dugout, and we’ve got about a four-foot clearance,” explained Tyndall. “We are planning to add some top surface of ground behind that dugout. And we are adding about 15 or 20 feet of actual top-walking surface.” • Commissioner Lee Kennedy who also serves as the Faison Fire and Rescue fire chief, provided an update for Faison Fire and Rescue, adding that the department closed the year with 529 calls, which is an increase of 47 calls since 2022. 2023 was a busy year for Faison Fire and Rescue, with 228 first responder calls, 72 motor vehicle accidents (10 of them having pinned-in patients), 50 service calls, 3 water rescues, 28 structure fires (six in the district), 24 hazardous conditions, 20 woods fires, and 11 vehicle fires, among others.

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Blue states just can’t stop taxing The Golden State just moved past New York to reclaim the income tax top spot.

THE LATEST CENSUS BUREAU DATA on population changes in America should have been a wake-up call to lawmakers in blue states and cities. The Census data provide even further evidence that “soak the rich” tax policies have incited a blue-state meltdown. California, New York and Illinois all lost the most population last year. These states have nearly lost a combined 5 million people over the last decade. California and New York could both lose another three congressional seats by the end of the decade, and Illinois another two. Did I mention that these are the three states with the highest taxes? Is this just a coincidence? Democratic governors evidently think so. This year, seven blue states are pursuing even higher tax rates on the top 1% of earners, despite the evidence that these policies are detrimental to their citizens. One such state is Washington. Once an importer of talent and brainpower because of its no-income-tax status, the Dems who control all the levers of power in Seattle just enshrined a 7% capital gains tax, and the Democratic Washington Supreme Court strangely ruled it is constitutional. This is one of the highest taxes on the sale of assets in the country. Sen. Noel Frame (D-Wash.) wants a 1% annual tax on financial intangible assets — such as cash, stocks and bonds — over $250 million. And then they wonder why one of the world’s richest human beings, Jeff Bezos, has moved to South Florida. In Vermont, Dems have just proposed raising their top income tax rate to more than 8%. Pretty soon Ben and Jerry will be the only rich people left in the state — and don’t be surprised if they move out, too. Meanwhile, Maryland Dems are pushing a

“millionaire tax” ($750,000 in income and above), a capital tax and a new corporate tax. California just raised its top income tax rate to the highest in the U.S. — from 13.3% to 14.4%. The Golden State just moved past New York to reclaim the income tax top spot. They must be so proud. The Dems in Sacramento also expanded the state’s 1.1% payroll tax to include all income earners. The tax was previously applicable only to those making up to around $153,000 annually. Meanwhile, Jonathan Williams, the chief economist at the American Legislative Exchange Council — an association of more than 2,000 conservative state legislators — reports that eight red states are cutting income taxes including Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Utah and West Virginia. Oklahoma is set to cut rates this year to as low as 2%. Several of these states now have flat taxes, not multiple tier “progressive” rates. Every state on this list is a red state, except Connecticut. What does all this mean? The blue-state deep thinkers can’t see that their “progressive” tax systems are bleeding their states dry. Or they don’t care. Once upon a time, it was the Northeast that was the financial and industrial capital of the world. Now Miami, Nashville, Dallas, Austin, Charlotte, Tampa and Salt Lake City are the hot destinations. The Southeast now produces more GDP than the northeast. I call it a blue-state dysphoria. They must change their ways or die. So far, their political leaders are choosing the latter course. Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation and co-founder of the Committee to Unleash Prosperity.

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

The Supreme Court and the Trump cases The D.C. Circuit has seven active Democraticappointed judges and only four Republicans.

THE QUESTION is not when the Supreme Court will WEIGH IN on Donald Trump’s eligibility to serve as president of the United States but if it will do so at all. It already resisted one opportunity when it refused to fast track the appeal of the district court’s ruling that he is not absolutely immune from criminal liability for acts committed while he was president. But that was not necessarily the major victory for Trump that so many commentators claimed. There is every reason for the court to stay out of the election, notwithstanding the Republican-appointed majority on the highest court. John Roberts, the chief justice, is a conservative in more ways than one. He is known to be the sort of leader who is concerned about the court’s credibility and legitimacy, which is at an all-time low. He is known as a consensus builder, who would not and should not welcome a divided court weighing into a partisan divide that could leave the court, as it was after Bush v. Gore, further damaged in terms of its own credibility. To those who question whether the 2000 decision had such an impact, I would point them to the polls at the time, as well as the opinion of my own former boss, the late Justice John Paul Stevens, who told me that no modern decision did more to undermine the public view that the court is above politics — and that was not a court that, like this one, is plagued by the perception of ethical

problems of its own. By rejecting the special counsel’s request for an expedited review, the court left the case to be decided by one of the most liberal courts in the country. A three-judge panel (of all Democratic appointees) will hear the Trump lawyers’ claims next week, giving the radical claim for absolute immunity the expedited hearing that the Supreme Court declined to afford. If that decision goes against Trump, either because the court rejects his claim of immunity or accepts the argument that it does not have jurisdiction of a non-final criminal appeal absent special circumstances (a novel but not unprecedented argument raised by a friend of the court brief), he could quickly face the trial he is so desperate to avoid before a judge who has already ruled that the former president is not a king. Trump could move for rehearing by the panel (which would be futile) or seek rehearing en banc by the full panel of D.C. circuit judges — a move that requires a majority of the 11-member court to vote with him to hear the case. For those who are counting, the D.C. Circuit has seven active Democraticappointed judges and only four Republicans. The easy default vote on en banc petitions is a “no,” particularly in the absence of a strong dissenting vote by one of the three judges who will hear next week’s case. At the same time, an affirmance by the D.C. en banc

court would make it even easier for the Supreme Court to say no to a cert petition, with two lower courts having ruled against the former president. The fact that all nine justices have once voted to stay out makes it easier for them to stay out a second time. Which leaves the Colorado case as the more difficult one for the Supreme Court to avoid. There, you have not only a question of national importance but one as to which the states are already divided. But even so, the Colorado decision is right now on hold, and limited to the Republican primary ballot. The court may not be as easily able to avoid any decision at all, but there are paths available — including deferring to Congress the decision of a political question — to put off a final decision. In the meantime, Trump could be tried and convicted, the one thing that even today’s polls showing his wide lead suggest he could not survive. In other words, Trump is not in the driver’s seat, at least not yet, and if the Supreme Court can find a way for the lower courts to resolve the immediate crisis, they may yet save their reputations and the court’s in the process. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author, and political commentator.

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

5 Duplin’s unemployment rate remains unchanged Duplin County The unemployment rate for Duplin County remains at 3.4% for the month of November 2023, the same rate that was reported for October 2023. However, when compared to the same timeframe one year ago, the rate is 0.2 of percentage point lower than November 2022’s 3.6%. The updated rates were released on Thursday, Jan. 4, by the N.C. Department of Commerce. When compared to the rest of the state, Duplin’s unemployment ranks 49th, nearly in the middle of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Duplin’s 3.4% rate translates to 835 individuals receiving unemployment benefits for the month of November, out of the county’s workforce of 24,565.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ECU HEALTH DUPLIN HOSPITAL

Duplin welcomes first baby born in 2024 WALKER CHASE LANIER, BORN JAN. 3, 2024 at 12:29 p.m., was the first baby of the new year for ECU Health Duplin Hospital. Proud parents Brooke and Caden Lanier of Beulaville are shown here with baby Walker, who weighed in at 7 pounds, 1.8 ounces and was 17.5 inches long at birth.

Resolve to cook at home more in 2024 Cooperative Extension offers tips for home cooking By Rachel Ezzell Contributor WHETHER YOU’RE someone who has set a New Year’s resolution of adopting a healthier lifestyle or saving money, or you’ve just felt the impact of rising food costs, you may be considering cooking more at home this year. As a Family and Consumer Sciences agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension, I have the opportunity to continue learning from our staff on the campus in Raleigh. Dr. Carolyn Dunn is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emerita and has recently entered phased retirement. After a 30-plus year career in nutrition, she shared what she views as the Five Essential Rules of Cooking, and I thought I would pass these guidelines along to anyone hoping to spend a bit more time in the kitchen this year. Have a good knife and cutting board. You don’t need to go purchase a new knife block, but having one or two good knives is important. When preparing meals at home, a chef’s knife will likely be your most used utensil. PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL EZZELL A sturdy cutting board is an important tool as well. Many cut- Duplin County Cooperative Extension Agent Rachel Ezzell is ting boards have rubber edges or shown chopping vegetables in the kitchen during one of her non-slip rubber feet; however, if recent classes. yours doesn’t, simply place a wet paper towel underneath to keep it from sliding. Once you have a Extension to see our upcom- mise en place — or everything in couple quality knives, the next ing nutrition and cooking skills its place. Before you start to cook anything, clear and clean your part is learning how to use them workshops.) Ready your space and your kitchen if it isn’t already. Then, safely and practicing. Having good knife skills will help make ingredients. I enjoy learning, fully read through any recipes your recipes come together fast- and one of my current pastimes and get all of your ingredients er. (Interested in learning more is reading through a culinary ready. Cook a lot. You may think I about knife skills? We offer knife textbook. I’ll keep you from skills workshops at our office in reading the 1,000-plus page text mean frequently by saying this Kenansville. Visit Duplin Coun- and share one of my favorite tips — nope. I mean volume. Cook ty Center | N.C. Cooperative we can all learn from the pros: more food than you need for

each meal. Double the soup recipe and freeze half of it. Roast extra vegetables and use them in salads, omelets, with lunch, or as a snack. Cooking twice as much as you need doesn’t typically take double the time, and you will have planned leftovers (planned-overs) for other meals or in the freezer for another day. Cook with ingredients, not only recipes. This may be a hard one for beginning cooks, but the more you learn to cook by ingredients instead of recipes the better. Recipes are fantastic, and we all use them — keep that up. However, don’t be afraid to change plans- especially when the produce you intended to purchase looks subpar or you find a different item is on sale. Consider purchasing at least one fruit or vegetable each week (especially if it’s on sale) and cooking with ingredients will soon become second nature. Find YOUR favorites. Find five to 10 recipes that you like, your family likes, and you enjoy making. Make them all the time. Cooking a dish over and over will make the process of cooking it easier. Think about the first time you made a dish that you now make frequently. It’s likely easier and faster now. Making something multiple times also enables you to adapt the recipe based on the season or what you have on hand if you wanted. One staple dish in our household is shrimp tacos. If we have leftover red cabbage from another recipe we’ll use that, we’ll adapt for fish instead of shrimp, if I find a fresh mango I’ll make a mango slaw, and it’s great when we need to use leftover cilantro. References: Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Blog Rachel Ezzell is a Family and Consumer Sciences Agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension Service’s Duplin County Center.

Four new assumed business names reported in December Duplin County According to the Duplin County Register of Deeds office, four new assumed business names were recorded in the county during the month ending Dec. 31, 2023. Those businesses and owners were: Cameron Burley’s Lawn Service, Cameron Burley; GTS Transportation and Cutz & Creatorz, both LaShonda Glover; and Recall Repairs, LLC, Rene Licona Cruz.

James Sprunt’s Small Business Center offers free training seminars Warsaw The James Sprunt Community College Small Business Center is offering free training seminars to small business owners or potential small business owners throughout the month of January. The online seminar, “Easy Online Web Design and Marketing,” is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 18, 3-5 p.m. Two more seminars will be offered on Saturday, Jan. 20 — “How to Start a Small Business” from 8-10 a.m., and “How to Write a Business Plan,” from 10 a.m. to noon, both in Spanish, in the Seminars & Workshop Classroom in the Hoff ler Building. Another online seminar, “Creating Landing Pages to Drive Business,” is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 23, 6-8 p.m. For more information, contact Joy Lynne, director of the Small Business Center, at 910-6596008 or jwynne@jamessprunt. edu. Visit James Sprunt CC Small Business Center for a full list of upcoming seminars and to register. Got local business news? Let us know about any grand openings, new businesses, noteworthy achievements, or upcoming events, and we’ll share it with the community here. Email Features/Business Editor Abby Cavenaugh at abby@northstatejournal.com. The Duplin Journal reserves the right to edit for content, brevity,

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

6 DEMOCRATS from page 1 antee you, the Democratic Party is not going to just sit back this year,” he said. Each of the statewide candidates in attendance took 10 minutes to speak. Judge Carolyn Thompson, who’s seeking re-election to her seat on the N.C. Court of Appeals and was appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper, was first up. She has served as a District Court Judge and Superior Court Judge, and has presided over criminal, domestic, juvenile, and mental health proceedings over 27 years. “This seat is one of 15,” she explained. “I am currently the only African-American female out of 15 judges sitting.” She talked about several cases in which parents didn’t fully understand their rights, and ended up losing their rights as a result. When asked by colleagues if she’s an activist judge, she said she “actively

pursues justice.” Sen. Hunt spoke next. She was elected to the state senate in 2022, and has served two terms in the N.C. House of Representatives. “Unless we allow people in rural areas to grow and thrive and prosper, we are not doing our jobs,” she said. “People in rural areas are the backbone of North Carolina.” Because she’s running for a state office, Hunt said it’s important to visit every single county in the state. “I want to raise us up, I want to open people’s eyes, especially to the importance of the legislature to everyone’s lives, and so then, people will get involved.” Finally, gubernatorial candidate Justice Michael Morgan spoke. A native of Cherry Point who grew up in New Bern, Morgan has served as a District Court Judge, Superior Court Judge, and N.C. Supreme Court Justice.

“The reason why I’m running,” he said, “there are several reasons. One is that the state’s government is broken. Consider that we’ve got 3,500 teacher vacancies in our public schools, 12 people dying daily from fentanyl overdoses, we’ve got a 45day waiting period just to get an appointment with the DMV. Something’s wrong. We can do better than that.” As the first Black student at his elementary school and the first Black drum major at his high school, Morgan said he learned that you’ve got to have courage, and exercise leadership. Education is his number 1 priority. “Rural students, like right here in this county, deserve to have the kind of education everyone else has in North Carolina.” Criminal justice reform and affordable housing are also high

MIKE MORGAN

RACHEL HUNT

on his list of priorities, Morgan said. “We have too much good going on in North Carolina for anyone to be compartmentalized and marginalized. Everybody deserves to have the op-

portunity to be all they can be.” “North Carolina is going forward,” he concluded. “We’re not going backwards. We’re going forward, and Duplin County is leading the way.”

Pesticide container recycling has saved over $100,000 in landfill usage Program is available at all Duplin County recycling sites By Walter Adams Contributor

PHOTO COURTESY OF BELINDA ENGLISH SMITH BROTHERS GAS COMPANY

$2,250 donation to benefit Duplin students CHAD SMITH HOLDS A CHECK FOR $2,250 written to the Duplin County Education Foundation as he prepares to send it on Jan. 2. Smith shared that this year a senior from Wallace-Rose Hill, James Kenan, and North Duplin High School will each receive a $750 scholarship. The check donation is in honor of Layla Mewborn, who lost her battle to brain cancer at the early age of 4. Layla died on her birthday on Nov. 26, 2016. She is the daughter of Wesley and Robin Mewborn of Kenansville. “She brought the community together with her fight and she continues to be a hero to so many in this small community,” said Smith, who is the manager of Smith Brothers Gas Company.

DUPLIN COUNTY agriculture producers are left with a surplus of empty plastic pesticide containers and no options for correct disposal. If these containers are disposed of improperly, the agriculture producer could face substantial fines and also cause environmental contamination. Duplin County Cooperative Extension was able to secure funding through NCDA grants to purchase cargo containers and place them at various county recycling sites so agriculture producers have a place to store their empty plastic pesticide containers. Working with US Ag Recycling, these containers are ground up into fine pieces so they can be recycled into various plastic materials.

TOXICOLOGY from page 1 protect his life. “The toxicology results shed light on an additional bad choice made by Lanier. Lanier chose to ingest PCP. Lanier chose to attack a police officer,” wrote Chief Crayton, emphasizing the poor choice of attack-

pesticide containers were collected, totaling 9,175 AT A GLANCE pounds that were kept out x During the 2023 growing of the landfill. With this program, enviseason, a total of 13,800 ronmental contamination plastic pesticide containers and human contamination has been greatly reduced. were collected, totaling Since 2017, Duplin County 9,175 pounds that were farmers have recycled over kept out of the landfill. 93,320 plastic pesticide x Since 2017, Duplin County containers. At today’s current landfill cost of $1.23 farmers have recycled over per square foot of space, it 93,320 plastic pesticide is estimated this program has saved Duplin County containers. taxpayers over $114,783.60 x It is estimated this in landfill space alone from program has saved Duplin 2017-2023. For more information County taxpayers over on pesticide container re$114,783.60 in landfill cycling in Duplin County, space alone from 2017contact Walter Adams at 2023. 910-296-2143 or walter_adams@ncsu.edu. This program was promoted through the pesticide recertification program, letters, brochures, and faceto-face contacts. During the 2023 growing season, a total of 13,800 plastic

ing an officer whose presence was meant to control an escalating act of violence. “These choices are what led to Lanier’s death. Lanier’s spontaneous and continued violent assault on the officer, including his trying to take the officer’s weapon, gave the officer no other choice but to discharge his firearm.”

Walter Adams is Agricultural & Natural Resources Technician II, working with the Cooperative Extension Service in Duplin and Lenoir counties, via North Carolina A&T State University.

“This incident has caused a great deal of trauma to Lanier’s family, the officer involved in the shooting, and our community,” wrote Chief Crayton, concluding that he hopes “this final piece of evidence resolves those with lingering questions.”

NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s 2024 Top Shot Challenge NSJ Staff The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has announced a new program aimed at improving target shooting skills. The 2024 Top Shot Challenge is a 12-month, themed target shooting program that will be offered at six agency shooting ranges across the state. “Besides target shooting being an enjoyable sport for many people, it creates an opportunity to improve shooting skills and become more familiar handling a firearm, which is a recommended safety measure for firearm owners,” said NCWRC’s shooting range facilities manager Josh Jernigan in the press release. The ranges in which the challenge will be offered are the John Lenz Hunter Education Complex in Richmond County, the Flintlock Valley Shooting Range in Montgomery County’s Uwharrie National Forest, the Odom Shooting Range in Northampton Coun-

ty, the Wake County Firearms Education and Training Center, the Wayne E. Smith Cold Mountain Shooting Range in Haywood County, and the R. Wayne Bailey-Caswell Shooting Range in Caswell County. The Top Shot challenge will be offered in three categories: rif le of any caliber, handgun of any caliber and 0.22-caliber rif les and pistols. The rules include that participants will shoot targets at 50 yards, no lead sleds or locking devices allowed, front supports only (stocks may not touch the table), no caliber .50 BMG or larger, participants must use the targets provided at the range and all other range rules must be followed Participants will receive a themed patch for each monthly challenge they complete. They may attempt the challenge once per day, per month for each themed challenge until they complete it and makeup challenges will be offered in August. Visit ncwildlife.org for more information.

PHOTO COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION

SPORTS Kerr, Motsinger pace All-Duplin football FIRST TEAM OFFENSE QB: Zack Brown, ED, Sr. FB: Corbin Kerr, WRH, Sr. RB: Irving Brown, WRH, Jr. RB: Dujuan Armwood, ND, Sr. SE: Ja’Corey Boney, WRH, Sr. Athlete: Shawn Davis, ED, So. OL: Daniel Galvin, WRH, Sr. OL: Ashton Duff, WRH, Jr. OL: James Stokes, ED, Sr., C OL: Sydney Lanier, ED, Jr. OL: Oscar Romero, ND, Sr. OL: Maki Merriman, JK, Sr. PK: Darwin Bonilla, ED, Sr.

Kornegay, Armwood, Brown, Diaz, Moore, also capture marquee awards By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal TEACHEY – Football fans in Duplin County have been spoiled, and perhaps for one very good reason. The four public schools have outstanding coaches and programs, which rise above the norm of success in eastern North Carolina and statewide, even though vastly under-rated because three are 2A schools and another one of the small 1A entries. While that tide is changing a bit, it’s still a bit comical how the power of Duplin schools is overlooked in polls. Football coaches know. That’s why the Havelock coaching staff had only one thought in the preseason: Prepare for its opener against Wallace-Rose Hills. The focus was needed, the Rams nipped the Bulldogs 28-27 on opening night and proceeded to roar its way to 12 more wins before losing to Northern Nash in the fourth round of the 3A playoffs. Not convinced yet? How about explaining how East Duplin wins a 2A title in 2022, loses 16 seniors and still

has a chance to be the No. 1 seed in the playoffs until the waning moments of the regular season? One or two plays and that would have happened when the Panthers lost in overtime to WRH. James Kenan, which won state titles in 2007 and 2013, has recovered from a rare five-year slump to return to the limelight by an increase in numbers (players) and wins. And North Duplin’s recent resurgence after the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020 has been a success story of its own. Its surge has been number-driven, because of the way veteran coach Hugh Martin runs the ship, and because of coaching at the lower levels. Yet with all that went right for the four schools in 2023, ED, WRH and ND had second-round playoff exists and JK left after the opening round. That was the biggest shock of a season filled with long runs and hard hits. Yet one bad night does not define a season. Excluding games against one another, Duplin schools were 3111, which includes four 3A foes, one 4A school and one against the 2A East Region champ. Three coaches — ED’s Battle Holley, WRH’s Kevin Motsinger and Martin — could have been

the top coach in a landslide in most of the state’s 100 counties as each guided their team to a remarkable success. Holley and ED had a 22-game winning broke against WRH, but still went 10-2. Martin, who coached for the NC team at the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas, had his team in a position to beat Southeast Halifax in the second round. The Rebels lost 26-21, but had a shot at advancing. While many feel Motsinger’s crew underachieved, the veteran coach of 19 seasons captured the first conference title of his career. That and wins over WRH’s two county rivals earned Motsinger Coach of the Year honors in Duplin County. Marquee player awards go to the following: WRH fullback Corbin Kerr is the runaway winner of Mr. Football. ND’s Dujuan Armwood is Offensive Player of the Year. JK’s Hassan Kornegay is the Defensive Player of the Year. WRH’s Irving Brown is the Heart of Champion winner. ND’s Dujuan Armwood and JK’s Tristan Diaz are corecipients of the Two-Way Warrior award.

COACH OF THE YEAR

MR. FOOTBALL

Kevin Motsinger

Corbin Kerr

WALLACE-ROSE HILL

Motsinger, who revived programs at JK (24-14 in three seasons) and New Hanover (73-43 in nine seasons) and won a 2A title at WRH in 2017, is one of the most respected coaches in the state. He’s also one of the best motivators in the state. What he lacks in conference crowns is made up for in wins as Motsinger is 68-24 in seven seasons at WRH, while playing a pre-conference schedule against top 3A and 4A teams -because 2A and 1A schools will not schedule the Bulldogs. His 165-81 career coaching ranks among the best in the state. Also approaching on the short list is Holley (139-53 in 16 seasons, 118-45 at ED). What Holley and his staff did in 2023 was incredible as ED won via its program, rather than by the experience of its players. Lately, the gold standard is beating Holley’s Panthers. Yet Motsinger’s goal has always been linked to runs in the state playoffs. Even when his team went to the 2A title game in 2021, WRH lost to ED during the regular season, who won the past two ECC titles. The Bulldogs came back to nip ED in the East Region final. So, Coach of the Year in the past seven years can’t be said without mentioning either Motsinger or Holley. Martin (118-99 in 18 years), who took Rebel teams to the 1A finals in 2007 and 2017, was the biggest mover in terms of wins over the previous sea-

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE DL: Isaac Davis, ND, Sr. DL: James Newkirk, ED, Sr. DL: Lamarri Williams, WRH, Sr. DL: Sedrick Lawson, ED, Jr. LB: Hassan Kornegay, JK, Jr. DL/LB: KaShawn Scarborough, WRH, Sr. LB: Jordan Hall, ED, Sr. LB: Luke Hughes, ED, Jr. LB: Ethan Turnage, ND, So. Athlete: Shykown Williams, JK, Sr. DB: Javyn Fredrick, WRH, Jr. DB: Jeremiah Judge, ED, Sr. DB: Tyquise Wilson, JK, So. DB: Wesley Holmes, ND, Jr. DB: Josh Mitchell, JK,

WALLACE-ROSE HILL

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Kevin Motsinger, WRH. son (to 3-7 in ’22 to 9-3 in ’23). ND tied Lakewood for the Carolina Conference title as its lone loss came to the Leopards. The road setback cost the Rebels the No. 1 seed from the CC in the state playoffs. WRH started out 0-3 with losses to powers Havelock, Clinton (2A finalist) and Hoggard (4A finalist) but rebounded to win eight in a row before being upset 58-44 by Hertford County (10-3) in the playoffs. The Bulldogs had nine players on the first team offense and defense. ED had eight, ND six and JK five. A coach and two players from WRH were individual marquee award winners.

If “tough” were a prep football player, it would look a lot like Corbin Kerr. Don’t try to arm-tackle him. One player frequently needed to bring him to the turf. And the tackler or tacklers may take the brunt of a blow that feels as if Kerr initiated. Motsinger calls him, “Aggressive. Physically violent runner. Extremely hard worker. Straight-A student. And the kicker to any Duplin coach might be, “Loves the weight room.” Kerr, who was recently name the Duplin Journal’s Male Athlete of the Year, won the honor by terrorizing defenses. He ran for an area-high 2,252 yards and 36 touchdowns, going over the 200yard mark five times. No team stopped him and he ran himself into rare territory for a Duplin athlete. Kerr, who has yet to decide where he will play in college, suited up for North Carolina in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas on Dec. 16 in Spartanburg, S.C. While area athletes have played in the North Carolina Coaches Association All-Star Game, visits to the Shrine Bowl have been rare. Kerr ran for 1,500 in 2022

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

and 1,112 as a sophomore at Southwest Onlsow. ED’s Avery Noble was Mr. Football in 2022 and WRH’s Kanye Roberts the previous season as runners take center stage.

Corbin Kerr, WRH, Sr., FB

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2023

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Dujuan Armwood ND, SR., RB

Armwood was a model of consistency – and star on offense and defense, though his running made garnered most of the attention. Armwood had 10 games of 100-plus yards en route to running for 1,785 yards and

23 TDs. In fact, he averaged 143 yards on Friday nights as ND went 9-3. He returned two punts and a kickoff for touchdowns and made 10 2-point conversions. The 6-foot, 178-pounder

might have been the fastest athlete in the county. If he hit a lane, few were able to catch him. Armwood’s presence on defense was larger than his tackles (4.8 per game) and two interceptions.

SECOND TEAM OFFENSE

SECOND TEAM DEFENSE

QB: Reid Page, WRH, Sr.

DL: Trashawn Ruffin, ND, So.

RB: Stephone Stanley, JK, Jr.

DL: Deashawn Taylor, WRH, Sr.

RB: Jamarae Lamb, WRH, So.

DL: Dmarion Artis, JK, Jr. DL: Alneilus Smith, JK, Sr.

RB: Carell Phillips, ND, Jr.

DL: Echelon Murphy, WRH, Sr.

OL: Juan Instroza, WRH, Sr.

LB: Ethan Turnage, ND, So.

OL: Cain Brown, ED, Jr.

LB: Echelon Murphy, WRH, Sr.

OL: Jaydyn Morisseau, WRH, Sr.

LB: Austin Wolfe, ND, So.

OL: Colby Holtz, ND, Sr.

LB: Jamari Shaw, WRH, Sr.

OL: Trashawn Ruffin, ND, So.

DB: Kam Thomas, WRH, Sr.

TE: Chase Whitley, ED, Sr.

DB: Brendan Reyna, ND, Sr..

PK: Brayan Guadardo, JK, Sr.

DB: Ja’Corey Boney, WRH, Sr.

SS: Nate Jones, ED, Sr.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Hassan Kornegay JK, SR., LB/FB

Central 2A Conference’s top defender. Expect more in the years to come from the brother of the late John Brooks, who was inducted in the JK Hall of Fame last fall. Kornegay made 127 tackles as a linebacker with sonar for ball carri

Hassan Kornegay can take over a game, Lawrence Taylor-style. Or he can mow down defenders for a running back. And he’s quite capable of running the ball down the throat of a defense. Last fall, he made is biggest hits on defense as the East

DUPLIN JOURNAL

Dujuan Armwood, ND, Senior, RB/DB

CO-TWO-WAY WARRIOR

Tristan Diaz & Elam Moore JK, SR.

ED, SR.

DUPLIN JOURNAL

Hassan Kornegay, MLB, JK

CHAMPION HEART

Tristan Diaz and Elam Moore truly played the game. Nearly every down – offense, defense, special teams. JK coach Tim Grady loved the hustle and toughness of Diaz, a 6-2, 236-pound guard and defensive tackle, who always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. He rarely left the field. He was a foundation point for the Tigers’ 15 wins the previous two seasons, and he rarely left the turf. Nor did Moore, who showed the same love and respect for football. He ran for 753 yards and eight TDs, had nine receptions for 126 yards and made 42 tackles. Moore is also remembered for key 70yard TD return off a blocked field goal against Reidsville during ED’s 24-21 win in the 2A final in 2022. Football is often called the ultimate team game. Diaz and Moore were unsung players and ultimate teammates for their respective teams.

Irving Brown WRH, JR., RB

The path of Irving Brown is eerily similar to one taken by Kanye Roberts, who had three 1,000-yard plus seasons before breaking out with a Duplin County record 3,511 yards as a senior, leading WRH to the 2A finals in 2021. He’s at Division 1 Appalachian State now running for the Mountaineers. Brown, a junior, has had back-to-back seasons of more than 1,600 yards, scoring 23 times in 15 games two seasons ago and 28 scores in 12 games last fall. He also catch

Left, Tristan Diaz, JK, Sr. Right, Elam Moore, ED, Sr.

and run the ball as evidenced by his five TD receptions. And he picked up steam, averaging 141 yards this season as opposed to 101 in 2022. The 5-10, 195-pounder will likely get more carries with Kerr gone, and he’ll be protected well since sophomore Jamarae Lamb has shown he is on a track to be a star as well. Brown and Lamb will do their work with new teammates as WRH graduates it offensive line.

DUPLIN JOURNAL

Irving Brown, WRH, Jr., RB

DUPLIN JOURNAL

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2023

The rest of the first team includes:

Maki Merriman JK, Sr., OL

Isaac Davis ND, Jr., DL

Javyn Fredrick WRH, Jr., DB

1st TEAM OFFENSE

Merriman was a pillar on a Tiger line that ran over defenses to clear the way for its ball carriers in the single-wing attack.

Davis shifted from linebacker to the defensive line last fall and it made ND better with the young talent the Rebels were developing.

Frederick would be a starting RB at most schools. Instead, he was a team player.

Ja’Corey Boney WRH, Sr., SE

It worked mighty well for Davis, too, who averaged 4.5 tackles in the trenches.

Zack Brown ED, Sr., QB Brown, a repeat signal caller from 2022 was one of two seniors to return from the 2022 title team. He was 51-87 for 768 yards and eight touchdowns. He also rushed for seven scores. Daniel Galvin WRH, Sr., OL The 6-foot-7, 334-pound tackle put the fear in foes before snaps and during plays as he manhandled and overwhelmed defenders. James Stokes ED, Sr., Center Stokes, the other ED offensive returnee, had an blocking grade of 85.5 for an offense that averaged 290.1 yards per game. Ashton Duff WRH, Sr., OL Duff followed in the footsteps of his brother Tyler to become a valuable ’Dawg in WRH’s vaunted Wing-T attack that churned out 5,059 yards on the ground. “He is the epitome of a WallaceRose Hill Bulldog,” Motsinger said. “He was one at birth and will be until death. He’s so athletic and quick at the line of scrimmage. A tremendous trapper. All he ever wanted was to be a WRH offensive lineman. And he was a dang good one.” Oscar Romero ND, Sr., OL Romero played far bigger than his 5-10, 195-pound frame as North Duplin’s offense moved the ball methodically and chewed up the clock, especially during wins over Northside (Pinetown), Southside Chicowinity and Rosewood. Sydney Lanier ED, Jr., OL Lanier stepped into a starting role and let his play do the talking. The junior graded out with an 83.3 blocking percent.

Boney went largely unrecognized by most fans, but coaches knew his value in turning plays into first downs, long gains and scores. “He’s the only player we had that played both ways all the time,” Motsinger said. “His blocking at the second and third level was absolutely critical for the success that all three of our RBs had. He did as good of a job blocking than any split end we have had since I’ve been here (seven years) or saw in film the few years before.” Shawn Davis ED, So., Athlete Davis ran for 1,144 yards and 18 TDs, caught nine passes for 163 yards and three scores and nabbed a pair of 2-point conversion passes. The sophomore broke his collarbone and missed the Panther’s final game. Davis also played MLB. He was a star on a team that played fundamental football. The 6-1, 195-pound hard-totackle bull was without a doubt the best sophomore to rise to the surface in 2023. Darwin Bonilla ED, Sr., PK Bonilla repeats as the top kicker after hitting on 56 of 60 PATs and 4 of 5 FGs. He was also an all-county soccer player for the Panthers. 1st TEAM DEFENSE

James Newkirk ED, Sr., DL Newkirk made 74 tackles, 35 solo and 49 assisted takedown and had five tackles for lost yardage on a Panther line that could both stop the run and make third-down stops. Lamarri Williams WRH, Sr., DL Williams played as aggressive as any lineman around and could jam up well-designed plays. “He has a very strong physical presence that could set the edge but also blow up bigger guys because of his power and strength,” Motsinger said.

Jeremiah Judge ED, Sr., DB Judge played free safety, strong safety and running back (80500). He made 114 tackles, including six for lost yardage, and had an interception. Tyquise Wilson JK, So., DB Wilson brought speed and quickness to JK, on offense as a runner and on defense as he raced to the ball.

OL: Cain Brown, ED, Jr. Had an 80 percent blocking grade for the season. OL: Trashawn Ruffin, ED, So. Made 52 tackles. Has the ability to be a difference maker. OL: Jaydyn Morisseau, WRH, Sr. Brought unity and consistency to the O-line. TE: Chase Whaley, ED, Sr. Whaley had seven catches for 129 yards, a TD, a pair of 2-point conversions and blocking grade of 95.34. 2nd TEAM DEFENSE DL: Trashawn Ruffin, ND, So. A two-way stud. Made 52 tackles. DL: Deashawn Taylor, WRH, Sr. Had a solid senior season.

Wesley Holmes ND, Jr., DB

DL: Dmarion Artis, JK, Jr. He is a player to watch in 2024.

Holmes averaged 6.1 tackles per game, had three interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

DL: Alneilus Smith, JK, Sr. Coaches love his style of play.

Sedrick Lawson ED, Jr., DL

Josh Mitchell JK, Jr., DB/RB

LB: Ethan Turnage, ND, So. Made a team-high 97 tackles. His future is bright.

Lawson drug down 51 players, including 34 solo and 17 assisted tackles.

Mitchell was one of JK’s speedsters in the offensive backfield, yet he

LB: Echelon Murphy, WRH, Sr. Had a consistent senior season.

KaShawn Scarborough WRH, Sr., LB

Shykown Williams JK, Sr., Athlete

To some observers, Scarborough was the best defensive player in the WRH stable. He went out in style, showing foes he had to be accounted for on most plays.

Williams, who was strong and fast, was perhaps the best Tiger defender aside from Kornegay.

LB: Austin Wolfe, ND, So. Made 60 tackles in surprising season.

He was a leader through words and his play.

QB: Reid Page, WRH, Sr. Hit on 26 of 51 for 503 yards and 6 TDs.

Jordan Hall ED, Sr., LB Hall made 114 tackles (55 solo, 60 assists), three sacks and had seven tackles for lost yardage.

Khemani Murphy WRH, Sr., DL

Luke Hughes

Murphy was key to an improved defense for the Bulldogs.

Hughes followed in footsteps of several Panther linebackers and proved he belonged with 112 tackles (63 solo, 58 assisted), including 12 for lost yardage, four sacks, an interception, two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.

“He’s so athletic, quick, and could get off blocks split double teams as well as chase things down from the backside,” Motsinger said.

“He’s very athletic, fast and physical,” Motsinger said. “He very quite, humble young man, and an ultimate team player.”

2nd TEAM OFFENSE

RB: Stephone Stanley, JK, Jr. Ran for more than 1,000 yards RB: Jamarae Lamb, WRH, So. Ran 96 times for 839 yards and eight TDs. RB: Carell Phillips, ND, Jr. Ran 74 times for 674 yards and eight scores. OL: Juan Instroza, WRH, Sr. A stud on the line who also stepped up to PK.

LB: Jamari Shaw, WRH, Sr. Shaw was WRH’s most consistent LB. DB: Kam Thomas, WRH, Sr. He’s the “quiet assassin” who preferred a hard hit over an interception. SS: Nate Jones, ED, Sr. Unsung player. Made 81 tackles, had two interceptions and two sacks. DB: Brendan Reyna, ND, Sr. Kicked, played RB and key on defense for the Rebels. DB: Ja’Corey Boney, WRH, Sr. Switched from SE to secondary after WRH scored. PK: Brayan Guadardo, JK, Sr. Hit on 47 of 50 PATs and his only FG attempt.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

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TJ Oats James Kenan, boys’ basketball Junior guard TJ Oats has become a scoring machine at James Kenan. Oats is averaging 17 ppg., as the Tigers entered the week with a 5-3 mark. “He can score at three levels (upclose, midrange and from behind the 3-point line),” said Tiger coach Taylor Jones. “He’s a great kid who puts in extra work, which is a hard sell these days. But that’s where the results are.” Oats had 21 in JK’s recent win over Spring Creek, and 29 against 3A Southern Wayne earlier this season. “His ball handling and defense has improved,” Jones said. “He’s a player who sets up chairs to work on his dribbling after a practice. “You have to respect someone who works that hard to become a better player. “He’s a respectful and coachable kid.” JK hosts East Duplin on Friday in Warsaw.

FILE PHOTO

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2023

Panther boys, girls exact revenge on Rebels By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE – Call it revenge night for the Panthers. Two basketball teams avenged previous losses last Wednesday on Jerry Houston Court when the East Duplin girls and boys teams took down their respective counterparts from North Duplin. The Panther boys garnered their first win of the season 7463, to reverse a 67-53 setback to the Rebels on Dec. 1. Calvin Harper tossed in 21, Zachary Ball 15 and Jordan Hall 12 as ED (1-7, 0-2) reached a season-high in points. The wakeup call could be just what the doctor would order for the Panthers, who travel to Warsaw on Friday to face James Kenan in a key ECC test. Dujuan Armwood scored 24 and Micha Lesesane 14 for North Duplin, who start Carolina 1A Conference play on Friday with a trip to Smithfield to face Neuse Charter (3-14). ED took control in the second quarter with a 28-9 rush to go up 43-26 at halftime. Ball zipped in seven straight points via two layup and a 3-pointer to forge a 36-24 advantage midway through the second quarter. Ryan Jenkins added a bucket and two charity tosses and Ball another basket and ED was in full control. ND slowly edged its way back into the game as Armwood and Lesesane got untracked during a 15-1 run that cut it to 49-45. But an inside hoop by Hall and steal and layup by Jenkins made it 53-47 entering the fourth quarter. ED rose to the occasion as Hall made two more shots and Cedrick Lawson (nine points) spearheaded a 19-6 streak to put the game away. But not without a final push from the Rebels. Behind Armwood a long shot by Branson Martin’s trey, ND got to within nine – 72-61 – with 57 seconds left. Deep Panthers girls dust off Rebels East Duplin (9-1) put on a clinic in showing its depth during a 60-27 win that put a

PHOTOS BY EDUARDO PUAC FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Left, Addy Higginbotham, right, and ND were hurt by 10 points from ED freshman Ava Noble. Right, ED’s Jordan Hall, left, and ND’s Micah Lesesane battle in the paint. wrap over a 53-39 loss to ND (5-5) on Dec. 1. The Panthers went seven players score six or more points. Frosh Kinsey Cave and Ava Noble each had 10. Sallie Hatcher, Zakoya Farrior and Ja’Myah Pickett and chipped in eight apiece, Makya Kornegay seven, and Carrie Carr six. Hatcher and ND’s Reece Outlaw had matching 3-pointer to keep it close early. But ND’s forced and unforce turnovers quickly became a factor as the Rebels trailed 18-8 after eight minutes. Noble and Cave worked together for three baskets during a stretch that pushed the lead to 26-13. A spin move and hoop by Noble sent the margin to 28-17 at halftime. Hatcher, the county’s leading 3-point artist a season ago, hit a

bomb to start ED third-quarter 12-5 uprising. Cave connected for a hoop and ED was up 4022 entering the fourth. Kornegay, Pickett, Hatcher, Noble and Carr provided the scoring in the 20-7 streak to end the game. ND lost its fourth straight, all to 2A schools. The Rebels start anew Tuesday against Neuse Charter in Smithfield. It’s the first Carolina 1A Conference matchup for both schools. Bulldogs top Devils, Tigers pop Gators The Wallace-Rose Hill boys (3-5) snapped a two-game skid last Friday after a 77-60 triumph over South Lenoir in Deep Run as Jamarae Lamb and KeyShawn Scarborough each netted 16 points.

Devon Sloan added eight markers, Marlo Harris seven and Irving Brown, Matthew Wells, Jamari Shaw and Khalil Mathis each threw down for five. The first half was fairly even as WRH led 41-22 at halftime. The Bulldogs used a 29-14 edge in the third to cruise. WRH hosted North Lenoir (5-8, 1-1) on Wednesday and will travel to Southwest Onslow (94, 2-0) on Friday. James Kenan (5-4) rolled Spring Creek 80-53 in its lone game last week in preparation for an encounter with ED on Friday. TJ Oats scored 19 points to top the scoring (See Athlete of the Week on Page 9 for an update on the junior). JK’s girls (5-4, 1-0) will likewise get a test from the ED girls.

HCA in conference race Harrells Christian stayed in the mix in the NCISAA’s Coastal Independent 2A Conference after a loss to league-leader and favorite Fayettville Academy by toasting its next three loop schools. That includes last Friday’s 90-30 shellacking of KerrVance Academy. Top scorer Antonio McKoy pumped in 25, Zacareian McNeil 17, Hakeem Murphy 15, Jonathan Fillyaw 10 and Collin Cole nine. HCA (12-8, 3-1) travel to Rocky Mount on Friday for a key league confrontation with Faith Christian (8-4, 3-1). HCA’s girls squad (7-6, 2-2) slipped past Kerr-Vance 40-36 in the first game of the night last Friday for its second win in a row.

Mayfield gets redemption with win over Panthers, NFC South title The former Carolina quarterback led the Buccaneers to the playoffs By Steve Reed The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — The coincidence wasn’t lost on Baker Mayfield. Standing in the same room at Bank of America Stadium where he was informed late last season by the Carolina Panthers he was being released, Mayfield spoke to reporters about winning an NFC South championship with his new team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Personal redemption? Check. “There’s a lot of things that bring me back to here,” Mayfield said. “But that is what happens when you go to a team within the division and you have memories of playing with them.” Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals, Tampa Bay’s defense forced two turnovers and the Buccaneers defeated the Panthers on Sunday 9-0 to win their third straight NFC South title and reach the playoffs for the fourth straight season. For Mayfield, returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2020 was satisfying and not only because it came against the Panthers, where he was 1-5 as a starter last season before being waived on Dec. 5.

Mayfield has struggled to find career stability, playing for his fourth team in three seasons. He was traded by Cleveland, released by Carolina and not re-signed by the Los Angeles Rams in a two-year span. He bounced back this season going 9-8 as a starter for the Buccaneers, completing 64.4% of his passes for 3,907 yards with 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He beat the Panthers twice. “I’ve been through a lot,” Mayfield said. “But I have had a lot of help along the way.” The biggest question moving forward might be how effective Mayfield will be when the Buccaneers host the Philadelphia Eagles in a wild card game next weekend. Mayfield came into Sunday’s game with sore ribs and suffered an ankle injury against the Panthers, although he remained in the game. The 2018 No. 1 overall pick walked with a slight limp as he entered the interview room. He said he’s looking forward to healing up. “I’ll see how he feels and how he goes through his treatment and we’ll make a decision based on how the week goes,” Bucs coach Todd Bowles said. Kyle Trask is Tampa Bay’s backup quarterback and John Wolford is the third string. The 28-year-old Mayfield wasn’t particularly happy with

AP PHOTO

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield works in the pocket as Panthers pass rusher Brian Burns applies pressure during Tampa Bay’s 9-0 win Sunday in Charlotte. his own play, finishing 20 of 32 passing for 137 yards with no touchdowns. He just missed on a long connection with Mike Evans in the first quarter. “I got to be better,” Mayfield said. “They ran a lot of two-shell defense and there was some stuff that was open underneath and I have to be better in that facet.”

“He was banged up,” Bowles said of Mayfield’s performance. “But the times he had to throw they had great coverage. You’ve got to credit their defense too. They played very good defense. We were off and weren’t clicking on all cylinders.” But Mayfield likes Tampa Bay’s chances heading into the playoffs, where it could be a home underdog despite win-

ning five of its final six games. Like Mayfield, the Bucs have been counted out time and time again, particularly after losing six of seven games during one stretch. “We have a locker room full of guys that are comfortable being counted out,” Mayfield said. “All we wanted was a chance to get in and now we are here and we have to handle it the right way.”

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, January 10, 2024

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