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Duplin Journal

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95K gallons of animal waste impact Carltons Mill Run Creek

Duplin County

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality reported an animal waste spill last Friday affecting Carltons Mill Run Creek in Duplin County. The spill, which originated from C&J Finishers on Carrolls Road near Warsaw, involved approximately 95,000 gallons of waste released due to a broken irrigation hydrant. The incident occurred from March 4 to March 5. Upon notification, C&J Finishers turned off the pump and took action to contain the waste. Water samples were collected, and the Division of Water Resources confirmed that there are no public drinking water system intakes in the affected area.

Fake registration plate leads to arrest

Beulaville

Beulaville Police arrested Kari Taylor last Saturday after allegedly stopping her for driving a vehicle with fake registration plates and suspicious activity at a Speedway store. According to law enforcement, the officer found 60 Oxycodone pills during during a search of the vehicle. Taylor was charged with multiple drug offenses and taken to the Duplin County Jail. She received a $60,000 bond.

3 arrested in drug, weapons bust

Wallace Deputies with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office seized more than 340 grams of marijuana, marijuana shatter, an Anderson AM-15 rifle, a FNS 9mm handgun, numerous rounds of ammunition and various drug paraphernalia after conducting a traffic stop at Teachey Park in Wallace on March 2. Rashawn M. Lemon, 19, Omari J. Kenan, 18, and Wuilfredo N. Perez, 19, were arrested and face multiple felony charges.

Fight captured on video leads to charges

Beulaville

The Beulaville Police Department confirmed last week that Austin Batts, 25, and Russell Guagliardi, 27, have been charged with affray in connection with a public altercation. The incident occurred Feb. 28 and gained attention after a video surfaced on Facebook. The footage shows the two men fighting in the middle of the road near the Speedmart, which caused a traffic disruption until a third person intervened and separated them.

$2.00

Students raise vaping dangers awareness

East Duplin High School students Alondra Morales, Zoe Thigpen, Madison Kornegay, Harley Lanier and Gavin Jarman stand alongside guest speaker Charlene Zorn and instructor Richard Goldsby at James Kenan High School last Thursday. The students organized the guest speaker’s visit to various schools in Duplin County to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping. Find out more on page A6.

Faison Town Board considers budget, renovations ahead of Farmers’ Parade

“I don’t think our machine is going to last that long.”

Billy Ward, Faison mayor

The board approved the purchase of a new backhoe

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

FAISON — The town of Faison weighed proposed renovations against budgetary responsibilities at their monthly meeting Wednesday evening as they continue working closely with the Faison Improvement Group (FIG) to prepare the town for its annual Farmer’s Parade and Street Festival on March 15.

Following a presentation from Faison native Ron Oates and George Carr of FIG, the board unanimously approved the town’s cooperation with FIG in sourcing and installing signs at sites of historic significance, as identified by Oates and Carr.

Mayor Billy Ward advised that the town had obtained a quote from Bradley White of White’s Tree Service for the removal of nine dead trees,

shrubs and stumps along Main Street, in addition to a large tree limb hanging over the road near Faison Garage.

“It’s been a trying time over the last several years on those trees,” said Jimmy Tyndall, the town’s executive administrator.

“I do want to state for the record that we have no obligation to trim that limb,” said Tyndall. Ward explained that they received a reasonable quote for the required work and mentioned that White had agreed to remove the problematic trees ahead of the parade. After reaching a consensus, the board moved to approve the contract.

The Faison Christmas tree will also meet its end at the hands of White’s Tree Service. Standing nearly 30 -feet tall, the once charming tree has grown into a nuisance that’s become difficult to manage. “We can’t get around it,” said Tyndall, adding that they’ve had an

See FAISON, page A6

Former Duplin County superintendent dies at 86

L.S. Guy Jr., an educator and public servant, was remembered for his lifelong contributions

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

BORN AND RAISED in Calypso, Leonard Steele Guy Jr. had a remarkable life dedicated to education and public service.

He attended the former Calypso grade school and graduated from North Duplin High School.

In 1961, he earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education from East Carolina University, and in 1971, he obtained a master’s degree in educational administration.

Guy began his career in education at NDHS as a science

teacher and coach, serving for seven years. His contributions to the school were highly valued, and in 1965, his students dedicated the school yearbook to him, expressing their deep appreciation for his guidance, belief in them and hard work in helping them succeed.

In 1968, he became the principal of NDHS, working his way up within the education system.

He emphasized careful planning and staff development, prioritizing the creation of a supportive environment for each student. His leadership was centered on establishing clear, planned educational objectives to maximize opportunities for student success.

In 1973, Guy was named

Mount

Olive discusses infrastructure, finances

Planning board members were reappointed to two-year terms

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — Last week, Mayor Jerome Newton opened the Mount Olive town council meeting by establishing rules for acceptable behavior among attendees. He cautioned that commissioners who attack one another would receive warnings, and their speaking time would be limited. Following public comments, the board reappointed Julie Beck, Sondra Russell, Steve Martin and Nydia Lopez to the Planning Board for another two-year term, expiring on Jan. 1, 2027. The board also approved an upset bid of $3,200 for selling two lots at the intersection of Gordon and Oliver streets, directly across from the town’s water plant. The highest bidder was Bobby Denning Properties, LLC. Additionally, the board designated Police Chief Jason Hughes as a secondary check signer. Interim Town Manager Glenn Holland reported that new street signs have been ordered for Breazeale Avenue and Church Street. The town will evaluate its remaining budget to select a couple of additional streets, likely to include Main Street and

See MOUNT OLIVE, page A2

K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL

L.S. Guy Jr.

3.13.25 #65

K.D.

“Join the conversation”

Happening Monthly

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

The Beulaville town board meets the first

the water department, call the town hall number, and we will get you to the right place where we can get the information and get a work order created,” said Holland, explaining that they are trying to implement a work order program.

He stressed the importance of obtaining the name of the person who takes the call when reporting an issue.

The town is reviewing its water billing practices, including meter readings, billing adjustments and cutoff procedures. Changes are expected to be implemented within 30 to 60 days.

Holland provided an update on the materials needed for upgrading the water plant, stating they should arrive by the end of March, with the project expected to commence in late April or early May.

He reported that the town is working to reduce wastewater flows to under 800,000 gallons per day at the wastewater treatment plant to address the moratorium. “This past month, our flows have gotten down to 900,000 gallons a day. If we can get down to 800,000 gallons a day to maintain that, that’s going to go a long way,” said Holland. Additionally, Holland reported that two security cameras are

Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at 508 East Main St. in Beulaville. For more information, call 910 298 4647.

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

• The Faison town board meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 110 NE Center St. in Faison. For more information, call 910 267 2721.

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

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

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

• The Teachey town board meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at 116 East 2nd St. For information, call 910 285 7564.

The Warsaw town board meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m., at 121 S. Front St. For information, call 910 293 7814.

• The Magnolia town board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at 108 Taylor St. in Magnolia. For information, call 910 289 3205.

The Rose Hill town board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at 103 Southeast Railroad St. For more information, call 910 289 3159.

• The Duplin County Health Department is offering Diabetes Self Management Classes from 1 5 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 340 Seminary St. in Kenansville. For information, call 910 372 9178.

The Wallace town council meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at 316 East Murray St. in Wallace. For more information, call 910 285 4136.

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

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

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

currently operational, with plans to add six total. He explained that progress was delayed due to inclement weather, but Spectrum is working on internet connections for the poles.

Various commissioners praised Holland for his expertise and leadership in addressing the town’s issues, urging patience as progress unfolds.

Commissioner Delreese Simmons spoke about the town’s financial mismanagement, holding up a newspaper for everyone to see. “People say I’m just blowing smoke. But when the representative that we keep begging money for said it, is it a joke now? It’s not a joke,” said Simmons, adding that when he said it, some people dismissed it, but when Rep. John Bell criticized the town’s management, it’s no longer taken as an exaggeration.

Simmons raised concerns about the local airport, stating that it has not turned a profit in over a decade. He criticized the town for continuing to allocate resources to the airport without seeing a return on investment, noting that this situation is affecting the town’s ability to fund other essential services.

“That airport hasn’t made any money, not one penny. But we’re constantly pushing money

out there — money that can be spent in this town… That airport is draining this town,” Simmons said, visibly frustrated. He questioned whether the town intends to operate in this manner for another decade.

“Things got to get better. So what are we going to do? Continue for another 10 years? A decade with the airport not making money? We have the lowest prices of fuel around here. The CPA guy said it. He said, ‘y’all need to up the rates,’” Simmons added.

The meeting concluded with remarks from Newton, who expressed support and optimism regarding Holland’s leadership.

“In spite of all the things that have happened in this town prior, I think the one thing so far that’s been good is bringing him in as the interim town manager. I often say to him, ‘You may be the interim town manager, but don’t think like an interim town manager. Think like a town manager. Make decisions as a town manager.’ And I think he’s doing that,” said Newton.

“We are, to some degree, on the right track. Be patient and see what happens. And as far as funds are concerned, we do plan to ensure that these funds are monitored the way they should be monitored.”

Duplin leads NC with global STEM certification

The school board celebrated STEAMA success at its monthly meeting

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — In an update on Duplin County Schools’ STEAMA learning initiative at the Board of Education’s monthly meeting Tuesday night, Kevin Smith, assistant superintendent for educational innovation and accountability, shared exciting news: Duplin County is the first and currently only North Carolina school district to achieve Cognia’s globally-recognized STEM Certification, illustrating the county’s commitment to ensuring the career-readiness and academic success of every student from grade school to graduation and beyond.

Smith, along with Nicole Murray, chief academic officer for STEAMA curriculum and instruction/professional development, and Lindsay Skidmore, director of 6-8 curriculum/digital innovation, gave a presentation highlighting the initiative’s success following its implementation nearly seven years ago as part of the board’s regular meeting on March 4.

The achievement places Duplin County Schools in the company of just one other district in the entire eight-state mid-Atlantic region, consisting of North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky, in attaining STEM certification through the Atlanta-based nonprofit’s international accreditation program.

In recognition of the accomplishment, Cognia has provided a flag and certificate commemorating the district’s certification, both now on display in the O.P. Johnson Building boardroom in Kenansville, as well as certificates

for each school in the county.

“Duplin County was recognized last week at the Cognia Impact Conference along with just two other North Carolina and South Carolina districts with the Cognia Circle of Excellence Award for 2024,” Smith said. “We thank Dr. (Austin) Obasohan for the STEAMA vision and for leading this work, and our board for supporting our mission to graduate every student ready for careers, college and life.”

The STEAMA (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math and Agriculture) initiative launched in July 2018 through a rebranding committee led by Obasohan, the superintendent.

“The STEAMA model connects student interest with local, well-paying careers, particularly in agricultural and related industries, which are

NC 111 in Duplin to experience intermittent closures this spring

NCDOT crews will replace aging drain pipes at 14 locations

Duplin Journal staff

BEULAVILLE — The North Carolina Department of Transportation announced last week that a 10-mile section of N.C. 111 between N.C. 241 in Beulaville and N.C. 11 in Duplin County will experience intermittent closures as crews replace aging drain pipes.

Work will take place Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is expected to wrap up by June, weather permitting. According to the announcement, each section of the road will be closed during construction but will be patched and reopened

to traffic once the work is done.

Work will begin near N.C. 241 and progress north along N.C. 111.

The closures are necessary to replace pipes that are nearing the end of their lifespan at 14 locations. The new, larger pipes will improve storm drainage in the area.

During construction, residents and businesses will still have access to their properties, although work areas will be barricaded for safety.

Through-traffic will be rerouted via N.C. 241 and N.C. 11.

The detour will take drivers along N.C. 241 to Pink Hill, and N.C. 11 to access N.C. 111. Drivers are advised to expect longer travel times and to be cautious around the work zones.

NCDOT plans to resurface N.C. 111 later in the year.

the largest employers and economic drivers in Duplin County,” said Skidmore. “By increasing awareness of these opportunities before graduation, we encourage students to build their futures close to home.”

Part of the program’s success is owed to partnerships with local businesses, colleges and universities that provide students opportunities to explore higher learning and professional careers early on through hands-on, real-world experience.

The county has seen a surge in college enrollment through the Career and College Promise Program at James Sprunt Community College, with over 27,000 semester hours of college credit earned by students in the past five years, explained Smith during the presentation.

The program has saved fam-

ilies nearly $2 million in tuition, according to Smith, and has resulted in $11.2 million worth of scholarship funds being awarded to students in Duplin County who now have access to expanded vocational pathways through the JSCC sponsorship.

“Last year alone, we had 962 students complete a CTE (Career and Technical Education) pathway, and those students had a proficiency rate of 75% on their state and local assessments.” said Murray, indicating that Duplin County is ranked among the top 10 in North Carolina for their rate of credential attainment. “Our students earned 3,651 industry-recognized credentials last year,” continued Murray, adding that the number is expected to grow this year as students continue to earn credentials in areas like ServSafe, the health sciences,

“I think we’ve come a long way since 2017.”

Pam Edwards, Board of Education member

automotive service, Adobe and many others.

“I think we’ve come a long way since 2017,” said board member Pam Edwards in her comments post-presentation, expressing gratitude for the program. “The only thing we need to do now is get the message out to the public. They need to know what good things we’re doing.”

Chairman Brent Davis thanked everyone for their hard work and Obasohan for his vision.

“I don’t know another school system that really pulls agriculture in like we did,” said Davis.“The fact that we highlight it here, I think is really a testament to our program and our staff,” he continued.

Other highlights from the March 4 meeting included the presentation of the Clean School Award to Wallace-Rose Hill High School by Sandra Ganus, a Saffelle representative and Ronald Moore, Duplin County Schools maintenance director. Accepting the award on behalf of the school were Carolyn Pollock, Michael Brinson, James Linen and Carol Newkirk.

“I talk to you about teams, and boy, is this a team that won this time!” said Ganus as she presented the Wallace-Rose Hill custodial staff with their award. “High schools are tough to win!” she added.

The meeting also included the unanimous approval of a robust consent agenda by the board, as well as an executive session regarding the prevention of disclosure of confidential student information following incidents of school violence.

4 arrested in possession of handguns, drugs

Authorities seized several weapons, ammunition and marijuana

Duplin Journal staff

BEULAVILLE — Anthony James McCoy, 35, Trinity Alexis Smith, Prince Thompson and Nykia Shanice Hodges were arrested March 4 during a traffic stop on N.C. 111 Highway near Beulaville.

Duplin County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call about individuals potentially carrying guns in the area of Quinn Estates Loop Drive. Authorities identified a vehicle matching the suspect’s car at the intersection of N.C. 111 Highway and Turkey Branch Road, which led to the arrests of McCoy, Thompson, Smith and Hodges. During the incident, law enforcement seized marijuana, handguns, multiple rounds of ammunition and drug paraphernalia.

McCoy was charged with two counts of possession of a

firearm by a felon and put on a secured bond set at $30,000.

Smith was charged with carrying a concealed weapon and possession of marijuana. Thomson faces charges for

communicating threats and resisting a public officer, and Hodges is facing charges for carrying a concealed weapon and possession of drug paraphernalia.

K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Ronald Moore, Duplin County Schools maintenance director, presents Wallace-Rose Hill custodial staff with the Clean School Award in recognition of their hard work and dedication at the Board of Education’s monthly meeting March 4. From left to right are Carolyn Pollock, James Linen, Michael Brinson, Carol Newkirk and Ronald Moore.

Nykla Hodges

Prince Thompson

Anthony McCoy

Trinity Alexis

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| MICHAEL BARONE

A formidable president storms ahead

His approval rate is steady at just under 50%, while Republicans keep making gains in party registration.

SOME THOUGHTS spring to mind after President Donald Trump’s 100-minute address to Congress.

The first is that this 78-year-old man has amazing resilience and perseverance. Consider that in the past 12 months, he has had to spend hours listening to a kangaroo court proceeding before a hostile judge in New York, has maintained a campaign rally schedule that would daunt candidates half his age, has participated in planning sessions for a detailed set of executive orders he might never have an opportunity to issue, has faced the former president and vice president of the United States in televised debates with moderators he had reason to believe were biased against him, and suffered a bullet wound that came within 1 inch of killing him.

Around minute 98, he made mention of the last. This inspired sympathizers in the House chamber to echo the cries of “Fight! Fight! Fight!” he made as he rose above his Secret Service protectors.

A second thing to say is that, long before minute 98, his speech was almost entirely about what he has been doing, saying, proposing and persuading others to do. Four paragraphs near the end gracefully evoked themes from history, but he otherwise spoke about his orders withdrawing from United Nations institutions, eliminating government censorship (while renaming the Gulf of Mexico), overturning racially discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion policies, and his Department of Government Efficiency’s identification of dubious U.S. Agency for International Development programs.

Instead of an overarching vision of where the world stands in history, he quoted Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s letter apologizing for his comments the previous Friday and promising to sign the mineral rights deal he had criticized in the televised exchange that for once showed the public what leaders look and sound like in what

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

diplomats call “a full and frank exchange.”

My third observation is that, as the Zelenskyy letter suggests, Trump is mostly getting his way. It was surely no accident that the narrow and previously fractious Republican majority in the House elected a speaker and passed a budget resolution with just one dissenting vote. Similarly, Trump’s top-level appointees have all been confirmed by the Senate. Neither foreign leaders nor domestic partisans want to defy this aggressive man with three years, 10 months and two weeks left in his term.

Fourth, there was no return to norms of civil discourse. Trump called former President Joe Biden “the worst president in American history” and condemned “the open-border, insane policies that (Biden had) allowed to destroy the country.” Democrats have a point when they say Trump started this with his derogatory nicknames for 2016 opponents. Republicans have a point when they say Democrats escalated this with the Russia collusion hoax and baseless post-presidential prosecutions, unprecedented since former President Thomas Jefferson’s treason prosecution of former Vice President Aaron Burr. But neither Trump’s speech nor the Democrats’ childish behavior (that Trump predicted) in the audience moved to de-escalation.

Fifth, Trump continues to disregard freemarket economists’ (in my opinion, wise) advice. True, he is encouraging congressional Republicans to reup the tax-cut-for-all legislation they passed eight years ago, but with political payoff add-ons such as no tax on tips. However, he also devoted multiple paragraphs extolling his imposition of tariffs, notably on Mexico and Canada. Economists point out that the tariffs will likely raise the U.S. prices of many products, not just eggs. Voters won’t welcome something that looks like the Biden inflation, which could overshadow the Trump administration’s genuine successes.

This leads to my sixth observation: that he’s

Next: The law schools

I believed that the law and society would one day produce gender justice.

SHOULD THE GOVERNMENT be able to tell a private university what to teach and how to teach it?

Is there a libertarian left in the house?

This is the letter that former and current Trump lawyer (officially the interim D.C. U.S. Attorney) Ed Martin sent to the dean of Georgetown Law School:

“It has come to my attention reliably that Georgetown Law School continues to teach and promote DEI. This is unacceptable. I have begun an inquiry into this and would welcome your response to the following questions: First, have you eliminated all DEI from your school and its curriculum? Second, if DEI is found in your courses or teaching in any way, will you move swiftly to remove it?”

And then he went on to threaten Georgetown students:

“At this time, you should know that no applicant for our fellows program, our summer internship, or employment in our office who is a student or affiliated with a law school or university that continues to teach and utilize DEI will be considered.” Martin and his boss want to tell law schools what they can teach and how to teach it. And he is willing to punish their students — and deprive his office of top talent from top universities — if they don’t comply.

The dean of Georgetown Law School responded strongly, as he should.

“Given the First Amendment’s protection of a university’s freedom to determine its own curriculum and how to deliver it, the constitutional violation behind this threat is clear, as is the attack on the University’s mission as a Jesuit and Catholic institution,” William Treanor wrote in his response to Martin.

I spent more than 30 years as a tenured law professor at Harvard Law School and USC Law School. During most of those years, I taught a course originally entitled “Sex Discrimination” and later called “Gender Discrimination.” The course covered the history of women’s rights, legal precedents under the 14th Amendment, and federal and state statutory law. We looked at various areas of law covered in other courses — like criminal law and property law and tort law — where issues of gender must be considered.

I used to think, in the early days, that a time would come when issues of gender would be addressed in all these other classes, and we wouldn’t need a separate course. I believed that the law and society would one day produce gender justice; that there would literally be nothing left to teach except history.

It never happened. The last class I taught before stepping down to practice law full time was a seminar on diversity in the legal profession. There was a great deal to teach, unfortunately, and much of it grew out of the absence of diversity, particularly at the highest

aware that the Constitution and calendar set limits on his time. Early in his speech, Trump noted that measures of illegal crossings on the southern border have immediately dwindled to almost nothing. Smugglers and potential illegals clearly got his message, even as Democrats and much of the press argued that only new legislation could stop the flow. His only problem is that solving a problem can deprive you of an issue. Former President George H.W. Bush’s deft handling of foreign policy problems left voters concluding they didn’t need him after the Cold War. Success can breed failure.

But for a time, it can breed success. The first words of Article II of the Constitution state, “The executive power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America.” Those words, plus recent Supreme Court decisions, suggest that most decisions limiting Trump’s administrative powers will not stand. Current polls show that Trump’s disapproval is rising, but his approval rate is steady at just under 50%, while Republicans keep making gains in party registration.

What is Trump planning for years two, three and four? I’m not sure, and I suspect he’s not, either. Trump knows the Constitution’s 22nd Amendment prevents him from running again. He must know that’s likely to reduce his clout with foreign leaders and American politicians. More importantly, he’s aware his time may be cut short. In the House chamber, as in his convention speech on July 19, he remembered how he had narrowly escaped death on July 13.

“I believe my life was saved that day in Butler,” he said, “for a very good reason. I was saved by God to make America great again — I believe that. I really do.” Like him or not, he is a formidable man.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime coauthor of “The Almanac of American Politics.”

levels of the profession. This was only a few years ago.

Would my course be banned by Martin?

Presumably so.

And so would my criminal law class, which I began teaching in 1981, which was the first criminal law class in the country to incorporate rape as a major topic in criminal law, something I urged other law professors to try in an article I wrote for the Yale Law Journal in the 1980s. Maybe that should have been banned, too?

I told my students about my own experience as a rape victim, before I started law school, and how it shaped my view of the criminal justice system.

I taught them about the history of racism and sexism that had shaped the development of rape law. My students, some 40 years later, have told me how much they remembered those classes and how much they learned.

Should such discussions also be banned? Shall we only look at the law from the perspective of a white man?

The law schools are ready to fight Martin. My Facebook feed is full of promises from law professors ready to challenge Martin’s right to dictate the subjects we teach. We will win this fight, but the idea that we need to have it, in 2025, is both shocking and frightening.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.

COLUMN

Kenansville man wins $1M prize in new scratch-off game

After taxes, the winner will receive a payout of more than $400K

Duplin Journal staff

KENANSVILLE — The North Carolina Education Lottery announced last week that

Edward Bass Jr. from Kenansville is the first winner of the $1 million top prize for their new lottery game — Lucky Loteria, which launched last week with four top prizes of $1 million. Bass purchased his $10 scratch-off ticket at Kenansville Food Mart on Mallard

Street and cashed in his winnings after visiting the lottery headquarters, where he had to decide between two payout options. He could either receive the $1 million prize as an annuity, where he’d get $50,000 per year for 20 years, or take a lump sum of $600,000. Bass decided to go with the lump sum option, which, after taxes, resulted in a payout of $430,503. The North Carolina Education Lottery provides tips on understanding lottery odds and how to enter bonus drawings through its Play Smart program. Visit morethanagame. nc.gov for more information.

Beulaville Elementary students celebrate Read Across America with special visit

As part of Read Across America, a nationwide celebration of reading, Miss Sandhills 2025 Carly Peeters visited Beulaville Elementary last week. The students were filled with excitement as Peeters entered the classroom wearing her sparkling tiara and read to the children.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 28 marriage licenses for the month ending on Feb. 28, 2025.

Sara Vasquez Gordillo, Magnolia, and Luis Angel Lopez Rojas, Magnolia;

• Maria Sandoval De La Rosa, Rose Hill, and Domingo Shilon Mendez, Rose Hill; Brooklyn Taylor Groll, Mount Olive, and William Alicea Jr., Mount Olive; Jerry Singletary, Clinton, and Michelle Denise Howard, Clinton;

• Matthew Ryan Pope, Wallace, and Miriane Prudencia Chaves, South Carolina; Kayla Dixon Bradshaw, Wallace, and Jeremy Dewayne Smith, Beulaville;

assistant superintendent of Duplin County Schools, where he also served as director of personnel and in-service training and instruction for four years before being promoted to assistant superintendent. His leadership and dedication earned him a reputation as an enthusiastic and energetic young principal, as noted in a 1973 article in the Progress Sentinel.

Guy was appointed superintendent of the Duplin County School System in 1981, where he served for 18 years until his retirement in July 1999.

After retiring as superintendent, Guy continued his commitment to public service. In 2000, he was elected to the Duplin County Board of Commissioners, serving two terms.

Guy died unexpectedly on March 3 at his home in Faison at the age of 86.

Guy made a significant impact throughout his life by actively contributing to his community in various ways. He served on the Faison Fire Department and was a town commissioner for the town of Faison. Additionally, he was involved with the Faison Improvement Group and the N.C.

• Madison Brilee Keel, Magnolia, and Jason Caleb Sholar, Magnolia; Tabitha Karen Rivenbark, Castle Hayne, and Anthony Roney Espinoza, Rose Hill;

• Mayra Gabriela Lopez Diaz, Dudley, and Abinadab Salas Velazquez, Dudley;

• Oscar Efrain De La Cruz, Mount Olive, and Graciela Luz Alvarado Garcia, Mount Olive; Emelin Stefani Maldonado, Teachey, and Brayan Yovany Aviles Fuentes, Teachey;

• Clifton Dushune Outlaw, Wallace, and Lee Shontele Mcdowell, Elizabethtown; Thomas Dean Thigpen, Beulaville, and Ella Heath Evelyn, Beulaville;

• Lester Harold Foreman Jr, Mount Olive, and Shelbia

Carlton Robinson, Mount Olive; Tanisha Octavia Renee Johnson, Teachey, and Kesharia Breona Wadsworth, Teachey;

• Ilmer Roberto Ortez Coreas, Mount Olive, and Sindy Elena Garcia, Mount Olive; Jenny Venegas Rodarte, Chinquapin, and Juan Carlos Bravo Reyes, Seven Springs; Romel Leonardo Gamez Hernandez, Magnolia, and Rosa Aminta Gomez Diaz, Magnolia;

• Leia Rosita Rodriguez, Warsaw, and Brayan Guardado, Warsaw; Robert William Gibbons, Wallace, and Sandra Renee Cole, Beulaville;

• Ian Parker Schwartz,

Mount Olive license plate agency reopens

Mount Olive

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles reopened the license plate agency located at 225 N.W. Center St. in Mount Olive on Tuesday. The office will be open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services such as vehicle registration, title transactions, license plate renewals and more can be sought at the agency.

Support the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department

Magnolia

The Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department will host its annual barbecue and chicken plate sale fundraiser on Saturday, March 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will take place at 238 N. Monk St. Enjoy a delicious barbecue and chicken combo with all the fixings for $12 per plate, or choose one meat with all the fixings for $10. The MVFD will also deliver orders of more than 10 plates. Don’t miss out — grab a plate while they last! Proceeds from the event will benefit the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department.

UMO plans Giving Day for April 1

Mount Olive

Rural Internet Access Commission, and he served as chairman of the board of directors at Liberty Hall, among other roles. His legacy includes not only

his many years of service as an educator and administrator but also his dedication to positively influencing the lives of those around him.

Beulaville, and Colleen Victoria Hazel, Beulaville; Alexis Lynn Faircloth, Burgaw, and Tyler Bailey Hart, Wallace;

• Beverly Lechez Newberne, Magnolia, and Dean Sylvester Vann, Magnolia;

• Justina Casey Johnson, Rose Hill, and Kyle Thomas Murphy, Rose Hill; Samuel Reynoso, Rose Hill, and Valeria Nicoll Castillo Torres, Rose Hill;

• Victoria Denise O’neal, Rose Hill, and Timothy Ray Waters, Rose Hill; Flonel Jeune, Warsaw, and Raymonde Dieudinon Pierre, Warsaw; Christian David Figueroa Roman, Faison, and Leydi Zamira Arita Chinchilla, Faison.

The University of Mount Olive is preparing for its annual Giving Day on April 1, themed “Thrive in ’25.” This event aims to raise $600,000 for innovation, academic programs and campus improvements. Creative giving options include an Early Bird Match for the first 50 donors who will have their gifts doubled and a Final Countdown Challenge where last-minute donations will be matched 2-for-1. A 30 - day countdown campaign will culminate in a final five-day push leading up to the event. Visit the Giving Day website at umo.edu/giving-day for more details.

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

PHOTO COURTESY CARLY PEETERS

PHOTOS COURTESY DUPLIN COUNTY SCHOOLS Above, Leonard Steele Guy Jr. is pictured in North Duplin High School’s 1965 yearbook with a special dedication expressing the students’ appreciation for his hard work and guidance. Guy began his career in education at NDHS, where he served as a teacher for seven years.

Duplin Journal for Thursday, March 13, 2025

JKHS guest speaker warns of vaping dangers

Five East Duplin freshmen played a key role bringing Charlene Zorn to talk about the state’s first vaping-induced death

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Five East Duplin High School students were instrumental in coordinating with Duplin County’s Health Department, Sheriff’s Office and the Board of Education to arrange for guest speaker Charlene Zorn to visit James Kenan High School Thursday morning and share her step-son’s tragic story in an effort to raise awareness about the dangers posed by vaping, drug use and addiction.

James Kenan is the second school in Duplin County where students Zoe Thigpen, Madison Kornegay, Alondra Morales, Harley Lanier and Gavin Jarman arranged for Zorn to speak. This follows her initial appearance at East Duplin High School in 2024. After speaking at James Kenan, Zorn will also address students at North Duplin Jr./Sr. High School and at Wallace-Rose Hill High School later in the year.

The campaign arose as the unintended though auspicious result of an Honors Chemistry assignment at East Duplin High in December of 2024, in which students were placed into groups of five and tasked with working together to develop a project that would make a change in the Beulaville high school.

After days of discussion and debate amongst themselves about what change their group could pursue, the enterprising students came to a decision: the group would center their project around the prevalence

of vapes among their peers and the impact those implements have had on the community.

“One day Maddie came home and said “OK Mom, we’re going to do vaping,” recalled Madison’s mother, Tracey Simmons-Kornegay.

As Duplin County’s Health Director, Simmons-Kornegay had a few months prior attended the county’s annual Opioid Town Hall, where Zorn was a speaker, and shared with her daughter the story of Solomon Wynn, a 15-year-old New Hanover High School football player, who became the first person in the state to die as a result of vaping. Madison had an idea: what if they could arrange for Zorn to speak to the class for their project?

Part of Simmons-Kornegay’s duties include oversight of the Opioid Response Team. Composed largely of retired teachers, the Opioid Response Team utilizes the recently implemented Too Good

for Drugs curriculum to educate first, third, fifth, seventh and ninth grade students on the dangers of drug use and addiction as part of the county’s early intervention strategy to combat the opioid crisis. Richard Goldsby, a retired teacher and former United States Marine responsible for the administration of the curriculum over a nine-week period at high schools across Duplin County, was teaching the Too Good for Drugs program to freshmen at East Duplin High while the five students were working on their project.

“Here I am, both of them are running parallel, and I just happen to intersect,” said Simmons-Kornegay. She encouraged her daughter to reach out to Goldsby, as Madison and Thigpen had both been members of his flag detail team in elementary school.

“They were my captains, and they ran a tight ship,” recalled Goldsby. Once the group had found a mentor in Goldsby, the

Seniors boost their health with cardio drumming

Last week, a group of seniors gathered at the Senior Center in Kenansville for a fun and safe cardio drumming workout. This low impact workout combines rhythmic drumming with aerobic movement, providing seniors with an enjoyable way to exercise. The class lasts about 30 minutes and is designed to boost both physical and emotional well being. It improves cardiovascular health, enhances coordination, reduces stress and increases overall stamina.

project picked up momentum. Goldsby helped the group get permission for Zorn to come speak to ninth-graders currently enrolled in his Too Good for Drugs program by contacting the principal and working with the Board of Education to approve her visit.

On Dec. 12, 2024, Zorn joined Thigpen, Kornegay, Morales, Lanier, and Jarman at East Duplin High School and shared with the freshmen class the heart-breaking consequences of vaping addiction. The presentation was a great success and made an impact at the school.

After the presentation at East Duplin, the students coordinated with Sheriff Stratton Stokes, local principals, Health Department officials and the Board of Education to bring Solomon Wynn’s story to high schools across the county.

Though she’d previously spoken to adults about the dangers of vaping, the presentation was the first time Zorn had the op -

FAISON from page A1

issue with bagworms in the tree. “I’m surprised they haven’t killed the tree, actually,” Mayor Pro-Tem Susan McCarty mused. The town will replace the giant with a cluster of three trees with LED bulbs that will circumvent the hassles currently faced.

The town’s distressed backhoe was also a topic of discussion.

“If we order a backhoe from pretty much any one of these companies, it’s going to be three to four months out,” explained Ward. “Even if we budgeted into the next year, it would be Christmas before we could get it, and I don’t think our machine is going to last that long,” he continued.

“That one we’ve got, when I say it’s bleeding… it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when,” added Tyndall. Motions were approved to allocate funds and purchase a new John Deere backhoe from James River Equipment for $134,298.30, minus $8,000 for a trade-in of the current backhoe.

In other business, Faison Recreation and Wellness Center Director Matthew Scott advised the Board that con-

“I want to save your life.”

Charlene Zorn, guest speaker

portunity to speak with children who were the same age as her stepson when his life was cut tragically short. “When I’m looking at these kids, I’m looking at Solomon,” said Zorn. Thursday morning, Zorn recounted the events leading up to her stepson’s death on June 17, 2023, and the impact the loss has had on her and her family for a gymnasium of ninth grade James Kenan High School students and implored them to seek help if they’d engaged in risky behavior like vaping or drug use that could mean dire consequences for their health. “The most important thing is to have an honest conversation with your parents,” said Zorn. “I want to save your life,” she continued. What began as a class project has developed into a county-wide initiative to raise awareness of the dangers that vaping, drug use and addiction present to the community thanks to the resourcefulness of Thigpen, Kornegay, Morales, Lanier and Jarman, as well as the mentorship of Goldsby and the collaborative efforts of local educators, law enforcement and health officials throughout Duplin County. As Zorn continues to share Solomon’s story at the local high schools, she hopes students find a way to speak to their loved ones about the killer that’s found its way into the hands of children across the country — before it’s too late. In her closing remarks, Zorn left the freshmen of James Kenan with a final plea. “You have a future ahead of you. Don’t let something stupid take it away from you.”

struction had begun on a shelter in Faison Park and should be completed in time for the town’s Easter Egg Hunt in collaboration with FIG.

”We’re going to have it in the next week,” said Scott. “We did tweak the location a bit,” added Tyndall. “The original, we had wanted to put it alongside the concession stand,” continued Scott, who indicated that he had worked with Tyndall to ensure the shelter’s new location would allow for a walking trail to be accessible to mothers with strollers and those with disabilities. According to the Ward, the shelter will now be located between the walking trail and the playground. Scott also updated the board on the Recreation and Wellness Center’s after-school program, which is still growing. “It seems every two weeks somebody’s calling and they want to add a child, which is a great thing,” said Scott. Citing the program’s growth and scheduling conflicts among current instructors, Scott requested the board begin the process of hiring two new teachers for the 2025-26 school year. A motion was brought and unanimously accepted to begin recruitment efforts.

K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL

From left to right, Sheriff Stratton Stokes, Tracey Simmons-Kornegay, Kirsten Hall, Zoe Thigpen, Madison Kornegay, Charlene Zorn, Alondra Morales, Harley Lanier, Gavin Jarman, Cindy Zuniga Nolasco, Taylor Bowels and Richard Goldsby pose for a photo.

COURTESY DUPLIN COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES

DUPLIN SPORTS

Higginbotham,

Faison

end four-year run in fourth round

North Duplin got better as the season progressed, leading to its first visit to the fourth round of the 1A playoffs

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — The North Duplin girls’ basketball team had some amazing moments the previous three seasons, campaigns that the Rebels charted their way to a 64-12 mark and a pair of ECC titles and three conference tourney crowns.

Yet during that span the Rebels were as good in late-December as they were in tournament time.

This winter, the Rebels improved a little each week, as new, younger players worked to become comfortable with four-year starters Addy Higginbotham and Tateyawna Faison.

Sophomore shooting guard Abby Rose grew up immensely, as did freshman forward Maggie Brown.

And second-year starter Lilly Fulghum found several ways to contribute.

Higginbotham and Faison played their final game for the No. 6 Green and Gold last Friday during a 68-45 fourthround 2A playoff loss to No. 7 East Bladen (25-3).

It was the first time the Rebels advanced to the fourth round of the playoffs.

The Eagles face No. 1 Perquimans (28-2) in the East Region final this week, with the survivor taking on the West Region winner between No. 1 Bishop McGuiness (27-2 ) and No. 2 Cherokee (26-2) in Final Four action this week at Winston-Salem’s Joel Lawrence Memorial Coliseum.

North Duplin (24-5)

whipped No. 3 Northside-Pinetown (27-2) last Tuesday 58-45 to snap the Panthers’ 18-game winning streak.

“We didn’t play our best, but we played better basketball at the end of the season,” said first-year coach Jon Kornegay. “Our girls played hard and didn’t quit.

“It’s been a joy to coach them and see the individual and team growth. We had a great season. But as I said at the beginning of the season, this is about having a good program next year and the seasons that follow.”

While ND is 88-17 in the past four seasons, winning hasn’t been the norm before the arrival of Higginbotham and Faison, two 1,000-point performers who graduate in June.

In the previous 13 seasons, ND went 20-197 for a 9.85 winning percentage. That included: four seasons with zero wins, three seasons with one win, four with two victories and two in which the Rebels suffered 20 losses. Its best

Evers’ Eagles ‘White’-out Panthers in fourth round

Gabrielle White scored 21 points as the catalyst for Seaforth’s 53-32 win over East Duplin, which finishes its year with 25-3 mark

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

PITTSBORO — On land, terrestrial carnivores, such as a panther, can make a quick meal after an eagle makes silky touch down.

The East Duplin Panthers’ girls’ basketball team easily digested a Northeastern Eagle team in the third round of the 2A playoffs last Tuesday in Beulaville.

But three days later, Eagle guard Gabrielle White never touched the ground long enough for the Panthers to trap her.

White, who scored 21 points, was the catalyst when No. 2 Seaforth dismantled No. 3 East Duplin 53-32 on Friday to advance to the East Region finals opposite No. 12 Southeast Alamance, which has knocked down No. 1 Fairmont and No. 4 Goldsboro. That survivor awaits the winner in the West Region,

where No. 1 North Wilkes (29 -1) faces No. 2 East Burke (30-1).

The loss ends a 16-game winning streak for the Panthers, who finished 25-3. That mark ties the Panthers club from 2018 as the second-most wins during head coach Mark Lane’s 17-year tenure. Lane (310-114) guided East Duplin to its ninth 20-win season since taking over in 2009.

White shines strong light, inspires teammates

White, a senior combo guard who is averaging 18 points and nearly 10 rebounds, was on target driving and from behind the 3-point arch. She canned a pair of bombs during a 14-point opening quarter, which saw Seaforth (28-2) jump to a 17-10 lead.

Her teammates joined the shooting party as the Eagles nailed 10 3-pointers the the Panthers’ four.

Kathleen Leonard (16 points) sank four 3-pointers, Mia Moore (six points) two, with Abigail Moore and Peyton Collins each zipping in a missile.

James Kenan head coach

Lee Sutton returns eight of nine starters from a season ago with hopes of moving up

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Lee Sutton’s second season as the head coach has a familiar theme.

While not new, the James Kenan lineup from top to bottom will be improved, since eight of nine starters from last season return to the diamond.

And future stock in the Tigers is on the rise.

“Getting all nine back next year, knowing it’s going to be our year,” said Sutton, the second-year coach and former Tiger athlete. “But we will be much better this year and there’s no telling what we can do if we get some things together this season.

Sutton, whose club went 5-13 overall and struggled to a 2-10 mark in the ECC last spring, says the tide is turning.

“I’m very optimistic,” he said.

“Our pitching has improved, and I don’t think we’ll have walk issues like we did last sea-

son, though we have to improve defensively. That’s a maturity thing. I’m good with us 1 to 6. Our biggest issue at the plate is striking out too much.”

Sophomore Hansley McGee is the ace of the pitching staff, with juniors Cal Avent and Brody Batchelor, juniors Eli Avent and Paxton Smith and frosh Trip Phipps in the rotation.

“I think we’ll play the field well around our pitchers and our outfield is good at tracking the ball down,” Sutton said.

Cal Avent (.318, 12 RBIs) will play third base when he’s not

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ND’s Addy Higginbotham was the undisputed leader of the Rebels.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK’s Cal Avent, who hit .318 with 12 RBIs, will play third base and pitch.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED coach Mark Lane and his Panthers were unable to figure out how to stop East Bladen’s offense.

Pate, Warren, Holmes, Quintanilla lead Rebels’ charge

New coach Cody Langston will have a mixture of veterans and youth on his first Rebel baseball team

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — First-year head coach Cody Langston is most concerned about how North Duplin bounces back from setbacks, which will come along the way with a club that has a mix of veterans and youth.

Langston, who took over for Colton Chrisman, got to know some of his players as an assistant for the North Duplin football team last fall.

Before that he was a coach and teacher at West Johnston High School.

The Rebels all but gave away their first game to South Lenoir by issuing 16 walks and committing four errors.

The Blue Devils scored just one earn run during their 15-8 win, which featured a six-run third and nine-run fourth.

ND outhit its 2A foe 8-4.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty with only one game in the books,” Langston said. “The biggest question I have is about the

SOFTBALL PREVIEW

resiliency of this team. How are we going to react now and again later when adversity hits?

North Duplin lost all-Duplin catcher Ashton Duff (.476, 32 RBIs), who transferred to Goldsboro’s East Carolina Academy

Top half of Tigers’ lineup is nightmare for pitchers

JK hit the softball hard last season and returns players who can find the gaps and clear the fences

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Craig Armstrong will be smiling when the Tigers hit this spring.

“We’ve got six or seven players that can really smack the ball,” said the James Kenan softball coach. I’m confident that our hitting will be fine with those girls, because when one or two gets hot they all seem to hit.”

James Kenan, 9-12 overall and 4-8 in ECC play last season, will need to shore up its defense and pitching rotation after losing Armstrong’s daughter and four-year starting pitcher Morgan Anna Morgan Armstrong, who is playing softball at Meredith College.

“It’s a tough position to fill because she was our pitcher and third-leading hitter,” said Armstrong, who watch his daughter hit .505 with eight doubles, seven home runs and hurl 95 of 110.1 innings last season for the Tigers.

Juniors Shylah Sloan and Ava Jones will step into the circle, though both are key two-way players when not pitching.

“You’ve got to have pitching, and we have to be consistent in that department and with our defense behind the pitcher,” Armstrong said.

Sloan, who hit .533 with six doubles, three triples, two homers and knocked in 12 runs, will play shortstop.

So could Jourdan Joe, who also has a sizzling stick -- .627 with 16 doubles, four homers and 23 RBIs.

Look for Jones, a junior, who was hurt last season and missed the bulk of the season, to be in the outfield or at third base.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK will look to Slylah Sloan for pitching and hitting. With a .533 average, Sloan had one of the best bats in Duplin County last season.

She hit .295 as a freshman and should be charting much higher this spring. Joe could also catch or Armstrong could use sophomore Kinzelyn Sloan behind the plate.

The Tiger skipper also feels freshman Landyn Boone will see extended playing time in the infield.

First base has been a battle between sophomore Scarlett DeLuca (.265) and freshman Carmen Mahoney.

Second base belongs to Kenadi Gideons (.367, five doubles). Look for outfield returnees Brenda Serrano and Kierra Wiliams, along with freshmen Kinzely Sloan and Ariana Jones to be lineup regulars.

“I think we’ll be a little better than we were last year,” Armstrong said. “It all hinges on pitching, because I feel we’re going to hit the ball well.”

James Kenan (1-2) dropped a pair of games to Pender and beat Clinton.

of Baseball, centerfielder Tanner Kornegay (.349, eight doubles, two triples), who graduated in June after starting for four seasons and Holden Williams (.389), who is playing golf this spring.

Yet there’s plenty left on the shelf for North Duplin, 12-9 overall and 7-2 in Carolina 1A Conference play a season ago.

Four-year starter Hunt Pate returns to play second base. Pate hit .352 with 19 RBIs last season.

“He brings talent at many levels and knowledge of baseball,” Langston said. “A lot of guys look up to him. He’s an all-around player that brings so much to our team.”

Veteran Garris Warren returns to the hot corner after hitting .317.

“He’s another all-around plyers and guy you want in the locker room,” Langston said. “Seniors to freshmen look up to him. He’s a solid infielder with a strong arm.”

Freshman Noah Price, who made his debut in basketball this winter, is ready for prime time.

“He’s one of the most talented kids we’ve had in a long while,” Langston said. “He’s young and experienced beyond his age. He’s only going to keep getting better.”

The same might be said of sophomore first baseman Noa Quintanilla, who made his presence known last season by hitting .333, with five

doubles, a triple and home run.

“He’s a very, very tough kid and one of our leaders,” Langston said. “He’s a player with potential to be much better.”

First base looks to be the spot for newcomer Kayden Bowden, a junior.

“He’s come around a lot from previous years,” Langston said.

Seniors Wesley Holmes (.322) and Branson Martin and sophomore Keiz will play in the outfield. Holmes is coming off knee surgery he suffered in football and an ankle injury from basketball.

Warren starts the campaign as ND’s No. 1 hurler. Price is second and Hunt third. But Kayden Bowden, Hayden Miller, and southpaws Ben Kelly and Keiz Brock make up the arms Langston and pitching coach Thomas Brickman can turn to for innings.

“We have a lot of players who can pitch, and we’ll use many if not all of them,” Langston said. “We’re a young team overall that needs to fix small mistakes to be a competitive team this year.

“Our goal is to win the conference, though I know Hobbton has a good team and Rosewood always puts a solid lineup on the field.”

Jenkins sees Panthers, Hawks,

Blue Devils as ECC front-runners

ED coach Greg Jenkins wants to reverse three close losses against SL and NL, who edged out the Panthers for supremacy In the ECC

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Last spring, the East Duplin lost three ECC softball games and a first-round tournament game by a total of five runs.

The three league losses put more than a fender-bender on the Panthers’ otherwise spotless 9-3 loop mark.

The Panthers, one of the top 2A programs in the East Region, will be looking for revenge against North Lenoir after 1615 and 13-11 losses to South Lenoir after a 2-1 heartbreaker.

The setback set the tone for a 1-0 loss to West Craven in the first round of the postseason, as East Duplin finished an uncharacteristic 12-10.

Head coach Greg Jenkins, who last season was inducted into the NC Softball Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame, sees an image in more than his rearview mirror.

“It’s probably going to come down to the three of us,” said Jenkins, who has more than 300 wins in Beulaville. “South has its pitching back (Callie Tyndall and Ashley Sasnett, who combined to go 13-2) and North some good hitting (such as Maddie Rouse .680, Kailey Birdwell .536 and Lakyn Whitley .522).”

But don’t count out the Panthers, who each spring face quality softball programs at North Duplin, Richlands, and Midway.

“We’re real young besides our two starting seniors and learn-

ing to be competitive, so we’ll be in the mix,” he said.

And the Panthers have what few other teams have in the form of a 4-year starter in the circle.

Last season, Morgan Brown was 10-7, with 88 strikeouts, 28 walks and a 4.36 ERA in 101 innings of work.

She will be the staff of the ace and also a key offensive player, who hit .391 with eight doubles and drove in 13 runs.

Second-year starter Rebecca Beach (.222) returns to her backstop spot to catch Brown or her day-off replacements Zoe Turner, a junior, or Sophie Jones, a freshman.

“Morgan’s been real effective and throwing as well as she

DUPLIN COUNTY – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR GRANT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES

4 housing units to be rehabilitated/ reconstructed. These houses are scattered throughout the county. The project will take place over the next 36 months. The County Board of Commissioners are soliciting proposals for grant administration services to assist the County in the administration and management of this project in compliance with all applicable requirements under the North Carolina CDBG-NR Program. The fee for grant administration services will be paid with CDBG-NR funds. Copies of the detailed request for proposals (RFP), including a description of the services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses, and the factors to be used to evaluate the responses, can be obtained by contacting Chris Hatcher 910-296-2102 or by visiting the County Administration Office located at 209 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC 28349. The above information should be submitted no later than March 28, 2025, 2:00 p.m. to Chris Hatcher, Duplin County, 209 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC 28349. For more information, contact Chris Hatcher at 910-296-2102. Duplin County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and

has in four years,” Jenkins said. “Her and Rebecca are the only starters who are returning to their positions from a year ago.”

Jenkins’ applecart lineup was shaken a two months ago when sophomore shortstop Ava Noble (.538, eight doubles, seen triples, two homers, 36 RBIs) suffered an knee injury and will miss the season with an ACL tear in her knee.

It allows Karsyn Parker (.438, seven doubles, 16 RBIs) to slide from second to short, with either Emory Raynor (.286, 10 RBI) or Kinsey Cave taking over second.

Freshman Leighton Davis, a sophomore, will play at third base and classmate Jones opposite her on the other corner position.

Cave is coming off playing basketball, which finished last Friday with ED falling in the fourth round of the playoffs.

Look for Raynor to DH or play in the outfield when Cave is up to speed. Or Cave might wind up in the grasslands.

Mainstays in the outfield will be Rayno, a senior, junior returnee Zoe Turner, along with sophomores Callie Newborn and Bella Kornegay.

Kennedy Jones, Sharla Stroud and Olivia Diffendorfer will also be seeking playing time in the outfield.

East Duplin lost Carly Grace Jenkins (.344), Kinsley Bond (.394, 33 RBIs) and Addison Tuck (.375, 17 RBIs) to graduation.

The Panthers (1-1) beat Clinton (17-0) to open the season and lost a 2-0 decision to Richlands, which returns two quality hurlers and starts eight seniors. They open up ECC play on Friday with a trip to Deep Run to face South Lenoir.

First-pitch is slated for 6 p.m.

invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms. Duplin County invites the submission of proposals from certified Section 3 business concerns. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Chris Hatcher at 910-296-2102 or at 209 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC 28349 for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Chris Hatcher al 910-296-2102 o en 209 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC 28349 de alojamiento para esta solicitud.

Date: February 21, 2025

MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ND second baseman Hunt Pate hit .383 with 18 doubles, three triples and 62 stolen bases in 67 attempts during the previous three seasons.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Morgan Brown’s left arm and her batting stroke will be key for ED this spring.

ATHLETE

Wildcat hurlers Goin, Andrews combine to no-hit Panthers

Richlands beat rival ED 2-0 in an early-season test for both schools

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

RICHLANDS — Mackenzie

Goin has been a premier softball pitcher for Richlands the past three seasons.

She’s got help this spring from sophomore Addi Andrews.

The two hurlers combined to no-hit East Duplin during a 2-0 win last Friday.

The duo struck out 12 and Cameron Cubas and LaNayah Jackson scored the lone two runs in the fourth inning off Panther ace Morgan Brown.

Cubas reached on an error and scored via Jackson’s triple.

Richlands (4-2) fell to 3A DH Conley 4-1on Wednesday following a 3-1 setback to South Lenoir two days earlier.

Andrews has laced seven hits in first 20 at-bats for a team-leading .350 average. Her four RBIs are two less to Jackson, a senior off to a .316 start.

Goin is 3-2 with an ERA of 1.58 and has whiffed 58 in 31 innings. She was 31-14 with a 1.03 ERA the past three seasons, striking out 570 and allowing just 30 walks in more than 300 innings of work. The Wildcats have gone 54-19 during that stretch.

Andrews, also a senior, is 4-0 the past two seasons and is a .323 career hitter.

The two school meet again next Wednesday in Beulaville.

ED (1-1) clobber Clinton 17-1 to open its season.

Patriots handle Tigers and Bulldogs

Jourdan Joe and Kinzely Sloan each bashed a pair of hits and drove in a run, but it was not enough as James Kenan fell to Pender 18-6 last Friday in Warsaw.

Shylah Sloan, Carmen Mahoney, Kenadik Gideons and Landyn Boone each drove in a run for the Tigers (1-2).

Jayda Tozour, Haley Gantt and Kenyatta Jacobs each knocked in two runs for Pender (4-0), which beat Wallace-Rose Hill 17-7 two days later.

Bulldog Jansley Page returned from an injury to rip a single, double and drive in a run.

Classmate Chloe Straughn went 2-for-3, while freshman Keyonna Thomas was 1-for-3.

The Bulldogs scored seven times in the third to go in front 7-5. But the Patriots onslaught continued with four runs in the third, three in the fourth, six in the fifth and three in the sixth.

Two days earlier, Mattie Gavin hit a three-run homer and Ta’Nyiua Powell poked two hits and drove in a pair of runs WRH beat Hobbton 11-3 for the Bulldogs’ first win.

Sophie Sloan and Maggie Boone came through with a pair of hits.

WRH (1-3) scored three times in the third and seventh frames and dropped a five-spot on the Wildcats in the fifth inning.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

MacKenzie Goin is 31-14 with a 1.03 ERA the past three season, striking out 570 and allowing just 30 walks in more than 300 innings of work.

BASEBALL

Panthers-Bulldogs collide on Thursday

Today (Thursday) is an earlier-than-normal meeting between East Duplin and Wallace-Rose Hill, but expect fireworks nonetheless.

The Bulldogs broke a long losing streak to the Panthers last spring and that’s always a good indication of revenge slipping into the rivalry.

ED (1-2) fell to Richlands 7-5 and Clinton 4-3 last week after topping West Columbus 5-5 in its season opener.

Gavin Holmes (.400) and Austin Rouse (.333) have emerged as the top Panther hitters through three games.

Kyle Kern is 1-0 on the hill, with 10 strikeouts in each of his first two outings.

The Panther bats need to get going as the team is hitting .214.

JK (2-1) slipped by Pender 5-4 and Jones Senior 6-2 following its 14-4 opening-day setback to Clinton.

Eli Avent whacked three hits against the Trojans. Twin brother Cal added two RBIs and Paxton Smith knocked in a run with his two -hit performance.

Hansley McGee and Trip Phipps worked the mound for the Tigers, allowing two earned runs.

SOCCER

Tigers-’Dawgs finding success on the pitch

James Kenan and Wallace-Rose Hill were both 3-1 when the rivals met on the soccer pitch last Tuesday.

While the match was too late for this newspaper’s deadline, the winner was sure to come away from the confron-

tation with an added boost of confidence.

The Tigers have a pair of wins over Pender and one against Union, with its setback coming 5-1 via Swansboro.

Katherine Chirinos drilled in all seven goals during a 7-0 victory against Pender in the season opener. Karla Diaz dished out two assist and Yaneidi Cruiz and Anareli Avila each delivered a scoring pass.

Chirinos netted seven and Diaz had two goals and three assists two days later during a 10-1 zapping of the Spartans.

JK beat Union 2-1 last spring

“We challenged our team and they responded,” said JK head coach Kenny Williams. “Katherine and Karla are really locked in mentally and it sets a great example for the rest of our team.”

A team that dropped out of the Battle at the Beach allowed the Tigers to face 3A Swansboro.

Chirinos cut the lead to 4-1 and when it was over the Tigers felt they competed well against the Pirates (2-3-1).

“Our ladies gave me some weird looks when I added this game, but I feel they got a new level of belief in themselves,” Williams said.

Bri Maradiaga scored twice last Thursday when WRH stumped West Bladen 2-1. Gabby Debman picked up her fourth score of the season.

Two days earlier, Debman and Bayleen Flores provided first-half goals during a 2-1 triumph over Hobbton.

The Bulldogs swept the regular season series with the Tigers last spring, winning 2-1 in Teachey and 2-0 in Warsaw.

Both school made the 2A playoffs and were eliminated in the first round.

Gabby Debman

Wallace-Rose Hill, girls’ soccer

Gabby Debman has Wallace-Rose Hill on a victory cycle.

The sophomore has scored four goals in four matches as the Bulldogs soccer team has captured three wins.

She scored twice in a 7-0 win over East Columbus, a goal in a 2-1 win over Hobbton and another during a 3-0 conquest of West Bladen.

WRH, 3-1, lost its home opener to Trask 2-1.

Debman is on a pace to exceed her freshman tally of 10 goals in 18 games.

WRH went 10-8 last spring under head coach Jordan Boser. It was the most wins by a Bulldogs team since the soccer program started 14 years ago.

from page B1

on the bump. Batchelor (.167) is the man at second base and McGee (.333) his double-play partner at second base.

Paxton (.234) will catch. Eli Avent (.394) will pitch and take the infield position of the pitcher when he’s not on the hill.

Sutton is also high on Phipps, who will play in right field, with junior speedster Jeremiah Hall in center and classmate Shane Braswell in left.

Seniors Daniel Grady and Josh Mitchell will be outfielders and also DH.

Look for Tyquise Wilson, a senior, to be on the field as well, and running the bases when he gets aboard.

“We’ve got to get the bottom of the order moving and we’re also going to bunt and move

runners around,” Sutton said.

James Kenan’s lone conference wins last season came against Kinston, though the Tigers should be more competitive against Duplin foes Wallace-Rose Hill and East Duplin and JK will have to step it up against North Lenoir, Southwest Onslow and South Lenoir, the top three in the league a season ago. James Kenan (2-1) opened the season with of wins over Pender and Jones Sr. and a loss to Clinton.

The Tigers were to host East Duplin on Tuesday and finish off the week on Friday trip to WRH to face another second-year head coach and former ’Dawg Logan Kissner.

First pitch in Teachey is slated for 6 p.m.

The two schools meet again in Warsaw on April 18.

MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL

BASEBALL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Paxton Smith’s defense behind the plate could be more important than his offense for JK.

White provided for herself and her teammates, while being a mismatch for anyone on the Panthers’ roster.

“She either got her shot or created for someone else,” Lane said. “We played hard, but that was not our best effort. It came down to us not making enough plays against a really good team.” Lane said scoring droughts were spears to the heart of the offense.

“We talked about how to slow them down and how we would have to score to put pressure on them,” he said. “Maybe we went to the manto-man too early, I don’t know. But turnovers and their transition game hurt us.”

Seaforth took two backcourt players out of the game, clamping down on point guard Kinsey Cave and shooting guard Makya Kornegay.

Cave was limited to five first-quarter points, while also keeping her off her game. Kornegay failed to score.

East Duplin’s biggest weapon was post Ja’Myah Pickett. The senior scored 12 points and probably four of her best baskets in the paint this season.

Staying close, falling off the pace

Merely hanging with talented and experienced Seaforth was a challenge.

Cave was able to generate offense for the Panthers early, but ED missed several good

shots in the second quarter. A bomb by Ra’Ziaha Hall and power move by Pickett trimmed the lead to 22-16, but Morgan and White made backto-back 3. Pickett had another score down low and a pair of free throws to keep ND close at halftime at 31-21. Down 38-28 after Pickett dipped under a pair of defenders for a basket, a 3-pointer by Leonard and put-back by White left Seaforth in control 43-30 entering the fourth quarter.

Seaforth put on a layup clinic in the fourth, as missed Pan-

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

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)].

Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

as recorded in Book 573, Page 547 of the Duplin County Registry.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 605 Forrest Rd, Warsaw, NC 28398.

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC

Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC

Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403

PHONE: (910) 392-4988

File No.: 23-32293-FC01

the final home game on Jerry

Hunter Court. Carr got six of her 13 markers as ED built a 15-5 lead. Cave had four assists and an end-to-end layup to end the first half scoring with ED on top 23-12.

Up 39-13 after Northeastern’s head coach, assistant coach and a player were ejected following a series of outbursts, which included several flagrant fouls, ED put this one away quickly.

Pickett, who threw down for 15, punched in a hoop via a Carr assist and then had a rebound score a minute later.

Carr came up with a conventional 3-point play and then a crowd-pleasing block that led to a 3-point play by Pickett as the lead ballooned to 51-15.

Northeastern even struggled against the Panthers’ reserves in the final quarter, despite scoring the final seven points of the game.

A note to remember

ther shots turned into easy baskets on the other end of the floor.

The Eagles held the Panthers to nine points in the second half, frustrating Cave, who was Ms. Basketball in Duplin County a season ago and a second-team District 2 selection, and her teammates.

Panthers devour

Northeastern Eagles

Pickett and Carrie Carr dominated the third quarter of ED’s 53-28 triumph over No. 6 Northeastern last Tuesday in

from page B1

mark during the dark period was a 5-15 mark in 2011. Perspective is everything.

Yet the Rebels lost to a legendary coach. East Bladen’s Patty Evers has a career mark of 630-138 in 27 seasons, with 10 trips to the region finals and four visits to the 1A finals.

Southwest Edgecombe’s Shelia Lang has 842 wins in 49 years. ND’s 10-game winning steak was snapped. The Rebels, which conquered Weldon and Gates County in the first two rounds, were 9-0 in January.

Ward, Smith shoot down Rebels

NeNe Ward scored 25 points and Leila Smith 18 as the Eagles stormed to leads of 22-10 and 40-21 at the first two breaks.

Playing closer to even-basketball in the second half did nothing to trim the margin significantly.

Brown and Rose hit buckets late in the second quarter to trim it to 31-20, but East Bladen scored nine of the next 10 points to lead 40-21 at halftime.

Yet the Rebels kept battling.

Higginbotham scooped in a pair of hoops and then drew a charge, but four consecutive layups off transition paced an 10-0 run to run the tally to 56 -31 with 32 seconds to play in the third quarter.

Brown had two straight hoops to start the fourth and Fulghum scored off an assist from Higginbotham. But North Duplin had stepped into quicksand and was losing battles all over the court.

Faison’s 17 markers and 11 boards paced the attack. Brown and Rose each hit for eight, as did East Bladen’s Ariel Cromartie and Niyah Wooten.

Higginbotham was limited to two points but had 10 rebounds and eight assists.

Fulghum, who had four points and four assist, got all

Farrior and Noble

East Duplin’s run to the fourth round and ECC titles came without the services of starters Zakoya Farrior and Ava Noble, who both suffered knee injuries in the second week of January and were forced to the sidelines.

Farrior, a junior, is the Panthers’ best outside shooter. Noble, a sophomore forward, is a heady player who can dribble, shoot, rebound and

Wondering how the fullstrength Panthers would have

fared against Seaforth will remain a mystery.

While both are solid players, the Eagles starting five are capable offensively and on the defensive side of the ball.

Where it might have made a difference is in the mental framework of the Panthers.

Yet Carr, a sixth man, played exceptionally, and guards Zoe Cavanaugh, a junior, and Hall, a senior, upped their respective games, while Andraia Scarborough and Anamarie Rodriguez showed potential as contributing reserves.

“This team will be remembered for playing through the loss of two girls and that resiliency is a testament to their will and fight,” Lane said. “What we did after losing those two girls was beat Southwest Onslow for the second and third time and Kinston to take the conference title.

“There are a lot of memories.”

Pickett, Kornegay and Carr graduate in June, but East Duplin will return a solid cast next season with Cave, Farrior, Noble, Cavanaugh as projected starters. The immediate need appears to be in the post area.

Nearly the same cast of players helped ED go 24-5 in 2024, a season that saw the Panthers fall to SWO three times. The Panthers’ ECC crown was the first since winning the league from 2018 to 2021.

ED had just one senior on its roster in 2022 (3-18) and in 2023 (11-14), the only two seasons under .500 during Lane’s tenure.

over her markers in the first quarter. But a trio of 3-pointers put East Bladen on top 20-10.

One final win on their home court

Faison had one of the better games of her career during the triumph over Northside, with 27 points and 21 rebounds during the road win in the third round.

Higginbotham had 12 points, six boards, eight assists and five steals.

Brown added eight and Abigeal Norris and Rose combined for eight more.

“That was the first road win we’ve had during this run,” Kornegay said. “It’s a nice feeling to overcome and win, especially against good competition. And I think this year our conference was as good as it’s been and among the leaders in the East.

“I don’t feel we’ve had a subpar performance since we played Neuse Charter (a 48-37 loss on Jan. 31). We were beaten by a really good team on Friday (Northside) and we had too many turnovers. You can’t do that this deep into the playoffs.”

Faison (16.1) led ND in scor-

ing behind Higginbotham (10.5), Fulghum (6.9), Rose (6.1) and Brown (4.2) Higginbotham, who will play softball next year at Wingate University, averaged 5.0 assists, 4.4 steals and made 30 3-pointers.

Faison, who crafted out 20 double-doubles, had 96 blocks (3.3 per game) and 405 rebounds (14.0). Higginbotham and Fulghum shift to softball attire. Ironically, it was No. 9 Northside-Pinetown that eliminated No. 1 North Duplin in the fourth round of the playoffs last spring before whipping Roxbury Community in the East Region finals. The Panthers fell to East Wilkes in the three-game 1A final series.

North Duplin and 2A rival East Duplin both reached the fourth round of the playoffs. The last time that happened was in 1999 when Wallace-Rose Hill boys 2A and the East Duplin girls captured the school’s first state crown. That Panther club was coached by the late Jerry Hunter, who will be inducted into the NCHSAA Hall of Fame on Aug. 16 in Chapel Hill.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Ja’Myah Pickett played to a high level in the final two playoff games of her career at ED.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Tateyawna Faison lead ND in points, rebounds and blocked shots.

obituaries

Leonard Steele Guy Jr.

Oct. 5, 1938 – March 3, 2025

Leonard Steele Guy Jr., better known as L. S. Guy Jr., passed away quite unexpectedly Monday night, March 3, at his home in Faison. He was 86. Guy was born and raised in Calypso; he attended the Calypso Baptist Church as a child and young adult. He graduated from North Duplin High School and went to East Carolina University for further education. He devoted his working career to education, beginning as a teacher and coach, followed by principalship, and lastly, as the superintendent of the Duplin County School System.

He had been a member of Faison Methodist Church for more than 65 years, had been a member of the Faison Improvement Group, had served on the Duplin County Agricultural Committee, and at Liberty Hall he was chairman of the board of directors.

Mr. Guy is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Ann Ellis Guy; three children, Nicki Nicole Guy Newman and husband, Randy, of Atlantic Beach, Ellis Steele Guy of Morehead City, and Candace Guy Outlaw and husband, Bill, of Mount Olive; grandchildren, Reece Outlaw, Gage Outlaw, Hunter Newman, Garrett Newman, Dalton Newman, and Cutler Newman; a brother, Harry Douglas Guy and wife, Charlotte, of Georgia; a sister, Doris Guy Avery of Gastonia; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard S. Guy and Mattie Barwick Guy; two brothers, Jack Guy and Don Guy; and a brother in law, Paul Avery.

The life of L. S. Guy Jr. was remembered in a service on Friday, March 7, at Faison Methodist Church and was officiated by the Rev. David Helbig. Following the service, the family received friends in the fellowship hall. Memorial gifts may be made to Faison Methodist Church, the L. S. Guy, Jr. Endowment Fund at Duplin County Board of Education, or the Outlaw Foundation.

Anna Sue Brown

Jan. 30, 1964 – March 3, 2025

Anna Sue Brown, age 61, died Monday, March 3, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington. She is survived by her husband, Dennis Ray Brown of Rose Hill; daughters, Georgiana Whaley of Richlands, Ashley Holmes and husband Josh of Potters Hill; grandchildren, Hannah and Hallie Whaley (father Brad), Taylor and Tyler Holmes, and many special friends and adopted babies. Memorial service was held Wednesday, March 5, followed by visitation at the Serenity Funeral Home in Beulaville.

Errol Morton Blanchard

Nov. 1, 1951 – March 2, 2025

Born in 1951, Errol Morton Blanchard was the son of OC Blanchard, JR and Jean Morton Blanchard, youngest brother of Charlie and Susan. He grew up working in the family business, B&R Wholesale, and attended Wallace Rose Hill High School, where he played football. His family would frequently spend time at Topsail Beach, where OC passed on his love of boating to Morton.

Growing up in Wallace, he met the love of his life, Patty, who he married for 52 years. He also met lifelong friend David Wells, who remained very close friends even though he lives in California.

After high school, Morton attended Holden Tech to learn the refrigeration trade. He quickly realized his talent for refrigeration and it would become his career.

After moving back to Rose Hill, he founded Blanchard Refrigeration Contractors, Inc. in 1976 and would go on to work with some of the biggest brands in grocery stores. Morton was widely known and respected in the refrigeration industry and was proud to serve a term on the North Carolina Refrigeration Board.

He and Patty had two sons, Joseph (Joe) and Benjamin (Ben). Joe now operates Blanchard Refrigeration and lives in Wallace with his wife, Lindsey, and three daughters, Emma, Britton, and Taylor. Ben works with trade software company ServiceTitan, and lives in Raleigh with his wife Lauren and daughter Elizabeth (Eliza).

While in Rose Hill, Morton was an active member of Rose Hill United Methodist church. You could find him singing in the choir, working on the church bells, keeping the oil fired furnace tuned up, and always checking on the building after a storm. He also served the Town Of Rose Hill as a town commissioner and a member of the chamber of commerce.

After retiring from the refrigeration business, Morton moved to Topsail Beach full time. He served over 10 years as a town commissioner and a short term as Mayor. He loved summers at Topsail as friends and family would come to visit and he could entertain and show them the best of Topsail Island. Morton will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His celebration of life will be 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, at the Historic Assembly Building on Topsail Island. Until we meet again ARRGGH!!

Melvin Coleman Middleton Sr.

June 23, 1943 –March 2, 2025

Melvin Coleman Middleton, Sr., 81, of Kenansville, passed away at his residence on March 2. The funeral service was held on March 10 at First Baptist Church of Kenansville, with public viewing one hour before the service. Interment at Middleton Cemetery in Kenansville.

Nellie Jo Guy

June 23, 1936 –March 6, 2025

Nellie Jo Outlaw Guy, a resident of the Calypso area, passed away Thursday evening, March 6, at the home of her daughter and son in law, at which she had been living for the last nine years. She was 88 years of age.

Guy had been employed in the bookkeeping department at Southern Bank and Trust Company in Mount Olive. She was a member of the Calypso Baptist Church. She was known for her cooking abilities and excellence in homemaking skills. She enjoyed flowers, growing and utilizing a vegetable garden, and she enjoyed the companionship of all animals, especially dogs and cats.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 9, at the Calypso Baptist Church, officiated by the Rev. Paul Langston and Dr. Gregory Day. Burial in the Calypso Cemetery followed. The family received friends at the church fellowship hall during the hour before the service. Flowers are welcome, or memorial gifts may be made to Calypso Baptist Church.

Mrs. Guy is survived by a daughter and son in law, Suzanne Guy Britt and J. Ralph Britt, Jr. of Mount Olive; a daughter in law, Abby Shealy Guy of Fuquay Varina, widow of son Donnie Guy; a brother and sister in law, Emmett and Linda Outlaw of Mount Olive; grandchildren, Matthew Guy and wife, Brianne, of Dayton, Ohio, Emily Guy Parker and husband, Matthew, of Hampstead, James R. Britt III and wife, Kasey, of Mount Olive, and Luke Donnell Britt and fiance, Claudia Riddle, both of Calypso; five great grandchildren, Pierce, Damian, and Fisher Guy, and Nolan and Ian Parker; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donnell Wilbur Guy; her son, Donnell W. “Donnie” Guy, Jr.; her parents, Leon A. and Beulah Mae Whitman Outlaw; a sister, Evelyn O. Sutton; a brother, William Earl Outlaw; and an infant sibling.

Special thanks are given to Mrs. Guy’s caregivers, Donna Kennedy and Tracy Winders, and to Gentiva Hospice, especially nurse Nikki Wolfe, for exemplary care, concern, and service.

Jan. 24, 1958 – March 3, 2025

Debra Lanier Cole, 67, passed away on Monday, March 3, in Onslow Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville. She is survived by her spouse, Ricky Cole of Chinquapin; son, Brandon Cole of Chinquapin; sister, Jean Dixon of Wallace; brother, Bobby Lanier (Annette), Chinquapin. Funeral service was held Thursday, March 6, followed by visitation at the Community Funeral Home Chapel in Beulaville. Graveside Service was held the following day on March 7.

James Lloyd Wilson

Dec. 9, 1948 – March 3, 2025

James Lloyd Wilson, 76, of Rose Hill, passed away peacefully on March 3. Born in Rose Hill on Dec. 9, 1948, James lived a life marked by service, kindness, and deep devotion to his faith, family, and friends.

A proud veteran, James served his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Saigon, Vietnam, as a Military Police officer. After his military service, he dedicated many years to his career at DuPont before retiring.

James found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, woodworking, and cooking— always eager to share his passions with others. He never met a stranger, treating everyone he encountered with dignity and respect. His generosity and warmth left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Mathis Wilson; his mother, Janet Jones Wilson; and his younger brother, Michael Wilson.

James is survived by his brothers, Richard Wilson, Joseph Wilson and wife Paula; his sons, Michael and wife Peggy, Charles and wife Beverly, Joshua, and Edwin; his grandchildren, Nicholas, Michael, Jefferson, Victor, Brennan, and Jaylin; and his great grandson, Wilder. He also leaves behind a large and loving extended family of cousins, nephews, and nieces, whom he cherished deeply.

James’s presence will be greatly missed, but his legacy of kindness, love, and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Visitation preceded services held at Padgett Funeral Home in Wallace on Tuesday, March 11, followed by burial at Devotional Garden in Warsaw.

Paula Mobley Brown

March 28, 1953 –March 4, 2025

Paula Mobley Brown, 71, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, at ECU Medical Center in Greenville. She is survived by spouse, Charles (CB) Brown of Beulaville; son, Christopher A. Brown of Winnipeg, Canada; daughter, Teresa Lefkowitz of Florida; sister, Helen Garner (Willie) of Leland; brothers, Terry Mobley (Sylvia) of Beulaville and Randall Mobley of Kenansville; four grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. The service was held Tuesday, March 11, at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Beulaville. The burial was private.

Dec. 25, 1955 –March 4, 2025

Bill Coltren, 69, passed away Tuesday, March 4, at his home on “Chinch Hill” across from Brock’s Chapel Church near Mount Olive. Formally named William George Coltren, he was better known as Bill Coltren to all.

Bill had been a carpenter with much experience in self employment. The later part of his working career was with Goshen Medical Center, Inc.

Bill is survived by a daughter, Kristy Coltren Cruse and husband Michael Cruse of Mount Olive; a son, William G. “Bill” Coltren Jr. of Mount Olive; a step daughter, Brianna Lancaster of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Melinda Davis and husband Lee, Kelsey Vasquez and friend Josh Sauls, and Michael Shane Tillman II; four great grandchildren, Bryson Lee Nunn, Zayden Cole Davis, Kaylee Nora Davis, and Jolie Emma Sauls; three brothers, Dallas Coltren and Larry Coltren, both of Mount Olive, and Randy Joe Foy and wife Shannon of Goldsboro; three sisters, Julia C. Phillips of Georgia, Toni Coltren of Mount Olive, and Tammy C. Lane and husband Jerry Lane of Mount Olive; and a number of nieces and nephews. Bill also leaves behind a dear friend, Sherman Best of Mount Olive.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Jo Loftin Coltren; his parents, George Lewis Coltren and Reva Hare Coltren; three sisters, Delphia C. Foy, Annie C. Gregory, and Janie C. Buford; and two brothers, the Rev. Lewis Arthur Coltren and Jimmy Coltren. In keeping with Bill’s wishes, his family will remember him and his life privately. For anyone wishing to honor Bill’s memory with a memorial gift, the family suggests the William G. “Bill” Coltren Scholarship.

Fountain

Feb. 3, 1936 – March 4, 2025

Ella Dail Fountain, 89, passed away on Tuesday, March 4 at her home. She is preceded in death by her spouse, Sherwood Jolly Fountain; sister, Agnes Ives; brothers, Norman and Norwood Dail. Survived by her sons, Jolly Fountain (Tina) of Georgia and Jeffrey Sherwood (Susan) of Tobaccoville; daughter, Beverly Smith (Gary) of Chinquapin; sister, Jenny Lanning (Don) of Florida; eight grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.

Funeral Service was held Sunday, March 9, with visitation one hour before the service at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Chinquapin. The interment was at Hosea Fountain Cemetery in Chinquapin.

Debra Lanier Cole

Bill Coltren

Ella Dail

June Darden Casteen

Jan. 24, 1965 – March 2, 2025

June Darden Casteen, age 60, of Wallace, passed from this life to her eternal rest on Sunday, March 2.

She was born on Jan. 24, 1965, in Duplin County and was the daughter of the late Edward L. and Jean Pope Darden. Also preceding her in death is her husband of 19 years, Joseph “Joe” Casteen; her son, Jacob Leamon Rivenbark; and her sister, Debbie Darden Garriss.

Left to cherish her memory is her grandson, Kaiden Rivenbark of Wallace; her brothers, Anthony Darden and wife Wanda, Rickie Darden and wife June, all of Rose Hill; June’s caregiver, Tessa Casteen of Wallace; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who loved June dearly.

June loved her family with all her heart, especially Kaiden. She was a simple woman who enjoyed the simple things in life, but most of all, she loved spending time with her family. Being a hard worker at Brown Builders in Rose Hill, June enjoyed meeting new people and developing new friendships over the years. She enjoyed painting projects, cross stitching, and was an amazing cook. June’s family will continue to love her in return and cherish all the memories they had with June. June will surely be missed but never forgotten.

A graveside service was held at Rose Hill Cemetery on Firetower Road on Wednesday, March 5.

UMO receives $100K grant for scholarships

Lettie

The

Pate Whitehead Foundation provides aid for women pursuing higher education

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — Let-

tie Pate Whitehead Foundation, Inc. recently granted the University of Mount Olive $100,000 to fund general undergraduate scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year.

“This generous grant from the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has been instrumental in helping our students achieve their academic and career goals,” said Kimberly Bry-

ant, associate vice president for Academic Affairs and Lettie Pate Whitehead advisor.

“The financial support provides much-needed relief for many of our scholars, allowing them to focus on their studies and future aspirations. We are incredibly grateful for the Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting our students.”

Twenty-five recipients hailing from North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida have been recognized as scholars of the program this academic year.

“UMO’s ongoing partnership with the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation continues to create valuable opportunities for female students, empowering

“We are incredibly grateful for the foundation’s continued commitment to supporting our students.”

Kimberly Bryant, academic affairs associate vice president

them to pursue higher education and meaningful careers,” said Twyla Wells, vice president for University Advancement. “With the increased grant amount for the upcoming academic year, even more stu-

dents will have the opportunity to benefit from this vital financial assistance.”

The scholarship has provided financial support to more than 105 female UMO students since 2018, representing various disciplines such as education, agribusiness, recreation and leisure studies, veterinary bioscience, psychology and nursing.

Chartered in 1946 by the youngest son of businesswoman and benefactor Lettie Pate Whitehead, the Foundation has, from its inception, awarded over $998 million in grants, continuing the philanthropic mission of its namesake to enable the education and success of deserving Christian women.

Duplin Journal

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE

Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholars at UMO, from left to right, Kim Bryant, Emily Sierra-Uriostegui, Brianna Cruz, Sabrina Kornegay, Sharon Crawford and Elizabeth Black pose for a photo.

Duplin Journal Vol. 10, Issue 3

Duplin Journal

the BRIEF this

week

Students raise vaping dangers awareness

Faison Town Board considers budget, renovations ahead of Farmers’ Parade

Former Duplin County superintendent dies at 86

Mount

Olive discusses infrastructure, finances

SPONSORED BY DUPLIN CALENDAR

Happening Monthly

Duplin leads NC with global STEM certification

NC 111 in Duplin to experience intermittent closures this spring

4 arrested in possession of handguns, drugs

THE CONVERSATION

VISUAL VOICES

A formidable president storms ahead

Next: The law schools

Kenansville man wins $1M prize in new scratch-off game

MARRIAGE LICENSES

Support the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department

JKHS guest speaker warns of vaping dangers

DUPLIN SPORTS

Higginbotham,

Faison

end four-year run in fourth round

Evers’ Eagles ‘White’-out Panthers in fourth round

Pate, Warren, Holmes, Quintanilla lead Rebels’ charge

SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Top half of Tigers’ lineup is nightmare for pitchers

Jenkins sees Panthers, Hawks,

Blue Devils as ECC front-runners

DUPLIN COUNTY – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR GRANT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES

Wildcat hurlers Goin, Andrews combine to no-hit Panthers

BASEBALL

SOCCER

Gabby Debman

Wallace-Rose Hill, girls’ soccer

obituaries

Leonard Steele Guy Jr.

Anna Sue Brown

Errol Morton Blanchard

Nellie Jo Guy

James Lloyd Wilson

June Darden Casteen

UMO receives $100K grant for scholarships

The

Pate Whitehead Foundation provides aid for women pursuing higher education

Duplin Journal