Duplin Journal Vol. 10, Issue 4 by North State Journal

Duplin Journal

the BRIEF this week

Sheriff’s Office seeks help locating a missing person

Duplin County The Duplin County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance locating a missing woman. Jamie Brooke Kennedy was reported missing from the Pink Hill area of Duplin County on March 9. She was last seen on Maxwell Mill Road near Albertson on March 2. She is a 34-year-old white female with brown hair and green eyes. She is 5-foot-6 and weighs 160 pounds. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Kennedy is asked to contact Detective Green at 910-296-2150 or the Duplin County Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 910372-9202.

Magnolia FD holding barbecue fundraiser this weekend

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 Street. 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.

Teachey to kick off holiday season with Easter Egg Hunt

Teachey The Town of Teachey is gearing up for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 5 from 1-3 p.m. Families are invited to join in the excitement at the Teachey Town Park on Boney Street. The hunt promises a delightful afternoon and the perfect opportunity for local residents to celebrate the season in a lively and community-focused way. Call 910-285-7564 for more information.

AG, N.C. Turnpike warn of toll payment scam text messages

Raleigh Attorney General Jeff Jackson and the N.C. Turnpike Authority are warning residents about a surge in fraudulent text messages falsely claiming to be from NC Quick Pass. The random texts demand payment for supposed unpaid tolls. “These scam texts are targeting a massive number of people — including me,” said Jackson in a press release. “Don’t fall for them.” Clicking links can expose victims to fraud.

Faison’s Farmers’ Day Parade draws crowds for a day of celebration

Hundreds gathered along West Main Street in Faison last Saturday for the town’s annual Farmers’ Day Parade, a beloved tradition that unites the community. The parade was a lively display of pride for the town’s agricultural roots, brimming with small-town charm. Turn to B6 for more photos.

Teachey board approves annexation Animal ordinance, infrastructure discussed by Magnolia board

“The town is growing — how about that?”

The move paves the way for future development

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — The town of Teachey voted to annex a parcel of land along Log Cabin Road at Monday night’s monthly meeting following a public hearing that saw no discussion.

The 11.64-acre annexation will bring eight new state-built homes to the town. James Parker, director of public works, advised of changes to the planned annexation that would result in larger-than-anticipated lot sizes, with each lot being approximately 12,000 square feet. However, he assured the board that the lots will still retain their residential zoning designation of R-10.

“Instead of having 11 lots, they’re taking three. So they’re putting four homes on each side and a driveway down the middle,” Parker

said. “Later on, they’re going to do three more like that.”

Commissioner Wanda Henderson brought a motion to move forward with the annexation, which was approved unanimously by the board.

“The town is growing — how about that?” commented Teachey Mayor Bobby Jones.

Though the town presently uses just half of its 100,000-gallon sewer capacity a day, Parker indicated that public works is in the process of seeking sewer and water permits to increase that capacity by 75,000 gallons a day to cover the town’s expansion.

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality is advising the town to install a 12-inch sewer line and another lift station, according to Parker, though the public works director expressed reluctance as an existing line is in place.

“I told them that the town

See TEACHEY, page A2

Wallace appoints finance director

The USMC veteran will also serve as the town’s deputy tax collector

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

EXCITEMENT, optimism and good cheer suffused the town hall Thursday night as Mayor Jason Wells prepared to administer the oath of office to Ashlee Graziano during the board’s monthly meeting, officially making the United States Marine Corps veteran the new finance director and deputy tax collector for the town of Wallace.

“It gives you goose bumps being a part of something that helps the general public,” said Graziano, who has previously served her country and her community as a member of the USMC Military Police and a mathematics instructor at White Oak High School in Jacksonville.

As finance director, Graziano plans to foster the town’s growth while ensuring Wallace retains its characteristic charm.

“I definitely want to bring more federal grants to the town and get funds to beautify Wallace,” Graziano told Duplin Journal, intimating that cleaning up streets and the continued improvement of the downtown area were high priorities. The former MP also intends to ensure the police department has what it needs to serve effectively and has similar intentions for the town’s volunteer fire department that she someday hopes to see salaried.

Thursday night’s meeting also featured public hearings on the rezoning of two tracts of land in the area, indicative of the growth the town will see in the coming months and years.

See GRAZIANO, page A5

Vicki Merrick was sworn in as deputy clerk

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

MAGNOLIA — In an effort to help the town of Magnolia revise its animal control ordinance to better address the community’s needs, Joseph Ezzell, the town’s attorney, last week presented suggestions to the board based on ordinances from other towns. Ezzell discussed important considerations, such as animal limits per household, leash laws, vaccination requirements, permits and an enforcement system with escalating fines to encourage compliance.

Ezzell suggested giving the commissioners a month to review the different ordinances indicated so they can make recommendations for a draft that reflects the community’s needs.

See MAGNOLIA, page A2

“We’re going to have a really nice library for everybody to enjoy after the summer.”

Charles Banks, town manager

Bobby Jones, Teachey mayor

ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Graziano

Brooke Kennedy

K.D.

Office Phone: 910 463-1240

To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

TEACHEY from page A1

does not want another lift station to keep up,” stated Parker, adding that he’d written a letter informing DEQ of the existing line in hopes the department would allow its use in lieu of a new lift station.

“Unfortunately, last week we had to replace a pump on lift station No. 3, and that was over $20,000.”

The board also approved the town’s participation, and specifically Town Clerk Morgan Jacobs, in the North Carolina League of Municipalities’ Accounting Instruction and Mentorship (AIM) Program. Stemming from the League’s Municipal Account Services Program, AIM endeavors to improve the financial health of towns by providing resources, guidance and instruction to keep finance departments on track and up-to-date on bookkeeping and auditing services. The town’s recommendation for the program by Ann White, a municipal operations consultant with NCLM, follows a meeting Jacobs attended in Greenville last week.

“The more knowledge we can have in that area, I think the more financially responsible we can be, and we can be better stewards of the money that’s presented through our town, right? And that’s great,” expressed Jones.

The elusive Easter Bunny may make an appearance at the Teachey Park Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the town on April 5. The egg hunt will be the first event the town has held for Easter since the 2020 pandemic, according to Commissioner Ronnie Page, and will feature a bouncy house, bubble station, cotton candy machine, giveaways and more.

“This one should be a pretty good one — it’s five years in the making,” Jones said.

In other business, the town is still waiting for an update on a budget audit performed in September 2024. Joseph Ezzell, the attorney for the town of Teachey, advised reaching out for an update before the April meeting, as the audit is required for budget approval in June.

“We kind of need that done,” added Ezzel.

THURSDAY

DUPLIN CALENDAR

Happening Monthly

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

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

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

• The Faison town board meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 110 NE Center St. in Faison. For

more information, call 910-267-2721.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• The Duplin County Health Department is offering Diabetes Self Management Classes from 1-5 p.m. on the second and fouth 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.

Additionally, Banks announced that the town will install new water meters next year with the infrastructure grants received last month. These new water meters will enhance efficiency.

“Our water meters are already double their life cycle; we have meters that are over 50 years old,” said Banks, adding that this will provide new water meters for everyone within the city limits.

“(The new meters) register if you’re having a water leak within 24 hours rather than

you having a leak for a month and not knowing it. So please be patient with us,” said Banks. “We’ve got some great things coming down the line.”

Mayor Dawn Ward announced the rebranding of the Recreation Committee to the Community Engagement Committee, which will focus on local initiatives like park clean-up days and park-related activities. The board also reminded everyone that the Magnolia Fire Department is hosting a barbecue fundraiser

on March 22 at the ballpark. Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavenaugh urged the community to support the department’s efforts to raise funds for its operations. She noted that large cans of beans, potatoes and carryout trays are still needed for the fundraiser.

“I don’t think it’s too much to help support them any way that you can,” said Cavenaugh. “Those guys put their lives on the line for you — to save your house. You want them here. They’ve got to have money to keep the fire department going.”

MAGNOLIA

COURTESY MARCO BARRIENTOS

Mayor Dawn Ward (right) swears-in Vickie Merrick (left) as Magnolia’s deputy clerk on March 11.

Rose Hill picks Adams Company for CDBG-NR

The board’s selection came following a competitive bid process

By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal

ROSE HILL

— After a competitive bid process, Rose Hill’s board of commissioners decided Tuesday night at their monthly meeting to move forward with approval for the Adams Company to provide grant administrative services for the town’s 2024 Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) award.

Last year, the town received $950,000 as part of the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s CDBG-NR project, which will see four houses demolished and reconstructed

over the course of the next 36 months.

Town Administrator Angela Smith recommended the Warsaw-based Adams Company over Insight Planning and Development of Wilmington, citing cost as a principal factor in her recommendation.

“Based off the scoring, both of them have affluent experience,” said the town administrator, who indicated that either company would serve the town well.

Kevin Amory, vice president of construction for Insight, spoke during public comment in an effort to advocate for his company.

“We understand the recommendation is for the Adams Company and have no fault with that,” started Amory. “Although we did charge you, we charged you a much less amount than

we normally do for doing an application, so we do feel we made an investment in Rose Hill,” he continued. “We are a historically under-utilized business, namely a service-disabled veteran-owned small business. If this was a strict federal procurement, that alone would give us a 10% price preference.”

Amory went on to express that while this contract was not strictly federal, he felt the application discount and the 10% price preference would make Insight the low respondent.

“Just wanted to make sure the board considered it,” he said. “Whatever your recommendation is and what you vote to do, we’ll live by it. And wish the best to Rose Hill, if it’s not us.”

Ultimately, the decision of the council came down to price and locality, with Insight offering

“I prefer to keep it in our county.”

William “Billy” Wilson, town commissioner

$152,000 to Adams’ $133,000.

“Not able to differentiate by any level of service between the two, I prefer to keep it in our county,” said Commissioner Billy Wilson. A motion was brought and unanimously accepted by the board.

The board also declared its intent to close the undedicated street previously known as Avalon Drive, following the petition of Rose Hill residents Tasha Mathis and her husband, Derrick, at the town’s February board meeting. As the board

advised this course of action at their last meeting, the resolution passed with no comment or discussion.

In other news, a dilapidated building located at 110 SW Railroad St. will meet its end at the hands of Crumb Construction LLC of Greenville following approval at the monthly meeting. Built in 1907, the commercial property has seen much of its architecture reclaimed by nature following the collapse of its roof untold years ago.

Crumb Construction was awarded the bid out of four contenders at a quote of $89,000, and the company will see to the demolition and removal of the structure as well as asbestos abatement. Once the building is removed, the company will seed and fertilize the location as a measure to control erosion.

Preventative measures ramp up in Duplin amid TB rise

Nine tested positive for latent tuberculosis in a multicounty initiative

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Last

week, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services told Duplin Journal that they have seen an increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases, with 21 active cases reported in the state so far this year. In 2024, the total number was 249, marking the state’s highest number of TB cases since 2010.

This rise in cases prompted health agencies to implement preventative measures. In Duplin County, the health department’s epidemiology team expanded their efforts beyond county lines, collaborating with two neighboring counties to test

individuals. A total of 75 individuals were tested.

“Nine tested positive for latent TB,” shared Tracey Simmons-Kornegay, the health director, during a recent departmental update at the Consolidated Human Services monthly meeting. Latent TB means the individuals carry the TB bacteria but are not contagious and do not exhibit active symptoms of the disease.

These individuals are currently undergoing a four-month treatment, Simmons-Kornegay noted, adding that the expectation is for the treatment to be completed within the next month. This treatment is crucial in preventing latent TB from progressing to active TB. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of developing active TB depends on several factors, including a person’s immune sys-

tem, certain chronic conditions and whether they have been reexposed to TB.

The health director emphasized that much of this work begins with identifying a positive case, followed by contact tracing — similar to COVID-19 protocols — which was essential for identifying those at risk of exposure.

Simmons-Kornegay also provided an update on the flu in North Carolina, which, at the time of the meeting, was experiencing “the highest flu rate in the last 15 years” with 311 deaths since September 2024. Of those, 309 were adults, and two were teenagers aged 15 to 17.

“Duplin County thus far has had six deaths — four females and two males. All were Caucasian and 65 years and older,” said Simmons-Kornegay, adding that two of these seniors died in a care facility.

COVID-19 positivity rates currently stand at 4.2% with a trend around 4-5%, indicated the health director, adding that residents can pick up free at-home test kits at the health department. These kits are also available at various locations throughout the county, including the library and nutrition sites.

In other updates, Simmons-Kornegay discussed the Health Department’s budget, which operates under three distinct budget cycles.

The Health Department is also preparing for its accreditation cycle, which was extended to six years due to COVID-19.

“Our current accreditation expires on May 8, 2026,” Simmons-Kornegay explained. Key deadlines include the submission of accreditation documents by Nov. 1, and a site visit scheduled for the winter of 2026. Annie Murrell, the social ser-

vices director, reported that last month the state launched the Odyssey Case Management System. Odyssey is a centralized, web-based, integrated system that allows caseworkers, courts and other entities involved in child welfare to access a shared platform enhancing efficiency. Murrell’s department will implement the Path N.C. for Child Welfare framework in June. This framework streamlines intake procedures, prioritizes urgent case, and provides clearer assessment guidelines, ensuring child welfare professionals have the necessary tools and support to make the best decisions for children’s safety and well-being.

The board voted to hold the first four meetings of the Consolidated Human Services Board on a monthly basis, with subsequent meetings occurring quarterly. The next meeting is set for April 7 at 5:30 p.m.

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

What would Jesus do?

In today’s bitter political climate, it is all the harder to do the right thing, to do what Jesus would do.

DID YOU WEAR a WWJD bracelet in the 1990s?

With its origins in sermons by the 15th- century German-Dutch theologian Thomas à Kempis and the 19th-century Baptist preacher Charles Spurgeon, and the 1896 novel “In His Steps” by Charles Sheldon, WWJD stands for “What would Jesus do?”

The bracelets were introduced by a church youth leader who wanted to remind the teenagers about the importance of following Jesus. They became a worldwide phenomenon.

As important as WWJD is, there is an equally important question to ask: WWYD? What will you do? The scriptures are clear about what we are to do. The foundation of the Judeo-Christian tradition teaches in Deuteronomy, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.”

The book of Leviticus instructs, “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus combined these two

commandments in his answer to the scribe who asked, “Which commandment is the first of all?”

Pretty much all of Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount is a directive about what we should do. The question is, will we?

In a 2023 interview, the Rev. Russell Moore, former president of the public policy division of the Southern Baptist Convention and now editor-in-chief of The Christian Century, told of many pastors who, having quoted from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, were confronted by parishioners asking, “Where did you get those liberal talking points?” When pastors would say, “I am literally quoting Jesus,” they would often hear something like, “Yes, but that doesn’t work anymore. That’s weak.”

We saw that same kind of backlash in the response to the Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Diocese of Washington, during her sermon at the Service of Prayer for the Nation on the day after the presidential inauguration. Although she preached primarily from the Sermon on the Mount in her message about unity, she was labeled as a radical

Tariffs based on tendentious history could be political malpractice

Biden flooded with cash an already cash-flooded economy despite the warnings of top Democratic economists.

WILL THE SECOND Trump administration come undone by an economic policy based on what the British military historian Lawrence Freedman, describing Vladimir Putin’s rationale for invading Ukraine, calls “tendentious history”?

This week, it started to look like the answer might be yes.

In retrospect, it’s clear how the Biden administration’s economic policy stimulated inflation, which, together with its open borders policy, defeated Joe Biden and, after his withdrawal, his designated successor, Kamala Harris. Biden took office when large parts of the American economy were demobilized by COVID-19 restrictions while other sectors and the government continued generating income for consumers who, in COVID-19 days, had no convenient way to spend it all.

To that unique situation, Biden responded in line with traditional Democrats’ “tendentious history.” For them, it’s always 1933. The economy has stalled because consumer demand has failed, and the solution is to stimulate demand with large injections of government cash and the creation of government jobs.

Actually, that’s not what Franklin Roosevelt did. His first New Deal (193335) tried to freeze the economy in place by propping up prices and wages, and only after that became impracticable did his Second New Deal (1935-37) seek to redistribute income. But that resulted in “the Roosevelt recession” (1937-38), and the economy was revived when Roosevelt, convinced that Adolf Hitler was a menace, increased military and defense spending.

Biden didn’t follow that course — he cut rather than increased defense spending — nor did he copy the 1963-64 KennedyJohnson tax cut, which produced the gush of revenues that, for a while, simultaneously financed the Great Society and the Vietnam War.

Instead, Biden flooded with cash an already cash-flooded economy, despite the warnings of top Democratic economists Larry Summers and Jason Furman. The sharp resulting inflation was just “transitory,” Biden apologists insisted, and indeed the rate of inflation slackened. But prices never went back down, and voters remembered in 2024.

Donald Trump’s “tendentious history” is all about “a beautiful word” — tariffs. Make consumers pay more for goods from abroad, the theory goes, and factories and jobs will spring up in America.

Tariff boosters claim Alexander Hamilton as their progenitor, but he instituted low tariffs primarily because, with 18th-century technology and imports arriving only in a few ports, they were the easiest taxes for a small federal government to collect. From his time, except during the Civil War, tariffs and alcohol taxes mostly paid for the federal government until the passage of the income tax and Prohibition in the 1910s.

Trump likes to cite William McKinley, who, as House Ways and Means chairman, sponsored a tariff bill in 1890. But as president from 1897 to 1901, McKinley recognized that American industry was no longer an infant in need of protection: The United States was the leading steel producer and soon would be the leading auto producer. Just before his assassination by an anarchist, he was about to propose reciprocal tariff-cutting agreements with other nations.

Later Republican presidents regretted that tariff bills had become political pork, much like some of the stuff the Department of Government Efficiency is now targeting.

After the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act (1930) helped usher in the Depression, a Democratic Congress voted to let the president (actually, Secretary of State Cordell Hull) set tariff rates. This policy had bipartisan support after World War II and helped produce the

leftist. One U.S. congressman called for her to be deported. The U.S. House of Representatives drafted legislation condemning her sermon. In today’s bitter political climate, it is all the harder to do the right thing, to do what Jesus would do, to do what is required of us. When you are rejected for citing scripture, living out the mandates of scripture becomes even more challenging. And yet, the scriptures repeatedly call us to live according to the words of the prophet Micah, “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

The Pirkei Avot, a collection of Jewish Rabbinic ethical teachings, says, “Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief. Do justly now. Love mercy now. Walk humbly now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neitherare you free to abandon it.”

WWYD?

Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.

postwar and 1980s and 1990s booms.

This week, Trump’s tariffophilia has been directed not against China or Europe but against Mexico and Canada, despite the USMCA he negotiated in 2018 to replace the 1994 NAFTA. He suddenly imposed 25% tariffs on aluminum and steel and raised that to 50% after Ontario Premier Doug Ford placed a 25% increase on sales of electricity to New York, Michigan and Minnesota.

Ford and Trump backed down, but not before stock market prices had fallen sharply and Wall Street and political reporters started speculating that Trump tariffs and uncertainty about them, coupled with indications of weak job growth, could push the U.S. economy into recession. Free market economists joined Summers in arguing that tariffs, by imposing costs on consumers, dampen and sometimes stifle economic growth.

Trump admitted, “There’ll be a little disturbance, but we’re OK with that.”

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called tariffs “a one-time price adjustment.” This sounds no more reassuring than Biden Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s 2021 assurance that Biden-sparked inflation was “transitory.”

Markets hate uncertainty. Trump’s repeated threats, hour-by-hour changes in policy and repeated insults that Canada should become the 51st state have done the opposite of setting the stable policy framework that investors seek. He risks catastrophic disruption of relations with Canada, with whom our relations, except longstanding arguments over softwood lumber and dairy, have been excellent and our economies intertwined.

The nontendentious lesson from history is that heedlessly cutting off and restoring the flow of trade between the U.S. and Canada is an act of economic vandalism and that a “little disturbance,” like “transitory” inflation, could turn out to be political malpractice.

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

COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Passion for service, dedication to community

Meet Register of Deeds Anita Savage

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

EACH WEEK, Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Duplin Journal invited Register of Deeds Anita Savage for a Q&A session.

As the custodian of all real property records, Savage’s role is integral to the operation of local government, ensuring that documents are accurately recorded, preserved and accessible to the public. A native of Warsaw, she takes great pride in supporting the community.

Her leadership fosters collaboration with other key departments, ensuring that all property deeds meet legal standards and are properly verified. Her work supports the transparency, legal integrity and security of property transactions, which are vital for economic development and individual property rights.

In this Q&A, Savage shares insights into her journey in public service as she became the first African American woman elected to the Register of Deeds office. She is now serving her second term.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the Register of Deeds office?

The satisfaction of being able to assist citizens with vital records and recording of real property documents. I take pride in providing efficient customer service while helping citizens.

Can you tell us more about your journey from being hired as a deputy in 2003 to being elected Register of Deeds, now serving a second term?

I was hired in January of 2003 as a Deputy Register of Deeds. Attended the Basic

GRAZIANO from page A1

The Hughes Tract on Highway 117 in Pender County is presently zoned as residential and has been annexed into the town of Wallace. Applicant Keith Spalding-Robbins with the Strong Rock Group requested the rezoning of the parcel to Highway Business on behalf of the owner, Tony Davis of Avery-Davis Investments LLC. This commercial designation has the potential to bring new shopping centers, convenience stores, offices and retail establishments to the area. No discussion was presented during the public hearing, and the board moved to approve the request.

The second property under consideration for rezoning is Summerfield, in addition to a portion of the Martha Teachey property. The intention of the applicants is to develop the site into a single-family subdivision and provide afford-

Anita Savage has been serving with the Register of Deeds office for more than two decades. She was elected Register of Deeds in 2020, becoming the first African American woman elected to this position. She was reelected in 2024.

School for Registers of Deeds through UNC School of Government in November 2003.

I received my certification as a Certified Deputy Register of Deeds in 2007. I was promoted to assistant Register of Deeds in 2016. In November 2020, I was elected to the Duplin County Register of Deeds; it was a historic moment becoming the first African American elected to this position. I was elected by the citizens of Duplin County to serve a second term as Register of Deeds in November 2024.

What advice would you give young women who aspire to lead in government or other fields?

The advice I would give to young women who aspire to a career in any field is those core values my parents taught me. I was taught to be brave, stay focused on my dreams, remain true to myself and to be diligent on my journey.

able housing, with immediate plans for future municipal sewer and water lines.

“The planning board met and unanimously thought this was a good idea for development of the town of Wallace,” said Rod Fritz, director of the planning board.

The public hearing saw some discussion, though primarily on drainage issues, the ability to operate a law office under the new zoning designation, and the effects rezoning would have on the taxes and bills of current residents.

“Can’t answer that yes or no,” explained Wells in response to a query from a citizen on the possibility of tax increases, advising that a concrete answer is out of reach until the county completes its reevaluation. “I know that they’ll have it done by the end of this year, but I don’t know what that means for our bills. And I’m like you, I kind of sus -

What role does the Register of Deeds play in economic development or local real estate transactions as the official custodian of important property records?

The Register of Deeds office is the recorder of real property records. The Register of Deeds is the custodian and manager of those records here in Duplin County. Once a document is recorded and scanned into the Register of Deeds recording system, the document is accessible immediately in the office and online at the Register of Deeds website duplinrod.com.

How does the Register of Deeds office collaborate with other local government agencies or the court system to ensure the accuracy of documents?

The Register of Deeds office collaborates mostly with the Duplin County Tax De -

“I can’t wait to grow with the town of Wallace and see how we can succeed.”

Ashlee Graziano, new Wallace finance director and deputy tax collector

pect those bills are going to go up a little bit.”

A vote followed the public hearing, and the board unanimously decided to move forward with approval of the rezoning request.

In other business, the town awarded DPH Construction Company with several bids for various projects, including the cleaning of the little pond at Farrior Park to improve water flow and drainage, though efforts likely won’t start until the summertime, according to Town Manager Robert Taylor.

partment. Prior to recording a deed in the Register of Deeds office, the deed has to go to the tax office. There are components that the Register of Deeds office must check for prior to recording: originality of the document, that the document meets North Carolina’s recording standards and notary verification. The accuracy of the document is on the person who drafted/prepared the document.

Looking ahead, are there any initiatives or new technology you would like to see implemented in your office or the services you provide?

Starting Monday, March 10, the Register of Deeds office began e-recording maps. This is a huge accomplishment for the Duplin County Register of Deeds. The office will begin accepting both 18-by-24 and 24 -by-36 size maps/plats for recording.

What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy spending my spare time traveling with my family and shopping.

What was the last book you read?

North Carolina Guidebook For Registers of Deeds by Charles Szypszak is a resource book that you will often find me reading.

Where’s your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

The Filing Station of Kenansville. The food is delicious, and the service is always great! You will always see someone you know there, which makes for good conversation.

What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Duplin County?

Southern hospitality. It’s such a great place to live. The people here are always willing to help one another.

The company will also be entrusted with the town’s Waste Water Treatment Plant Dike Project, which Taylor said will begin immediately.

“It’s a little behind schedule, so we’re ready to go.”

DPH Construction will also work with the town to renovate the former Parks and Recreation building into the new town hall, with Taylor noting that construction will not start until funding has been identified at a later date.

The rezoning of the Hughes Tract to allow for the development of new commercial properties down Highway 117 and the Summerfield rezoning bringing new homes to the area is the latest sign of Wallace’s progress. Graziano said she is looking forward to helping the town continue to grow.

“I can’t wait to grow with the town of Wallace and see how we succeed,” said Graziano. “I get to be a huge part in that. It’s like a dream.”

Climate Extravaganza at Cowan Museum this Saturday Kenansville The Cowan Museum of History and Science will hold a Climate Extravaganza on Saturday, March 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., where attendees of all ages are encouraged to participate in interactive demos, hands-on activities and games that aim to educate the public on climate change and climate resilience. In addition to the engaging climate change displays, there will be presentations from WNCT 9 Weather, Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum, the Duplin County Beekeepers Association, Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, North Carolina Estuarium, Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center, NC Museum of Natural Science – Whiteville and James Sprunt Community College. Food and drinks will be provided by Master Blend Family Farms and Sippin’ Sunshine, in addition to local food trucks. The rain date for the event is March 29. Visit cowanmuseum.org for more information.

Pink Hill Public Library offers free photo digitization

Pink Hill The Etta James Turner Public Library in Pink Hill will convert cherished old photos and documents to a digital format for free on Wednesday, March 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Items are limited to 8.5-by-11.5 inches in size, with a maximum of 10 items per person. Employees on hand will help those seeking to have their hard copies digitized scan the items and secure them on provided flash drives. Appointments are not necessary for this event, and walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call 252-568-3631.

ENC offers 3D Modeling and Animation course Duplin County High school students in Duplin, Jones, and Onslow counties have the exciting opportunity to enroll in the 3D Modeling and Animation program at the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skill Center, where they’ll learn to design 3D graphics, build scenes, and edit audio and video. Participants will have the opportunity to achieve Autodesk Maya certification, an industry-standard certification required to become an Autodesk Certified User. Contact a high school career development coordinator or school counselor for enrollment information.

COURTESY PHOTO

CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

First weekend in May In Historic Downtown Wallace

DUPLIN SPORTS

Panthers rebuild after 10-year run as contender

East Duplin seeks a return to the limelight after its first sub.-500 season in a decade

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Baseball isn’t dying at East Duplin. It’s just in a lull, a dip some of the Panthers’ rivals have as a normal spring.

East Duplin was under .500 last season (10-11) for the first time since a decade earlier.

The coach responsible for the rise — Brandon Thigpen — went 98-36 in his first seven seasons, peaking with a 23-1 campaign in 2022.

But the former Panthers slugger who played four years at Methodist University isn’t to blame as much as the reduction in diamond talent from ED’s feeder schools.

Thigpen feels the Panthers program, which still gets en-

vious looks from county rivals Wallace-Rose Hill, James Kenan and North Duplin because of its success, will recover from what might be considered a low bottom, as losing seasons during the past 20 years for the threesome mean seven wins or less.

“We get the kids that come to us from Beulaville, Chinquapin and Albertson, and our job is to love them up and get as much out of them as possible,” said Thipgen, whose team is off to a 4-3 start this spring. “But, ultimately, it’s up to them to find a way to win games, no matter what kind of pitching staff you have.

“Obviously, the pitching has to get better. But so does our offense, and we have to manufacture runs by the things we do on the field and decisions in the dugout. So, in effect, we are rebuilding a program.”

ED lost all-Duplin first-team players Zach Brown (.356) and Baines Raynor (.480), yet re-

turn a solid core from 2024, including right-handed pitcher

Kyle Kern and Gavin Holmes, who plays four infield positions to allow Thigpen options when changing hurlers.

Kern, who was 2-4 a season ago during 12 appearances, has 34 strikeouts and just eight walks in 18 innings to start his senior season.

“I always thought he had the best stuff as a sophomore, and he’s tuned it in,” Thigpen said. “On the whole, I’m happy with what our pitchers have done; they’ve given us 30-plus good innings.”

Southpaw JP Murphy, who plays in the outfield when he’s not on the mound, and first baseman Cain Graham are also key to the rotation, which is under the direction of Thipgen and junior catcher Sawyer Marshburn.

“His positive approach has been so good for our pitchers

North Duplin returns eight starters from a team that advanced to the fourth round of the 1A playoffs last spring

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — The North Duplin softball team sits near the top of the 1A mountain and, in fact, regularly beats higher classification schools.

After going to the 1A finals in 2023 and being eliminated in the fourth-round of the playoffs last season, the Rebels have the players, mentality and necessary intangibles to win a state title this spring.

Senior stars Kaiden Lui and Caden Gavin will lead the way for young and rising upstarts, such as Bulldogs middle infielder Reese Buckner

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Logan Kissner and four players injected energy into the Wallace-Rose Hill baseball program last season as the Bulldogs returned to the 2A playoffs.

While Reid Page (.534) and Dallas James (3-3 as a lefty starter) graduated, two other valuable players are back on the diamond for Kissner’s second season as skipper — Mr. Baseball Kaiden Lui, a senior right-handed ace and top bat in the lineup, and shortstop Caden Gavin, who is steady in the field and leader in most offensive categories. Yet that’s not the only new

energy that’s been circulating around the baseball diamond in Teachey.

Kevin Hagar, a UNCW hurler, former longtime assistant for Cal Parker and WRH head coach for three seasons, has returned to help out with the Bulldogs’ pitchers.

While everyone is familiar with the co-owner of MIKs in Wallace, many also know something about new assistant coach Brady Johnson, a Rose Hill-Magnolia teacher who when he played was known for his hustle in baseball and football at East Duplin, where he graduated from in 2021.

Kissner is hoping freshman second baseman Reese Buckner and other young players catch the baseball fever like Lui, Gavin and Page did. Buckner, a freshman, is a starter on a team otherwise loaded with juniors and sophomores. Kissner also has a couple

North Duplin returns every starter, sans all-state shortstop Reece Outlaw.

Yet position by position, North Duplin is prepared and built for the long run, which means deep runs in the state playoffs as the Rebels seek their second title since 2015.

“I tell our kids that our season is a long practice for the playoffs,” said Jaime Kylie-Higginbotham, who enters her fourth season as the head coach after more than a decade as the head softball coach at the University of Mount Olive.

Recently, success in basketball has caused the Rebels to open softball later than most schools.

“We’re always playing our first

games against teams that have played four to six games,” Kylie-Higginbotham said. “What I appreciate is that our girls practice with a sense of urgency. They had one practice before our first game. No matter when it starts they bring excitement and lots of energy.” ND went 17-2 last season, winning the Carolina 1A Conference flag and nabbing the No. 1 seed in the East before falling to East Region champ Northside-Pinetown, the No. 9 seed.

Two seasons ago, the Rebels season ended at NCSU via a loss to 1A titlist Union Academy.

North Duplin has two off-the - chart players — shortstop Addy Higginbotham

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Panthers head coach Brandon Thigpen says junior JP Murphy can be a big contributor on the mound.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Hayden Lovette, sliding, hit .277 last season for WRH.

Duplin’s Marissa Bernal will play in the outfield

Young Bulldogs rebuilding after loss of Kennedy

WRH needs pitching and players to follow the lead of Jansley Page and Sophie Sloan to make the 2A playoff field

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Sophie Sloan, Jansley Page and Ta’Nyia Powell can put the ball in play with the best softball players in the East.

The bashing Bulldogs will need be to a little better this spring and get some help from Mattie Gavin, Maggie Boone and Chloe Straughn since Wallace-Rose Hill lost right-handed pitcher Lexi Kennedy to graduation.

Kennedy, who is playing for Wake Tech, won 12 games in 2024, with 142 strikeouts in 120 innings. She led the Bulldogs in hitting (30 hits for .536 average), doubles (11), RBIs (20), slugging percentage (.767), on-base percentage (.639) and times in which the Bulldogs looked to her for leadership.

WRH coach Cory Lovelace is grooming sophomore Payton Tynall and freshman Chloe

Turner as his replacement plan for Kennedy. Lovelace knows the development of a starter will ease the pressure on what can be a productive offense centered around his returnees and players with experience who will need to step up as second-year players.

Page and Sloan are the most noticeable bashers.

Page hit .328 last season, led WRH in runs (27) and is coming off a volleyball season last fall in which she helped WRH go 21-3 and advance to the third round of the 2A playoffs. Page missed the first four Bulldogs

games after suffering an injury during a travel-team volleyball match but has since started to get her swing back in order.

Pages will play shortstop, with Sloan to her left at second base.

Sloan is off to a slow start, hitting just .273 through four

games after hitting .353 with 12 RBIs last spring.

Straughn (.200) is at first base and Gavin (.288, five doubles, triple, homer) returns to her catching position.

Lovelace is expecting more from this tandem and underclassmen Isabella Parker (.196), Boone (.100), Tyndall (.207), and Powell, a senior, who hit .274 two years ago but was hurt and played in only three games last season.

Other players with a chance to mark forward moves include freshmen Azee Monk and Keyonna Thomas. Given its pitching woes, it’s more than likely a rebuilding year for WRH after two seasons in which the Bulldogs went 26 -16.

North Lenoir, South Lenoir and East Duplin are the top contenders in the ECC, and each have a pitcher capable of stopping the opposition’s bats. Until WRH gets solid pitching it will have to depend on its offense.

And that statement alone is enough to suggest making the state playoffs is the circled target for the Bulldogs, which has just three seniors on their roster.

Ex-’Dawg Williams leaves Mile High City for Cowboys

Javonte Williams was signed by Dallas to a one-year, $3 million contract after four years with the Denver Broncos

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

DALLAS — Fans of Javonte Williams adopted Denver as its NFL team for the past four years. And if players and coaches can come and go like hit songs, so can Williams’ fans, who will now be cheering for “America’s Team” in the fall.

Williams was picked up by the Dallas Cowboys after being released by the Broncos. He signed a one-year, $3 million deal, with incentives that can bring it to $3.5 million.

Williams, who will turn 25 on April 25, was the 35th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

The UNC star rushed for

513 yards and four touchdowns and 343 yards in receptions.

Denver was disappointed with Williams’ work following an ACL injury that kept him out of his second season (2022).

Dallas owner Jerry Jones might not have to use the team’s No. 12 draft selection to get Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman Trophy runner-up.

Dallas is also on the clock at No. 44.

Jones, whose team finished 7-10 after quarterback Dak Prescott went down with an injury at midseason, continued to make changes by replacing leading rusher Rico Dowdle, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards as an undrafted player.

After obtaining Williams, Jones signed former All-Pro Easgle running back Miles Sanders. Sanders, also a second-rounder, had four successful seasons with the Eagles (3,708 yards, 20 touchdowns) and the two injury-riddled sea-

Duplin County has received a Community Development Block Grant-Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) award in the amount of $950,000 by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC) for the 2024 CDBG-NR Project which includes 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.

sons with Carolina, where the arrival of Chuba Hubbard forced him to second-team status.

Yet new Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer has work to do, as Dallas was the sixth-worst rushing team in the NFL at 100.3 yards per game.

Williams, who shared the backfield last season, is getting a fresh start, and the Cowboys are hoping the power he showed early in his career will materialize.

Dallas must rebuild in the NFL East Division alongside Super Bowl champion Philadelphia and Washington, which was beaten by the Eagles in the NFC Championship game.

Local pigskin fanatics remember Williams as a key player on WRH’s four straight state titles (2014-17). He graduated early as the school’s valedictorian to play football at UNC.

Williams ran for 2,934 yards and 11 touchdowns in Denver.

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

your HVAC

ahead of problems - and keep your manufacture warranty valid. Visit richsheatandairnc.com or scan the QR code for more information.

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

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Jansley Page is projected to be one of the best hitters in Duplin County this spring. She hit .376 last season as a sophomore.

DENVER BRONCOS Javonte Williams, who will be 24 in April, signed a free agent contract with Dallas last week.

Tigers’ PK beats Bulldogs during physical rivalry battle

Katherine Enamorado scored the lone goal as James Kenan exacted revenge after two losses to its archrival last season

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Wallace-Rose Hill and James Kenan had vastly improved soccer teams last spring that emphasized speed and youth.

Tigers senior striker Katherine Enamorado, formerly known as Katherine Chirinos, made everyone near the pitch aware of her presence by punching in a penalty kick at the start of the second half.

It was the lone goal during a physical battle in Teachey. The two schools are 6-6-1 against one another since 2018.

“Everything was contested everywhere on the field,” said Tigers coach Kenny Williams. “For the ladies on both teams, this is without question the game they look towards all year. Both teams had moments with decent scoring opportunities, but neither was able to touch the net.”

Until Enamorado knocked in her 24th goal of the season.

“One point of emphasis this year has been coming out strong to start second halves, and we were able to do that again,” Williams said. “We challenged them to really press the attack early and try to get the lead, and they responded. I was so proud of everyone on the team.”

JK played without starting goalie Danielle Garcia, who hurt her thumb in warmups. Aleyah Wilson stepped in after playing striker the previous match.

“Wallace is a very good defensive team, one of the best we will see all year, and that certainly showed through tonight,” Williams said. “Their backline has good speed, and they play their positions and angles well. We knew coming in that this was going to be a battle and were a little concerned about our legs after having played ED the night before.”

The win avenged a pair of losses to WRH last season, defeats which cost them a higher

PANTHERS from page B1

and a testament to his leadership,” Thipgen said.

“The game has sped up for us the past couple years, and we need to increase our mental toughness. That’s why we make practice difficult. We want them prepared for pressure situations.”

With Kern on the hill, Holmes is at third base and the Panthers’ leadoff man. Junior Jack Tuck is at shortstop and in the No. 2 hole of the order, while Colton Holmes holds down second base.

Graham is the cleanup hitter, followed by DH Austin Rouse, Murphy and centerfielder Calvin Harper and Jesus Mojica.

Yet ED has just four senior starters — Graham, Rouse, Harper and Mojica — meaning the bulk of experience and growth

position in the ECC. WRH finished 10-8 overall and 5-5 in the league, while JK was 9-8 -1 and 3-6-1.

Yet both games were closely contested — 2-1 and 2-0 — verdicts.

The Tigers and Bulldogs second grudge match is May 1 in Warsaw.

Panthers rock Tigers

JK (4-2, 1-1) fell to ED the previous day 8-1, though the Panthers (2-4-2) didn’t put the match away until late in the second half.

It was 2-0 at halftime before Wilson connected with Enamorado in the first five minutes of the second half.

ED responded with a corner kick score. The next score came with 17 minutes left on the clock.

“Being the great team they are, East Duplin responded on what was just a great kick to get in front of us,” Williams said. “As we moved through the second half, their superior depth started to really show up. Even though we held the

score at 3-1 for a long stretch, their chances were gradually becoming more frequent and stronger.”

Miranda Roblero had a hat trick for the Panthers. Kaydance Drinkwater added a pair of scores, with Zoe Cavanaugh, Hailey Maready and Melanny Garcia chipping in scores and Tabor Holley, Bella Gaby and Joselin Mata-Aguilar combing for four assists.

The Panthers whipped South Lenoir 9-0 the following day as Roblero and Holley each collected a pair of goals and seven of their teammates added points via goals or assists.

It was the second straight win for the Panthers, who played quality teams early and were without Ms. Soccer Anamarie Rodrigues (19 goals) because of her commitment to the school’s basketball team, which was eliminated from the playoffs in the fourth round.

Wallace-Rose Hill (3-2, 0-2) hosts East Duplin on Friday. James Kenan and East Duplin will clash again next Tuesday in Beulaville.

of this team will flow into 2026.

The Panthers went 49-63 in the five seasons before Thigpen arrived in 2017. They don’t seem headed in that direction, even as a new conference in 2025 that includes Trask, Pender, Clinton, South

Lenoir, Southwest Onslow in a 4A/3A league. Yet East Duplin has to hit better than its current team mark of .224, even with Gavin Holmes (.467), Colton Holmes (.385) and Murphy (.286) leading the charge.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Bill Carone

THANK A FARMER 3 TIMES A DAY

Wallace, N.C.

Eli Avent

James Kenan, baseball

An injury limited Eli Avent to 13 games in 2024, though he hit .394. A few months after the all-Duplin County quarterback helped James Kenan advance to the fourth round of the 2A playoffs, the junior is hitting line drives into the outfield.

Avent laced eight hits in his first 10 at-bats from his leadoff position.

The junior-dominated Tigers team is 2-3 heading into this week’s action.

from page B1

and pitcher and third baseman Lilly Higginbotham — and a cast of experienced players behind them.

Higginbotham is the oldest daughter of the coach and has signed a letter-of-intent to play at Division I Wingate next season. Last season, the four-year starter hit .629 with 12 doubles, three triples, three home runs and 25 RBIs. The heady player also excels defensively. She will switch from second base to shortstop this season.

Sophomores Hannah Gonzalez and Gabby Zamudio are vying for time at second, while Ady Spence — who along with Higginbotham, Fulghum and Outlaw were first-team all-Duplin players — returns to her spot at first base.

Spence hit .388 with four doubles, a triple and 18 RBIs, while going 5-1 in the circle.

Zamudio hit .429 in 26 at-bats in 2024, while Gonzalez got limited playing time.

“Ady’s grown, and I got to spend a lot of time with her in the preseason,” said her coach.

“She has a higher softball IQ, and I trust her glove, arm and instincts immensely.”

Fulghum, who is a twoyear starter in the circle, was 12-1 with 84 strikeouts and

38 walks in 74.2 innings last spring. She hit .617 with 11 doubles, five triples, eight homers and 37 RBIs.

“Lilly’s an intense competitor, a really good pitcher and probably the best third baseman in the state,” Kylie-Higginbotham said.

Her daughter isn’t far from the best at her position, too. Addy Higginbotham is an all- state candidate and as solid as they come in all phases of the game, including her unselfish play toward teammates.

Sophomore Abigeal Norris returns to catch the Rebels’ pitchers.

Senior Iala Overton (.328, 19 RBIs) will play in the outfield, as will Marissa Bernal (.404, four doubles, one triple, home run), M’chelle Jaco (.361, 18 RBIs) and Zamudio. Bernal will move to third base when Fulghum is pitching.

Newcomers Sophia Davis and Ashley DeHoyas will also get diamond time as well as North Duplin will dominate many teams the first two months of the season.

The Rebels beat Lejeune (17-0) and South Lenoir (5-1) to open the season. They open CC play Thursday by hosting Lakewood (2 - 5-1). First pitch is slated for 6 p.m.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Katherine Enamorado’s scored early in the second half to lead

James Kenan to a 1-0 win over Wallace-Rose Hill.

SOFTBALL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

East

Duplin’s JP Murphy carries the hopes of the Panthers on his left arm.

EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

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

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

Rebels, Crusaders capture first wins of spring

Hunt Pate and Garris Warren led ND past the Devilpups, while Dawson Smith, Drake Smith and Jesse Smith paced the Crusaders past the Eagles

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALPYSO — Hunt Pate singled, walked, drove in a run and scored twice.

Garris Warren lashed a pair of doubles and drove in two runs, and the North Duplin pitching staff limited Lejeune to one hit during a 10-0 win over the Devilpups last Tuesday.

It was the Rebels’ first win in five games this spring.

Sophomore hurlers Keiz Brock and Ben Kelly and freshman Cole Grady each threw for two innings and combined for 12 strikeouts and two walks, as ND totaled 86 pitches.

The victory came as a relief since North Duplin has three losses to 2A schools Clinton and South Lenoir.

Wesley Holmes and Kayden Bowden each lashed a pair of hits, and Noa Quintanilla belted a two-run homer the following day during a 7-3 loss to the Blue Devils.

South Lenoir scored three times in the first and second frames via RBI hits from Matthew Rhodes and Jake Howard.

Brock logged the lone hit the following day off Jackson Smith during a 10-0 setback to Clinton last Friday.

The Rebels spend two days in Carolina 1A Conference play this week, with games against Neuse Charter (0-5) on Tuesday in Calypso and three days later on the same field against Lakewood (3-5).

Smiths help Crusaders break skid

Drake Smith and Dawson Smith singled twice, doubled, drove in a run and scored twice, while Jesse Smith limited Rocky Mount to four hits in four innings.

The net result was a 6-4 triumph for Harrells Christian Academy, its first win of the season.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

East Duplin’s Kennedy Jones tags out a South Lenoir runner during an ECC affair last week in Deep Run.

Conner Casteen and Peyton Gomez added run-scoring hits, and Jaiden Stallings struck out four and walked one over three innings of work on the mound.

Jesse Smith did his part by whiffing six and allowing one free pass over four frames.

The Crusaders look to stay on track this week against Halifax Academy (1-3) and Faith Christian (4-2).

Wildcats seek to break out of mold

Richlands has won 17 games in the previous four seasons.

That brings into play optimism following a 6-5 win over Clinton on Friday that improved the Wildcats to 3-3 this spring.

Hayden Turner, Caleb Simco and Jaden Goins knocked in runs, and Lucas Roberts scored twice.

its victory total from 2024 (4-18). The Wildcats were 3-19 in 2023, 6-16 in 2022 and 4-10 in 2021. Their last winning season came in 2013 (12-11-1).

Pamlico County rallied for six runs in the final two frames last Wednesday for a 9-7 win over Richland, which edged the Pam Pride 4-3 in the season opener for both schools on Feb. 25.

Marlon Machado belted a two-run homer and scored twice, while Marcus Branthoover, Braden Costello, Turner and Roberts combined to drive in six runs.

’Cats and ’Dawgs in softball clash with Panthers

East Duplin needs a break after dropping three consecutive games.

That could happen on Wednesday against Richlands and on Friday against Wallace-Rose Hill. Both wins and a double-header sweep of ECC cellar-dweller Kinston would be the prescription plan for head coach Greg Jenkins’ Panthers (1-3).

While favored against the Bulldogs, the Panthers fell to the Wildcats 2-0 on March 7 on the Wildcats’ turf.

ED lost a pair of close contests last week, 5-4 to West Carteret and 8-6 to South Lenoir.

Richlands (6-3) went 2-1 last week with wins over Jacksonville (3-0) and Clinton (12-0) and a setback via Pamlico County (6-0).

LeNayah Jackson went 4 for 4, and Addi Andrews, Dakota Davis and Piper Turner each drove in two runs when the Wildcats dumped the Dark Horses, scoring 11 times in the first three innings.

Makenzie Goin and Andrews combined to one-hit the Cardinals. They totaled for 15 strikeouts.

Richlands scored all of its runs in the first inning via hits from Goin, Andrews and Cameron Cubas.

The Wildcats bats were limited to three hits by Pamlico’s Kylee Morris, who struck out six and did not walk a batter, getting to Andrews for 13 hits and six earned runs.

HCA (1-4) scored five times in the first two innings.

WRH (1-4) hasn’t beaten ED since 2019 and needs a win as badly or worse than the Panthers. PREP ROUNDUP

BULLDOGS from page B1

of young players on the junior varsity team, coached by Bubba Jones’s 5-0 team, who are not long from making their debuts.

Buckner is ready for the fire as he takes over the spot left by Page.

“He’s the most talented freshman I’ve ever coached and a player who leads by example, even though he’s a freshman,” Kissner said. “He’s going to be special when he gets older.

Buckner should be so lucky to follow in the footsteps of either Gavin or Lui, both first-team all-Duplin players, last spring.

Lui hit .482 with seven doubles, two triples and a home run and knocked in 11 runs last spring when WRH recovered from a slow start to go 11-10 overall and 6-6 in ECC play.

He was 5-2 on the hill with 84 strikeouts in 49 innings.

Gavin hit .411 and will be counted on to produce to that level.

“I’ve always believed you have to be

Richlands needs two wins to exceed

strong up the middle, and those two players are keys,” Kissner said. “We practice defense every day. That and throwing strikes and avoiding strikeouts are big things for us.

“When Lui is pitching, we’ll always have a chance to win. Caden’s worked for everything he’s become today. He’s got some real good wheels, with 30 stolen bases last year. Just a real coachable kid.”

WRH catcher Will Brooks (.333) returns for his junior season, with classmate, center fielder Brayden Huffman in center field.

Lui will play third base when he’s not on the mound, otherwise look for Dane Turner, Davis Barnette or possibly Hayden Lovette (.277), though he might more likely be in left field. Khalil Mathis has played both right and left field this season and will be in the starting lineup somewhere.

WRH is off to a 2-5 start, getting its biggest win last Thursday when Lui allowed just Eli Avent’s hit during a 7-0 triumph over James Kenan.

Jackson, Davis and Luil each drove in a pair of runs.

Lui whiffed 11 and walked five.

The two rivals play again May 1 in the regular season finale for both schools.

Look for Lui to be on the hill opposite Kyle Kern on Friday when WRH hosts East Duplin in what is a crucial ECC game.

The two schools split last season’s series.

WRH let one slip away Southwest Onslow, which rallied for seven runs in the final two innings to top the Bulldogs 13-6 last Tuesday. Gavin had two hits and scored twice.

Lui, Mathis and Turner each knocked in a run, and Buckner, Jackson and Lovette each whacked hits.

WRH led 5-1 entering the fifth, as Lovette threw well before running out of gas.

“We were 2-4 last year and couldn’t find the strike zone,” Kissner. “What I really like about this team is the fight we show when were up or down.”

Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries (DCOM) is seeking an Executive Director to oversee daily operations, provide

and collaborate with the Board of Directors to implement the organization’s mission and policies. The

will have experience in nonprofit leadership, strong management skills, and a passion for

and to apply, please visit www.duplinchristian.org.

Wilma Jones Swinson

Oct. 22, 1971 – March 6, 2025

Wilma Jones Swinson, 53, passed away on Thursday in the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Center, Wilmington. She is preceded in death by her brother, Denny Jones Jr. Surviving are her father, Denny Jones of Warsaw; sons, Joshua Edinger of Warsaw and Justin Swinson of South Carolina; Daughter, Alyssa Davis of Dunn; sister, Denise Jones of Warsaw; aunt, Frankie Puckett of Kenansville; uncle, Thomas Ward of Wilson; and one grandchild. All services are private.

Shirley Johnson Lanier

Sept. 7, 2936 –March 14, 2025

Shirley Johnson Lanier, 88, passed away on March 14. She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Caroline Johnson; sisters, Mary Ruth Grady and Margaret J. Miller; and brothers, William Arthur Johnson and Jimmie Johnson.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Cecil G. Lanier; daughters, Miriam Summerlin (Morris) and Heather Lanier (Richard); son, Art Lanier (Gina); granddaughters, Lara Johnson, Emily Sandlin (Seth), Lindsey Summerlin; grandsons, Matthew Summerlin (Suzie), Eli Lanier (Alyssa), Evan Lanier, Rylie Lanier, and Tyler Lanier; greatgrandchildren, Madison, Zoey, Gracie, Tucker, Judah, Sullivan, Elliott, Bauer, Journey, Mallie, Elam; and sister, Sue Johnson.

Shirley was a devoted wife to Cecil and a loving mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother. She loved going tobirthday parties, watching the kids play ball, and family gatherings. She was a great cook, especially her famous fried chicken that always drew a crowd for a meal.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, March 18, followed by funeral services at Pathway Church. The burial followed services at Cedar Fork Baptist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pathway Church in Beulaville.

Richard Lamonte Brinson Sr.

March 3, 1952 –March 11, 2025

Richard Lamonte Brinson Sr., 72, passed away on Tuesday, March 11 at his home. He is survived by spouse Esther Brinson; son, Richard “Monte” Brinson; daughter, Jennifer B. Whaley (James); sister, Kay Straughn; brothers, Danny Brinson (Geraldine) and Morris Brinson (Patty); grandchildren Brittany Sanderson (Trent) and Victoria Mercer (Seth); and greatgrandchildren, Addison Griffin, Ava Mercer, Nash Sanderson, Dawson Sanderson, and Fallon Mercer. Funeral service was held Friday, March 14, followed by visitation at the Community Funeral Home in Beulaville. The graveside service was on March 15 at Brinson Cemetary in Richlands.

Ronald McDuffie

Feb. 3, 1975 – March 13, 2025

Ronald McDuffie, 50, of Warsaw, passed away Thursday, March 13, at ECU Duplin Hospital in Kenansville. Visitation was on Monday, March 17, at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw. The funeral service was held on March 18 at Kenansville Eastern Missionary Baptist Association (KEMBA) in Warsaw. Interment to follow at Devotional Gardens.

Nora Lynn Huffman

June 17, 1956 –March 12, 2025

Nora Lynn Huffman, 68, of Richlands went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 12, receiving the ultimate healing and gaining her reward. Despite her recent health struggles, Lynn fought hard, staying strong in her faith until the moment she took her last breath, with her children and grandchildren at her side. Lynn was born on June 17, 1956, to Roland and Betty Turner in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Throughout her life she was a caretaker for many, doing everything she could for those she loved. Whether physically caring for you, lending a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or providing a home-cooked meal, you could always count on her for whatever you needed. Lynn was a devout Christian. Her faith and trust in the Lord sustained her through the highs and lows of life. She was a dedicated member of Richlands First Free Will Baptist Church and loved her church family dearly.

Most importantly, Lynn loved her family and cherished every second spent with them. She was the best wife, mother, sister, aunt, and nana.

Left to cherish her memories are her sons Brian, Timmy (Angela), Eric (Heather), and special nephew Sam Turner (Ariana); grandchildren Cortney Butler (Aaron), Ashley Toops (Colton), Brooke Schoenwalder, Sydney Ward, Taylor Huffman, Lachlyn Huffman, Walker Huffman, Madison Scarberry, Liddie Huffman, Carson Jones, Lacey Huffman, Meredith Keating, Katelyn Keating, Payton Keating, Brenlee Huffman, Danielle Keating; greatgrandchildren Adley Sparks, Rohan Schoenwalder, Tobias Toops, Atticus Toops, Lillian Guthrie, Brooks Stinnett, and Grayson Washington; sisters Pat Jones (Wade), Connie Ward (Mike), and Bonnie Turner (KC); brother Steven Turner (Cathy); along with several other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Waiting to meet her in Heaven is her loving husband of 49 years, Stacy Huffman, along with her parents and brothers Leonard and Robert Turner.

Visitation was held Monday, March 17, at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, followed by a funeral service on March 18, at Richlands First Free Will Baptist Church, with Kenneth Huffman and Danny Padgett officiating. Burial followed at the Turner Family Cemetery.

The family wants to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and visits.

Eloise Mercer Chadwick

Oct. 12, 1959 –March 12, 2025

Eloise Mercer Chadwick, 65, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, at Lower Cape Fear Life Care in Wilmington. She is survived by her spouse, Cecil Chadwick of Pink Hill; son, David Chadwick (Kylie) of Beulaville; daughters, Melissa Mercer of Montana, Amanda Vasquez (Osvaldo) of Beulaville, Jennifer Moore (Danny Jr.) of Pink Hill, and Amber Chadwick of Louisiana; sisters, Peggy Horne (Alton) of Richlands, Frances Brown of Chinquapin, Carolyn Parker of Pink Hill, and Linda Turner of Pink Hill; brothers, Jimmy Mercer of Kinston and Russell Mercer of Pink Hill; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Memorial service was held Saturday, March 15, followed by visitation at the Community Funeral Home of Beulaville.

Gloria Jean Smith

April 23, 1952 –March 13, 2025

Gloria Jean Smith, 72, completed her earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward on Thursday, March 13, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville. The arrangements are incomplete at this time.

Gary Lee Melvin

July 3, 1961 – March 13, 2025

Gary Lee Melvin, 63, passed away on Thursday, March 13 at his home. He is survived by his son, Roy Lee Melvin (Rosa) of Clinton; brothers, LeRoy Melvin (Sandy) of Kenansville, Bobby Melvin of Garland, and Jimmy Melvin (Elizabeth) of Dover; and grandchildren, Nathaniel Melvin, Dianna Melvin, Liam Melvin, and Eliana Melvin. Memorial service was held Thursday, March 20 followed by visitation at the Community Funeral Home Chapel in Beulaville. Graveside service will be private.

Robbie Dell Maready

July 7, 1953 – March 14, 2025

Robbie Dell Maready, 71, passed away on Friday, March 14 at his home. He is survived by his spouse, Celine Maready of Chinquapin, and sister, Linda Rothrock of Winston Salem. Graveside service was held Tuesday, March 18, at the East Duplin Memorial Gardens in Beulaville, followed by visitation.

Faison celebrates agricultural roots at annual Farmers’ Day Parade

The annual Faison Farmers’ Day Parade celebrated the town’s agricultural heritage with vibrant displays, embodying the charm of small-town life. Hundreds of people gathered last Saturday along West Main Street to honor Faison’s agricultural roots. The festive atmosphere drew cheerful participants and excited children who eagerly rushed to catch candy tossed from tractors, trucks and decorated cars as they paraded through the streets.

PHOTOS BY ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL