To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
THURSDAY
Sampson and Onslow counties in implementing tobacco-free policies since 2012. After hearing of the board’s intention to hold a public hearing for the proposed temporary moratorium last month, he contacted the town to offer assistance in drafting the ordinance.
“This gives you a time to put something that will stand up in court,” said Watts. “It will also give you an opportunity to look at the concept of emulsion.” Through emulsion, Watts explained, any business operating as anything other than a vape shop (such as a laundromat, gas station, convenience store, etc.) that exceeds a board-determined limit in sales of vape or vape paraphernalia could have its business license pulled by the board. Though the ordinance wouldn’t affect existing shops, it would create barriers to vape accessibility near residential areas, churches and schools. Watts advised the board that they were able to set any rate or distance limit they wanted and offered to assist in the two -year process. He also said such regulations were important and cautioned the board about the battle ahead.
DUPLIN CALENDAR
May 17
Join the Pink Hill Fireman’s Day hosted by the Pink Hill Volunteer Fire and Rescue on Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be at 300 S. Front St. in Pink Hill and will feature a barbecue plate sale, various vendors, a car show and a raffle. Prizes in the raffle include a golf cart, a TurtleBox speaker, and $100 in cash. Tickets are $10 each, and the drawing will be held at 2 p.m.
May 21
Duplin County Senior & Veterans Services will host an open house on Wednesday, May 21 from 2-4 p.m. at 156 Duplin Commons Drive in Kenansville. For more information, call 910-296-2140.
May 31
• Join the Duplin Events Center on May 31 at noon for an EMS Community Day featuring fun and education for the entire family. Sponsored by Duplin County EMS, the event will feature first aid instruction, touch-a-truck exhibits, vendors, hands-on activities, education and entertainment for the whole family.
• A Community Resource Day will be held in Magnolia on May 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Magnolia Park located on Highway 117. There will be food trucks, community resources available and free food distributed. For more information, please call 910-289-3205.
June 5
Registration is now open for the Chinquapin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Catfishing Tournament. The deadline to register is June 5 at 7 p.m. For more information, contact the Ladies Auxiliary at 910-375-0717.
June 7
Get ready for the Bow Ties & Tiaras Daddy-Daughter Dance, happening on Saturday, June 7 from 6-9 p.m. at
the Wallace Woman’s Club located at 216 NE Railroad St. This event serves as a scholarship fundraiser for the 2025 SCCNL Nurses Ball. Tickets are $25 for a dad and one daughter, with an additional cost of $5 for each extra daughter. Your outfits and dance moves will help determine the 2025 Best Daddy-Daughter Duo. All father-daughter duos are welcome to join in on an evening of elegance, laughter, and love — no age limit.
Chinquapin Volunteer Fire and Rescue will host a Touch-a-Truck Day and BBQ plate sale on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. BBQ plates will be available for $10. Come explore the department’s impressive equipment, look inside the trucks, tour the facility and meet the dedicated volunteers from our community.
June 13
• Goshen Medical Center will be hosting a Health event at the Kingdom Partnership Christian Center in Beulaville on June 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Goshen’s mobile medical unit will be providing primary care and preventative health services, including Pap smears, vaccinations, injury triage and acute care for minor injuries, weight loss, diabetes, health education and more. The event aims to reduce barriers to care and support healthier communities through accessible and affordable health care solutions. To preregister or request more information, call 910-935-1404.
Join the Kenansville Pro Rodeo, featuring the best rodeo action on dirt, on June 13-14 starting at 8 p.m. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Come see the finest rodeo athletes from the East Coast compete in bull riding, bronc riding and barrel racing. No dogs or coolers are allowed. Advance tickets are $15, and children aged 5 and under can attend for free. Concessions will be available at the arena. For more information, call 540-521-3959.
June 20
Celebrate Juneteenth at the Duplin Events Center at 7 p.m. on June 20. The event will feature special guest 803 Fresh with “Boots on the Ground.
June 21
• Visit the Albertson Community Building on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to join a small business event, which will include food, vendors and crafts.
“Now we’re seeing fentanyl, we’re seeing THC — anything that can be liquefied can be used for vape,” Watts warned. “We’ve got vapes that look like dolls, we’ve got vapes that look like ‘Toy Story’ characters, hoodies where the string is a tube. … We had one in this county, a fifth grader that was selling vapes at $5 a puff on the playground — it is rampant. You’re going against a billion-dollar industry, and that’s just a fact.”
Zorn was the next to speak. “I need to do anything I can do to make sure nobody else’s parent loses their child. I have been to the legislature, been anywhere I could go within the state to convince everyone that we need to work together to get rid of these vape shops to save our kids.”
Zorn’s stepson died just 10 days after his 15th birthday, the youngest example of a vape-induced death in the state of North
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 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., 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.
Carolina. A bill in his honor, called “Solly’s Law,” is currently working its way through state legislature as House Bill 430, sponsored by Rep. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston), and Senate Bill 318, sponsored by Sen. Gale Adcock (D-Wake). The bill would require a tobacco retail sales permit for businesses and raise the age to purchase tobacco and vape products in the state from 18 to 21.
“These kids don’t know what they’re doing to their bodies,” Zorn explained. Following testimony from Watts and Zorn, the board voted unanimously to move forward with the temporary moratorium. Also on the agenda was a resolution to oppose state legislature that seeks to limit the authority of smaller municipalities as regards zoning and land-use planning — specifically S.B. 495, S.B. 497, S.B. 498, S.B. 688 and H.B. 765. According to the resolution, “these bills change many aspects of local planning and zoning and dramatically affect the ability of local governments to reflect the will of their citizenry.”
“The biggest things are regulating our residential areas. The state will pretty much tell you what can go there,” said Wil-
liams. “They’re putting a lot of restrictions on what the town’s planning can and cannot do.” Williams added that limitations on application turnaround timelines were also being imposed with the new legislation.
“That kind of slaps you on the hand because you have to advertise so many days for public hearings, give the public time to comment before the town council can make a decision,” she said.
Williams confirmed in a response to Commissioner Gene Wickeline that the state had no communication with the League of Municipalities prior to bringing the legislation.
“And there’s a ton of opposition from most municipalities,” added Mayor Hutch Jones. “There’s a lot of this that leaves you scratching your head.”
In other business, the town approved a resolution accepting a $2.7 million Community Development Block Grant for Infrastructure from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. The grant will cover sewer improvements, which will include rehabilitation at the treatment plant as well as facilitating the replacement of sewer lines in southern Beulaville.
BEULAVILLE from page A1
K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Charlene Zorn addressed the Beulaville Town Board during a public hearing on a 24-month vape and tobacco shop moratorium on May 5.
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Freedom for and from religion
Our U.S. form of government is based on the idea that the majority rules, but always with the responsibility of protecting the rights of all people.
OVERLOOKING VIRGINIA’S Blue Ridge mountains, Thomas Jefferson’s grave is located downhill from his beloved home, Monticello. Jefferson was the second governor of Virginia, a member of the Continental Congress, the first secretary of State, our second vice president, and the third president. And yet these accomplishments are not listed on his grave marker. Instead, his monument is inscribed, “Here was buried Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of American Independence, of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom & Father of the University of Virginia.’” Jefferson said, “because by these, as testimonials that I have lived, I wish most to be remembered.”
In 1786, the Virginia General Assembly passed the Statute for Religious Freedom, that no person can be compelled to attend a particular church, support an established religion through taxation, or be discriminated against in any way because of faith or religious beliefs. Jefferson was reacting against the tradition of the state - established Church of England and
in his own state of Virginia. Jefferson’s Statute for Religious Freedom was the main motivation behind the freedom of religion clause in the First Amendment of the American Constitution. In 1802, Jefferson wrote a letter to the Danbury (Connecticut) Baptist Convention in which he used the illustration of a “wall of separation” to describe his strongly held belief in limiting the influence of religious denominations and leaders in national government.
While Jefferson intended his Statute for Religious Freedom to provide for both freedom to practice one’s religion and freedom from the establishment of any one particular religion, many Christians today complain that the idea of the separation of church and state is a direct attack on their beliefs, traditions and practices. However, as J. Brent Walker, executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, has written, “To say God has been banished from the public square is also a huge misconception. The institutional separation of church and state does not mean the segregation of religion from
The crisis of radical district judges
THE FIGHT OVER whether unelected federal district court judges should be able to unilaterally halt an elected president of the United States’ agenda has reached a critical point.
For the last three months, the American people’s effort to profoundly change the Washington establishment has been blocked by radical district judges, who have wildly exceeded their authority. In the first 100 days of President Donald J. Trump’s second administration, lower court judges have issued 37 nationwide injunctions against various administration actions. That is more than one every three days.
This is not an issue of judges against Trump. It is an issue of judges against the American people.
In the 2024 election, the American people elected a Republican House, Senate and president. Trump carried all seven swing states. He received 77.3 million votes — 2.3 million more than Vice President Kamala Harris.
There are 677 district judges on the federal bench. If any of them can issue nationwide injunctions to override the decisions of the elected president, we are in a real crisis. Remember, these judges have never been elected by the American people. They face no consequence if their rulings result in ruined lives or wasted taxpayer dollars.
Not all of them are overreaching, but some certainly are. And some of the nationwide injunctions which have been passed verge on insanity.
One injunction asserted that the executive cannot pause or terminate fugitive admissions into to the United States and had accept hundreds of thousands of
refugees — never mind the humanitarian or financial cost of the decision.
Another injunction blocked the removal of men from women’s prisons despite the risk of physical harm to female prisoners.
A third injunction blocked the executive branch from doing anything about so-called sanctuary cities. It went wildly overboard and asserted the White House cannot even have conversations about sanctuary cities.
These are just a few examples of the absurd judicial micro-management we are witnessing.
When President Thomas Jefferson was working to build and protect our new nation, he warned that government ultimately controlled by judges would be a road to despotism. In a letter to William Jarvis on Sept. 28, 1820, Jefferson wrote:
“You seem ... to consider the judges as the ultimate arbiters of all constitutional questions: a very dangerous doctrine indee[d] and one which would place us under the despotism of an Oligarchy.”
As I testified at a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing, the founding fathers all believed that the three branches of government should be co-equal. If anything, the judiciary would be the weakest of the three branches. They were clear that the two elected branches could correct the judicial branch if it tried to impose its will on the American people.
Alexander Hamilton warned in the Federalist Papers that the legislative and executive branches could powerfully respond to judges — and judges would have no means of defending themselves.
As president, Jefferson and the Democrats eliminated 14 of 34 federal judges in the Judiciary Act of 1802. They did not impeach
politics or God from government or strip the right of people of faith to speak forcefully in the public square. It only means government cannot pass laws that have the primary purpose or effect that advances religion.” He ends his article with this claim that many people will surely argue with, “The separation of church and state is good for both!”
Our U.S. form of government is based on the idea that the majority rules, but always with the responsibility of protecting the rights of all people, including those in the minority. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately two-thirds of American adults identify as Christian. It is important for Christians to be involved in the important issues that affect our communities while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of our neighbors. When we commit to the idea of the separation of church and state in its truest sense and demonstrate through our actions our deepest faith beliefs, we can say with Thomas Jefferson, “because by these, as testimonials that I have lived, I wish most to be remembered.”
Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.
anyone (a lengthy and difficult task). Jefferson simply abolished the judgeships, and the judges no longer had jobs.
We do not have to eliminate district courts in the Jeffersonian tradition — unless we are forced to.
Hopefully, the U.S. Supreme Court will recognize that judicial tyranny by lower courts is intolerable and unsustainable.
The High Court could take decisive steps to eliminate nationwide injunctions by local judges — or make a rule that they are immediately adjudicated by the Supreme Court.
In the meantime, the House and Senate have begun work to correct absurd overreach by the most radical district court judges.
This week’s introduction of the Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 by Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley and 20 senators is a powerful signal that the Senate can defend itself against tyrannical judges.
When this is combined with Congressman Darrell Issa’s No Rogue Rulings Act of 2025 (which passed in the House by 219-213), it’s clear the district judges are forcing a constitutional crisis.
We must protect the American people’s right to elect those who manage the federal government. Lower court judges who think they can micromanage and override the elected president and Congress have a simple path: Resign and run for office.
Hopefully the Supreme Court will end this absurdity. If not, the Congress and the president will have to exercise their constitutional authority and eliminate nationwide injunctions by district judges. There is no alternative if we are to retain government of, by, and for the people.
Newt Gingrich was the 50th speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.
COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN
COLUMN | NEWT GINGRICH
Resign and run for office.
Two Duplin County students accepted into NC Governor’s School
The pair were recognized by the Duplin school board
By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Board of Education’s regular business meeting on May 6 included a special recognition for two students accepted into the North Carolina Governor’s School, the oldest statewide summer residential educational program in the nation.
Eduardo Gonzalez of Wallace-Rose Hill High School and Maya Smith of Duplin Early College High School were selected for the honor of attending the four-week explor-
monthly meetings that shift into weekly sessions six weeks before the event. This dedication speaks to the deep commitment of the core group — a board of 11 members, led by an event chairman.
“The officers of the board are on a rotation,” Farrior explained. “It keeps everybody excited and fresh and just ready to get in there and want to make things the best that they can possibly be.”
The group works tirelessly to ensure that the festival leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
“It takes a lot of planning, but it truly is an event that we all take pride in. And I just think that it says Wallace up one side and down the other. It’s Carolina Strawberry Festival, and when folks hear that name, they think about Wallace,” said Farrior, adding that he hopes people walk away feeling happy after spending time among thousands of smiling faces.
Whether they left with fresh strawberries in hand, enjoyed delicious bites from the food vendors or explored the wide variety of booths lining the streets, Farrior said they hope visitors were not only impressed by the festival itself but also the warm, welcoming spirit of Wallace.
The impact of the festival goes far beyond Main Street. With an estimated attendance of 25,000 people coming through Wallace over Friday and Saturday, local businesses — both downtown and even out on Highway 117 — felt the ripple effect.
“A friend that has a business on 117 told me that she had seen a lot of traffic from the strawberry festival. So I hope it gave all the businesses in town a boost on that day,” said Farrior, explaining that he believes this was the largest crowd they’ve had. “We really had a boost in attendance last year, and I think we had even more than that this year. … We had about 195 vendors, and that’s the most we’ve ever had.”
But the board is just the beginning. The real heartbeat of the festival comes from its volunteers, who help throughout the weekend — it’s about community pride, about neighbors coming together to create something beautiful for Wallace and its visitors. The town of Wallace itself stands as a pillar of support.
“To see the town staff, the police department, public works department, parks and rec, all work hand in hand with our community and our volunteers, is truly amazing,” said Farrior.
Parks and Rec manages the 5K run, which this year saw
atory learning opportunity following a rigorous application process facilitated by Janice Goldsby that involved essay submissions, personal reflections and teacher recommendations. According to Nicole Murray, chief academic officer for STEAMA Curriculum and Instruction/Professional Development, selection for participation in the program is a high honor.
“We certainly congratulate these two students. They represent the best of Duplin County and North Carolina students based on their outstanding achievements,” said Murray. “It is a very competitive process to be selected for the North Carolina Governor’s School.”
Gonzalez, son of Isis Yanez
“We certainly congratulate these two students.”
Nicole
Murray
and Eduardo Gonzalez, will be attending Governor School West at Greensboro College for social sciences. Smith, daughter of Sara Marinelli and Jamal Smith, will attend Governor School East at Meredith College to study natural sciences. Murray explained that the program focuses not on tests and grades but growth and exploration.
“Our students have the opportunity to spend four weeks
learning, engaging with other students, integrating academic disciplines, arts, and lots of unique courses that they can take.”
Though the students weren’t able to attend Tuesday’s meeting, Murray indicated that they would be honored with certificates at their respective schools in recognition of their selection for the program. “We extend as usual our thanks to their teachers, their parents, and all of the staff that have supported them through the years. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to recognize them.”
A complete list of items approved and discussed at the board’s meeting can be found at duplinschools.net.
nearly 380 runners — the largest group ever, according to Farrior. Meanwhile, Public Works ensures the streets are clean and facilities are maintained in peak condition.
“Public Works did an incredible job keeping up with the pace of the festival,” said Police Chief Jimmy Crayton. “When the festival was over, by Sunday morning, you didn’t even know there had been a festival there. The streets were clean. They were swept. The trash was gone.”
According to Crayton, more than 20 officers were on duty this year, including deputies from Duplin and Pender counties, with some arriving as early as 5 a.m. and staying until the very last tent was packed up. This is not just an extra shift — it’s three straight weekends of duty for many officers.
What makes all of this even more remarkable is that so much of it is done behind the scenes. Crayton, who served as president for three years, also praised the festival committee and the volunteers they bring in to help run the event. He added it’s a thankless and demanding job, but one done with care and purpose.
Proceeds from the festival are reinvested into the community through a small grants program, which caps at $2,500.
“The festival in 2023 was the first festival that had been financially successful enough for us to give money back to the community,” Farrior explained. That year, grants helped with projects like the Wallace Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas at Twilight and new permanent infrastructure for the Downtown Wallace Merchants As-
sociation’s iconic strawberry installation. The Wallace Depot Commission brought music and celebration to the community with their Downtown Get Down event, while Pet Friends received support for their Pet Day in the Park. Other grant recipients included the town of Wallace for the refurbishment of the Welcome to Wallace sign, the restoration of the historic Railway Postal Car and the planting of trees at Farrior Park.
“In 2024, we gave away $15,000 in grants,” Farrior told Duplin Journal.
The grants have served the community in meaningful ways, from light pole banners that brighten the streets to food drives by Impact Church’s Helping Hands Outreach Ministry,
Whether supporting hurricane relief trips to western North Carolina to help storm victims or upgrading the dog park, the funds are helping Wallace grow stronger, more connected and more vibrant.
According to Farrior, grant applications typically open midsummer and are carefully reviewed and scored by the board before awards are announced in the fall. The process is rooted in transparency and stewardship, guided by the festival’s financial reports to ensure that every dollar given back is used wisely.
The festival has become one of Wallace’s most defining events, significantly enhancing the town’s visibility and identity.
Farrior shared that as part of developing a Wallace Economic Development Strategic Plan — set to be presented to the town council soon — it was striking how often the Carolina Straw-
berry Festival came up as a key community asset.
“The lady that has guided us through this process is Samantha Darlington, who is a Community Economic Development planner for the North Carolina Main Street Center,” he explained. “It kind of is rewarding to know that all the effort that goes into the festival is being recognized not only by folks in Wallace, but folks on a state level as well.”
Farrior shared that this year, the festival layout got a refresh — vendors were spaced out more strategically to encourage visitors to explore not just the booths but also the shops and businesses along Main Street. With a record number of vendors, the event expanded beyond its usual footprint on Main and Railroad streets to include Raleigh and Bonney streets.
“When you’re bringing that many folks in and you need to be prepared for them, it takes a great deal of planning. And that’s part of why it takes a year’s worth of meetings to get it all put together,” said Farrior.
Annual favorites like the Strawberry Princess Contest, dinosaur rides and live bands create a draw across generations.
“My family was down there for much of the festival,” said Crayton. “I’ve got two little girls that had the time of their lives riding the rides and eating ice cream.”
The Carolina Strawberry Festival is not only a celebration of people and service but reflects the very best of Wallace, its hospitality, resilience and the spirit of small-town America.
James Kenan High School Reunion Weekend May 23-24
Warsaw James Kenan High School will be holding a reunion weekend presented by James Kenan alumni for all classes from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s on May 23 -24. May 23 will feature a $15 meet and greet with Veterans of Foreign Wars at 364 Bruce Costin Road in Warsaw from 6-11 p.m. On May 24, doors will open at the Lois G. Britt Agriculture Building in Kenansville for an “All Denim Affair” featuring old-school legend Chubb Rock and Gilbert Baez, master of the Supermix. Registration is $75 and includes food and drinks. Tickets are available at jameskenanalum. eventbright.com.
Duplin County to hold Community Day celebration June 21
Wallace
A Community Day celebration will take place June 21 at the Thell B. Overman Football Field in Wallace and feature emcee Syara Kornegay and Javonte Williams of the Dallas Cowboys. The event, free and open to the public, will also include face painting, bouncy houses, balloon animals and more, in addition to local vendors and community resources such as Saved by Grace Soul Food, Sunset Slush, Shackle Free Community Outreach, ECU Health, Royal Vibes Beauty Brand, Prepaid Legal Services and various others. For more information, call 910 -271-2193.
Voting for Teachey’s Movie Night in the Park ends May 19
Teachey Voting is open until May 19 for the town of Teachey’s Movie Night in the Park on Saturday, May 24, which will be held at the Boney Street Park in Teachey at 7:30 p.m.
Prospective attendees can vote on “Sonic 3,” “The Wild Robot” or “Inside Out” to be shown as the evening’s entertainment, which will include free doughnuts and unlimited popcorn. Votes can be placed on the Town of Teachey’s Facebook page. Those planning to attend should bring a lawn chair and/or blanket.
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@ duplinjournal.com
Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL Participants of the Carolina Strawberry Festival enjoyed delicious strawberry treats from area vendors.
Five decades of dedication to dancing
Dancer’s corner owner bids farewell to students after 51 years of teaching
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
WALLACE — After more than five decades of teaching and inspiring generations through the art of dance, Jane Highsmith, owner of Dancer’s Corner, has retired. From tiny ballerinas taking their first steps to teenagers performing on stage, Highsmith has guided countless students with unwavering passion, patience and dedication.
Highsmith’s love of dance began in childhood, sparked by a doctor’s suggestion to strengthen her “weak ankles.” Her mother, a devoted schoolteacher and farmer’s wife, drove her and her sister to dance lessons in Wilmington every Saturday.
“There was no one around that taught dance, like there is now. … The only way she could get my sister and I dance lessons was to take us for private lessons every Saturday… and I loved it,” Highsmith told Duplin Journal.
Looking back, she reflected on her mother’s dedication —chauffeuring two little girls in leotards on her only day off — and how that planted the seeds for what would become a lifelong passion.
Her teaching journey began when a friend who was pregnant reached out for help giving dance lessons. They had both learned from the same teacher.
“I went and taught my first lesson, and I loved it,” she recalled. And just like that, a dance teacher was born.
“I love children and I love music,” said Highsmith. “It’s amazing what music can do.”
With a record player, a stack of records that she still keeps and a trunk full of determination, Highsmith started traveling to small towns to give dance lessons. There were times when
the ceilings would leak, and they had to place buckets beneath them. Despite those conditions, she loved teaching dance.
“The first place I went was Hampstead to the community center, and the children would come there,” said Highsmith.
“I went to Warsaw and taught at the armory, and I believe the next place I went to was Kenansville, and taught on stage at one of the elementary schools.”
A few years later, she started teaching in Wallace and later purchased an old beauty shop, which she renovated to establish Dancer’s Corner.
“Back then, I did it all by myself. I taught from 2 to 18 years olds, just one class right after the other,” Highsmith recalled.
For 20 years, while running her dance studio, she also worked as a school teacher’s assistant.
“I would do that in the mornings and then leave there and come teach dance because I was a single mom,” Highsmith explained. “I had two girls and I had to make ends meet, so I had two jobs which made for long days but that’s okay.”
For Highsmith, teaching tap was the most fun and helped the kids learn the beat of the music.
“It’s rhythmic and it kept
their interest. That’s what I always started my babies in,” said Highsmith, adding that the duck song never failed to engage children and help them feel the rhythm. “Because it started quack, quack, quack, quack, quack, quack, quack, quack,” and every baby lit up the moment they heard it. “I can see them right now.”
“It truly has been a lifetime of happiness,” said Highsmith, who at 71, remains physically active and full of energy, attributing much of her vitality to her passion for dance.
Highsmith had two daughters — Georgia and Harley. The active mom worked through both of her pregnancies without skipping a beat. “I taught right through them. I held my stomach while I danced,” Highsmith recounted.
“My daughter [Georgia] is the only one I ever threw out of class for misbehaving,” reminisced Highsmith with a chuckle. “[She had] long, curly hair, she was probably like four. … I opened the door and said, ‘Out! Just go!’ The waiting room was full of people, and I thought, well, that didn’t sound good. So I opened the door back and said, ‘she’s mine; it’s okay,’ so they wouldn’t
think I was just throwing out some random child.”
When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, Highsmith kept her studio alive by creating taped-off boxes on the floor, each of which the students called their “house,” allowing them to dance safely.
“Everybody was thrilled because nobody could do anything and the children went crazy. But they could come to dance,” Highsmith. “They all wore their masks. But they stayed in their little house — you can make anything fun.”
This small but clever innovation preserved a sense of structure, turning an obstacle into something fun and novel for the children during a time of widespread disruption.
Highsmith shared that over the years her students taught her patience. She finds herself deeply moved by the children’s continued capacity for love.
“They’re just so loving. They’re so loving and forgiving. And you can be in the worst mood in the world and walk into that room. And all that goes away,” she explained.
Creativity has been a hallmark of Highsmith’s work, particularly in her annual recitals — 51 in total, each unique. From choreography to costume selection, she meticulously planned every detail.
“I never, ever had the same theme,” said Highsmith, adding that she likes to create. The music had to suit the children, the costumes had to flatter diverse body types, and everything had to align to tell a cohesive story. This thoughtful approach made her recitals not only entertaining but meaningful, reflecting her artistic vision and high standards.
Highsmith considers herself lucky and believes that her love for children and teaching them dance is what made her studio special. She wanted her students to also learn about perseverance, compassion, re-
silience, and teamwork. Over the years, many of her students have brought their own children to learn dance with her, and she affectionately refers to these students as her grandchildren. Others went on to teach and carry on her legacy.
“Two of them are still teaching,” said Highsmith. “That makes me feel good because I know how much both of them loved it as little girls.”
The decision to retire from her dance studio was not an easy one for Highsmith. Although she initially considered retiring in 2024, at the 50-year mark, she found herself holding on. Her decision to step back from teaching was driven by an awareness of changing attitudes in dance education.
“I don’t want to babysit. I want to teach and some of the children are not willing to work now,” she said, adding that her approach to dance was more traditional, particularly the commitment she brought to annual recitals. Her process required nearly a full year of planning and fine-tuning — from August through April. While she’s open to teaching again, she humorously admits she’d only take on the youngest dancers.
“I would go teach for somebody else where I could walk in and walk out. But give me the 2-year-olds. Don’t give me the teenagers,” she said with a chuckle.
Though the spotlight faded on recital day without tears, Highsmith shared that it was the quiet moments in the week before when the emotions truly danced in.
Her final recital, themed “Broadway,” was a celebratory close to an extraordinary chapter. As her students took their final bow, they carried her legacy in every step, leap, and turn.
Although retired from her studio, Highsmith continues to inspire young minds at Wallace Christian Academy, where she teaches in the computer lab.
COURTESY JANE HIGHSMITH
Left to right, Georgia Farrior, Jane Highsmith and Windsor Farrior.
DUPLIN SPORTS
Rebels make adjustments at plate to overcome Rice
It took ND five innings to figure out how to hit Vance Charter’s Leah Rice, but when they did, the Rebels exploded for a “win-it-now” sixth inning
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
CALYPSO — North Duplin played “small ball” until it could figure out how to put the ball into the sweet spot of their bats against Leah Rice.
Once the light went on the Rebels lineup came to life for four runs in the sixth inning to beat Vance Charter 5-0 last Friday in the second round of the 1A playoffs.
Another key was the defense the Rebels played behind hurl-
er Lilly Fulghum and how their aggressive base-running paid an early dividend.
No. 6 North Duplin (14-3) advanced to play No. 3 Bear Grass Charter (21-4). On Friday, the winner will face the survivor of No. 7 Chatham Central (20-3) and No. 2 Roxboro Community (18-5) for a spot in the best-of-three East Region next week. No. 1 Perquimans (23-2) and No. 13 Rosewood (18-4), the Rebels’ chief Carolina Conference rival, are two of the better teams in the top half of the bracket. The Eagles would have to beat No. 11 Oxford Prep (146) and the top seed to reach the region final. Perquimans faces No. 9 Falls Lake (13-10) in its third-round test. Notice a theme?
Indeed, the week began with four non-public schools alive in the East bracket and there are three in the West Region, as seven of the 16 schools can openly recruit players.
Crunch time
Vance Charter crumbled in the sixth as mental and physical errors aided North Duplin, which found the secret to hitting Rice.
“It’s hard because we were two teams in a conference in which we don’t see enough good pitching outside of Rosewood,” said North Duplin coach Jaimie Kylis Higginbotham. “We won’t face anything but good teams from here out. One of
The Rebels’ Marcus Hill, Trashawn Ruffin and Tateyawna Faison claimed individual titles
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
KINSTON — Last Friday was a day to remember for Ja’Myah Pickett and her Panthers teammates. Pickett captured three gold medals and a silver at the NCHSAA’s 2A track and field championships in Kinston and East Duplin tallied enough points to win its first-ever regional title.
NCHSAA BASEBALL PLAYOFFS
The East Duplin pitcher limited Martin County to two hits and a pair of first inning runs in a loss to the No. 7 seed in the 2A playoffs
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
WILLIAMSTON — Even a perfect performance by Kyle Kern wouldn’t have been enough to extend the baseball season for East Duplin.
The Panthers’ ace limited No. 7 Martin County to two hits and the games’ lone runs in the first innings during a 2-0 loss in the first round of the 2A playoffs. Kern, who leads the state with 130 strikeouts, whiffed 11 and walked just two as the Panthers’ rebounded from a 10-14 mark in 2024 to go 13-8.
A late push that included a sweep of North Lenoir, allowed East Duplin to finish second in the East Central 2A Conference, a season after falling to fifth place.
“No one gave us a chance to go 9-3 and wind up second in this conference,” said Panther coach Brandon Thigpen, who is 121-59 in nine seasons in Beulaville. “We played with a chip on our shoulder all year. “We had a chance to win every game we played except one.”
JP Murphy and Shawn Marshburn were the only Panthers to get a hit off Jackson Ward, who struck out 11, though Jack Tuck, Gavin Holmes and Calvin Harper reached base via walks.
But East Duplin never got a runner to third base against the Gators (21-5), though twice had
See BASEBALL, page B4
The Panthers fell one point short of a title last season, but were able to put second-place Manteo this time.
“I told Ja’Myah that we needed a minimum of 32 points from her,” said head coach Jeremy Joyner. “But this was a team win. Every girl we took except one was able to score at least a point.”
Pickett’s push produced 36 points from a possible total of 40.
The top four place-winners in each event qualify for the state tournament next week at NC A&T University. The 2A and 4A classes go on Friday and 1A and 3A on Saturday.
North Duplin’s Marcus Hill, Trashawn Ruffin and Tateyawna Faison each won an event and had other outstanding showings at the 1A MidEast Region in Burgaw.
Region title hype fills the air
“It’s very satisfying for all of us,” said Joyner in regard to the girls’ crown. “I was too nervous to look at the score and got updates from our coaches.
East Duplin had to perform without star sprinter Anamarie Rodriguez, which was a
See TRACK, page B3
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
ND’s Marissa Bernal tags out a Vance Charter runner at third base during the Rebels’ 5-0 win in the second round of the 1A playoffs.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
East Duplin head coach Jeremy Joyner and his girls’ track and field team captured the school’s first region title.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL JP Murphy fires the ball to third base in an attempt to throw out a base runner.
Defending champ Raiders tested by Panthers
No. 1 Midway slipped past No. 16 East Duplin during a stern second-round test
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
DUNN — Second-round games are not supposed to be so hard for a No. 1 seed.
Credit Morgan Brown for wearing the upset slipper.
Top-seeded Midway scratched out runs in the third and fifth innings last Friday and held on to beat No. 16 East Duplin 2-0.
Brown, a senior southpaw hurler, scattered seven hits and worked her way out of several jams to give the Panthers a fighting chance.
“Mo threw really well, and we went toe-to-toe with the best team in the East,” said ED head coach Greg Jenkins. “It was 0-0 in the fourth. We made them work for this one.
“We just couldn’t get it done with our bats against (Sarah) Autry.”
Autry lowered her ERA to an astounding 0.17 as only Rebecca Beach and Morgan made good enough contact to produce a hit.
Beached doubled in the opening inning but was left stranded.
have smacked eight homers by seven players.
Whack Redskins behind 11-hit attack
Brown had the first three-hit game of the spring in the first round and pitched the Panthers past Manteo 8-2 last Tuesday in Beulaville.
The senior whiffed nine and walked one, while firing 103 pitches in the direction of backstop Beach.
Callie Mewborn drove in her team-leading 20th run and Karsyn Parker and Leighton Davis also had run-scoring hits. Beach and Emory Raynor scored twice, while Kinsey Cave and Zoe Turner legged out triples.
ED scored twice in the first, third and fifth to go in front 6-0. The Redskins tallied two runs in the seventh. Parker, Beach and Cave finished up with averages near or above the .400 mark.
“We played outstanding softball, and their pitcher threw a nice mix of changeups and had a good riser,” said Jenkins, whose club finished 14-8 after going 9-3 in ECC play. “They have a real athletic team and can hit the ball.
a member of the NC Coaches Association’s Softball Hall of Fame.
“No doubt, our defense kept us in the game.”
“It was a great game to watch. Our defense right now is as good or better than any team I’ve had in terms of how few errors we made,” said the Panther coach who is 361-171 in 24 seasons and
Midway (18-2), which plays No. 9 Seaforth (16-6) in the third round, logged its ninth shutout of the season and have surrendered a mere 26 runs this spring.
The Raiders beat the Pan-
Caden Gavin, left, and Kaiden Liu signed college baseball letters of intent last week in front of their family, coaches and peers. WallaceRose Hill baseball coaches Brady Johnson, Logan Kissner and Bubba James posed as Liu signed with NC Wesleyan and Gavin at Southeastern Community College.
Gavin, Liu sign letter of intent to play baseball in college
Infielder Caden Gavin and pitcher Kaiden Liu will play collegiately at small North Carolina schools
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Wallace-Rose Hill baseball coach Logan Kissner calls Caden Gavin “a coach’s dream” and Kaiden Liu a pitcher that allowed his team to win any game he was on the mound.
The two Bulldog pillars will go their separate ways after graduation in June.
Liu and his right arm are headed to Rocky Mount to play at North Carolina Wesleyan, while shortstop/third baseman Gavin is taking his bat and glove to Southeastern Community College in Whiteville.
Both signed letters of intent
two weeks ago in the school’s media center.
“He’s so coachable and does what you ask,” Kissner said of Gavin. “He’s played every position. He was our leadoff guy because he could handle the pressure and find ways to get on base.
“He led us in on-base-percentage and was in the top 3 last year in stolen bases in the state. He’s a great kid who is getting an opportunity at a good school that is close to home.”
Gavin hit .358 the past two seasons with 55 stolen bases.
Southeastern went 14-32 this spring and plays schools from Pitt, Lenoir, Rockingham, Cumberland and Brunswick counties on its roster.
The Rams accumulated a teamwide 3.3 grade-point average this spring.
Liu, Mr. Baseball in 2024 in Duplin County, had 86 strike-
outs in 37 innings this season, going 4-2 with an ERA of 3.41. He had 84 whiffs in 46 innings in 2024, with a 5-2 mark and a 4.29 ERA.
The opposition hit .220 against him the past two seasons.
He hit .434 with six doubles, a triple, three home runs and 15 RBI He was at .482 with 10 extra base efforts and 22 RBIs as a junior.
Liu wants to continue his career on the hill for the Bishops, a Division 3 school tat went 3613 this spring and have won two national championships and a handful of regional titles as a member of the USA South Conference.
“If he listens to what they ask him to do I think he’ll be OK,” Kissner said. “He’s going to have to adjust, but he’ll be alright at the next level. When he get locked in he put us in position to win.”
thers twice last season – 4-1 and 10-7 – and have only lost to 3A Richlands (20-5) and 4A Scotland County (25-1). Both are playing third-round games this week in their respective classifications. Midway is also an offensive team with a .349 team average, with six players having 20 or more hits. The Raiders have belted 37 doubles, 19 triples and
the advantages we have is experience and our ability to hold on and make adjustments against their pitcher was big.”
No. 2 hitter Gabby Zamudio singled to right field with one out in the sixth to start the uprising.
Left fielder Kendall Ayscue misplayed a swirling ball hit by Higginbotham and Fulghum walked to load the bases.
Ady Smith made it 2-0 with a single and two more runs scored on a ground ball out by Abby Noris. No. 7 hitter Cadence Locklear’s singled to center gave North Duplin a five-run edge.
Fulghum recovered from an infield error leading off the seventh with three ground ball outs.
Second baseman Hannah Gonzalez reacted perfectly to a line drive to finish the first.
Right fielder Melany Sanchez had to run hard to the line to for a catch to end the second.
In the fifth, Rice hit a bullet that bounced off Fulghum and ricocheted to shortstop Higginbotham who raced to second and lunged to touch the base for a force out to thwart Vance Charter’s opportunity.
“We took advantage of some of their mistakes and that’s what good teams do,” Higginbotham said. “I thought they were a good team and that we just played better at key moments.
“We’re excited to face a good team in the fourth round. We know we’ll be tested and that mistakes will be amplified.”
And the Bears are a legitimate contender, having already beaten Perquimans, DH Conley, and Pamlico County and then running the table
Raynor and Brown were the lone senior starters. Furthermore, Turner and Beach are the only juniors, making the Panthers a team of the future.
That will likely be enhanced if sophomore all-Duplin shortstop Ava Noble can return from her ACL surgery and be the player she was as a freshman (.538, eight doubles, seven triples, two home runs).
on Atlantic Conference foes.
Running Rebels
Rice struck out five of the first 10 hitters she faced in her first three innings.
She got around a twoout triple in the opening inning by Addy Higginbotham by getting Fulghum to swing through a riser. She retired the side in order in the second and third yet wasn’t prepared to withstand the pressure put on her defense in the fourth.
Higginbotham reached first base on an infield hit and then swiped two bases while the Knights’ infield fell asleep. Fulghum hit a ball to third base and Lillian Beckwith froze. She looked Higginbotham back to the base but never threw the ball to first.
Ady Spence followed with a bunt for that plated the speedy Higginbotham and even though Fulghum was thrown out at the plate, North Duplin had a 1-0 lead.
Fulghum gave up two hits and three walks, while logging six strikeouts.
Dugout chatter
North Duplin scored five times in the opening inning and seven more in the third in a 15-0 opening playoff win over River Mill last Tuesday. Higginbotham and Fulghum are in the top 50 hitters in the state, average wise, all of which are over .600.
Fulghum is third in slugging percentage. Higginbotham has eight triples. Fulghum has seven homers.
North Duplin is hitting nearly .402 as a team.
Kylis Higginbotham is 66-16 in four seasons as the coach.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Morgan Brown laced four hits in her final two games for East Duplin.
SOFTBALL from page B1
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Wildcats nab 20th win, seek to continue playoff run
Richlands reached that win total in the fast-pitch format for the first time and could face No. 1 Southern Nash
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
RICHLANDS — Sweet is a 20-win season and a conference crown.
An added layer of sugar is making a run for a postseason title.
Richlands’ first 20-win campaign came when the No. 4 Wildcats beat No. 13 Cedar Ridge 10-0 last Friday, to earn a third-round assignment against No. 5 South Johnston, who has won 21 of 22 games this season.
No.1 Southern Nash (23-0) hosts No. 8 Eastern Alamance in the other East Region quarterfinal, meaning the Wildcats could have another home game if the Eagles (19-7) pull an off an upset.
Fourth-round games are Friday. The best-of-three region finals are next week.
Don’t count out the Wildcats, especially with Makenzie Goin, whose 270 strikeouts are the third-most in the state.
The senior right-hander whiffed 14 and gave up a hit and also had three hits and drove in a run.
Richlands, who has won 12 of its last 13 games, scored five runs in the first four innings and five more in the blowout sixth that forced the hammer to fall on the 10-run mercy rule.
Jordan Meece had three hits and scored twice and LeNayah Jackson two and drove in three.
Jailah Wilson added a pair of hits as Richlands (20-5) had a far easier day than it did during a 2-1 win over Coastal 3A foe White Oak in the opening round last Tuesday.
Addi Anderson had three hits and scored, and Cameron Cubas and Wilson drove in runs.
TRACK from page B1
concern Joyner had with the Panthers relay squads.
But ED’s 1,600-meter foursome of Tabor Holley, Anastan Holley, Zy’ashi Newton and Aubry Hall came in third and the 3,200 squad of Tabor and Anastan Holley, Kate Miller and Miranda Roblero were third.
Pickett took the discus with a 113-foot heave, shot with a 34-5 toss and triple jump by going to 34-111.5. The senior went 4-10 for second in the high jump.
“She was coming off not doing as well as she can at the conference tournament and I just told her to relax, perform normally and be yourself,” Joyner said. “Up to that time no one had ever beaten her in the ECC championships.”
Pickett, who was an all-Duplin basketball player the previous two years, showed her power and speed and ability to go from one field event to the next, often having little time to catch her breath after one before making her way to the next event.
“She didn’t have time to warmup, really,” Joyner said. “That’s what made some of what she did amazing.”
Pickett won the high jump and shot put and was second in the discus at the region meet in 2024 and was third in the shot and fourth in the discus at the state championships.
Bella Gaby (100 hurdles) and Alaina Delarosa (1,600) added fifth-place finishes, Jakayla Carr (300 hurdles) and Angela Hernandez (3,200) nothing sixth-place points and Mari Benetiez (800) and Ciarra Pickett (shot put) pitched in with eighth-place showings.
The Panther boys were led by Jordan Hall (fifth in the triple jump), Zachary Hall (sixth in the 300 hurdles) and Shawn Davis (seventh in the discus).
Ball, Landon Bond, Jordan Hall and Aaron Hall put together a 1:30.89 clocking in the 800 relay for fourth place.
Adrian Glover had the best performances from a Wallace-Rose Hill tracksters.
The sophomore was fourth in the long jump (20-9.5) and ran
Jackson was more of a menace to the Vikings by stroking a pair of slap hits through the infield.
Yet it was close the entire way.
Richlands scored single runs in the third and sixth frames off Alyssa Carkhuff. The junior hurler let the Wildcats put the ball in play and to their credit they made plays to keep it close. White Oak had just one error.
There was no way Goin was going to let the Vikings, who don’t have a senior starter, spoil her final playoff adventure. Richlands beat the Vikings 2-1 and 4-2 during the regular season. Fellow Coastal foe West Carteret lost 1-0 to South Johnston in the second round. The No. 12 Patriots (19-5) and Rich-
lands tied for the league flag, with the Wildcats winning a 2-1 thriller in a one-game playoff for league’s top seed in the 3A playoffs.
By the numbers
Jackson is hitting .410, Goin .324, Andrews .288, Cubas .273 and Wilson .261. Jackson’s 18 RBIs lead the team. Piper Turner has 14 and Andrews 11. Jackson is also the team leader in on-base-percentage (.460), slugging percentage (.628), extra-base hits (13) and runs (16).
Cubas and Meece have each crossed the plate 13 times.
Goin is 15-4 with a 1.02 ERA in 144.2 innings of work in the circle. She fanning 841 in 452 innings in the past four years.
Ja’Myah Pickett won three gold and one silver medal at the NCHSAA’s 2A East Region championships last Friday in Kinston.
a 10.66 in the 100 in the prelims, which was the fourth-fastest time.
Rebel threesome, relay team shine
Ruffin, who was third in the shot put and fourth in the discus at last spring’s state championships and who is going to play football at UNC in 2026, was first in the shot put 50-5.75) and second in the discus (125-7).
Hill placed in four events, going first in the 110 hurdles (15.67), second in the 300 hurdles (42.83) and triple jump (41-7) and fourth in the long jump (19-2). The senior finished fourth in the state last spring in the 110 hurdles while landing 10th in the 300 hurdles and 15th in the long jump.
Faison, who signed to play basketball at Fayetteville Tech after a 1,000-point career, won the 100 hurdles (16.94) and was third in the 200 (27.48).
Jair Quintana, Jayden Clemens, Luis Avilez and Carell Phillips ran 3:38.87 in the 1,600 relay race for second place and a new school record.
Donavan Armwood was fourth in the high jump (5-6).
Abby Rose came through with fourth-place honors in the 400 (1:06.73) as did Saniah McNeill in the 100 hurdles (19.57).
At the 3A regional at Wilson Fike, Richlands’ Tyler Clouarte grabbed silver medals in the 100 (10.95 and 200 (22.63), while Kamrey Watkins was runner-up in the girls 800 (2.21.36).
OF
Gavin Holmes
East Duplin, baseball
Gavin Holmes has been a model of consistency for the East Duplin baseball team the past two seasons. The sophomore hit safely in 18 of 22 games for a .352 average with 14 RBIs and 17 stolen bases. He raised his average from .308 in 2024, via five more hits, while also cutting his errors in half (from eight to four) playing one of the most difficult positions — shortstop. He had a .925 field percentage mark this spring.
Holmes went 3-1 on the mound and had two saves as a stable force to help the Panthers recover from a tough season in 2023 (10-14) to go 13-8 this season. This season he became a foundation piece for the program that head coach Brandon Thigpen can count on.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Makenzie Goin is the second-leading hitter for Richlands and ranks third in the state in strikeouts in the circle.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
SIDELINE REPORT
NFL
Saints QB Carr retiring due to “degenerative changes” in shoulder
New Orleans
The New Orleans Saints say veteran quarterback Derek Carr has decided to retire because of a labral tear in his right shoulder and “significant degenerative changes” to his rotator cuff. The 34-year-old Carr has played for 11 pro seasons. Carr was acquired by the Saints as a free agent in 2023 but had mixed results in New Orleans, going 14-13 as a starter while also struggling through oblique, hand and head injuries that caused him to miss seven games last season.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
FCS teams could be allowed to play 12 regular-season games every year
Indianapolis FCS teams would be allowed to play 12 regular-season games every year under a Division I Football Championship Subdivision Oversight Committee recommendation. The NCAA announced the onegame extension would go into effect in 2026 if the Division I Council gives its approval during its June 24-25 meeting. Current legislation permits 12 regular-season games in years when there are 14 Saturdays from the first permissible playing date through the last playing date in November.
MLB Astros’ McCullers receives threats directed at children after tough start
Houston Houston pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. received online death threats directed at his children after his tough start against the Cincinnati Reds. McCullers, who was making just his second start since Game 3 of the 2022 World Series, allowed seven runs while getting just one out in Houston’s 13-9 loss on Saturday night. Afterward, McCullers said he had received the threats on social media and that people had threatened to “stab my kids.” The Astros said that the Houston Police Department and MLB security had been alerted to the threats.
TAKE NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#25E001169-300 The undersigned, HENRY JARMAN, having qualified on the 7TH DAY of MAY, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of DAVID LEE COLE, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 15TH Day of AUGUST 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 15th Day of MAY 2025 HENRY JARMAN, ADMINISTRATOR 3900 E NC 24 BEULAVILLE, NC 28518 Run dates: M15,22,29,J5p
ACC cuts 20-game men’s basketball schedule to 18
The league hopes fewer games will allow more teams to make tourney
By Aaron Beard The Associated Press
THE ATLANTIC Coast Conference is hoping its men’s basketball programs trade two fewer league games for marquee nonconference matchups in an effort to reverse a dwindling haul of NCAA Tournament bids.
The league is reducing its 20 -game men’s basketball schedule to 18. The change comes after Commissioner Jim Phillips has been vocal about spending the past two seasons examining the conundrum of the ACC getting fewer bids — down to four this year, its fewest since 2013 — despite having teams regularly playing deep into March.
Going to 18 games could make room for schools to add quality nonconference matchups to help their schedule strength — and therefore the ACC’s stature, provided the league wins its share of measuring-stick games, unlike last year. It will shake up the scheduling model, which will mean ACC teams won’t face one league member each year.
In a statement, Phillips said the move is “a direct result of our ongoing strategic review and analysis” and gives them more control of scheduling by freeing up two slots. It also comes as the league implements a new revenue-distribution model that will factor in TV viewership in its pay-
BASEBALL from page B1
runners at first and second.
“The difference was getting a leadoff hitter on and getting a two-out hit,” Thigpen said.
“They did and we didn’t. Kyle was as good as he’s been all season. You have to string hits together and today we just didn’t do it.”
East Duplin, three years removed from its schoolbest 23-1 season, recovered from the loss of its best player (Baines Raynor) by getting standup performances from a number of inexperienced players and seniors who came up big in the clutch.
Leadoff hitter and shortstop Tuck (.339, 16 RBIs) was way more than a pleasant surprise.
So was outfielder Jesus Mojica, whose play was bigger than his stats (14 hits for a .222 average).
“Jesus was the heartbeat of our team,” Thigpen said. “If everyone had the heart he showed I would never worry about anything.
“Jack and JP were basically first-year varsity players and our left fielder Calvin (.271, 11 RBIs, 11 steals) had played baseball in two years, but had a real solid season.”
So did junior catcher Marshburn (.318, 13 RBIs) and senior outfielder Austin Rouse (.246, 17 RBIs) each both came through in critical times.
“Austin was a big two-out hit guy all year and Shawn was solid behind the plate and contributed greatly to the offense,” Thigpen said.
outs to league schools, which could offer even more incentive to schedule marquee opponents that fans want to watch to boost the bottom line.
“This decision reflects our on-going prioritization to do what’s best for ACC Men’s Basketball,” Phillips said, “and we appreciate the thoughtfulness of our membership and the support from our television partners.”
The new model will have the league schedule running from late December into the first Saturday of March. Each team will play one primary partner at home and away every year, with those pairings — such as famed rivals Duke and UNC
“This decision reflects our on-going prioritization to do what’s best for ACC Men’s Basketball.”
ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips
or instate opponents Virginia and Virginia Tech — designed to create some protection for long-running series. The others primary pairings are Boston College-Notre Dame, Clemson-Georgia Tech, California-Stanford, Florida State-Miami, Louisville-SMU,
NC State-Wake Forest and Pittsburgh-Syracuse. Each team also will play a home-and-away series against a partner that will change each year, then play one game against 14 of the remaining 15 teams.
It won’t be perfect. Aside from the fact that some teams won’t play each other, there are hiccups such as no guarantees that neighboring rivals UNC and NC State will have their typical home-and-away meetings; the Tar Heels and Wolfpack have played those every year reaching back to their Southern Conference days long before the ACC’s birth in May 1953.
Still, Phillips had been clear the league had to make changes to address the newfound shakiness in a sport widely and long regarded as its crown jewel.
The ACC had played an 18-game schedule from the 2012-13 season through 2018-19, then moved to a 20game slate for the 2019-20 season with its ESPN-partnered launch of the ACC Network. At the time, the ACC was coming off a fourth straight season with at least seven NCAA bids — including a record nine in 2017 and 2018 — while having three No. 1 seeds in 2019 and winning three of five national titles (Duke in 2015, North Carolina in 2017 and Virginia in 2019).
Things have been tougher since the pandemic.
The league had seven bids in 2021, then fell to five for three straight seasons before sliding to four this year, its first as an expanded 18-team basketball conference. By comparison, the ACC had 12 teams the last time it got just four bids in 2013. And yet the league also had both UNC and Duke in the Final Four in 2022, Miami there in 2023, NC State in 2024 and Duke again in April.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN
every game but one” it played this season en route to a second-place finish
While sophomore shortstop Gavin Holmes led the club in average (.352), extra-base hits (10), walks (14) and stolen bases (17) was clearly the Panthers’ best everyday player, senior first baseman Cain Graham drove in 14 runs and provided help on the mound.
So did Murphy, with Holmes being used as the fireman out of the bullpen. He went 3-1 and had two saves.
Yet East Duplin’s success was more about the many contributions of its “non-stars.”
“We beat teams with more talent and a good team can outplay a talented team,” Thigpen said. “This wasn’t
my most talented team, but what we did working together makes this group one of the best I’ve seen here in 11 years.”
Credit Thigpen, an assistant his first two seasons after playing for the Panthers and Methodist University for four seasons, for getting his players to buy into his team-ball concept. That development and the arrival of Kern as a strikeout king helped East Duplin return to its place among the better teams in 2A.
Rebels fall to Gators
North Duplin had a similar
problem during its first round assignment in the 1A playoffs.
Noah Price and Parker Anderson notched the Rebels’ only hits during a 12-0 loss to No. 12 East Columbus, which fell 13-12 to No. 4 East Wake in the second round.
The No. 20 Rebels lost their final five games (three to 2A schools) to finish 9-11, as Wesley Holmes (.346), Garris Warren (.298, team-high 20 runs), Noa Quintanilla (.300, 15 RBIs), Hunt Pate (.306) and Noah Price (.293, team-high in innings pitched) all had outstanding springs.
The good news is the Rebels graduate only Holmes and Pate.
JOURNAL
ED head coach Brandon Thigpen said his team was “in
in the ECC.
CHRIS CARLSON / AP PHOTO
Duke center Khaman Maluach and head coach Jon Scheyer celebrate with the trophy after winning the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.
obituaries
Gary Thomas Cook
June 5, 1956 – May 3, 2025
Gary Thomas Cook, 68, of Warsaw passed away on Saturday, May 3rd in Chapel Hill. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and community servant, Gary leaves behind a legacy of love, service and quiet strength.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Becky Rivenbark Cook. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family and dedication. He is also survived by his son, Thomas Cook and wife Jessica of Clinton; daughter, Betsy Cook of Warsaw; and his cherished grandson, Colton Ray Cook, who affectionately knew him as “Papa.” Colton was the apple of his eye, and Gary took great joy in spending time with him, especially attending his ball games.
He is also survived by his sister, Jo Ann Barrett; and brother, Jeff Cook and wife Eva.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Rifton Cook and Gladys Ann Cook.
Gary served as a law enforcement officer for 18 years, including four years as Chief of Police, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community. After his career in law enforcement, he transitioned to a maintenance role with Smithfield’s Hog Production, from which he retired.
A talented woodworker, Gary spent countless hours in his backyard shop, crafting pieces with skill and care. He was especially proud of his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America. An Eagle Scout himself, he served for many years as a Scoutmaster, mentoring and guiding countless young men—even beyond his own son’s achievement of Eagle Scout. Gary was honored with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award and was a member of the Order of the Arrow, testaments to his lifelong commitment to scouting and youth leadership.
Visitation was Monday, May 12th at Community Funeral Home in Warsaw, followed by a funeral service. Burial took place at Devotional Gardens in Warsaw. Gary will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to others and his unwavering integrity. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Andrew Dixon Jr.
March 7, 1932 – May 5, 2025
Mr. Andrew Dixon Jr., age 93, of Rose Hill passed away on Monday, May 5 at The Laurels of Pender in Burgaw.
A viewing was held on Monday, May 12 at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel in Rose Hill, followed by the funeral service. Burial was at Rose Hill Funeral Home Cemetery in Magnolia. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his wife, Daisy Batts Dixon of Rose Hill; two sons: Randy Dixon (Debbie) of Wallace and Bryon Dixon (Joyce) of South Carolina; one daughter, Anita Vann (Rick) of Fayetteville; three sisters: Edna Batts of Rose Hill, Mamie Baker of Raleigh and Martha Wells of Wallace; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-three great-grandchildren; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.
Audry (Willaford) Craft
July 2, 1958 – May 8, 2025
Audry Willaford Craft, age 66, of Wallace left this earthly life for her eternal rest on Thursday, May 8. She was in UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill
Audry was born on July 2, 1958, in Onslow County, the daughter of the late Garland and Helen Foy Willaford. Audry was also preceded in death by her son, Dwain Craft; her granddaughter, Courtney Ann Craft; and sister, Patsy Ward. Surviving to cherish her memory is her best friend and husband of 48 years, Jerald Craft of the home; sons, Jerald “Jerry” Craft and wife Alisha of Leland, Kirk Craft of Wallace; grandchildren, Kyleigh Craft, Billy Page Sue-Craft, ElizaBeth Sue-Craft and Audryanna SueCraft; sisters, Peggy Shepard of Charlotte, Barbie Simmons (Sinclair) of Concord and Donna Maready (Rex) of Chinquapin; brother, Douglas Willaford (Phyllis) of Nine Mile Community; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Audry dearly.
Audry was a devoted wife to Jerald and a caring mother, grandmother and sister. She enjoyed the simple things in life, but her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a quiet lady who had a gentle nature with a ‘spark’ when she needed it. She was a diligent homemaker and great cook. With a heart full of love and compassion, Audry saw the good in others. She was a hard worker who started her career at US Marine Corp Base in Camp LeJune as a housekeeper of the housing division. Due to her efficiency, determination and dedication, Audry excelled from the lowest level of housekeeping to the highest level during her 37 years of service. She became maintenance supervisor over the housing division and purchaser of furniture and details for housing on the base. During those years she prepared rooms and housing for many highranking generals and leaders of the United States Military. Audry was a hardworking, dedicated housekeeper and trustworthy employee who shared deep friendships with many during her years at Camp Lejune. Her favorite pastime was reading and spending time with her family. She and her sister Donna were like ‘two peas in a pod’. They enjoyed each other’s company and shopping, especially at Walmart. Audry was a true example of a Proverbs 31 woman who loved God deeply; a woman of strong faith. Treasured memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved Audry and she will be sorely missed.
Funeral service was held on Wednesday, May 14, at QuinnMcGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with the Reverend Dan Sellers and the Reverend Jan Fucili officiating.
The family received friends at the funeral home in the hour preceding services on Wednesday.
Martha (Blackburn) Hudson
May 1, 1936 – May 9, 2025
Martha Blackburn Hudson, 89, of Harrells passed from this life to her eternal rest on Friday, May 9. She was born on May 1, 1936 in Sampson County; the daughter of the late Claude Issac Blackburn and Nancy Boone Blackburn. Martha was also preceded in death by her best friend and husband of 67 years, James Thomas Hudson; her son, Thomas Ray Hudson; sisters Joyce Smith, Geneva Atkison, Bell Croom and Dorothy Herring; brothers Amos Blackburn, Wilbert Blackburn, David Lee Blackburn and Harold Blackburn. Surviving to cherish her memory are her devoted children, Linda H. Cole of Harrells, Twylar H. Harvell and friend Andy Burchfield of Harrells, and James Allen Hudson and friend Iris Costin of Maple Hill; grandchildren, Chuck Cole and wife Jennifer, Justin Ray Harvell, Allen Dwayne Hudson and wife Lorie, Jennifer Hernandez, Collin Trey Hudson and Austin Ray Hudson; several great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Martha dearly.
Martha was a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and sister. She found great joy in the simplest of things, but her greatest joy was family. She was a diligent homemaker and with a joyful spirit she filled her home with love and welcomed all who entered. Martha and Thomas loved to travel throughout the years and take the children to see many different sights in United States. Both Thomas and Martha loved blue grass music and attended many blue grass festivals during the years. Martha was a very talented guitar player. She could play and teach others to play. Martha enjoyed fishing, playing blue grass and spending time with her family. Coming from a family of nine children, she enjoyed the time she spent with her siblings and all her family. Martha was a kindhearted and loving woman who would do anything she could for others. She will surely be missed but treasured memories of her will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A private graveside funeral service was held at Harrells Cemetery in Harrells with Reverend Sammy Shepard officiating.
The family of Martha Hudson would like to thank the staff of The Gardens of Rose Hill and Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care they gave to Martha and to the family during her illness. You were truly a blessing.
Elizabeth Ann Piner Batts
May 14, 1943 – May 4, 2025
Elizabeth Ann Piner Batts, age 81, died Sunday, May 4 at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro. She is survived by her sons, Anthony Gene Batts of Reidsville, Timmy Ray Batts of Trinity; sisters, Carolyn Hopkins of Beulaville, Wanda Lanier of South Carolina; brother, J.E. Piner of South Carolina; four grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren.
Jonathan Michael Bartlett Sr.
Oct. 24, 1987 – May 7, 2025
Jonathan Michael Bartlett Sr. passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 7 at Wayne UNC Health Care as a result of an automobile accident following a long-term illness. He was lovingly welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior. Jonathan devoted his life to caring for others, working as a rehabilitation technician with RHA Health Services and Caring Heart Case Management. He was a faithful member of Purpose by Design Church, where he found strength and joy in worship.
Known for his big heart, Jonathan deeply loved his two sons, Jonathan Michael Bartlett Jr. and Ethan James Bartlett. He especially enjoyed playing basketball with them and creating cherished memories. He loved spending time with his family, particularly grilling with his baby brother, Matthew, and perfecting his secret barbecue sauce. He also treasured fishing trips with his big brother, Andy. Jonathan found joy in music—especially church rap—which reflected his vibrant and spirited personality. Even through his illness, he will be remembered for the exceptional care he gave to his mother. Jonathan is survived by his beloved sons; his mother and stepfather, Margaret Smith Hall and Daniel Kevin Hall; his father, Charles Eugene Bartlett; his brothers, Charles Andrew Bartlett, Matthew Justin Bartlett and wife Kayla; and his grandmother, Pearlie Kidd Smith. He is also survived by his cherished niece and nephews. He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Brittany Nicole Bartlett; his maternal grandfather and a father figure, Robert H. Smith; and his paternal grandparents, Alfred and Betsy Bartlett.
A service of love and remembrance was held on Wednesday, May 14 at Tyndall Funeral Home, with Apostle Denise Clarke officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. To honor Jonathan’s memory, the family invited all who attended to wear his favorite color—blue.
Jonathan’s legacy of kindness, faith, and devotion to his family will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Jean Cavenaugh Stephens
Nov. 7, 1946 – May 6, 2025
Jean Cavenaugh Stephens, 78, passed away on Tuesday, May 6 in ECU Duplin Hospital, Kenansville. She is preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Annie Mae Cavenaugh; son, Jason Stephens; sister, Ruth Brown; and brother, James Cavenaugh. She is survived by her daughter, Beth Cashwell (Glenn) of Warsaw; and grandchildren, Nelson Cashwell, Gina Cashwell, Haley Cashwell, Patrick Stephens, Kayla Jacobs and Mitchell Stephens. Visitation was held Saturday, May 10 at Unity Methodist Church in Warsaw. The family received friends at other times at the Annabeth Cashwell home in Warsaw.
Ruth Waters Whitfield
May 6, 1934 – May 7, 2025
In the early morning of Wednesday, May 7, Ruth Waters Whitfield departed from our midst and was received in the presence of the Lord. Her passing came as she was loved and cared for at Spring Arbor of Kinston.
Whitfield was a native of Duplin County’s White Flash community, being one of the daughters of the late Leslie and Donnie Grady Waters. She graduated from the B. F. Grady High School. Married to Joseph L. “Jay” Whitfield, a service man, she traveled the world with him as his assignments led them to various points. After his retirement, the couple settled in his native community, the Rones Chapel community, just outside of Mount Olive.
She was a member of Long Ridge Free Will Baptist Church where the congregation loved her, and of course, she loved them in return. She had worked at duPont Company for a few years, and also at Mount Olive Sportswear, but her main goal in life was to provide love and happiness for her family as she was a consummate homemaker, a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.
Whitfield leaves behind her three children, Kim Whitfield of Winterville, Toni Edwards of Grimesland, and John Whitfield and wife Valerie of Jamestown; sister, Ava Gray Price of the White Flash community, Mount Olive; five grandchildren, Garland Edwards and wife Ashley, Cody Whitfield, Trey Whitfield and wife Tristin, Kayley Whitfield, and Ashley Ziemer; greatgrandchildren, Kyndall Edwards, Cheyanne Edwards, Bryce Edwards, Caysen Edwards, and Audrey Rose Whitfield; several nieces and nephews; and her church family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph L. “Jay” Whitfield; parents, Leslie and Donnie Grady Waters; brother and sister-in-law, Ernest and Dorothy Waters; and brother-inlaw, L. L. “Bud” Price Jr.. The Whitfield family received friends at Tyndall Funeral Home on Saturday, May 10funeral services following. Officiating was her pastor, the Rev. Kelvin Coates. A private burial completed the service.
A special note of acknowledgment is extended to the fine staff of Spring Arbor of Kinston who provided Mrs. Whitfield love, compassion, and care, and a home away from home. They also appreciate the exemplary service of Gentiva Hospice as they brought comfort and peace to her in her waning days.
More obituaries on page B6
Betty Sue DeLuca
May 26, 1943 – May 8, 2025
Betty Sue Deluca passed away peacefully Thursday May 8 at the age of 81 after a long battle with Alzheimers. She was born in New Bern on May 26, 1943.
Visitation was held Tuesday, May 13 at Fellowship Church of God, Rose Hill. A funeral service was held at the church; burial followed the service in Devotional Gardens.
Betty was a sweet and gentle spirit. She lived her life each day worshiping God and sharing his word. She is now reaping the pay off of years of spiritual obedience. No more earthly pain and anguish, only peace and harmony of God’s promise to us all. Now she is back with the love of her life “Baby Ray” in the presence of our lord.
Betty is survived by her sons, Tony Tucker and wife, Cindy; and Bobby Tucker and wife, Regina; as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Silvio Ray DeLuca; father, Elwood Wetherington; mother, Christine Caton; son, David Tucker; brothers, James Wetherington and Robert Wetherington; sister Virginia Rill; and Horace and Blonnie Mae Byrd, who played a vital role in her life.
James Scott Heath
March 31, 1971 – May 7, 2025
James Scott Heath, 54, of Beulaville passed away at his home on May 7.
Born on March 31, 1971, in Petersburg, Virginia, he was the son of Elijah and Lynn Heath and a brother to Barbara Heath.
Scott was a dedicated machinist and computer programmer who loved listening to music, playing guitar, and watching sports. He was known for his sharp mind, great sense of humor, and his devotion to his faith and his family. If you had a problem, Scott was the one you could count on. Scott shined in moments big and small—like the time his nephew spent two months trying to solve a 2x2 Rubik’s Cube, only for Scott to finish it in ten minutes. His ability to make others laugh while impressing them was just part of his charm. Scott never gave up, no matter the challenge, and he remained the rock of the Heath family.
Scott is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer Heath, and his son, Camden Heath, who carry forward his love and memory. He was preceded in death by his son, Branson Scott Heath.
He is also survived by his nephews, Bryan Jones (Ami) of Pink Hill and Devin Jones of Beulaville; and great-nephews, Brayden Jones and Kaleb Jones. Funeral service was held Saturday, March 10 followed by visitation at the Community Funeral Home in Beulaville. Graveside Service was held Sunday, May 11 at the KennedyCole Cemetery in Beulaville.
Mount Olive students recognized for their achievements
Jessica Ruiz-Castro (left), a senior majoring in art education at the University of Mount Olive, received the Senior Citizenship Cup award. The award honors individuals who exemplify the spirit of civic responsibility. Catherine Summerlin (right), also a senior at Mount Olive, was awarded the prestigious Psychology Student of the Year title. As a psychology major, Summerlin demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and remarkable clinical proficiency.
