Duplin Journal Vol. 11, Issue 20

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 20 | THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Families celebrate Independence Day Children cool off on water slides during Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church’s Independence Celebration. Turn to A6 for more photos.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Road repair update Magnolia The North Carolina Department of Transportation will begin repairs this week to address a road issue on U.S. 117 in Magnolia caused by tree roots, according to Mayor Dawn Ward.

Ward said NCDOT crews are scheduled to dig up the roots before repairing the roadway and making any necessary curb or related repairs resulting from the work. The mayor also provided an update on long-term improvements for U.S. 117, saying the roadway is included in NCDOT’s Highway Maintenance Improvement Plan for 2027. The planned paving project extends from Powell Street to North Street, covering the length of Magnolia’s corporate limits. Ward said a construction timeline will be available once the project is bid and awarded.

Local police extradite suspect in lottery ticket investigation Warsaw A suspect wanted in connection with a 2024 lottery ticket investigation has been extradited to Duplin County to face charges, according to the Warsaw Police Department.

Police said Jalen Coleman was returned to North Carolina with assistance from the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction after Warsaw investigators obtained warrants and initiated the extradition process. In addition to the Warsaw charges, Coleman also has outstanding warrants from the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Police Department, Beulaville Police Department and Clinton Police Department. Coleman’s secured bond was set at $100,000.

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New county pay plan reshuffles workforce First formal pay plan in county history reshapes dozens of jobs, eliminates positions and changes salary grades across departments

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — After years of operating without a board-approved classification and pay plan, Duplin County has formally established a countywide compensation system that reshapes dozens of job classifications, eliminates long-vacant positions and restructures multiple departments — changes that could affect future hiring, promotions and employee pay.

The Duplin County Board of Commissioners recently ap-

“It establishes the maximum amount. It gives parameters for HR to work within and also accountability within our departments.”

Lisa Hughes proved the county’s first formal Classification and Pay Plan.

According to Interim County Manager Lisa Hughes, the plan was designed to establish a formal structure for county salaries and address dozens of outdated positions that remained in the county’s system.

“The county has not had a formal document that has been a classification and pay plan,” said Hughes. She clarified that while the county had specific positions and salary ranges entered into Munis, the county’s HR and financial system, there

was no board-adopted document governing them, describing the new plan as a necessary starting point.

The plan establishes salary parameters for county positions, including maximum hourly rates for each classification. Hughes said the plan is intended to provide guidance for human resources and accountability for departments when making hiring, promotions and compensation decisions.

County records show the plan reclassifies dozens of positions across multiple depart-

Man killed during Wallace fireworks event Police said the victim was struck by a pickup truck while watching the fireworks Saturday night, and no charges are expected

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal WALLACE — A family-friendly Fourth of July event to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary turned tragic Saturday night at the Wallace Moose Lodge located near the Wallace-Pender Airport. A man who was there to watch the fireworks with his wife was killed after being struck by a pickup truck.

Wallace Police Chief Jimmy Crayton told Duplin Journal the man was sitting in a chair

directly in front of his vehicle after watching the fireworks when the incident happened.

“The gentleman succumbed to his injuries on his way to the hospital,” Crayton said.

According to Crayton, the driver of the vehicle that struck the man was operating a large GMC pickup truck and did not see the man before the collision.

The Wallace Police Chief said there was no one else injured in the accident.

At the time of the interview, Crayton said he did not yet want to identify the victim.

The accident took place in Pender County but was investigated by the Wallace Police Department.

Following the investigation, Wallace police consulted with the Pender County District AtSee WALLACE, page A2

“The gentleman succumbed to his injuries on his way to the hospital.”

Jimmy Crayton

ments, with some employees moving to higher pay grades while others are assigned lower classifications or eliminated altogether.

Some departments, like information technology and geographic information systems (GIS) saw some of the largest classification changes.

The GIS addressing tech position saw one of the largest jumps, moving from a Grade 58 to a Grade 69. The GIS administrator/coordinator position was reclassified as an IT security manager and moved from Grade 69 to Grade 70. Meanwhile, the network IT security manager position was reclassified as a network administrator and moved down from Grade 70 to Grade 66.

Other changes included the employee relations administrator being reclassified as a human resources analyst, moving from a Grade 60 to a Grade 63. The home bound meal coordinator advanced from a grade 52 to grade 55, while the solid waste secretary I became an admin support specialist I, moving from Grade 53 to Grade 56.

Library staffing was also reSee PLAN, page A5

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

Duplin adopts $79.4M budget DUPLIN

THURSDAY

7.9.26

Officials approve new budget controls while discussing future capital projects

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“Right now, they’re doing a patch system so we can try to at least get some air in that building.”

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Duplin County commissioners recently approved a $79.4 million fiscal 2026-27 budget, keeping the property tax rate unchanged while acknowledging that mounting repair costs at the aging Department of Social Services building could reshape future capital spending priorities.

The adopted General Fund budget totals $79,427,900 and maintains the countywide property tax rate at 58 cents per $100 of property valuation.

The spending plan funds core services including public safety, education, health services and social services.

The largest appropriations include the Sheriff’s Office and Jail at $13.3 million, the Social Services Division at $11.6 million, Duplin County Schools at $11.3 million, Public Safety at $10.6 million and the Health Division at $6.2 million. The budget also includes $2.56 million for James Sprunt Community College.

The General Fund relies primarily on property taxes, local sales taxes and state and federal funding. Property taxes are expected to generate about $40 million, followed by $12.2 million in local sales taxes and nearly $10.8 million in intergovernmental funding. The county also appropriated just over $7 million from its fund balance to support the spending plan.

Commissioners also approved funding for several special and enterprise funds, including $6.47 million for the School Capital Fund, $5.12 million for 28 fire districts with varying tax rates, $4.65 million for solid waste operations and $4 million for water operations of which $1.2 million are allo-

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County Manager Lisa Hughes cated for debt service.

County documents also show that several operations continue to depend on General Fund support to maintain sustainability despite generating their own revenue.

Although the airport is projected to generate more than $1 million from fuel sales and hangar leases, it still requires a $248,683 transfer from the General Fund to balance its budget.

The Automation and Preservation Fund is funded entirely through a $25,000 General Fund transfer.

While fire districts have their own ad valorem tax rates, the General Fund provides a $556,008 contribution to supplement fire protection services for FY 2026-27. Public transportation services are funded by a mix of state grants and agency-purchased services, but the budget ordinance also allows for $302,871 in General Fund support to bridge gaps.

Education also remains one of the county’s largest General Fund commitments, with $11.3 million appropriated for Duplin County Schools and $2.56 million for James Sprunt Community College.

Beyond the spending plan, commissioners adopted the county’s first formal Classification and Pay Plan, establishing standardized salary ranges and new budget controls. (See A1 for the full story.) As part of the budget package, the board adopted new budget controls which will prohibit department heads from transferring personnel funds to operating expenses without board approval.

The finance officer may also ap-

Crews continue efforts to contain Chinquapin wildfire Firefighters increased containment to 50% after several days of work on the 210-acre blaze

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

PHOTO COURTESY NINE MILE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

A wildfire near Chicken Farm Lane sent smoke into the area as crews worked to contain the blaze over the holiday weekend.

CHINQUAPIN — The wildfire near Chicken Farm Lane in Duplin County remains 50% contained, and the North Carolina Forest Service is preparing to scale back its response, according to the Nine Mile Volunteer Fire Department.

prove internal budget amendments that do not increase a department’s overall appropriation.

“Our goal is being more transparent, more cost effective with what we do in our budget,” said Hughes. “We are doing what is in the best interest of serving our citizens and being good stewards of the taxpayer dollars. And when I say taxpayer dollars, I’m not just talking about taxes. I’m also talking about sales taxes and fees and everything else because it does take a lot to run a county financially.”

While commissioners finalized the budget, county leaders also acknowledged significant maintenance challenges at the Department of Social Services building.

Hughes said the facility is in “pitiful condition” and requires approximately $250,000 in repairs, including an estimated $100,000 to replace a broken elevator and another $150,000 to address failing HVAC control upgrades.

“Right now, they’re doing a patch system so we can try to at least get some air in that building. But it pains me to be standing here telling you that we’re looking at spending $250,000 on a building that I don’t think it’s wise to spend that much money on,” said Hughes. “We’re just trying to do our best and accommodate staff and the public that comes into that building.”

Hughes urged commissioners to revisit the county’s existing master development plan to evaluate both immediate and long-term facility needs, saying additional discussions will take place in the coming months.

The board also approved an $8,000 change order for the county airport’s new hangar.

Airport Director Josh Raynor said the additional expense will fund window tinting to help reduce heat inside the building because of the hangar’s large glass windows. The project will be paid for using contingency funds.

The fire, first reported July 3, has burned approximately 210 acres. Officials said there continues to be no threat to the public, but residents should expect to see smoke as crews monitor lingering hot spots.

Fire officials said wildfires of this type can continue to burn and smolder for a while, even after rainfall. Nine Mile Volunteer Fire Department told Duplin Journal via Facebook message that it does not mean the fire is out of control. Instead, it means firefighters have secured portions of the fire while continuing to monitor areas where they are not yet ready to reduce operations.

The North Carolina Forest Service has led the response with assistance from local fire departments and emergency management agencies from Duplin, Onslow and Pender counties.

happening SPONSORED BY

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:

July 10 Campout and Cook Out JCO Campground will host its anniversary campout and cookout July 10-12 at its 22acre lake property in Duplin County.

211 Baysden Pond Road, Chinquapin

July 11 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater 5:30 p.m.

The Duplin Winery will host a murder mystery dinner theater event at the Duplin Winery’s Rose Hill vineyard. A pre-show wine tasting begins at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $75.

505 N. Sycamore St., Rose Hill

July 18 Moth Night 2026 8:30 p.m.

The Cowan Museum of History and Science in Kenansville will host Moth Night 2026 from 8:30 to 11 p.m. The event allows visitors to observe and learn about local moth species.

411 S. Main Street, Kenansville

July 21 Cedar Fork Community Club Meeting 7 p.m.

The Cedar Fork Community Club will meet at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, July 21 at 1412 Cedar Fork Road in Beulaville.

The club meets monthly to discuss community activities and local support efforts.

1412 Cedar Fork Road, Beulaville

Aug. 1 Battle of Rockfish Celebration

MARRIAGE LICENSES

10 a.m.

Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 26 marriage licenses for the month ending on June 30, 2026.

• Franklin Junior Martin, Beulaville, and Amber Dawn Beachy, Beulaville; • Michael Ardyn Fosaaen, Wallace, and Kristen Lea Williams, Wallace; • Earl Clayton Davis Iii, Rose Hill, and Chelsea Lyn Harper, Rose Hill; • Asia Jasmine Southerland, Chinquapin, Brady William Johnson, Beulaville; • Avery Brett Noble, Rose Hill, and Laura Brooke Bostic, Magnolia; • Krista Marie Lanier, Iowa, and Kenneth Eugene

Brooks, Iowa; • Willie Dolphin Murray Iii, Wallace, and Kimberly Lynn Longenbach, Watha; • Catarino Sanchez Juarez, Dudley, and Alba Floriselda Perez Morales, Dudley; • Jorge Donizeti De Jesus Munoz, Magnolia, and Maria Del Carmen Huerta Coto, Magnolia; • Anthony Vincent Ramirez, Fayetteville, and Rilee Ann Taynor, Fayetteville; • Brian Douglas Allen, Tennessee, Brandy Nicole Gilbert, Tennessee; • Owen Scott Murray, Calypso, and Alison Marie Lambert, Calypso; • Concepcion Adaly Mendoza Quintano, Rose Hill, and Velqui Sarai

Villanueva Pineda, Rose Hill;

Childress, Calypso;

• John Richard Gallagher, Maple Hill, and Crystal Marie Simpler, Maple Hill;

• Luis Anibal Berduo Perez, Mount Olive, and Diana Marisol Berduo-Velasquez Mount Olive;

• Ryan James Byrd, Pink Hill, and Savhanna Brooke Rudolph Bennett, Richlands;

• Trenton Alexzander Stokes, Wallace, and Brandon GuitierrezAlvarez, Wallace;

• Shane Anthony Durso, Texas, and Karen Beth Day, Beulaville;

• Albert Kevin Sloan, Chinquapin, and Lorraine Melanie Couvillion, Harrells;

• Carlie Reigh Spears, Kinston, and Aiden Wesley Cole Tyndall, Kinston; • Aaron Micheal Mitchell, Richlands, and Jeanette Leeann Hughes, Richlands; • Nathan Curtis Lee Phillips, Beulaville, and Stacie Marie Wallace, Beulaville; • Joseph Tyler Swinson, Calypso, and Carolyn Ann

• Kenneth Jouseth Bustillo Velasquez, Turkey, and Sharol Sanchez Perez, Magnolia; • Wadell Antonio Goodman, Hope Mills, and Dianna Princess Huffin, Wallace; • Ivey Roy Knowles Jr., Rose Hill, and Patricia Leigh Teachey, Wallace.

The Battle of Rockfish celebration will be held at the Battle of Rockfish Monument with guest speaker Dennis Harper. Following the event there will be a light lunch at the Wallace Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

U.S. 11 and U.S. 117, Wallace

WALLACE from page A1 torney’s Office to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. Based on that review, officials determined that no criminal charges would be filed in connection with the incident.

The Fourth of July fireworks at the Moose Lodge is an annual event that features other family-friendly activities before the fireworks display.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

Growing with North Carolina agriculture Decades of work in business and public service have given one leader a front-row seat to the industry’s evolution.

“Without the hog and poultry industry, I’m not sure what Eastern North Carolina would look like.”

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

Jeffery Turner

JEFFERY TURNER has lived and worked in three counties in southeastern North Carolina, but was never far from where he was born in Duplin County. Despite spending time in Jones and Lenoir counties, he never ventured much more than five miles from any of the homes he grew up in or eventually lived in.

When Turner was starting what was known in those days as junior high school, his family moved a mile down the road to what ended up being Jones County. After graduating high school, he ended up majoring in agriculture business and accounting in college.

He went to work for a company in the farm supply business.

Now married, he eventually decided it was time to strike out on his own.

“My wife and I, we mortgaged everything we had, and then some,” Turner said in an interview with Duplin Journal.

With those funds, he went into the insurance business.

Turner also took an interest in politics and made a little North Carolina history when he became the youngest person in the state to be elected mayor of a town. That was in Pink Hill.

With his interest in politics in the state, he crossed paths with Wendell Murphy. In 1987, the state senator representing Lenoir, Jones and Duplin counties, Harold Harrison, decided to run for N.C. Lieutenant Governor. Those three counties

approached Turner and suggested they build farms together as Murphy Family Ventures began to expand their operations. Then, Murphy came to him with another offer.

“In 1995, Wendell approached me and asked if I would consider coming on board with Murphy Farms. He was looking at a succession plan and had me in mind,” Turner said. “So, in 1996, I sold my insurance businesses and came to work for the company.”

He is now the company’s chief operating officer.

Turner’s work still takes him before members of the General Assembly to consistently remind those from more urban areas that agriculture is the state’s largest industry.

“That helps to start building bridges to help the more urban members understand how important agriculture is to rural North Carolina, and the entire state,” he said.

Turner said as fewer people enter farming today, Murphy Farms wants to maintain agriculture’s importance for the future.

“Wendell’s son, ‘Dell’ Murphy Jr., who started Murphy Family Ventures, and I share the same desire to hand something to the next generation and keep it a viable operating business, not only for our own kids, but [also for] all those contract growers that have been associated with this business for the last 30 years or so,” Turner said.

COURTESY MURPHY FAMILY VENTURES

Jeffery Turner, Left, pictured with Wendell Murphy at a recent agricultural event. all covered areas where Turner had lived and worked, so he was encouraged to run for that seat in the State Senate. There was just one problem. Wendell Murphy had decided to run for that same seat, meaning he would not be able to help Turner in his run for the office.

After talking with Wendell Murphy, Turner decided he could still be actively involved in politics in the state without seeking that office. And involved he has been. Turner was chosen to serve on the North Carolina Board of Agriculture over 33 years ago, meaning he made state history again by being the longest-serving member

of that board.

Between the farmers he served with his insurance business and his role on the Board of Agriculture, Turner has had a front-row seat to changes in the farming world for over a quarter of a century.

“Every generation gets one more removed from farming,” he said. “I think about growing up around Pink Hill. We had two car dealerships and we had two tractor dealerships. Farmers were the absolute backbone of the rural economy.”

Turner said his connection to farmers through his insurance business and serving on the Board of Agriculture in-

spired him to encourage farmers to diversify their income as much as possible. He had seen the shift in the state beginning with tobacco that for years had been king.

“Over time you watch tobacco start to fade away and I was a big proponent of cotton coming back,” he said. “We could offer another alternative crop to corn or soybeans, or even tobacco.”

Turner said he also saw what the poultry and hog industry had to offer.

“Without the hog and poultry industry, I’m not sure what Eastern North Carolina would look like,” he added.

Eventually, Wendell Murphy

Faison moves to curb engine brake noise Following the success of the town’s 250th anniversary event, commissioners approved funding for a 2027 festival

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal FAISON — The Faison Board of Commissioners voted on July 1 to ban the use of engine brakes through town following a public discussion with residents who said the noise has become a persistent problem.

Executive Administrator Jimmy Tyndall said it would be enforced just like speed limits are.

“We have speed limit signs and without a sign they can’t enforce it. Without a sign, nothing happens,” Tyndall said. One resident from Main Street pointed out that enforcement could be better maintained if law enforcement officers “just sat on Main Street instead of the old Piggly Wiggly parking lot.”

Signs warning drivers will

be posted in four places along the main routes through town.

Derek Bell, another Faison resident, invited everyone to a town hall discussion about the wood pellet industry.

“State decision makers and community leaders will be in one room. It’s a free event and an opportunity for real solutions for North Carolina,” Bell said. The event takes place Friday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 200 Northeast Blvd. in Clinton. Both residents and board members expressed interest in attending.

Mayor Billy Ward took note of Anne Letchworth’s last day before retirement and thanked her for over nine years of service to the town.

The board reviewed financial reports and approved three budget amendments to “get everything caught up and balanced for the close of the fiscal year.

The board approved adding deputy tax collector duties to Mandy Taylor’s responsibilities. They also approved closing their PNC credit cards and opening five new lines of cred-

“We have speed limit signs and without a sign they can’t enforce it.

Without a sign, nothing happens.”

Jimmy Tyndall it at Southern Bank instead.

Moving the accounts to Southern Bank streamlines operations because the rest of the town’s accounts are already there. The credit lines approved were $2,500 to Mandy Taylor, $2,500 to Jimmy Tyndall, and $1,000 each to Carmen Gonzalez, Billy Ward and Matthew Scott.

Mayor Ward gave an update concerning the Parks and Recreation after-school program.

“Matt is testing for his CDL tomorrow and Jimmy is already finished and licensed.

We have one bus ready to go, and it was at the 250th event,” Ward said.

The board approved hiring Melany Sanchez part-time for

Parks and Recreation at $12 an hour. The board also approved accepting 79.33 hours of accrued sick time for Carmen Gonzalez.

The board discussed property taxes on land exchanged with the Cottles. The property has been in the town’s possession since 2006 as part of the water plant, but it needs a signature to finalize ownership. A certified letter has been sent to the party of interest, and the board approved assuming responsibility for paying applicable taxes for 2025 and all taxes going forward. The board also approved a tax write off for Edward Hill and tax write-off for Randy Jordan and Yavonne Robinson Williams.

The board discussed the Thornton mural that Heather Williams is currently working on for the center of the old depot across from town hall. The artist offered to repaint the other existing murals as well, and the board approved taking them down and delivering them to her to do the work over the summer.

The board discussed the

overall success of the 250th celebration and how many people have requested it become an annual event.

“We had thousands of people come out to that field, and I’ve not seen an event do that since I’ve been here,” Tyndall said.

“We need to do something to keep this town moving forward,” Commissioner Carolyn Kenyon said.

“F.I.G. does a lot for us and will help us with this, but this will be our one big event that the town puts off,” Ward said.

The board discussed the value and financial risk of the event, but determined it was worth it for the overall community engagement.

“Yes it is a risk, but it is a risk that paid off,” Tyndall said. The board decided to approve appropriating $45,000 to make the event happen in 2027, and they plan to make room for it in the budget going forward. Before the meeting adjourned, Ward mentioned the ghost walk and house tours that F.I.G. is working on.

“If you haven’t seen it yet, you should see what they have accomplished at the museum,” Commissioner Christy Allen said. “It may be a small area, but it is really something to be proud of.”

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | MARC DION

The fall of Vicksburg

That’s all the celebrating and decorating we’ll do because America is too sad this year, and the future is too frightening.

WHEN I WAS 19, I knew a much older man who’d grown up in 1930s Alabama.

“We didn’t celebrate the Fourth of July,” he told me. “For us, it was the day Vicksburg fell.”

Vicksburg, Mississippi, fell to Union troops on July 4, 1863. The Confederates surrendered, as was their habit. Long memories still mourn the Lost Cause of Black backs whipped bloody.

So how am I, a resident of Rhode Island, supposed to celebrate the Fourth of July this year?

When I was maybe 8 years old, fireworks were illegal in Massachusetts, but my father, a bartender who invariably “knew a guy,” brought home a box of sparklers for me.

The sparkler is the lowest form of firework.

It doesn’t blow up, it doesn’t make a loud noise and it doesn’t go up in the air. It’s a long wire, the top half of which is coated with some sort of chemical mix that throws off showers of silver sparks when it’s lit. You hold the sparkler by the uncoated bottom half. Those kids who hold the sparkler by the burning top half don’t do it for long.

I would use the sparklers on the top step of the three steps that went down from the kitchen door of our rented house in Taunton, Massachusetts, under the supervision of my father.

I remember the metallic brightness of the sparks against the dark sky, and my father’s deep voice.

“Be careful,” he’d say. “Don’t hold it too

close to you.”

I’ve always held things too close, and that’s true of both my memories and America.

I don’t hate America. I love America. What I hate is our gradual weakening, our string of lost or inconclusive wars, our blustering, Jesus-pimping leadership. We crow endlessly about this being “the greatest country in the world,” but the highway bridges are rotting, we don’t have enough technical skill to reline a pool and we’re pushing hard to regain the use of every vile term we’ve ever used to describe nonwhites and women.

“If you don’t like it here, why don’t you move to Iran?” I’m asked.

I can’t. I can’t go anywhere else. My ethnic heritage is so jumbled that I can only call this country my own because America is where they made a new people from French and Irish and Scottish and English, which is what I am “by blood” if you think blood sings in different languages.

Maybe 2 miles from our house, my uncle Kendall’s name is engraved on the town honor roll. He served in World War II and the Korean War. The honor roll is granite, and it’s dead. Kendall is dead. When he came back from his wars, he pumped gas for the rest of his working life.

I’ve touched his name where it’s cut into the stone.

It’s not as though there are no Fourth of July celebrations taking place near me, either.

The worse the country gets, the bigger and

tackier the patriotic celebrations get. If we fight a draw with Iran, next Fourth of July, there will be a pro wrestling show at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The flags keep getting bigger, too. In my neighborhood, there are people flying flags bigger than the one they fly outside the post office.

Rhode Island opted out of the Great American State Fair, as did most of the American population. Not even a speech from our rapidly failing president could save that disaster.

My wife Deborah was in charge of our yard decorations for the Fourth of July. She put out a flowered flag with a peace sign in the middle. It’s a small flag, close to the ground, and it flutters from a small iron stake driven into the lawn. It probably stands 2 feet high, and on either side, there are small American flags on skinny sticks.

It’s a modest display, is what it is, a little splash of peace and patriotism next to the rhododendron bush.

I’m already starting to feel protective of the little display. I don’t want it to feel bullied by the big flags that have their own tall poles.

That’s all the celebrating and decorating we’ll do because America is too sad this year, and the future is too frightening.

Dion’s latest book, a collection of his best columns, is called “Mean Old Liberal.”

(Copyright 2026 creators.com)

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

The United States has always been at war

Centuries before the modern state of Israel existed or any American military interventions in the Middle East, Jefferson was confronted with Islamic supremacy.

ONE OF THE MOST popular complaints of the younger Americans is that the United States has been bogged down in endless war and interventionism virtually their entire lifetimes.

Welcome to history. As much as we may not like it, the United States has engaged in conflict and meddling more or less since its inception.

The U.S. was born in war. It expanded through war. It freed its slaves through war. It grew into a superpower through war. And until utopia exists, it’s exceedingly likely we will need to clash with those who threaten our prestige and power.

Indeed, you can look at the parallels between today’s war against the Iranian terrorist regime and our very first foreign conflict to understand why.

From the founding, the Islamic states in Algiers, Tripoli and Tunis in North Africa were capturing American ships, demanding tolls and taking hostages. Without the protection of the British Royal Navy, President George Washington felt compelled to pay off the emirs. President John Adams was even more susceptible to blackmail, appeasing the Islamic rulers with ships, weaponry, ammunition and annual sums — let’s call them “pallets” — of gold and silver.

The Barbary States took the bounty, strung the U.S. along in negotiations, ultimately ignored the treaties they did sign and continued to take captives, murder Americans and disrupt trade.

After winning the White House in 1801, Thomas Jefferson halted the payoffs. His justifications for fighting the Barbary “pirates” — a historical mischaracterization that understates the importance of the Islamic sultans who had been raiding coastal towns and ships in the Mediterranean and Atlantic for two centuries, grabbing over a million

European slaves — were more than just narrow trading interests.

When serving as ambassador in Britain in 1785, Jefferson had met with Tripoli’s representative Abdul Rahman Adja and asked him why the Barbary States were targeting Americans who had shown them no hostility.

Jefferson, in a letter co-written by Adams, described Adja’s response in a letter to John Jay. “The Ambassador answered us that it was founded on the Laws of their Prophet, that it was written in their Koran, that all nations who should not have acknowledged their authority were sinners, that it was their right and duty to make war upon them wherever they could be found, and to make slaves of all they could take as Prisoners, and that every Mussulman (Muslim) who should be slain in battle was sure to go to Paradise,” Jefferson wrote.

Sounds familiar. Centuries before the modern state of Israel existed or any American military interventions in the Middle East, Jefferson was confronted with Islamic supremacy. Paying tributes to these “barbarians,” Jefferson later argued, not only rewarded aggression and subverted America’s standing but was in direct conflict with the ideals of the new nation.

When Jefferson congratulated the Marines on their victory against the Algerians, it wasn’t merely for valiantly fighting the enemy but defeating those who “trample on the sacred faith of treaties, on the rights and laws of human nature.”

President James Madison also sent another naval force to Algiers in 1815 to subdue the Islamic corsairs.

Yet, in the imagination of contemporary isolationists, early American foreign entanglements were only taken on for immediate national interests, stripped of any idealism. This simply isn’t so.

And every subsequent generation saw war, as well. Initially, these were conflicts of Western expansion. Soon we were involved in conflicts around the world.

The Left and isolationist Right are perturbed by our interference with Venezuelan and Cuban sovereignty. But American history is littered with instances of us meddling in places including Haiti, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Panama, El Salvador and Cuba, again, to name a few.

“Gunboat diplomacy” was not predominantly deployed to uphold the Monroe Doctrine and eject European powers from the Western Hemisphere, but rather to intimidate and quash domestic movements that threatened American influence.

By 1852, President Millard Fillmore famously dispatched Commodore Matthew Perry to Japan to end that nation’s isolationist policies and open trade by force, if needed.

President Ulysses Grant sent another military expedition to Korea in 1871 to do the same.

President Grover Cleveland sent the Navy to Samoa to protect American commercial interests from the Germans and British.

None of those nations threatened American sovereignty.

Some of these conflicts were more moral than others. Some backfired. Some were unnecessary tragedies. Some made the world safer. The U.S. has kept Europe free of allencompassing war since 1945. Neither war nor intervention should ever be taken on lightly. The notion, however, that Americans are living through some uniquely bellicose or interventionist era is debunked by even a cursory reading of history.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 creators.com)

A5

Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

A mission built on service, compassion Charity Mission Center has become a hub for disaster recovery, food programs and volunteer ministry

“During the eight years after Hurricane Florence, we’ve rebuilt about 525 homes in Duplin County alone.”

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal WINSTON CHURCHILL once said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Giving has definitely been the work of Charity Mission Center in Rose Hill since 2018.

Charity Mission Center, with its home in the former Charity Middle School, was founded after Hurricane Florence devastated parts of southeastern North Carolina with record flooding leaving many people with no livable home to return to after the storm passed.

That’s when Baptists on Missions, the volunteers who are regularly seen in yellow shirts offering help after a disaster, put the center into operation and it has been serving people in this part of the state ever since, building or rebuilding homes damaged by hurricanes or flooding, as well as feeding many seniors and others in need of assistance. Baptists on Mission purchased the school from Duplin County Schools.

According to Tammy Weeks, who is the mission and ministry director for the Eastern Baptist Association and serves as co-site director for the Chari-

Tammy Weeks

COURTESY CHARITY MISSION CENTER

Volunteers pack food boxes during a service day at Charity Mission Center. The boxes are provided to seniors and others in need across four counties. ty Mission Center with her husband, Richard, the number of people who have been helped through the ministry is impressively high.

“During the eight years after Hurricane Florence, we’ve rebuilt about 525 homes in Duplin County alone,” Weeks told Duplin Journal, adding that they built 31 new homes to replace

houses that could not be rebuilt.

Charity Mission Center becomes a central hub in the efforts to serve. With the ability to house 200 volunteers in the building, volunteers come from all over the country to serve when needed, according to Weeks.

Rebuilding or replacing homes damaged by recent hur-

ricanes is not the only service taking place out of the center.

“We do other things like wheelchair ramps, the senior food box program, which is the supplemental food program through the Department of Agriculture,” Weeks said. “We pack food boxes that go out to four counties.”

In the summer, ministry ac-

tivity picks up thanks to youth, including a lot of college students, coming to Charity Mission Center. Weeks said they do yard work in the area and clean up for senior adults who otherwise may not have anyone to help them with that work.

Weeks and her husband have been involved with disaster recovery through the church since Hurricane Floyd struck eastern North Carolina in September 1999. Since Charity Mission Center opened, they have been even more involved.

“We haven’t lived in our home in eight years because we live in the facility,” she said. “It’s just a calling on our life to serve and to help mobilize people to get more involved in serving those that are in need.”

Most of the funding for Charity Mission Center comes from contributions from Baptist churches and individual donations. Participation in the ministry comes from a much larger number of churches involved across the United States, according to Weeks.

PHOTOS COURTESY CHARITY MISSION CENTER

Left, seniors volunteer during a food packing day at Charity Mission Center. Right, a team of six volunteers works on the construction of a new home through Charity Mission Center’s housing recovery ministry.

PLAN from page A1 organized. Multiple library assistant I positions were reclassified as library branch coordinators without changing pay grades, while a library assistant IV position became a library operations manager moving from Grade 53 to Grade 59.

Not every position moved upward. County documents show the salary floor for some law enforcement classifications decreased under the new pay structure. For deputies or jailers promoted into those classifications during fiscal year 2027, the minimum hourly rate associated with the new classification changed approximately $3 lower than the previous classification’s minimum rate. Management also used the new plan to eliminate several positions that had remained vacant for years.

“We’ve looked at the positions that are in Munas. Some of them have been vacant since 2019. Some of them have been vacant a couple of years,” said Hughes. “I would say this eliminates about 30 positions.”

Hughes explained that the county had roughly 100 vacant positions across various departments. Among those removed were three deputy II positions and a part-time water technician position. The restructuring also shifted leadership responsibilities within Health and Human Services.

Hughes explained that the department previously operated with both a director and a deputy director. As part of this transition, the deputy health and human services director position is being eliminated.

Simultaneously, the existing social services director posi-

tion was reclassified as a social services deputy director, with a pay grade adjustment from Grade 77 to Grade 74.

“Positions were eliminated based upon different factors: they had been vacant for over one year, some for seven years, the department director requested they be eliminated, or the position was determined to no longer be needed,” Hughes told Duplin Journal.

The classification plan follows several organizational changes approved by commissioners throughout 2026.

In February, the board transferred housekeeping and building maintenance employees from the Health Department and Department of Social Services to the Public Buildings Department. County records show those employees received pay increases ranging from

25% to 30%. During the same meeting, commissioners eliminated five positions as part of the county’s transition to privatized child support services.

Along with the transfer, the building maintenance position was reclassified to building maintenance custodian and upgraded from a Grade 54 to a Grade 56, while the lead housekeeper was changed to a housekeeper position and adjusted from a Grade 54 to a Grade 52.

Additional changes followed in March and April. Commissioners reclassified the EMS director position as EMS division chief, moved the county manager’s executive assistant position into finance as a purchasing coordinator moving from Grade 61 to Grade 63, reclassified the airport operations manager position as an airport technician dropping from

Grade 64 to Grade 58, created a new marketing director position to bring communications work in-house and added more than 10 grant-funded positions within the Health Department.

The classification plan also works alongside the county’s Employee Development and Educational Incentives Policy, which provides salary increases ranging from $1,500 for an associate degree to $6,000 for a doctorate for qualifying employees across all departments.

“This Classification and Pay Plan is a starting point, a baseline if you will, as the County did not have a consolidated document like this. Over the next several months, the Plan will be evaluated to explore how the classifications relate to one another, as well as to surrounding counties,” said Hughes.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

Annual Independence Celebration brings community together Hundreds turned out July 1 for the annual Independence Celebration at Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church. The family-oriented event included plenty of food, as well as water slides, a bouncy house, a cornhole tournament and a new attraction — a foam cannon that was a hit with the children.

John Michaelson, the church’s youth and outreach pastor, told Duplin Journal the church has held the event annually for at least the past decade.

The evening ended with a fireworks display.

Video from the event is available on the Duplin Journal YouTube channel at youtube.com/@duplinjournal

PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Warsaw woman’s lifelong calling leads her back to nursing dream

Lakeisha Yelverton

Childhood experiences with compassionate nurses inspired Lakeisha Yelverton’s career in healthcare Duplin Journal Staff GROWING UP in Warsaw, Lakeisha Yelverton learned early that caring for others could make a lasting difference.

Her first experiences with healthcare did not come from working in a hospital, but from being a patient. Born prematurely, Yelverton and her identical twin sister, Felicia, spent much of their childhood in hospitals while receiving treatment for chronic asthma.

During those years, she noticed the nurses who cared for her and the compassion they showed during difficult moments.

“I vividly remember the nurses who took care of me,” Yelverton said.

Those memories planted a seed that would eventually become a lifelong calling.

Decades later, after building a career caring for patients, serving her church and raising a family, the Warsaw native is continuing the journey she began as a child. She is now pursuing her registered nursing degree at the University of Mount Olive — a step toward completing a dream she carried for most of her life.

The path to this point was not easy.

“He took care of home and gave me the time I needed to pursue my education.”

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE

Born and raised in Warsaw, Lakeisha Yelverton is a practical nurse at Womack Army Medical Center on Ft. Bragg in Fayetteville.

Yelverton first began exploring healthcare while in high school, earning a Health Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant certification. But at 17, she became a mother and shifted her focus toward providing for her young son while continuing to work toward her goals.

She spent eight years as a nursing assistant at O’Berry Center before earning her Practical Nursing degree from Wayne Community College in 2013. She passed the NCLEX

on her first attempt and began working as a licensed practical nurse.

Her career has taken her from long-term care to Womack Army Medical Center on Fort Bragg, where she continues to serve patients today.

But becoming a registered nurse remained an unfinished goal.

“With nursing still in my heart, I desired to go back,” Yelverton said.

In 2024, a coworker intro-

duced her to the University of Mount Olive’s nursing program. After years of balancing work, family and ministry, she decided to make one more attempt.

“I said to myself, if I don’t get in this time, I’m done. I won’t apply ever again,” she said.

When her acceptance letter arrived March 1, 2025, Yelverton knew she was beginning a new chapter.

“It felt like life had come full circle,” she said.

Outside the classroom, Yelverton continues serving others through her career and ministry. She is an ordained elder and pastor of Destined For Purpose Apostolic Ministries.

Her future goal is to specialize in mental health nursing, a field connected to her years of experience working at O’Berry Center.

Throughout her career, Yelverton has received several honors, including the Florence Nightingale “I Care” Award, the Defense Health Agency Team Excellence Award and the 2022 ACHI Magazine Woman of Inspiration Award.

She credits her husband, Ivory, as one of her greatest supporters, saying he helped make it possible for her to return to school while balancing the demands of daily life.

“He has been my greatest supporter and biggest cheerleader,” she said. “He took care of home and gave me the time I needed to pursue my education.”

Now, after decades of caring for others, Yelverton is working toward the credential she first dreamed about as a young girl in Warsaw.

Her message to others who may have put their goals on hold is one she has lived herself.

“Never give up, don’t give in and don’t give out,” she said.

“It’s never too late to achieve your heart’s desire or complete your goals in life. If I can do it … so can you.”

DUPLIN SPORTS FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK

Backfield Shakeup Panthers’ Davis, LeBlanc, McKinnie will be called upon in Wing T offense

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Football teams in Duplin County run the football and this fall the oddity will be that all four will be replacing runners who put up legendary career numbers in East Duplin’s Shawn Davis (3,840 53 TDs), Wallace-Rose Hill’s Jamarae Lamb (4,686, 47 TDs), North Duplin’s Carell Phillips (4,876, 70 TDs) and James Kenan’s Jeremiah Hall (3,210, 40 TDs).

Additionally, ED, WRH and JK will have new quarterbacks. ND, which threw the ball 10 times in 2025, returns second-year signal caller Keiz Brock.

Tigers go to Pearsall, Morrisey, Graham

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK grad Eli Avent is leading Post 511 in hitting.

Post 511 preps for seasondefining best-of-five series Beulaville squad faces Wilmington Post 10 Blue for a trip to the American Legion Sr. State Finals in Gastonia

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — The postseason comes quickly for American Legion baseball teams.

The run to a state tournament bid begins on July 9 as Beulaville Post 511 faces Wilmington Post 10 Blue in a first-round Area II best-of-five series.

The winner will be awarded one the league’s two spots in the American Legion Sr. State Tournament at

Sims Park in Gastonia on July 25-29.

The two squads were virtually tied for second place behind league winner Wilmington Post 10 Jr. Sharks (16-4). Tabor City Post 507 (4-8), Jacksonville Post 265 (2-5) and Castle Hayne Post 545 (1-9) were the bottom three clubs.

The playoff series will run on consecutive nights and barring rain will end on Sunday. The finals series is played the following week.

Nine teams, which include the host city, will play. The Southeast Regional Tournament takes place from Aug. 5-9 at Fraley Field in Cherryville. The winner of the eight regional tournaments advance to the American Legion World Series in Shelby, which will be Aug. 13-18.

Here’s a recap of action last week.

Post 10 Blue (Wilmington) 4, Post 511 (Beulaville) 2

Unlike the past, all four will be looking for a new No. 1 runner. JK’s Taulil (72-837, 11 TDs) enters as the back with the most yardage from a season ago.

He will get ample carries to show he can carry the load. Keyshawn Murray is the QB heading into the summer with Kentrall Morrisey and Jamari Graham runners who need the ball in their hands.

But Graham was involved in a vehicle accident last week and likely won’t be able to play this fall and likely won’t be available until Week 3 (Sept. 11 vs. East Duplin).

Sophomores Jemarion Dudley and Zavion Woodard and freshmen Sherrod King and Kingston Dunn will be looking for handoffs from Murray and holes from a new Tiger line anchored by veteran tackle Alex Vasquez and promising newcomer Torrance McClain, guards Mason Garner and Lee McRae and center Gavin Garner.

The Blue gang jumped to a 3-0 first-inning leads and held on during a game in which they outhit Beulaville 6-5.

Wilmington’s third, fourth and fifth hitters in the order each stroked a single and scored in the opening frame.

Singles turned into runs for Gavin Holmes and Breaden Barnett in the second and fourth innings as the lead was trimmed to 3-2 thanks to RBIs by Eli Avent and Blayden

In Beulaville the best news is that Noah LeBlanc is ready to rumble. The former Richlands RB ran for 887 yards and caught six passes for 75 yards as a sophomore but torn his ACL just before the start of football last summer shortly before arriving at East Duplin.

The Panthers also lost second-leading rusher Aaron Hall (919 yards, 10 TDs), but Battle Holley, head coach and offensive coordinator of the Wing T, will have a number of options.

See POST 511, page B2

See NOTEBOOK, page B3

Panthers Davis, LeBlanc, McKinnie will be called upon

Ten Duplin County players nab all-state honors in softball Panthers put four on NC Coaches Association’s 4A list, Rebels land three in 2A, Bulldogs two in 3A

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — Nine all-county first-team players were among the 10 players from Duplin that were given all-state status by the North Carolina Softball Coaches Association.

East Duplin garnered five spots in 4A, North Duplin three in 2A and Wallace-Rose Hill two in 3A. James Kenan did not nominate a player, though fel-

low all-Duplin Tigers Jourdan Joe, Shylah Sloan and Kenadi Gideons would have likely made the cut in 3A. Lilly Fulghum, who was named Ms. Softball in Duplin a week ago, and WRH’s Jansley Page, were the lone all-state players to repeat.

They were joined by ND’s Gracie Higginbotham and Wyllow Holmes, ED’s Ava Noble, Zoe Turner, Sophia Jones, Ansley Hunter and Leighton Davis and WRH’s Mattie Gavin.

Fulghum (Charlotte University) guided ND to the 2A finals last spring and as a fouryear starter was a key player in the Rebels’ run to the 1A finals in 2022.

She led Duplin in hitting (.607), extra-base hits (21), RBI’s (41) and was second in runs (39) and walks (17), while going 7-1 with a 2.25 ERA in the circle.

Fulghum was also a firstteam player in volleyball and basketball and was the Female Athlete of the Year in Duplin County.

Last spring, Higginbotham’s sister Addy was a first-team allstate selection. Gracie, a freshman, likewise got votes from coaches because of her bat and arm.

She was second in hitting (.574) and runs (38), punching 14 extra-base efforts, first in See SOFTBALL, page B3

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED sophomore Sophia Jones hit .426 and drove in 25 runs, while going 6-2 in the circle.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

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EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Beulaville Post 511 baseball Carson Tew made his leadership and defensive skills known immediately after putting on the Beulaville Post 511 uniform.

His bat has gotten hotter than the weather as the American Legion Area II playoffs begin this week.

Tew, who led Midway (20-9) to a berth in the 3A East Region final, is attempting to put Post 511 into the State Tournament for the second time in as many summers.

The shortstop/third baseman is hitting .327 and has spearheaded a defense that has complemented Beulaville’s strong and deep pitching staff.

Tew hit .523 in the spring and was an all-state 3A player by the North Carolina Baseball Coaches Association. He bashed eight doubles, six triples, a homerun and 20 RBIs as the Raiders came within a win of advancing to the state finals, falling to Whiteville in a three-game series.

Yet his biggest prep state might that he scored 49 times, which ranked him third in the state behind Cole Blevins of West Rowan and Gunner Alm of Polk County (50 each).

Tew will play for the University of Mount Olive in the fall.

Blevin played in two more games and Alm more game than Tew.

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WARSAW — Lee Sutton had to feel the movement to fully experience football at his alma mater.

Sutton, who played baseball and basketball at James Kenan, got pulled into gridiron madness shortly after graduating from Methodist University.

His mentoring was under John Bert Avent, who was the defensive coordinator at JK that past two seasons when the Tigers had identical 12-2 campaigns. Avent also called the shots when JK won a state title under his brother Ken Jr. The 2019 Tiger grad is on his own now, though he’ll have a lot of help on the sidelines and high atop the announcer’s booth.

He’s the new defensive coordinator as Avent is letting go of his duties after his twin sons Eli and Cal graduated in June.

He coached both sides of the ball his first two seasons and was Avent’s assistant the last two.

“John’s one of the best defensive coaches and it’s been so great to work under him,” said Sutton, whose father Chuck is in the JK Athletic Hall of Fame and whose younger brother Will also played for the Tigers.

“I fell in love with the community aspect of the community. My blood really flows on Friday nights.”

Sutton will likely have John Bert in the press box and Ken Avent atop of it and a few assistant coaches with replay monitors to feed him game information.

“That’s the thing, we all work together and off of each other,” Sutton said. “You can’t

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Lee Sutton has worked overtime that past four seasons to learn to coach the defense of a football team. have enough eyes.”

Football and football mixed when Sutton married Ken Avent’s daughter Allison, who also works at the school as a teacher’s aide.

As nearly everyone knows, Ken Avent captured two state titles at JK, while his father Ken Sr., has coached more seasons in Duplin County than anyone (his tenure was at North Duplin).

“I love to watch what he calls to defend teams,” said Pat Byrd, who is the OC at Richlands. “He’s so good and makes great adjustments. That’s not as easy as he makes it look.”

Sutton will have the same mission Avent had in the summer of 2025: Rebuild the defense following the loss of experienced, savvy and hardnosed defenders.

Avent did it following the loss of Mr. Football Hassan Kornegay, who led the state in tackles in 2024.

Post 511’s offense has found a way to score enough runs most games, though they talk over tragedy whenever it is needed.

POST 511 from page B1

Garner had just six baserunners the entire game.

That Post 511 had 11 hits, five walks and seven stole bases and didn’t score more runs was a question Beulaville had leaving the ballpark after a win.

Austin Clement struck out three and gave up the lone Garner hit to Easton Creech in the seventh.

Bridgen.

Post 10 got just one more run off hurler Cole Jarman during his third-to-sixth inning stint, and none in an inning off Holmes.

Colin Beddard struck out seven and gave up just one hit and one walk in five frames of work for the win.

Gage Howard had two hits in four plate appearances but was left stranded on the bases.

Post 511 (Beulaville) 8, Post 507 (Tabor City) 0

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He did so by putting a little bit of Kornegay into several of his defenders.

As a result, free safety David Zeleya, the Defensive Player of the Year, Cal Avent, Stedman McIver, Jaquez Smith, Zamarion Smith each tallied more than 110 tackles, while Jeremiah Hall, Taulil Pearsall, Chris Hill and Alex Vasquez combined for 237 takedowns as the Tigers swarmed to the ball.

Sutton, who has been JK’s head baseball coach for the past three seasons, though that sport isn’t producing enough talent to compete for a title, is ready for the challenge of defending the likes of East Duplin, Wallace-Rose Hill and Southern Nash.

But the new influx talent pool into the gridiron has had nearly everyone in the Warsaw-Kenansville-Magnolia area buzzing the past two seasons.

James Kenan graduate Eli Avent had three hits and scored twice, and Midway’s Carson Tew also rapped three hits and Jaxon Smith struck out nine while yielding four hits.

Beulaville scored four times in the fourth to cruise.

Cole Jarman singled, doubled, walked and scored a pair of runs, while Reed Davis pitched a hitless seventh, getting two hitters via strikeouts.

And it could have been worse as Post 511 stranded 12 runners on bases.

Post 511 Notebook PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Christian Wooten didn’t have a strong prep season but has shown his true colors this summer for Post 511.

Post 511 (Beulaville) 5, Post 232 (Garner) 1 Tew, Avent, Howard and Pridgen each had two hits as Post 511 scored twice in the third and three times in the fourth to top its Wake County foe.

Daniel Boyette, Mason Murphy and Jarman didn’t allow a hit in six innings and

Avent (.400) leads the team in hitting, though Henry Bass (.394), Howard (.390) and Jarman (.348) are not far behind.

Bridgen is at .338, Tew .327 Barnett .312 and Shawn Marshburn .267.

Smith has 35 strikeouts in 35 innings and a 3.08 ERA as the ace of the staff. Boyette and Jarman have each gone 13 frames apiece and combined for 19 whiffs. Christian Wooten has been the surprise of the summer on the hill. After having a less-than spectacular prep season he’s got an ERA of 1.80. ED’s Holmes and Silas Jarman have also contributed on the mound in a relief capacity.

B3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

NOTEBOOK from page B1 First though, he must decide if DJ Davis or Brayden Jones is his QB. Jones is the likely choice, if only because it puts him in a needed spot: the backfield.

Look for senior Keeshon McKinnie to make an impact as a wingback, though the Panthers want the Defensive MVP of the ECC last season to be a stud defender and kick returner.

Zachary Cruz, Darwin Bonilla, Hayes Lanier and Hatch Becker will get to audition behind a Panther line that is led center Brody Blizzard and tackles Everett Miller and Anderson Puac.

LeBlanc’s younger brother Josiah is waiting in the wings as a sophomore linebacker/running back.

Welcome to the RB Factory, Mr. Miller No one is giving WRH a chance this season.

My have the times changed for the winningest school in Duplin County in terms of wins and state championships.

That’s enough fodder to force head coach Kevin Motsinger to make foes eat their words.

The addition of transfer Jarrod Miller will help the Bulldogs on both sides of the ball.

Miller averaged 70 yards a game for Harrell Christian Academy (86-694), while scoring 11 times and making 13 tackles and one sack.

He galloped for 136 yards and a touchdown in a key win over Covenant Day and scored four times and had a season-high 185 yards in a 41=21 triumph over Hickory Grove Academy.

Sophomore Kayden Keith is a good fit at QB for WRH and running option include Adrian Glover, a 200-meter 3A sprint champion, Raquan McCrimmon, Logan Marks, and Khajyre Murphy. Underclassmen Kaleb Carr and Jayden Boney also want the ball tucked into their belly.

Jacob Hester, Jacoby Dixon and Jayden Clemmons could be factors on the O-line. Adrian Allen, the best defensive lineman in the ECC, returns to haunt offenses and opposing coordinators.

Rebels look for breakout performer The last time ND didn’t have a 1,000-yard runner was in 2018 and who will become the next one is anyone’s guess.

It could be returnee Jayden Pope (78-597, 6 TDs). Or possibly Messiah Cooper or Cole Grady, both excellent allaround athletes with speed, though both combined for six carries and 26 yards in 2025.

ND lost Vance Carter and Quan Stevens, but still has fullback Noa Quintanilla in its stable.

SOFTBALL from page B1 walks (19) and knocked in 16 runs hitting either leadoff or second in the order.

Higginbotham’s left arm carved out a 10-1 mark and 2.61 ERA. Classmate Holmes (.400, 34 runs, 15 RBIs) just missed making the all-county team, which was limited to 13 players.

She went 6 of 12 in the East Region finals versus Manteo but was just 1 of 11 in the 2A finals series against Roxbury Community as senior Marissa Bernal and Ady Spence joined Higginbotham and Fulghum in making big plays, even though the Rebels fell 2-1 in the best-of-three series at Duke University.

Roxboro’s UNCG recruit Karrie Obie was the East Player of the Year in 2A. South Lenoir’s Manteo’s Makena Gray was the East’s Pitcher of the Year.

Noble, Turner, Page earn high honors Noble, meanwhile, was as good as any elite player in the state, and was named 4A Player of the Year in the East.

The junior, who sat out her sophomore season with a knee injury, hit .568 with nine doubles, five triples, three HRs, 25 RBIs and 40 runs. She had a county-high 46 hits to lead the Panthers to 19 wins and into the fourth round of the state

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Clockwise from top left: Look for Noah LeBlanc to make an impact at ED after sitting out a season with a knee injury.

HCA hopes Jeremiah Davis continues to blossom into a superstar. Taulil Pearsall is the top returning RB in Duplin County. HCA transfer Jarrod Miller will make WRH a better football team on both sides of the ball.

It looks like a challenging season for head coach Hugh Martin, who lost a ton of seniors who were multi-year starters.

ND has engineered consecutive 10-win seasons and is 29-5 over its last three campaigns.

Phillips ran for more than 2,000 yards last fall. Martin might need that production number split between two or three runners this season.

The newly constructed seven-school ECC starts being heavy with its league opener against bitter rival Lakewood and ends with Hobbton, which is coached by former

playoffs.

The arm that led ED there was Turner (10-1, 2.81 ERA in 83 innings), who nabbed Pitcher of the Year honors.

Hunter (.403, 31 hits, 20 ruins, 14 RBIs) was a freshman surprise for ED, while Davis (.342), an excellent defensive third baseman, began the journey to peaking after a promising frosh season in 2025.

Sophomore Jones (.426, 28 RBIs) also came to the front after a solid freshman campaign.

Page, Gavin go out together Page is the best player to come from Teachey since speedster Angel Pearsall and pitcher and righty-hitting Haven Williams, who captured consecutive Ms. Softball titles in 2018 and 2019.

The shortstop who was a four-year starter who hit .484 and scored 25 times, leading WRH to a second-round upset of James Kenan in the 3A playoffs.

Teammate Gavin, who was the club’s catcher for the previous three seasons, hit .407.

She and classmate Page were also all-state, as per the NC Volleyball Coaches Association last fall after WRH advanced to the fourth round of the playoffs.

South Lenoir’s Makenzie Herring was the top player in 3A, while Midway’s Kyleigh Stonerock the Pitcher of the Year. Stonerock was one of five Raiders on the first team.

WRH OC Adam Scronce.

Crusaders’ Davis back on the block Harrells Christian Academy will likewise need to find a replacement for quarterback Reid Strickland, but the return of RBs Jeremiah Davis (1,143 yards, 14 TDs) and Demetrius Jones (383, 7 TDs) will be points of emphasis for head coach Clayton Hall, whose team went 9-3 last season.

A big season will be necessary from Davis in the absence of do-it-all wing back Dashaun

McKoy. Davis had five games with 147 or more yards and 191 yards and four scores catching the ball.

Hall, the longtime offensive coordinator, is 15-7 since taking over a month before the start of the season in 2024.

Wildcats need to make offensive changes Richlands’ running attack needs the most help, though.

The Wildcats ran the ball 199 times last season and got all of 349 yards from it.

That’s a paltry 1.8 yards per carry and not enough to keep defenses honest, even with a good passing plan.

Something has to change.

Graduating QB CJ DiBenedetto threw for 1,252 yards and 9 TDs and ran for a team-high 168 yards.

It might be impossible to go beyond last season’s 3-8 mark without major changes in the Wildcat offense.

Last season Richlands’ 12 TDs only led to wins over Southwest Onslow, Swansboro and Dixon, whose combined record was 10-22.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Clockwise from top left: ED’s Leighton Davis and Zoe Turner and ND’s Gracie Higginbotham and Wyllow Holmes were firsttime all-state selections.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

NOTICES NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF DUPLIN 26E000174-300 NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of CIRCIA ARROYO DE HECKROTH, late deceased of said Duplin County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 21, 2026, or this notice will be pled in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 10th day of June, 2026.

GLORIA ADRIANA ARROYO-DE MORENO Executor of the Estate of CIRCIA ARROYO DE HECKROTH C/O Brian M. Bullard, Attorney Bullard Law Firm, PLLC PO Box 1000 Faison, NC 28341 910-267-3151

NOTICE

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

Chase Briscoe (19) celebrates after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Eero 400 at Chicagoland Speedway.

Briscoe holds off Bell in NASCAR’s return to Chicagoland Speedway His sixth career win comes in NASCAR’s first race there since 2019

By Jay Cohen The Associated Press JOLIET, Ill. — Chase Briscoe was on an offseason bonding trip to the United Kingdom with crew chief James Small when the NASCAR driver discovered chocolate buttons, a popular British treat. He bought some online after he returned to the U.S., but he said it wasn’t the same.

Small purchased some on a return trip to the U.K., and he promised to share if Briscoe won on the crew chief’s birthday. That made Sunday night’s victory pretty sweet.

Briscoe held off Christopher Bell in NASCAR’s return to Chicagoland Speedway, racing to his first Cup Series win of the season. And Small delivered the chocolates to Briscoe moments after it was over.

“They were pretty dang good,” Briscoe said.

Briscoe was followed closely

by Bell in the final laps on the 1.5-mile oval about 50 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. But Bell was unable to run down his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate.

The 31-year-old Briscoe, an Indiana native, celebrated his sixth career win with a burnout before standing on his car and waving to the sellout crowd.

“This has been a place that I’ve always loved coming to, back when we used to, and I’ve missed it,” Briscoe said. “It’s always been one of my top-five tracks.”

It was Bell’s fourth run-

“This has been a place that I’ve always loved coming to, back when we used to.”

Chase Briscoe ner-up finish this season. He was wearing a splint on his arm as he continues his recovery after breaking his left wrist in a crash at Michigan on June 7.

“I think he’s handled that as well as you can handle it,” team owner Joe Gibbs said. “He’s got a burning desire to stay in there and win. I think he had, you know — he had a real good car tonight, too.”

Denny Hamlin, who started on the pole, was third. William Byron, who won two stages while leading a race-high 94 laps, and Alex Bowman rounded out the top five.

“I thought I was in control early on, even though I wasn’t leading,” Hamlin said. “I felt in control and probably got a little lazy on some restarts and things like that. Just taking for granted that I’ll just go up there and get it.”

NASCAR ran 19 Cup races in Joliet before pulling out after the 2019 season. It tried to build interest in the event in a crowded sports market, but the race struggled with attendance.

After racing on a street course in downtown Chicago each of the previous three years, NASCAR decided to go back to Chicagoland — eager to see how the Next Gen cars would do on the rough and bumpy asphalt at the facility.

Rain on Friday and Saturday caused some parking issues, but the racing was compelling.

Led by Briscoe, Bell and Hamlin, Toyota accounted for seven of the top 10 cars for the first time in a Cup Series race — continuing a strong season for the manufacturer.

“Yeah, Toyotas are fast,” Bell said.

Driving a “Space Jam”themed car in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Looney Tunes movie, Bubba Wallace was sixth in his No. 23 Toyota Camry. Wallace is part of the 23XI Racing team that is coowned by Michael Jordan, one of the stars of the 1996 movie.

Ryan Blaney was seventh in his seventh consecutive top-10 finish. Ty Gibbs, Corey Heim and Riley Herbst completed the top 10.

Tyler Reddick’s championship hopes were damaged by an oil leak with about 32 laps left in Stage 2. There was a long caution while Reddick’s 23XI Racing crew worked on his No. 45 Toyota in the garage, replacing the radiator because of a hole.

Reddick, who won the first three races of the season, finished 36th. He trails Hamlin by 44 points at the top of Cup standings after he was down by one going into the weekend.

Kyle Larson also had a rough day after qualifying second behind Hamlin. He was in third place when he spun out of Turn 4 on Lap 93. He drove his No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet into the wet infield grass and had to be pulled out of the mud.

Larson finished 34th, extending his winless drought to 43 races. He finished second in each of the previous two Cup races at Chicagoland.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO SELL MOTOR VEHICLE Pursuant to applicable North Carolina law, notice is hereby given that the following motor vehicle is being held by Johnny’s Towing and Recovery and will be sold to satisfy towing, storage, and any other fees that may occur associated the with vehicle. The owner, lienholders, and any other persons claiming an interest in the vehicle are hereby notified of the intended sale.

Vehicle Description: 2021 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCV1F10MA081927 Location of Vehicle: Johnny’s Towing and Recovery 717 NW Railroad Street Wallace, NC 28466 Date of Sale: July 22, 2026 at 10am

NOTICE North Carolina Duplin County Notice Having qualified as Executor of the estate of the late Mark Alan Price, this is to notify all people who have claims against his estate to present them to the undersigned Executor on or before September 18, 2026, or this notice or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

Theresa Walton 200 Hyde Park Dr. Goldsboro, NC 27530 Administrator of the Estate of Mark Alan Price, deceased.

6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 2026

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE NO. 26E000229-300 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator CTA of the estate of Malachi McNeal Southerland, Sr., deceased, late of Magnolia, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before the 25th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment.

This the 25 day of June, 2026.

Malachi M. Southerland, Jr. 13010 Chesdin Landing Drive Chesterfield, VA 23838

NOTICE ESTATE OF EDGAR TYLER, DECEASED FILE No. 00E000193-300 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Edgar Tyler, deceased, late of Duplin County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before September 25, 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.

Personal Representative: Vivian C. Tyler 308 Georgia Drive Raeford, North Carolina 28376 910-580-2531 Publication Dates: June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026 July 9, 2026 July 16, 2026

Kornegay Insurance Two Locations Pink Hill / Mount Olive 252.568.3911 / 919.658.6027 www.kornegayinsurance.com

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

Chase Briscoe (19) burns out after winning the NASCAR Cup Series race at Chicagoland Speedway.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

obituaries

SPONSORED BY QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

Jerry Reed Grady

Joyce Marie Lamb

Donald David Carr

Oct. 23, 1947 – July 2, 2026

Feb. 10, 1953 – June 27, 2026

April 21, 1953 – July 1, 2026

Jerry Reed Grady, 78, died Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Kenansville Rehabilitation and Health Care. He is survived by his wife Janice Brown Grady of Beulaville; daughter, Kerry Grady Beach and husband Timothy of Pink Hill; sister Brenda Alphin of La Grange; two grandchildren, Jered Grady, Rebecca Beach; and one great grandchild, Lucas Grady.

Joyce Marie Lamb, 73, of Pink Hill, NC, passed away June 27, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro, NC. Funeral service will be 3:00 pm Monday, July 6, 2026, at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw. Public viewing will be 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm (one hour prior to the service).

Mr. Donald David Carr, age 73, of Rose Hill, NC (Greenevers Community), passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, NC. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11:00 am at New Christian Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Hwy 11, Rose Hill, NC. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

Left to cherish his precious memories are his daughter, Kimberly W. Brown (Gary) of Wallace, NC; three sisters: Carolyn Carr-Walker (Ron) of Greensboro, NC, Sandra Carr Jackson (Caesar) and D. Annette Carr, both of Durham, NC; two brothers: Harold Carr and Dwight Carr (Kim), both of Rose Hill, NC; one grandchild, Irving Brown of Athens, Ohio; one uncle, Bobby Carr; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.

Margaret Bigford Squires. In addition to his parents and stepmother, Viola Phillips, he was preceded in death by brothers, Leon Squires and Norman Squires; stepbrothers, Clifford Reynolds and Dennis Davis; and stepsisters, Hattie Malpass and Joan Gore.

Thaddeus was a member of Haw Bluff Baptist Church, where he regularly attended while his health allowed.

He was a Millwright for Wright Chemical Corporation for over fifty years. Thaddeus was also a dedicated farmer who took great pride in tending the land he farmed and taking care of his livestock. For many years, Thaddeus would do welding jobs on the side.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Patricia Squires; twin daughters, Toni Ward (Mitchell) of Whiteville and Teri Ward (Shad) of Kelly;

son, Matthew Squires (Lisa) of Kelly; grandsons, Mitchell Ward Jr. of Whiteville, Jesse Smith (Amber), Payton Squires, and Mason Squires all of Kelly; granddaughters, Andrea Batten (Ethan) of Hallsboro and Nicole Bassett (Isaac) of Leland; great grandchildren, Alice Batten, Conner Smith and Maverick Smith; sister, Virginia Pridgen; brothers, Eddie Squires and Ray Squires (Mona); stepbrother, Darrel Davis; and many nieces and nephews.

Thaddeus was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend to many. He found great joy in working the land he loved, caring for his farm, tending hay fields, raising livestock, and planting corn and soybeans each season.

His dedication, hard work, and deep appreciation for rural life were evident in everything he did.

In addition to farming, Thaddeus

generously shared his welding skills with family and friends for many years, always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered for his kindness, strong work ethic, generous spirit, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him.

The family would like to especially thank Lower Cape Fear LifeCare staff for their comfort and care and Dr Jeffery Kornegay for all his continuous excellent care that he provided for Thaddeus. The family would also like to thank a very special friend, Katie Moore of Currie for the continuous gesture of kindness throughout the past few months.

The graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Squires Cemetery on Natmore Road, Kelly with family receiving friends at 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. The Rev. Jacob Lewis and The Rev. Walter Hayes will conduct the service.

and talkative baby with a sassy personality as early as nine months.

As the daughter of military parents, traveling was part of Ashley’s life. That travel enhanced her love for language, her desire to be a linguist, her love for reading, her love for family, and her love for people and possibilities. While her family was stationed in Columbus, Georgia, Ashley professed her life to Christ. She was baptized

by Reverend Marcus J Gibson at Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church. As a member, she attended Sunday school, weekly Bible study, sang in the youth choir, and served on the youth usher ministry.

At a very early age, it was apparent that Ashley loved kids.

There was no baby she could pass that she didn’t want to pick up, nourish and love. She worked in numerous childcare facilities

in Texas and Georgia. Ashley also had a love for books and reading. She’d sit in a corner and read a novel 300 pages in just a few hours. Her playtime was hours spent in the library or the bookstore just reading. It was her heaven on earth.

Ashley was a 2013 graduate of Cole High in San Antonio, and from there she pursued higher education at San Antonio College, where she earned her associate’s degree. Ashley was a deep thinker. She was the only one who could challenge Daddy Rogers in Jeopardy with all her useless knowledge. She loved hair and nails, fashion, and Comic-Con, and she’d say “Hi” every time she passed you in the house. She loved her Grammie, and she loved her family.

In 2021, Ashley moved to North Carolina. She was so excited because being in North Carolina was her opportunity to

be close to, connect with, and get to know her cousins, the family she so longed to know. While in North Carolina, Ashley went to school to become a Board Certified Nail Technician. She worked with Wayne County, and her greatest accomplishment was her tenure at Books-aMillion. To most, it was a job, but to her, BAM was family. She was loyal and loved the service she provided.

Ashley was preceded in death by her Grandparents: Jessie and Lula Bell Warren; Henry and Thalia Colvin; Edward Rogers, Sr.; Uncles: Jesse Jr, Bobby and Terry Warren. Memories of Ashley will always be cherished by those who remain on this side of heaven.

Parents: Alfred Warren, Andrea Rogers (Edward); Godmother: Brenda Borrego; Siblings: Quinte’ Warren (Geneva), April Rogers, Alijah Rogers; a host of cousins, family and friends.

Thaddeus Squires May 14, 1943 – June 28, 2026 Thaddeus entered into the presence of the Lord Sunday, June 28, 2026, at his home with his loving family surrounding him.

He was born May 14, 1943, in Bladen County, the son of Cecil Gladston Squires and

Ashley Warren April 9, 1995 – June 29, 2026 Goldsboro- “Sometimes God picks a flower that’s still in full bloom, sometimes the flower that is chosen, we feel He’s picked too soon”. Ashley Alexzaundrea Warren was born on April 9, 1995, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to Alfred Lee Warren and Andrea Elieen Rogers. She was a happy

Sharon Mims Aug. 13, 1955 – June 30, 2026 Ms. Sharon Denise Freeman Mims, age 70, of Beulaville, NC, passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, NC. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 10:00 am to 10:45 am at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel in Rose Hill, NC, immediately followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am.

Left to cherish her precious memories are two sisters: Deborah Watkins of Raleigh, NC and Sandra Farrior of Rose Hill, NC; one brother, Robert T. Freeman (Christine) of Quantico, VA; one aunt, Ernestine Hankins of Virginia Beach, VA; and three uncles: Ray Mann, Felton Mann and Melvin Manna; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss her dearly.

Carolyn Moore Howard Oct. 10, 1943 – June 30, 2026 Carolyn Moore Howard, 82, of Wallace, North Carolina, passed peacefully to her eternal rest on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at ECU Health Duplin Hospital following an extensive stroke.

Born on October 10, 1943, in Duplin County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Thomas William and Essie Browder Moore. Preceding her in death was her beloved husband of 47 years, Graham Howard; her daughter, Cynthia Futrell Lewis; and her sister, Doris Moore Frederick.

Mrs. Howard was a long time member of Wallace First Assembly of God. She leaves behind her children: Graham Devern Howard, Jr. and wife Michelle of Wallace, Charlene Padgette and husband Vick of Wallace, Billy Devern Howard and wife Darlene of Magnolia, Tina Howard Bain of Burgaw, Ricky Dean Howard of Pink Hill, and Lonnie Graham Howard and wife Johnna of Willard. Carolyn was blessed with 22 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members and friends who cherished her dearly.

A loving mother and caring grandmother, Carolyn held her family close to her heart. She enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as shopping, cooking, and river outings. Being a devoted follower of Jesus, she had a compassionate heart and humble spirit, believing deeply in the power of prayer. She was a fervent prayer warrior for others. Carolyn dearly loved her church family and was loved in return. More than anything, she cherished her love for her husband Graham and the relationship they had. Carolyn will surely be missed and never forgotten.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Wallace First Assembly Church, officiated by Reverend Leo Bracken and Mrs. Linda Parker.

The family will welcome friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church, one hour prior to the service, and also at the home of Charlene and Vick Padgette in Wallace.

Burial will follow at Wells Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery, on NC Hwy 41, Wallace, NC. Casket bearers will be Austin Howard, Payton Teachey, Jonathan Howard, Jason Howard, Phillip Howard and James Parker, Jr. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent in memory of Carolyn Howard to Wallace Gardens, PO Box 566, Wallace, NC 28466.

Edna Dawson Viney Nov. 7, 1928 – July 4, 2026

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@duplinjournal.com | Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

Goldsboro- It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Ms. Edna Dawson Viney, age 70, who entered into eternal rest on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, North Carolina.

The arrangements are currently incomplete at this time. We extend our deepest condolences to the Viney family, and please keep them in your prayers during their time of bereavement.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, July 9, 2026

Answering the call to care for rural North Carolina

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE

Davis Byrd a future veterinarian, holds a goat at the University of Mount Olive student farm.

A future veterinarian from Beautancus plans to return to rural North Carolina to serve livestock producers

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal MOUNT OLIVE – As fewer veterinarians choose to work in rural communities, Davis Byrd hopes to return home and fill a growing need in eastern North Carolina.

The Beautancus native grew up on his family’s farm in rural Wayne County, where caring for cows, horses, pigs and chickens was part of everyday life.

Those early experiences not only sparked his interest in veterinary medicine but also showed him how important veterinarians are to the families whose livelihoods depend on healthy livestock.

This fall, Byrd will take the next step toward meeting that need when he begins classes at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Byrd, who graduated in May from the University of Mount Olive, earned a degree in Veterinary Bioscience with a minor in Chemistry, after spending four years preparing for a career serving agricultural communities like the one that raised him.

“I have always loved animals and have a heart for them, especially large animals,” Byrd said.

“Being raised on a farm is what truly shaped my interest in veterinary medicine.”

Growing up, agriculture was woven into everyday life. The health of the family’s animals affected more than the farm itself — it affected the people who cared for them and depended on them. Byrd said those experiences helped him understand the connection between veterinary medicine and rural communities long before he ever considered applying to veterinary school.

Byrd chose the UMO because it allowed him to remain close to home while enrolling in a respected animal science program. His education extended well beyond the classroom. Byrd spent countless hours at the student farm, where he worked directly with a variety of animals while developing the practical skills he believes every veterinarian needs.

“Some of the most impactful experiences I have had have

“Being raised on a farm is what truly shaped my interest in veterinary medicine.”

Davis Byrd been at UMO’s student farm,” Byrd explained. “I have had the opportunity to work hands-on with a variety of animals, developing practical skills and growing in knowledge, patience, and critical thinking.”

Those hands-on experiences confirmed that he had chosen the right profession. Just as important were the mentors who helped guide him. Byrd credits veterinarians Harrison Dudley, Mark Sasser, Owen Martin and University of Mount Olive faculty member Will Farmer with challenging him academically while modeling the kind of veterinarian he hopes to become.

“Their mentorship has given me a model to strive for,” Byrd said. “They have encouraged me to work hard and pursue excellence.”

Even with strong academic preparation, acceptance into veterinary school was far from guaranteed. Byrd said the waiting period tested both his patience and his faith.

“The anxiety of waiting periods was tough at times, but I have learned to trust that the Lord will place me exactly where I am supposed to be,” Byrd said.

Byrd says his goal is to return to eastern North Carolina, establish a private practice and serve livestock producers and rural families throughout Duplin County and neighboring communities.

“I want to pour back into my community,” he said. “Being from a rural area, there is a great need for veterinarians, especially those who specialize in large animals.”

“I want to be someone who provides compassionate, high-quality care while supporting the farming communities that are so important to our region,” Byrd said.

For Byrd, veterinary medicine is a way to give back to the place that shaped him.

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