Wallace A section of Powers Road near Wallace-Pender Airport is closed for construction until Dec. 15. The closure runs from Willard Road to Wallace Airport Road/Old Mill Road as crews build a tie-in for the relocated Wallace Airport Road. Detours are in place via Willard Road and Wallace Airport Road. Local tra c will be able to access Powers Road from Willard Road. A second detour will begin Dec. 8 while crews connect the relocated Wallace Airport Road to the existing one. Both roads are expected to reopen Dec. 15, weather permitting. Drivers are advised to use caution and follow all posted signs near the work zone.
Tra c stop leads to multiple arrests
Beulaville
A tra c stop in Beulaville on Nov. 6 led to the seizure of drugs and the arrest of three men. According to law enforcement, a tra c stop on N. Brown Road led to a search that uncovered about 32 grams of crystal meth, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The driver, David Deering, and passengers Michael Dew and Joseph Thompson were arrested and taken to the Duplin County Jail. According to authorities, all three face drug tra cking and possession with intent to sell or deliver charges. Deering was also charged with driving while license revoked. Deering’s bond was set at $160,000, Dew’s at $150,000 and Thompson’s at $151,500.
Duplin County holiday closures
Duplin County Duplin County o ces will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 27-28, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Fall Food and Coat Drive underway
Wallace Royalty Funeral Home is hosting a Fall Food and Coat Drive now through Nov. 30 to support community members in need. Donations of nonperishable food, as well as new socks and new or gently used coats, hats, gloves and blankets are greatly appreciated. Drop - o times at 513 S. Norwood St. in Wallace, are Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Please do not leave items outside during nonbusiness hours.
Rose Hill’s streets come alive for Poultry Jubilee
Downtown Rose Hill buzzed with excitement as the annual Poultry Jubilee drew crowds for a two-day celebration of the town’s rich poultry heritage. Families enjoyed fried chicken cooked by the Rose Hill Fire Department in the World’s Largest Frying Pan, while others wandered among rows of vendor booths, food trucks and enjoyed carnival rides. Turn to B6 for more.
Uno cial Duplin County election results show tight races, new faces
Several towns saw races decided by just a handful of votes as Duplin logged a modest 19.7% voter turnout
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — Duplin
County voters turned out in modest numbers for last week’s municipal elections, with uno cial results showing a 19.7% turnout — 1,479 ballots cast out of 7,509 registered voters. Last Friday, the Duplin County Board of Elections (DCBOE) held its provisional ballot meeting, approving 16 of 22 provisional ballots submitted during the election.
Carrie Sullivan, DCBOE director, said updated results have been posted to the State Board of Elections dashboard and conrmed that no additional ballots remain to be counted. Since no military or overseas absentee ballots were requested, the current totals are likely to re ect the nal certi ed results.
“Where the votes lie now is pretty close to what we anticipate the nal totals to be,” Sullivan told Duplin Journal.
The Duplin County Board of Elections will meet Nov. 14 at
11 a.m. to o cially canvass and certify the results.
Among the tightest contests was Calypso’s mayoral race, where Mayor Pro Tem Marvin “Marty” Taylor edged out JoAnne Bowden-Wilson by three votes, 39 to 36. The town’s two-seat commissioner race was similarly close, with Larry Cashwell leading at 43 votes, followed by Rodney Lambert Jr. with 31 and Willie Wilcutt with 30. In Warsaw, a shift in leadership is on the horizon as newcomer Wesley Boykin secured 57.54% of the vote, leading with 206 votes, while longtime Mayor A.J. Connors received 151 votes.
The two commissioner seats also
drew strong competition. Cheryl Smith led with 192 votes, followed by incumbent Ebony Wills-Wells at 168. Al Searles, Sheree Shepard and Kiara Smith trailed with 113, 97, and 70 votes, respectively.
Voters in Wallace turned out in greater numbers than most towns. Mayor Jason Wells was reelected with 308 votes, while newcomer Glenn Price led the race for two council seats with 218 votes, followed by incumbents Jason Davis with 210 and Tasha Herring-Redd with 165. In Beulaville, residents opted for consistency, reelecting
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
that a Wallace boy was injured in an accident Nov. 6, after running onto U.S. Highway 117.
playing outside when his soccer ball rolled toward the roadway near the intersection of Jennifer Road and U.S. 117. As the child chased after the ball, the boy ran into the side of a passing vehicle.
condition, Crayton said. Police did not release the child’s name or specify which hospital he was taken to.
Journal
WALLACE — Last week, Wallace Police Chief Jimmy Crayton con rmed to Duplin
Crayton told Duplin Journal that the child, believed to be about 5 years old, had been
The child was transported to a hospital for treatment. At last check, he remained in stable
Airpark project completion delayed until early December
The board voted on contract adjustments and heard updates on new infrastructure
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
THE DUPLIN COUNTY Economic Development Board received the news at their regular meeting last Friday morning of yet another delay in the completion of the development work at the Airpark industrial center. Originally scheduled to be completed in July, it is now estimated the current project will not be nished until the rst or second week of December.
The project has been plagued with delays caused by several factors, including weather and a series of change order requests by contractors involved in the project. In addition, coordinating work between contractors within the same workspace has proved a challenge. Despite the delays, Duplin Economic Development Director Scotty $2.00
Crayton told Duplin Journal that the driver will not face any charges, explaining that there was nothing the driver could have done to avoid the accident.
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
The child was hit by vehicle while chasing a soccer ball
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Duplin County Economic Development Director Scotty Summerlin updated the board on progress at several
complexes.
Ena
Patsy Teachey
Advertising Representative
Loretta Carey
O ce Manager
CONTACT US
O ce Phone: 910 463-1240
To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
MOUNT OLIVE — It’s the biggest, and most expensive, problem plaguing the town of Mount Olive for years — water. Speci cally, stormwater, wastewater and the treatment of wastewater. The topic again dominated discussion during Monday’s meeting of the Mount Olive Board of Commissioners.
During one of three public hearings, engineers David Honeycutt and Cameron Long of McGill Associates, a Raleigh-based rm, presented key ndings from the town’s newly completed 186 -page Stormwater Master Plan Report.
The study identi ed three major areas in Mount Olive that experience signi cant ooding during rain events. Beyond property damage and safety concerns, the ooding may also be contributing to in ltration into the town’s wastewater system, which remains under a state-imposed moratorium due to repeated over ows into state waters. The moratorium prohibits any additional wastewater ow, halting both residential and commercial development until the town achieves compliance. According to the report, bringing stormwater issues under control could be a crucial step toward resolving the wastewater treatment plant’s de ciencies. The report recommends major improvements in three ood-prone areas — near Piggly Wiggly, the Mount Olive Family Medical Center and the 100 block of North Church Street — with estimated construction
costs exceeding $34 million.
Commissioners expressed frustration that previous studies dating back to 2006 had already identi ed several problem areas, yet no major repair work has ever been completed.
Commissioner Delreese Simmons questioned why earlier recommendations for the Maple Street area were never acted upon, while Commissioner Danny Keel noted that the town has spent substantial sums on studies over the years without seeing tangible results.
That frustration carried into later discussions, when the board was asked to both approve the new Stormwater Master Plan presented by McGill and authorize $4.7 million in grant-funded partial improvements to the wastewater treatment plant, to be completed by Bowen Engineering. The board ultimately voted to table both measures until the three newly elected commissioners take o ce in January.
Although Interim Town Manager Glenn Holland was absent due to illness, his written report read aloud by Town Clerk Sherry Davis revealed that Mount Olive self-reported a moratorium violation to the state in July. The report also con rmed that the town had missed two deadlines in making required repairs to specific parts of the wastewater collection and treatment system, resulting in nes of $100 per day for ve days, escalating to $500 per day for continued noncompliance.
In addition, the town received a notice of violation for exceeding allowable weekly averages of ammonia nitrogen in treated wastewater.
Mayor Jerome Newton stat-
ed the issue was traced to illegal dumping by a company in Calypso, which discharges into Mount Olive’s wastewater system.
In other business
In a separate public hearing, the board considered a request from Fun House Café to extend operational hours for electronic gaming businesses to 24 hours daily. Current town regulations limit gaming operations to Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to midnight, and Sundays, 10 a.m. to midnight.
Several residents spoke out against approving the request citing concerns that in addition to the three known gaming operations in town, several others were operating in the shadows and in violation of town ordinances. Commissioner Tommy Brown, a seasoned law enforcement ocer, also spoke out against the request.
“From my experience, these businesses attract a certain criminal element,” Brown said. The board voted to maintain the current hour restrictions on electronic gaming operations in town.
Prior to the public hearings, Town Attorney Carroll Turner made a rare request to speak during the public comment period. Turner said he made the request as a citizen and not in his o cial capacity as the town’s attorney. Turner praised the town’s police and re departments for quickly responding when his sta reported a possible re at his o ce. When emergency crews arrived, they discovered the smoke was coming from an unvented stove in the next-door building, which also housed an illegal gaming operation and alcohol.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in
Nov. 15
Holiday Vendor Market
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join Chestnutt Farms for the fourth annual Holiday Vendor Market. Enjoy delicious food, unique vendors, and a festive community atmosphere.
428 S. N.C. 11 and 903, Kenansville
Nov.
22
Christmas at Twilight 4-8 p.m.
Kick o the holiday season with a magical small-town celebration in historic downtown Wallace. Stroll through festive streets lled with carolers, craft vendors and local shopping, enjoy delicious food, and experience the Christmas Tree Lighting. Santa Claus will be making a special visit too. Bring the whole family to the Wallace Train Depot for an enchanting evening lled with holiday cheer.
206 Southwest Railroad St., Wallace
Nov. 25
Annual Bake Sale 9 a.m.
Duplin County DSS will hold its annual bake sale at the Duplin County Courthouse. Visitors can enjoy a delicious selection of cookies, cakes, and biscuits while supporting a great cause.
112 Duplin St., Kenansville
Nov. 26
Thanksgiving Resource & Food Box Event
Noon
Families and community members in need are invited to the Thanksgiving Resource & Food Box Event to help them celebrate the holiday season. This rstcome, rst-serve drive-thru will provide food boxes and
Duplin County.
Beulaville board hears community concerns
The board addressed ditch work, public safety incidents and infrastructure improvements
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke Duplin Journal
BEULAVILLE — Residents and town o cials gathered at the Beulaville Town Board meeting on Nov. 3 to discuss ongoing town projects and community concerns.
An issue raised during public comments involved work on a ditch behind a local resident’s home. Marie Evans expressed concern that recent work, which included tree removal and widening of the ditch, has negatively impacted her property’s appearance and value.
Evans’ sisters, Dale and Ver-
nia, echoed her concerns, citing potential erosion and a loss of privacy, as the ditch sits just a few feet from their 79-year-old sister’s home. Dale described the open ditch as “an ugly sight” and urged the board to explore possible solutions.
Evans, the owner of the house, said she was told that she had to sign some forms, and she was led to believe the town was going to cover the ditch. “I would never have consented to my property being damaged and devalued the way it is now,” Evans said. Neighbor Steve Wallace said he did not recall previous issues with the
ditch and expressed concern that recent work may have lowered property values.
The board said it would review the matter further.
Public Works Director Ricky Raynor provided an update on the town’s stormwater project, noting that paving is expected to be completed by the end of the week, with the overall project nished within approximately a week and a half.
Interim Town Manager Lori Williams reported on efforts to upgrade communication systems for town wells due to unreliable connections with Brightspeed. The board approved the installation of a wireless alarm system for the wells.
Historic banners, park safety highlight Faison’s meeting
club’s charitable work, including assistance during sickness and natural disasters, and encouraged the board to support membership growth.
versary — including a Ferris wheel, fun house and swings — was tabled pending deposit and rain-day contingency clari cation.
Williams also discussed bids for a town-owned property and plans to replace banners and lights for year-round use. The board decided to use existing banners for the upcoming Christmas season and order new hardware and banners for next year.
Police Chief Jamie Rogers reported a busy October for the department, highlighting several major cases:
• A stolen vehicle recovered in South Carolina, with the suspect apprehended.
• A robbery involving an 85-year-old man resulting in ve suspects being charged, including two from Georgia.
• A breaking-and-entering suspect captured after eeing.
• Over 240 pounds of pre -
scription pills collected and o the streets.
Code Enforcement sta praised residents for maintaining properties and staying current on payments. Williams also provided updates on town sales reports, the upcoming Christmas Parade, and community events including Chili with the Chief and Toys for Tots. She announced that the town’s nance position has been lled internally.
After serving eight years as interim, Williams requested the word “interim” be removed from her title. The board approved the change, and Mayor Hutch Jones apologized for not making the update sooner, and the meeting adjourned shortly after the approval.
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
FAISON — From historic banners to community service, the Faison Town Board tackled a wide range of local priorities at its Nov. 5 meeting, highlighting e orts to celebrate the town’s 250th anniversary and ensure safety in public parks.
Jerry Williams of the Lions Club presented a ag to Mayor Billy Ward and discussed the organization’s history and service. The club is now striving to grow in Faison.
“Small towns have legacies of great people,” said Williams. “The club was set to close, but we fought hard to keep it open. The club started in 1939 with 12 members. If the club dies, it will take 20 members to start it up.”
Williams highlighted the
The Faison Improvement Group (F.I.G.) shared plans for banners to celebrate the town’s 250th anniversary. The project includes replacing 20 cloth banners with 30-by-60 vinyl banners honoring local businesses, historical sites and notable residents. Banners will be installed near corresponding locations and serve as murals throughout town. Designs will also be used to make shirts and other merchandise for sale during anniversary events next year. The board approved welcome banners at town entrances and historical banners throughout Faison.
Ward noted recreation is in a downtime period until basketball begins in January. The board approved longevity pay increases. Discussion of amusement rides for the 250th anni-
The board addressed an incident where two juveniles were skating on the tennis courts despite signs posted prohibiting skating and refused to leave until the police were called. The board voted to ban both individuals from the park until December 2026.
Commissioner Carolyn Kenyon noted the tennis courts require maintenance and repair; Ward will coordinate with Jimmy Tyndall, who was absent from the meeting.
Ward announced that an opioid meeting will take place in Kenansville on Nov. 18.
Jasmine Banes presented her Girl Scouts Gold Award project to create a designated helicopter landing zone for EMS ights. The board approved supporting the project once a location is determined.
Kenansville board welcomes new commissioner
The board approved funding for police body cameras and adopted a new event permit policy
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — Alex Padgett was sworn in as a new member of the Kenansville Board of Commissioners at the board’s meeting on Nov. 4. Padgett lls the seat previously held by Nelson Baker, who died in April. He was sworn in by Kenansville Town Clerk Madison Jones, with his family attending the ceremony.
Immediately after the swearing in ceremony, Padgett joined the board in taking up town business, which included reappointing Je rey Whitehead to another term as a representative on the ABC Board.
During Town Manager Anna West’s report, the board approved her request for a budget amendment to allocate $8,200 from the general fund for the recent purchase of body cameras for the Kenansville Police Department.
West advised the board that the town’s annual audit, required by the state, is progressing, but a request by the auditors for information on town employee vacation and comp time needed to be prepared. West said she was still con dent the audit could be completed by Dec. 1.
During department reports, Police Chief Jackie Benton informed the board that a request had been made for a permit to
hold a “No Kings Rally” in January at the courthouse. Benton presented a proposed permit request form for the board to adopt as part of town policy. The board approved the form, which had been created by the town clerk based on similar permits other communities in the state had adopted. The permit request for the rally will be taken up at a later meeting after the group completes the new form. Benton noted the group would also need a permit from Duplin County to hold the event on courthouse grounds. Benton also advised the board of road closures and preparations for upcoming holiday events. The Kenansville Christmas Parade, co-sponsored by the town and the Kenansville Chamber of Commerce, will take place Nov. 29 at 11 a.m. The town’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held Sunday, Nov. 30, from 5-8 p.m.
Kenansville Parks and Recreation Director Courtney Brown shared with the board that progress was being made in preparing the site at Kenan Park for the new $500,000 playground project. Brown said deliveries for playground equipment are expected to begin arriving shortly after the rst of the year. Funding for the project comes from grants and private gifts.
In other reports, Garry Benson, the town public works director, informed the board that the state has noti ed him of an upcoming inspection of the town’s wastewater treatment plant.
The board banned twp juveniles from the town’s tennis courts
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Jerry Williams of the Lions Club, left, presents a ag to Mayor Billy Ward highlighting the organization’s long history of community service and e orts to grow in Faison.
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Alex Padgett, left, is sworn in by Kenansville Town Clerk Madison Jones, right, to serve on the Kenansville Board of Commissioners. Padgett’s wife, Marley, held the Bible for the ceremony.
THE CONVERSATION
Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
Federal and state governments are rooting out DEI & ESG
It’s all a scheme to package the woke Left’s agenda and to fundamentally change America for the worse.
FOLLOWING PRESIDENT Donald
Trump’s executive orders to root out and eliminate ESG and DEI policies from government agencies and departments, it might be easy to think the war against these destructive ideas is won.
Radical leftists are losing voter support for ESG and DEI at the ballot box, in legislative chambers around the country and in public opinion. But sadly, any attempt to declare victory regarding the end of ESG or DEI would be wrong. Ultra-left activists and entrenched government bureaucrats who support these polices are working overtime to rename ESG and DEI rules so they attract less attention but are still enforced.
ESG (environmental, social and governance) and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) sound innocent, and that’s the point. Nestled within these two seemingly innocuous acronyms (who could be against inclusion?) are radical, insidious and anti-American agendas.
Going through the letters “ESG,” the realities become apparent. “Environmental” really means climate alarmism and eliminating the safest, most a ordable and most reliable energy sources in favor of solar and wind, which are as unreliable as they are una ordable. “Social” is where DEI lives with racial quotas for hiring, discriminating based on skin color and the worst elements of gender ideology. And “governance” underpins it all by manipulating our free enterprise system to take control of companies and turn them into tools for the woke.
It’s all a scheme to package the woke left’s agenda and to fundamentally change America for the worse, making it unrecognizable. It is moving us from a meritocracy that values hard work
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
and rewards success to a kakistocracy. Particularly insidious is that this allows the left to implement the worst elements of its agenda without winning elections, without passing laws in Congress or state legislatures, and without any of us having a say in our nation’s future. There is, however, positive momentum. Many state policymakers have been sounding the alarm for years, but this year the movement against ESG and DEI achieved critical mass. Trump has issued three executive orders targeting DEI (Executive Order 14151, Executive Order 14173, and Executive Order 14168) and two targeting ESG (Executive Order 14154 and Executive Order 14259).
These orders terminated all DEI positions in the federal government, banned contractors from using it in hiring, directed the Department of Justice to investigate civil rights violations related to its use in the private sector, directed the U.S. attorney general to block enforcement of state and local ESG laws, and rescinded all Biden ESG and DEI executive orders.
The Trump administration has taken unprecedented steps to weed out DEI and ESG from both the public and private sectors, ending programs and cutting funding. The Harts eldJackson Atlanta International Airport lost more than $37 million in grants when it refused to end DEI. The Trump administration also halted $18 billion in funding for infrastructure projects in New York City due to concerns about the city’s DEI policies. State governments have also acted. So far, 22 states have banned or restricted DEI and ESG. Earlier this year, nancial o cers from 21 states sent a warning letter to the nation’s largest banks, urging them to end woke investing
policies. Texas enacted a parental bill of rights that ends DEI and bans instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in public K-12 schools. In Indiana, State Attorney General Todd Rokita moved to block state contracts with law rms that have DEI initiatives following an executive order from Gov. Mike Braun.
Before stepping down in August to become a deputy director of the FBI, former Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey sued IBM and Starbucks for their discriminatory DEI policies and launched an investigation into two foreign-owned proxy advisory rms for promoting ESG.
Despite all this progress, victory celebrations would be premature. Sal Nuzzo, executive director of Consumers Defense, which works to protect American consumers from ESG and woke companies, warns:
“ESG isn’t dead, it’s simply rebranding. The radicals on the Left are publicly proclaiming that they have seen the light while at the same time simply changing the terms to things like ‘sustainability’ and ‘transparency’ in the hopes of waiting out the current momentum. We forget this to our detriment.” ESG and DEI aren’t just bad ideas — they are destructive forces that must be eradicated. They harm our economy, divide our country, and increasingly violate state and federal laws. Those who want to change the very fabric of America will not simply concede and surrender. We all must remain vigilant to recognize the next iterations of ESG and DEI and continue to root them out.
Harry Roth is director of outreach for Save Our States. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.
North Carolina public education
The average North Carolina teacher is $13,738 less than the national average of $72,030.
THE DOWNFALL OF North Carolina public education began at least 20 years ago with the passage of the North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL).
Let’s take a quick look back. In 2005, the NCEL was passed under Democratic leadership, with Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue casting the tie vote while two Republican legislators were absent. The understanding was that the lottery funds would supplement the general fund allocation to the public schools, but it is the consensus that the lottery funds replaced the educational funds in the general budget. The initial plan was to allocate 35% of the lottery funds to education. However, that plan was scrapped in 2007 and “changed to a guideline, removing legislation that safeguarded lottery funds strictly for educational purposes.” The allocation of lottery funds to public education since 2007 has averaged 20%-plus. In 2023-2024, the lottery brought in $5.38 billion in sales and allocated 20.3% to education, $1.09 billion, but 35% would have been $1.88 billion, a
di erence of an additional $790 million to public education. The balance of the lottery revenue, 79.7%, was spent on lottery prizes, administrative costs and retailer commissions. In 2024, the average lottery salary was $83,293, and the highest salary was $281,460. Can you even believe these salaries compared to the average North Carolina teacher salary of $58,292 for year 2024 for teachers who have taught from one to 30plus years? The average North Carolina teacher is $13,738 less than the national average of $72,030. North Carolina’s average teacher pay dropped to 43rd in the nation. I think that the lottery operational cost must be reduced to 65% and 35% be reinstated for education and teacher pay. The original sales pitch for the NCEL was to fund public education. Our legislature continues to reduce teacher pay by removing longevity pay (2014-15), removing the master’s degree pay for new hires (2014-15), failing to fully fund health insurance for public school personnel, and removing health insurance bene ts following retirement
for individuals hired after Jan. 1, 2001. NCEL funds have also been used to fund the State Department of Public Instruction, the State Board of Education, a shortfall in Medicaid and the North Carolina Scholarship Program (NCSP), which was initiated by the legislature in 2013 to provide families with limited nances to attend private schools. Now the NCSP funds are available to families with no nancial restrictions. To date, approximately $500 million has been sent to private schools for the NCSP. It is estimated that by 2032-33, $7 billion will be sent to private schools while North Carolina Public Schools serve 84% of the students and are the lowestfunded public schools in the nation. Unbelievable. One more fact, the Republican legislature has been in power for several years and still cannot pass a budget by July 1 of each year. Unbelievable.
Alice Smith Scott Pink Hill, North Carolina
COLUMN | HARRY ROTH
Duplin County Schools begins new chapter with Tyndall at helm
Nearly $6.4 million in fund balance provides the foundation for student-focused initiatives
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting Nov. 6.
Crystal Strickland from the Clerk of Courts administered the oath of o ce to Daren Tyndall, the new district superintendent. Principals from across the county attended to witness the swearing in. Board members praised Tyndall, calling the transition “the easiest” due to his longstanding
involvement with the district.
“I’m humbled and honored for this opportunity,” Tyndall said during his remarks. “I am thankful for all of you and for all that you do every day for children and for what Dr. Obasohan laid the foundation for.”
Following the swearing in, the CPA rm Anderson, Smith, and Wike presented the 2025-26 audit. The auditors con rmed that DCPS remains in a strong nancial position despite statewide challenges in managing post-COVID funds.
The district currently maintains nearly $6.4 million in its fund balance, providing a solid foundation for Tyndall and the board to continue investing in student success. Board Chairman Brent Davis led a
round of applause to the Finance Department for its diligent work.
The board then approved a consent agenda including contract services, fundraiser requests and eld trips across the county. A closed executive session addressed topics including emergency responses and school safety improvement plans. Upon returning, the board approved personnel recommendations and School Improvement Plans presented by principals throughout Duplin County.
The board acknowledged two graduate research projects focused on teacher retention and attrition, as well as a revised drone policy. The meeting was subsequently adjourned.
AgPrime invests in farmers growth
The grant program o ers up to $10K to support innovative,
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
MOUNT OLIVE — The University of Mount Olive’s Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center and the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission recently announced that the application period for the 2026 AgPrime Cost-Share Grant Program is now open through Dec. 15.
The AgPrime program provides up to $10,000 in funding for farmers and agribusiness
owners to develop creative, income-generating projects that strengthen farms and rural communities. Duplin County is among 33 counties across central and eastern North Carolina eligible to participate in the program.
Edward Olive, director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center, said the program is designed to help strengthen rural economies that have been affected by changes in the tobacco industry.
“We are excited to be part of helping those farms and agribusinesses attain capital to reach the next level within their business plan,” he said. AgPrime funding supports
projects that help producers explore new markets, adopt innovative practices, and diversify operations. Priority is given to applicants who earn at least 50% of their personal income from farming or agribusiness, as well as to current or former tobacco growers and quota holders.
“The success of the AgPrime program depends on the innovative ideas for replicable projects that will help farmers expand and diversify their enterprise with the continued transition of tobacco production,” Olive said.
For assistance with applications, call 252-526-1587 or 910290-1002.
Veteran educator returns to Duplin
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
KENANSVILLE — Duplin County Schools is welcoming back a familiar face to its leadership team. Last week the Board of Education announced the board approved Superintendent Daren Tyndall’s recommendation to appoint Felicia Brown as assistant superintendent for human resources.
Brown, a longtime educator and leader, brings nearly three decades of experience in public education, including a decade of service in Duplin County Schools. She most recently served as director of human resources for Wayne County Public Schools, where she led strategic initiatives to support recruitment, retention and professional development.
According to Duplin County Schools o cials, before her tenure in Wayne County, Brown held multiple leadership positions within Duplin County Schools from 2007 to 2017, including principal, executive director of human resources, chief o cer, and assistant superintendent for human resources and leadership de-
Felicia Brown
velopment. Her leadership at Rose Hill-Magnolia Elementary School and Duplin Early College High School left a lasting mark on both students and sta .
“Brown is an experienced leader who understands our district’s values and dedication to serving students, sta , and families,” said Superintendent Daren Tyndall. “We are thrilled to welcome her back to Duplin County Schools. Her deep understanding of our culture, combined with her proven expertise in human resources, will be invaluable as we continue to grow and strengthen our district team.” Brown will assume her new role following her transition from Wayne County Public Schools.
MARRIAGE LICENSES
Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 31 marriage licenses for the month ending on Oct. 31, 2025.
• Michael Jerome Butler, Wallace, and Joanna Elizabeth Whitfield, Wallace;
• Matthew Jefferson Bryan, Clayton, and Jayde Christine Collins, Clayton;
• Daniel Velazquez Nucamendi, South Carolina, and Maria Teresa De Paz Arriola, Dudley;
• Errol Josue Varela, Rose Hill, and Olivia Hope Rouse, Rose Hill;
• William Nash Cruse, Albertson, and Michaela Jade Frederick, Albertson; Abigail Hailey King, Beulaville, and Gavin Ellis Lee, Warsaw;
• Joseph Clinton Bennetts, Wallace, and Meghan Patricia Hood, Wallace;
• Sallie Jo Grant, Albertson, and Randy Johnson Jr, Albertson;
• Sarah Elizabeth Frank, Albertson, and Stephen Rey Gomez, Albertson;
Tony Lee Bryant, Kenansville, and Vickie Teresa Goodman, Kenansville;
James Arthur English, Wallace;
• Baillie Storm Alphin, Mount Olive, Jamison Ray Outlaw, Mount Olive;
• Jeremy Lee Rouse, Mount Olive, and Emilee Dawn Mercer, Mount Olive; Hanna Mackaelyn Arendt, Spring Lake, and Leo Thomas Bavaro, Spring Lake;
• Amie Roslin Jacobs, Wallace, and Devin Robert Williamson, Wallace;
• Martin Gonzales Leon, Pink Hill, Maria Borja Sanchez, Pink Hill;
• Roberto Carlos Ecalera Quinones, La Grange, and Michelle Bernadette Santiago Torres, La Grange;
• Michael Jermaine Best, Rose Hill, and Youngville Kaye Simpson, Burgaw;
• Lillian Rosanna Bostic, Beulaville, and Joseph Michael Baron, Kinston; Joseph Owen Perks, Connecticutt, and Haylie Noel Moore, Connecticutt;
• Cesar Augusto Trejo Navarro, Rose Hill, and Yeni Larissa Matute Rose Hill;
• Robert Aaron Makenzie, Rose Hill, and Marrionna Mischelle Matthews, Rose Hill;
• Colby Lee Bass, Kenansville, and Savannah Nicole Farabee, Kenansville;
• Guy Colon Griffin Iii, Pink Hill, and Pamela Jones Lewis Pink Hill;
• Lance Michael Davis, Mount Olive, and Bailey Grace Sutton Mount Olive;
• Zachary Lee Johnson, Pink Hill, and Kristen Carolyn Tyndall, Pink Hill; Anna Louise Casteen, Wallace, and Skylar
• Chance Takota Blue, Beulaville, andsydney Marie Lanier, Chinquapin; Adam Lee O’connell, Wallace, and Christopher Cory Pair, Wallace;
• Caitlyn Rae Moffett, Wallace, and Steven Allen Jacobs Jr., Wallace;
• Seergio Jesus Cruz Jr., Mount Olive, and Stephanie Flores Perez, Albertson; Jose Ramon Aguinaga Cruz, Magnolia, and Katie Hernandez Palacios, Magnolia.
REBECCA
Daren Tyndall, left, is sworn in as the new Duplin County Schools Superintendent by Crystal Strickland of the Clerk of Courts during the Nov. 5 Board of Education meeting.
Felicia Brown returns to DCS as assistant superintendent for HR
Pickles, Pigs & Swigs returns to Mount Olive
Downtown Mount Olive came alive with the sounds of music, good food, fun and vendors during the annual Pickles, Pigs & Swigs held on Saturday.
Visitors from the event came from as far away as at least the northeastern part of the country. Duplin Journal spoke with a couple from New Hamshire who decided to attend the event while visiting family in the area.
A few vendors said attendance this year appeared to be down slightly, but it didn’t a ect the spirit of the people attending the event.
Here are some of the sights from Saturday’s activities.
AIRPARK from page A1
Summerlin told the board he is con dent things are nally getting close to completion.
“Things are really starting to speed up now,” Summerlin told the board before they voted to accept an additional contract change request for an additional 26 days to complete some of the work.
The Airpark project includes adding new roadways and other infrastructure, as well as water and sewer lines, and electrical service. Construction is also underway on a new 50,000-square-foot shell building. Projects in the near future include an additional shell building and the construction of several short-term rental homes within the Airpark. The board voted to proceed with a request for proposals to clear the land for the rental units and they agreed to explore using pre-
ELECTION from page A1
all incumbents. Mayor Michael “Hutch” Jones secured another term with 103 votes, while commissioners Delmas Highsmith and Gene Wickline held their seats with 98 and 89 votes, respectively.
Faison voters also favored familiar faces. Mayor Billy Ward was reelected with 97 votes, and the race for three commissioner seats shows Ken Avent Jr. on the lead with 85 votes, San-
fab homes in building the units. The board also heard from an engineer involved in the Airpark project that in ow and in ltration issues had been discovered in the new sewage system being
dy McCarty follows with 82 and Juan Carlos Quintanilla with 80. Joanie Babcock and Alane Brewer Floyd trailed with 24 and 21 votes.
Greenevers also saw all incumbents return for the three commissioner seats, with Gregory Carr and Roszena Devione-Bivens each earning 48 votes and Timothy Murphy receiving 36.
Kenansville also saw steady support for its current leadership. Mayor Stephen William-
constructed at the Airpark.
“I’m counting on you to hold their feet to the re,” Economic Development Board Chairman Charley Farrior told the engineer, referring to the engineer
son Jr. was reelected with 94 votes, while Linda Tyson led the commissioner race with 69 votes. The town recorded 86 total write-ins, with Michael Maddox receiving 52, James Costin 21 and Brandon Hobbs 13.
Magnolia’s three-commissioner seat race shows incumbent Perry J. Raines kept his seat with 55 votes, followed by incumbent Jeanine Cavenaugh with 44 and write-in candidate Janice Wilson capturing
encouraging the contractor involved in the sewer project to resolve the issues quickly.
Summerlin had more positive news for the board regarding two other projects. Construction on the new 50,000 -square-foot shell building in the SouthPark Industrial Center near Wallace was ahead of schedule. He also said construction of the new N.C. Forest Service Region One Headquarters is scheduled to begin in early December. The building is being constructed across from two large hangars the N.C. Forest Service already occupies at the Duplin County Airport. The Region One headquarters is being moved from Kinston to Duplin County.
In other business involving construction at the airport, the board approved spending $1,500 to improve an asphalt patch at a driveway to an existing hangar that had to be cut during the new construction.
37 out of the 51 write-in votes cast. Michael Glenn Chestnutt trailed behind with 23 votes.
In Rose Hill, Mayor Davy Buckner was comfortably reelected with 140 votes. For the two commissioner seats, Perry Tully leads with 94 votes, followed by Tashau Mathis with 69 and Randy Barrios with 64.
Newcomer Danny Sutton and incumbent Patrick Williams tied at 38 votes each in Teachey’s commissioner race for two seats, leaving Ethylen
Summerlin also updated the board on plans to build new signage on the Airpark property that will be located on the northeast corner of Airport Road and Airpark Drive. Summerlin is currently seeking bids for the sign that should be completed in February or March of next year. The signage is being funded by a grant from North Carolina’s Southeast Partnership, a public-private economic development organization.
The board also approved spending $25,500 to perform routine annual maintenance on the rail spur into Westpark in Warsaw.
“The rail folks actually did the inspection and prompted us it was time to take on this work,” Summerlin told the board.
The contract with Shanes Railwork, Inc. calls for the replacement of 100 cross ties and other maintenance work on the spur.
Carlton Powell behind with 25 votes.
Duplin County’s results remain uno cial until the Board of Elections meets to complete its canvass and con rm the winners.
“There are a few things that we are looking at right now, like deaths and felony convictions, to make sure that no one showed up on those lists in the last week of election that would have been ineligible to vote,” Sullivan told Duplin Journal.
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Despite delays, progress is happening in the Airpark Industrial Complex at Duplin County Airport. The frame is going up on the rst of two 50,000-square-foot shell buildings being constructed on the property.
Above, Zack Lee, of Mount Olive, and his band perform on the center stage at the annual Pickles, Pigs & Swigs event last Saturday. Left, the downtown park in Mount Olive became a popular place to hang out, enjoy food and beverage, as well as play a few games during the annual Pickles, Pigs & Swigs event.
Above, the North Carolina Pickle Festival had a tent set up during Pickles, Pigs & Swigs in downtown Mount Olive on Saturday to sell T-shirts and promote the annual event. Right, who says ax throwing is not safe for kids? This version, an in atable unit with in atable axes, was very popular with kids during Pickles, Pigs & Swigs.
PHOTOS BY MARK BRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
DUPLIN SPORTS
Lackluster ’Dawgs overcome Rams behind 5 TDs from Lamb
Greene Central gave WRH all it wanted before falling 36-35 in rst round of 3A playo s
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Jamarae Lamb provided seven answers last Friday during a 37-36 win over Greene Central in the rst round of the 3A playo s at the Jack Holley Football Complex.
Lamb scored ve times and added a pair of 2-point conversions while running the ball 37 times for 239 yards.
He got help from running back Jamari Carr, who had his most productive game of the season with 90 yards on 12 carries.
Yet WRH (5-4) played lackluster, falling behind twice in the rst half and letting Greene Central (5-6) come to within a point twice in the second half.
The No. 13 Bulldogs travel to No. 1 James Kenan on Friday for a rematch against the Tigers, who they beat 28-21 on Halloween for the Swine Valley Conference title.
“We played our absolutely worst game defensively and didn’t execute,” said WRH head coach Kevin Motsinger. “The o ensive line was not that bad since Pender. We made so many mental mistakes.
“On the positive side, it was the rst team we played all year that wasn’t scared of us, and they found out we weren’t scared of them. But we were impersonating the walking dead.”
WRH took the lead for good early in the fourth quarter when Lamb got 30 yards o a pass from Matthew Wells, had runs of 14 and six yards and scored from the 2 on the seventh play of the drive. Lamb’s untouched walk into the end zone for the 2-point conversion forged a two -score lead of 29-20.
But on the rst snap following the kicko , Green Central scored on a 48-yard pass reception from Joshua Cetnar (16-19 for 229 yards, 3 TDs).
Dejuan Cobb (14-100) ran in the two-point conversion, and WRH’s lead was cut to 29-28.
Lamb then toted the pig on nine of the next 11 plays as the Bulldogs went 61 yards. Lamb got both the touchdown and conversion
JK and WRH clash for the second time in three weeks, while ED and ND burn inferior foes
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
WARSAW — A week between rivalry games causes an awful lot of angst as coaches, players and fans have yet to stop talking about a big game when another is happening in a week.
Welcome to the pigskin worlds of James Kenan and Wallace-Rose Hill, which will clash on Bill Taylor Field on Friday in the second round of the 3A playo s.
Yet these two familiar foes come into the playo s on di erent levels.
The Tigers, who slipped to a 28-21 win over their rival on Halloween, is 9-1 and the No. 1 seed in the East. JK returns many players from its 2024 squad, which advanced to the fourth round before falling to Northeastern.
The Bulldogs (6-5) are the 16th seed, yet as everyone in Duplin County knows, never discount WRH, which last season won its 600th football game. James Kenan is within a
The N.C. Volleyball Coaches Association honored the senior trio
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Three volleyball players who led Wallace-Rose Hill to consecutive conference championships and a four-year mark of 77-18 were named to the North Carolina Volleyball Coaches Association’s 3A allstate team.
Exiting with the highest of honors following Sunday’s announcement are Angelina Cavallo, Jansley Page and Mattie Gavin.
No player from East Duplin
(4A), North Duplin (2A) or James Kenan (3A) made the all-state cut in their respective classi cation. WRH went 21-5 this fall, which included a win over powerhouse Midway to snap the Raiders’ 53-match conference winning streak.
Midway’s Kaedyn Moran, Gracyn Hall and Ella Clark were also on the rst team, as were Ayden-Grifton’s Ashlynn Overby and Lainey Evans.
The Chargers beat the Raiders in the East Region nal and then took the state title by stumping Pine Lake Prep.
Eighteen players were selected for the all-state squad.
Cavallaro and Page were twin scoring towers.
Cavallaro’s 435 kills were sec-
ond-most in 3A and 18th among all classi cations.
Page’s 433 spikes were fourth in 3A and 19th among all players in the state. Her 53 aces were 43rd in 3A and 66 blocks were 18th.
Page added 156 digs and 56 as-
sists to a resume she will take to Fayetteville Tech next fall.
Cavallaro, who has yet to decide on a college choice, had 46 aces and 129 digs.
Gavin, the heart of the middle and back line for WRH, had 775 kills, which was fourth high-
est in 3A and 17th statewide. She added 139 digs.
All three are seniors.
WRH started the season with eight wins before falling to Midway. Four wins followed and then a loss to 5A Jacksonville in which Gavin did not play due to an injury as head coach Kevin Williams left her on the sideline as a precautionary measure. He later cringed at the idea of his team without its quarterback.
The Bulldogs stumped Midway three matches later. The Raiders got revenge in the fourth round of the playo s.
Expect all three WRH players to be in the running for marquee individual awards when the Duplin Journal announces its all-county squad.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Head coach and o ensive coordinator Kevin Motsinger has watched running back Jamarae Lamb destroy every team WRH has faced this season.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Trashawn Ru n-led ND is a heavy favorite to pick up a win against Southside-Chocowinity.
Gavin Cavallaro Page
Davis, Mille, Falatovich spark Crusaders past Lions
HCA recovers from a tough loss to end its regular season with a 31-21 triumph over Hickory Grove Christian in the rst round of the NCISAA’s 2A playo s
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
HARRELLS — Turnovers determine outcomes in football
Forcing and avoiding them leads to winning.
These critical mistakes are generally the mark of the losing side.
Harrells Christian Academy knows the rules and last Friday also limited turnovers during a 31-21 win over Hickory Grove Christian in the rst round of the NCISAA’s 2A playo s.
“I feel like we made all of ours in our two losses,” said Crusader head coach Clayton Hall.
“You can’t have turnovers and penalties and beat a No. 1 seed.”
And that sums up the Crusaders’ approach before heading to top-seeded and unbeaten High Point Christian on Friday for a semi nal matchup in Guilford County.
“They have a running back (Jaylen Moore) who has run all over people (246-1,889, 30 TDs) and is going to Cornell, who is extremely tough to tackle.”
HCA fell to the Cougars 56 -35 on Sept. 12 and were coming o a heartbreaking 29 -20 setback to Trinity in its regular season nale, committed eight turnovers in its losses.
“They are not going to try to air it out but rather run it right at you, but in a di erent style than what we do,” Hall said.
“They are real big up front.”
HCA (9-2) adjusted its offensive line after losing center Landon Toler to an injury, as Hall went to sophomore Caven
from the same spot on the eld.
And with 2:17 to play, Greene Central needed less than a minute to respond, as WRH dropped back its linebackers and secondary deeper.
Cetnar hit JoJo Sanders for a score on second-and-5, and Cobb annexed the conversion with a plunge into the end zone.
WRH ran out the nal 1:10 on the clock to ensure it won’t have a losing record this fall. The last time that happened was 2008 for the longest streak in Duplin County. East Duplin and James Kenan were under .500 in 2020, and North Duplin fell below the break-even threshold in 2021.
While Greene Central didn’t have the line play it needed, the Rams’ running backs and other skill position players tested WRH at every turn and in the rst half were the aggressors.
Two penalties killed the Bulldogs’ opening drive. The Rams moved the ball on their rst possession and got WRH to jump o sides on fourth-and-3 to keep the march alive.
Three plays later, Cetnar found Trey Byrum (3-100) for a 29-yard scoring strike.
WRH chewed o more than seven minutes of the clock to go in front 7-6.
Lamb started the action with a 21-yard scamper via a sweep. Adrian Glover (4-28) had a pair six-yard runs and Lamb went for six-, ve-, 11- and ve-yard pushes into the line.
Chambers, a 6-foot, 155-pound two-way lineman.
“He did a heck of a job in a big spot,” Hall said. “He stepped up, and we moved the ball. Look, he’s got a lot to learn, but he did what you have to do here: play when you get called.”
Jarrod Miller scored four times, Jeremiah Davis went over the 1,000-yard mark and Riley Falatovich made nine tackles in HCA’s sixth win in eight tries at Murphy-Johnson Field.
HCA went in front 14-0 in the rst quarter and led 27-2 by halftime in a game similar to the Crusaders’ 41-7 win on Sept. 29 on the same turf.
Davis passes plateau, Miller scores four times
Davis, who was limited to 20 yards on six carries against Trinity, galloped for 167 and two scores to up his season total to 1,238 yards and 14 touchdowns. It was his fth 100 yard-plus game of the fall. He also has 190 yards in receptions and four scores.
“He emerged as a special playmaker,” said Hall of his senior who can take it to the house and not get caught in the open eld. “And we’re fortunate to have a bunch of really athletic backs.”
His biggest play might have been a 74-yard rumble.
Miller, meanwhile, lumbered for 185 yards on 18 carries and picked up a sack on the defensive side of the ball.
He had his best game as a runner, though he did score
Carr got it to the 1 by converting on third-and-4. Lamb scored, and following Dorlin Bonilla’s PAT it was 7-6.
Following the kicko , Cobb sprinted 47 yards to make it 14 -7.
Carr was the “quarterback” of WRH’s Chicken Wing attack the next series, giving Lamb a break until the ball entered the red zone.
Carr jittered his was to three rst-down runs, one of which included a 15-yard personal foul ag on Greene Central.
Defensive plays by Azaryon Clibbons, Aspen Brown, Adrian Glover and lineman Adrian Allen forced a three-and-out.
Lamb raced 52 yards to forge a 21-14 lead.
A Will Brooks sack on third-and-4 ended any hope for the Rams in the nal minutes of the rst half.
Greene Central e ectively moved the ball to start the third quarter but turned it over on downs at the WRH 30 after failing on fourth-and-7.
WRH su ered the same fate, marching to the Rams 23 before stalling out at the Greene Central 23.
Three pass plays and Cobb’s 20-yard touchdown came in a span of ve plays. Cobb ran into a wall on the conversion as WRH maintained the lead at 21-20.
Gridiron notebook
Lamb (245-2,281, 29 TDs) is third in rushing in all classi cations, though he’ll have a hard
twice in a win over North Raleigh Christian and had 136 yards and a score in a triumph over Covenant Day.
Defensively, McKoy, Davis Bradshaw and Xander Garcia each had ve tackles. Miller and Jesse Smith each made four. Davis, Bradshaw and Drake Smith had fumble recoveries.
Hall, the o ensive coordinator, watched HCA roll to 430 yards on the ground.
Reid Strickland’s one completion in ve attempts went to
Demetrius Jones for 20 yards. And why pass when Davis and Miller are averaging a rst down, 11.9 and 10.3 per carry, respectively?
Yet to beat the Cougars, a diversi ed attack might be needed.
Strickland (40-70 for 785, 13 TDs) threw for 212 yards and scores to Davis and Dashaun McKoy in the regular season encounter. But HCA will need to avoid the 35-6 hole it dug against the Cougars (10-0).
High Point logged its sec -
ond straight and fourth overall shutout to end the regular season and have allowed just 10.8 points per game, while scoring 45.1.
Quarterback Amsterdam Knox (53-94 for 783, 9 TDs, 8 interceptions) has also had shining moments to complement the running of Moore, who has rushed for 3,535 yards and 49 touchdowns with 494 receiving yards and 6 more scores in his sophomore and junior seasons. He ran for 236 yards and three scores with two catches for 20 yards against HCA. Trinity (8-2) hosts the Asheville School (6-2-1) in the other semi nal a air.
Havelock sends Wildcats into o season
Kaleb Montayne threw three touchdown passes and Jayden Howard ran for three scores as No. 12 Havelock slammed No. 21 Richlands 47-0 in the rst round of the 5A playo s. Montayne had short touchdown passes to Aluric Jackson (1-3) and Lloyd Jones (1-8), plus a 25-yard heave to Zy’King Patillo, while Howard toted the pig 11 times for 112 yards.
The Rams, who were an uncharacteristic 6-5, travel to face No. 5 Currituck County (8-2), where a win could pit them against Coastal Conference foe Croatan, the fourth seed.
Quarterback CJ DiBenedetto, who threw for 117 yards and two scores in a 49-20 loss to the Rams on Sept. 19 in Richlands, was 5 of 15 for 43 yards.
Richlands, which will graduate 17 seniors in June, won two of its nal three games to nish 3-8. The Wildcats were 9-2 in 2024.
time catching Dixon’s JJ Gulat (319-3,138), the senior. The Duplin County record is 3,511 by the Bulldogs’ Kanye Roberts in 2021. That same season, Antwon Montgomery ran for 1,723 yards and Kamound Far-
rior 1,084 as WRH fell to Shelby 55-34 in the 2A title game in Chapel Hill. Darrius McCrimmon had eight tackles. Brooks and Wells had six apiece and Lamb ve. Motsinger’s decisions to go
for 2-point conversions were justi ed as the Bulldogs needed both to win.
No. 3 Midway plays No. 14 Kinston in an interesting matchup of teams that WRH lost to by a touchdown.
WRH from page B1
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
The WRH defense held its ground just enough late in the game to beat Greene Central.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
HCA’s Davis Bradshaw, left, and Xander Garcia didn’t let Hickory Grove Christian get comfortable o ensively during the Crusaders’ rst-round playo win.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE
Funez, Acosta, Flores delivering scoring punches for Bulldogs
WRH, winner of 13 straight matches, is three wins from a berth in the East Region nal
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Entering this week, the Wallace-Rose Hill soccer team hadn’t lost a match in nearly two months.
And Aaron Murray’s rst Bulldogs team found its way during a 13-game winning streak that started in Swine Valley Conference play and continued with a 6-1 rout of No. 18 Eastern Randolph last week during a second-round playo game.
No. 2 WHR (15-4-1) hosted No. 7 Trinity (11-8-3) early this week in a match that is a steppingstone to a possible third-round clash with the winner of No. 3 Greene Central (15-4-2) if the Rams can get past No. 6 Princeton (15-7). If that sounds like looking forward too much, remember that WRH is briming with a con dence that started following a 2-1 loss to Cape Fear on Sept. 16.
The Bulldogs were 2-4-1 in nonconference play as Murray’s inexperienced team learned what it was like to play with a scoring sensation as Alex Zepeda, an all-state striker whose 48 goals before graduating in June.
Murray didn’t get in a hurry as two seniors and a freshman became the three-prong spear for the o ense.
Felix Funez, Steven Acosta, Wilmer Flores each came into their own during the two -month period.
Funez has been the most consistent scorer throughout the campaign, while Acosta and Flores blossomed during the conference matches. Flores has 22 goals and 11 assists, and he is second in Duplin County in points behind East Duplin’s Yoskar Canales (24 goals, 11 assists).
Classmate Acosta, who had eight goals last season, has 14 scores, including 13 in his past 13 matches.
Freshman Wilmer Flores also has 14 scored with 13 coming during the same span.
All told it equates to 41 scores, and while short of the total Zepeda posted when sending WRH to a 22-win campaign in a bigger classication, it’s not allowed the opposition to zone in on one player as was done against Zepeda.
“They’ve gotten better and are working better together,” Murray said. “They got past the ‘I got a goal so we won’t lose lose” by pushing for goals to put teams away. They’ve proven what they can do.”
Murray said Cristian Calderon has returned to form following an injury and a slow start after breaking his tibia eight months ago. Calderon knows how to move the ball into scoring position from his spot in mid eld.
“He got past the mental block on an injury and is really giving us energy as a connection to our Big 3,” Murray said. “He’s 100% healthy after being a step slow early on. I see him trusting his steps and moves now.”
Yet the improvement of goalie Angel Sevilla and the Bulldogs’ defense also ranks highly in the success of WRH.
“Of the 21 goals, only ve are on him,” Murray said. “He’s really holding down the back line and the net. He’s battled through two injuries. His condence is high, and I think he’s at 100% in the postseason.”
Cergio Acosta, D’Angelo Pineda, Dorlin Andrande and center back Bryan Sanchez have become comfortable in front of Sevilla.
“I’m really starting to see that group progress,” Murray said. “We need some tougher, closer games for them to refocus. They’re ready to play and ready to win.”
Murray is pushing for more from a young Bulldogs team that beat Clinton (2-1) earlier this season. The Dark Horses (23-2) are the No. 2 seed in 4A, and WRH won’t have to go through Clinton as it has when both were 2A schools.
No. 3 Greene Central (15-4 -2) has also won 13 straight and has not lost to a 3A foe this fall.
No. 1 North Carolina School of Science and Math (18-1-2) is the big gun on the top half of the bracket and is expected to be in the East Region nal.
Bulldogs league foe Midway (15-6) might have the best shot of knocking o the Unicorns.
Everyone involved in second-round triumph
Seven players had at least a point during the conquest of the Wildcats after WRH’s rst-round bye.
Funez had a pair of scores, with Steven Acosta, Junior Ayestas and Sanchez adding goals.
Flores, Pineda, Cergio Acosta and Gabriel Cubas had assists. It was Cubas’ team-high 12th assist.
“Feeling good going into the third round, spirits are at an all-time high,” Murray said.
“We’re con dent, but not overcon dent. It’s nice to be at home.”
Jaguars clip Panthers
East Duplin and Carrboro had each given up three goals in their previous six matches entering last week’s second round 4A playo encounter.
Joseu Sepulvedo-Nazario and Alex Ramirez connected for scores as the No. 10 Jaguars beat No. 7 East Duplin 2-1 in Beulaville. Osiris Mendoza knocked in the Panthers goal in the second half after ED trailed 1-0 at haltime.
ED (14-8-2) drew a bye in the rst round. Carrboro (14 -8-1) faces No. 2 Clinton in the third round.
The Panthers, who were 15 -7-1, had back-to-back winning seasons for the rst time since 2017 and 2018.
Princeton slips past Tigers
Josh Coley scored a rst-half goal and Princeton and goalie Thomas Crews held o James Kenan for a 1-0 win in the second round of the 3A playo s.
Crew had 11 saves for the No. 6 Bulldogs (15-7), who beat No. 11 JK 4-3 and 5-1 during the regular season.
JK (10-10-2) made sure it would not have a losing season by taking down No. 22 Whiteville 4-1 in the opening round in Warsaw earlier in the week.
Tigers head coach Mitchell Quinn (193-64-11) is seven wins shy of 200 and has not had a losing season since taking over in 2013.
Vikings roar past Rebels
Voyager Academy banged in ve- rst half goals to cruise past North Duplin 7-0 last week in rst-round action in the 2A playo s. The Vikings (10-10-1) shut the door on the Rebels’ top-scoring duo of Emanuel Mendez and Sergio Garcia. ND lost six of its nal seven matches to nish 3-10-2.
Jeremiah Davis
HCA, football
Jeremiah Davis went over the 1,000-yard mark last Friday during Harrells Christian Academy’s 41-21 win over Hickory Grove Christian.
Davis hit for 167 yards and scored twice, averaging 11.4 yards each time he touched the football.
The junior has come a long way since 2024 when 35 carries got him 235 yards and his lone score came via a pass.
The Crusaders’ go-to back has 1,138 yards and 14 touchdowns, including a season-high 207 yards against North Raleigh Christian.
His six games of 100 or more yards have helped HCA go 9-2. The Crusaders travel to face No. 1 High Point Christian (10-0) on Friday.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Brayan Sanchez and WRH have become one of the best teams in 3A during a rebuilding season.
stretched-out hand of its 500th win.
JK has won the past two games, though WRH triumphed in the previous 16. The Bulldogs lead the all-time series 47-29.
The Tigers have had a week o to prepare, while the Bulldogs beat Greene Central 37-36 last Friday in the opening round.
“We’ve had a good and restful week working on the mistakes we made,” said Tim Grady, who is 42-15 since taking over in 2021. “We’re looking for a few wrinkles that could help us out. It’s hard to beat a good team twice, especially given how well we know one another.
“To me, it’s about who makes mistakes and who can excel at the highest level because that’s exactly what it takes in a game like this.”
His counterpart, Kevin Motsinger, who coached at JK for three season (going 24-14 from 2003-05), is 186-85 during a career that includes a nine-year stop at New Hanover.
Yet it’s worth pointing out that WRH has played teams tough, including one-score losses to No. 3 Midway and Pender, the No. 2 seed, in overtime.
JK’s o ense scored twice against the Bulldogs as a scoop and score and kicko return gave the Tigers two defensive touchdowns.
“We respected but didn’t totally realize how good they were up front,” Grady said. “I’ve challenged our o ensive line.”
Motsinger says WRH does not have the depth it has had in past seasons, and the injuries have made the season be one of constant adjustments.
“We’re beat up and banged up and may have nothing left, but those kids are going to give it all they have,” he said. “James Kenan has a lot of athletes, and we have to stop the super power and their passing game.”
WRH will depend on Jamarae Lamb having a big game. He’s averaging more than 200 yards per game and leads Duplin County in rushing (2,281 yards) and touchdowns (29).
But running back Jamari Carr (48- 443, 9 TDs), fullback Montavious Hall (45-263, 2 TDs), split end Adrian Glover (3-86, TD; rushing, 17-365 receiving) and Logan Marks (12-128, TD) will need to make contributions beyond blocking for Lamb, who scored ve times against Greene Central.
JK’s top runner, Jeremiah Hall (104-1,367, 21 TDs), could be in for a breakout game. He was held largely in check in the rst game.
Look for CJ Hill (37-361, 9 TDs) to get his share of totes and to be a target for quarterback Eli Avent (37-61 or 722 yards, 11 TDs).
Taulil Pearsall (45-451, 8 TDs) and David Zeleya are also weapons for the o ense. Zeleya (10.5 tackles per game) is the leading tackler but singlehandedly was the biggest thorn to WRH last season in the playo s.
Other defenders of note include Cal Avent (7.6), Stedman McIver (9.5), Jacquez Smith (7.9), Cal Avent (7.6), Pearsall (7.5 and Zamarion Smith (7.0) and Pearsall.
WRH bulks up with linebackers Will Brooks (6.2) and Aspen Brown (5.3), linemen Khajyre Murphy (7.0) and Adrian Allen (4.3), and defensive backs Darrius McCrimmon (5.1),
Glover and Lamb, who stick to receivers like an old tattoo.
The winner faces the survivor of No. 8 Whiteville (8-3) and No. 9
Ayden-Grifton (7-4). No. 4 Louisburg and No. 5 Martin County (7-3) are likely third-round foes in the upper part of the bracket. No. 3 Midway (8-2) has an interesting matchup with No. 14 Kinston (7-4), while No. 2 Pender (9-1), No. 6 Pasquotank (7-3) and No. 7 Northeastern (7-3) all have the potential to make a run from the bottom bracket.
2A: No. 14 Southside at No. 3 North Duplin
Everything here points toward a Rebels victory as No. 3 ND (9-1) looks to ride senior running back Carell Phillips (160-1,726, 24 TDs) into a third matchup by powering past Southside-Chocowinity (5-6), who beat Pamlico County 52-28 in the opening round of the 2A playo s. ND beat the Seahawks 27-0 in its season opener.
But they will have to keep quarterback Javonn McCall (84-624) in line. The senior had thrown for 1,171 yards and passed for 613.
Yet this could be nothing more than a muscle ex for ND as four of Southside’s wins ve wins have come against Jones Senior, North Edgecombe, Lejeune and Pamlico, who are a combined 5-37.
A win will push ND into the winner of No. 6 Holmes (6-4) and No. 11 Perquimans (5-5). No. 4 East Bladen entertains No. 20 Union in the rst of two Carolina Conference matchups, which includes a rematch between No. 9 Hobbton (6-4) and No. 9 Lakewood (6-4). No. 1 Tarboro (10-0) is the beast of the East in the top bracket.
4A: No. 14 North Johnston at No. 3 East Duplin
This also appears to be a mismatch between schools with Panthers mascots.
While North Johnston (7-5) beat Washington 28-14 in the rst round,
these cats are not on the same level as ED (8-2).
North Johnston won its rst three games against Bedding eld, Holmes and Rosewood; the three are a combined 10-22.
NJ then lost three of ve before, with one victory coming against 1-9 North Lenoir. The Panthers have a more solid resume and roster, which includes running backs Shawn Davis (138-890, 12 TDs), Aaron Hall (101-614, 6 TDs), Dewayne Davis (40-383, 7 TDs), quarterback Branson Norris (8-66 for 429 yards, 7 TDs) and RB/WR Keeshon Mckinnie (6-112, 2 TDs receiving, 3-220, TDs rushing) and wide receiver Zachary Ball (11-170, 2 TDs).
Mckinnie leads ED in tackles, while Ball has a team-high seven interceptions.
North Johnston will depend on quarterback Kaleb Prone for his passing (55-95 for 876 yard, 12 TDs) and running (122-952, 15 TDs) games.
Prone is athletic, as shown in last winter’s basketball season when he averaged 18.9 points per game.
Strong safety Bryson Brown (9.4 tackles), Esiah Bennerman (8.4), Shawn Davis (8.2), Dorian Davis (6.9) and linemen Jacuri Hill (7.4) and Allen Stukes (5.4) are also key playmakers for defensive coordinator Seth Sandlin’s unit.
Head coach and o ensive coordinator Battle Holley (163-60) will likely have a blast see his team dominate the No. 14 team.
The winner takes on the survivor or No. 6 Bunn (8-2) and No. 11 Southwest Edgecombe (6-5). No. 2 West Craven (9-1), No. 2 Andrews (8-2) and No. 10 Clinton (6-5) can’t be overlooked, nor can No. 1 Reidsville (8-2) and No. 4 Central Davidson (9-1) in the top half of the bracket.
It’s win or go home in the playo s as schools in eight classi cation go for the ultimate fall prize.
Duplin County has captured 11 state titles.
For the record WRH (1998, 2009, 2010, 2014-17) has seven titles, JK (1960, 2007, 2013) three, and ND (1972) and ED (2022) once apiece.
NOTICES
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#25E001432-300
The undersigned, TARA J. HOLMES, having quali ed on the 3RD DAY of NOVEMBER, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of WILBER WOOLARD BAILEY, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13TH Day of FEBRUARY 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13TH Day of NOVEMBER 2025.
TARA J. HOLMES, ADMINISTRATOR 229 WESTONS WOOD RD. PINK HILL, NC 28572
Run dates:N13,20,27,D4p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#25E001393-300
The undersigned, SOMMER WILSON, having quali ed on the 6TH DAY of OCTOBER, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ANITA LOIS BURTON, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 30TH Day of JANUARY 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 30TH Day of OCTOBER 2025.
SOMMER WILSON, ADMINISTRATOR 140 RAYMOND HUGHES LANE BEULAVILLE, NC 28518
Run dates:O30,N6,13,20p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE OF AUCTION FOR NONPAYMENT
The storage units contents will be sold for nonpayment of storage rental fees. Bid amounts start at the price owed on the units. All payments must be made in full, cash only, prior to the sale to stop the auction process.
Adrian Hall – #26
Zaphorah Brinson – #45
David Hollingsworth – #62
Auction Date: Nov. 24,
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Cal Avent, Lee McRae and Jeremiah Hall plan to celebrate a home win against WRH.
QUINN MCGOWEN
Annie Bernice Drayton
Dec. 8, 1930 – Nov. 4, 2025
Annie Bernice Martin Drayton, 94, of Warsaw, NC, passed away on November 4, 2025, at her residence. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at First Baptist ChurchWarsaw. Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Martin Cemetery in Warsaw, NC.
On December 8, 1930, a beautiful baby girl was given to Carrie Bowden Martin and William James Martin. Her name was Annie Bernice Martin, and she joined three other siblings: Joseph, Dorothy and James Leonard. The family was a loving, supportive and hard-working Christian family.
“Bernice”, as she was called, always had a zest and curiosity for life. She loved interacting with people and helping people. She manifested a deep concern and a love for children, which is why she chose to enter the teaching profession.
Upon her graduation from the former Douglass High School in her hometown of Warsaw, she entered Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, as an early childhood education major. Upon obtaining the Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Shaw, Bernice was employed at Carter G. Woodson Elementary School in Richlands, North Carolina. There, she earned the respect and love of many students and coworkers.
After her work was completed in Richlands, she returned to Duplin County, where she worked at P.W. Moore Elementary School in Faison, North Carolina, for many years. During the summer, she worked in a Head Start Program at Warsaw Elementary School. Finally, Bernice was called to employment at that same school, Warsaw Elementary. She retired after over thirty years of service.
During her lifetime, she served as a member of the Pastor’s Aide Committee, the church Mother Board, the Missionary Circle, the Hospitality Committee, the History Committee and the Martin Luther King Jr Committee. Bernice also served as a cochairperson, along with the late Mrs. Velma Wilkins, on the Shaw Day Committee. She later became the chairperson of that Committee. Other organizations include the now defunct Daughters of Zion.
Participation in professional organizations include the Duplin County Association of Educators. Bernice was also a member of the NAACP and a dedicated member of the Epsilon Phi Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Additional organizations in which she held memberships were the now-defunct Modern Matrons and Shaw Club.
She loved to travel and enjoyed visiting numerous states and foreign countries.
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Annie Bernice Martin Drayton peacefully answered the Master’s call at her residence.
She was a loving and dedicated mother to her daughter, Jacquelyn Drayton, and to countless cousins and friends. She will be sorely missed by all.
Thaddeus Hill
Dec. 7, 1949 – Nov. 6, 2025
Thaddeus Hill, 75, of Chinquapin, NC, passed away on November 6, 2025, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, NC. The service will be at noon on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at First Missionary Baptist Church in Chinquapin. Visitation will be 11-11:45 a.m. (prior to the service). Interment following the service at Hill Family Cemetery in Chinquapin, NC.
Thaddeus Hill was born on December 7, 1949, to the late Vernell and the late Toyie BattsHill. Thaddeus received his grade school education within the Duplin County Public Schools. He developed both wisdom and lifelong friendships, graduating from the Historic Charity High School, Rose Hill, NC. His journey through life was truly divine. On May 29, 1970, he married the love of his life, Pauline Thomas. Their union was blessed with two children — Teresa Renee and
Christine Holland
Dec. 25, 1937 – Nov. 4, 2025
Christine Holland was born on Christmas Day, 1937, in Duplin County and went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the age of 87.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William ‘Billy’ Holland and brothers, Cecil, H.D., and Mac Southerland. She was the daughter of the late Henry and Wren Southerland.
She is survived by her son, Richard Holland and wife, Diana, of Penderlea; grandson, Matthew Eakins (Sabrina) of Burgaw; greatgrandsons, Atticus and Atlas; sister, Doris Hilliard of Penderlea; and nephews, nieces and friends who loved her dearly.
Christine was a devoted wife and wonderful Ma. She was a Nana who loved her grandson and greatgrandsons and they loved her. She was a great sister and a better Aunt Teen.
The Bible says in Genesis 2:18: “And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be
March 21, 1938 – Nov. 7, 2025
Thaddeus Ramon.
Thaddeus worked faithfully for 38 years at General Electric in Castle Hayne, NC. He was known for his good humor and for “jawjacking” with his many friends and co-workers. Even after retirement, he stayed in touch with his GE family — calling, reminiscing, and occasionally going shing with them. A lifelong and devoted member of First Missionary Baptist Church, Chinquapin, NC, Thaddeus served faithfully as an Usher and Trustee, always committed to his church and community.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife of 55 years, Pauline Thomas Hill of Chinquapin, NC; one daughter, Teresa Renee Roberts (Richard) of Hillsborough, NC; one son, Thaddeus Ramon Hill of Stuttgart, Germany; two granddaughters, Toyie and Iyania Bullock of Mebane, NC; two brothers, Rudy Hill (Judith) of Windsor, CT, and Marvin Hill of Raleigh, NC; one sister- in-law, Lornise DormanWalls (Karl) of Fort Washington, MD; one brother-in-law, James Murray (Maebelle) of Wallace, NC; three nieces, NuyKiesha Hill-Wallace of South Windsor, CT, Jasmine Dorman of Bronx, NY, and Ariel Aarons of Raleigh, NC; two nephews, DaJuan Hill of Hartford, CT, and Robert Murray Jr. of Philadelphia, PA; two aunts, Daisy Dixon and Nicie Williams of Rose Hill, NC; one uncle, Levi Batts (Deborah) of Philadelphia, PA; and a host of other relatives and friends who will dearly miss him.
alone; I will make him an help mate for him.” This personi es who Christine was. But God didn’t just create her to only be a helpmate for her husband. She was a helpmate to her entire family, the matriarch who did not let those around her go without. Not without food, not without shelter and most undoubtedly, not without love.
Gary Chapman has a book called ‘The 5 Love Languages’. Ma’s was Acts of Service…. food service to be exact. She was happiest when there were feet under her dining room table. Her pantry, freezer and heart were full. And everyone who stopped by left satis ed when they came by to visit. She made a mean Pineapple cake! She was the epitome of the Proverbs 31 Woman. ‘For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her.’ She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She riseth also while it is yet night…. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengthened her arms. While she was not afraid of snow…she didn’t like it at all (too messy). Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in the time to come.
While we grieve her loss here, we know she is in the presence of God. We are left with that comfort and with memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home, Burgaw Chapel, with J. W. Hilliard and Michelle Hilliard o ciating the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.
November 7, 2025
All services are private. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie and Odith Pritt, and her spouse, Wesley Truman. She is survived by sons John Mobley (Tammy) and Joe Mobley (Beverly), both of Beulaville, NC; daughters Evelyn Smith of Beulaville, NC. Betty Gri n of Albertson, NC, Peggy Bird (Mark) of Orgas, WVa., Ramona “Cricket” Bowen (Roy) of Albertson, NC, and Kim Gri n (Hot Rod) of Beulaville, NC; sister Janet White of Swansboro, NC; brother Larry Pritt (Mary) of Louisville, KY; 17 grandchildren; and close family friends Johnny Miller Sr. and Johnny Lynn Miller.
Thomas Ervin “Pop” Atkinson
Feb. 5, 1954 – Nov. 3, 2025
Virginia- Mr. Thomas Ervin
“Pop” Atkinson, age 71, passed away peacefully at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia, on Monday, November 3, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on February 5, 1954, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, to the late John D and Alice Atkinson, he lived a full life devoted to his family and career.
Thomas graduated from Goldsboro High School in 1972. He joined the US Army in 1973 and served honorably until his retirement in 1993 as a Sergeant First Class in the Army ROTC Department at
Eugene “Gene” Linwood Nethercutt
Nov. 28, 1927 – Nov. 4, 2025
Eugene “Gene” Linwood Nethercutt, 97, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Gene was born on November 28, 1927, in Beulaville to the late Ivey Clarence and Daisy Hardison Nethercutt. He was happily married to Pauline Bland Nethercutt for 68 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother, JC Nethercutt, and sisters, Mildred Howard and Dorene Smart.
Gene is survived by a son, Timmy Nethercutt and wife Lori, and daughter, Joan Barnette and husband Johnathan; ve grandchildren, Lauren Norwood and husband Josh, Heather Jones and husband Taylor, James Nethercutt and wife
Altheria Parker Cornelius
May 27, 1951 – Nov. 4, 2025
Warsaw- Ms. Altheria Parker Cornelius, 74, completed her earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Please remember her family during their time of bereavement. The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Hines Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, located at 320 Prospect Street, Warsaw, NC 28398. There will be a viewing from 11-11:50 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Devotional Gardens 1260 NC Hwy 24 & 50, Warsaw, NC 28398.
the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in Lexington, Virginia. He loved his home and community in Buena Vista, Virginia, so he remained there and continued to work at VMI in the Army ROTC Department, retiring again in 2022 as the Recruiting Operations O cer. In 1981, Thomas married Lovie Minter and together they raised two children, Tonya and Michael Thomas. They were blessed with three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Thomas is survived by his brothers, Delton and Darryl Atkinson, and sisters, Judy Best and Terryl Atkinson. Thomas loved all his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He also loved sports, and he earned a reputation for his athletic abilities throughout school, his military career, and in the community.
The Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. John AME Zion Church, 584 Pecan Road, Dudley, NC 28333. He will be laid to rest at 2 p.m. at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, and please keep the family in your prayers during their time of bereavement.
Samantha, Paul Barnette, and Hannah Barnette; seven greatgrandchildren, Camden Norwood, Grayson Norwood, Ryker Norwood, Beckett Jones, Everly Nethercutt, Everett Jones, and Luka Nethercutt; sister, LouAnn Mothershead, brother-in-law, Harry Smart, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Gene lived a life anchored in love, rst and foremost, a deep and unwavering love for God. His faith guided every step he took and shone through in the way he treated others, with kindness, humility, and grace. Second only to his devotion to the Lord was his unending love for his family. He cherished his wife, children and grandchildren. Gene was a faithful member of Dobson Chapel Baptist Church for more than 45 years. He served in the United States Navy for four years. Afterwards, he tried his hand as a body mechanic in Kenansville, then chose a life of service with the United States Postal Service for 30 years.
Gene’s legacy is one of steadfast faith, sel ess love and gentle strength. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will be held at Dobson Chapel Baptist Church (1473 S NC HWY 50, Magnolia) on November 8, 2025, at noon. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m., and burial will take place at Bland Family Cemetery. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Dobson Chapel Baptist Church.
March 28, 1924 – Nov. 5, 2025
Mt. Olive- Ms. Christine Virginia Jones, a remarkable woman of strength and resilience, passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 101. She was a beloved soul who touched many lives. The Celebration of Life will be on Friday, November 14, 2025, at noon at Greater St. John FWB Church, 613 Mitchell Road, Dudley, NC 28333. There will be a chapel viewing on Thursday at J.B. Rhodes Jr. Memorial Chapel. 1701 Wayne Memorial Dr., Goldsboro, NC 27534 from 5-7 p.m.. She will be entombed at Wayne Memorial Park. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, and please continue to keep the family in your prayers during their time of bereavement.
Shelvia Pritt Truman
Shelvia Pritt Truman, 87, passed away on Friday,
Christine V. Jones
Jarvis Lane Anderson
Oct. 24, 1942 – Nov. 8, 2025
Faison-Jarvis Lane Anderson, 83, of Faison, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Mr. Anderson was born in Duplin County, October 24, 1942, to the late Flonnie Mae Hobbs Anderson DeLuca and Harry Lane Anderson.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at noon at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Warsaw, followed by burial at Faison Cemetery. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 11 a.m. at Community Funeral Home.
Mr. Anderson is survived by daughters, Mary Faye Lindsay and Bennett Harrell of Wilmington and Jenny Lane Roberts of Greenville; ve grandchildren, Ashley Lindsay Fly, Savannah Bar eld Ivey, Morgan Bar eld Craig, Joshua Cyler Bar eld, Hannah Grace Roberts; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Linda Anderson DeLuca, Gloria DeLuca Whaley, Barbara DeLuca Jackson and Rose DeLuca Blanchard, brothers, James DeLuca Jr., and Mike DeLuca.
Jarvis was a tradesman and outdoorsman. He farmed shing worms for many years and was an avid sherman. He enjoyed shing with both of his grandsons.
Jarvis enjoyed frequent visits with his grandchildren, friends, neighbors and family. He could be spotted in his gold Toyota during his “loa ng” hours.
He gave his life to the Lord and attended Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church regularly. There, and anywhere else, he passed out peppermint candies to anyone he saw.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Anderson was preceded in death by his grandson, Gregory Alphin Lindsay; siblings, Sheldon Cornelius Anderson, Ola Mae Anderson Francis, Susie Lee Precise, Donnie DeLuca and Ronnie DeLuca.
Jarvis Lane Anderson, 83, of Faison, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Mr. Anderson was born in Duplin County, October 24, 1942, to the late Flonnie Mae Hobbs Anderson and Harry Lane Anderson.
A funeral service will be held at noon on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Community Funeral Home Chapel of Warsaw, followed by burial at the Faison Cemetery.
A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 11 a.m. at Community Funeral Home.
Mr. Anderson is survived by daughters, Mary Faye Lindsay and Bennett Harrell of Wilmington and Jenny Lane Roberts of Greenville; ve grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; sisters, Linda Anderson DeLuca, Gloria DeLuca Whaley, Barbara DeLuca Jackson, and Rose DeLuca Blanchard; brothers, James DeLuca Jr., and Mike DeLuca.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Anderson was preceded in death by his grandson, Gregory Alphin Lindsay; siblings, Sheldon Cornelius Anderson, Ola Mae Anderson Francis, Susie Lee Precise, Donnie DeLuca and Ronnie DeLuca.
Crowds ock to Rose Hill for Poultry Jubilee Celebration
Warm weather and hometown spirit brought thousands to downtown Rose Hill for the two-day Poultry Jubilee held last Friday and Saturday. An estimated 1,500 visitors gathered Friday evening to enjoy the popular wing cook-off and live band, while even larger crowds filled the streets Saturday for a full day of festivities. A classic car show, vendors, food trucks and carnival rides filled two blocks around the fire house.
By noon, nearly all 30 boxes of chicken, approximately 2,000 pieces, were cooked in the town’s famous icon — the World’s Largest Frying Pan.
The freshly breaded chicken was sold by the plate or bucket, each meal served with green beans and potatoes. Lines stretched for hours as visitors waited to savor the hometown favorite, and people then gathered at picnic tables and bleachers nearby to enjoy their meals together. Proceeds from plate sales help fund the annual Poultry Jubilee and provide scholarships through its pageant program.
