Duplin Journal Vol. 8, Issue 40

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 40 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2023

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

County Commissioners approve purchase of two Public Transportation vans Kenansville The Board of County Commissioners approved a request to purchase two used vans for the Public Transportation Department on Monday, Nov. 20 during the Board of County Commissioners bimonthly meeting in Kenansville.

The amount approved for the purchase is $97,000, with monies from the fund balance.

“Our ability to be able to reorder replacement vans for those that have had their useful life has been a problem,” explained Angel Venecia, Public Transportation Department director to the board, adding that out of the 14 vans the transportation department has, a handful will soon hit 300,000 miles.

“The repairs that we are facing to the ones that are beginning to break down are becoming more extensive and at this rate if we lose any more vehicles, we are going to have to begin cutting services… I feel like one or two vehicles at this rate would give us the ability to continue to provide the same level of service that we currently have.”

Venecia added that once they get their replacement vehicles, they may be able to expand on the services they are currently offering.

DJS

Land clearing trucks stand tall at the AirPark site where road construction is in progress.

AirPark amidst capital investment boom Clearing and grubbing are underway as part of an economic development master plan at the Airpark

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Adjacent to Duplin County Regional Airport’s 6,000-foot runway is the AirPark-Duplin County Business and Industry Center, now in the very beginning stages of a big development poised to change the county’s economic landscape.

“It is a very exciting time in Duplin County,” said Scotty Summerlin, Economic Development Commission executive director, as he speaks about the land clearing and grubbing going on at the AirPark.

The cleared area is part of a master plan that encompass-

es 15 acres out of 119 owned by the county and available for development. The site goes from Best Road to Airport Road and incorporates a lot that will be used for a shell building and the corridors for roads, water, and wastewater.

“There’s no vertical construction going on right now,” explained Summerlin. “The road design is practically done, so when we get water and wastewater plans finalized, we are going to go to bid for the water, the wastewater and road construction.”

The AirPark will be home to NC Forestry Service Region One Headquarters, which according to Summerlin will be completed in late 2025.

As for the master plan, Summerlin shared that they have identified some larger tracks See AIRPARK, page 6

UMO holds dedication ceremony for new baseball training facility

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTY SUMMERLIN

An aerial view of the 15 acres being cleared at the AirPark.

The area shown incorporates the lot for a shell building and the corridors for the new roads, water, and wastewater.

Warsaw firefighters battle Thanksgiving Day blaze

Mount Olive The University of Mount Olive dedicated its new baseball training facility in honor of Carl Lancaster on Saturday, Nov. 18. Lancaster joined Mount Olive College as Head Baseball Coach in 1987. When he retired in 2018, after 31 seasons at the helm of the program, Lancaster had amassed numerous honors and achievements. Below are a few of his major accolades and the reason the University has chosen to honor his legacy with the naming of this facility.

ENA SELLERS | DUPLIN JOURNAL

By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin Journal

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN JOHNSON

Warsaw firefighters had their Thanksgiving meals disrupted on Thursday, Nov. 23, when a structure fire broke out on Grove Creek Avenue.

WARSAW — Like many of us, Warsaw’s volunteer firefighters were just sitting down to enjoy the Thanksgiving meal with their families when the call came in — a structure fire in the Grove Creek neighborhood off NC Highway 24 on the edge of town.

“Our members were just sitting down with their families like everyone else, and got up

and went,” said Warsaw Fire Chief John Blackmore. “We had 25-plus that responded, even though it was Thanksgiving Day. It was a really good turnout.”

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but Blackmore said that when firefighters arrived on the scene, there was “heavy fire” coming from the back of the residence on the first floor. The two-story home saw See FIREFIGHTERS, page 6

UMO

Jail construction amendment may “This redesign and will provide save up to $2.5M, county manager says amendment significant cost savings to Board approves a redesign to accommodate a law enforcement center west of the planned facility

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — An amendment to modify construction documents for the new Duplin County Detention Center was approved on Monday, Nov. 20, during the Board of County Commissioners bimonthly meeting in Kenansville.

“This redesign and amendment will provide significant cost savings to the county in the future, maybe up to $2.5 million worth of savings,” said County

Manager Bryan Miller, adding that the architects have agreed to waive their contractual 5% additional markup for their involvement and are presenting the amendment as a pass-through cost only.

The $24,000 services agreement with Moseley Architects is for a redesign that will accommodate a future Law Enforcement Center west of the planned facility without the demolition of the planned staff parking lot, which will need to occupy a different location.

During a county commissioners meeting held on July 17, 2023, the dire need for a larger detention facility was discussed in great detail along with potential risks of operating a facility that

is “not suitable for employees or inmates.” It was also discussed that the detention facility cannot accommodate the needs of the county with a capacity for less than 100 people. A constant overflow of inmates who are having to be housed in other jails due to the lack of capacity remains a problem in Duplin County, costing taxpayer dollars every year that goes by without an adequate facility. At the end of the meeting everyone agreed that there is a pressing need for a bigger jail, however there was no decision whether they would construct a 236-bed or a 156-bed facility. The cost to build the three-pod facility was estimated at $43 million, See JAIL, page 2

the county in the future, maybe up to $2.5 million worth of savings.”

County Manager Bryan Miller

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Mattie Elizabeth “Liz” Batts, of Beulaville, was honored for her commitment, devotion, and service to the seniors of Duplin County on Monday, Nov. 20 during the Board of County Commissioners bimonthly meeting in Kenansville.

Batts, who retired earlier this year, has served with the Senior Services Department

for three decades. She started her career with the department in 1993 as a secretary and later became the Seniors Health Insurance Information Program coordinator for the county.

“For 30 years, Liz’s ability to empathize with seniors was remarkable,” said Melisa Brown, Senior Services Director, as she spoke about Batts’ service, praising her commitment to assisting seniors and disabled individuals, and pre-

senting her with a retirement plaque. “She never wavered.

Even before she retired, she signed up as a volunteer willing to serve on the Aging Advisory Committee and serve with special events. The staff, and I miss her and the home cooked meals she would provide for us daily.”

Batts actively volunteers with Senior Services and serves in the community alongside her husband, Pastor Malcolm Batts.

abby@northstatejournal.com

Michael Jaenicke, Sports Editor michael@northstatejournal.com

David Guy, Advertising Manager

CONTACT US ENA SELLERS | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Mattie Elizabeth Batts and her husband Malcolm Batts, stand for a photo in front of Duplin County Commissioners Jessie Dowe, Justin Edwards, Dexter Edwards, Wayne Branch and Elwood Garner, after receiving her retirement plaque on Monday, Nov. 20 during the Duplin County Commissioners meeting in Kenansville.

To submit a news tip or correction: 919-663-3232

CRIME LOG Nov. 21

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Duplin Journal

x Nehemiah Williams, 20, he was arrested on an existing warrant at the 100 block of Walter Robinson Lane in Rose Hill. His bond was set at $5,000. x Timothy James Cerullo, 60, was arrested on multiple drug charges. His bond was set at $100,000. x Jaquarius Tywan Pickett was charged with possession firearm by felon, attempted common law robbery, felony conspiracy, communicating threats and multiple drug charges. He was arrested in Duplin County. His bond was set at $50,000.

Nov. 22 x Nikki Garner, 34, was arrested

JAIL from page 1 and the smaller two-pod option was estimated at $34 million.

“I’m looking forward to working with County Commissioners and the county manager, it does look like the jail project is moving forward,” Sheriff Stratton Stokes told the Duplin Journal, adding that he hopes they will get a definitive answer soon on exactly what size facility they are going to build.

Sheriff Stokes shared that the parking lot has been a topic of conversation for the past three or four months. “If they build the jail and the Sheriff’s Office, the staff parking lot would be beside the Sheriff’s Office. At one time when they were looking at just building the jail, they were looking at putting the staff parking lot right beside the jail, which would be the

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Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County: NOV. 30 x James Sprunt Community College will host a Small Business Expo on Thursday, Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, call 910-659-6008.

DEC. 4

dguy@northstatejournal.com

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x Stuff the Cruiser is back. The Warsaw Police Department will be collecting toys for local children ages 3-12. Please bring your unwrapped toys to 128 W. Bay St. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or to 121 S. Front St., Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Abby Cavenaugh, Features/Business Editor

Get in touch

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Beulaville resident honored for DUPLIN 30 years of service to community CALENDAR

Ena Sellers, News Editor

For a vacation hold or to report a delivery problem: 919-663-3232

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footprint of the Sheriff’s Office if it ever expanded and that’s one issue we had because we didn’t want to put a parking lot down for them to destroy it later on.”

“If the Sheriff’s Office is built, it is going to change the design of the jail a little bit; if it’s not hopefully it’ll be a bigger jail – something that we need,” said Sheriff Stokes, adding that the county commissioners have not relayed any information about which way they are deciding to go at this time.

Sheriff Stokes stated he maintains his position that the county needs a 236-bed facility.

“We need to build something that’s adequate for the county and that will last us, and a 150bed facility would be at capacity as soon as it was open, so I’m completely against that.”

Last year, Duplin County was

on an existing warrant In the 100 block of Duplin Street in Kenansville. Her bond was set at $353.

Nov. 23 x Alexis Nijah Leonard, 23, was charged for assaulting another inmate in Kenansville. x Jamie Van Scott, 44, was arrested in Duplin County on an existing warrant. His bond was set at $2,073. x Sindy Elena Garcia, 27, was arrested in Duplin County on a simple assault charge. Her bond was set at $500. x Terry Leon Highsmith, 51, was arrested in Duplin County for two counts of simple assault and injury to personal property.

“We need to build something that’s adequate for the county and that will last us, and a 150-bed facility would be at capacity as soon as it was open, so I’m completely against that.”

Sheriff Stratton Stokes awarded $21.3 million from the State Capital Infrastructure Fund to help build the new jail.

On Sept. 5, the Board approved a contract with First Tryon advisors to start the process for obtaining Limited Obligation

x Thomas Pearson, 30, was arrested in Duplin County on two counts of assault on a female. His bond was set at $5,000. x Stacey Waller Garris, 48, was arrested in Duplin County for communicating threats.

Nov. 25 x Jack Hernandez, 35, was arrested in Duplin County for resisting a public officer and possessing drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $8,000.

Nov. 26 x Tanorm Malik Wilson, 28, was arrested in Duplin County on a simple assault charge. His bond was set at $1,000.

x The Duplin County Board of County Commissioners meets the first and third Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 224 Seminary St., Kenansville. For more information, call 910-2937814. x The Beulaville town board meets the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at 508 East Main St., Beulaville.

For more information, call 910-298-4647. x The Calypso town board meets the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m., at 103 West Trade St., Calypso. For more information, call 919658-9221. x Sue Baker House, a local author, will be at the Beulaville Library on Monday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 910-2962117.

DEC. 5 x The Kenansville town board will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday.

Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m., at 141 Routledge Rd., Kenansville.

For more information, call 910-296-0369.

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Bonds to help finance the new Detention facility. Most recently, $11 million in appropriations from the North Carolina state budget were allocated for public safety facilities including planning and construction of the new detention center, which puts the county a step ahead with more than $32 million in funding from the state.

“As for which way we’re going with the extra $11 million, it’s just going to depend on the county commissioners and how they want to move forward,” said Sheriff Stokes. “They still have not decided on what size jail to build, and that is just dependent on if we are just going to do a jail or if they are going to try to do a jail and a Sheriff’s Office.

The next Board of County Commissioners meeting will be on Monday, Dec 4.

x The Faison town board meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., at 110 Northeast Center St., Faison.

For more information, call 910-285-7564.

DEC. 8 x The Masonic Lodge is having a Barbecue Chicken fundraiser on Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. For more information, call 910-284-3411.

DEC. 9 x The North Duplin FFA will host a Chili Cook off on Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at North Duplin Jr/Sr High School located at 1388 W. NC 403 Highway in Mount Olive. There will be prizes for the top three and people’s choice winners. For more information, call 910-2602285.

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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

DAR

COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON

Hard work, provident living: Appreciating the blessings we take for granted

If this resurgence of promoting freedom and liberty and putting America first fails, a strong dose of poverty may be required to turn America back to promoting work, industry, thrift, self-reliance and long term religious freedom.

ANOTHER THANKSGIVING now resides in the past.

Dare we hope to practice permanent thankfulness in the temporary present?

Seventy-two years ago, I heard an old farmer tell one of my uncles, “You and me won’t live long enough to see the day when a man will be willing to trade one potato for one diamond; if it is a pretty big diamond.” But your grandchildren may see such a day.

Another old, seasoned farmer rolled his chew of “BeechNut tobacco” from one side of his mouth to the other and replied, “won’t be nobody from round here; ain’t nobody round here got no diamond.”

That discussion occurred in Mrs. Eva James’ store just down the road from Friendship United Methodist Church between men who had farming “in their blood.” During the summer months back then, Granny would send me to Mrs. Eva’s store with 10 cent and a used burlap bag to get a small block of ice to be chipped-up for “iced tea” at dinner time.

Mrs. Eva was an expert with an ice pick. She would go to the outside ice house, rake back the saw-dust from a huge block of ice and chip off 10-cent worth of ice.

She had one of the first televisions in the neighborhood and sometimes she would tell me to “tell Leona to come watch The Edge of Night with me.” After the famous episode when Sarah, a leading character died, some in the community signed and mailed a sympathy card (Yes, they did)!

There are some who will read and relate well to what I have written so far. To them these memories are becoming more precious as ‘ol man time rolls on.

They have always known where food comes from.

Maybe we should all try observing Thanksgiving every day for a while.

For various reasons these stories above will have very little meaning to younger generations. They don’t remember how diligent those farmers lived the principles of hard work and provident living to produce the food and fiber

necessary for us to become and remain a free nation.

Many folks today think that food comes from the grocery store.

We are the beneficiaries of hard working farm families— then and now—for their efforts under difficult conditions.

Many would-be advice givers about America’s problems and shortfalls have never been hungry or had blistered hands from hard work.

Recently there has been a resurgence of well-founded national patriotism which respects and promotes the exceptionalism possessed by past great men and women.

They, despite their weaknesses, imperfections and sins helped establish America as a Christian nation with the noble motto of “In God We Trust.”

So confident were they in Christian principles that they established a Constitutional Republic that welcomed all religious faiths. They realized that our rights come from God not government.

They did not prohibit those in government from living and making decisions based on their religious faith. Neal A. Maxwell stated, “Acting on religious beliefs does not constitute establishing a religion.”

If this resurgence of promoting freedom and liberty and putting America first fails, a strong dose of poverty may be required to turn America back to promoting work, industry, thrift, self-reliance and long term religious freedom.

My uncle Cecil now has the great grandchildren mentioned by the old farmer in 1952. What will they and we choose? Will we choose Secularism or the God given freedom and liberty to be thankful for our great heritage?

We, the people must remember to be thankful or we may have to trade one diamond for one potato--unless, “ain’t nobody round here got no potato.”

Jimmy Dixon (R-NC04) represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.

COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN

Transitions: a time for looking forward

A major transition can be challenging, of course, but it can also be exciting and promising. My return to writing ‘On Faith’ is the result of the transition to a new weekly newspaper in our community.

MY WIFE AND I RECENTLY WORSHIPPED at the Pollocksville Presbyterian Church as the mother of a good friend celebrated her 101st birthday. She was honored at a luncheon where she delivered a delightful speech. Three days later her son texted that she had died.

Once again we were back in the sanctuary for her memorial service.

In his sermon, the pastor said, “Six days ago she talked with her family and friends. Three days later she was talking with Jesus. What a transition!” Transition — “the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.” In a week’s time, I heard the word “transition” numerous times in a variety of settings. The host of the NPR Marketplace podcast reported on the transition of students from high school to college, the transition from gas powered to electric vehicles, worker protections during the transition to clean energy, and programs that make it easier for veterans to transition to civilian jobs. A few weeks ago my wife

and I rode through her hometown of Riegelwood and stopped at the house where she grew up. The new owners graciously let us walk through the house which is undergoing a major transition and renovation. We both commented that the house didn’t seem as big as we remembered. Then there is the great transition in my life as I navigate what it means to be retired after forty years of ordained ministry, the last twenty-five of which were as pastor of the Wallace Presbyterian Church. As part of my retirement planning, I made use of resources provided by the Presbyterian Church for members preparing to transition into retirement. When I announced my retirement in January, many people said, “What are we going to do?

We’re never going to be able to replace you. There will never be another Dr. Phil!” My answer was, “You’re going to keep sharing the gospel and serving Jesus Christ, just as the members of this congregation have done since 1884. And, no, the next pastor will not be Dr. Phil. That’s OK, that’s a

good thing.” The congregation has the opportunity to find out who they are and what God is calling them to do. A major transition can be challenging, of course, but it can also be exciting and promising. My return to writing a faith-based column is the result of the transition to a new weekly newspaper in our community. In his editorial two weeks ago, Jim Sills wrote, “While it is true that media has changed, as have many businesses in our society, it is also true that the need for quality local news coverage has never been higher.”

When Jim asked me to be part of the new adventure called Duplin Journal, I was pleased to accept. In my monthly columns, I will reflect on our life together as we go through the regular and inevitable transitions of life. I look forward to sharing my thoughts and hope to hear from you.

Philip Gladden is a retired Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) minister who lives in Wallace, NC. He can be reached at gladdenphilip620@gmail.com.

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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ABBY CAVENAUGH | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Volunteers prepare Thanksgiving care packages, touch the lives of hundreds Volunteers Richie Bowen and Leah Brock form an assembly line to give out chickens and other food items during a Thanksgiving Resource Event at the Duplin County Events Center on Wednesday, Nov. 22. Hundreds braved the pouring rain on Wednesday morning to receive the care packages, courtesy of the Duplin County Health Department and other county agencies.

TANISHA JONES

JASMINE JONES

TANYA NOVAKOWSKI

SULNORA OLUYEMI

TIM MATEER

Five RHM teachers win more than 10K in NC Bright Ideas grants The elementary school teachers are five out of 21 teachers who won grants in four counties

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal ROSE HILL — Innovation, creativity and diligence to engage the minds of local students paid off for five dedicated teachers at Rose Hill-Magnolia Elementary School as Four County Electric Membership Corporation recently announced its NC Bright Ideas grant winners.

TaNisha Jones, Jasmine Jones, Tanya Novakowski, Sulnora Oluyemi and Tim Mateer, are five of 21 educators who won NC Bright Ideas grants, bringing home a total of $10,489.44 to fund their

school projects. T. Jones received $1,950 for her project Sphero Indi Education Robot, J. Jones received $1,572.86 for her project PocketLab for thermal Energy Exploration, Novakowski received $1,316.58 for her project Water, water, everywhere!, Oluyemi received $1,900 for her project Visual Art, STEAMA, Social Studies, Math, 21st Century skills, and Mateer was awarded $1,875 for his project LEGO & I’m in the KNow! Mateer, RHM Elementary School STEAMA teacher shared that any teacher who comes up with a great idea for their classroom can “write a grant for it and very possibly get it funded” through the program.

“It is a godsend to us teachers… Most of us can’t just take

that out of our pockets and go out and buy it,” he added.

“I tell teachers ‘Look, you’ve got this dream where you want to do something that’s really cool, here’s your opportunity to do it, and you don’t have to have money out of your pocket,’” said Mateer. “Duplin Schools does not have funds to pay for stuff that are above and beyond the normal curriculum for teachers either.”

Mateer’s Lego project teaches kids about forces and how forces work in everyday life.

“It teaches them motion, and it teaches them the push and the pull and all of that by building a Lego figure and then it actually acts it out and it shows them how that force is used,” said Mateer. ”This is a perfect way to teach forces to these kids and they’ll never

forget it. But it’s also a blast.”

“There’s a lot of exciting stuff that’s going on and the kids love it,” said Mateer to the Duplin Journal. “My goal is for the kids to get excited about education, that’s what I’m all about and if I can get them to be excited about that, then I’ll keep writing grants as much as I can.”

“We are honored to award $28,000 to 21 exceptional educators, empowering them to implement groundbreaking classroom projects. Witnessing the positive impact on over 2,500 students in Bladen, Duplin, Pender, and Sampson counties is truly inspiring.

Congratulations to these education trailblazers; we can’t wait to see what they come up with next year,” said Molly Giffin with Four County Electric Membership Corporation.

“There’s a lot of exciting stuff that’s going on and the kids love it. My goal is for the kids to get excited about education, that’s what I’m all about and if I can get them to be excited about that, then I’ll keep writing grants as much as I can.”

Tim Mateer, Rose Hill-Magnolia Elementary School teacher

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Wallace’s Dr. Dan set to retire, close optometry practice after 47 years

By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin Journal

WALLACE — The end of an era is looming in Wallace. After 47 years, Dr. Dan Robinson, commonly known simply as “Dr. Dan,” will retire and close his practice, bringing an end to the three-generations long stint of the Robinson family practicing medicine in the town.

Dr. Dan’s grandfather, Dr. John D. Robinson, Sr., opened his medical practice in downtown Wallace in 1954, followed years later by his son, Dr. John D. Robinson, Jr., who opened an optometry practice. Dr. Dan decided at an early age that he wanted to be an optometrist, just like his dad.

He made the decision in seventh grade, Dr. Dan said. “We had to do a term paper and I thought it’d be easy to write about optometry, because I thought my dad would send me all this information,” he explained. “My mother and father divorced when I was 10, so I was living in Durham. He sent me information, but I had to do the work on my own. By the time I went to college, my schoolwork was all the optometry prerequisites. I graduated from the University of North Carolina in Wilmington with a degree in chemistry. Then I got two degrees from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. One is in visiological optics and the other is a doctorate in optometry. I was pretty dead set on what I was going to do, and I’ve never regretted it.”

He opened his practice on Main Street in Wallace in 1976, and will close it on December 22, 2023. He said he made the decision with the help of his two employees, Linda Kraulik, who has been with the practice for N JOURNAL 40 years, and Rhonda DeVane, who’s been there 32 years.

“They’ve been dedicated employees,” Dr. Dan said. “You can’t go to many practices that have receptionists or technicians or whatever that have worked 32 or 40 years. That’s been wonderful here, patients come in and they know who these girls are, and the girls know them. But that makes a difference. I look at that like community. They’re really family to me. I’ve spent a lot more hours with them than I have with my wife, by a long measure.”

Dr. Dan and his staff made the decision to close the practice together, he said, adding that he was going to retire in two years anyway, but his staff’s health concerns have necessitated an acceleration in those plans. “It’s the best time, in my mind,” he said.

“It’s been a very rewarding profession, and we’ve had so many families that have been loyal patients,” Dr. Dan added.

“We’re seeing third, and sometimes fourth generations.”

Kraulik said she will miss the patients, many of whom she’s gotten to know very well over the past 40-plus years. “We are more like family than coworkers,” added DeVane.

The staff is required to maintain the practice for 90 days after its closure, to rectify any outstanding insurance claims and provide records to patients.

However, Dr. Dan is hopeful that he’ll be able to find a qualified practitioner to take over the practice in that time. “I’m trying to find somebody suitable to come in and take over a well-established practice,” he said. “The community needs it.”

He understands that his loyal patients feel concern about finding a new eye doctor once his practice is closed. “People have come in and said, ‘Oh, Dr. Dan, you can’t retire!’,” he said. “And it makes you feel good because you know they care. And [they ask,] ’who am I going to see?’ A lot of these practices are full with their patients. I tell them, give me some time to see if I can get somebody, but we’ll get you seen.

We’ve got good practitioners around us, in Kenansville and Burgaw.”

Dr. Dan’s patients are so loyal that even after a satellite practice in Warsaw closed in 2016, many of those patients followed him back to the Wallace office.

Dr. Dan Robinson also gets referrals for eye injuries, in addition to regular eye exams. “I don’t know who’s going to be able to do that once we close,” he admitted. “But I can’t practice without a sufficient office staff.

And hopefully, we’ll get a new practitioner or a group to come in and take over. They may not be in this building but they’d have access to our patient base.”

One thing is for certain: Dr. Dan and his wife, Tanya, will remain in the Wallace com-

ABBY CAVENAUGH | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Dr. Dan Robinson, who’s practiced optometry in Wallace for the past 47 years, will close his practice on Friday, Dec. 22, and retire. munity. Though he moved to Durham with his mother in the fourth grade, he returned to Wallace after college and has stayed there ever since. There was never any question that his optometric practice would be right here at home.

“When I was an undergraduate in UNCW, I came home almost every weekend,” he said.

“I love the people of Wallace. …

I can’t imagine wanting to live in a city anymore, especially when you try to drive around Wilmington or Raleigh, or even Durham.”

Not only has Dr. Dan been a mainstay in the medical community of Wallace, he’s also been very active in his community, like his father and grandfather before him. He was a part of the Wallace Jaycees when it was in existence, as well as the Wallace 100 Committee, and served on the Duplin Board of Health for 15 years. He is also a member and past president of the Rotary Club in Wallace. He’s active in his church, Wallace Presbyterian, and is a member of the Gideons International and a qualified church speaker.

“When you get involved, you become part of the fabric of the community,” he said. “When I look at what my grandfather did, my dad’s service… one of the credos in the Jaycees creed was that service to humanity is the best work of life. Rotary, you know, has a saying, he profits most who serves best.”

Of the many accomplishments and awards that line his office walls, including photos of

his grandfather with Eleanor Roosevelt and an invitation to John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, Dr. Dan is perhaps most proud of receiving the award that bears his later father’s name. “Because of his service to the Board of Examiners of Optometry, my dad was recognized by people all over the U.S.,” he explained. His father was instrumental in passing a nationwide law in 1977, which established that optometrists could prescribe medications and treatments. “So, they established this award in my dad’s honor, the Clinical Excellence Award.

And I was a clinical examiner for many years. So our people that come out of school and want to be optometrists, have to take a board exam, so they established this on June 7, 2002. And after years of serving as a clinical examiner, I actually was given the award that’s named for my dad in 2008. So that was a pretty proud moment.”

With just a little more than three weeks left to care for his patents’ eyes, Dr. Dan reflects on his many years in Wallace, and his father and grandfather’s legacies, and realizing he now has one, too. So, what will he do now? Maybe finally find time to play golf, he joked.

“But you know, when you close a practice down, you’re closing a chapter in your life, and it’s like I’m going into uncharted waters,” he said. “I’m going to miss seeing patients in my office, and I hope I’ll recognize them out in public places.

It’s been a good 47 years, and I can’t regret a moment.”

DEC. 1 Starting on Dec. 1 Liberty Hall Restoration in Kenansville will host their Candlelight Tours Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. and Dec. 2 from 5:30-8 p.m. Cash Only.

Rose Hill’s Christmas by the Tracks and Parade will be on Dec 2. The celebrations kick off at noon. The parade will start at 5 p.m. Kids are encouraged to bring their decorated bikes, scooters, skateboards and more to ride them in the Kid Zone.

For information, call 910289-1346.

Red’s Discount Tools Opens in Beulaville Beulaville Red’s Discount Tools is now open in Beulaville, at 514 W. Main St., the former Western Auto building. The hardware store is Duplin County’s only Maruyama dealer, and also sells other brand names like DeWalt, Miwaulkee, and more. The store held its grand opening on Tuesday, Nov. 28, and is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 910358-5532 for more information.

Red’s Discount Tools has another location on Richlands Highway in Jacksonville.

ECU Health Duplin Pharmacy Promotes Two Kenansville ECU Health Duplin Hospital Pharmacists Sharon Haney and Brittany Byrd were both recently promoted. During a leadership meeting, the two were recognized by current Pharmacy Manager Leigh Hurley and retired Pharmacy Manager Annette Taylor.

James Sprunt Hosts Small Business Expo Kenansville James Sprunt Community College will host a Small Business Expo on Thursday, Nov. 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Williams Building at the Kenansville campus. Business owners are invited to showcase their products and services. For more information, contact Joy Wynne at jwynne@jamessprunt. edu, or call 910-659-6008.

Redefined Home Decor Gifts & More Grand Opening Wallace Redefined Home Décor Gifts & More will hold a grand opening on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, vendors, food trucks, a raffle basket, and a dog’s ugly Christmas sweater contest.

Santa Claus will be on hand, too!

The store is located in the old Walmart shopping center, 733 N. Norwood St. in Wallace. For more information, call 910-6651035.

DEC. 13 The Senior Scam Jam and Christmas celebration will be at the Duplin Events Center on Dec. 13 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will feature health screenings, music, a crafting station and more.

For more information, call 910-296-2140.

Down Home Christmas Shows at Duplin Winery will take place on Dec 1, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16.

DEC. 2 Christmas on Front Street will be on Dec. 2 in Warsaw, 2 -6 p.m. The event will feature inflatables, concession vendors, local dance clubs, music, a tree lighting ceremony, and more!

5

Dec. 2. The event will feature dancing, singing, shopping, and food trucks from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

DEC. 3 The Pink Hill Christmas Parade will take place Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m.

For more information, email Parade@townofpinkhill. com

Calypso Christmas in the Park is Saturday, Dec. 2, at 3 p.m. and will feature a visit from Santa, crafts, music, and hot chocolate.

DEC. 8 A Grinchful Christmas free movie night is set for Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Duplin Events Center featuring “The Santa Clause” movie and goodie bags for the children. The event is free.

Faison Excellence N-Motion presents “Winter Wonderland” on Saturday,

DEC. 9 Join the Wallace Chamber of Commerce Christmas

Parade on Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at the intersection of Lanier and Highway 117 and Norwood Street.

Wallace Parks and Recreation presents Christmas at Clement, Saturday, Dec. 9 at 513 SE Railroad Street in Wallace from 2-6 p.m.

Downtown Wallace Santa House will open Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Dec. 15, 4-6 p.m., Dec. 16, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and Dec. 22, 4-6 p.m.

The Carolina Strawberry Festival presents Paint, Eat, and Be Merry on Dec. 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Batts Family Farm presents Christmas with the Grinch, PJs, and movie night on Dec. 9, 4-6 p.m.

For information, call 910284-5280.

The Beulaville Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Christmas Parade will be on Dec. 9 at 2 pm.

For information, call 910298-4647.

Richlands Illuminated Christmas Parade at Richlands High School will be on Dec. 9 at 3:30 p.m.

DEC. 10 Albertson Christmas Parade will be on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Parade route will start at Piney Grove Road.

DEC. 15 Wallace Parks and Recreation presents Kids Night Out on Dec. 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 513 SE Railroad Street in Wallace. Ages 5 to 12. $20 per child, $12 per sibling.

There will be pizza, games, and crafts. This event requires pre-registration.

For information, call 910285-2905.

DEC. 17 Island Creek Baptist Church in Rose Hill will host a Candlelight Service on Dec. 17. For information, call 910-4638448.

DEC. 16 A movie night featuring “The Grinch” will take place on the swim beach area at Cabin Lake. Free hot coco and popcorn will be served starting at 5 p.m. Showtime is at 6 p.m.

For more information, call 910-298-3648.

6

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Business booming in Wallace Shopping center, residential developments underway

By Abby Cavenaugh Duplin Journal WALLACE — By this time next year, the town of Wallace should have numerous new businesses, as well as more than 300 new houses, if current construction projects and developments go as planned.

There has been talk of Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts opening in town, but Town Manager Rob Taylor said he couldn’t confirm which businesses will locate in a new shopping center being constructed on NC Hwy. 41 by the Walmart Supercenter.

“It will be a coffee shop with a drive-thru,” Taylor said, “And it probably will be a chain. But that’s the developer’s decision on what will go in those four new units in that shopping center.”

That developer is Dae Building, a construction company based in Wilmington, which has built numerous retail spaces, car washes, doctor’s offices, and more throughout southeastern North Carolina.

Across the street from the under-construction shopping center will be a Snappy Lube, a drive-thru garage that will offer auto services like oil changes, tire rotations, transmission and radiator services, windshield wiper replacement, and more.

There was originally talk of a car wash going in that location, but the deal fell through on that, Taylor said.

Also in the Tin City area of Wallace, a Royal Farms gas station plans to break ground next year. “It will be where Tin City Express is now, at the corner of Highway 41 and 11,” Taylor said, adding, “We’ve approved the plans. It meets our zoning

AIRPARK from page 1

that could be used for distribution facilities. “There’s industrial parks dotted all over this state that have a combination,” said the Army veteran, explaining that some larger spaces may be 100,000-square feet “but also, we want to take advantage of the 25,000-square feet and smaller that may be like outparcel space and could be smaller-type operations. We want to take advantage of both.”

According to Carrie Shields, County manager assistant and former EDC director having shell building infrastructure adjacent to the airport’s runway positions the county in a suitable place to attract manufacturing companies and light industrial businesses that complement the surrounding counties.

“We are really in a perfect position to capture any kind of businesses and industries, due to our location,” said Shields.

Located less than nine miles from Interstate 40, the AirPark provides six exits throughout the county with easy connections to I-95, I-85, I-77, and I-26. Access to Highway 24 is only 5.2 miles from the AirPark with two deep-water ports within a 1.5-hour drive. In addition to its proximity to Duplin Airport, the Airpark is conveniently located 41 miles from ISO regional airport, and 60 miles from ILM international airport.

According to Summerlin, a $12 million State Budget allocation for infrastructure improvements will provide funding for

requirements and we’re good there. We just don’t have a timeline to keep to on that.”

“We’ve got a lot of interest.

Several housing developments are also in the works in It has really picked up a lot and around Wallace in the com- in the last 12 months or ing year.

Also in the Walmart area, by so. There are a lot of good the town’s water tower, there things coming.” will be a development of 250 homes. They will be located on Highway 41 and circle around to Rob Taylor, Wallace Town Highway 11, Taylor said.

Manager About 40 homes are also slated to be added to the Eastwood Acres development. Construction has already begun on some “We’ve got a lot of interest. It has really picked up a lot in the last of those homesites.

In addition, there will be “a 12 months or so. There are a lot smaller development” near Wal- of good things coming.”

When asked why Wallace is lace Elementary School, Taylor said. “The permits have been becoming increasingly popular approved, and they’re ready to for development, Taylor said, “I guess Wilmington has gotten break ground.”

In another 90 days, there too expensive, so they’ve started will probably be more develop- down the interstate and found ment news coming, Taylor said. Wallace.”

PHOTO COURTESR OF MELISA BROWN

Wallace resident celebrates 103rd birthday

This shopping center, currently under construction, will bring at least four new businesses to the rapidly growing Tin City area of Wallace, on NC Highway 41.

Elizabeth Hicks of Wallace celebrated her 103rd birthday on Nov. 20. She is pictured above with Commissioner Jesse L. Dowe who presented her with an official birthday greeting on behalf of the Duplin County Board of Commissioners.

all three industrial parks in Duplin County and added that a fourth industrial park is on the horizon for Beulaville.

“The state has been very helpful,” said Summerlin. “Senator Brent Jackson and Representative Jimmy Dixon, they were instrumental in getting funding to help us.” Summerlin also shared that because the county relies on the towns for sewer capacity at each park, they will be working closely with the towns of Kenansville, Warsaw, and Wallace.

According to Summerlin, in addition to the State Budget allocation they received $262,000 for project design and appraisals from the North Carolina Southeast Regional Partnership, $17,500 for project due diligence work, and $423,500 for clearing, grubbing, and rough grading of the project area from the Golden LEAF Foundation, a legislative allocation of $1.5 million from the State Capital and Infrastructure Fund for road construction within the park and $2.75 million for water and sewer extensions, and additional road construction from the NC Commerce Industrial Development Fund, totaling $16,953,500.

“It’s taken a whole community to rally behind this to make this happen,” said Shields, explaining that the AirPark was the fruit of an effort that brought together local and regional stakeholders, members of the Economic Development Board, the Airport Board, County Commissioners, and legislators.

in the planning process of developing the AirPark master plan providing key insight to industry-specific needs and funding.

“They helped open our eyes to several things that we were lacking that we wouldn’t have necessarily seen unless we were in that industry,” said Shields. “The master plan was finalized in 2021 and from there, we have been advocating with our state, and our stakeholders for funding so that we could make this vision a reality.”

Shields attributes its success to knowledgeable leadership with an enterprising mentality.

“The Economic Development Board is an extraordinarily strong forward-thinking board as well as our Board of County Commissioners. They see what other counties are doing, and we have done the right investigative work to position Duplin County to receive the same opportunities,” said Shields, adding that “Tri-County EMC and the North Carolina Electric Cooperative, they’ve been our biggest advocates to support the Airpark.”

“Through this forward-thinking effort, they are making sure that all of our municipalities that have available infrastructure are in a position to recruit business and industry,” said Shields, explaining that the goal is to “create space to attract business and industry that complement the businesses and industry that we have already recruited to Duplin County as well as what is being recruited around Duplin County.”

ABBY CAVENAUGH | DUPLIN JOURNAL

“Economic development for me, the true mission is business and industry and for us that is putting infrastructure in place. That is having the water and wastewater because the towns are doing a great job on residential development.

But I really see our key role is building capacity and that’s water and wastewater and then marketing the county. I am not saying that we are focusing on one side of business. But really, every aspect of business growth.”

Scotty Summerlin, Economic Development Commission executive director “Jennifer Martin with Parish and Partners and myself, we went and interviewed all our stakeholders that are currently at the airport. We met with Smithfield, Southern Bank, Tri-County Electric Membership Corporation, and the North Carolina Electric Cooperatives,” said Shields, explaining that the stakeholders were instrumental

FIREFIGHTERS from page 1

Warsaw Fire Chief John Blackmore at the scene of a house fire in Warsaw on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUSAN JOHNSON

extensive fire spread throughout the structure, he added, but the firefighters were able to extinguish the fire.

No one was at home when the fire broke out, so there were no injuries to the homeowner. However, one firefighter did suffer burns to his shoulder and was transported to ECU Health Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, Blackmore said.

The injuries were not life threatening, and most of the firefighters were able to re-

turn to their homes for a late Thanksgiving Day meal.

Warsaw Fire Department dispatched Engines 1 and 3, Truck 4, Tankers 1 and 2, and Command 4 to battle the fire.

They were assisted by Kenansville Fire Department, Magnolia Fire Department, Faison Fire Department, Warsaw Police Department, Duplin County EMS, the Duplin County Fire Marshal, and Duke Energy, Blackmore said.

“Everyone did their jobs,” Blackmore said. “I couldn’t ask for a better response.”

Summerlin told the Duplin Journal that they are looking to bring industries that support services for agriculture and aviation. “Logistics also could be a major player, but supporting aviation and supporting agriculture is what we’re going after,” said Summerlin.

“We’ve got our eyes open to lots of opportunities,” said Shields. “It’s definitely going to be prosperous for Kenansville as a municipality and then Duplin County as a whole.”

“Economic development for me, the true mission is business and industry and for us that is putting infrastructure in place.

That is having the water and wastewater because the towns are doing a great job on residential development. But I really see our key role is building capacity and that’s water and wastewater and then marketing the county,” said Summerlin. “I am not saying that we are focusing on one side of business. But really, every aspect of business growth.”

Through local and regional partnerships, the common goal is to encourage economic development across the region.

Summerlin, shared that they are utilizing services of local businesses in the construction.

F&S Grading out of Warsaw is handling the clearing and grubbing work, McDavid Associates is doing the water and sewer engineering and design. Parrish and Partners is the lead engineer and was responsible for the Duplin County AirPark Master Development Plan.

“Our members were just sitting down with their families like everyone else, and got up and went. We had 25-plus that responded, even though it was Thanksgiving Day. It was a really good turnout.”

Warsaw Fire Chief John Blackmore

SPORTS Crumpler’s touch adds new life to HCA hoops

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED coach Mark Lane’s next destination is winning 300 games. His teams play strong defense and push the pace.

Panthers ready to return to place of power East Duplin is reloaded after two seasons as a nonfactor on the courts

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — East Duplin coach Mark Lane averaged nearly 20 wins a season during his career.

The last two seasons was a rare exception as the Panthers suffered a loss in talent and numbers that led to 11-14 and 8-13 marks in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

But the talent and depth is back and it veteran coach made it through a dark two-year tunnel.

“I love what I do and each year is a challenge,” said Lane, whose next career milestone is 300 wins. “The year before was tough,

but I was very proud of how we finished last year to make the playoffs, winning seven or eight more games than we did the year before.”

ED played without a true point guard last season but has several options at the spot.

Enter freshman Kinsey Cave “She can shoot, pass it the

length of the floor and has incredible vision,” Lane said. “She surprises our girls in practice with her passes.”

Another quality upgrade is classmate Ava Noble, who wants to pursue softball in college, though she has plenty to offer on the court.

“She gets after people and is hard nosed,” Lane said. “If I had five of her we would win a lot of basketball games. She’s made some freshmen mistakes, like turnovers. But we are living with her development.”

Another piece of the puzzle is an old one for ED, former Panther Makya Kornegay, who was an all-county first-team player as See ED G HOOPS, page 9

Third time around North Duplin has wins in two seasons, rolls dice for berth in state finals

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

DUPLIN JOURNAL

Tateyawna Faison is key to the ND defense and offensive attack in the paint.

CALYPSO — Reece Outlaw, Addy Higginbotham and Tateyawna Faison have one more ride together, and North Duplin fans are wondering if that will lead to an appearance in the 1A finals.

Outlaw was the girls’ player of the year last season, while Higginbotham and Faison were first-team selections.

The threesome led the Rebels to the third- and fourthround of the playoff the previously two seasons en route to

going 46-4 and winning consecutive Carolina 1A Conference titles.

So the next logical step is target to the state title game.

“We don’t talk about that much,” said ND coach John Oliver. “We talk about improving.

“What concerns me is our point guard play, our rebounding and that we play to conserve fouls, not being over-aggressive in situations. We are not as deep as I would like and can’t afford to just play everyone just yet. So, I feel good about us going 7 to 8 deep.”

“I feel good about us going 7 to 8 deep” North Duplin coach John Oliver

Big 3 ready to rock ND’s

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See ND G HOOPS, page 8

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Curt Simpson, Broker in Charge

HARRELLS — Derrick Crumpler knows what it takes to win after starring at Clinton High and the University of Mount Olive.

He has parlayed that into a winning formula for the Harrells Christian Academy girls’ basketball team.

After what seemed like endless one- and two-win seasons, he guided HCA to a 10-10 mark in 2022.

“The goal is to get a little better, teach basketball and let them have fun,” Crumpler said of his team that is off to a 2-0 start.

“Last year we got better every game. The sky is the limit right now. We don’t have any major expectations. We want to win the conference and make the playoffs and win more games than we did the previous season.”

One key to that is through the play of guard senior Sabrina Batts.

“She’s a natural talent, so good at using either hand to dribble or she can go down low, Crumpler said.

“She also plays defense and shoots the ball well.”

Another decent shooter is classmate Georgia Pope.

“She plays the game as hard as any girl I know,” Crumpler said, “and plays three or four sports. I like her competitiveness.”

Fellow returnee Piper Moore and sophomore Chloe Bowles.

“Both Piper and Chloe have no idea how good they can be,” Crumpler said.

“Piper listens to everything and isn’t the tallest or smoothest. A team doesn’t win games from attitude and ability, they win them from listening.

“You’ll see how good Chloe is in the next few years,” Crumpler said of his junior. She can shoot like Sabrina but she can score like her.”

Another cog is Ella Campbell, HCA’s soccer goalie. She gives maximum effort at all times, according to Crumpler.

“She’s trusted me as a coach from Day 1,” the HCA coach said. “She plays hard and rebounds the ball so well. She doesn’t get intimidated and goes to her left and right well and has a decent jump shot.”

Crumpler is letting sophomore point guard Mary Willow-Rumbold find her way, knowing she will make See HCA G HOOPS, page 9

8

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Tigers to use inside-outside approach to offense Returning guard Joyner, post player Kornegay lead JK’s attack

She’s a good ball handler, passer and gives us a working signal,” Williams said. “In game 3 and game 10, we’ll be blending seniors with freshman and sophomores.”

By Michael Jaenicke Guard Gabi Outlaw returns Duplin Journal a bit better after than last seaWARSAW — James Kenan’s son and will be a starter early.

“She’s as good shooter,” Wilnew gold and black-trim uniforms aren’t the only change liams said.

“I know she can help us offor coach Kenny Williams’ club fensively. We need to get her this season.

Entering his seventh season, better defensively.”

Freshman Y’Anna is a risWilliams is putting a starting ing sophomore ready lineup together that for ‘the bumping and will consist of two sebruising that comes niors, a junior and two a newcomer,’” Wilsophomores.

“I’m excited to liams said.

Other players will “She’s the biggest fit into the mix later to are how in the season as Wil- they develop girl I’ve had here at James Kenan,” Williams and his staff – liams said. “She’s goLeAhnie Rivers and learn and ing to help with conJonisha Faison Mc- grow” ference wars. We can Coy – develop a plan run our inside-outside for the other players in James Kenan plays because of her the fold. handle and ability to “That group played coach Kenny score.”

Jacksonville shot for Aleayah Wilson, a shot for a quarter and Williams frosh, will be on the a half,” Williams said. floor this week.

“A lot of what happens “She’s got a big mofor us will be detertor and I love her enermined in how well the gy,” Williams said. younger players blend Other players to be in and mesh.” on the lookout for inJK’s Lilly Kornegay was the most feared inside clude: Tytianna Wilson, Latoplayer in Duplin County last nia Mason, Kalean Williams season. The senior inside post and MarLeshia Strong.

“We’re going 6 to 10 deep,” averaged 10.8 points and 11.1 said the JK head coach. “I’m rebounds.

“She took a step last year into excited to see how they develop, becoming a player you cannot learn and grow.

“I’m excited.” stop in the paint,” “She held JK went 2-18 overall and 1-12 down the points, rebounds.

She’ll get points, rebounds and in ECC play last season and did give us a good solid game with not make the state playoffs.

“I expect our conference to her defense.

“She needs to take another be as good as it was last year,” step or two in the right direc- Williams said. “We’ll have a battle every night. We were in tion.”

Ron’Nyia Joyner returns at every game last year. We need point guard. The senior aver- to learn how to finish games. aged 9.1 points and 2.1 on the That comes with time and experience.” second team.

Sophia Sloan got valuable experience last season as a freshman guard.

Look for WRH’s Angelina Cavallaro to step up this season.

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Will Jeffers returns to build Bulldog basketball dreams Returnees, young talent to be shaped by veteran coach

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WALLACE – Will Jeffers has returned to the Wallace-Rose Hill basketball bench.

Jeffers, a longtime football assistant and basketball coach for both genders, is coaching the Bulldog girls.

The move came after Simonne Murray was transferred.

Jeffers gave up the girls team a couple of years ago.

What could be a one-year experience might reset the program and return WRH to its winning ways.

Also back on the court is Maia Williams, a second-team all-county player from a season ago.

Williams averaged 6.3 points and 3.5 rebounds to help WRH go 3-3 in its final six games to finish at 4-15.

“Maia is very aggressive and brought that to the court last year,” Jeffers said. “She brings a fight and competitive spirit to us.”

Also returning is Naveah Dobson, who went to WRH before playing for James Kenan.

She’s a 5-foot-11 post player.

“She’ll be a big cog in the wheel,” Jeffers said. “She was impressive her freshman season here. I’m glad she’s come back.”

WRH has a number of athletes who were successful in softball

ND G HOOPS from page 7 threats are taking aim.

Outlaw averaged 20.2 points, three assists and four rebounds last season, which included a Duplin County-high 50 3-pointers.

“She’s really good and we’re taking some of the pressure off her,” Oliver said. “Pure athletic ability, totally has her head together and a great team play who steps up in crunch time.”

Higginbothom will gravitate

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK coach Kenny Williams is entering his seventh season.

last spring and volleyball in the fall.

Angel Rivenbark and Angelina Cavallaro are two such multisport faces peering out at the crowd.

Rivenbark, a sophomore, will play center.

“She has good size and listens well,” Jeffers said. “She worked hard in the summer and will be a weapon for us on offense and

defense.”

Cavallaro, a junior and arguably the top volleyball players in Duplin, will be counted on heavily.

“She can dribble with both hands and is a slasher type of player,” Jeffers said. “She has a midrange game now.”

Guard Savannah Smith showed toughness as a frosh last season, but should prosper from that experience this winter.

“She has such a good head on her shoulders,” Jeffers said. “She

away from the point and go to shooting guard.

She averaged 15 points, five assists and three steals and has played alongside of Outlaw since both were young grasshoppers in the recreation leagues.

“I think Addy’s going to score more this year,” Oliver said.

“We’re not deep. So we have to watch silly fouls.”

Oliver is still trying to tinker with his lineup to get playing time for younger players, while also giving the starters minutes.

“Our chemistry is OK with four that played together last year. We also need to leave our baggage at the corner. Foul trouble is huge for us.

“Our chemistry is OK and more so because many of the girls played softball and volleyball together.”

Faison, a 6-foot pivot, hit for 10.3 points and 9.5 rebounds last season.

“We need her more involved in the offense,” Oliver said. “She gets a lot of putbacks but we

want to have a presence down low.”

Lilly Fulghum moves from forward to the point.

“That should really help everyone out,” Oliver said. “And we need to take some of the pressure off Faison as well. We need to have Reece work through boxand-ones with passes and to take open shots. Everyone going to be better and hopefully more unified.

Starting forward Meghan Martin is another returnee

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Lillie Kornegay averaged nearly a double-double last season, while fighting off injuries.

understands the team concept, understands the game.”

Ditto for sophomores Sophie Sloan, and Jansley Page, a post player with size and perhaps WRH’s best all-around volleyball player, who can spike, dig, block and run the court.

Sloan is a guard who averaged 6.2 points.

“She has the fire of a competitor,” Jeffers said.

WRH opens the season on Friday with a trip to play 3A Jacksonville.

who plays good defense and rebounds, but will be asked to score this season.

Most of ND’s size comes from Faison.

But look for Lilliana White, Eva Quintanilla and Abigail Norris to provide defense in the paint and corners before their respective skills improve with experience.

Piper Creekmore, M’chelle Jaco, Tristyn Blust and Marissa Bernal to be backup in the back court.

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Favorite Dark Horses closes in on title berth

ia Sloan aluable rience eason as hman By Michael Jaenicke d.

Duplin Journal

CLINTON – The Dark Horses play their final home game on Friday in a season that fans hold unto the highest expectations.

The top seed in 2A has met each goal enroute to a 14-0 season and host No. 2 seed Northeastern in the East Region final.

A win will give the Dark Horses their chance at a sixth state title.

Other region matchups in the East feature super power and No. 1 seed Tarboro clash with West Columbus in 1A; Northern Nash (13-1) clash with Fayettville’s Seventy-First (14-0) in 3A; and Topseed Hoggard (13-1) square off against No. 2 Cardinal Gibbons (12-2) in 4A. Winners advance to the Dec. 8-9 at sites on the UNC campus that has yet to be defor termined by the NCHSAA. H’s Dark Horses light path with lina talent laro to An influx of top-tier imup this ported talent has made Clinn. ton, which has outscored foes 734-181 the team to beat in 2A. The Horses have six new starters and are led by Florida University recruit Amaris Williams, a 6-foot-7, 270 pound monster who makes runners Have nightmares under the lights.

Williams has 109 tackles, 18 sacks and is the No. 18 prospect in the state by more than one scouting sources.

But the Dark Horses have much more than a stellar defense.

QB Nydarian Blackwell (82-123 for 1,812 yards and 25 TDs) and a trio of running

2003 Rushing yards this season by Northern Nash’s Elijay Pitts

backs that include Josiah McLaurin (103-1,170 yards, 27 TDs), Rosiah Robinson (901087, 14 TDs) and Williams (39-679 yards, 12 TDs) provide ample offense and a balanced run/pass attack.

Clinton beat Nash Central 55-32 last Friday, the same night Northeastern pushed past Whiteville 17-14.

The Eagles are paced by QB Trevaris Jones (132-210 for 2,150 yards, 38 TDs), who has found Tyquan Harney (34-910 yards, 14 TDs), Tyell Sanders (36-804 yards, 9 TDs) as favorite targets as well as Dwan Bell (21-605m 5 TDs).

Bell has also ran for 588 yards and eight scores. But RB Tyselle Spencer (178-2,491, 33 TDs) has been the backfield workhorse.

Vikings want win, revenge in 1A final No. 1 Tarboro, which has been among the few untouchables in 1A needs a victory to avenge a loss to 20-7 setback to Mount Airy in the 2022 final.

To do that the Tarboro will have to dispose of West Columbus (12-1) in the battle of the Viking mascots.

For WC to make a counter it will have to first stop the three-headed RB effort of Kamerin McDowell (101-1,108, 22 TDs), Mason Satterfield

(92-989, 15 TDs) and Caiden Evertte (88-89, 11 TDs).

QB Unique Kelly leads by running (91-753, 12 TDs) and passing (73-116 for 1,275, 17 TDs).

Northern Nash is 3A pick, tossup in 4A Northern Nash (13-1) handed Havelock (13-1) its first loss with a 42-21 win last Friday behind QB Elijay Pitts (116185 for 2,003 yards, 26 TDs) and Dywhamn Mitchell (110803, 6 TDs).

The Knights will need to knock off another unbeaten to advance as No. 2 Seventy-First enters with a 14-game streak.

The Falcons have three 1,000-yard runners in Jayson Franklin (1,234 yards, 14 TDs), Donovan Frederick (1,431, 10 TDs) and DeAndre (1,411, 32 TDs).

The No. 13 team, which enters at 14-0, also uses QB Nance’s arm (98-142 for 1,437, 32 TDs).

Even freshman Shon Pone has more than (59-516, 8 TDs) has quality numbers.

The 4A final is a showdown between No. 3 Hoggard (13-1) and No. 13 Cardinal Gibbons.

Cardinal Gibbon (12-2) knocked off No. 1 Rollesville last Friday as two-way threat QB Gannon Jones had a field day. He has 1,186 yards in passing and 2,193 yards and 29 TDs this season.

Hoggard is led by QB Hudson Williams (133-184 for 1,830 yards, 19 TDs) and receivers Skyler Merrill, Blake Edwards and Anizlon Sessions, who have combined for 1,468 yards and 33 scores.

Traditionally, one of four classifications play on Friday night (Dec. 8) and the other three the following day.

9

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East Duplin, football Jones played virtually every play for the Panthers, who went 10-2 in a rebuilding season that ended in the second round of the 2A playoffs.

“This guy has done everything we’ve asked of him since we brought him to varsity as a sophomore,” said ED coach Battle Holley. “I never wanted to take him off the field.

“He’s extremely coachable, a great wing back blocker and steady strong safety. Last year (during run to 2A title) he was glue for our special teams.

ED G HOOPS from page 7

MICHAEL JAENICKE | DUPLIN JOURNAL

Josiah McLaurin has ran for 1,170 yards and 27 TDs.

Hatcher, supporting cast return

HCA G HOOPS from page 7 miscues related to her inexperience.

“She’s good and I’m letting her go,” he said. “That’s how she’ll learn best.”

Crumpler has had a few different work jobs, but is currently the owner of a trucking company. He’s inspired his players to be both serious about the game and to enjoy it.

“Even when we were 1-10 our girls believed,” he said.

“Now they’re having fun. I can’t imagine playing the bulk of a season and not really enjoying it.

HCA beat Fayetteville Academy 44-23 in its season opener and were to play Liberty Christian and Greenfield-Wilson early this week and travel to Rocky Mount Academy on Friday for a conference tilt.

a sophomore before transferring to Southwest Onslow last season, giving Lane just one returning player with significant playing time last season.

“She’s a jet and a tremendous on-ball defender,” Lane said. “He speed allows her to play up and down the court.”

Harrells Christian Academy girls’ basketball coach Derrick Crumpler.

COURTESY PHOTO

ED was extremely young but got quality growth from many players, including Sallie Hatcher, a first-team all-county player who averaged 10.2 points and was the top 3-point threat in Duplin County.

“We need her to shoot it well in big games,” Lane said “Ball handling is not her forte, nor is driving to the rim. She has a good shot and we need to use that.”

Other returnees include: Zoe Cavanaugh, Zakoya Farrior Ja’Myah Pickett and Carrie Carr.

Zoe is a No. 2 guard playing out of position in 2022.

“She plays great defense and will be the first one to three off the bench for us,” Lane said. “She can handle the ball, but needs to be in her natural spot playing at off guard. She plays great defense.”

Junior Pickett averaged 6.6 points and 8.9 rebounds, sophomore Farrior put up 6.7 markers and 4.1 boards, while junior Carr checked in with 5.6 points and

8.3 rebounds. “(Pickett) made the biggest improvement and is going to battle,” Lane said. “Zakoya has improved her shot. “Ja’Myah is probably our best athlete. She rebounds, runs the floor and can put the ball in the basket in the paint.”

Ra’ziaha Hall and Cierra Pickett will also be in Lane’s rotation.

“Cierra is probably our most improved player and is going to battle every night,” Lane said.

“Carr’s going to help us run the floor, rebound and is a great shot blocker.”

“We go eight to nine deep and speed and we always want to push the ball.”

So this season will more than likely return ED to the limelight.

Senior Taylor Holmes and junior Andraia Scarborough and Naomi Pera will be seeking playing time as the season begin “While we’re still learning together, learning how you have to play at this level,” Lane said.

“This group is exciting. We’re about where we were last year and much closer than we wanted to be. We have an idea of what we can be and where we can go.”

Two years ago, ND won 10 of its final 11 games before falling 48-30 to Wilson Prep in Wilson.

Last season the Rebels ran off 10 wins in 11 games before losing 67-44 to Falls Lake.

ND looks to rule the roost in the Carolina 1A Conference, but has matchup against 2A schools from East Duplin and James Kenan.

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

10 NATIONAL SPORTS

SIDELINE REPORT COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Harbaugh says he’d take less salary to pay players Ann Arbor, Mich.

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh said Sunday he would take less pay if that would help athletes to get paid by the schools.

Harbaugh, a longtime advocate for paying players, said he hopes other coaches would make the same offer. Harbaugh cited the sacrifice athletes make, like when offensive lineman Zak Zinter broke his leg in the third quarter of the Wolverines’ 30-24 win over Ohio State. Athletes are able to make money from their name, image and likeness, but are not paid directly by schools.

FORMULA ONE

McLaren extends engine deal with Mercedes until 2030 Woking, England The McLaren Formula One team will continue using Mercedes engines until 2030 after extending its contract. Mercedes started supplying engines to McLaren again in 2021 and the existing contract was until the end of 2025.

They had previously worked together from 1995-2014.

McLaren driver Lando Norris has seven podium finishes this season and Oscar Piastri has also impressed in his debut season. McLaren finished fourth in the constructors’ standings behind Red Bull, Mercedes and Ferrari.

Daniel Ricciardo won the Italian GP in 2021, the last driver to earn a victory for McLaren.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Cal coach says Aimaq was called a terrorist by a fan Berkeley, Calif.

California basketball coach Mark Madsen says Fardaws Aimaq was called “a terrorist” by a heckling fan after a game against UTEP this week in the SoCal Challenge.

Aimaq’s parents are Afghan refugees. Madsen says Aimaq was allegedly subjected to abhorrent and offensive comments from a fan on Monday. Aimaq went into the bleachers to confront the heckling fan, hovering over him and pointing a finger at his face. The exchange lasted about 10 seconds after the loss to UTEP in San Juan Capistrano, California.

The 6-foot-11 Aimaq is averaging 17.2 points and 9.7 rebounds in his first season at Cal.

NHL

Avalanche’s Girard enters Player Assistance Program St. Paul, Minn.

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Samuel Girard will be away from the team indefinitely while he receives care from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Girard cited anxiety and depression leading to alcohol abuse as the reason for entering the program. He had been away from the Avalanche for personal reasons. The 25-year-old will continue to be paid while getting treatment. His father in a social media post earlier in the day said Girard was in good hands. The Roberval, Quebec, native is in his seventh full NHL season.

AP PHOTO

Oscar Pistorius appears at a bail hearing in 2013 for the shooting death of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in Pretoria, South Africa. Pistorius was granted parole Friday after nearly 10 years in prison for killing Steenkamp.

Oscar Pistorius granted parole, will be released from prison The South African Olympic runner will go free on Jan. 5 The Associated Press PRETORIA, South Africa — Double-amputee Olympic runner Oscar Pistorius was granted parole on Friday, more than a decade after shooting his girlfriend through a toilet door at his home in South Africa in a killing that jolted the world.

He will be released from prison on Jan. 5 but will be constantly monitored by parole officials for five years until his sentence expires, the Department of Corrections said.

Pistorius’ parole will come with other conditions, Department of Corrections spokesman Singabakho Nxumalo said outside of the prison where Pistorius has been incarcerated in the South African administrative capital, Pretoria, for killing Reeva Steenkamp.

Pistorius won’t be allowed to leave the area of Pretoria without permission from authorities.

He will also attend a program to deal with anger issues and

another program on violence against women. He will have to perform community service.

“Parole does not mean the end of the sentence. It is still part of the sentence. It only means the inmate will complete the sentence outside a correctional facility,” Nxumalo said. “What will happen is that Mr. Pistorius will be allocated a monitoring official. This official will work with him until his sentence expires.”

Nxumalo said the monitoring official would need to be notified of any major events in Pistorius’ life, including if he wants to move to another home or get a job.

“We have to be informed of each and every activity,” Nxumalo said.

Pistorius won’t wear a monitoring bracelet as that is not part of South African parole procedure, Nxumalo said. Pistorius’ sentence will expire on Dec. 5, 2029.

The decision to grant parole was made at a hearing at the prison earlier Friday.

Pistorius, who turned 37 this week, has been in jail since late 2014 for the Valentine’s Day 2013 killing of model Steen-

“Parole does not mean the end of the sentence. … It only means the inmate will complete the sentence outside a correctional facility.”

Singabakho Nxumalo, Department of Corrections spokesman kamp, although he was released for a period of house arrest in 2015 while one of the numerous appeals in his case was heard.

He was ultimately convicted of murder and sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison.

Serious offenders in South Africa must serve at least half of their sentence to be eligible for parole, which Pistorius has done.

Pistorius was at the height of his fame and one of the world’s most admired athletes when he killed Steenkamp. He shot her multiple times in the bathroom of his Pretoria villa in the pre-

Rivera’s future with Commanders uncertain after Thanksgiving loss Washington is 26-35-1, including 4-8 this season, with the coach The Associated Press ARLINGTON, Texas — Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera has a pleasant Thanksgiving memory against the Dallas Cowboys.

So much has changed since then.

A lopsided holiday victory at Dallas three years ago in Rivera’s first season with Washington came during a four-game winning streak with the team on the way to its first playoff berth in five seasons.

Now, after the Commanders’ 45-10 loss Thursday in their 11th Thanksgiving Day game against Dallas, the first since that 25-point victory in 2020, there will only be more questions about Rivera’s future in Washington.

The biggest is will he even make it to their next holiday game, a Christmas Eve matchup at the New York Jets?

“I’ve told you before, I’m not

AP PHOTO

Coach Ron Rivera is on the hot seat in Washington after the Commanders fell to 4-8 with a loss to the rival Cowboys on Thanksgiving. worried about it,” Rivera said.

“I’m going to just do my job and see how things go. That’s the only thing I can do.”

The Commanders (4-8) have lost eight of 10 since a promising start for the club’s new ownership group in September, when

they won their first two games.

“This is the league, this is this business. It’s a brutal business, so whatever happens, happens,” tackle Charles Leno Jr. said.

“We’re just going to roll with the punches, whatever comes our way, and just try to come

dawn hours with his licensed 9mm pistol.

Pistorius’ parole hearing was his second in the space of eight months. He was wrongly ruled ineligible for early release at a first hearing in March. That was due to an error made by an appeals court over when the sentence officially started.

Pistorius was initially convicted of culpable homicide — a charge comparable to manslaughter — for killing Steenkamp. That conviction was overturned and he was convicted of murder after an appeal by prosecutors. They also appealed against an initial sentence of six years for murder, and Pistorius was ultimately sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison.

Pistorius testified at his murder trial that he killed Steenkamp by mistake when he fired four times through the door thinking she was a dangerous intruder hiding in his bathroom in the middle of the night. Prosecutors argued that Steenkamp, a 29-year-old model and reality TV star, had fled to the toilet cubicle during a late-night argument and Pistorius killed her in a rage.

“I’ve told you before, I’m not worried about it.”

Commanders coach Ron Rivera on his job security back next week,” receiver Terry McLaurin said. “Players don’t make those decisions. Our job is to go out there and practice hard and perform better than we did.

So we didn’t hold up our end of the bargain on that.”

A late playoff run certainly seems unlikely for the Commanders. They would have to win their final five games just to avoid a seventh consecutive non-winning season — after going 8-8-1 last year and making the playoffs at 7-9 in Rivera’s debut.

AFC East leader Miami visits next week, and Washington then gets its bye week before playing at the Los Angeles Rams and Jets. The regular season wraps up at home against NFC West leader San Francisco and then versus the Cowboys in the finale.

“At the end of the day in the NFL, you have to do your job.

And as players, we’re not getting the job done, as coaches we’re not getting the job done,” veteran defensive tackle Johnathan Allen said. “So I don’t think anyone’s getting the job done.”

Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

obituaries

Billy Warren Cavenaugh Oct. 16, 1960 - Nov. 17, 2023 (age 63) WALLACE — Billy Warren Cavenaugh, 63, of Northeast Community, Wallace, NC, passed away on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Duke University Hospital.

He was born on Oct. 16, 1960, in New Hanover County; the son of Evelene Hatcher Cavenaugh of Wallace and the late Billy Holmes Cavenaugh.

Mr. Cavenaugh was a graduate of NC State and was a diehard Wolf Pack fan. He was a member of Corinth Baptist Church.

Surviving, along with his mother, is his best friend and wife of 35 years, Allison Murphy Cavenaugh of the home; his sons, Josh Cavenaugh and Will Cavenaugh, both of Wallace; sisters, Tammy Parker and husband, C.E. of Beulaville, and Paula Lee of Clinton; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends that loved Warren very much.

Warren was a loving husband and caring father, son, brother and uncle. He was a simple man who loved his wife and his family. Warren was super proud of his boys and was always there for them, whether coaching them in sports, being their scout leader or just being their Dad at home. Warren earned his Eagle Scout at a young age and later in life became Scout Master for Troop 35 in Wallace. Being a hard worker, Warren grew chickens for Nash Johnson for over 30 years and owned his own electrical business for 36 years. He was a kind and giving man who had a big heart for the homeless. He gladly served and supported the “Meet Me at The Bridge” ministry. Warren loved his family dearly but most of all, he loved the Lord. Warren will surely be missed but treasured memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral service was held on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, at Corinth Baptist Church with Pastor Phil Eakins and Pastor David Smith officiating.

The family received friends prior to the service at the church.

Burial followed in Cavenaugh Cemetery, NC Highway 41, Wallace, NC. Casket bearers were Bo Jones, Danny Sanderson, Kent Sanderson, Jeff Johnson, Courtney Swanson and Faison Sloan. The honorary casket bearer was Tommie Blanton.

Charles Wayne Miller March 30, 1971 - Nov. 17, 2023 (age 52) KENANSVILLE — Charles Wayne Miller, 52, of Kenansville, NC completed his earthly journey transitioning to eternal rest Nov. 17, 2023, at Kenansville Health & Rehabilitation.

A funeral service was held Tuesday Nov. 21, 2023, at Hawes Funeral Home Chapel in Warsaw, NC. Interment followed in Bryant-Miller Cemetery in Kenansville, NC.

Irving “IB” Berkley Sholar Aug. 9, 1945 - Nov. 22, 2023 (age 78) Irving “IB” Sholar died on Wednesday, Nov. 22. 2023, in ECU Duplin Hospital, Kenansville.

He is preceded in death by his spouse, Melva Sholar.

A funeral service was held Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Lighthouse Church, Wallace, with interment following at Lighthouse Church Cemetery, 539 Lighthouse Road, Wallace, NC. Survivors include sons, Daniel “Danny” Sholar (Kim), Wallace, Timothy “Tim” Sholar (Connie), Wallace; daughter, Kelly English (Allen), Wallace; sister, Juanita Maynard (Claude), Wallace; brothers, Durand Sholar (Betty), Leland, Wendell Sholar (Maxine), Wallace; grandchildren, Chrissy Strickland (Kyle), Jesse Sholar (Mary Beth), and Wesley Sholar (Katie); great-grandchildren, Kobe Vann, Jackson Vann, Michael Doyle, Emmett Doyle, Finley Sholar, Lily Sholar and Ansley Sholar; and a special friend of IB and the family, Peggy Brown.

George William Bryan Sr. Nov. 23, 1947 - Nov. 19, 2023 (age 75) George William Bryan, Sr., 75, died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023, in Kindred Hospital, Greensboro.

A funeral service was held Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, followed by a visitation at Community Funeral Home, Beulaville. A graveside service was held on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at Onslow Memorial Park, Jacksonville.

Survivors include spouse, Betty Bryan, Richlands; sons, George “Bill” Bryan, Jr. (Trena), Jacksonville, Devon Bryan (Anna), Richlands, and Curtis Bryan (Lucretia), Jacksonville; sister, Carol Madigan, Chinquapin; brothers, Thomas Bryan, Richlands, Johnny Walton, (Lesa), Tarboro, Danny Walton (Gail), Chinquapin; grandchildren, Chloe Thompson, Heather Bryan, Faith Ketchum, Erin Bryan, Katie Bryan, and Shane Bryan; and great-grandchild, McKinley Thompson.

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Ellen Williams Kennedy Sept. 11, 1930 - Nov. 20, 2023 (age 93) BEULAVILLE — Ellen Williams Kennedy, 93, died on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, in Kenansville Health & Rehab, Kenansville.

She is preceded in death by a son, Craig Kennedy Funeral service: was held Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, at Community Funeral Home, Beulaville.

Visitation took place one hour prior to the service. Interment followed at East Duplin Memorial Gardens, Beulaville.

Survivors include spouse, Raeford Kennedy, Beulaville; son, Andy Kennedy (Joy), Roanoke Rapids; grandchildren, Kathryn Slagle (Mark) and Carolyn Hennessey (Matthew); and great-grandchild, Larel Tyndall Hennessey.

Wesley Thomas Murrill

ROSE HILL - Darlene Corbett, 67, of Rose Hill, NC put her hand in the Master’s hand and entered into eternal rest Nov. 23, 2023 at Warsaw Health & Rehabilitation Center. Funeral service will be held at noon Nov. 30, 2023 at Hawes Funeral Home Chapel in Warsaw, NC. Visitation will be 11 a.m. to noon Nov. 30, 2023 (one hour prior to the service).

Darlene Corbett was born June 8, 1956 in Duplin County to Vernette Corbett and the late Thomas Carlton.

She was preceded in death by her sister, baby Sylvia.

Darlene received her education in the Duplin County Public School System and was employed as a healthcare provider for a number of years. Darlene was very dedicated to her job and loved all her patients.

Left to cherish her precious memories: mother, Vernette Corbett; two daughters, Sylvia D. Corbett and Bessie Lorraine Jackson (Siwatu); one son, William Corbett (Tanisha); two grandchildren, Eunicea Pearsall and Jakel Pearsall (very special to her); three sisters, Ann Swann, Jeanette Lane( Stephen), Joyce Graham (Russell); four brothers, Joseph Hill (Mary Katherine), James Corbett, David Corbett (Shelia) and Ray Corbett (Elizabeth); special person, William Dewitt; special son, James Fussell; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends who loved her dearly.

July 21, 1953 - Nov. 17, 2023 (age 70) Doretha Moore Mann, 70, placed her hand in the hand of the Master as she left behind the cares of this world on Nov. 17, 2023, at UNC Nash General Hospital, Rocky Mount NC. There was a Celebration of Life on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, at the Kenansville Eastern Missionary Baptist Association (KEMBA), Warsaw, NC.

AJune 9, 1935 - November 26, 2023 (age 88)

Dec.20, 1963 - Nov. 15, 2023 (age 59)

June 8, 1956 - Nov. 23, 2023 (age 67)

Doretha Moore Mann

Denver Eugene McMahan

Joel David Bonneville Jr.

Darlene Corbett

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Sept.15, 1958 - Nov.24, 2023 (age 65) WARSAW - Wesley Thomas Murrill, 65, of Warsaw, entered into his eternal rest in the early morning hours of November 24, 2023 at UNC Hospital Chapel Hill.

Funeral service is scheduled for noon on November 29, 2023 at Rainbow Missionary Baptist Church of Warsaw, NC. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until noon (one hour prior to the service). Interment will follow in the Ida HodgesMurrill Family Cemetery, Warsaw, NC.

Betty Houston Miller Sept. 30, 1938 - Nov. 22, 2023 (age 85) Betty Houston Miller, 85, died on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, at her home.

Graveside service was held on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, at East Duplin Memorial Gardens, Beulaville. Visitation took place at the graveside.

Survivors include: son, Charles “Chuck” Miller, Jr. (Jan), Hampstead; daughter, Kimberly Dopson, Wilmington; grandchildren, Melissa Dopson (Abhi), Christa Brown (Sarah), and Jesse Miller

BEULAVILLE — Joel David Bonneville, Jr. died Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, in Warsaw Nursing & Rehab.

Center, Warsaw.

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, followed by visitation, at Community Funeral Home, Beulaville. A graveside service was held on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, at the Edwards Family Cemetery, Beulaville Survivors include spouse, Dana England Bonneville, Beulaville; son, Nathan Bonneville, Beulaville; daughter, Brittni Grady, Beulaville; brother, Michael J. Bonneville (Kim), Beulaville; grandchildren, Brantley Grady, Levi Grady, Chandler Grady and Wesley Bonneville; nieces and nephews, Lauren Bonneville, Michael Bonneville, Jr., Eric England, Candace England and Shawn England.

Keel Byron Wilson Sept.11, 1959 - Nov. 25, 2023 (age 64) Keel Byron Wilson, 64, died on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at his home. Arrangements were incomplete as of press time.

Survivors include: son, Chris Wilson (Randa), Chinquapin; brothers, Donald Wilson, Rose Hill, and Kevin Wilson, Pinetops; grandchild, Brook Wilson, Chinquapin.

MAGNOLIA — Denver Eugene McMahan, 88, of Magnolia left this earthly life for his eternal rest on Sunday, November 26, 2023.

Denver was a US Army Veteran that served from 1958-1960. He was a dedicated and hard-working employee for Smithfield Foods for 32 years of faithful service. Denver was also committed to his community, where he served as Town Commissioner from 2015-2023 for the Town of Magnolia.

Denver was born on June 9, 1935 in Madison County, North Carolina and was the son of the late Walter T. and Lizzie Gregory McMahan. Denver was a devoted husband of 48 years to his wife, Eloise James McMahan. He is survived by daughters, Diana Mitchell and husband Buddy of Magnolia, Deborah Ackerman of Southport, Donna Ackerman of Southport, and Denise Ballinger and husband Ron of Staton, IA; grandchildren, Jennifer Stokes and husband Stratton of Magnolia, Andrew Mitchell and wife Kaitlyn of Clinton, Kelsey Foster of Pink Hill, Samantha Williams of Red Oak, IA; great-grandchildren, Bryce Mitchell, Olivia Mitchell, Sawyer Stokes, and Taylor Williams-Sparr.

Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. and Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at The Church at Pin Hook, with Pastor David Walker and Pastor Buddy Mitchell officiating.

The Church at Pin Hook is located at 1650 Deep Bottom Road, Wallace, NC 28466.

The family received friends at other times on November 27 and 28, and the evening of Nov. 29 at the home of Diana and Buddy Mitchell at 436 Brooks Quinn Road, Magnolia, NC 28453.

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Duplin Journal for Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Kenansville Christmas Parade ushers holiday season into Duplin The first Christmas parade of the 2023 holiday season is in the books, with the Kenansville-Duplin Christmas Parade held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, on Nov. 25.

The Kenansville-Duplin Chamber of Commerce sponsored the parade, which featured numerous fire trucks, local organizations, dance groups, clowns, 18-wheeler trucks and classic cars.

Grand marshal Stephen Williamson rode in on a 1931 Model A to start the parade off, and of course, Santa Claus rounded out the event by riding in on the back of a Kenansville Fire Department truck.

For more photos from the parade, see the Duplin Journal’s Facebook page.

PHOTOS BY ABBY CAVENAUGH | DUPLIN JOURNAL