Dustin Swinson, Abby Cannon, Neal Mobley, Ryan Schallock, Justin Chapman, Luis Arellano and Canaan Weston were honored with the EMS Lifesaver Award at the County Commissioners meeting in Kenansville on June 3 for their heroic actions. Stay tuned for a story in next week’s newspaper.
Deadline for NCDA Resilient Food System Infrastructure grant applications June 15
Statewide North Carolina farmers, food hubs and small businesses interested in applying for the NCDA Resilient Food System Infrastructure grant, can visit carolinafarmstewards.org/ event/rfsi-grant-informationsession/ to attend a webinar about the grant process. Applications for equipment only and infrastructure grants are due June 15.
DJS
Applications for 2024-26 cohort of North Carolina AHEC Scholars Program being accepted
Statewide Eastern Area Heath Education Center is accepting applications for the 2024-26 cohort of the North Carolina AHEC Scholars Program through June 15. The Eastern AHEC Scholars Program recruits, trains and supports a diverse group of students enrolled in health professions programs across the state in a 23-county service area. With an emphasis on underrepresented minorities, rural and rst-generation college students, the program aims to improve the diversity and distribution of all health professions. This program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students as long as they can commit to the full two years. Students must be enrolled in a health professions program during the duration of the program and graduate in 2026. Visit easternahec.net/student.../ nc-ahec-scholars-2/or more information.
The EPA awarded school districts in North Carolina $19 million to purchase 56 electric school buses. This was part of nearly $1 billion in nationwide grant awards announced this week. The Clean School Bus Program grants were funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which authorized a total of $5 billion for electric and low-emission school buses. $3 billion has already been allocated across several years of grants. Freightliner, the parent company of Thomas Built Buses, has signi cant operations in North Carolina and manufactures electric school buses at its facility in High Point.
Duplin County celebrated the former airport director and assistant county manager with a special ceremony
By Ena Sellers Duplin JournalKENANSVILLE — Last Tuesday
marked an incredibly special milestone for Duplin County as more than 60 distinguished guests, including local, regional and state leadership gathered at the Duplin County Airport to celebrate the memory and legacy of George Futrell, the former airport director and assistant county manager who died in May 2023 after post-surgical complications.
The ceremony marked a special occasion for the county and for the Futrelle family, who were honored with the unveiling of Duplin County Airport’s George Futrelle Terminal.
Sally Futrelle Gillis, Futrelle’s mother, told Duplin Journal the dedication meant a lot to her, and she just wished George were here to help with the celebration.
“This was his whole life,” said Sally about the airport. “He came here at the very beginning when they had just a little trailer and a short runway and so he saw this go from that to this and this is a
“Let this place be a beacon of excellence, a hub of connection and a symbol of the tireless e ort George brought to Duplin County.”
County Manager Bryan Miller
great day to celebrate this.”
Futrelle’s wife, Renee P. Futrelle, echoed the sentiment. “It means the world. He would not think that he was worthy,” Renee told Duplin Journal. “I think you agree, and we all know that this airport is what it is mostly because of him. He loved this place.”
Renee spoke about Futrelle’s love for the airport and his desire to make it the best it could be.
“He knew every blade of grass on this place,” said Renee with a smile, reminiscing how he considered every detail about the airport, from the grass blade length to how it compared to other airports, and after each trip he was ready to come back and make the airport even better.
See FUTRELLE , page 6
A concerned citizen spoke on a road closure
By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin JournalBEULAVILLE — The Beulaville Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the proposed budget for scal year 2024-25 during the regular monthly meeting on Monday night, June 3. The budget includes an average 2.5% pay increase for town employees, with police department employees receiving a 10% increase, in order to stay competitive with other towns in the county. The increase keeps the budget balanced, Town Manager Lori Williams said. General fund appropriations total $1,587,350, with general fund revenue ex-
“I am concerned about the safety of our community and the safety of the people that walk back there.”
Gwen Mercer, Beulaville resident
pected to also total $1,587,350. The tax rate will remain at $0.48 per $100 of taxable property. The board adopted the budget with very little discussion. In other business at the June 3 meeting, the board heard from citizen Gwen Mercer, who addressed the board with concerns about the recent partial closure of Deer Run Lane inside the town limits.
Eason will go down in history as the mastermind behind the Warsaw Veterans
By Ena Sellers Duplin JournalWARSAW — The Town of Warsaw is mourning the loss of Commissioner Russell Eason, who passed away on May 27 at his home in Warsaw.
Eason, a U.S. National Guard veteran and former Warsaw Mayor (2013-17), was known for his kind spirit and involvement in the community. He was in his second term as town commissioner, and served a bit over ve years in that capacity.
Today, Eason’s legacy stands tall at the corner of College and Front streets in Warsaw, reminding onlookers of the town’s deep military roots. The late veteran spearheaded the funding and commissioning of the veterans mural, a 70-footlong wall art that he envisioned to represent the people of Warsaw and the town’s pride — the oldest consecutive running Veterans Day Parade in the state of North Carolina. Eason’s brainchild was unveiled in 2022 and was the culmination of a dream come true.
“When I met him he was serving as mayor, and during that time he was striving to improve the town. He had a desire for the town to grow as well as the infrastructure to be repaired and updated as much as possible,” Mayor A.J. Connors told Duplin Journal. “His desire was to make Warsaw a better place to live. He really loved Warsaw.”
Eason was a dedicated public servant who served his community in many capacities.
“He served as a police o cer here in Warsaw many years ago. He became an entrepreneur, and he owned a land-clearing business hauling materials and debris, and he sat on the county planning board,” said Connors as he reminisced on Eason’s career as a public servant.
He volunteered time and resources at the Warsaw Veterans Memorial Museum where he served on the board. From fundraising to outreach e orts, he advocated for upgrades and renovations at the museum, helping secure funding needed to preserve the town’s rich military legacy and provide more accessibility to those visiting the museum in a wheelchair. The humble veteran was proud of his hometown and was the rst one to help in his community.
“I remember one of our storms that we had
“I’m concerned that our 23 homes back in that subdivision — the only subdivision in town that pays taxes and votes — was not noti ed in some way by a letter or a phone call that that was going to be brought up,” Mercer said. “I heard since then that it was put in the newspaper, and I know that’s the way it was supposed to be dealt with.
“But with the community feel, I just feel like it could’ve been handled better. I am just saying something about that in the hopes that if another situation arises like that, it will be handled better for the next people. I don’t know that any of us were mad about the situation. I think we were upset that we didn’t know anything about it until it was done.”
She also voiced concerns for
the children, elderly people and young mothers who walk the road, considering that bears have been reported in the neighborhood, as well as some criminal activity. “I am concerned about the safety of our community and the safety of the people that walk back there,” Mercer said.
Although the board took no action on the item, Mayor Hutch Jones said the town aims to be in
6.6.24
“Join the conversation”
Duplin Journal
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THURSDAY JUNE 6 FRIDAY JUNE 7
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:
JUNE 6
Murphy Family Ventures is holding a blood drive on June 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5752 S. US Highway 117 in Wallace. To schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS and use the sponsor code “Murphy Family.”
JUNE 6-7
The Mexican Consulate will be present at James Sprunt College through June 7. They will offer passport services, consular registration, birth certificate certified copies, and voting credential processing for Mexican nationals. Appointments are required. Call or send a message via WhatsApp to 424-3090009 or visit citas.sre. gob.mx to schedule an appointment.
JUNE 7
The Duplin Hospital Foundation will be holding its 20th Annual Golf Tournament at the Duplin Country Club on Friday, June 7, 2024. The event raises money in support of projects, programs and services for our hospital and community. Please consider fielding a team or being a sponsor. Registration begins at 11am with lunch at noon and tee time at 1pm. Awards will be distributed following play. Call 910-2962605 for more information.
JUNE 7-8
Join the 9th Revenge Roughstock Rodeo for the best rodeo action on dirt June 7 and 8 starting at 8 p.m. both nights at the Duplin Livestock Arena in Kenansville. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Featuring rodeo athletes, Bull Riding, Bronc Riding and Barrel Racing. No dogs or coolers allowed. Advance tickets are $15 and $10 for ages
May 28
• Daniel Ellis Hardison, 30, of Duplin, was arrested on felony probation violation charges.
May 29
• Michael Anthony Carroll, 44, of Duplin, was arrested for resisting a public o cer, assaulting a government o cial, and felony possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.
• Japeel Wanya Newkirk, 25, of Duplin, was arrested for possession of a stolen rearm, possession of marijuana up to 1/2 oz, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
• Tyler L Medcalf, 28, of Wallace, was arrested for communicating threats.
JUNE 8
JUNE 9
JUNE 10
JUNE 11
6-12. Kids 5 and under are free. Concessions will be available at the arena. Rain or shine. For information call 540-521-3959.
JUNE 8
The Disaster Preparedness Expo will be on June 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Charity Mission Center, located at 1333 W Charity Rd, Rose Hill.
Pet Friends is calling all dog lovers in Mount Olive and nearby areas to join its free group dog training classes in Wallace on June 8, 15, and 22, from 10- 11 a.m. at the Wallace Dog Park,inside Boney Mill Pond. No need to RSVP – simply leash up your pup and head to the park! Dog trainers will lead you through a series of interactive exercises designed to enhance obedience and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Remember to bring some tasty treats to reward your pups for their efforts.
Join Poston Baptist Vacation Bible School Kick-off on June 8, 10– 11:30 a.m., at 4121 NC-11 in Wallace and enjoy a Flamingo Foam Party. Please bring a towel. Lunch will be provided.
JUNE 9-13
Island Creek Baptist Church Vacation Bible School Registration Party will be June 9, 5-9 p.m., with food, fun, and games. On June 1012 meal will start at 5 p.m., with classes from 5:30-9 p.m. for all ages. Snacks will be provided. Everyone is invited to Commencement service on June 13, come out and be a part of what God is doing. Enjoy fun and fellowship in the Lord at 237 Pasture Branch Rd., Rose
May 30
• Ashley Marie Edwards, 34, of Duplin, was arrested for a probation violation.
• Brandon Michael Teachey, 33, of Duplin, was arrested for felony larceny and a parole violation.
• Laura Lynette Lucas, 45, of Duplin, was arrested for nancial card theft, obtaining property by false pretense, and a felony probation violation.
May 31
• Christopher Michael Leary, 51, of Duplin, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle/ dwelling place for a controlled substance, and obstructing justice.
• Nekreidra Monkie Smith, 47, of Warsaw, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretense, canceling/ revoking a suspended certi cate tag, and ctitious alteration of a title/registration card/tag.
June 1
• Cameron D’Shon Hall, 24, of Duplin, was arrested for rst degree burglary, second degree trespass, and resisting a public o cer.
• Lazaro Javier Torres, 30, of Duplin, was arrested for failure to register as a sex o ender.
June 2
• Cameron McGaha, 21, of North Carolina, was arrested for eeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, possession of a
Hill. For more details, call 910-284-0745.
JUNE 15
There will be a community health fair at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Mount Olive on June 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. What do you need? Pantries? Haircut? Medical services? You can find all that and more completely free at the health fair. The event will also feature Zumba, music, free food, and activities for children.
JUNE 22
Join the Duplin County Food Truck & Vendor Fest at the Duplin Events Center on June 22, from noon to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy food trucks, vendors, live music & more. The British Invaders Band, a sensational Beatles and ‘60s Tribute Band, will take the stage at noon, followed by the soulful sounds of Mamer’s own Dalton Davis at 2 p.m. Heart Breaker will take the stage at 4 p.m. and Rivermist will close the night with performances kicking off at 6 p.m. Gates Open at 11:30 a.m. Admission is $5 at the door.
HAPPENING MONTHLY
The Duplin County Board of County Commissioners meets the rst and third Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 224 Seminary St., Kenansville. For information, call 910-296-2100.
The Beulaville town board meets the rst Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at 508 East Main St., Beulaville. For more information, call 910-2984647.
The Town of Calypso meets at the council chambers the rst Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 103 W. Trade Street. For information, call 919-6589221.
The Faison town board meets the rst Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., at 110 NE Center St., Faison. For more information, call 910-2672721.
The Economic Development Board meets the rst Friday of the month at 7 a.m. at the Duplin County Airport Conference Room.
The Greenevers town board meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m., at 314 E. Charity Rd. For information, call 910-2893078.
The Teachey town board meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 116 East 2nd St. For information, call 910-285-7564.
The Warsaw town board meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 121 S. Front St. For information, call 910-293-7814.
The Magnolia town board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., at 108 Taylor St., Magnolia. For information, call 910-2893205.
The Rose Hill town board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., at 103 Southeast Railroad St. For more information, call 910289-3159.
The Duplin County Health Department is offering Diabetes Self Management Classes from 1-5 p.m., the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month at 340 Seminary St. Kenansville. For information, call 910-372-9178.
The Wallace town council meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., at 316 East Murray St., Wallace. For more information, call 910-285-4136.
stolen motor vehicle, and driving while impaired.
June 3
• Dalton Ray Cavenaugh, 29, of Duplin, was arrested for misdemeanor larceny, open container alcohol violation, and driving while license revoked (not impaired).
• Justin Thomas Chapins, 34, of Duplin, was arrested for assault on a child under 12 and assault on a female.
• John Issac Fueller, 26, of Duplin, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and breaking and/or entering.
• Michael Danielle Lanier, 41, of Duplin, was arrested for breaking and entering vehicles.
• Francisco Lizardi Vargas, 48, of Kenansville, was arrested for being intoxicated and disruptive, second degree trespass, and soliciting alms/ begging for money.
Retired Lt. Mike Maready (left) stands next to Sheri Stratton Stokes last week during a special recognition gathering honoring him for his service to the citizens of Duplin County. Maready retired after more than three decades in law enforcement. He served with the Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce for 12 years. Stokes presented Maready with a special plaque commemorating his dedication and service. According to the Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce website, Maready began his law enforcement career with the Division of Prisons and the Division of Adult Probation and Parole in 1992, and he joined the Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce in 2012. He served in the Civil Division/Uniform Patrol Division and as a Field Training O cer.
Matthew Pope of Shelby joined the church May 26
By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin JournalMATTHEW POPE, originally from Shelby, wasn’t raised in the Methodist Church, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t the perfect choice for Wallace Methodist Church’s new pastor.
“I was raised Southern Baptist,” Pope told Duplin Journal. “I grew up in a Christian home and we attended church as much as possible.”
Pope said he had his “conversion moment” as a senior in high school, and went on to study theology at Belmont Abbey College before attending seminary at Baptist Theological Seminary. Although he grew up Baptist and went to seminary at Baptist Theological Seminary, he said he was ordained by the Evangelical Association, a nondenominational entity.
“So what happened was when I began to preach and become an associate pastor, it really made me realize that God can use me anywhere, with any type of people,” he explained.
Following college and after living in a couple of di erent places and growing his faith, Pope ironically moved to Faith, N.C., a town just outside of Salisbury, to be closer to his parents.
“So they had started attending a church there, Mount Hope Church, and I got involved pretty much as soon as I moved back,” Pope recalled. “I got involved, joined right away, and my pastor at the time, my mentor, Dr. Johnny Boggs. … We worked together and we had what we call an agreement of the spirit.”
After preaching his rst on-
“We want people to come, learn about the Word and feel encouraged when they leave. And empowered, too.”
Matthew Pope, new Wallace Methodist Church pastor
stage sermon at his parents’ church, Pope began a sermon series on Sunday nights. Other area churches became aware of him, and he had several ongoing arrangements as guest pastor, followed by a 90-day pastorate with Center Grove Church, in Midland. At the same time, he was submitting resumes to churches all over the state — including Wallace
Methodist. “I just happened to make contact with this church,” he said, “and they got back with me right away. Immediately from there, we found this spiritual agreement. They said, ‘We’re looking for a pastor,’ and I said, ‘I’m looking for a church,’ and we just kind of matched. God’s plan, God’s hands, we just matched completely. The rest is history, and I’m here.”
He o cially joined the church as pastor on May 26, though he’d preached several trial sermons beforehand. And as far as not having grown up or preached in strictly Methodist churches, Pope said he was actually drawn to Wallace because it’s an independent Methodist church. “I have a heart for Methodist churches coming out of that
KENANSVILLE — A group of young men with the Faison Sea Scout Ship 55 was recognized for their sel ess dedication and volunteerism to Duplin County at the June 3 County Commissioners meeting held at the Ed Emory Auditorium in Kenansville.
The group, comprised of Michael Stempek, George Carr, Samuel Carr, Genaro Pacheco, Benjamin Bullard, Frank Manuel-Tomas, Victor Chilel, Julio Perez, Dante Santibanez and Jose Lopez, was nominated for the 2024 Governor Volunteer Service Award in the Veteran/ Military, Youth Service and Health and Human Services group categories.
“These young men have worked together to maintain and enhance the Town of Faison Community Garden by planting, fertilizing, watering and cultivating crops that are given freely to anyone in the community,” said Melisa Brown, Duplin County Senior Services director, asking the Sea Scouts and Bri-
“These young men have worked together to maintain and enhance the Town of Faison Community Garden by planting, fertilizing, watering and cultivating crops that are given freely to anyone in the community.”
Melisa Brown, Duplin County Senior Services director
an Bullard, Sea Scout Ship 55 committee chair, to come forward for the recognition.
“They provided bilingual signage for the Faison Community Garden so as to be welcoming and inclusive to the entire community. They worked together to build an 8-by-10 storage building for tools, as well as two benches that convert into a picnic table. The adoption of the Faison Community Garden is vitally important to the health and wellbeing of the town residents since the town lost their
See SCOUTS , page 5
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
In this building, we have had our priorities backward.
CHILD CARE is an essential issue for so many North Carolinians. This is a serious issue that our state faces, but legislative inaction so far means that thousands of families across this state are being left in limbo.
The federal government funded child care stabilization grants that are set to end this summer. That money has been a lifeline for working families and the business community, ensuring that child care centers can continue to function and that working parents can make it to work. But with that money ending, now the state needs to step up and bridge the divide.
The pressure on child care is coming from above and below. Too many working families are simply unable to a ord the high cost of child care in our state today. That leads to working parents having to withdraw from the workforce in order to take care of their children. The statistics on this are eye-popping: 34% of working mothers and 20% of working fathers are leaving their jobs because the cost of child care is too high.
On the other hand, it is di cult for child care centers to stay a oat. Wages are too low in the industry, leading to fewer people joining the child care workforce and further exacerbating the ability of these centers to take in children. Twenty- ve percent of child care centers closed between 2016 and 2021. A third of the remaining centers are liable to close when the Child Care Stabilization Grants dry up. This is a crisis, and we need to address it.
One of North Carolina’s best attributes on the national and global stage is our outstanding workforce. It’s the reason we have secured billions of dollars of economic investment and thousands of new jobs. The business community understands the need to have a well-funded child care system, and
COLUMN | BETSY MCCAUGHEY
The Environmental Protection Agency awarded a $50 million “environmental justice” grant to the Climate Justice Alliance.
TO BET on the upcoming presidential election, don’t just rely on polls. Look at the billions of taxpayer dollars President Joe Biden is pouring into “community organizations” in “disadvantaged communities” to tip the election scales.
The community organizer who became president, Barack Obama, was a master at machine politics, using federal tax dollars to turn community organizations — left-wing not-for-pro ts — into a fth estate. Their sta s, paid using taxpayer money but not tied to government rules, could hit the streets at election time and build turnout. Biden has scaled up Obama’s playbook, using billions of dollars instead of mere millions.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) made headlines last week with the discovery that in Dec. 2023 the Environmental Protection Agency awarded a $50 million “environmental justice” grant to the Climate Justice Alliance. Capito is distressed to learn that the Climate Justice Alliance vows “the path to climate justice travels through a free Palestine.”
In fact, Climate Justice Alliance serves up a full agenda of radical activities, including ghting “political oppression” and “placing race, gender, and class at the center” of its climate solutions.
But $50 million for the Climate Justice
the working families who rely on it most days of the week surely do too. We need this General Assembly to understand how dire it is that this funding be provided.
Instead, the focus of this session so far has been to subsidize private school education for millionaires. In this building, we have had our priorities backward. How much more of an impact would hundreds of millions of dollars for child care centers have on our state than handouts to wealthy families for private school tuition?
With the money proposed for the taxpayerfunded voucher scheme, we could invest in child care subsidies to wipe away the current waitlist of more than 5,000 kids. We could create a statewide rate oor that helps ensure rural lowwealth communities can a ord child care. We could shore up the Child Care Stabilization Grants program. And we could adequately fund Pre-K to cover nearly 30,000 students and keep teachers in classrooms. This and more is included in Gov. Roy Cooper’s budget proposal.
We are making a simple proposition here: provide funding to the programs that actually help the working and middle-class people of this state.
Won’t that have more of an impact for working families? Doesn’t that really address the concerns that North Carolinians have every night at the kitchen table? Working people in this state are being left behind by the inaction in this building while the wealthiest folks and corporations see their tax bill drop every year. The people who go to work 9-5 and struggle to make ends meet are the ones we should be focused on helping.
Robert Reives II is the N.C. House Democratic leader.
To the citizens of Warsaw. My name is Thomas Owen and, like many of you, I live and work in our wonderful community of Warsaw. Warsaw is positioned geographically to grow in size and importance in the next decade but that may not occur if we do not take immediate action. Presently, our waste water treatment facility will reach the end of its functional life in 5 years and it is almost at full capacity now. What does this end of functional life mean for you and me? Quite simply it means, that unless we act now, no new homes can be permitted to be built. Also, existing businesses cannot grow and new businesses will not be able to call Warsaw home.
I recently reached out to our legislators in Raleigh and Washington and they assured me that the funds should be available for this waste water treatment plant work. I am asking you to please reach out to representatives at the addresses provided below and ask them to please work with our mayor and the Warsaw town council to secure these funds so that this vital work can commence: Congressman Greg Murphy gregmurphyforms.house. gov/contact/email-me.htm
State Representative Jimmy Dixon Jimmy.Dixon@ncleg.gov
Alliance is a drop in the bucket.
Had members of Congress read the In ation Reduction Act before passing it — a novel idea — they would know the law provides $2.8 billion to the EPA for environmental and climate justice block grants,” (Section 60201). That’s a license to hand out walking-around money to many political activists, not just the Climate Justice Alliance.
Another recipient: the New York Immigration Coalition, which describes itself as a “coalition of immigrant and refugee organizations” pushing for more government services and political clout. Same is true of the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, another recipient. The words “climate” and “environment” don’t appear anywhere on these groups’ websites or literature.
Lawmakers may have assumed the money was for climate improvement, but the IRA’s ne print allows the moolah to be used for “facilitating engagement of marginalized communities in Local, State and Federal public processes, such as advisory groups, workshops, rulemakings.” Translation: elections.
How easy is it to get the dough? Piece of cake. The EPA says it wants to “alleviate much of the burden that the federal grants process places on small, resource-constrained community-
State Senator Brent Jackson Brent.Jackson@ncleg.gov
I greatly appreciate your e orts in making sure that Warsaw has a vibrant future.
Respectfully, Thomas Owen, Warsaw
Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to ena@northstatejournal. com Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary.
WARSAW from page 1
here, trees had fallen down on the road, and he brought out his own personal equipment to help get it cleared o the road,” said Connors. “He was a downto-earth type of person.
“He wanted to increase the town and activities. He created a farm fest that he used to have in the springtime every year. … While he was serving, they started a conversation with C2 North Carolina to bring
SCOUTS from page 3
only grocery store some years ago, and people would have to otherwise travel elsewhere to purchase fruits and vegetables.” Brown shared that the Sea Scouts volunteer their time coaching the youth soccer and basketball programs with the Faison Recreation Department. The group also repaired a picnic table and built two oth-
disa liation process because there’s a lot of churches that were hurt,” he said. “I think forcibly, they were closed. So you had, in a sense, a denomination that was closing churches rather than helping them and keeping them a oat, which was counterintuitive, theologically and practically.”
Having lived in Wilmington previously with extended family there, Pope said he was
the biogas — that was started during his time as mayor. His objectives were always to try to increase things here.”
Connors also shared that Eason had a desire to bring softball and baseball to the Warsaw Recreation Center to host tournaments and was a big advocate for senior citizens.
“He pushed to open up the recreation center so that the
ers for the park so parents can have a place to sit and watch their children and people can have a spot to enjoy their lunch at the park.
“Realizing the need for central places for citizens to drop o tattered U.S. ags that needed proper retiring, members of Ship 55 created and decorated ag retirement drop boxes that were placed at Faison Town Hall and in front of the Faison Library and Well-
drawn to the coastal area. “I saw that it was an independent Methodist church, which was really attractive to me, and I obviously had a prior history with those kinds of churches,” he said. “And then it was honestly, after making that connection and talking with them, it was just the hospitality.
“They’re so welcoming and accommodating. Since being installed, I’ve seen that over and over again. It’s just the kindness that made me under-
based organizations supporting underserved communities and marginalized populations.” In short, no jumping through hoops.
The money can only go to a disadvantaged community or a southern border town. There are 27,521 disadvantaged communities on the census map, according to Biden’s “Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool,” which targets non-English speakers, people with diabetes, and other factors that mostly correspond to heavily minority populations. These communities customarily vote Democratic.
Adding eligibility for border towns is an interesting twist. As waves of migrants overwhelm resources in these towns, Democrats are growing divided over Biden’s open border policies. Money may shore up support.
During his rst week as president, Biden announced the Justice40
county could bring lunch for senior citizens,” Connors said. A service will be held on Saturday, June 8 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw at 2 p.m.. Eason is survived by his wife Crystal Eason; son Dail Eason and his wife, Meridith Brown Eason; stepson Shawn Michael Brown; stepdaughter Michelle Catherin Brown, and two grandchildren, Fallon Lanier and Willow Brown Eason.
“His desire was to make Warsaw a better place to live. He really loved Warsaw.”
Warsaw Mayor A.J. Connors
ness Center. A considerable number of U.S. ags have been collected and will be retired in a respectful ceremony on Flag Day,” said Brown, adding that at the request of North Duplin Elementary, the Sea Scouts built a wooden gaga-ball pit at the school for the children to play and burn energy. The group also pressure-washed and repaired existing picnic tables at North Duplin High School and donated two new
stand that God was working all those things for good.”
Pope moved to Wallace, just four blocks away from the church, which is located on College Street. He said he loves the small town feel of Wallace.
“Everyone knows each other, and in some way, we’re all connected,” he said. “As a pastor, that’s been super awesome because … it allows me to minis
ter more e ectively.”
As for Wallace Methodist’s future under his tenure as
initiative by executive order, requiring that 40% of many types of federal spending — not just EPA grants — must go to these “disadvantaged communities.”
The Department of Energy is spreading money to these “disadvantaged communities,” using what it calls “community benefit plans” and promising that application requirements will be “intentionally flexible.”
The playbook started with the Affordable Care Act. The ACA, or “Obamacare,” authorized the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to hand out “community transformation grants.” Community Health Councils, a typical recipient, pledged that its mission was to advance “social justice.” It distributed 65% of the money to partner community groups that promoted “voter engagement,” conducted “one-on-one education in the streets” or led tenants’ rights,
picnic tables they built for the students.
“Sea Scouts worked together to construct and landscape new signs for two Faison-area churches that needed signage. This was greatly appreciated by the congregations,” Brown added.
Chair Dexter Edwards then presented the young men with a volunteer pin award and certi cate from North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper.
pastor, Pope said a big priority is attracting children and younger people. The church is looking at Vacation Bible School options and will host an art camp next month.
“One of the biggest things for this church in my mind is visibility, getting us out in the community,” he said. “We want to be an invitational church. We want people to come, learn about the Word and feel encouraged when they leave. And empowered, too.”
anti-fracking and anti-drilling efforts. And you thought the ACA was about covering the uninsured. A decade after Obama, Biden is tasking every agency and department of the federal government to promote voter engagement.
Biden’s community grants pale in size compared to the student debt cancellation vote-buying that now totals $620 billion. But the community grant money lands directly in the hands of political activists who know what to do with it. Tell your congressional rep to read the bills before voting on them and strip out these provisions for community giveaways that make a mockery of democracy.
Betsy McCaughey is a former lieutenant governor of New York and chairman of the Committee to Reduce Infection Deaths.
communication with every citizen in town and would take her concerns into consideration.
The board also heard an update on an abandoned house on West Church Street, which has been discussed at the past several meetings. Williams said that the family that owns the property refused a certi ed letter sent about the property, so the town will
move forward with getting quotes on the demolition and clean-up of the property.
Also at the May meeting, the board had discussed enacting a resolution to require annexation if property owners inside the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) wished to tap in to the town’s water and sewer lines.
Town attorney Justin Hunter clari ed that the resolution would be e ective as of its approval, so it
2 Units
The storage units contents will be sold for nonpayment of storage rental fees. Bid amounts start at the price owed on the units.
Auction Date: June 28th 10 a.m. at Johnson Storage 5786 S Us 117 Hwy Wallace, Nc 28466
Duplin County’s unemployment rate dips below 3% Duplin County
The not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for Duplin County for the month of April was at 2.9%, the 15th-lowest rate in the state. That number was down 0.3% from March’s rate, and just 0.1% higher than the same time period last year. The 2.9% rate means that of Dublin’s estimated workforce of 26,242, 751 individuals received unemployment bene ts during the month of April. Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.8% while Greene, Buncombe and Ashe Counties each had the lowest at 2.6%.
Wallace police captain earns leadership certi cate
Wallace Wallace Police Capt. Weston Padgett recently completed the Leadership Certi cate Program through the North Carolina Justice Academy. “The Leadership Certi cate Program (LCP) is a challenging, 400hour pursuit toward leadership excellence,” according to the N.C. Justice Academy’s website. “It is designed to enhance leaders serving as or preparing to someday serve as criminal justice executives (chiefs, deputy chiefs, chief deputies, wardens, civilian support administrators, etc.).” In a Facebook post, the Wallace PD called the certi cate “a tremendous accomplishment.” “We are proud to have you in the Wallace PD family,” the post reads.
JSCC o ers free online seminars for small business owners
Duplin County James Sprunt Community College’s Small Business Center o ers free online seminars every month for small business owners, or those wishing to start their own businesses. Here are the online seminars available over the next few weeks: How to Start a Mobile Food Business, June 10, 7-9 p.m.; Business Photography for Non-Photographers, June 11, 6-7 p.m.; AI for Agriculture, June 12, 7-8:30 p.m.; Launching Your Airbnb Biz: A Beginner Masterclass — Part 2, June 13, 6-8 p.m. To register for any of these courses, visit ncsbc.net/Events. aspx and select James Sprunt Community College as the location.
would only apply to new requests for the town’s water and sewer service.
The resolution was approved unanimously.
In other business at the June 3 meeting:
• The board learned that the police department has received a $29,500 grant from the Governor’s Crime Control Commission, which will be used to update body cameras and dash cameras for all o cers.
• The commissioners voted to move forward with applying for an Urban Forestry Grant, which would add trees to the walking trail and playgrounds at the town park. A preliminary plan will be presented to the board at a future meeting.
• Jones stated that he wanted to start budget meetings for the next scal year no later than September.
• Hunter stated the town of Clinton had a banner celebrating graduating high school seniors and he thought Beulaville should do something similar for next year. The mayor said Duke Energy had been replacing some poles in town without coordinating with the town rst, so some of the ags hung on light poles have been lost.
The board will next meet on July 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Beulaville Town Hall.
After the Duplin Airport terminal dedication ceremony held on June 4, concluded, Samantha
helped Joshua Raynor, Airport Director, moving Futrelle’s portrait to the vestibule where it will be permanently
FUTRELLE from page 1
The ceremony began with a speech from County Manager Bryan Miller, who spoke about Futrelle’s dedication and forward thinking.
“George not only advanced our airport standing in the aviation community but also inspired countless individuals with his gentle but unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Miller as he welcomed guests.
“Your presence here stands as a testament to the profound impact George had on so many lives... Let this place be a beacon of excellence, a hub of connection and a symbol of the tireless e ort George brought to Duplin County.”
Mayor A.J Connors spoke about Futrelle’s gift to touch hearts. He was followed by Jack Alphin, Duplin County Airport Commission chair and a pilot. He reminisced about the airport’s early days and the rst time he landed at the airport, describing it as a two-lane road. “There wasn’t much to it … not a telephone site or a building at that time,” said Alphin.
Futrelle began his career at the Duplin airport in 1989, leaving for about a year to follow his dream of working at a large airport.
“So, he left us and went to Raleigh-Durham. … We hated to see George leave because we loved him and he did a great job here, but that was the best investment that this airport ever made, and probably that this county ever made,” said Alphin about letting Futrelle pursue that dream.
“He went to Raleigh-Durham and became operations o cer, and one of George’s proudest accomplish-
ments in that year was he coordinated the visit of President Bill Clinton. He had a picture forever in his o ce of Air Force One sitting on the tarmac at Raleigh-Durham and he coordinated all that with the Secret Service. … George would always talk about that and how proud he was that he was able to have that project. ... After a year, we had a di erent FBO operative, and it became obvious that we needed George back.
So a group of folks that were at the airport got together and talked about what we had to do to get George back.”
Alphin shared that the experience gave Futrelle a lot of experience.
“George always had the ability to get the money, to get the plans together to be able to be ready when the opportunity came for expansion. There’s been a lot of growth here under George’s leadership,” said Alphin as he spoke about the airport’s infrastructure and the changes it has experienced in the last 30 years.
“George was a leader in the aviation community. He was a legend in the aviation administration business,” said Alphin.
Duplin County Commissioners Chair Dexter Edwards as well as Rep. Jimmy Dixon, held back tears as they spoke about Futrell, his leadership and kind soul.
After the plaque unveiling and a speech from Joshua Raynor, airport director, he invited Futrelle’s daughters, Samantha Futrelle Lee and Meredith Futrelle, to bring their dad’s photograph to the vestibule where it will be permanently displayed. The ceremony concluded with a reception at the terminal.
Below, left, approximately 60 guests, including local, regional and state leadership gathered at the Duplin County Airport to celebrate the memory and legacy of George Futrell during a dedication ceremony on June 4 in Kenansville. Below right, Jack Alphin, Duplin County Airport Commission chair, speaks about George Futrell’s legacy.
ED’s Rodriguez, Jones, Kisler, Roblero, WRH’s Debman and JK’s Chirinos lead the all-star parade
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin JournalBEULAVILLE — Perhaps there’s some kind meaning behind what transpired in girls’ soccer this spring when a longtime teacher who never played the game is the top coach, a freshman is the top player and all four schools had successful campaigns, though one would be mistaken to judge wins over growth.
East Duplin and Wallace-Rose Hill had program peaks.
James Kenan’s potential was ashed in the form of youth, a theme in Duplin County.
And North Duplin worked its way through the loss of a key assistant, yet forged together to have a remarkable season in which the Rebels grew on and o the pitch.
Duplin’s Elite’s rst all-county girls’ soccer team is bending its way into the goal of Duplin Journal.
The girls of Duplin join their counterpart males, who play in the fall, plus football, softball, baseball and boys’ and girls’ basketball teams on the Journal’s honor roll of stars for the 2023-24 calendar school year.
Spring baseball and softball teams are in the awards’ ondeck circle in June.
East Duplin’s girls’ soccer team went 4-0 against WRH and JK en route to a conference title and the program’s rst third-round appearance in the 2A playo s.
The Panthers landed six players on the rst team and pulled o a hat trick by netting all three individual marquee awards.
The Bulldogs, who had a remarkable season, placed three on the top squad, the Tigers two and Rebels one.
ED’s Anamarie Rodriguez is Ms. Soccer. Teammate Rilee Hatch earned the Heart of a Champion special award. Long-
time Panthers coach Joey Jones is the Coach of the Year. Read stories on the three marquee winners in this section. East Duplin went an area-best 17-6-2. Joining Rodriguez and Hatch on the rst team are teammates Katelyn Jones, Elleanna Rogers and Miranda Roblero; Bulldogs Gabby Debman, Bayleen Flores and Melissa Canales; plus Tigers Catherine Chirinos, Karla Diaz and Rebel Jisel Hernandez.
There are four freshmen, ve juniors and two seniors on the 11-player rst team, giving a spark of good things to come across the county.
Ms. Soccer: Anamarie Rodriguez, ED Heart of Champion: Rilee Kisler (See stories on page 8)
Gaby Debman, WRH, Fr., F
Debman found ways to score for Wallace-Rose Hill’s much-improved Bulldogs, who were 10-8 overall and 5-5 in the competitive ECC.
She scored 10 goals and had an assist.
“She was someone the defenses had to account for ev-
ery moment,” said WRH coach Jordan Boser. “She did the effort plays that most wouldn’t do that allowed her to get opportunities and score. Her skill and abilities improved through the year.”
Katelyn Jones, ED, Jr., F
After a solid sophomore campaign in which Jones scored eight goals, she pumped in 19 net- nders and dished out three assists. Yet it was her interplay with Rodriguez that sparked the Panthers’ o ense.
“I think she kind of blossomed by clicking so well with Anamarie,” Jones said. “They fed o each other. They were a
JK’s
Katherine Chirinos scored 31 goals.
ED soccer coach Joey Jones gave up coaching the Panthers’ boys in 2019 but can’t walk away from his “spring girls”
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin JournalBEULAVILLE — East Duplin soccer coach Joey Jones and his wife, Lisa, both retired from teaching in 2019.
Lisa was able to keep her distance from a school.
Joey gave up selling reworks during the summer and the job of coaching the boys’ soccer team.
But he held on to his “girls.”
Jones, who started coaching the boys in 2000 and the girls the following year, got his biggest reward as a coach recently as his Panthers’ girls advanced to the third round of the 2A playo s for their deepest run in
fun pair to watch.”
Katherine Chirinos, JK, Jr., F
Chirinos pumped in an area-high 31 goals, and the allECC rst-team performer could y higher next spring, according to Tigers’ coach Kenny Williams.
“With some added strength and continued improvement, she can be a legitimate Player of the Year candidate next year,” he said. “Katherine is very slippery with the ball and often faced double and sometimes triple coverages from our opponents.
FIRST TEAM, page 9
school history.
ED also captured its second East Central 2A Conference crown in three years and nished with a school-best 17-6-2 mark.
Jones is the Duplin Journal’s Coach of the Year, besting WRH’s Jordan Boser, who used an underclass roster to nish 10-8 for one of the best marks in Bulldog history.
COACH, page 9
The freshman striker slipped past teammate to garner the top award
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin JournalBEULAVILLE — The future arrived this spring in the form of a soccer player with ball skills, slick moves, agility and the speed to streak past defenders.
She is a freshman, though not James Kenan freshman Katherine Chirinos, who scored 31 goals, nor fellow freshman Gabby Debman, who led Wallace-Rose Hill in scoring with 10 goals.
East Duplin freshman Anamarie Rodriguez beat out those two rising stars and teammate Katelyn Jones to capture the Duplin Journal’s Ms. Soccer for 2024.
“She has all the skills and speed, really the entire package,” said Panthers coach Joey Jones, whose team went 17-6-2 behind the scoring of Rodriguez and her junior classmate. Rodriguez scored a team-high 20 goals, including two of the biggest this season. Jones had 19 and the chemistry between the pair was dynamite for East Duplin.
“Anamarie’s got a quick and accurate shot,” said the ED coach. “Those two clicked so well
together, and it made us a di erent team.”
Jones was a model of scoring consistency.
She punched four goals in ED’s opener against Community Christian and followed with hat tricks against James Kenan and South Lenoir. She then scored a goal in 10 other matches and added six assists.
Her OT score on April 9 in Beulaville lifted ED to a 2-1 win over ECC rival Southwest Onslow and assured the Panthers of at least a share of the league title.
Another OT goal 19 days later in Jacksonville gave ED a 3-2 victory and top seed from the ECC for the 2A playo s.
ED earned a No. 5 East Region seed in the postseason and zipped through Jordan-Matthews 5-2, then beat SWO 5-1 in the second round.
The Panthers lost to eventual state champ Seaforth (25-1-1) of Chatham County in the third round.
Yet before being eliminated in soccer, Rodriguez took rst in the 800 meters at the East Region track and eld meet, third in the 1,600 and ran a leg on ED’s rstplace 1,600 relay squad, plus its second-place 3,200 relay team.
That more than cemented the freshman’s star status in two sports.
East Duplin is 53-27-7 and has two ECC titles with Rilee
The East Duplin senior captain has been a steady four-year starter
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin JournalBEULAVILLE — Every program needs a player like Rilee Kisler.
While she won’t be listed among the county’s goal or assist leaders and will frequently be overlooked, she is a coach’s dream on the pitch.
She’ll play anywhere and do any task, including if she’s
needed to be a goalkeeper.
East Duplin’s four-year starter and co-captain didn’t score a goal this season, after ringing the cage twice as a freshman and junior and once during her sophomore campaign.
That’s meaningless since Kisler is involved in all other aspects of the game.
“She’s a great leader,” said East Duplin coach Joey Jones.
“She has good skills and a solid head on her shoulders.
“Her freshman year she played goalie. Not because we didn’t have another goalie, but because she was our best choice.
The soccer coaches at Wallace-Rose Hill, James Kenan and North Duplin have a “di erent” kind of successful seasons
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin JournalTEACHEY — Jordan Boser was thrilled with the season his Wallace-Rose Hill girls’ soccer team had this spring as he coached young, inexperienced players to one of its best seasons ever.
Kenny Williams was likewise happy about the progress at James Kenan, though he still would like another shot at the Bulldogs.
North Duplin, meanwhile, had a season to remember in terms of how it started and where it nished.
There was soccer growth at all four Duplin County schools, with the Panthers bringing in the most victories and still being the big shot on Duplin sod.
Longtime Panther coach Joey Jones, freshman striker Anamarie Rodriques and defender Rilee Kisler captured the Duplin Journal’s marquee awards.
But the three other schools made progress. ND was the lone school to miss the state playo s, and WRH and JK played competitively during rst-round road matches against much higher-seeded schools.
WRH and JK have young rosters, which are lled with potential, and their respective
coaches got their players to step up.
ED, of course, won the ECC for the second time in three seasons.
Bulldogs step into limelight
WRH nished 10-8 overall and 5-5 in ECC play. That’s an advancement from the previous two seasons — 3-14-3 in 2023 and 7-9-2 the previous season. Yet the best Bulldogs news is that coach Jordan Boser returns the bulk of his roster next season.
WRH started the season with three seniors, two juniors, four sophomores and nine freshmen.
The Bulldogs blitzed to wins in their rst three encounters before falling to ECC leaders ED and Southwest Onslow in competitive matches.
The Panthers had a four-
“I couldn’t have been happier with the way our team grew this season.”
Jordan Boser, Wallace-Rose Hill girls’ soccer coach
game winning streak and won three of its nal four matches of the season as a kicker into the summer.
“I couldn’t have been happier with the way our team grew this season,” said Boser, who is also a trusted defensive coach for the perennial state-power football team in the fall.
“We did things the right way and these kids worked so hard.”
The Bulldogs nished a respectable third in the ECC and were beaten by North Carolina
School of Science and Math 8-0 in the rst round of the postseason.
Tigers rebound from rough season
James Kenan lost three of its nal four outings after winning its rst four games of the campaign.
The Tigers (9-8-1) buried last season’s 2-12 mark in Williams’ rst season as coach. He previously coached the school’s girls’ basketball team.
“We made strides,” Williams said. “We’re young and learning to play the game together. We have 14 girls that are either freshmen or sophomores.”
Rebels unite after losing assistant coach
Things went haywire for North Duplin a few weeks be-
It’s where we needed her.”
East Duplin nished with a school-best 17-6-2 mark, winning its second ECC title in three years, and advancing to the third round of the 2A playo s.
The Panthers were 53-25-7 with Kisler in the lineup.
“We needed her on the eld and that was obvious, yet even more so when she got banged up,” Jones said. “Rilee’s given a lot to this program throughout her time here.
East Duplin lost one of its best workhorses when she accepted her diploma.
“She’s a hard one to see go,” Jones said, “because of how much she gave and her willingness to do what was asked for her.
East Duplin lost one of its best workhorses.
fore the start of the season when assistant girls’ and head boys’ coach John Ross unexpectedly died at the age of 51. He coached the Rebels for four seasons, and girls’ head coach Daniel Cates was depending on him to be in ND’s camp. Cates, an assistant football coach, has little soccer experience, but he knew the ND way: Work hard and play together as brother to brother, and in this case, sister to sister.
ND went 5-6 in Carolina 1A Conference play after a dismal beginning. Cates got math teacher Robert Pruitt to help him coach, and the Rebels began to learn about the game of soccer and game of life.
“Losing Coach Ross I feel brought the team together and made them realize that there’s a lot more to sports than just playing time,” Cates said. “Then Coach Pruitt comes in, and I immediately asked him to join on the spot because I knew he just knew how to coach.
“Sometimes that’s all it takes. And he was the fun, good cop, that we needed, and the girls absolutely loved him for it. He was just a great guy to be around.”
The two coaches turned the tides of sorrow into hope as ND’s 11 seniors started to blossom.
ND lost its rst seven games and then won ve of its nal seven.
The Rebels salvaged their season in spite of missing the playo s.
And when those seniors left the pitch for the nal time following a tough 2-1 loss to Neuse Charter, they had a better understanding of the role of how athletics fosters growth, education and life experience.
Miranda Roblero, ED, Jr., MF
Foes are often confused by the left foot action and moves of Roblero, who scored nine times and had eight assists.
“She would get it deep and cross it because of her speed and footwork,” Jones said.
Elleanna Rogers, ED, Sr., MF
Jones often paired Rogers with Roblero, especially the nal third of the season. That’s when the Panthers took ight to edge Southwest Onslow in the regular-season nale for the ECC crown and during a 5-0 skunking of the Stallions in the second round.
Melissa Canales, WRH, Fr., MF
While Canales didn’t ll up the stat sheet with impressive numbers (one goal, one assist) she more than passed the “eye test” on the sod.
“A steady player all year, she rarely came o the eld for a break and every game we knew exactly what we were going to get from her,” said WRH coach Boser.
Isla Miller, ED, Jr. GK
Miller gave the Panthers consistency in the goal.
“She had the best year, and that’s without looking at the numbers,” Jones said. “It’s what I saw on the eld. She was solid and dependable and improved throughout the year.”
Miller found out about the other side of the eld once — when she scored a goal. Otherwise, she was a goalie who was di cult to rattle.
Bayleen Flores, WRH, Fr., Def
Flores was a conductor of scoring for the Bulldogs, a much bigger impact than her ve goals and three assists might indicate.
“She was a calming presence on the attack and controlled the ball to get it into the right position for us to take a shot,” Boser said. “She allowed us to thrive o ensively.”
Karla Diaz, JK, Jr., MF
Diaz played multiple positions for a good part of the season while younger players were developing into their roles.
She scored nine goals and had 10 assists as a complement to Chirinos, who popped in 31 scores.
“Once we settled in with her on the frontline, she gave us added scoring punch,” Williams said.
COACH from page 7
Two more of his Duplin County coaching peers also had noteworthy campaigns, though not winning on the level of the Panthers.
Jones, who is universally known for his soft voice, kind words and knowledge of the game, which didn’t come naturally since soccer wasn’t played when he was in high school.
Jones settled into soccer after what he calls “bad attempts” to coach basketball.
“To be honest, I stunk as a coach,” Jones said with a laugh. “So when I got the o er to take (soccer teams) I jumped at it.”
Jones learned the basics of soccer while his children played in recreation leagues in Richlands.
His youngest daughter, Tammy Holleman, and son William, were both soccer crazy. His oldest daughter, Jessica, played volleyball and softball.
Jones learned more as a soccer coach at Harrells Christian
FIRST TEAM
Anamaire Rodriguez, ED, Fr., F
Gaby Debman, WRH, Fr., F
Katelyn Jones, ED, Jr., F
Melissa Canales, WRH, Fr., MF
Elleanna Rogers, ED, Sr., MF
Katherine Chirinos, JK, Jr., F
Rilee Kisler, ED, Sr. D/MF
Bayleen Flores, WRH, Fr., Def
Miranda Roblero, ED, Jr., MF
Karla Diaz, JK, Jr., MF
Jisel Hernandez, ND, Sr., F/MF
Ms. Soccer
Anamarie Rodriguez, East Duplin, Fr., F
Heart of Champion
Rilee Kisler, East Duplin, Sr. D/MF
Jisel Hernandez, ND, Sr., F/MF
Hernandez was an all-Carolina 1A Conference selection who helped the Rebels nish strongly with four wins in their nal six matches. The Rebels recovered from a tough start and lost a pair of one-goal heartbreakers to Neuse Charter (3-2) and Union (6-5).
SECOND TEAM
Bella Gaby, ED, Jr., D Jones talked her into playing soccer, and she brought an attitude to the eld as a key defender who could jump-start the o ense.
Daneilla Garcia, JK, Jr. CMF
She scored two early goals before moving to sweeper to add experience for JK’s all-freshman backline. Capable of playing nearly any position, Garcia’s soccer IQ, speed and ball-handling, and passing skills were key to the Tigers’ defense.
Arley Patino, JK, So., MF
She played various positions in support before becoming JK’s center-mid who was able to cover the action in the middle of the eld.
Academy and Jacksonville while he worked for UPS.
He had every intention of walking away from East Duplin completely, even though he was healthy enough and still driven to coach and work with prep athletes.
Alumnus Blake Lanier took over the boys’ soccer team, yet when Athletics Director Battle Holly asked Jones to coach the Panthers’ girls, he had little hesitation, saying at rst he would do it for “a year.”
That “year” had turned into three spring seasons.
“It’s been a great year and I told Battle I would come back for another year if they wanted me,” Jones said.
And the veteran coach will keep his position as bus driver on the road and wise coach after he opens the folding door for his players.
He’s a player’s coach, a parent’s coach, a great ambassador for the game and at least the second-most liked Panthers coach.
(Holley, the football coach that
SECOND TEAM
Bella Gaby, ED, Jr., D
Daneilla Garica, JK, Jr.
Arley Patino, JK, MF
Ellie Krieger, ED, Sr., MF
Valencya Stemmier, Jr., ND,
Isla Miller, ED, Jr., GK
Savannah Hill, ED, So., D
Keyla Diaz, JK, Fr., MF
Kaydance Drinkwater, ED, Jr., MF
Tresten Stemmier, ND, So., MF
Yulianna Chavarria, ED, Sr., MF/D
Coach of the Year
Joey Jones, East Duplin
Ellie Krieger, ED, Sr., D/MF
Krieger is one of those players that might not be appreciated until you watch her play the game.
Valencya Stemmier, Jr., ND, MF
Stemmier was consistent and upped her game late in the season.
Savannah Hill, ED, So., D Hill was a great one-on-one defender, which the Panthers needed in three matches against Southwest Onslow senior striker Taylor Carper (76 career goals).
Kaydance Drinkwater, ED, Jr., MF
The ED junior scored seven goals and had four assists.
Tresten Stemmier, ND, So., MF
Stemmier is fast and made good decisions with the ball and was one of ND’s top three players this spring.
Yulianna Chavarria, ED, Sr., MF Scored ve goals and had seven assists.
brought ED its rst state title, likely stands above Jones’ aura among fans).
But Jones is a veteran coach and now a former teacher who schedules tough competition while giving his players’ playing time.
ED had ve players — Anamarie Rodrigues, Kateyln Jones, Alleanna Rogers, Miranda Roblero and Kaydance Drinkwater — score seven or more goals this spring. Twelve others also punched in a score.
The enthusiasm for playing for the Panthers showed up early when 50 players tried out for the squad. ED is the lone East Central 2A Conference school with a junior varsity soccer program. Jones, who stresses defense, found it easy to push his players, especially since he was getting contributions from so many Panthers.
The emphasis on defense played out big during two overtime wins against Southwest Onslow to give ED a league title. The Panthers stopped Stallion hot-
CARONE
MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Zack Brown was the quarterback who scored a TD on a team that won a state championship and in elder on a 24-1 baseball team. Brown, who lettered in football three times and baseball four times, became a staple at East Duplin. Brown hit .377 the last two seasons with 57 hits, 31 walks, 11 doubles, three triples, a homer, 64 runs and 35 RBIs. He was a rst-team all-Duplin quarterback for the previous two seasons, and the Panthers were 25-3 with him under center.
shot scorer Taylor Carper (30 goals) in part because of Jones’ changing defenses.
Yet it all came together like a well-scripted movie when ED crushed SWO 5-1 in the second round of the 2A playo s.
In years past, the rst round was often the end of the Panthers’ season. And while in most seasons they had a good campaign, a push deep into the playo s was a missing piece of ED’s story. The Panthers opened the postseason with a 5-2 conquest of Jordan-Matthews. The season ended when Seaforth overpowered ED 7-0. It was a Hawks team that has three national players. Two combined for 112 goals. The third didn’t play in the spring, per instructions from her travel coaches.
It was that kind of experience and talent. The Hawks (25-1-1) beat Clinton in the East Region nal and Pine Lakes Preps for the 2A title.
Jones said he’s returning next spring and taking it “one year at
Pursuant to NCGS § 159-12, the Town of Magnolia Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed 20242025 Town Budget on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at the 6:00 P.M. at the regular meeting held in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Magnolia Town Hall, 110 E. Carroll Street, Magnolia, NC 28453. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for the Town Manager to
a time.”
Those around the Panthers’ campus are hoping he’s become the Walter Alston of soccer.
Alston, the manager of the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1954 to 1976, signed 23 consecutive one-year contracts, bringing seven pennants and three World Series titles to a metropolis known as the City of Angels, City of Flowers or City of Sunshine.
Jones bleeds Panther blue as Alston bled Dodger blue.
Over the course of more than two decades, Jones has become the torch bearer of light for soccer in Duplin County. He’s easily the longest-tenured coach in an area where the sport is on the rise after debuting in the county in the late 1990s.
The James Kenan boys won three consecutive ECC titles before Wallace-Rose Hill beat them in the season nale last fall, and then the Bulldogs played their way into the third round of the state playo s before falling 1-0 to No. 3 Jordan-Matthews.
present the proposed budget and solicit public comments. A copy of the proposed budget has been submitted to the Board and is available in the O ce of the Town Clerk to the Board for public inspection. The O ce of the Clerk to the Board is located at 110 E. Carroll Street, Magnolia, NC 28453 the phone number is (910) 289-3205.
NBA
Pelicans will use nal Lakers’ 1st-round pick from Davis trade in 2025
New Orleans
The New Orleans Pelicans have opted to wait until 2025 to use the last of the three rst round draft choices they received from the Los Angeles Lakers as part of the 2019 Anthony Davis trade. A person familiar with the decision con rmed it to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because no announcement has been made. The decision means the Lakers will retain their selection in the rstround of this year’s draft on June 26, when they are slated to pick 17th overall. It also leaves the Pelicans with only their own rst-round pick at No. 21 in this year’s draft.
French auction house postpones sale of Maradona’s trophy amid ownership controversy
The auction of a trophy awarded to the late Diego Maradona has been postponed amid a judicial investigation looking into the possible resale of stolen goods. A French court ruled the auction could go ahead but the lawyer for Maradona’s heirs lodged an appeal.
French auction house Aguttes said “this litigious climate and these uncertainties do not allow connoisseurs to approach this acquisition calmly, and our role as a trusted third party can no longer be properly ful lled.” A new date for the auction has yet to be set.
Rugby star and ALS campaigner Burrow dies at age 41 Leeds, England Rob Burrow, a former rugby star, widely praised for his fundraising campaigns after being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease in 2019, died at 41. Burrow spent his entire career with Leeds Rhinos English rugby league club and helped them win eight Super League titles. He retired in 2017 and two years later it was revealed Burrow had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. He went on to raise millions to help build a new care center for ALS patients.
One-time starting quarterback Buchner rejoining Notre Dame as walk-on receiver
South Bend, Ind. Former Alabama and Notre Dame quarterback Tyler Buchner is returning to the Fighting Irish team as a walk-on wide receiver. Buchner, who announced his decision Friday in an open letter to Notre Dame fans, was a starter for the Fighting Irish to begin the 2022 season before missing 10 games with an injury. He returned to lead the team to a Gator Bowl victory against South Carolina. Buchner followed o ensive coordinator Tommy Rees to Alabama and wound up starting the third game of last season against South Florida. Buchner returned to South Bend as a lacrosse player.
MADISON, Ill. — Austin
Cindric emerged as the surprise winner of the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday at World Wide Technology Raceway when teammate Ryan Blaney ran out of gas while leading on the nal lap.
Blaney, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion, appeared to be on his way to his rst win of the season after ghting o a challenge from Christopher Bell, who had his own car trouble in the closing laps.
Cindric, who had pitted just one lap after Blaney, took advantage of the situation and notched his second career victory. The other came in the 2022 Daytona 500.
“It was like my rst time all over again,” Cindric said. “It’s
been so long. Even just standing up on the roof of my car, I about fell over in Victory Lane.”
Denny Hamlin came in second, recording his sixth straight top-5 nish. Brad Keselowski was third, followed by Tyler Reddick and Joey Logano. Cindric said he didn’t nd out until he reached Victory Lane that Blaney had run out of gas — or that it might have been an issue for him.
“Probably the two best cars at the end of that race both had an issue, and the third-place car wins the race. That’s the way I see it,” Cindric said. “I mean, it’s not like I went out there and I took the lead away but we were in position, and this is one of our best-executed races so far this year with probably our best speed.”
The three Penske cars — Cindric, Blaney and Logano — did
not pit in the break between the second and third stages, and that put them in position to go for Team Penske’s rst win of the year. “It’s been miserable to be in our shop here lately. We expect to win,” said Logano, a two-time series champion who entered the race 17th in points. “We got used to winning and when you’re ghting for 20th, it’s quite the kick in the you-know-what.”
Blaney and Bell dueled for the lead for several laps before Bell — just after nally squeezing ahead of Blaney brie y — let up and reported motor issues to his crew. Bell wound up seventh, getting a push by teammate Martin Truex Jr. on the straightaways in the nal laps.
“I have no idea what happened — some sort of motor issue — and I’m surprised that it made it to the end,” Bell said. “So
glad that we were able to salvage something out of it.
“But you don’t get race cars like that very often. And whenever you do, you need to take advantage of them.
Blaney settled for 24th, coasting around as the last nisher on the lead lap.
“Just one lap short,” Blaney said. “Really happy with our showing today, just I don’t know what I’ve got to do to get some luck on our side.”
Cindric’s crew chief, Brian Wilson, said the Penske team coordinated during the week on the decision to keep all three cars out at the start of Stage 3, but they didn’t share strategy on the nal pit stop as they were competing for the win.
“I would have preferred to pit the same lap as him,” Wilson said. “They did a great job of disguising that.”
The former Tar Heels quarterback changed teams in the o season
By Tim Booth The Associated PressRENTON, Wash. — Between the change in the coaching sta and a high draft pick, quarterback Sam Howell was pretty certain after last season ended, he’d no longer be in Washington even if he spent the entire year as the Commanders starting quarterback.
But with a change in scenery came the realization that Howell would have to accept the idea of taking on a backup role — which appears to be the situation he faces now as a member of the Seattle Seahawks.
Howell said he was excited by the chance to join Seattle even if it meant coming to a team with an established starter already in place with Geno Smith.
“In this league to be able to play, you’ve got to compete and that’s what I’m willing to do, no matter what the situation is, no matter who the starter is. If I’m the starter, I’m coming to compete every single day,” Howell said. “Geno has been great. I’ve learned a lot from Geno and he’s a great player. I have a lot of respect for him and everything he’s been through in his career.” In just two seasons, Howell’s
been through a lot himself. He went from being a 2022 fthround pick of the Commanders out of UNC who appeared in one game as a rookie to a starter who led the league in attempts, interceptions and sacks in just his second season.
But within that season also included some highlight moments that showed Howell has the talent to be a starter in the league. And one of his best games came against the Seahawks when he threw for 312 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in a 29-26 loss.
“We should have won,” Howell said.
Now given some time, Howell said he’s re ected on what he learned and what he could have done di erently to cut down on some of the mistakes.
Howell threw 21 interceptions and was sacked 65 times behind an o ensive line that was ravaged by injuries and poor play.
“I think I could play some smarter ball. I think there were times where we were down big in some games, I was a little too aggressive just trying to make something happen trying to get us back in the game,” Howell said. “The turnovers are just way too high for what I wanted and what the team needed. I think that’s de nitely something I can take from last year.”
Howell’s trade to Seattle also included some swapping of draft
picks, but the con dence the Seahawks have in what Howell can be in the short term was displayed a little more than a month ago. While Seattle wasn’t in the running to pick one of the elite QBs that dominated the beginning of the rst round of the draft, the Seahawks still had plenty of chances to grab a de-
TAKE NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#2024E000193
velopmental quarterback in the later rounds of the draft.
But they didn’t, opting to go with just two quarterbacks for now — Smith and Howell.
“I think he’s representative of where we are as a football team,” Seattle coach Mike Macdonald said of Howell. “I think Sam has improved every time we’ve come out here and it’s really exciting.”
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned GAIL D. PADRICK, having quali ed on the 13TH day of MAY, 2024, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ROSE LEE DAVIS aka ROSE BROWN DAVIS aka ROSE LEE BROWN DAVIS, deceased, of Duplin County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13TH Day of AUGUST, 2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 15TH Day of MAY, 2024.
GAIL D. PADRICK, EXECTOR 290 ARTHUR SLOAN RD. CHINQUAPIN, NC 28521 Run dates: M16,23,30,J6p
July 10, 1948 – May 22, 2024 (age 75)
MAGNOLIA — Mrs. Barbara Jean Southerland Raines, age 75, of Magnolia passed away on May 22 at The Magnolia Assisted Living Center in Clinton.
A memorial service was held on May 28 at Rose Hill Funeral Home, 472 Wells Town Road in Rose Hill.
Left to cherish her precious memories: her children, Harry T. Raines, II (Charletta) of Fayetteville, and Trumanda Raines of Jacksonville; two brothers, Thomas Southerland and Jackie Southerland (Ethel), both of Magnolia; three sisters, Lorraine Raines of Fort Washington, Maryland, Diane Raines (Perry) and Margaret Southerland, both of Magnolia; four grandchildren, Quenton Joseph Raines of Magnolia, Juwann Randall and Justin Avery, both of Hope Mills, and Sakia N’cole Cooper of Jacksonville; three special grandchildren, Ka’Niyuh Pegues, Tierra Carney and Tyre Carney, all of Magnolia; special daughter, Dishonda M. Pegues (Joshua) of Magnolia; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss her dearly.
Feb. 2, 1957 – May 27, 2024 (age 67)
MAGNOLIA — Elbert Lee Baker, 67, passed away May 27, 2024 at Kenansville Health and Rehabilitation in Kenansville. Mr. Baker was born Feb. 2, 1957 in Lenoir County to the late Elbert Baker and Mildred Lee Grady Baker.
Mr. Baker is survived by daughter, Patricia Wright and husband, Chris; son, Joseph L. Baker; grandson, Brandon Du and wife, Jamie; two great-grandchildren, Adelaide and Thomas Du ; and many cousins and friends.
Arrangements were incomplete as of press time.
Dec. 28, 1982 – May 29, 2024 (age 41)
MAGNOLIA — Mr. Fortino Hernandez Jr., 41, of Magnolia passed away on May 29 at Lower Cape Fear Hospice in Wilmington.
A visitation was held on June 1 at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel, 472 Wells Town Road in Rose Hill. Burial took place on June 2 at the Hernandez Family Cemetery, 2613 S. 903 Hwy in Magnolia. Left to cherish his precious memories: parents, Maria Silvia Mejia and Fortino Hernandez, Sr. of Magnolia; four brothers, Hilario (Erika), Bertin and Rogelio Hernandez, all of Magnolia, and Miguel Hernandez (Carmen) of Oklahoma; sister, Eunice Hernandez of Warsaw; grandmother, Jose na Zamora of Guerrero, Mexico; a host of cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.
Feb. 8, 1935 – May 25, 2024 (age 89)
TEACHEY — Mr. John Clarence Coston Jr., 89, of Teachey passed away on May 25 at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.
A viewing was held on June 3 at New Christian Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 2283 S NC 11 Hwy in Rose Hill, immediately followed by the funeral service. The interment took place at Duplin Memorial Gardens, Hwy 117 in Teachey. Left to cherish his precious memories: wife, Jean Coston; children, Je rey A. Coston (Michele), Ray A. Coston (Joyce), John Curtis Coston (Lovette), Helena D. Coston and Irvin D. Coston (Latetia); siblings, Marie Treadwell, Kenneth Coston, Jessie Reaves (Morris), Edward Coston (Shirley), Eugene Coston and Edna Byrd (Dr. Frank); numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.
Dec. 12, 1960 – May 26, 2024 (age 63)
ROSE HILL — Mrs. Lumichia McMillan Graham, age 63, of Rose Hill passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024 at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville.
A viewing was held on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel, 472 Wells Town Road in Rose Hill, followed by the service. Burial followed at Boney/Graham Cemetery in Rose Hill.
Left to cherish her precious memories: husband, Marvin Graham; daughter, Elisha “Chell” McMillan of Franklinton; stepson, Antonio Sutton of Atlanta, Georgia; brothers, Artis McMillan of Teachey, and Travis E. McMillan (Arlesha) of Rose Hill; sisters: Marjorie Kornegay (Arthur) of Wallace, Wanda Farrior (Donald) of Kenansville, and Cathy McMillan of Wallace; granddaughter, Trinity Ennis; step-grandsons: DeAndre’ and Kahaden Sutton; one brother-in-law, two sisters-inlaw; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss her dearly.
Marie Pearce
July 18, 1934 – May 31, 2024 (age 89)
Lottie Marie Pearce, 89, passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024 in Onslow Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville. Graveside service was on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at Pearce/ Pierce/ Gurganus Cemetery in Richlands.
Suriviors include sister, Ellen Pearce Cook of Jacksonville.
April 6, 1958 – May 26, 2024 (age 66)
KENANSVILLE — Cynthia “Cindy” Bostic Sutton, 66, passed away on May 26, 2024 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington. Cindy was born April 6, 1958 in Duplin County to the late Cecil Bostic and Doris Byrd Bostic Sawyer. Cindy was a blessing to numerous farmers and equipment operators across the state of NC and beyond. She took great pride and was passionate about her job, from being able to locate any part needed for the job to the ability to tell you most any part number from memory. She was also a loving, devoted mother to her two children and grandmother to her four grandchildren. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 30, 2024 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw, Inc. A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel and burial will conclude the service in Devotional Gardens. Cindy is survived by son, Matthew Sutton and wife, Renee of Rose Hill; daughter, Ashley Sutton of Kenansville; grandchildren, Cole and Savannah Sutton, Abbygale Bradshaw, and Austin Vandiford; nieces and nephew, Amie Bostic, Melissa Bostic, Nikki Sutton, and Brady Smith; former brother-in-law, Randy Sutton, and numerous lifelong friends.
In addition to her parents, Cindy was preceded in death by brother, Robert Allen Bostic. In lieu of owers, memorial donation may be made toward the funeral expenses at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw, Inc., P. O. Box 336, Warsaw, NC 28398.
Jan. 25, 1946 – May 28, 2024 (age 78)
March 6, 1954 – May 27, 2024 (age 70)
WARSAW — Ivey Russell Eason, 70, of Warsaw, passed away Monday, May 27, 2024 at his home. Russell was born March 6, 1954 in Sampson County to the late Ivey Eason and Ena Mae Foster Eason. A service will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. Times of services are still being nalized at this time and will be announced when decided.
Russell is survived by his wife, Crystal Eason; son, Dail Eason and wife, Meridith Brown Eason; stepson, Shawn Michael Brown; stepdaughter, Michelle Catherin Brown; and two grandchildren, Fallon Lanier and Willow Brown Eason.
Dec. 1, 1954 – May 30, 2024 (age 69)
Roy Alan Gilbert, 69, of Rose Hill, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from Wallace Rehab and HealthCare Center.
He was born Dec. 1, 1954 in Pender County; the son of the late Roy and Bertie Cavenaugh Gilbert. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Dean Gilbert and nephew, Shane Cavenaugh.
Surviving is his brother, Willima Earl “Willie” Gilbert of Asheville and sisters, Shirley Wheeler of Forrest City, and Mary Lou Cavenaugh and husband Butch of Wallace; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Roy Alan dearly.
Visitation
Chapel MB Church Cemetery. Born on March 15, 1948 to the late Clara and Carl Dunn, Leon possessed a rare blend of humor, charm and intelligence that captivated all who crossed his path. He e ortlessly charmed his way into the hearts of everyone he met with his quick wit and infectious laughter, leaving behind a trail of smiles wherever he went. A true storyteller, Leon had a knack for spinning tales that kept us all enthralled. His knack for turning even the simplest moments into uproarious anecdotes made gatherings with him unforgettable, a testament to his unique gift for bringing joy to others. For decades, Leon and his baby brother Robert, trailblazed the Food Truck market, bringing freshly grown watermelons, vegetables and, “country” meat from North
Carolina to Brooklyn New York. The Dunn brothers were pioneers of this venture and successfully dominated the market. Today, produce and meat trucks are seen throughout the tri-state area and beyond. Before his untimely death, Leon continued his entrepreneurial legacy with real estate investments and a used car business. Though Leon may no longer walk among us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves to mourn: Darin Dunn, Eric Dunn and Jermaine Dunn (Sons from marriage to Cora Dunn); sister, Clara Lillie Caver; brother, Robert Earl Dunn; brother-in-law, Charlie Caver; signi cant other, Barbara Barden; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Leon was also a father and grandfather gure to Andrea Hill and Lanana Hill.
Dennis Wayne Kornegay, 78, lifelong resident of the Beautancus community near Mount Olive, passed away at home on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. He had been employed with the N.C. Department of Transportation as an equipment operator with its road maintenance division.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Elaine Stroud Kornegay, of the home; a daughter and son-in-law, Tina K. and Bruce Andrews of Mount Olive; a granddaughter, MacKenzie Andrews of Mount Olive; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac Franklin Kornegay and Virgina McArthur Kornegay; two sisters, Geraldine K. Harvell and Jane K. Mandeville; and three brothers, Isaac “Bubba” Kornegay, Charlie Mac Kornegay, and Scott Kornegay. The Kornegay family gathered for visitation Saturday, June 1, at Tyndall Funeral Home with funeral services following. Burial was in Maplewood in Mount Olive.
Alan was a simple man who loved his family with all his heart. He enjoyed cat shing, camping and motorcycles. With a witty personality, Alan loved to prank others and was always joking around with those he loved. He and his two brothers were always into something and they were known as the “Dalton Gang.” Alan never liked shoes and you would always see him barefooted. He was an avid fan of Dolly Parton and loved to hear her sing and talk. Alan will surely be missed but he will never be forgotten. Graveside funeral service was held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at Cavenaugh Cemetery, NC Highway 41 S., Wallace.
Local groups and authorities come together in preparation for an active hurricane season
By Ena Sellers Duplin JournalWITH HURRICANE sea-
son in full swing through Nov. 30 and an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane activity predicted by NOAA National Weather Service, it is essential for everyone to be prepared.
According to NOAA, this year we could see a range of 17-25 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher, with four to seven developing into major hurricanes.
To help Duplin County residents stay ahead of potential natural disasters and have a plan in place, the Disaster Recovery Group of Duplin County is hosting a Disaster Preparedness Expo on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Charity Mission Center in Rose Hill.
The event will feature informational resources, vendors, door prizes and giveaways.
Below we have compiled a few tips from local and national resources to help you get ready.
Before a hurricane
Determine whether it is safe to shelter in place or if you live in a high-risk location by entering your address on the following website: ncdps.gov/our-organization/ emergency-management/ emergency-preparedness/ know-your-zone.
County residents can signup for the Hyper Reach Alert text system to receive weather information and noti cation of shelter locations and opening times. Visit dchealth.duplincountync.com/preparedness/ and click on the link to sign up for Hyper Reach.
Download the Red Cross Emergency app for weather alerts, Red Cross shelter locations and safety tips in various languages.
• Prepare an emergency kit
85%
Chance of an above-normal hurricane activity predicted by NOAA
that includes two weeks of food, water and medicine supplies for each family member and pets. Pack important documents, medicine and batteries in a waterproof container. Visit redcross.org for an inclusive list of what items to include.
• If you are in a ood prone area, designate a location on higher ground that you can move to before ood waters reach you. Plan where you will go if the need to evacuate should arise, make sure to add extra preparation time if you or a loved one will need special transportation or help leaving the home. If you have pets, include them in your evacuation plans. Have a list of pet-friendly hotels outside the area, boarding facilities or friends that could care for your pets in case of an emergency. Also to make sure your pets are wearing a collar with up-to-date identi cation. Check with the shelters to nd out which ones accept pets.
• If local authorities advise you to evacuate, do so right away and follow evacuation routes. Do not try to take shortcuts, the route may be ooded or blocked by debris. Never walk, swim, or try to drive through oodwater.
The Duplin County Health Department preparedness website recommends checking with Emergency Management about shelters opening for hurricane, ooding or other severe weather by calling 910-2962160. Duplin County uses
NCDTS KNOW
Visit ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/emergency-preparedness/know-yourzone and enter your address to determine whether it is safe to shelter in place or if you live in high-risk area. The above map shows evacuation zones A and B in Duplin County.
the local schools as shelters and they usually open 1224 hours before predicted landfall.
• Find evacuation routes using ncdot.gov/travel-maps/ maps/Pages/evacuation-routes.aspx.
After a hurricane
If you evacuated, do not return home until o cials say it is safe.
• Remember that damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed wires should be avoided — they can electrocute you. Gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices should never be used inside — or outside near an open window. Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, but it can kill quickly. The Red Cross recommends getting fresh air right away if you start to feel sick, dizzy or weak.
Identi cation for each family member
Contact information for family/friends
7-day supply of medicine in the original bottle if possible
Written list of all medications with doctor’s name and phone number
• Eye glasses, hearing aids, dentures
• Children’s diapers and wipes
• Special dietary foods, baby food, formula
Clothing for 3-7 days
Pillow/blankets
Daily toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, washcloth, feminine hygiene products)
Cell phone with charger
Flashlight and batteries
• Books, games, cards
Source: Duplin County Health Department Visit dchealth.duplincountync.com/preparedness/ for the complete list of recommendations of what to bring and what not to bring to a shelter.
