Unity, play shine at Warsaw’s community park event
Suspects wanted in coordinated lottery ticket thefts
Duplin County
The Warsaw Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying three suspects involved in coordinated thefts of lottery tickets and prepaid Visa gift cards in Eastern North Carolina. Between June 20-21, two black males and one black female, all in their 20s, fraudulently obtained activated lottery tickets and gift cards using nonfunctional Cash App or YouTube cards, according to police. The thefts took place in Duplin, Onslow, and Sampson counties, including Beulaville, Warsaw, Jacksonville and Clinton, using a white Volkswagen SUV with Florida plates. Images of the suspects were captured and are available on the Warsaw PD Facebook page. Anyone with information should contact the department at 910 -293-7816 or Jacksonville Crime Stoppers at 910-938-3273, or via text at 274637 using the code TIP4CSJAX.
Friday nal day for candidates to le for November elections
Duplin County
The candidate ling period for the 2025 municipal elections closes at noon on Friday. Those interested in running should contact the Duplin County Board of Elections for details. The 2025 municipal elections will be on Nov. 4.
Local man wins $200K in lottery
Richlands
Last week Amir Dickerson of Richlands won a $200,000 prize after purchasing a $5 Mega Bucks ticket. The announcement made by the North Carolina Education Lottery stated this was Dickerson’s rst time purchasing a scratch- o . Dickerson collected his prize last week and, after required state and federal tax withholdings, he took home $143,501.
Bank of America reports $7.12B net income in Q2, surpasses earnings expectations
Charlotte Bank of America Corp. on Wednesday reported second-quarter net income of $7.12 billion. The company said it had earnings of 89 cents per share. The results surpassed Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of 10 analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of 86 cents per share. The nation’s secondlargest bank posted revenue net of interest expense of $26.46 billion, which did not meet Street forecasts.
$2.00
Warsaw families came together Saturday afternoon for a joyful celebration at the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Center. The Community Fun in the Park event o ered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where families laughed, played and had the opportunity to join in friendly volleyball matches. Turn to B6 for more photos.
Wallace seeks federal funds to raze old school
The board hopes to transform the blighted school site into a future housing opportunity
By Curt Simpson For Duplin Journal
IN AN EFFORT to clean up a hazardous and unsightly old school building, Wallace leaders voted last Thursday to seek federal funding to help cover most of the estimated $265,000 cost of the project.
The old C.W. Dobbins School building at 908 N. Teachey Road sits among weeds, vines, trees and trash on almost 3.5
acres of land that o cials believe could be better used for housing in town. The building, which has not been used as a school for decades, is nearly invisible, save the tall red brick chimney, from North Teachey Road due to overgrowth and neglect. Much of the building’s roof has collapsed, and most of the windows and doors are broken, with shards of glass litter the ground.
The town must rst complete the purchase of the property from an organization known as Christians of Faith Teaching Ministries, which,
See WALLACE, page A5
Wallace Mayor Jason Wells administers the oath of o ce to Police O cer Ralph Amitrano Jr., as Ralph Amitrano Sr., holds the Bible for the swearing in ceremony.
New retirement proposal faces scrutiny over costs
Warsaw faces $115,000 in wastewater nes as o cials push back on secrecy claims
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
WARSAW — A proposal to install a four-way stop at one of Warsaw’s busiest intersections sparked spirited debate at the latest town board meeting, as o cials weighed rising crash reports on Memorial Drive and Hill Street against longstanding frustrations with state inaction and broader concerns about infrastructure, safety and town planning.
Town Manager Lea Turner explained that due to an increase in accidents at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Hill Street, a Warsaw o cer made a request to the North Carolina Department of Transportation to conduct investigations on a fourway stop at that intersection.
“DOT has sent me the information in reference to their investigation. I’ve attached that
Quiet races, erce battles shape municipal election season
“The availability of safe, ample parking and drive-up curbside voting service at the Wallace precinct would better serve the voters.” Carrie Sullivan
Incumbents lead lings across Duplin County
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — As Duplin County nears Friday’s candidate ling deadline for the Nov. 4 Municipal Election, a contrasting picture is emerging among the electorates — one marked by quiet incumbency and uncontested seats, and the other marked by competitive shakeups and a surge of new challengers.
In Beulaville, incumbents are holding their ground, with longtime Mayor Michael “Hutch” Jones and Commissioner Delmas Highsmith both facing no new challengers. The town’s trend of minimal electoral competition is likely to persist, as seen in previous elections.
Similar patterns can be observed in Greenevers, Kenansville, Magnolia and Teachey, where no opposition has yet emerged. Each of these towns has only one candidate so far despite multiple seats open. In Greenevers, incumbents Gregory Carr and Timothy Murphy have led for reelection. In Kenansville, Commissioner Linda Tyson is seeking to retain her position. Magnolia’s incumbent, Jeanine Cavenaugh, has led for reelection. In Teachey, Commissioner Danny Sutton is looking to keep his seat as well. Historical trends in some of these towns have shown spikes in competition, particularly around contentious local issues such as infrastructure, suggesting that surprises may still occur before the Friday deadline. Calypso also shows signs
email,” said Turner, explaining that DOT responded that a fourway stop could be implemented if the town passed a resolution. Some board members expressed doubt about whether this intersection warranted such a measure, arguing that other intersections, particularly one near Friendly Mart, were more dangerous. The board discussed alternatives like ashing caution lights or motion-activated signals at the stop signs. Several members expressed frustration with DOT’s past rejections of similar safety measures at other intersections. Ultimately, the group agreed to request further studies and possibly pursue warning lights instead of a four-way stop at the Memorial and Hill intersection.
Commissioner Al Searless spoke about a roundabout that was once proposed by DOT, but the town rejected it due to heavy truck tra c. Several members of the board believe the decision may have delayed
THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
See WARSAW, page A5
CURT SIMPSON FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
O ce Phone: 910 463-1240
To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
CRIME LOG
July 9
• Steven Ray Harrell, 49, was arrested by Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce for possessing a rearm as a felon.
• Beth Kennedy, 66, was arrested by DCSO for assault with a deadly weapon in icting serious injury and resisting a public o cer.
• Alex Malik Lisane, 27, was arrested by DCSO for hit and run leaving the scene with property damage, driving with a revoked license, and using a ctitious or altered title, registration card, or tag.
• Milton Selin Munguia-Nunez, 24, was arrested by DCSO for possessing with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, possessing marijuana between 1/2 and 1 1/2 ounces, possessing drug paraphernalia, and felony possession of cocaine.
• Rhiannon Kay Willoughby, 44, was arrested by DCSO for tra cking in methamphetamine.
July 10
• Raheem Christopher Rogers, 32, was arrested by DCSO for failing to report a new address as a sex o ender.
July 11
• Felicia Orday Best, 36, was arrested by Beulaville PD for felony possession of cocaine, possessing drug paraphernalia, second-degree trespassing, misusing the 911 system, and resisting a public o cer.
• Henna Louise Burke, 38, was arrested by DCSO for driving without an operator’s license and hit and run leaving the scene with property damage.
• Tajuan Lamarr Davis, 24, was arrested by DCSO for simple assault.
• Terry Leon Highsmith, 53, was arrested by DCSO for assault in icting serious injury and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
• Thomas Lee Washington, 74, was arrested by Kenansville PD for failing to register as a sex o ender.
July 12
• Luis Perez Cabrera, 19, was arrested by North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP) for driving while impaired, driving after consuming alcohol under 21, resisting a public o cer, and providing ctitious information to an o cer.
• Antwan Gregory Carr, 20, was arrested by Wallace PD for breaking and entering a motor vehicle, damaging personal property, misdemeanor larceny, and possessing stolen goods.
July 13
• Mario Ricardo Cuevas-Padilla, 22, was arrested by DCSO for assault with a deadly weapon in icting serious injury.
THURSDAY
17
SATURDAY
FRIDAY
Beulaville water project nears completion
Social services advocate shares resources for families and the elderly
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
BEULAVILLE — Wendy
Henderson addressed the Beulaville town board on behalf of the Duplin County Department of Social Services at the board’s monthly meeting last week. Henderson’s presentation highlighted the various ways the community can bene t from DSS services.
“Our goal is to provide eligibility for public assistance programs, as well as help alleviate human su ering, protect children, disabled adults and elderly adults to help them become self-su cient,” Henderson said.
Some of the services available include food nutrition, Work First, medical assistance, day care assistance, low-income energy assistance, crisis assistance, program integrity, medical transportation and social services. Henderson encouraged the community to contact DSS either by coming in person to 423 N. Main Street in Kenansville, or by calling 910 -296-2200. Henderson left pamphlets at the town hall and answered questions from the board about services available for speci c groups, such as refugee assistance.
Interim Town Manager Lori Williams and Public Works Director Ricky Raynor summarized their report on services used and gave updates on the water line project. They reported that the project is almost done with tie-ins and will start cutting all the old lines next.
“Within two to three weeks, they should be cutting up asphalt, cleaning it up and pouring concrete,” town o cials said.
Concerns about potholes were addressed, and it was clari ed that some of the areas of concern were outside of the town limits. Chief of Police Jamie Rogers reported that the Beulaville Police Department will have two positions opening July 21.
Williams then requested and received board approval to submit disbursement requests to the state on behalf of the Division of Water Infrastructure-funded projects, CDBG grant assistance from Adams Company, and Town Attorney Justin Hunter to continue his services. Mayor Hutch Jones asked for clarity on communication with the public concerning code enforcement, sign regulations, tickets, recycling bins and the transition to County Animal Control for animal problems. Williams reported that communication has been improving, less tickets are having to be written and the town’s updated website (with access to all the information) will be available soon.
The board discussed the pros and cons of food trucks and whether or not an ordinance should be considered to limit their activity in the town because of how they may negatively impact existing businesses. Williams stated there were no zoning issues involved and no laws prohib -
iting their operation as long as they had the landowners’ permission. Hunter believed there might be options available to help regulate food truck businesses. Hunter and Williams agreed to meet later to discuss possible legal solutions.
The board then discussed a cleared lot on West Church Street that remains partially uncleared following demolition.
Public Works said the lot debris had been buried and has settled. He a rmed that the only option is to keep hauling in dirt to cover it and level it out.
During the meeting, public comments were invited, and a constituent inquired about recycling bins. Jones announced that the blue recycling bins are delivered weekly for an additional fee of $1.50 per month. The new service started July 9. The bins are the same size as the trash bins and are used to collect recyclables in bulk. These recyclables are transported to a facility in Jacksonville for sorting and recycling. Both trash and recycling bins are collected by automated trucks rather than individual labor. Therefore, residents should place the bins 12-24 inches away from the road to ensure the trucks have enough space to pick them up.
Eagle Scout candidate awarded $3K for crisis relief trailer project Eagle Scout candidate Miller Ludlum (right), 15, of Wallace was awarded a check for $3,000 by Woodmen Life Chapter 923 members (pictured from left to right) Harvey Knowles, David Patterson and Tony Horne on Monday afternoon. The money is going toward the purchase and out tting of Ludlum’s Eagle Scout project, a crisis relief trailer for use during natural disasters and other emergencies. Ludlum said he was inspired to start the project after seeing the need for the equipment during relief e orts following Hurricanes Florence and Helene. Anyone wishing to donate funds or tools to out t the crisis relief trailer can call 910-296-4039.
WEDNESDAY
DUPLIN happening
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:
July 17
Summer Fun Day 2-4 p.m.
The Warsaw Police Department is hosting a Summer Fun Day on Thursday from 2-4 p.m. at Warsaw Parks and Recreation. This free event is designed for elementary and middle school-aged children and will include two waterslides, a DJ, games, free refreshments and more. For more details, please call 910-293-7816, ext. 2. 309 Memorial Drive, Warsaw
July 18
Fun Friday 11 a.m.
The Duplin County Library is hosting family-friendly activities this summer as part of their Fun Friday events at the Ed Emory Auditorium. On July 18, join them for Mad Science at 11 a.m. For details, call 910-296-2117.
165 Agriculture Drive, Kenansville
Veterans stand down 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Free meals for veterans will be o ered at the Duplin County Veterans Stand Down event on July 18 at the Charity Mission Center. Additionally, the Disabled American Veterans mobile unit will be available on-site. Duplin veterans who need transportation to the event can call 919-738-2006 by June 30.
1333 W. Charity Road, Rose Hill
July 25
The Cookie Lady 11 a.m.
Get ready for a treat and join the Library’s Fun Friday on July 25 at 11 a.m. at the Ed Emory Auditorium. Enjoy a delightful morning with The Cookie Lady, an event perfect for the entire family. For more details, call 910-296-2117.
165 Agriculture Drive, Kenansville
Got a local event? Let us know and we’ll share it with the community here. Email our newsroom at community@duplinjournal. com. Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
The Beulaville town board discussed its new recycling service rollout, which started on July 9.
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Faison addresses issues at July meeting
The board accepted Commissioner Carlton Lee Kennedy’s resignation and appointed former mayor Carolyn Kenyon to ll his seat
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
FAISON — The Faison town board reviewed old business, including prior meeting minutes, nancial updates and preparations for the town’s 250th anniversary celebration at its July 9 meeting.
The Parks and Recreation budget was discussed, comparing last year’s costs and outcomes to this year’s, with an overall taxpayer cost of $112,000.
“If you look at everything that is o ered over there, $112,000 doesn’t seem like a whole lot,” Ward said. Executive Administrator Jimmy Tyndall mentioned some tweaks to Parks and Recreation were in the works that would help the budget come in lower next year.
In new business, Mayor Billy Ward read Commissioner Carlton Lee Kennedy’s resignation letter. Kennedy had to resign because he is moving out of the area. The board accepted his resignation and voted to appoint Carolyn Kenyon, a former mayor, to ll the last two years of his term.
Amanda Hall, a supervisor at Duplin County Social Services (DSS), made a presentation concerning the services available to the community.
“We are doing community outreach, letting towns outside of Kenansville know what we have available for the whole county,” Hall explained.
DSS has various economic support services, including help with energy bills and medical transport. People can access services by coming to the o ce at 423 N. Main Street in Kenansville or by calling 910 -296-2200 for more information.
Ward read another resignation letter from Parks and Rec employee Crystal Mendez, and the board approved it. The board approved hiring one part-time employee, Luke Hall, and one full-time employee, Nathan Holland, for the Parks and Rec Department.
Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Scott gave updates concerning projects and activities. An estimate of $2,135 was approved and is in the budget for awning repairs. Adult vol-
leyball was well received and nished its season in time for basketball to start. Basketball practices are on Monday. Games every Sunday in August will work well with everyone’s summer plans, according to Scott.
Fall soccer and volleyball sign-ups have opened and will remain open until the rst week of September. The board approved that registration will be $50 per child to play in sports starting this fall. Afterschool will continue at $45 a week except for spring break and Christmas.
Ward presented the renewal contract for Town Attorney Joey Ezzell.
“We’ve been really happy with his services and we want to continue that,” Ward said. “We appreciate what he does for us and the town.”
The contract was presented for the same amount of money
Amanda Hall
as last year’s, and the board voted unanimously to approve it.
Town Clerk Sharon Lee presented town nances in savings accounts at various banks and made recommendations concerning the CDs at United Bank. The board voted to renew $1 million at 4.4% interest at United Bank for seven months and deposit accrued interest into the general fund.
The town’s Christmas party was discussed. It was decided to host it on the rst Friday in December at 11 a.m. with The Farmhouse catering. To nish out the 2024-25 budget, a few amendments were presented and approved. For the new scal year, Kornegay Insurance was approved for $3,409.75. The cafeteria plan resolution was also approved for the new scal year. The board also voted for Anne Letchworth to be the town’s tax collector for the new scal year.
Delinquent tax listings were discussed. All were sent letters from the town attorney and remain unresponsive. The board discussed their options toward foreclosure and when would be
the best time to take action on the past due accounts. Most accounts will be followed up on by Letchworth.
Tyndall explained the need to appropriate funding for a backhoe. Funding was already made available in the previous budget, it just needs to be moved to the new scal year. The board approved a resolution for the backhoe and a work shelter.
Estimates for a new LED sign were approved for $19,000.
The board discussed hiring Bradley Braswell for the single vacancy in Public Works. They approved his hire as well as the transfer of his accrued sick time from working for the town of Mount Olive.
Ward requested that the September board meeting be moved to Sept. 10, and the board approved it.
Tyndall discussed the need to repave Southwest Center Street toward Goshen Medical Center. Explaining the spider web cracking and drainage issues ooding the area, he said the board “needed to decide if it’s going to spend its money on band aids or the cure. I’m going to spend money on SW Center Street one way or the other.”
The crew will cut out and rebuild the road in wedges, xing the spider webbing as well as water ow issues that would have ooded Goshen. The board approved the repair for $58,250. The funds were made available in the street repair and maintenance budget.
The board meeting adjourned following this discussion.
Push to reopen Holland rehouse gains momentum
Without enough volunteers for the re substation, local insurance rates stay high
By Mark Grady
For Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — Twen-
ty residents of what locals refer to as the Outlaw Store area of Duplin County gathered in the fellowship hall of Unity Methodist Church on Monday night to discuss the possibility of reopening the volunteer re department at the corner of West Wards Bridge Road and Holland Road, known as the Holland Station. The Kenansville Fire Department’s substation was forced to close several years ago due to a lack of manpower.
As a result of this closure, homeowner insurance rates in the area have increased, impacted by a re protection rating of 10 issued by the North Carolina Department of Insurance. To positively a ect insurance rates, the state requires an active re department sta ed with at least four volunteers within six road miles of a home.
Ricky Deaver, a 40-year volunteer re ghter and resident in the area, believes the Holland Station is needed.
“It needs to be reopened,” Deaver told Duplin Journal. “But it’s going to take people. Currently, we just don’t have enough. You can have all the
money and all the equipment you want to have, but the most important thing you need is dedicated people. I can remember when the re department had a cap of 45 members and there was a waiting list.”
Deaver blames societal changes for the challenge of getting people involved.
“Whether it’s the re department, the Rotary Club or just about anything, volunteerism is a dying breed,” Deaver said.
Area resident Rachel Holland said she recalled days when nding people willing to help at the local re department began at a young age.
“I remember way back when there was (nothing) for kids to do in this area,” she said. “When they got to be 16, they hung out at the re department. They wanted to. They’d become junior remen, and then they’d become regular remen at 18. They would stay on for years.”
Duplin County Fire Marshal Matthew Barwick opened the meeting on an encouraging note.
“I hope we can have an open discussion to make sure everyone knows what the expectations are from the public’s side, from the re department’s side and from the county’s side to see if we can get together and make this dream come true,” Barwick said.
Kenansville Fire Chief Robert Whitman emphasized that the key to making that dream a
reality centers on one thing — people.
“The biggest thing we need is personnel,” Whitman said. “The state says we have to have a certain amount of people to sta that station. If we don’t have enough to sta it, it will cost the taxpayers’ money, but you won’t get anything out of it. We’re going to have to have the support of the community.”
“All of us would like to see (Holland Station) come back,” Barwick added.
According to Whitman, the main Kenansville station
must have 15 active members to meet state requirements. A substation like Holland Station would require ve active members.
Whitman said that while volunteer re ghters don’t get paid, they hope to encourage more people to volunteer by emphasizing the many bene ts of serving their local re department. One of those is a life insurance policy.
“We get money from the state to help pay for the policies,” Whitman said.
The policy pays a death bene t of $250,000 to the family
of a volunteer re ghter who dies within 24 hours of responding to a re call, in addition to other bene ts paid under the policy.
Active volunteers who remain a member of the department for at least 20 years also receive a special retirement pension of approximately $170 per month.
Whitman stressed the most important bene t of being a member of a local re department is the camaraderie.
“Once you get in there, you’ll nd out it’s a brotherhood,” Whitman said. “We look after one another. If one’s sick, we’re all sick.”
Everyone in the community is hoping to attract more interest from young people like Hunter Whitman. Hunter is already training to become a re ghter and will o cially join the Kenansville Fire Department when he turns 18 in September. His inspiration is his family. His uncle is Chief Whitman.
“I grew up around the re station,” Hunter told Duplin Journal. “My dad, my grandparents and my uncle all have had a part in the re department. It’s something I wanted to do.”
A follow-up meeting has been scheduled for Sept. 29 at the Kenansville Fire Department in hopes of attracting those who may be interested in becoming members.
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL The Faison town board approved $58,000 for Southwest Center Street repairs during its July 9 meeting.
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Duplin County Fire Marshal Matthew Barwick welcomed members of the Outlaw Store area to a meeting Monday night to discuss what would be needed to reopen the Holland Station Volunteer Fire Department.
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
Mainstream manipulation and the War for the American mind
We are left to conclude that never have we been so prosperous in terms of worldly thing.
GENERATION after generation has responded successfully to Benjamin Franklin’s warning in his answer to Elizabeth Powel’s question on September 1787 about what kind of government they had established. His answer, “A Republic, if you can keep it.”
There have been many evil persons attempting to destroy the divinely inspired work of those noble founders. There are now many evil persons and organized groups still intent on “fundamentally changing America.” That phrase sounds so innocent, doesn’t it?
What are their names? Mark 5:9 (KJV) records the Savior asking a question of the evil spirit who was tormenting a man. “What is thy name?” asked the Savior. The answer, “My name is Legion: for we are many.” One needs only to occasionally watch the national news to conclude there are many evil forces trying to destroy America. They have all but a few mainstream media organizations supporting their e orts with ultra-liberal, biased reporting. Thank heaven for Duplin Journal and North State Journal.
We have had one horrible Civil War and two terrible World Wars that have soaked the ground and lled the oceans with the blood of patriots, trying to keep it. There have been other wars and rumors of wars facing the nations of this Earth on a daily basis. Certainly,
COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN
Values in action
It is not enough to use buzzwords or pay lip service to lofty ideals if we are not willing to let our actions be shaped by those values.
“GIVE ME YOUR TIRED, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
These words by poet Emma Lazarus are engraved on a plaque on the inner wall of the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal. Lazarus wrote her poem, “The New Colossus,” for the fundraising e orts for the pedestal. Her poem was not placed in the pedestal until 17 years after the statue’s dedication and 14 years after Lazarus’ death.
On Oct. 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland and dignitaries gathered in New York City for festivities surrounding the dedication of the Statue of Liberty. That night, after dinner at Delmonico’s restaurant, Frédéric Coudert, a prominent New York lawyer, o ered remarks in which he compared the symbolism of the statue to the Sermon on the Mount. He said, “I will say that this statue, with no sword, but the torch raised on high,
the e ects of natural disasters in diverse areas temporarily grab our attention, and then it is back to life as normal.
However, our Republic may now be facing its most formidable challenges: extreme prosperity combined with many avors of progressivism, accelerating moral decay, and enemies within who are antagonistic, hostile and work in opposition to our founding principles.
Evil forces have slowly but surely in ltrated and indoctrinated institutions founded to inform, educate and pass to the next generations the knowledge and wisdom of prior generations.
John Calvin observed, “Men are undoubtedly more in danger from prosperity than from adversity. For when matters go smoothly, they atter themselves, and are intoxicated by their success.” In 1838, Abraham Lincoln observed, “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroy ourselves.”
By casual observation, we are left to conclude that never have we been so prosperous in terms of worldly things. Certainly, we see that the new morality is really no morality at all and that decline is accelerating.
More and more frequently these days, I am prone to interject the phrase “Granny told me” or “Granny said” into a variety of conversations with family, friends or colleagues in the political
arena. Sometimes, when I don’t exactly remember who gave some good advice, I will cover the plagiarism base by saying, “Granny said.”
Almost all the wise folks whose paths I have crossed personally or through their literature are someone’s Granny or Papa. Now being called Papa, I know from personal experience wisdom accumulates as one advances from child to parent to grandparent.
More than a few folks have advised those of a younger generation thusly: “The older I get, the smarter my parents become.” The Latin phrase “Ut Est Rerum Omnium Magister Usus” is attributed to Julius Caesar and is translated as “Experience is the best teacher.” My Granny characterized experience as the only successful teacher.
We have strayed from successfully passing on that which is good to the next generations. The so-called progressive movement has turned into the “Hate anything that is good about America movement.” Remember, “Lies can travel around the world while the truth is strapping on its boots.”
We, the people should join President Donald Trump and his e orts to “Make America great again.”
Rep. Jimmy Dixon (R-NC04) represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.
so that all can see it, typi es all that is most striking in moral and religious instruction. It is a poem which anyone can understand without being a poet.”
One commentator noted, “In this way Coudert connected the great new monument with the struggles and ideals of the earliest European immigrants to the American continent and with their ardent wish to create a better and more just society.”
The recently conducted Gallup -Aspen Ideas American Values Index survey indicated that more than 75% of American adults agree on these most important values: respect, family, trustworthiness, freedom, kindness, health, integrity and happiness. In a discussion about these survey results, columnist David Brooks said, “I think about values di erently. I don’t think you can get somebody’s values by giving them a buzzword like family or faith. A value to me is a constellation of moral principles. So the Sermon on the Mount is a value system. The last shall be rst. The meek shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are the poor in spirit. I don’t think you could just give people a list of words and nd out what the core of their moral values are.”
Coudert and Brooks touch on the importance of living out one’s deepest hopes and beliefs. It is not enough to use buzzwords or pay lip service to lofty ideals if we are not willing to let our actions be shaped by those values. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned against false prophets and taught, “You will know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:16) We can turn that teaching around and apply it to our individual lives and our life in community. What we really value — our constellation of moral principles, if you will — will be known by the fruits we bear, both individually and as a nation. If we really value liberty and justice for all, as we say in the Pledge of Allegiance, we must be diligent in our e orts to secure and protect those values for all.
Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.
COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON
any major safety improvements at that location.
Another commissioner noted that Friendly Mart has been under discussion for over 25 years, yet meaningful changes have not been implemented, and more recent DOT scoring and prioritization e orts have failed to place the intersection high on the list.
The idea of a roundabout was once ahead of its time, being part of a very early statewide rollout. Unfortunately, a lack of public understanding of roundabouts at the time led to resistance. Now with more municipalities adopting such tra c designs successfully, there may be renewed interest.
“I sit on the DOT Transportation Advisory Council, and I have not seen anything at the meeting where they’re scoring points for a project,” said Mayor A.J. Connors. “Many other places are getting bicycle lanes and all the other things, and changing routing of 24 in some areas, but have not seen anything in that area.”
The town plans to send a renewed request to DOT, hoping to bring attention back to the intersection and reconsider possible improvements.
Turner also spoke about the need for a retirement policy. Previously, town retirees with 25 years of service and age 62 quali ed for medical coverage until age 65, after which they would transition to Medicare supplements. That policy was rescinded in 2022, and currently, the town has no formal retirement policy in place, although some employees remain grandfathered under the old rules.
The town manager proposed a tiered retirement plan with three levels: full medical benets for 30 years of service at any age, partial bene ts for those with 25 years and age 62, and Medicare-only support for 20 years and age 65. While this plan is more generous than the previous one, some board members raised serious concerns
ELECTIONS from page A1
of continuity. Although Rodney Lambert Jr. has led, key incumbents, including Mayor JoAnn Wilson, have not as of press time. The current lack of lings so far hints at another uncontested cycle unless last-minute candidates step in.
On the other hand, Faison appears to be set for a competitive election cycle with four candidates already in the race — including incumbent Sandy McCarty, Juan Carlos Quintanilla, Alane Brewer Floyd, and Joanie Babcock vying for three commissioner seats. As of press time, Mayor Billy Ward, Commissioners Christy Allen and Sherry Franklin had not yet led, but Faison’s past elections have often drawn a strong eld, and more challengers may still emerge. Rose Hill remains quiet for now, with no candidates in sight.
In Wallace, incumbents like Mayor Jason Wells, Councilwoman Tasha Herring-Redd and Councilman Jason Davis have led to retain their seats, but given the town’s developing infrastructure and ongoing projects, it is anticipated that more candidates will join the race.
about cost and sustainability, particularly the unlimited liability of covering health care for potentially decades if someone retires at 50. They noted that most municipalities and even the state are moving away from early retirement coverage due to rising health care costs.
“I just question whether we can a ord 30 years at any age,” said Searles. “If you’ve got somebody who starts at age 20 and they go 30 years and they turn 50, you’re talking about paying their insurance for a lot of years. I don’t know of any program that does that. In fact, I know the state has pulled back a lot of the retirement programs because retirement programs will break a budget.”
“This is open as a suggestion for tonight. And it is something for you to consider and evaluate so that we can come back at a later date,” said Connors.
Board members requested that the town manager return with projected cost analyses and employee eligibility estimates.
“We have no idea what the cost of somebody’s medical might be if they were to leave at say age 55,” said Searless. “And we were saying we were gonna sign up for their medical expenses for the rest of their lives. We’re seeing both companies and municipalities and even the state back o of the idea of early retirement medical coverage because of the unlimited liability.”
During departmental updates, Betty Davis, with Warsaw Parks and Recreation, shared about her ongoing efforts to enhance recreational facilities.
Davis discussed a number of initiatives in partnership with NC State University and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. These include the development of a new walking trail with informative signage and a storytelling component, as well as a collaborative art project involving Girl Scouts to beautify the path and picnic areas. Davis explained these enhancements are being funded through grants.
In Warsaw, the eld continues to grow. With six candidates now in the mix, Warsaw is on track for a potentially intense and possibly transformative election cycle. Incumbent A.J. Connors, seeking a third term, was among the rst to le on July 7.
The race took a signi cant turn July 14 when Wesley Boykin ofcially led to challenge Connors. Boykin’s entry indicates a competitive battle for the town’s top position, with both candidates likely to face scrutiny on issues such as water infrastructure and growth strategy.
Newcomers Sheree Shepard and Kiara Smith have also declared their candidacies for commissioner, challenging incumbents Ebony Wills-Wells and Al Searles, who are seeking to retain their seats. As debates around infrastructure intensify in Warsaw, the stage is set for a dynamic and closely watched election season.
Meanwhile, Mount Olive, though not entirely within Duplin County, is witnessing strong electoral activity, with six candidates and multiple competitive races already underway. Harlie Junior Carmichael and Don Fairman are running for the commission-
Davis also shared her vision for revitalizing Warsaw’s community life and infrastructure.
She recalled the town’s more prosperous past and advocated for the community to collectively brainstorm ways to bring back the vibrancy of earlier decades.
Turner provided an update on the wastewater pretreatment program, stating that they have been meeting with the state.
“There’s still information that they’re requesting to complete our nal review of our pretreatment program, but we have been working with them on that,” said Turner, adding that the town is actively working with state agencies to address wastewater compliance issues.
According to N.C. Department of Environmental Quality documents, Warsaw has been ned more than $115,000 in civil penalties in the last three months for violations of the discharge limitations found in the town’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System wastewater permit, which occurred from January through March.
Turner told Duplin Journal that the nes are paid by the industries responsible for the violations.
Commissioner Jack A. Hawes stressed that local leaders are engaging state and federal representatives to advocate for equitable funding to bring the sewer system up to par.
“I’ve been reaching out to our representatives to get us this money because I think it’s totally unfair that they represent us and everybody gets money besides Warsaw,” said Hawes, he also encouraged residents to contact legislators.
“I kind of want to dispel some of what I feel like is out there that feels like there is secrecy. There’s some things we just can’t talk about because there’s a law issue related to it. And we go in closed sections.”
The board pushed back on any narrative that the town is hiding information, especially
er at-large seat. District 1 Commissioner Vicky Darden is facing Robert King, while incumbents J. Jerome Newton and District 2 Commissioner Delreese Simmons are also seeking reelection. Mount Olive stands out for its early political participation. Issues like leadership succession and equitable district representation seem to be mobilizing residents ahead of the November vote.
This election cycle also brings structural changes to Duplin County’s voting map: The number of precincts will be reduced from 19 to 17, with the closure of the Locklin and Rock sh precincts.
The decision, made by the Duplin County Board of Elections and approved by the State Board of Elections, was driven by nancial considerations due to low turnout and proximity to the Wallace precinct.
Carrie Sullivan, Duplin County Board of Elections director, told Duplin Journal that there were a couple of factors that the board took into account when making the decision to close them.
“Locklin is home to 373 voters, of which less than 90 voted on Election Day each time over
concerning nes. Hawes claried that all required reports are self-submitted by licensed professionals, and any issues identi ed stem from honest internal reporting, not external audits.
“When you just see or hear that we got a ne, it’s not the state coming, breaking down our doors and nding this ne,” said Hawes. “It’s the reports that we send them. So that means there’s nobody hiding nothing because we send them the report. We are working to get this sewer problem resolved as quickly as we possibly can because right now it’s really going to start stunting our growth if we don’t get it recti ed.”
Hawes praised the town manager’s willingness to confront longstanding problems, particularly regarding the water and sewer infrastructure.
“At least she has the guts to face it and try to correct it,” said Hawes. “Because the other managers did not do it. And now it’s falling square in her lap. But at least she’s not turning a blind eye to it. She’s facing it straight on. Even though she gets all the di erent phone calls, the nasty phone calls, the nasty emails, she still is moving forward, along with the commissioners, to actually x the problem that’s been there for decades.”
Connors discussed reviewing the town’s personnel policies, speci cally those related to vacation leave for full-time employees. Connors proposed changes to the internal process for approving and tracking leave. Currently, policy requires board approval for employees seeking two consecutive weeks of leave.
Connors also highlighted the need for timely performance evaluations, particularly for the town manager. Although evaluations are outlined in the town’s municipal policy, they have not yet been completed.
“That is something that needs to be done in the near future,” said Connors.
He emphasized that evaluations are also expected from department heads for their respective sta .
the past two elections,” said Sullivan. “The decision for Locklin came down to the amount of manpower and resources it was taking to service a low volume of Election Day voters.
“The Rock sh precinct was located roughly half a mile from the Wallace precinct. The location only allowed for parking on the street, which is not adequate for the 961 registered voters of that precinct. The board felt that the availability of safe, ample parking and driveup curbside voting service at the Wallace precinct would better serve the voters of Rocksh. Although there are a large number of voters registered at Rock sh, most of them traditionally vote during the Early Voting period, and around 100 of them turn out on the actual day of election.”
Sullivan added that Locklin and Rock sh voters will now vote at the Wallace precinct located at the American Legion building.
“We will be sending some of the resources and sta ng from the old precincts to handle any increase in voter tra c,” she explained.
Friday is the last day of the candidate ling period for the Municipal Election.
according to Duplin County tax records, purchased it in 2003. The sale to the town was expected to be completed by July 14.
The council unanimously voted to contract with the Cape Fear Council of Governments for assistance in applying for Community Development Block Grant funds to perform the work. CDBG funds are federal tax dollars, and they are administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to pay for a ordable housing, anti-poverty programs and infrastructure development.
O cials will be seeking $250,000 in CDBG funds and will have to match it with $15,000 of local money, should the grant be awarded. The town will pay the Cape Fear Council of Governments $5,000 for assistance in seeking the funds.
Just prior to the vote, Council Member Tasha Herring said she would like to see bricks from the old building be made available to former students and for a brick walkway to be made from some of the bricks. Mayor Jason Wells agreed that it would be a good idea and said the town would consider it in the future.
In other business, the council agreed to request that the state Department of Transportation reduce speed limits from 1504 N. Norwood Street going into the town of Teachey from 55 mph to 45 mph, and on N.C. 11 from Poston Baptist Church to Stallings Road from 55 mph to 35 mph, and from Stallings Road to the Interstate 40 Exit 384 interchange from 55 mph to 45 mph. Increased tra c congestion and safety were cited as the reasons for the changes.
The town’s newest police ofcer, Ralph Amitrano Jr., was sworn in by Wells early in the meeting. Amitrano entered the force in January as a cadet, and he recently graduated from Basic Law Enforcement Training. He will now begin 12 weeks of eld training as he joins the patrol division of the department. After taking his oath of o ce, Amitrano’s badge was pinned on his uniform by his father, Ralph Amitrano Sr.
Following a closed session, the council voted to raise the pay of Town Manager Rob Taylor, clerk Jackie Nicholson said on Friday. The manager’s salary was raised from $111,000 to $118,000 per year following a positive job evaluation by the board.
“The board has been very pleased overall with his performance since taking over as town manager, and we look forward to many more years of working alongside him as town manager,” Wells said.
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@ duplinjournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
Community Fun Day
Families of all ages and backgrounds gathered Saturday afternoon at the Warsaw Parks and Recreation Center for Community Fun in the Park, which was hosted by Harvest Church. Participants enjoyed hot dogs, chips and cold drinks served under shaded tents. Handmade signs added a personal touch, welcoming guests and expressing gratitude for their presence. In addition to games and food, the event o ered moments of re ection and connection, with church volunteers available to pray with attendees. The gathering served as a heartfelt outreach, aiming to foster unity and uplift spirits across the community.
PHOTOS
DUPLIN SPORTS
Anthony Byrd ran for 1,350 yards and 10 touchdowns, and made 15 receptions for 132 yards and two more scores. He was third among all Division III runners in rushing yards.
Ex-’Dawg Anthony Byrd was named top male athlete at NC Wesleyan after nishing third in rushing in Division III
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
WALLACE — David had a sword to slay Goliath.
Anthony Byrd had to depend on his heart to become Male Athlete of the Year at NC Wesleyan University.
The former Wallace-Rose Hill running back and defensive back is perhaps the best thing to come out of the 2019 Bulldogs team that went 7-5, losing close a airs late to East Duplin and Clinton, and then getting mopped by Whiteville in a rare rst-round playo loss.
It was the senior season for the 5-foot-7, 160-pound lightning bolt who often displayed shocking powers to win one-on-one matchups.
The problem was WRH had two future full-ride Division I running backs in senior Cameren Dalrymple (Navy) and Kanye Roberts (Appalachian State). Yet that never stopped Byrd being a feared and respected player. He made 30 tackles as a shutdown defensive back who often covered for his teammates after taking care of his business.
O ensive coordinator Adam Scronce and head coach Kevin Motsinger say Byrd was one of the all-time great ’Dawgs.
“One of the toughest kids I’ve ever coached,” said Scronce, who recently accepted the head coach position
at Hobbton and has been an OC for the better part of his 19 seasons on the sidelines.
“Pound for pound, the baddest ’Dawg around,” Motsinger, who came to WRH in 2017.
Both coaches remember the time Byrd destroyed Ja’Qurious Conley, a 6-foot-2, 215 pounder who was signed by UNC. They collided near the sidelines.
“Byrd got up and ran to the huddle,” Scronce said.
“Conley got stuck to the turf,” Motsinger added. That season WRH was worn down and beaten up with injuries abound after losses to 4A champ Wake Forest (42-28) and 3A power Havelock (21-7).
Jermel Miller takes over as the WRH girls’ basketball team after six seasons as Ervin Murray’s top assistant for the Bulldogs’ boys
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — As an on-the-road supervisor for a major package service, Jermel Miller had to make snap decisions to x a problem.
He’s now going to be doing that much more as he follows his passion to become the new head girls’ basketball coach at Wallace-Rose Hill. Miller, 52, the top assistant for boys’ coach Ervin Murray for six seasons, has coached the game at the recreational and AAU levels most of his life.
This is his rst head coaching assignment with a high school team.
“The sky is the limit, and I feel this is a golden opportunity,” said Miller, who will have former boys’ assistant Jack Well and Ben Sloan on his sta . “I’m thankful our principal, assistant, AD and all those who gave me an opportunity to do what I’ve always wanted to do.” Miller says there’s much work to be done on a program that went 5-16 last winter, 16-55 the previous four seasons and has just one winning season since 2007.
WRH was 77-28 since 2017 when Adam Scronce was the o ensive coordinator.
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Every football team needs an o ensive guru, yet the majority only have coaches who call plays.
Now Wing-T expert Adam Scronce, 1A/2A power Wallace-Rose Hill’s longtime offensive coordinator, has been named the new head coach at Hobbton.
Scronce, 42, coached in eight state championship games and in 12 of 20 years played in or was a game away from the big game.
He was approved by the Sampson County School Board in late June and shortly thereafter became a father for the fourth time.
“It was time for change, I think for a lot of reasons,” Scronce said. “It’s been time for me for a little while now.
“It’s a late start to the summer, but with no head coach, kids start to fall o after a while. It’s late, but I’m excited.”
Scronce had two stints at WRH, early in his career and then after the late Jack Holley retired. He had coached with Holley at Harrells Chris-
tian Academy and then returned to WRH in 2013 under Joey Price, who had won two state titles (2009-10) with the Bulldogs and added three more (2014, ’15 and ’16) of the school’s four straight. Kevin Motsinger followed Price and added the fourth in 2017.
Scronce also ran plays under Kevin Johnson and Brian Aldridge while with the Crusaders. Holley (412-96-9), of course, is the state’s all-time second winningest coach. Aldridge (251-95-1) was also a leading force in football in Duplin County before retiring from the helm at East Duplin after the 2010 season.
Scronce spent four seasons
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
NC WESLEYAN ATHLETICS
JULIE DAVIS
New WRH girls’ basketball coach Jermel Miller has coached recreational, AAU, middle school and been a basketball assistant for the past six years for the WRH boys.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE
Jake Howard
South
Lenoir, Beulaville Post 511
Jake Howard is having a summer to remember, which is on the heels of a spring to remember.
Howard leads Beulaville Post 511 in a number of o ensive categories.
He’s hitting .421 with two doubles and a homer, ve stolen bases, seven RBIs and an on-base-percentage of .532.
Post 511 is one win from a spot in the American Legion State Tournament later this month.
Howard clubbed .538 with 11 doubles, a triple and two home runs for South Lenoir, which went 23-6 and lost to East Rutherford in the 2A nals. The June graduate whacked 43 hits and 33 RBIs.
Post 511 sweeps Post 507 to advance to state’s elite eight
The win puts a Duplin County-sponsored team in the American Legion State Tournament for the rst time since 2009
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
BEULAVILLE — Beulaville
Post 511 head coach Brandon Thigpen played in the American Legion State Tournament in 2009 when the club was known as Sampson-Duplin Post 127.
On Monday, he experienced Yogi Berra’s “Deja vu all over again” when Post 511 beat Post 507 out of Tabor City Post 9-6 to sweep the best-of- ve series in three games.
They advance to the American Legion State Tournament for the rst time since Thigpen was a senior at East Duplin and played for the Post club.
The team that rebooted this summer after stopping in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic is state-tourney bound.
“I told our kids that we played a good rst half in Game 1 and good second half in Game 2 and that is was time to put it all together, and that’s what we did tonight,” Thigpen said. “We wanted to nish this and not have to go back to Tabor City.
Post 511 (11-4) plays fellow Area 2 foe Wilmington Post 10 in a game that will only deter-
mine seeding for the big tournament. Each of four Area divisions get two tickets to the American Legion State Tournament in Cherryville, which starts on July 25.
Post 511 jumped to an early 5-0 lead by getting clutch hits and paying attention to the strike zone. Jake Howard and Austin Clements had key singles and Sawyer Marshburn at two-run elder’s choice at-bat. But walks by Eli Avent, Gage Howard and Blayden Pridgen and a pitch that hit Christian Coples set the stage. Avent bunted his way aboard in the second and scored on a wild pitch, and Cole Jarman added a sacri ce y to bump the tally to 7-1. A two-out double by the James Kenan senior and his speed on the bases made it 8-2 in the third. It was 9-3 an inning later when Clements singled and scored.
Winning pitcher Kyle Kern kept Post 507 at bay in the fth despite an in eld error that plated two unearned runs. Kern whi ed two hitters before the miscue and another after it. And it was still too close for comfort at 9-5.
Clinton’s Henry Bass let two runners aboard in the sixth and gave up a potential run-scoring hit, but Noah Rouse’s throw to catcher Clement nailed Jordan Heser at the
plate, though a run scored to make it 9-6. Bass threw a scoreless seventh, and a bit of history was made. Here’s a recap of the rst two games.
Game 1: Beulaville 15, Tabor City 10
Panthers senior Jack Tuck and Reed Davis drove in four and three runs, respectively, and Gage Howard, Clements and Jaxson Smith each lashed a pair of hits. All told, the two teams combined for 25 hits and 25 runs.
Post 511 almost ran away with it by going in front 9-1 in the third. The lead was trimmed to 10-8 in the fth, but the home team punched four runs to the plate in the sixth another in the seventh.
Game 2: Beulaville 5, Tabor City 3
Post 511 trailed until the sixth when a four-run push and Smith’s arm turned it into a win.
Chris Jarman, Jake Howard and Clements drove in runs. Smith settled in after a slow beginning to toss a complete game, limiting Post 507 to four hits and two earned runs, while whi ng nine and walking three.
Smith has earned the title of sta ace because of his consistent performance.
BYRD from page B1
But it didn’t faze Byrd, who averaged 9.1 yards on 51 carries with ve touchdowns and had his second-best defensive game against the Wolfpack. Yet his presence defensively was worth far more than his 469 rushing yards.
The best was yet to come for Byrd, who will graduate with a business degree after the fall semester while helping the Battling Bishops as an assistant coach.
“We still go places and people talk about him.
Mind over matter
Byrd had increasingly tougher obstacles and obstructions in Rocky Mount on the Division III circuit.
Scronce said he admires Byrd for sticking to football and a level most play a season, maybe two. The ones who stay are among the bold and daring.
“You have to love the game,” Scronce said.
Byrd had that in his soul and also was stubborn enough to not believe those who said he was too small, too short, too fragile and unable to be a major factor on a football eld.
Yet he knew it wouldn’t be easy or simple to sway the
opinions of his peers and coaches.
“My motto from my sophomore year forward was to learn from the people in front of you,” Byrd said. “I’m proud of myself and proud of all the people who helped me get here.”
For Byrd, the other side of that equation was to put cotton in his ears when listening to those who doubt his ability.
“These guys told me to not let anyone tell me I can’t do it because they have seen me do it,” he said. “They said, ‘Now go out and show it.’”
He did just that his nal two seasons.
He ran for 638 yards as a junior season in which he was a second-team All-South Conference All-Conference selection.
Last fall, he ripped o 1,350 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 5.8 yards per carry and 85.4 yards per game. He added 15 catches for 132 yards and two more scores.
He had the third-most yards in Division III even though he missed a full game and half of another one.
“My nal two years were so good, but to me they could have been even better, though our team record wasn’t as good as it could have been,” Byrd said. “I just feel like I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. Having big people
in front of me won’t stop me from what I’m going to do.”
Byrd said a moment during his sophomore season was a turning point.
“I was so eager to play, and then COVID was happening,” he said. “I didn’t get on the eld until the end, but it helped me and taught me that, one, I knew I could play, and two, sometimes it’s good to sit behind people and learn.
Byrd was a rst-team All- South and All-Region Division III performer his nal campaign.
He ran for a career-high 192 yards in the opener against Averett but put that in the distance after logging 218 yards and having a 64yard touchdown catch against Southern Virginia.
He ran for more than 100 yards in eight of nine games (getting 86 against Belhaven). Byrd played a key role in Wesleyan’s late-season push with a two-touchdown performance against both Greensboro and Brevard.
“Anthony has been a cornerstone of our football program for the last ve seasons,” said Wesleyan Director of Athletics Aaron Denton. “He’s not only a remarkable athlete, but an incredible representative of our university. His impact goes beyond statistics — he’s left a lasting legacy for future Bishops to follow.”
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Shortstop Jack Tuck, left, drove in four runs when Post 511 won Game 2 of the best- of- ve with Tabor City Post 507.
ECC champs Bulldogs move to loaded Swine Valley Conference
WRH joins powers Midway and Princeton, while East Duplin and Clinton are ECC favorites in a less competitive conference
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — During the NSHSAA’s conference realignment process, the volleyball community watched intently to see where the perennial power schools would be placed.
Some schools secretly didn’t want Midway and Princeton, both of which have state titles in trophy cases.
The second-tier list features schools that are currently hot and have been for at least three years — Wallace-Rose Hill, Rosewood and East Columbus.
The NCHSAA’s reformulated conferences favored East Duplin, gave WRH and James Kenan two strong foes, and left North Duplin with a league that has struggling volleyball programs, though plenty of parity.
Here’s the pre-eason breakdown of the Swine Valley, Carolina and East Central conferences.
Swine Valley has powerhouse teams
Four of the six schools in the former Swine Valley 3A had exceptional seasons last fall.
Wallace-Rose Hill, Rosewood, Midway and Princeton had red carpets to welcome visitors to their respective courts, knowing the foursome had a combined mark of 84-17.
Midway, which beat WRH twice last season, is the favorite. It’s also historically the best program in the state.
The Raiders were 21-4 last fall and have gone 89-18 the past four seasons.
They are the team everyone will be in awe of before the opening serve. Getting past the program’s mystic is key.
Midway’s top scorer Kaedyn Moran (346 kills) is back, and she has help from returnees Cailyn Hewett (201 kills) and Gracyn Hall (173 kills). The threesome, plus e orts from June graduate Samantha Carter (103 kills), guided the Raiders to the
under Joey Price (248-57) at WRH and then worked in close alliance with current coach Motsinger (174-85), who won that 2A crown in 2017 and was a runner-up in 2021.
Scronce, who also coached basketball for many years, is a 2001 WRH grad who played for Holley and had Battle Holley (149-56) as his o ensive coordinator in the latter’s senior season. Scronce was a quarterback in the Wing-T, much like the younger Holley, who more recently guided East Duplin to its rst state title in 2022.
Football was everywhere for Scronce growing up, including when he attended rst grade and his teacher was the late Judy Holley, Jack’s wife.
When he returned to WRH, he joined up with assistant JP Price, son of then head coach Joey Price, now head coach at Whiteville.
“I took the running backs, and he took quarterback,” said Scronce, “and then on Friday I was upstairs, and JP was on the sideline. That worked pretty well.” Jack Holley took the Bulldogs to runner-up state 2A nishes in 2001, 2004 and 2005. Then the exceptionally great rush of talent resumed in 2009 and ended in 2017.
The Bulldogs have had talent after that but not the depth, which makes Scronce’s post-Joey Price period under Motsinger special. Those Bulldogs won because of a high-powered o ense that scored quickly through the misdirection of the Wing-T. Hobbton, a 2A school this fall, red Joe Salas after a 3-8 season. He was 34-32 in seven seasons, hardly the high-water mark set by Al Britt, who won a state title in 1993 and led the Wildcats to a runner-up nish 11 years later.
ND’s Lilly Fulghum unloads one of her 96 aces.
fourth round of the 2A playo s last fall.
Princeton is the second-most recognizable power. The Bulldogs have gone 55-21 the previous three years.
The Bulldogs won a 1A title in 2014 and the East Region title in 2015 while falling at that same level in 2013.
They are front loaded this season with a trio of players who combined for 660 kills.
Seniors Caroline Waller (214) and Kensley Evans (257) join sophomore Taylor Holmes (289) to make a lethal front line.
Rosewood has had back-toback 20-win seasons and are 70-28 the past four seasons.
While the Eagles lost Jessica Fones (351 kills), who was key in the squad advancing to the third round of the 1A playo s, returning to the court are Kylie Hu man (196 kills) and Avery Ramsey (281 kills).
From 2007 to 2021, the Eagles have basically been a .500 team, sans a 19-win campaign in 2013.
The last two seasons Rosewood has gone 45-7 following a 14-9 buildup in 2022. Will the rise continue as the Eagles face better competition?
WRH has its second-best season in history last fall (21-3), and the Bulldogs have also built up to reach the upper echelons, going 13-7, 17-5 and 18-7 from 2021 to 2023.
And all but one big ’Dawg returns for head coach Kevin Williams.
His squad has the attacking power from Angelina Cavallaro (401 saves, 120 digs, 32 blocks, 94 aces), who was Ms. Volleyball in Duplin the previous two seasons.
Her sidekick Jansley Page had 260 kills, 78 blocks, 153 digs and 129 assists.
While losing Analeise Rivenbark (180 kills), WRH is solid, though it will need to nd a third scoring source.
Gabby Debman (79 blocks) and Maddie Gavin (709 assists, 132 digs) should provide more, yet players such as Kaylee Lovette and Sally Martinez are also expected to play at a higher level as returnees with experience.
Tigers, Gators, Cougars seek to raise bar
The three potential bottom feeders of the Swine Valley
Adam
“He had them going pretty well, and we used to scrimmage them early as he was good friends with Jack (Holley),” Scronce said. “They had pretty good athletes then, and I believe we have good ones here. But there is a lot of learning and work to be done.”
Finally makes big move
With the Bulldogs, Scronce mentored future Division I running backs Javonte Williams, Cameren Dalrymple, Kanye Roberts and Irving Brown, as well as many other talented backs — including Desmond Newkirk, Robert Montgomery and Kaymond Farrier.
“He was my left-hand man and was a relentless worker,” Motsinger said. “He knows the Wing-T as well as anyone. He brought in and adapted our weight room with the new velocity-style training, as well as the GPS tracking with our speed work.”
Motsinger believes the latter cut down on WRH’s injuries. He also thanked his assistant coach for coming to his
seeking to compete are James Kenan, Spring Creek and Goldsboro.
None have the winning pedigree of the four powers mentioned above.
The Tigers have nothing to lose after going 12-59 the past four seasons, and the Gators are 25-53 during that span.
The Cougars’ record looks better (30-42), but that is against weaker competition.
They were 14-7 last season and return Azlayah Boyer (163 kills) and Amiyah Ford (121 kills), but lost Des’Myah Croom (128 kills).
The Tigers hopes of rising depends on Y’Anna Rivers (69 kills) and Ava Jones (81 kills).
Jourdan Joe, Aleyah Wilson and Shylah Sloan, the top athletic players in several sports, will need to accelerate their respective games to keep JK from sinking in the Swine Valley.
Panthers, Dark Horses to battle for ECC title?
East Duplin went astray from 2021 to 2023 (31-32) as former coach Susan Raynor returned to reboot the team last fall.
It worked to the tune of a 15-7 mark and several key players return, including Zoe Turner (107 kills, 124 digs, 36 aces), Zoe Cavanaugh (174 kills, 168 digs) and Kinsey Cave (138 kills, 105 digs) and Karsyn Parker (188 digs, 67 aces).
Yet Raynor will work to develop players who contribute before the ball is ready to be spiked on o ense. She may not have Anamarie Rodriguez (187 assists) because of an injury, and Emily Raynor (130 assist) got hurt late in the season and has since graduated.
Clinton went 61-31 that past three seasons and has four players with 65 or more kills back on the court, including Carrie Johnson, who had 146 lightning strikes.
The Panthers and Dark Horses split two matches last season, and the series is 4-4 since 2021.
Trask (32-51), Pender (25-59) and Southwest Onslow (34-50) have struggled the past four years. South Lenoir (56-27) was a consistent 13- to 14- win team before COVID-19.
of the o ense bear this out.
That’s not a Scronce o ense. Nor is the weight-room activity up to his standards.
He’s going to need time. But what that means isn’t exactly clear. Hobbton football hasn’t often made deep runs in the playo s.
Yet don’t forget, Scronce is an excellent teacher of the game.
After being around football so long, it’s more about everything else he will have to learn as a rst-year guy who is absolutely the go-to source when something good or bad happens.
He’s attempting to get more assistants to bolster the three on sta .
Neuse exit helpful to Carolina Conference
Neuse Charter’s exit from the CC is bene cial to all seven schools.
The Cougars were 83-27 the past four seasons with a East Region title and a fourth-round exit via 26- and 23-win seasons, respectively. There is no clear favorite to take the crown in the new 2A league beyond possibly East Columbus or Lakewood.
East Columbus is 58-26 in the past four seasons, though it went nowhere in the playo s. They exited last season in the rst round and nished 13 - 4.
Yet the program has not had much success before 2021. The Gators were 47-67 from 2015 to 2020. Here’s one that can immediately be thrown into the basement. West Columbus is 0-79 in the past six years and just 14 wins the previous six seasons. Hobbton, which is 31-42 in the past four years, also appears to not be ready for prime time. The Wildcats have had just two .500-plus seasons since 2007.
Tag Union in that category. The Spartans are 31-53 in the past four seasons, which is an improvement from the previous four campaigns in which they were 5-53.
Lakewood has gone 13-53 in the past three seasons after having 13 .500-plus seasons. The Leopards went 241- 64 from 2010-21. During that stretch, they have eight seasons with 18 or more wins.
All of this opens the door for North Duplin, 41-40 since 2021. Historically, the Rebels have not produced conference titles or long postseason runs, going 107-139 in the past 14 seasons with ve .500 or better seasons. Its best season was a 15-9 nish in 2011.
ND lost Tateyawna Faison (127 kills, 101 blocks) and Eva Quintanilla (148 kills), but return Lilly Fulghum (412 assists, 96 aces, 129 digs), Marissa Bernal (397 digs) and Ady Spence (101 digs).
Expect Abby Noris and Maggie Brown to be frontline hitters.
“I don’t think (girls’ basketball here) has been overlooked, but it’s not paid attention to, and we want to change that culture,” he said. “We want to bring energy, excitement, hustle to the oor. We’re going to be 10-deep, and I will use that to our advantage by pressing the ball.” Miller, a 1991 graduate of East Duplin, also played ball for Lenoir Community College under the late Bobby Dawson, who won more than 500 games during his career.
rescue on and o the eld.
“In my adult life, he had to cover for me more than any other human has,” said Motsinger, whose wife Perry is recovering from cancer and facing all kinds of challenges, so much that it forced her to sell her optometry business in December.
While WRH will now be competing as a 3A school in all sports in the NCHSAA’s new realignment — and in a new conference — it will dearly miss Scronce’s touch. And the Wildcats are the big winners.
Motsinger said, “I believe he will immediately put them in the elite small group in 2A football that are in the legitimate conversation to face Tarboro to get to the dance.
“That program just went to another level.”
Not so fast. Scronce isn’t running the same type of offense as the Wildcats used under Salas.
“They had one running play, a misdirection, and then passed the ball every other play,” said a rival coach from the Carolina 1A Conference who wanted to remain anonymous. Tapes
And, he says, his wife Brittany understands there will be a lot of late nights as she cares for newborn Khloe, 3-year- old twins Sydney and Lexi and 5-year-old Bristol.
When he arrives home, it will be girls’ hour, after Scronce has spent the rest of his day developing Wildcat teenage guys.
“We want to play Duplin County teams,” he said, while also noting he was looking forward to facing North Duplin, strongly coached by veteran alumnus Hugh Martin, with UNC recruit Trashawn Ru n. “You have to play good teams to get better. That’s always been the case.”
And while the nal verdict on Scronce won’t be in for a while, it’s hard to believe he won’t be successful against current Carolina 2A schools such as Union, Lakewood, West Columbus, East Bladen and Martin’s Rebels, who they play Halloween night in Newton Grove.
Hobbton’s early slate — Midway, Triton, Dixon and Rosewood — will be an early indication if the Wildcats are on a good track.
Still, they could struggle, since nearly everything will be new.
“We want to hold our players to a standard that’s not been used,” Miller said. “It’s about team with no I (individual). It’s been great working with the girls so far. They pick up things quickly and are concerned about the details. Once they get something they say, ‘Let’s go.’”
WRH returns Savannah Smith (13.9 points), Sophia Sloan (4.9) and Jansley Page (4.5, 7.2 rebounds) as proven contributors while losing Nevaeh Dobson (9.1 points, 7.1 rebounds) and Analeise Rivenbark (5.4 points, 7.2 boards).
The team also returns less-experienced underclassmen Zymira Carr, Azee Monk, Amana Pearsall and Keyona Thomas.
WRH’s schedule appears to be better suited to rebuild as it leaves ECC powers East Duplin and Southwest Onslow for the Swine Valley that includes Spring Creek, Princeton, Rosewood and Midway and familiar foes James Kenan and Goldsboro.
The biggest power team in the conference is Goldsboro, which went 24-3 last winter following a third-round playo exit to eventual 2A champ Southeast Alamance.
Yet the conference looks wide open beyond the Cougars. Parity with the other schools could be wonderful for the Bulldogs.
SCRONCE from page B1
MILLER from page B1
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Scronce has coached in eight state championship games.
Van Gisbergen dominates on another road course, wins at Sonoma to extend streak
The win is his third in the last ve races
By Jenna Fryer
The Associated Press
SONOMA, Calif. — Another road course win was so expected for Shane van Gisbergen that Trackhouse Racing had extra tires ready for his Sonoma Raceway victory celebration.
Van Gisbergen won for the third time in ve races and second straight on Sunday when he dominated on the California road course. The New Zealander once again showed he’s in a completely di erent class on road and street courses than his rivals as he led 97 of 110 laps to win from pole at Sonoma Raceway.
He celebrated with the traditional burnout, then his Trackhouse crew changed the tires on the No. 88 Chevrolet so he could do a second smoke-inducing spin on his way to Victory Lane. He also kept with his own tradition and kicked a rugby ball into the grandstands.
“It means everything. That’s why I race cars. I had an amazing time in Australia, and then to come here and the last couple weeks, or years, actually, has been a dream come true,” said van Gisbergen. “I’ve really enjoyed my time in NASCAR. Thanks, everyone, for making me feel so welcome. I hope I’m here for a long time to come.”
All three of his wins this year
Shane van Gisbergen kicks a rugby ball to celebrate winning the NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway.
have been from pole — which tied him with Je Gordon for a Cup Series record of three consecutive road course victories from the top starting spot. Gordon did it between the 1998 and 1999 seasons.
He joins Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson as the only drivers with three wins this season, and this one moved him into third for playo seeding. Van Gisbergen was 33rd in the standings and not
yet quali ed for the playo s just ve weeks ago.
Victory No. 4 for van Gisbergen — who stunned NASCAR in 2023 when he popped into the debut Chicago street course race from Australian V8 Supercars and won — seemed a given before teams even arrived at the picturesque course in California wine country. His rivals have lamented that “SVG” has a unique braking technique he mastered Down Under that
Sinner beats Alcaraz to win rst Wimbledon title
The 22-year-old Spainard lost his rst Grand Slam nal after ve wins
By Howard Fendrich
The Associated Press
LONDON — Jannik Sinner insisted early on at Wimbledon that he put an excruciating loss to Carlos Alcaraz in their epic French Open nal behind him. Sinner was sure that one defeat wouldn’t haunt him, wouldn’t prevent a quick recalibration and certainly wouldn’t mean a thing at the All England Club.
Sure was right about all of that.
Exactly ve weeks after the devastating defeat at Roland-Garros against his rival, Sinner reversed the result, beating two-time defending Wimbledon champion Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 on Sunday to win his rst championship at the grass-court major.
“At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter how you win or you lose the important tournaments. You just have to understand what you did wrong. Trying to work on that — that’s exactly what we did. We tried to accept the loss and then just kept working,” Sinner said Sunday, his shiny gold hardware in his hands. “And this is, for sure, why I’m holding this trophy here.”
The No. 1-ranked Sinner earned his fourth Grand Slam title overall, moving him one away from No. 2 Alcaraz’s total as the two no-longer-rising-but- rmly-established stars of the game separate themselves from the rest of the pack in men’s tennis.
CHAN / AP PHOTO
JOANNA
Italy’s Jannik Sinner receives the trophy from Kate, Princess of Wales, after beating Carlos Alcaraz of Spain to win the men’s singles nal at Wimbledon.
Sinner, a 23-year-old Italian, put an end to several streaks for Alcaraz, a 22-year-old Spaniard, who had been 5-0 in Grand Slam nals.
Alcaraz had won their last ve matches, most famously across ve sets and nearly 51⁄2 hours on the red clay of the French Open on June 8.
Sinner took a two-set lead, then held a trio of match points but couldn’t close the deal.
“Today was important not just because it was a Grand Slam nal, not just because it was Wimbledon, and not just because Carlos had won the
none of them — all oval specialists — can ever learn.
That win in Chicago two years ago led van Gisbergen to move to the United States for a career change driving stock cars for Trackhouse Racing. He and Ross Chastain have pumped energy into the team over this summer stretch with Chastain kicking it o with a Memorial Day weekend victory at the Coca-Cola 600. Van Gisbergen is the fast-
NOTICES
“It means everything. That’s why I race cars.”
Shane van Gisbergen
est driver to win four Cup Series races — in his 34th start — since Parnelli Jones in 1969. He’s also the winningest driver born outside the United States.
“It’s unreal. To do Chicago, an experience that I really enjoyed, and never thought it would lead to more let alone moving over here and doing things,” he said. “Its been amazing, everything that I hoped it could ever be.”
The Sonoma win made it four victories for Trackhouse in eight weeks. Van Gisbergen was second from pole in Saturday’s X nity Series race.
Chase Briscoe was second in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing.
“I never played basketball against Michael Jordan in his prime, but I feel like that’s probably what it was like,” said Briscoe after not being able to pass van Gisbergen on two late restarts — the last with ve laps remaining.
“That guy is unbelievable on road courses. He’s just so good. He’s really raised the bar on this entire series.”
Briscoe was followed by Chase Elliott in a Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports. Michael McDowell in a Chevy for Spire Motorsports was fourth and Christopher Bell in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing was fth.
last ve matches against him,” said Darren Cahill, one of Sinner’s two coaches, who had planned to leave the team at the end of 2025 but now might stick around. “He needed that win today. So he knew the importance of closing this one out when he had the opportunities.”
Asked during Week 1 at Wimbledon whether what happened in Paris created lingering doubts, Sinner immediately replied: “Why negative feelings? Because I lost in (that) nal?”
Then he continued: “No. Look, it’s a new tournament, new Grand Slam, new surface. I’m not concerned about my level I can play. ... I’m not concerned that one loss can in uence you for so long a time. I believe that here is a new chance that I can do something good.”
Great, even.
This time, he didn’t waver, asserting himself in a match that featured moments of terri c play by both men but also the occasional lapses — and one memorable, brief, interruption right before a Sinner serve when a Champagne cork came ying out of the stands and settled on the turf.
With Prince William and Princess Kate in the Royal Box, along with King Felipe VI of Spain, Alcaraz stepped into the sunlight bathing Centre Court with a career-best 24-match unbeaten run. He had won 20 matches in a row at the All England Club.
“The things that went his way in Paris,” Sinner said, “went my way this time.”
When it ended, he put both hands on his white hat. After embracing Alcaraz, Sinner crouched with his head bowed, then pounded his right palm on the grass.
He has participated in four consecutive major nals, including triumphs at the U.S. Open — shortly after the world learned about a doping case that eventually led to a three-month ban — and the Australian Open.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#25E001253-300
The undersigned, DONNA RENEE KENNEDY MCGEE, having quali ed on the 26TH DAY of JUNE, 2025, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of PATRICK D. MCDOWELL, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 3RD Day of OCTOBER 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 3RD Day of JULY 2025. DONNA RENEE KENNEDY MCGEE, EXECUTOR 372 LYMAN RD. BEULAVILLE, NC 28518
Run dates: Jy3,10,17,24p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#25E001212-300
The undersigned, CHARLES L. WILSON, having quali ed on the 4TH DAY of JUNE, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JAMES LLOYD WILSON, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 3RD Day of OCTOBER 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 3RD Day of JULY 2025. CHARLES L. WILSON, ADMINISTRATOR 64 MUSTANG POINT BOULEVARD ROCKY POINT, NC 28457 Run dates: Jy3,10,17,24p
NOTICE
FILE#25E001266-300 The
GODOFREDO A. VÁSQUEZ / AP PHOTO
Mary Wanda Strickland Cavenaugh
April 22, 1932 – July 5, 2025
Mary Wanda Strickland Cavenaugh, 93, of Magnolia passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 5, 2025 at Warsaw Health and Rehabilitation, where she was a resident for the last month. Wanda was born April 22, 1932 in Duplin County to the late Forest Strickland and Unity Willets Strickland.
Surviving is her son Carroll Leo Cavenaugh of Magnolia and daughter Marion Jeanine Cavenaugh of Magnolia, a special niece Phyllis Carter of Wake Forest and her furbaby grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Marion Leo Cavenaugh.
Wanda was a homemaker for her entire married life. She was an avid reader, and the Amish romance novels were her favorite. After her husband’s retirement in 1993, they were always seen together, especially at Bojangles of Warsaw. After his death in 2021, Wanda could be found most days either watching the Hallmark channel or coloring. She has left behind an assortment of coloring books for her daughter to cherish. Wanda enjoyed the shopping trips with her daughter to Hobby Lobby. It didn’t matter where they were; if a Hobby Lobby was there, they had to check it out. She also looked forward to watching Valerie Parr Hill on QVC during Christmas in July and other seasons as well. She and her daughter would sit up until 3 a.m. watching her presentations.
Wanda was the next-tolast surviving graduate of the Magnolia High School class of 1950. She was also a member of United Fellowship PFWB Church in Magnolia.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Devotional Gardens of Warsaw.
Nancy Louise Sellers Mears
May 1, 1939 – July 13, 2025
Nancy Louise Sellers Mears, age 86, of Wallace, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
She was born on May 1, 1939, in Columbus County, NC, to the late John W. and Carrie Lee Ward Sellers. Nancy was also preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Douglas Mears; two children, Linda Louise Odom and Robert F. Odom; and brothers, Wilton Sellers and Buddy Sellers.
Nancy was a long-time member of the Church of Pentecostal Gathering.
Surviving to cherish her memories are her children, Earl Grey Odom and wife Patricia of Penderlea, Mark Odom of Willard and Rebecca “Becky” Fussell and husband Phillip of Willard; grandchildren Lisa Hughes, Jennifer Cottle and husband Blake, Michael Fussell, and Blake Fussell; great grandchildren Tyler, Delaney, Kayla, Samantha and Benny; great-great grandchildren Colton and Summit; sister Sandra Gail Bass and husband Larry of Sanford; brother Bobby Ray Sellers of Whiteville; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that love Nancy dearly.
Nancy was a devoted mother, caring grandmother and sister who loved her family with all her heart. She enjoyed the simplest things in life, but her greatest joy was spending time with those she loved. Nancy was a quiet, humble woman with strong Christian faith.
She loved the Lord as well as her church family and never wanted to miss a service. Nancy’s favorite pastime was being with family and friends, going shopping, and out to eat. She has fought a good ght, nished her course and is now in the presence of Jesus forevermore. Nancy will surely be missed but never forgotten.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the Church of Pentecostal Gathering in Wallace with her Pastor, Rodney Bonham, o ciating.
The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m., one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the church.
Burial will follow the service at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey, NC.
You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our Tribute Wall above. Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace, NC
Tina Louise Cashwell Taylor King
Dec. 27, 1974 – July 12, 2025
Tina Louise Cashwell Taylor King, 50, of Pink Hill, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. Tina was born on December 27, 1974, in Wayne County to the late Glenn Cashwell and Barbara Ann Turner Cashwell. After her parents’ death, Tina was raised as the daughter of her aunt and uncle, Mary Ann and Charles Padgett. A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. A visitation will follow the service.
Left to cherish her memory are husband, Anthony “Tony” King of the home; sons, Josh Taylor and Danielle, Nick Taylor and ancé’ Amber Kornegay of Chinquapin, Everette King of Angier; Katie Ammons and Chris of Clinton, and Toni Lynette King of Juneau, Alaska; brothers Glenn Cashwell and Beth of Warsaw, Craig Roberts and Lou of Dudley, and William Roberts and Sandy of Faison; sisters Sylvia Millen and Chris of Laurinburg, and Rita Hood and Jimmy of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Zoie Blackburn, Haylee Blackburn, Cameron Taylor, Wyatt Taylor, Brayden Fountain, Cayson Taylor, River Taylor, Anna Grace Ammons, Olivia Amons, Chris “Bubba” Ammons and unborn, Dakota Wayne Ammons; special daughters, Krystal Vernon, Kayla Taylor, Cynthia Blackmore, Harley Loomis and Jennipher Edwards.
Tina was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn Cashwell and Barbara Ann Turner Cashwell; Mary Ann Padgett and Charles Padgett; and her rst husband, Rodney Taylor.
Alan G.Hassenfeld, former CEO of Hasbro, dies at 76
He gave millions to children’s causes in Rhode Island
By Annie D’Innocenzio
The Associated Press
NEW YORK — Alan G. Hassenfeld, a renowned philanthropist and former CEO of iconic toy company Hasbro Inc., the maker of G.I. Joe and Play-Doh, has died. He was 76, according to the toy company.
Hasbro, the nation’s second largest toy company behind Mattel based on annual sales, declined to o er more details. Hassenfeld’s family foundation, Hassenfeld Family Initiatives, wasn’t immediately available to comment.
Hassenfeld was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and graduated from Deer eld Academy in Massachusetts. He received an undergraduate arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1970. Upon graduation, he joined the Pawtucket, Rhode Island-based family business in 1970. Hasbro was founded in 1923, by Hassenfeld’s grandfather, Henry. Known initially as Hassenfeld Brothers, it sold textile remnants but expanded into school supplies and later toy manufacturing under the Hasbro name in the 1940s, according to Hasbro’s website. It went public in 1968.
Hassenfeld rose quickly in the family business serving as special assistant to the president and worked his way up the ranks. He became one of the key architects of Hasbro’s international operations and spent extensive time traveling overseas. He was named executive vice president in 1980 and became president in September 1984.
Hassenfeld labored for years in the shadow of his older brother Stephen. His broth-
er’s death of pneumonia in June 1989 at age 47, however, moved Hassenfeld into the position of chairman and chief executive o cer.
Hassenfeld stepped down as CEO in 2003, and in August 2005, he retired from his chairman position and became emeritus chairman. He stepped away from that role last year. Hassenfeld was the last family member to sit on the board, according to Hasbro.
“All of us who have ever had any connection to Hasbro today are mourning the profound loss of Alan Hassenfeld, our beloved former Chairman & CEO, mentor, and dear friend,” Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks in an e-mailed statement to The Associated Press. “Alan’s enormous heart was, and will remain, the guiding force behind Hasbro — compassionate, imaginative, and dedicated to bringing a smile to the face of every child around the world. His tireless advocacy for philanthropy, children’s welfare, and the toy industry created a legacy that will inspire us always.”
Hassenfeld was involved in many charitable and social causes both nationally and locally in Rhode Island. His concerns ranged from childhood hunger to issues involving refugee settlement in the state. As chairman of the Hassenfeld Family Initiatives, he oversaw the foundation’s mission of globalizing safety and human rights within the area of children’s products; empowering women in developing countries; and enhancing the economy, education and business opportunities in Rhode Island. Hassenfeld was also founding benefactor of Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, and his family’s contributions helped to establish the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute at Brown University.
Hasbro Inc.’s Alan G. Hassenfeld delivers an acceptance speech after he and his late brother, Stephen D. Hassenfeld, were inducted into the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association Licensing Industry Hall of Fame in 2010 in Las Vegas.
Born in North Carolina, he went to Durham High School
By Patrick Whittle The Associated Press
DAVID GERGEN, a veteran of Washington politics and an adviser to four presidents in a career spanning decades in government, academia and media, has died. He was 83. Gergen worked in the administrations of Presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton. Over the years, he served as a speechwriter, communications director and counselor to the president, among other roles. Dean Jeremy Weinstein of the Harvard Kennedy School, with which Gergen had a long relationship, said Gergen died of a long illness. Gergen “devoted decades of his life to serving those
who sought to serve,” said Hannah Riley Bowles, a former co-director of the school’s Center for Public Leadership, where Gergen was the founding director.
“David was a principled leader of unmatched character, integrity and kindness, who chose to see goodness in every person he met,” Riley Bowles said.
Al Gore, who served as Clinton’s vice president, posted on X, “Of the countless ways that David Gergen contributed to our great country, what I will remember him for most was his kindness to everyone he worked with, his sound judgment, and his devotion to doing good in the world.”
David Richmond Gergen was born in North Carolina and graduated from Durham High School before atttending Yale University and the Harvard Law School, according to a biography on the Harvard Kennedy School website. He would go on to receive 27 honorary degrees over the course of his career.
Gergen founded the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School and remained there as professor of public service emeritus until his death, according to the school’s website.
After serving in the U.S. Navy
in the 1960s, Gergen took his rst White House job in 1971, serving as a speechwriting assistant for Nixon. Bipartisanship and collaboration were hallmarks of his long career, said colleagues who paid testimonials on social media last Friday. He was also a media personality who worked as a senior political analyst for CNN. In his 2022 book “Hearts Touched with Fire: How Great Leaders are Made,” he wrote: “Our greatest leaders have emerged from both good times and, more often, challenging ones. … The very nest among them make the di cult calls, that can ultimately alter the course of history.”
A private burial is scheduled for Mount Auburn Cemetery on Monday, said Mark Douglass, director of Douglass Funeral Home in Lexington, Massachusetts. A larger memorial service at Harvard will be held in the coming weeks, Douglass said.
J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO
President Bill Clinton listens to David Gergen, right, during a Rose Garden news conference May 29, 1993.
ERIC JAMISON/AP IMAGES FOR HASBRO
Iron Mambi sizzles to rst place
Local entrepreneurs shine at Pitch It Duplin 2025
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — Lo -
cal entrepreneurs brought the heat to the pitch in Kenansville last week as the winners of the Pitch It Duplin 2025 were announced.
The county-wide entrepreneurship competition, hosted by James Sprunt Community College’s Small Business Center, Marine Federal Credit Union and the Duplin Chamber of Commerce, provided aspir -
ing entrepreneurs with a platform to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges.
Randy Barrios took home rst place with the Iron Mambi Grill, a concept that captured the judges’ attention with its forward thinking, earning him the top prize.
The Iron Mambi is a new American-Latin fusion restaurant in Rose Hill that blends Cuban and Honduran avors with high-quality American staples like Wagyu smashburgers, set to open in 2026. The concept is deeply rooted in Barrios’ personal and cultural heritage. He invested his life savings into revitaliz-
ing a once-abandoned building, transforming it into a welcoming dine-in space for up to 40 guests. Barrios plans to accept cryptocurrency payments and rent out the commercial kitchen to food trucks. His strong grasp of business economics, attention to food quality and desire to reinvigorate the local dining scene position him for success.
Second place was awarded to Kitrina Rhodes for Special Touch Assisted Living Center. Rhodes’ vision is to create a home-like alternative to institutional care. Her business addresses the needs of adults with developmental disabili-
ties. Her business model emphasizes individualized attention, 24/7 care in a family setting, and life-skills development, all within a small, supportive home environment. In third place was Rosie Flores with Sliced & Diced Charcuterie. Her business aims to eliminate the stress of hosting events by o ering customizable, visually appealing and healthy alternatives to traditional catering, including vendor pop-ups, individual custom orders and luxury picnic experiences.
Andy Staradumsky came in fourth place with H2L Line Boring, a mobile welding ser -
vice that specializes in heavy equipment restoration, specifically repairing worn pins and bushings on excavators and bulldozers.
“We are proud of every participant who stepped up to share their vision and inspire others in our community,” stated JSCC in a social media announcement.
Pitch It Duplin was a celebration designed to support and spotlight local emerging entrepreneurs. Every participant who shared their business idea contributed to the growing entrepreneurial landscape, inspiring others to pursue their dreams. According to the Marine Federal Credit Union website, the awards for rst, second and third place winners were $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000, respectively.
End of era for dedicated Pink Hill volunteer
Swannie Turner was honored for her 25-year blood drive legacy
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
WHEN A RED CROSS blood drive was held in Pink Hill on July 8, the goal was to collect 45 pints from donors. They exceeded that goal, collecting 60 pints. Collecting more blood than expected is not unusual in the small town of only 470 people. The Red Cross and the community are quick to give credit for the success of blood drives in Pink Hill to the hard work of one woman, Swannie Turner.
Turner began volunteering for blood drives 25 years ago. Her inspiration came from within her own family, speci cally her daughter.
“Pink Hill did not have a blood drive, except every now and then,” Turner said in an interview with Duplin Journal. “I would give blood every once in a while.”
Her desire to give more blood and encourage other people to give came after her daughter was hospitalized in Portland, Oregon.
“My daughter was in the hospital, and she hemorrhaged. She had to have lots and lots of blood,” Turner said. Seeing rsthand the need for blood, Turner told a committee in Pink Hill she thought a blood drive would do well there. With the help of a man named George Holland, blood drives became a regular event in the community.
“We started the Pink Hill blood drive in July of 2000 and had it in the Presbyterian Church,” Turner said. The blood drives became so successful that they quickly outgrew their locations and eventually landed in Turning Point Assembly Church, where they are currently held. Turner, ap-
proaching her 96th birthday, has been the driving force of Pink Hill blood drives now for a quarter century.
At the July 8 Pink Hill blood drive, Turner handed over her volunteer duties to two women, Danita Sheppard and Carolyn Whit eld.
The Red Cross and volunteers honored Turner at the event and presented her with a cake. She also donated blood, bringing her total over the years to 29 gallons. It was not the rst time Turner had been recognized for her longtime e orts in encouraging people to donate blood. Several years ago, the Red Cross arranged for her to receive the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine presented by the state.
Sheppard told Duplin Journal that Turner’s dedication was behind the success of Red Cross blood drives in Pink Hill.
“We have donors come from Kenansville, Albertson and other areas,” Sheppard said. “She spent weekends calling folks and encouraging them to give blood. You just don’t say no to Ms. Swannie.”
In addition to calling to remind regular donors of the upcoming drive, Sheppard said Turner would add to the encour-
agement with her famous sweet treats.
“Before COVID, Swannie would make brownies, and we would serve them to the donors,” Sheppard said.
Turner doesn’t bake brownies for the blood drive anymore, but she said donors would ask about them after giving blood.
“They’d ask, ‘Where’s my brownies?’”
While donors had great memories of her brownies, they now bring back a sad memory for Turner.
“I was making brownies for the blood drive when I got the call that my daughter had passed away,” Turner said, adding that her daughter died at the age of 70.
On passing the torch to Sheppard and Whit eld, she said, “I’ve reached the point that I can’t get around very well.”
While Turner may no longer be a regular at the Pink Hill blood drives, that doesn’t mean she’s not still active in donating her time to others.
“I still volunteer twice a week at the Duplin hospital,” she said.
The next Pink Hill Red Cross blood drive will be held at the Turning Point Assembly on Sept. 2 from 1-6:15 p.m.
PHOTO COURTESY ELIZA ROUSE Swannie Turner poses with a cake presented by the Red Cross in honor of her 25 years as a driving force behind the success of the blood drives in Pink Hill.
