Duplin Journal Vol. 10, Issue 7 by North State Journal

Duplin Journal

the BRIEF this week

Senior Services center holding annual shred-a-thon

Kenansville

Duplin County Senior Services is hosting a shred‑a thon event on Monday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants will have the chance to shred old documents such as old tax records, employment records, bank statements and anything else to reduce clutter in their homes and protect themselves against identity theft. The event will be at the side parking lot of the Duplin County Senior Services at 156 Duplin Commons Drive in Kenansville. Last year, seniors shredded 1,500 pounds of paper during the first shred a thon. For more information, call Duplin County Senior Services at 910 296 2140.

Enrollment open for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Kenansville

Duplin County Partnership for Children is still enrolling Duplin children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Call 910 296 2000 for more information on how to register your child.

Duplin offers new fraud detection notification service

Duplin County The Duplin County Register of Deeds Office provides a Fraud Detection Notification service to help citizens monitor for fraudulent activity. This free service alerts individuals via email when documents matching their names, such as powers of attorney or deeds, are filed. People can provide their name, email address, and up to five names to monitor by signing up. Those interested can register at duplinrod.com. For more information, call 910‑296‑2108.

Duplin County hosts annual Pinwheels for Prevention event

Kenansville In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, Guardian at Litem, Duplin County Department of Social Services and Duplin County Partnership for Children will be hosting a Pinwheels for Prevention event on April 16 at 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville to help bring awareness to child abuse in the community. Kickoff & Walk will occur at 9:30 a.m., with the annual Pinwheel Ceremony to follow inside the Ed Emory Building at 10 a.m. Light refreshments will be served after the ceremony.

State superintendent comes to Duplin

Mo Green’s stop at Wallace Elementary comes as part of his “Mo Wants to Know” tour

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

WALLACE — Duplin Coun

ty Schools welcomed North Carolina State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green to Wallace Elementary last week for a stu dent led tour demonstrating the district’s STEAMA model with dynamic, hands on learning ex periences. Green is currently visiting all eight regions of the state as part of his “Mo Wants to Know” tour to gather insight for the N.C. Department of Pub lic Instruction’s strategic plan

by holding listening and learn ing sessions at schools through out the state.

Students ambassadors and staff, alongside Board of Educa tion Chairman Brent Davis and Vice Chairman Reginald Ke nan, welcomed Green to Wal lace Elementary on Monday morning, where his tour began with a second grade classroom Open Court phonics lesson on vowel blends, followed by a col laborative pollination experi ment that demonstrated how bees transfer pollen. Green fielded questions from students

“We are grateful for the support of NCDPI and look forward to our continued partnership ensuring student success.”

Austin Obasohan

on topics such as school safe ty and emphasized the impor tance of hiring great teachers and leaders, providing schools with safety resources and teach ing students to be proactive in school safety.

Following a Living Litera

ture presentation by BETA stu dents that brought stories to life through creativity and dedica tion, Green spoke to members of the Drama Club about the pow er of the cultural arts and ex plained how theatre and music performances can help students express themselves and build confidence.

The tour next took the state superintendent to the school’s outdoor learning area, where students were engaged in an in tegrated literacy and math les son. AG Club students proudly showcased their work in plant ing, fertilizing, and caring for thriving flocks of chickens and

See GREEN, page A2

Beulaville addresses waterline break at monthly meeting

The town is under a boil water advisory while samples are tested

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Resi

dents raised concerns over the town’s ongoing water project at the board’s regular meeting on Monday evening following an April 7 break in the main line. The incident has placed Beu laville townsfolk under a boil water advisory until the samples

“We could get those notices back by Wednesday afternoon late, or it could be Thursday morning.”

Lori Williams, Town Manager

sent for testing have returned. On Monday afternoon, Town Manager Lori Williams issued advisories to inform the public about the break in the main wa ter line, which has resulted in pe riods of low water pressure and outages in the distribution sys tem. Residents were advised to boil all water used for human consumption — including wa ter used for making ice, brush ing teeth, washing dishes and preparing food, or to use bottled water. This precaution is neces sary as low or no pressure can in crease the risk of back siphonage, which may introduce bacteria into the water system.

od,” said Williams in response to a citizen’s inquiry. “We could get those notices back by Wednes day afternoon late, or it could be Thursday morning.”

Though residents expressed concern with a perceived lack of communication from the town regarding the break, Wil liams explained that two notic es had been sent: one when the leak began and another with ad ditional information, including the boil water advisory. She ad vised that a third notice will be

“Once they pull the sam ples and they have to be sent off, there’s a 24 hour testing peri

DCOM serves over 2,000 people monthly in Duplin County

Helping hands expand programs to meet growing community needs

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

WALLACE — Duplin Christian Out reach Ministries (DCOM) Crisis Cen ter plays a vital role supporting individu als and families facing crisis situations in Duplin County.

Jeralene Merritt, director of DCOM Crisis Center told Duplin Journal cli ents typically seek food, utilities and rent assistance.

“We have added a thrift store,” Mer ritt noted, adding that they have also in creased the financial support they provide to clients.

Merritt, who works part time at the center, shared that over 105 volunteers are involved in various programs, play ing a crucial role in DCOM’s operations. On service days, DCOM serves a signifi cant number of people, assisting between 10 to 28 clients within a span of 2.5 hours.

“We see, just in this office, on Tuesdays and Thursdays for two hours and a half, we can see anywhere from 10 to 28 cli ents,” said Merritt. “We serve over 2,000 clients in Duplin County in food every month.”

See BEULAVILLE, page A2

Merritt, who has been with DCOM since in 2020, has seen the organization evolve over the years, adding new pro grams and partnerships to meet the in creasing needs of the community. They have expanded their pantries from two to six locations and introduced programs, including the backpack ministry, money management assistance and support for the homeless.

The organization was initially inspired by local pastors who recognized the need for a central location to help those in cri sis, as many were going from church to church seeking assistance. DCOM was founded by pastors in Wallace who ob served this pattern and decided it was essential to establish a centralized hub $2.00

THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

State Superintendent Mo Green embarked on a student-led tour through Wallace

action as part of his “Mo Wants to Know” tour.

“Join the conversation” THURSDAY

Duplin Journal

www.duplinjournal.com

North State Media LLC

Neal Robbins Publisher

Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers

Ena Sellers News Editor

K.D. Beard Reporter

Michael Jaenicke Sports Editor

Loretta Carey Office Manager

Office Phone: 910 463-1240

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from page A1

sent regarding the boil water advisory once samples have re turned. Williams also thanked Public Works for their fast re sponse and hard work in reme dying the break.

“Within four hours, start to finish, water was restored back in town,” Williams explained.

Ricky Raynor, director of Pub lic Works for the town of Beu laville, advised the board that all waterlines should be installed within two weeks, noting that tie ins and water taps would need more time.

“As far as laying pipe, they hope to be done in a week and a half, two weeks tops,” said Raynor.

Raynor also addressed the concerns of Beulaville resident Karl Wilson regarding pipes that appeared to have been left stick ing out of the ground, explaining that sight pipes were necessary for engineers to record pipe loca tion and depth.

“That’s for our records; then those pipes will be pulled up and those holes will be filled in,” ad vised Raynor. “They’ve got until December, but they plan on be ing done well before that.”

The town is also working on modernizing its noise ordinance with updates to restrictions on mufflers, speakers, events, tim ing and complaint process as well as increased fines. Karl Mo bley, chief of police, indicated that these changes made the ex isting ordinance more specific, both civilly and criminally.

Beulaville Mayor Hutch Jones and Commissioner Del mas Highsmith expressed res ervations about the wording of the new ordinance and whether loopholes existed that could be exploited to circumvent it, spe cifically how officers intended to measure noise as town police presently lack the decibel meters the ordinance references. Ulti mately, the board decided to ta ble the ordinance until it had been revised.

Other matters of business in cluded scheduling two pub lic hearings for the board’s May meeting on the 2025 26 budget and a proposed 24 month mora torium on new vape and tobacco shops within town limits.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

MARRIAGE LICENSES

Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 24 marriage licenses for the month ending on March 31, 2025:

• Garry Rydell Teachey Jr., Wallace, and Karen Cristel Romero Perez, Wallace; Juan Pablo Ortiz Lopez, Rose Hill, and Reyna Marie Kenny, Rose Hill;

• Joaquin Morales Catatino, Beulaville, and Erika Reyes Ramirez, Beulaville;

• Isabel Alejandra Gamboa Burciaga, Pink Hill, and Juan Carlos Camacho Baez, Pink Hill; Brianna Lucille Bishop, Kinston, and Jeremy Jacob

GREEN from page A1

provided an enthusiastic ex planation of the intricate pro cess of candling eggs. The su perintendent also learned how students take ownership of their program by selling farm‑fresh eggs, ensuring sus tainability and real world fi nancial literacy in their agri cultural endeavors. Back in the STEAMA class room, Green observed a proud student’s coding project rep licate the classic puzzle game Tetris and a Robotics Club pre sentation in which students

SUNDAY APRIL 13

MONDAY APRIL 14

6 p.m. in downtown Mount Olive. Enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including the Tour de Pickle, beer and wine garden, pickle-eating contest, recipe contest, live music, car show, costume contest and the crowning of the Pickle Princess. Register for the Tour de Pickle by April 18. The festivities kick off on Friday, April 25 with the Cuke Patch 5K Glow Run at 8 p.m.

• Pet Friends of Duplin County will host a Rabies Clinic on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event will take place in the parking lot of First Baptist Church, located at 208 West Main St. in Wallace. Rabies shots are free for the first five dogs, cats and ferrets. There will be a charge of $5 for each additional pet. Duplin County Animal Services will be administering the vaccinations. Dogs must be leashed at all times, and cats and ferrets should be placed in crates or carriers. For more information, contact 910-271-4709.

April

The N.C. Cooperative Extension, Duplin County Center, will host a pressure canning workshop on April 29 at 10 a.m. at the Cooperative Extension office located at 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville. In this workshop, you’ll learn the science behind creating shelf-stable products and how to use a pressure canner to process jars of vegetables and meats for shelf stability. The cost is $10. To register, call 910 -296-2143.

Happening Monthly

The Board of County Commissioners meets the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at 224 Seminary St. in Kenansville. For information, call 910 -296-2100.

• The Beulaville town board meets the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at 508 East Main St. in Beulaville. For more information, call 910-298-4647.

The Town of Calypso meets at the council chambers the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at 103 W. Trade St. For information, call 919-658-9221.

• The Faison town board meets the first

Kamm, Kinston; Ignacio Jose Melara, Wallace, and Magdalena Suyapa Santos Juarez, Wallace;

• Kaitlyn Grace Farley, Raleigh, and Austin Drake Lanier, Beulaville; Chase Adam Kornegay, Mount Olive, and Rebecca Lynn Grady, Mount Olive; Yaiko Nikita Murray, Rose Hill, and Robert Randolph Watson, Rose Hill;

• Jillian Dara Ann Harvey, Kenansville, and Colby Gentry Holliday, Kenansville; Brandon Holcy Harper, Beulalville, and Samantha Jo Evans, Beulaville;

• Natalie Renee Starcher, Kenansville, and Christopher

shared their latest innovations. Wallace Elementary’s energetic Bullpup Bouncers rounded out the superintendent’s visit with a performance that highlight ed the importance of physical wellness through movement.

Journalism students took on the role of reporters, seizing on a real world career exploration opportunity to skillfully docu ment the day’s events. Utiliz ing photography, interviews and storytelling, students cap tured the excitement of the su perintendent’s visit and gained invaluable experience in media and communications.

TUESDAY APRIL 15

Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 110 NE Center St. in Faison. For more information, call 910-267-2721.

• The Economic Development Board meets the first Friday of the month at 7 a.m. at the Duplin County Airport Conference Room.

• The Duplin County NAACP holds its monthly meetings on the first Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church at 336 West Hill St. in Warsaw.

The Greenevers town board meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at 314 E. Charity Rd. For information, call 910-289-3078.

• 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. in Magnolia. For information, call 910-289-3205.

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 910-289-3159.

• The Duplin County Health Department is offering Diabetes Self Management Classes from 1-5 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 340 Seminary St. in 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. in Wallace. For more information, call 910 -285 -4136.

• Duplin County Beekeepers meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Duplin Extension Center. Friends of Horticulture meet the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Duplin Extension Center.

The Duplin County Airport Commission Board meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Duplin County Airport.

Brady Heath, Kenansville; Jose De Jesus Mora Martinez, Mount Olive, and Felicitas Mata Saucedo, Mount Olive;

• Hunter Louis Thurston, Mount Olive, andKaitlyn Elizabeth Hardee, Mount Olive; John Taylor Johnson, Wallace, and Natalie Hope Smith, Clinton;

• Everett Bernard Pannkuk IV, Wallace, and Shannon Nicole Paul, Cary;

• Sean Patrick Bankus, Kenansville, and Dorily Monserrat Angeles Gomez, Kenansville; Juan De Dios Guzman Gutierrez, Albertson, and

Duplin County Schools Su perintendent Austin Obasohan shared his appreciation as he reflected on Green’s visit.

“I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their dedication to innova tion and excellence. The en gaging learning experiences showcased today are a reflec tion of the work happening across our district every day,” said Obasohan, adding that through STEAMA, students are gaining the critical think ing, creativity and hands on skills they need to compete on a global scale.

Wuendi Lourdes Gonzalez Paz, Albertson; Destiny Lanae Crews, Beulaville, and Ramel Lamar Pratt, Beulaville;

• Paris Shaquille Bennerman, Rose Hill, and Afrika Latria Williams, Rose Hill;

Trevor James Earp, Wallace, and Samantha Marie Ramirez-Martinez, Wallace;

• Avery Burke Batchelor, Watha, and Juanita Gail Souther, Snow Camp;

• Madisen Alene Barwick, Seven Springs, and Shannon Keith Daniels, Albertson; Angel David MorenoVelazquez, Warsaw, and Leslie Lilibeth Portillo Guzman, Warsaw.

“On behalf of our Board of Education and entire school family, we thank Superinten dent Green, Dr. Metcalf and their staff for taking time out of their busy schedules to vis it Duplin County Schools. Spe cial thanks to Superintendent Green for giving Chairman Da vis and Vice Chairman Kenan the opportunity to share with him some concerns impacting students, educators, and the educational system,” he con tinued. “We are grateful for the support of NCDPI and look for ward to our continued partner ship ensuring student success.”

BEULAVILLE

A journey of service, dedication, community impact

Meet Sheriff Stratton Stokes

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

EACH WEEK, Duplin Jour nal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Du plin Journal invited Sheriff Strat ton Stokes for a Q&A session. As sheriff, Stokes plays a vital role in shaping law enforcement priorities and policies in Duplin County. His journey has been marked by steady growth, mak ing significant strides in modern izing the Sheriff’s Office, increas ing community engagement and addressing key issues like jail overcrowding.

His leadership approach is about fostering trust and collab oration, increasing operational efficiency and promoting trans parency. By embracing innova tion — through technology and improved resources — he is mak ing a direct impact on the lives of Duplin County residents.

In this Q&A, Stokes discuss es his vision for Duplin County, provides insights into some of the current challenges, and discusses how the integration of technolo gy is improving the overall wel fare of both officers and citizens. You will also learn about the dad behind the scenes and how he balances life and work.

What motivated you to pursue a career in law enforcement?

Growing up, I witnessed first hand the impact that caring can have on individuals and fam ilies, especially those who are vulnerable or in crisis. This in stilled in me a strong sense of re sponsibility to step up and make a difference.

I believe that everyone de serves to feel safe and supported, and it’s our duty, no matter what our role or profession, to be advo cates for those who cannot advo cate for themselves.

The opportunity to build rela tionships within the community, to be a source of guidance, and to foster trust is incredibly ful filling. Ultimately, my commit ment to justice and service drives me every day to ensure that our community thrives in a safe and supportive environment.

Can you tell us about your journey from serving as a jailer to being elected sheriff?

My journey has been both challenging and rewarding. I be gan my career in law enforce ment as a jailer at the Duplin County Detention Center, where I was responsible for supervising the inmate population and en suring their safety. This founda tional experience taught me the importance of maintaining or der and the human side of law enforcement.

From there, I was promoted to deputy sheriff, where I gained hands on experience responding to calls for aid and conducting investigations. Over the years, I earned promotions to senior pa trol deputy and then to sergeant, where I took on greater respon sibilities in managing shift oper ations and training new recruits.

Later I served as a special agent with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, where I worked major homicide, pub lic corruption, advanced crime scene and narcotics cases. Each of these roles allowed me to build strong relationships within the community and understand the diverse needs of our citizens and the challenges we face as a community.

Being elected sheriff has been a culmination of years of dedi cation and a deep commitment to the people of Duplin Coun ty. I strive to lead with integri ty, transparency and a focus on community engagement, ensur ing that the citizens and families who call Duplin home feel safe and supported.

In what ways does your background as a lawyer influence your approach in your role as sheriff?

My legal background allows me to navigate complex legal is sues with a nuanced understand ing of the law. It helps me ensure that our operations are compli ant and that we uphold the rights of all individuals. This perspec tive also aids in collaborating with the district attorney’s office and in developing policies that protect both the community and our officers.

How has technology enhanced law enforcement operations in Duplin under your leadership?

Under my leadership, tech nology has transformed our op erations, increasing efficiency, safety, public engagement and accountability.

The Sheriff’s Office website now offers easier access to inmate and incident reports online, promoting transparency and saving costs.

• An updated tip line and online portal encourage community participation in crime-solving by allowing anonymous submissions.

The acquisition of a DJI Matrice 350 Drone has enhanced our search and rescue capabilities.

• The Tek84 Body Scanner has improved security at the jail by detecting contraband amid rising opioid concerns. This advanced technology addresses concerns about overdoses and in-custody deaths, enhancing safety for both inmates and staff.

• A new state-of-the-art surveillance system enhances

monitoring capabilities, improving overall security and accountability.

• The acquisition of a Peacekeeper armored vehicle and DEA radio transmitter system enhance our Special Response Team’s readiness for high-risk situations.

The updated Guard 1 round system improves tracking and adherence to safety protocols, reducing liability.

• Conducting training in-house has saved approximately $50,000 annually, customizing programs for our department’s needs.

The acquisition and implementation of new software and hardware have enhanced the Sheriff’s Office investigative capabilities, ensuring swift analysis of evidence.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you first became sheriff and what achievements are you most proud of?

I encountered several signifi cant challenges. One of the most pressing issues was the mod ernization of our office through technology. Implementing new systems and tools to enhance ef ficiency and communication was crucial.

Another major challenge was the recruitment and retention of employees. The salaries offered were uncompetitive, making it difficult to attract quality can didates and keep existing staff motivated and engaged. This is sue not only affected morale but also impacted the overall effec tiveness of our law enforcement operations.

Additionally, I faced the chal lenge of overcrowding in our cur rent jail and a deteriorated fa cility. This situation not only strained our resources but also posed safety concerns for both inmates and staff. Moving for ward with the approval for a new jail was essential, but it required navigating complex regulatory, political and financial hurdles.

Despite these challenges, I am proud of several achievements since taking office. We success fully implemented new technol ogy systems that have improved our operational efficiency. We also initiated programs aimed at enhancing employee benefits and compensation, which have begun to improve our recruit ment and retention rates. Final ly, we made significant progress in addressing the overcrowding issue, with plans for the new jail

moving forward, paving the way for a safer and more effective fa cility. While there is still much work to be done, I believe we are on the right track to create a bet ter environment for both our law enforcement personnel and the community we serve.

You have accomplished a lot since becoming sheriff, to what do you attribute this success?

Success stems from a collab orative approach. I prioritize building a strong team and en gaging with community stake holders. By fostering open com munication and actively listening to the needs of both the depart ment and the community, we have been able to achieve signif icant outcomes together. As sheriff, I also attribute our successes to the unwavering sup port and collaboration of our community leaders, dedicated citizens, and the commitment of our county manager and coun ty commissioners. Each achieve ment, from securing approval for the new jail construction to en suring pay raises for our employ ees, reflects a collective effort.

State Rep. Jimmy Dixon has also played a vital role, advocat ing for our community’s needs and helping to channel resourc es where they are most needed, specifically building a new jail. Together, we have fostered an environment of trust and coop eration, which has allowed us to address pressing issues effective ly. It’s the shared vision and hard work of everyone involved that has driven these accomplish ments, and I am deeply grateful for their partnership.

You are very involved in the community. How do you balance work and family life?

Balancing work and family life, especially as a sheriff with two young children, requires in tentional planning and a strong support system. I prioritize my time between work and home. I also focus on my responsibil ities and community engage ment, ensuring that I am pres ent and responsive to the needs of our citizens.

Additionally, I lean on our community leaders and fellow sheriffs for support. They under stand the demands of the job and are always there for support and advice.

Ultimately, my family is my foundation, and I strive to be a role model for my children, demonstrating the importance of service, dedication and the value of community involvement while ensuring they feel loved and sup ported at home.

What are your top priorities for your next term if reelected?

As sheriff, my unwavering commitment to the safety and well being of our citizens remains my top priority. The drug epi demic is a pressing issue that con tinues to plague our nation, and it has not spared our communities.

I recognize the devastating ef fects addiction can have on fami lies and the fabric of our society. I will continue to allocate resourc es effectively to combat this cri sis, employing a multifaceted ap

proach and strict enforcement against those who choose to dis tribute harmful substances.

In order to uphold the high est standards of service, it is cru cial that we hire and retain the best employees possible with in the Sheriff’s Office. Our dep uties and staff are the backbone of our law enforcement efforts, and I am committed to provid ing them with the training, re sources and support they need to perform their duties with ex cellence. By fostering a positive work environment and invest ing in professional development, we can ensure that our team is equipped to offer the best ser vices to our citizens.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of effective law en forcement. I believe in the pow er of open dialogue between the Sheriff’s Office and the residents of Duplin. Together, we can build trust and strengthen our com munity bonds, creating a safer environment for everyone.

If reelected, my top priori ties will focus on enhancing pub lic safety, continued fight against the drug epidemic and ensuring that our Sheriff’s Office remains a model of excellence. I will work tirelessly to implement innova tive strategies to combat crime and improve our response to the needs of our community. By in vesting in our personnel, fos tering community relationships and tackling the challenges we face head on, I am confident that we can make Duplin a safer and brighter place for generations to come. Together, we will con tinue to build a safer communi ty where everyone can live, work, and raise a family.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with my family, grilling and taking trips. I also love reading news on cur rent events and miscellaneous articles about history, govern ment and science.

What was the last book you read?

A national bestseller, “The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell”.

Where is your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

Duplin County has a lot of family owned food establish ments that serve delicious food. There is no way I can pick just one. It really depends on what part of the county I’m in.

In your opinion, what is the best thing about Duplin County?

The best thing about Duplin County is undoubtedly the citi zens and families that call this place home. They are our most important asset and the heart of our community. Their resilience, kindness and commitment to one another create a strong and supportive environment. It’s in spiring to see how families come together to uplift each other, whether through local events, volunteer work or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need. This sense of unity and be longing is what truly makes Du plin County a special place to live and serve.

COURTESY PHOTO

Sheriff Stratton Stokes with his wife, Jennifer, and their two sons, Sawyer and Gage.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Ensuring you are connected and your rights are protected

Gun-grabbing politicians in states, like California, have implemented an excessive excise tax on firearms and ammunition purchases.

AS YOUR REPRESENTATIVE, I am committed to defending your constitutional rights and advancing policies that benefit your family, small business and community.

Ensuring your Second Amendment freedoms are protected is one of my top priorities. I have proudly championed H.R. 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, not just in this Congress but every Congress since being elected. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation would provide nationwide concealed carry reciprocity, so each state’s concealed carry license is valid in every other state.

Currently, there is a confusing hodgepodge of laws surrounding state issued concealed carry licenses that vary from state to state. Some states have stricter laws that can make unknowing criminals out of lawful license holders for a simple mistake, like a wrong traffic turn, when carrying a handgun.

H.R. 38 would protect law abiding citizens’ rights to conceal carry and travel freely. Your Second Amendment rights do not disappear when crossing invisible state lines, and my legislation guarantees it.

The House Judiciary Committee, led by

Chairman Jim Jordan (R Ohio), recently voted for my H.R. 38 to move forward and get a full vote on the House floor. This effort brings us one step closer to getting my legislation passed through Congress and signed into law, and I will keep working with President Donald Trump and my colleagues until we get the job done.

I also recently introduced the Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act to ensure law abiding gun owners can exercise their right to keep and bear arms without fear of being financially penalized. For years, gun grabbing politicians in states, like California, have implemented an excessive excise tax on firearms and ammunition purchases. This unconstitutional and unfair burden is nothing but a scheme to price Americans out of their right to keep and bear arms, and my legislation will put a stop to it.

Another one of my top priorities for folks in our region and communities across the country is to bridge the digital divide. As chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, I am focused on advancing commonsense policies that will deliver

SNAP shouldn’t subsidize slurpees

Democrats’ alarmism is hard to take seriously.

EVEN CHICKEN LITTLE would be exhausted trying to keep up with what Democrats claim President Donald Trump wants to do.

Just look at the news. On Tuesday, Rep. Yvette Clarke (D N.Y.) said that Republican cuts to SNAP “are the difference between life and death for the many in the communities that we serve.” SNAP is the rebranded food stamps program.

Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D N.Y.) has accused Republicans of setting “in motion the largest cut to Medicaid in American history.” Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D Calif.) said Trump’s work to dismantle the Department of Education “is a direct attack on America’s students, teachers and families.”

To understand why this is fearmongering, consider a recent trip I made to 7 Eleven. My wife and I wanted to buy our kids Slurpees after baseball practice. (Shhh ... don’t tell Robert Kennedy Jr.)

In between my frantic efforts to keep my kids from overfilling their cups, I noticed a sticker on the machine.

“All Slurpee cups are EBT eligible,” it read.

EBT stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer. It’s how people spend their SNAP benefits at stores. There was a similar sign on the soda machine. The U.S. Department of Agriculture website confirms that the signs are accurate.

Taxpayers are subsidizing Slurpees and sodas.

This is wasteful. Food stamps are supposed to help low income individuals ward off hunger, not satiate their sweet tooth. But imagine the left’s reaction if you proposed making junk food ineligible for food stamps.

They’d claim that you wanted to cut benefits from the poor. That you wanted to cut the program. That you wanted to stigmatize poor people.

This isn’t speculation. House Republicans are currently pushing a bill to do just that, and those are some of the attacks they’re facing.

Those attacks may have a grain of truth, but they’re deeply misleading. If Republicans pass a ban on SNAP paying for junk food, hunger won’t increase one bit. The biggest impact may be a reduction in diabetes, which low‑income Americans are more likely to develop. That could save the Medicaid program money, but then Democrats would likely claim Republicans are cutting the program.

Once you see this pattern, Democrats’ alarmism is hard to take seriously.

The Department of Education has been around for decades. Aside from some bright spots with charter schools, public education is generally terrible. Just because the name says “education” doesn’t mean the department is doing much to improve how kids learn.

Now, if I haven’t convinced you, I

much‑needed results.

Right now, too many families, farmers and small businesses don’t have access to broadband. While the Biden administration implemented a broadband deployment program, “BEAD,” it was riddled with burdensome, unnecessary requirements that hindered deployment. In fact, not a penny of the program’s federal funding has been put toward actual deployment for even one household.

This is unacceptable. That’s why, as chairman, I recently led members of my subcommittee in introducing legislation to ensure timely and accessible broadband deployment by cutting red tape and streamlining regulations.

Our rural communities need to be fully connected, and my legislation will help do that.

Whether it is safeguarding your Second Amendment rights or ensuring reliable broadband access, I will continue fighting for policies that protect your freedoms and improve everyday lives.

Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House.

challenge you to do this: Open the calendar app on your phone. Create an appointment for July 15, 2026. In the notes section, write down three things you think will happen as the result of Republican actions.

Some examples: Republicans will cut SNAP benefits and 100,000 people will die of starvation. Trump will cut Medicaid and people will have worse health outcomes, including 50,000 more heart attack deaths. Gutting the Department of Education will reduce student achievement by five percentage points. A note: Look beyond the funding level of a certain program and consider outcomes. Government programs are supposed to be a means to an end, not just a money pit.

If you think Trump has dictatorial aspirations, set a reminder for November 2026 or 2028. Write down if you think Trump will cancel elections or run for a third term.

Make sure to also write down if someone has made this claim.

When that date comes, look around and see what happened. Perhaps Trump has led America into unprecedented levels of starvation, illness and ignorance. Or perhaps Democrats have staked their electoral success on scaring people like you. Either way, you won’t have to take my word for it.

Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

DCS students excel at NC Beta Convention

Students were awarded certificates recognizing their success at a special ceremony

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Students from several schools across the county were honored in a spe cial ceremony last week at the Ed Emory Auditorium in Kenans ville. This recognition was part of the Board of Education’s monthly meeting, celebrating participants in the annual North Carolina State Beta Convention, the Du plin County Schools STEAMA Fair and the Beyond the Books events.

The elementary, middle and high school participants were awarded certificates commemo rating their excellence by Nicole Murray, chief academic officer for STEAMA Curriculum and Instruction/Professional Devel opment, during last Tuesday’s ceremony.

“These academic competi tions have challenged our stu dents to excel, and the students we will honor tonight rose to this challenge and earned the highest honor,” said Murray.

The annual state level Beta Convention in February saw competition from every school in Duplin County, with students winning 115 Top Five awards along with the eligibility to com pete at the national convention in Florida this summer.

“To be in the Beta club, stu dents have to have academic ex cellence, excellent character, and they have to have a mind and heart for service,” said Murray, adding that these students had risen above thousands of other competitors to bring home their first place prizes.

DCOM from page A1

where individuals could re ceive help. This location allows churches and community mem bers to contribute funds while keeping track of individuals in crisis and assisting them more effectively.

“Our primary focus is on crisis intervention,” Merritt explained, emphasizing that individuals seeking assistance must provide proof of their crisis. It was with this understanding that pas tors and local community mem bers came together to establish DCOM.

Merritt began volunteering there after retiring from the De partment of Correction, where she served for 30 years.

While volunteering, the orga nization sought an executive di rector, and she applied. Merritt was hired on July 5, 2020.

DCOM remains sustain able through grants, donations from churches and contribu tions from individuals. The or

K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Students recognized for their success at the North Carolina State Beta Convention pose with their certificates at the Ed Emory Auditorium in Kenansville.

“These academic competitions have challenged our students to excel.”

Nicole Murray

Duplin County Schools also celebrated the district winners of the county’s annual STEAMA fair competition who had been invited to represent the county at the Southeast Regional Science and Engineering Fair in Febru ary. The competition required students to present their original STEAMA projects completed us ing either the engineering design process or the scientific meth od, with many Duplin County students advancing to the state level.

“Each one of these students that we’re recognizing tonight for the STEAMA fair received some sort of reward and recognition at

ganization also generates funds through its thrift store. Merritt is responsible for writing grants to ensure that the organization can continue to meet its clients’ needs.

While there are no new pro grams planned for the near fu ture, Merritt hopes to one day create a homeless shelter in Du plin, as there is a significant need for such services.

Volunteers and communi ty partnerships are essential to DCOM’s success, and the exec utive director is committed to ensuring that the organization continues to serve those in need effectively and sustainably.

DCOM operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering a vari ety of services to those in need. These services include food as sistance, emergency transporta tion, help with rent and utilities, as well as providing diapers, hy giene items, and packages for the homeless.

The organization assists cli ents who are at risk of eviction

the regional level,” said Murray. “We were very proud; our stu dents won more awards than any other district.”

This year was the county’s first Beyond the Books event, a program designed to encourage students to engage with books in innovative ways. Lindsay Skid more, director of 6 8 curricu lum and digital innovation for Duplin County Schools, present ed awards for Best in Show for each category at last Tuesday night’s meeting.

“These amazing students blew us away with their creativity and their critical thinking and their connections with books,” said Skidmore.

Following the presentation, members of the board offered thanks, congratulations and en couragement to the students in recognition of their accomplish ments and to their parents for their continued support.

“The time you spend in these clubs, participating in these events and getting to this lev

or have received a disconnection notice from utility providers, but individuals must demonstrate their crisis to receive support.

In addition, DCOM offers food for children over the week ends, especially aimed at fami lies experiencing food insecuri ty. They prepare more than 250 backpacks filled with food each week for local students.

While DCOM previously pro vided assistance with minor home repairs, such as fixing bro ken steps or windows, this pro gram has been paused due to a shortage of volunteers. Also, while the mobile pantry for mi grant workers is no longer in op eration, there is a smaller mobile pantry serving elderly individu als in need of food.

Merritt told Duplin Journal that DCOM collaborates with pastors who provide counseling services to clients in need.

One particularly memorable story for Merritt involves a do mestic violence survivor who, with DCOM’s assistance, was

ITEMS NOT TO BRING TO SHRED:

el does not go unnoticed,” said Chairman Brent Davis, who ex pressed the importance of sup port from parents, family and the community to the success of the school system, as well as the contributions of staff that work behind the scenes to get the stu dents to where they need to be.

According to Vice Chairman Reginald Kenan, the success of these students is evidence that Duplin County continues to lead the state in education. He also thanked the parents and guard ians assembled for their support.

“We really appreciate your trust. Thank you for letting us add something to the lives of your children and grandchildren.” Pamela Edwards spoke direct ly to the students in her remarks, indicating the importance of rec ognizing those who excel in their classwork as well as in athletics.

“Everything you can do and accomplish in school, we appre ciate it as adults,” said Edwards.

“Thank you for what you’re doing. You are our future.”

able to escape an abusive situa tion and find a safe place to live with her children.

“She was in one of those mo bile homes, and it was four chil dren. And she was running from her husband because of abuse. ... We were able to find a place for her to park her RV, and we were able to give her food and some of the other needs that she needed,” she explained.

“I always remember that. … She was so very thankful. Some times people are not thankful. Sometimes they’re wounded for the wrong reason. They might not tell you the truth, but it was something about her and those children that really touched me, and I remember that.”

The organization strives to maintain a comfortable and wel coming environment where cli ents feel safe to seek help. Trust and privacy are fundamental to DCOM’s success, allowing cli ents to rely on the organization for support without fear of judg ment or breach of confidentiality.

Cans, Bottles, Food/Wrappers, Thick Material, Copier/ Printer Cartridges, Corrugated Cardboard, Nonrecyclable Materials, Plastics, Biohazard Materials, Medical Waste, & 3-Ring Notebooks.

Applications open for Ag Disaster Crop Loss Program

North Carolina Applications are open through May 4 for agricultural producers impacted by natural disasters, with a 45 day extension granted in certain circumstances. The North Carolina General Assembly established the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program on March 19 through the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025, a one time assistance program for agricultural producers who suffered verifiable losses from any declared agricultural disaster in 2024, including Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Debby, Potential Cyclone 8 and drought. Nearly $311 million has been appropriated for the program, with $200 million for verifiable losses from Hurricane Helene and $111 million for those resulting from all other agricultural disasters in 2024. For more information, visit ncagr. gov/agdisaster.

N.C. Department of Insurance warns of Medicare scams

North Carolina In response to an increase in scamming attempts, the North Carolina Department of Insurance has cautioned Medicare recipients against providing their information to callers offering plastic Medicare cards as it could compromise their identity. The NCDPI advised that Medicare only offers and approves of using a paper card and asks that anyone who has recently given out their information to receive a plastic card contact the Senior Medicare Patrol team by calling 855 408 1212. For more information, visit ncshiip.com.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 a.m.—1:00 p.m.

Duplin Events Center 195 Fairgrounds Dr., Kenansville, N.C.

at 910-296-2140

CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

First weekend in May In Historic Downtown Wallace

DUPLIN SPORTS

Blue Devils’ ‘finishing details’ key to ECC win over Panthers

South Lenoir rallied for three six-inning runs to sweep the regular series against East Duplin

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — East Duplin right-hander Kyle Kern gave everything he had on the mound last Friday during a 6-5 loss to South Lenior.

Recovering after giving up three runs in the first inning, the senior put doughnuts on the scoreboard for the next four frames before reaching the pitch count maximum of 105.

He left with a 5-3 lead after the Panthers rallied for four runs in the fourth against Matthew Rhodes.

The Blue Devils rallied for three runs in the sixth via five errors and two walks as a nightmare ending to a game in which they played solid baseball and battled.

The setback put more sepa-

ration in the ECC between the Panthers (7-6, 5-3) and South Lenoir (10-2, 6-1), North Lenoir (10-3, 6-0) and Southwest Onslow (9-4, 6-3), who nearly upset North Lenoir on Friday. These three teams stand above the Panthers as they head into their second rotation against conference schools.

Yet it was an epic battle with five distinct phases.

The first inning saw four runs cross the plate. Kern and Rhodes were the focus from the second to fifth inning. Both teams followed with rallies to take the lead. Braden Barnett worked a perfect seventh for the save.

Kern cruises after slow start

Kern, who is 3-1 with an ERA of 0.92, gave up two hits while striking out 10, was so dominant that he overcame an unusually high number of walks — seven. Both hits came in the first

inning. Yet he never showed any sign of distress, as his facial expressions stay the same through a game.

He’s a confident pitcher who works the strike zone well and stays with his regiment and game plan against hitters.

The senior makes it look far easier and less pressure-filled than it is on the hill. He proved that in the fourth when an error loaded the bases, and he calmly induced a weak ground ball to the right side of the infield to end the threat.

But the Blue Devils took him out early by working pitch counts.

Hits, sac fly, strategic moves push across four runs

All things considered, the fourth inning was about as good as it has been this spring for the Panthers as they got to

Brown shuts down Devils as Panthers push to top of East Central mountain

Rebecca Beach’s late RBI is all hurler Morgan Brown needs as ED beats SL 1-0

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Pitching isn’t everything in softball, but try climbing the ladder without an ace in the circle.

Enter Morgan Brown, who stepped up last Friday to outduel South Lenoir’s Jade Sasnett as East Duplin broke the Blue Devils’ five-game winning streak while also securing the top spot in the East Central 2A Conference with three games left on its league slate.

Brown and the Panthers lost both games last season in a feisty rivalry that will continue next season when both are in the different conferences. The setbacks pushed ED to a third-place finish. ED wound up 12-10 and 9-3 in the loop via scheduling competitive programs.

Leadoff hitter Parker nabs eight bases, scores winning run

Sasnett overwhelmed the Panthers’ bats, striking out

nine through four innings.

She hit Karsyn Parker with her first pitch but whiffed Kinsey Cave, Rebecca Beach and Callier Mewborn to end the threat.

She overcame an error in the second with three K’s. Two strikeouts the next inning left Parker at second base, though she got the Panthers’ first hit.

Two more strikeouts in the fourth eased her past a walk of Brown.

Parker ripped the hardest ball of the night down the right field line with one out in the fifth, and East Duplin head coach Greg Jenkins played his hand by having Cave sacrifice her to second with Beach in the on-deck circle.

The Panthers catcher fought off several pitches before popping the ball into shallow right field. It was hardly a power stroke, yet just as effective.

Brown was left at first base after her one-out single in the sixth, but more than did her part in the circle, though she logged her outs in a different way than Sasnett.

The Panthers senior, who struck out only six, induced ground balls and fly balls that

Payton Tyndall struck out 10 and drove in two runs as WRH beat JK for the seventh straight time

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Payton Tyndall has taken her lumps this season as a first-year pitcher.

The sophomore overcame a rough beginning and has shown great progress in her last four starts as Wallace-Rose Hill went 2-2.

She was on cue and on course last Friday when the Bulldogs beat James Kenan 9-3.

Tyndall struck out 10 and

walked just one in the circle and drove in two runs.

Senior Ta’Nyia Powell, junior Jansley Page and freshman Keyonna Thomas all had an RBI as WRH (3-8, 2-4) beat its Duplin County rival for the seventh straight time.

Jourdan Joe belted a home run for the Tigers (4-7, 3-4).

Tyndall, who stepped into the circle after Lexi Kennedy left for Wake Tech, got help from her teammates as the Bulldogs played errorless softball.

“We’ve playing pretty well right now,” said assistant coach Kevin Williams. “Payton’s throwing the ball much better against some good teams (Trask, South Lenoir).

“I thought Ava (Jones) pitched well for them (JK). Jansley’s run-scoring hit was big and so was the sac fly by Keyonna.” WRH took a 3-0 lead in the first inning and pushed It to 4-0 in the second.

Then Joe went yard to make it 4-3. “We talked about walking her but figured the worst thing that would happen would be we would be a run head,” Williams said. “It was one of Payton’s rare misses.”

WRH responded with five runs in the next frame and has a 22-4 lead in the series since 2012, the lone season in which

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED senior outfielder Calvin Harper is tied for second in hits on the Panthers with second baseman Jack Tuck.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Jansley Page slides to avoid a tag. The WRH junior leads her team in hitting with a .448 average.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL ED catcher Rebecca Beach went the opposite way to drive in the only run of the game.

See SOFTBALL, page B3

Rebels bounce back to cage Wildcats, Cougars

North Duplin recovered from a pair of one-run losses to squash Hobbton and Neuse Charter

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — The North Duplin baseball team has shown it can respond to setbacks.

Twice the Rebels have shown fight by responding to consecutive losses with winning streaks.

Last week, wins over two Carolina 1A Conference schools took some of the sting of a 2-1 loss to Rosewood and an extra-inning 5-4 loss to 2A East Duplin.

North Duplin (6-5, 5-1) won three straight after consecutive losses two more 2A schools — South Lenoir and Clinton.

First-year coach Cody Langston’s club scored 21 runs and gave up four in triumphs last week over Hobbton and Neuse Charter to remain on the heels of Rosewood (12-5, 7-0) for the top spot in the CC. Rosewood captured the title last season. ND won it the previous two seasons.

The Rebels used a “big-inning” approach in both wins.

North Duplin scored five times in the second frame and six times in the seventh to dust Neuse Charter 15-0 in Smithfield. The Rebels slipped by the Cougars 7-6 to start their league slate on March 18.

Garris Warren singled and doubled three times and had three RBIs to raise his average to .371.

Kayden Bowden (.320) got three hits in four trips and drove in four runs.

Noa Quintanilla (.348) homered, and Wesley Holmes (.375), Hunt Pate, Vance Carter, Wesley Holmes (.375) and Garrett Stevens all drove in a run.

Freshman Cole Grady gave up one hit while striking out seven and not allowing a walk in five innings. Pate yielded one hit in the final two innings. The win came on the second night of a four-game road trip.

Quintanilla, Bowden and Holmes each drove in two runs last Tuesday in a 10-4 win over Hobbton.

Bowden and Holmes were both 3 for 3. Quintanilla had two hits and knocked in two runs. Pate added a run-scoring single. Frosh Noah Price had two hits and scored three times.

North Duplin went in front 3-2 after one inning and added three runs in the fifth and sixth.

Warren and Pate each had two hits on Monday against the Panthers.

The Rebels have rematches against Lakewood, East Duplin and Union this week.

Revenge: Bulldogs stump Pats

Walllace-Rose Hill was in front of American Leadership Academy-Johnston 4-3 in the sixth inning and probably feeling good about itself after falling to the Patriots 13-11 on opening day.

A four-run seventh increased the Bulldogs’ happiness, as Caden Gavin, Khalil, Devon Sloan, Hayden Lovette and Kaiden Lui all collected a pair of hits. Lui scattered six hits over six innings, striking out 12 and walking two.

Davis Barnette gave up a hit but had two strikeouts to close it out in the seventh.

Lui was coming off a game in which he hit a single and homer when WRH fell 10-2 last Tuesday to South Lenoir (10-2, 6-1, the third-place team in the ECC.

WRH (4-8, 1-5) was to play first-place North Lenoir (10 -3, 6-0) early this week, host Hobbton on Wednesday and then travel on Friday to face East Duplin (7-6, 5-2).

Cougars’ late suge sinks Wildcats

Wildcats senior pitcher Lucas Roberts held Croatan to five hits and two runs over 51/3 innings, but the Cougars scored three runs in the final two frames to beat Richlands 6-0.

While holding down Croatan, Owen Woodruff completed his assignment by scattering three hits, whiffing seven and walking just one hitter. Jacob Flemming, Ashton Courdle and Hayden Turner were the lone ’Cats to log a hit off Woodruff, who lowered his ERA to 2.24.

The Tuesday setback was followed by a 10-0 loss to West Carteret (7-5, 4-1), the Wildcats’ fourth Coastal Conference blemish in five games.

Caleb Simco singled and Jaden Goins singled and walked as the only baserunners against Woodruff.

Crusaders’ three Smiths set the tone

What’s in a name?

Perhaps not much, but Harrells Christian Academy would nonetheless like a reorder of “Smiths,” the last name to the Crusaders three best offensive players this spring.

Juniors Drake Smith and Jesse Smith and senior Dawson Smith.

All three hail from the Clinton area. Drake and Dawson are brothers, though they are not related to Jesse.

Except when it comes to being bashing baseball brothers.

Drake Smith leads HCA with a .346 average. Brother Dawson is at .346, while Jesse has inched his way to .308.

Senior Connor Casteen is at .278, but the HCA team mark of .227 has made it tough against a difficult schedule. HCA (1-7, 1-2) fell to Faith Christian (3-1) and Wayne Christian (11-6) last week.

Drake Smith and Reid Strickland got the only hits against the Patriots.

Dawson Smith and Dawson Smith each poked a hit versus the Eagles.

HCA’s 10 errors in the two games played into the equation. The Crusaders were outscored 55-28 through eight games.

Four-year starting pitcher

Makenzie Goins has Richlands moving toward a conference title and a deep run in the 3A playoffs

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

RICHLANDS — Is it the year of Makenzie Goin?

All signs point that direction for her and Richlands, which took a major step to winning the Coastal 3A Conference last week by slipping past previously unbeaten West Carteret 3-2 in a 10-inning win last Thursday in on the Wildcats’ diamond.

Makenzie struck out 21, allowing two hits and two unearned runs in a 119-pitch performance to outduel Caitlin Dumarce, who whiffed 16, yielded three hits and walked five.

Makenzie, a senior, did not walk a Patriot and her team did not commit an error. The Patriots had three fielding miscues Goin, LeNayah Jackson and Cameron Cubas drove in runs. Goin doubled and Cubas legged out a triple as the lone extra-base knocks for the Wildcats (13-4, 5-0), who won their seventh in a row.

Cami Teal walked twice, was hit by a pitch and scored a pair of runs.

The win coupled with a 2-0 triumph over Croatan three days earlier put Richlands atop of the Patriots (12-1, 4-1) atop of the conference standings.

Saylor Gray went yard on Goin in the fourth and Ella Grace Rodriguez tripled and scored in the seventh to tie it at 2-2.

Goin limited the Bulldogs to one hit last Tuesday, whiffing 15 and yielding three walks Jackson and Jordan Meece had RBI hits in the fifth to break the scoring deadlock.

Cubas had two hits, and Goin, Piper Turner and Addi Andrews added singles. And an errorless fielding day was needed to support Makenzie, the ace of the Richlands staff since her freshman season.

She threw 117 innings and whiffed 219 with an ERA of 0.84 as a frosh, following it up with 951/3 frames and 186 strikeouts as a sophomore.

Last spring, she had 166 punchouts in 941/3 innings and a 1.48 ERA, which is at 1.20 this season in 872/3 innings. Goin has 160 strikeouts against the

best competition she’s faced during her career at Richlands.

In 395 frames, she is 38-15 overall, with 731 strikeouts and just 43 walks, 13 of which came this season.

She’s a .350 career hitter.

Richlands has beaten quality teams from Midway (102), Washington (11-3) and East Duplin (8-5 and leading the ECC at 7-1) while splitting with South Lenoir (7-4, 5-1 ECC).

The Wildcats also have wins

against Jacksonville and South Central.

Richlands, 8-1 on its home diamond, has five league games remaining, including road games against Dixon and West Carteret.

The Wildcats’ lone two league setbacks last spring were to Coastal champ Dixon.

Winning a conference title would also put the Wildcats in a better seeding position for the 3A playoffs. Richlands bowed

out in the second round the previous two seasons.

Yet it’s not all about Goins. Jackson is hitting .435. with 12 RBIs and leads the club in runs.

Andrews is at .309 with five doubles. Turner has 12 RBIs and Cubas leads the team in walks with nine and is second in runs. Richlands faces Swansboro (7-7, 1-4) early this week and motors to Newport on Thursday to face Croatan (6-4, 2-3). Rebels roll past Panthers, Wildcats

North Duplin’s two-win week featured big hits and 28 runs. Lilly Fulghum hit a double, homer and drove in four runs and Addy Higginbotham, Ady Spence and Marissa Bernal had three hits apiece during a 12-7 win over East Duplin last Monday. Abigeal Norris added two hits as the Rebels lashed 18 hits. Spence and Fulghum each went three innings in the circle. The Rebels (7-1, 4-0) smacked Hobbton 16-1 the next day. ND was slated to travel to Beulaville on Wednesday of this week for a rematch against the Panthers, who beat South Lenoir on Friday.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Garris Warren has stepped up on the mound and at the plate for North Duplin this season.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Lilly Fuighum makes a home run trot against East Duplin.

Panthers booters take down 2 foes despite sluggish play

East Duplin fought through its struggles to polish off the Rebels and Blue Devils

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — The East Duplin soccer team has been trying all season to play consistently enough to put together a long winning streak.

Injuries have been a factor, as has the late arrival of a few players from the basketball team that advanced to the fourth round of the 2A playoffs.

The Panthers ended the week on a modest two-game surge after having had three- and two -game streaks this season as part of its 7-7-2 mark.

East Duplin punched North Duplin 5-0 last Monday and played well enough to push by South Lenoir (4-8, 1-4) on Friday 2-0.

The victories came after a disappointing 4-0 loss to Southwest Onlsow, which pushed East Duplin into second place in the ECC.

“For a number of reasons, we just haven’t gotten it together to play like I feel we can,” said Panthers’ coach Joey Jones.

Anamarie Rodriguez scored in the first half last Friday in Beulaville against the Blue Devils.

Anastan Holley put in an insurance goal in the second half. Rodriguez, who scored a freshman-record 20 goals last spring, hit for a pair against the Rebels. Holly added another, and Joselin Mata-Agullar and Isla Miller joined into by finding the back of the net in Calypso.

The Panthers host the Rebels on Wednesday and travel to face Wallace-Rose Hill on Friday in Teachey.

Rebels fall to two CC foes

North Duplin, 5-4 overall, 4-2 in Carolina 1A Conference play, lost its next two matches after falling to the Panthers.

The Rebels were beaten 4-1 by Hobbton and Neuse Charter 3-0 and have scored just one time in their past four match-

SOFTBALL from page B1

her defense sent Bule Devils hitters from the plate to the bench.

She fanned one hitter in the first two innings, getting two pop outs and two fly ball outs.

She induced a popout to leave Rylan Wade at second base in the third and a popout of Jersey Sasnett in the fourth to leave runner at first and second base.

The hardest ball hit off Brown all night came in the fifth, but Cave snatched a bullet-line drive at second base as if she detected a rocket was in her orbit.

In the sixth, catcher Beach made a lunging catch of a foul ball with a runner on second base. Carrly Boone followed with a single, but Brown whiffed Kylie Smith to end the threat.

Brown took down the Blue Devils in order in the seventh via another nifty snag of a line drive by Cave and a squeezed pop fly by Leighton Davis at third base.

es, as Tristen Stemmler got her ninth goal of the season against the Wildcats. Both were road losses.

It has dropped North Duplin into a tie with Hobbton and Union for second place in the loop, a game in front of the Cougars, who the Rebels whipped 3-1 on March 18 in Calypso.

ND also squares off against Lakewood (1-11, 1-5) and Union (4-5, 4-2) this week, with the latter match coming on Friday on the Rebels’ pitch.

Tigers bomb Hawks as a prep for three tough matches

A week after thrashing North Lenoir, the James Kenan soccer team is jumping headfirst into the fire of Southwest Onslow (10-2-2, 7-0) early this week and host unbeaten Lejeune (10-0-1)

“Everyone was hyped today,” Brown said. “You could feel the mood. I was placing all my pitches well, and our defense played great. It was nice to finally beat them, especially after the last game we played against them.”

Brown said she fought through an injury she suffered against North Duplin on March 31. Jenkins said starting here was a day-of-the-game decision.

“My leg felt bad when I was running the bases, but I tried to shake it off,” said the senior, who is also one of the Panthers’ best hitters, as shown by her getting on base three times against South Lenoir.

Parker, meanwhile, was nothing but a pest to both Sasnett and the Blue Devils. She also reached second base in all three of her at-bats.

Panthers in the hunt

The win helped the Panthers

and 34-goal scorer Scarlett McLean, who had 53 scores as a freshman last spring.

Katherine Enamorado had a hat trick in the 9-1 triumph over North Lenoir, with Aleyah Wilson and Noilin Rodriguez each coming through with a pair.

Joselyn Gomez and Arley Patino added scores.

Karla Diaz, who is second on JK in scoring with 14 goals, added a pair of assists. Enamorado also had two assists and leads the Tigers in goals with 27.

“We were a little sluggish at times with our passing early on,” said JK coach Kenny Williams. “I think it was partially because we’ve played only once the last couple weeks because of cancellations. It took a little while for us to get our flow going. Hopefully, we’ll be better next week against three tough opponents.”

forget about close losses to the Richlands (2-0 and 4-3), West Carteret (5-4), who lost for the first time this spring last week when the Wildcats beat the Patriots. And it also helped ease to pain of a 8-6 setback to the Blue Devils on March 14 in Deep Run.

And while all four losses could be considered “quality efforts,” East Duplin (8-5, 7-1) picked up its first significant win of the spring against a contender.

That leaves a two-game set with North Lenoir (9-2, 5-1) key to the Panthers title hopes and seeding in the 2A playoffs.

The Hawks come to Beulaville on April 14 and then travel to LaGrange two days later.

East Duplin was slated for a rematch against 1A power North Duplin on Wednesday and then visit Wallace-Rose Hill on Friday.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Carone

Katherine Enamorado

James Kenan, soccer

Katherine Enamorado might be seeing multiple defenders coming at her when she sleeps at night.

Yet if reality on the soccer pitch is the same as her dream life, she’s also kicking balls into the back of the net, despite what the defense does.

The James Kenan striker had 27 goals this season after springing for 30 as a junior.

“She handles the ball well and has a strong shot,” said James Kenan coach Kenny Williams. “We’re hoping to be able to get her more opportunities in the face of her getting double- and sometimes triple-teamed. But she’s done well under the pressure.”

Enamorado is perhaps the biggest key to the Tigers (5-4) getting a bid to the 2A playoffs.

BULLDOGS from page B1

the Tigers swept two from the ’Dawgs. WRH swept two or more games against JK in seven campaigns during the same span. The two teams play on the final day of the regular season — May 1 — in Warsaw. WRH fell 4-1 to South Lenoir last Tuesday, which was vastly different version of ECC softball than it had in consecutive lopsided losses to East Duplin (16-1), North Lenoir (15-4) and Southwest Onlsow (11-5).

WRH picked up its intensity and level of play with a 12-3 revenge win over the Stallions on their home field on March 25. Page (.448) has been on a tear since returning to the lineup after an injury. Meanwhile, catcher Mattie Gavin

(.265, 2 HRs, 10 RBIs) is working through an injury. Tyndall (.323, 7 RBIs), Powell (.357) and Chloe Straughn (.343, 7 RBIs) have been offensive leaders.

JK lost its third straight game and finishes with a rough stretch that includes confrontations with North Lenoir, South Lenoir (twice) and SWO before hosting the Bulldogs on May Day.

Joe (.600) hit her fourth home run of the spring. She also has three doubles and a triple.

Kinzley Sloan leads the Tigers in RBIs with 13. Kenadi Gideons (.550) has the second-most hits. Sloan went 3 for 3 with two RBIs in the 14-4 setback to North Lenoir. Gideons doubled and scored. Jones drove in a run.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

East Duplin’s Katelyn Jones heads a ball in front of the goal during a recent game.

EASTERN RIGHT OF WAY OF KENNEDY ROAD S 16 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS W 106.62 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIPE, THE POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE S 73 DEGREES 45 MINUTES E 106.00 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIPE; THENCE S 16 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS W 75.13 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIPE; THENCE N 73 DEGREES 45 MINUTES W 106.00 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIPE ON SAID RIGHT OF WAY; THENCE WITH SAID RIGHT OF WAY N 16 DEGREES 15 MINUTES 00 SECONDS E 75.13 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING 7,964 SQUARE FEET, AS SURVEYED BY RAY & ASSOC., P.A., ON DECEMBER 9, 1988. BEING THE SAME LOT CONVEYED BY DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 548, PAGE 365, BOOK 1010, PAGE 526, AND BOOK 1010, PAGE 528. BEING THE SAME LAND DESCRIBED IN A DEED DATED DECEMBER 30, 1988 RECORDED IN BOOK 1012, PAGE 38 OF THE DUPLIN COUNTY REGISTRY. FURTHER DESCRIBED IN A DEED DATED SEPTEMBER 1, 1994, RECORDED IN BOOK 1136, PAGE 694, AND ALSO BEING THE SAME LAND AS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1236, PAGE 121 OF THE DUPLIN COUNTY REGISTRY. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 109 S Kennedy Road, Beulaville, NC 28518.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Berry Jeffrey Mobley.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not

Pursuant

property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of

‘Cats trio sign to play college football

Marcus Branthoover, Julian Theil and Lenny Halfter-Hunter helped Richland go 23-10 over the past three seasons

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Marcus Branthoover was a man among boys most Friday nights as a nose guard for Richlands.

Julian Thiel was the quarterback of the defense and Lenny Halfter-Hunter a pass-catching threat that kept the opposition from keying on the Wildcats’ running game, specifically the exploits of running-passing quarterback Caleb Simco.

While Simco is undecided on where he will go to play in college, his three teammates signed letters of intent recently after finishing their careers under head coach Pat Byrd, who has guided Richlands to a 23-10 mark the past three seasons.

The Wildcats had wins over Southwest Onslow, East Duplin and Princeton last fall en route to a 9-2 finish, which ranks among the all-time best marks in school history.

Branthoover looks to be Ram-tough at W-S State

Branthoover defined toughness and was a player opponents had to account for, and in general his presence forced teams to throw the ball.

The 6-foot-3, 260-pound defensive end had 54 tackles, two sacks, two fumble recoveries and an interception.

He worked in combination with tackles Semaj Thompson“ (75 tackles, 6.5 sacks) and Trea’vaun Flanigan (45 tackles).

He’s always got a smile on his face and is one of the more enjoyable players to be around,” Byrd said. “He was the base of the D-line for three years. The attitude he brought every day — to the practice field, in the classroom, on the rack or in the halls — was tremendous.

He will play at Winston-Salem State, a Division II program that went 3-8 last fall.

“He’ll do good things over there,” Byrd said. “He’s a kid you love to be around. Just a pleasure to watch and to watch him lead.”

BASEBALL from page B1

Rhodes via hits, walks, a sacrifice fly and strategic moves by Panther head coach Brandon Thigpen.

JP Murphy opened the inning with a single, and Thigpen put him in motion as Cain Graham was slicing a single to put two runners in scoring position after Graham swiped second.

A walk of Jesus Mojica loaded the bases with no outs.

Rhodes hit Colton Holmes to plate a run.

Gavin Holmes’ double down the third base line gave East Duplin its first lead at 4-3.

Second baseman Jack Tuck followed with a sacrifice fly as the Panthers went in front by two runs and needed six outs for the win.

East Duplin had a chance in the sixth with the score tied at 5-5.

But Gavin Holmes was thrown out at second base following his walk, as Tuck struck out for a bang-bang twin-killing on the last pitch thrown by Rhodes.

Barnett whiffed two of the final three hitters in the seventh.

Dugout chatter

Gavin Holmes, Calvin Harper, Sawyer Marshburn and Tuck each drove in a run during Monday’s 5-4 win in eight innings over North Duplin.

Mojica had a pair of hits and scored, while Colton Holmes delivered a hit, two walks and a run.

Cain Graham allowed four hits and

Staten Island calling Thiel’s number

Thiel made 191 tackles the past two seasons.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound linebacker averaged 9.0 tackles per game last fall when Richlands held the opposition to 13 points per game.

“He led the team in tackles basically playing one-handed,” said Byrd, whose senior will play at Wagner College, a Division I school in Staten Island, New York, in the fall.

“Julian was hurt in the second half against East Duplin (Richland’s third game) and played with one hand the rest of the way, throughout the season, even.”

Wagner is coming off a 4-7 season.

“That kid was one of the hardest working young men we’ve had and was a leader in everything we did, from the weight room to the track to the practice field and before, during and after a game,” Byrd said.

Halfter-Hunter rediscovers football

Halfter-Hunter, a 6-foot-6,

201-pounder, didn’t play football his junior season.

Instead, he, and nearly everyone else on the Richlands campus, thought basketball would be his sport in college. That was before Byrd got him to put on pads and a helmet and simply out-jump defenders for the ball.

Halfter-Hunter had 27 receptions for 456 yards and three touchdowns. The addition made added to the work of Simco (600 yards rushing, 71-142 passing for 1,463 yards and 13 TDs), and running backs Noah LeBlanc (877 yards, eight TDs) and Christian Diaz (472 yards, seven scores).

“He was told not to play multiple sports and to not play football his junior year,” Byrd said. “Not many people would believe how well he played. He’s got good hands and a good work ethic and stays busy by totally being involved and invested in athletics at Richlands.”

“He could be the type of kid that develops and evolves and one you’ll see playing on (TV) on Saturdays. He’s got the ability whether it’s for four years (there) or as a springboard.”

two earned runs, striking out seven and walking one.

Gavin Holmes gave up an earned run and three hit during his stint.

ND tied it at 3-3 in the seventh. East Duplin scored twice in the eighth and held the Rebels to a run in the home half of the inning. The Rebels were to travel to Beulaville on Wednesday for the second game in the series. East Duplin hosts Wallace-Rose Hill on Friday.

The Panthers play two games against North Lenoir the following week, hosting the Hawks on April 15

and traveling to LaGrange on April 17. While the Hawks enter as a favorite, Kern gives the Panthers a fighting chance. North Lenoir is beatable, as SWO showed when it had the bases loaded last Friday in the seventh before falling 5-4.

ED will play Southern Wayne, Rosewood and Charles B. Aycock during its spring break.

Gavin Holmes leads the team in average (.432), extra-base hits (seven) RBIs (10) and is one run behind Colton Holmes (.294) in runs. Tuck (.306) and Mojica (.282) have raised their marks to the best they had this spring.

MICHAEL JAENICKE/DUPLIN JOURNAL

Richlands head football coach Pat Byrd had three players sign a letter-ofintent to play college football. Julian Thiel will go to Wagner University, from left, Lenny Halfter-Hunter to Barton and Marcus Branthoover at Winston-Salem State.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Head coach Brandon Thigpen’s Panthers are looking for a push in the second half of the season facing a competitive schedule.

obituaries

Dacoda Lane Sanderson

Aug. 24, 1996 – April 1, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dacoda Lane Sanderson, 28, of Richlands, NC, on April 1.

Services were held Sunday April 6 at the Community Funeral Home of Beulaville. The family received family and friends at the home of his parents after the service.

Dacoda was born in Jacksonville on August 24,1996 to Vic and Tania Sanderson. The family resided in Richlands where Dacoda, the youngest child, joined two older siblings, Alexis and Trent. He was a lifelong resident of “The Lands” and received his education from Richlands High School. After graduation, Dacoda went to work as a contract welder with his father.

Dacoda was known for his warm heart and outgoing personality. He was a people person, truly never meeting a stranger. He would engage in long conversations with someone he only just met. Had a great love of animals, especially for his cats. He loved to eat, even though you couldn’t tell it by looking at him! He enjoyed spending time with his dad, especially going fishing. Playing video games with his nephews was one of his favorite things to do. He loved nature and exploring the outdoors and relished the peace it brought. He would spend hours putting puzzles together. He absolutely loved going to the movies and looked forward to seeing the horror movie of the moment. He was a voracious reader, everything from classics to comics, and loved sharing what he had learned with others.

Dacoda is survived by his parents, Vic and Tania Sanderson; his sister, Alexis Rogers (Zack); his brother, Trent Sanderson (Brittany); his maternal grandparents, Eddy & Elaine Day; his paternal grandmother, Betty Jo Horne; his nephews and nieces, Zayden Rogers, Maverick, Rogers, Macon Rogers, Saylor Rogers, Nash Sanderson, and Dawson Sanderson; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Virgil Sanderson; and maternal grandfather, Maurice Fountain.

Dacoda was a friend to all and his unique character and witty spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of generosity and compassion for others will live in the hearts of his family, friends, and anyone who had the privilege to meet him.

Owen David Jenkins

Sept. 8, 1990 – April 1, 2025

Owen David Jenkins, age 34, of LaGrange and formerly of Teachey passed from this life to his eternal rest on Tuesday, April 1. He was born on September 8, 1990 in Brunswick County; the son of Robert E. ”Bobby” Jenkins (Debbie) of Willard and Regina Johnson Jenkins of Ocean Isle Beach. Owen was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Ruth Johnson and paternal grandparents Elmore “Buck” and Frances Jenkins. Owen was a resident of RHA Child Care Center for 26 years. Surviving in addition to his parents is his brother, Austin Jenkins; his maternal grandfather, Edward Johnson; special aunt, Winifred Jenkins of Teachey, nephew Greyson Royal Jenkins; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family and friends that loved Owen dearly. Owen was a special young man who was loved by everyone who knew him. He loved music and spending time with Winifred. With his way of communicating, Owen would let you know what he was thinking. He enjoyed his stuff toy snakes that he played with. Owen will be missed but will never be forgotten. Graveside service and entombment were held Saturday, April 5 at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey with the Reverend Matthew Pope officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to RHA Child Care Center, to Wallace Methodist Church, or to a charity of your choice.

Gail Cottle

Aug. 22, 1945 – April 5, 2025

Gail Cottle, age 79, died Saturday, April 5 at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Wilmington. She is preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Amy Lou Pickett, and brother Phillip Pickett. She is survived by her husband Howard Cottle of Beulaville; son, David Cottle and wife Jennifer of Surf City; sister, Kay Lanier and husband Ralph Jr.; and three grandchildren, Kristan Cottle, Dakota Cottle, and Emma Cottle.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Beulaville Baptist Church for the Music Department.

Lorene M. McKinzie

March 26, 1951 –April 2, 2025

Lorene McKinzie, 74, of Kenansville entered eternal rest April 2 at Lower Cape Fear Life Care in Wilmington. Visitation was held Saturday April 5 at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw. Funeral service was held Sunday April 6 at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Wallace, followed by interment at Middleton Cemetery in Kenansville.

Jeffrey Trent McCullen

April 23, 1962 – April 6, 2025

Jeffrey Trent McCullen, 62, passed away peacefully at the McCullen Family home early Sunday morning. Trent is survived by the apple of his eye, his daughter Anna McCullenParker and her husband, Malik of Mount Olive; his parents, Marion Faison “M.F.” Jr. and Faye Thornton McCullen; his sister, DeAnna F. McCullen of Mount Olive; and his two brothers, Joey McCullen and his wife Lisa, and Chad McCullen and his wife Dawn all of Mount Olive. Trent is also survived by a niece, Rachel McCullen, and two nephews; Carlton McCullen, and Adam McCullen and his wife Sarah, and their daughter, Mollie.

Trent was preceded in death by grandparents, Edgar Lee and Rubia Keel Thornton, and Marion Faison “M.F.” Sr. and Anna Summerlin McCullen; and a son, Brandon Scott McCullen.

Trent spent most of his life on the family farm doing what he loved best; farming and driving those John Deere tractors. He most recently helped with the McCullen Litter Service, and always enjoyed fixing up anything that was broken, being involved in racing with his family, and had earned the title “Pitt Crew Leader”. Trent was a member of Northeast Original Free Will Baptist Church where its people and his time there always held a special place in his heart.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday evening, April 8 in the Chapel of Tyndall Funeral Home.

Pastor Brian Wheeler officiated the service, and the family received friends immediately following. Burial took place privately on Wednesday at the Pineview Cemetery in Seven Springs.

Henry Hargett Hardison

July 3, 1947 – April 2, 2025

Henry Hargett Hardison, age 77, died Wednesday, April 2 at the Wallace Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Wallace. He is survived by his sister, Marie Jarman and husband Kenneth of Beulaville; brother Nelson Hardison of Beulaville; and two special nephews, Timmy Hardison and Jonathan Jarman. Memorial service was held Monday, April 7 followed by visitation at the Serenity Funeral Home in Beulaville.

Robert Lee Knowles Jr.

July 16, 1956 – April 4, 2025

Robert Lee Knowles Jr. passed from his earthly life on the morning of Friday April 4, 2025, while at home in Wallace. Born on July 16, 1956, he is the son of the late Robert Lee Knowles Sr. and Peggy Young Knowles. He is also preceded in death by his fatherin-law and mother-in-law, Lewis and Sylvia Walker.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Diane W. Knowles; daughter, HaLee Knowles-Lucas and husband Travis of Black Creek; brother, Greg Knowles and wife Rose of Teachey; and niece and nephew, Ashton Kornegay and Gregory Knowles of Greenville.

Knowles grew up in Duplin County and attended school in the area. Being something of a jokester, he enjoyed many conversations with everyone and never met a stranger. Hunting and especially fishing were some of his favorite pastimes, along with his go kart racing. He truly loved and enjoyed his family and some of his most cherished times in life were spent in coaching HaLee in little league and later in softball.

Robert’s family will greeted friends at a visitiation Monday, April 7 in the chapel of Padgett Funeral Home in Wallace followed by a celebration of life. After the service, interment was held in Duplin Memorial Gardens of Teachey.

Martin Alan Brown

Oct. 8, 1935 – April 2, 2025

Martin Alan Brown, 89, of Warsaw, died on Wednesday, April 2at Liberty Commons

Rehabilitation in Benson, NC. Alan was born in Duplin County on October 8, 1935 to James Mason and Lucy Parker Brown.

Alan retired from USDA as a meat inspector after a 39 year career. He loved mowing grass, gardening, singing and his Warsaw breakfast clubs. Alan adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren to whom he was affectionately known as Poppy. He loved his big family and felt each of his siblings, their spouses, nieces and nephews were very special to him. Alan had a love for music and sang on many special occasions. He took great pride in cleaning and maintaining the family cemeteries.

Through the years he went on numerous mission trips, served as a Gideon for several years, and even passed out pickles at the Grand Ole Opry as a Mount Olive Pickle Ambassador. Visitation was held Saturday, April 5 at the Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. A funeral service followed in the funeral home chapel, with burial in Devotional Gardens to conclude the service. The family will receive visitors at other times at the home of Samuel and Pamela Brown, 731 Ebenezer Church Road, Coats, NC 27521.

Alan is survived by wife, Millie I. Brown of Coats; son, Samuel Alan Brown and wife Pamela of Coats; daughter, Pamela B. Wallace and husband Gerry of South Carolina; grandchildren, Ivey and Jason McCune, Alana and Mitchell Nelson, Samuel and Sarah Brown, Samantha and Scott Dunn; great-grandchildren, Kennedy McCune, Karsyn McCune, Summerlin Nelson, Everleigh Nelson, Banks Brown, Tate Brown and Smith Dunn; sisters, Jewel Brown and Sylvia Davis (Ray).

In addition to his parents, Alan was preceded in death by brothers, James Mason Brown Jr., Russell Brown, Morris Brown and Benjamin Brown; and sisters, DeAlphia Robbins, Susan Joyner and Barbara Smith. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The Alan and Millie Brown Scholarship Fund at James Sprunt Community College

Pay one price carnival rides, $15, 5-9 pm

Spare Change Concert outdoors at R&R Brewing, 7-10 pm

Cuke Patch 5K Glow Run, 7:30-9 pm starting from Westbrook Park and ending at R&R Brewing! Pickleball Tournament Thursday, Friday and Saturday!

Pickle Eating Contest, noon Live Entertainment, Beer & Wine Garden.

Tour de Pickle Bike Ride, 9 am. Helicopter Rides. Ollie’s Costume Contest 1:30 pm

Plus, Food, Vendors, Petting Zoo, Carnival Rides, Pickle Train rides, Free Pickles, and so much more! Visitthe website forparking andshuttle details

Downtown Mount Olive

Left: Yanetzy Escobar of Fairy Paintz transformed event-goers into unicorns, superheroes and more with creative face-painting at this year’s event. Right: Up-and-coming Clinton musician Lily White took the stage ahead of Band of Oz at Beulaville’s annual Hog Wild Festival this Saturday.

Above: Beulaville Commissioner Tracy Thomas reveled in the friendly competition at this year’s much-anticipated Hog Wild Cake Walk. Below: Event-goers grab a bite from the Kari’s Bakery Food Truck.

PHOTOS BY K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Carolina Beach music mainstay Band of Oz put on an energetic show at the Beulaville Hog Wild Festival on Saturday.

LORI WILLIAMS / SPECIAL TO THE DUPLIN JOURNAL

Hog Wild Cook-Off winners Greg Fields (from left), third place; Gerrard Johnson, second place; and Kenneth Cavenaugh, first place, pose with their cutting board trophies.

Duplin Journal Vol. 10, Issue 7

Duplin Journal

the BRIEF this week

State superintendent comes to Duplin

Beulaville addresses waterline break at monthly meeting

SPONSORED BY DUPLIN CALENDAR

MARRIAGE LICENSES

April

A journey of service, dedication, community impact

Meet Sheriff Stratton Stokes

THE CONVERSATION

VISUAL VOICES

SNAP shouldn’t subsidize slurpees

DCS students excel at NC Beta Convention

CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

DUPLIN SPORTS

Blue Devils’ ‘finishing details’ key to ECC win over Panthers

Brown shuts down Devils as Panthers push to top of East Central mountain

Rebels bounce back to cage Wildcats, Cougars

Panthers booters take down 2 foes despite sluggish play

Katherine Enamorado

James Kenan, soccer

‘Cats trio sign to play college football

obituaries

Dacoda Lane Sanderson

Owen David Jenkins

Gail Cottle

Lorene M. McKinzie

Jeffrey Trent McCullen

Henry Hargett Hardison

Robert Lee Knowles Jr.

Martin Alan Brown