Issuu

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

James Sprunt Community College president resigns Shannon L. Hair has voluntarily resigned as president of James Sprunt Community College. According to official documents, Hair’s resignation was made pursuant to an agreement with the college. Jeff Taylor will continue serving as acting president during the leadership transition.

Early voting sites announced Duplin County voters can cast ballots early ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. Early voting runs Oct. 15-31 at Ed Emory Auditorium at 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville and American Legion Post 156 at 529 E. Southerland St. in Wallace. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 9 at 5 p.m., and the deadline to request an absentee-by-mail ballot is Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Duplin County Board of Elections at 910-296-2170.

Heart’s Hope to hold first gala Heart’s Hope Crisis Pregnancy Center will hold its first annual gala Thursday at River Landing, featuring keynote speaker Kellie Brooks, special guest Jay Bucksot and live music from Dear MariBella. Visit the center’s website for more details.

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Four-legged competitors take over Kenansville This cow has her eye on the action. From the kids in the show ring to the animals at the heart of the competition, young exhibitors brought their best livestock, plenty of personality and a little friendly competition to Kenansville this weekend. Check out the highlights from three days of showing, ribbons and four-legged stars on Page 5A.

Warsaw secures option on 27-acre parcel for wastewater amid valuation debate The $750,000 purchase would be funded by a state grant, but the town must verify the property’s value and suitability

ture bottlenecks that currently limit municipal growth. During the Sept. 14 meeting, Commissioner Tommy Jones emphasized that Warsaw currently lacks the wastewater treatment capacity required to accommodate new residential developments, commercial projects, or industrial expansion. “This is a must for us here in

Warsaw. That’s why we fought so hard to get this 27 acres of land,” said Jones. According to Commissioner Jack Hawes, the property, owned by [Leonard F.] Sutton, was originally priced at more than $1 million before negotiations led by former town manager,

Bed bugs infestation temporarily displaces Beulaville EMS crew

contamination by professional exterminators, crews returned to the station ahead of a second scheduled treatment on Sept. 11. Barwick said an EMS shift supervisor reported additional pests inside the facility around midnight Sept. 18. The crew again completed decontamination protocols and temporarily relocated as a precaution. “In the interim, the Beulaville EMS crew is being staged in their primary response district during the day and relocated to a nearby station during the overnight hours to ensure

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — The Warsaw Board of Commissioners has voted to enter into an option con-

tract to acquire a 27-acre tract of land adjacent to the town’s existing wastewater treatment facility. The decision marks a major preliminary step toward addressing critical infrastruc-

See WARSAW, page A3

Movie Night returns Movie Night at the park will return to Teachey on Oct. 10. Activities including fall crafts, face painting, games, a bouncy house and unlimited popcorn will begin at 5 p.m. The movie is scheduled to begin about 7:30 p.m. Residents can choose between “Zootopia 2” and “Toy Story 5” for the featured film. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Duplin County candidates forum set for Oct. 13 A nonpartisan candidates forum will be held 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 13 at James Sprunt Community College’s Monk Auditorium. Hosted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the forum will give residents an opportunity to hear from candidates seeking local, state and federal offices and learn about their positions on issues affecting the community. The event is open to the public. Organizers said participating organizations do not endorse political parties or individual candidates.

County officials say the station remains under monitoring as the crew transitions back to full-time occupancy By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — A bed bug infestation at the Beulaville EMS station has temporari-

Historic Magnolia library gets new life as community center The project gives the nearly 200-year-old building a new purpose while preserving a piece of the town’s history By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

$2.00

ly displaced emergency crews from their overnight quarters, prompting questions from residents about response times and accommodations for EMS personnel.

According to Public Safety Director Matthew Barwick, the infestation first came to light around midnight Sept. 4. “The EMS crew was sent home on paid administrative leave as a precaution to protect their safety and help prevent any potential spread,” Barwick told Duplin Journal Monday, adding that following an initial de-

MAGNOLIA — The town of Magnolia celebrated the opening of the newly renovated Magnolia Community Center Sept. 17, marking a new chapter for the historic Florence Gallier Library building at 104 W. Main St. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Dawn Ward spoke about preserving the building’s history while giving it a new purpose.

“This is actually a piece of Magnolia’s history and we wanted to preserve that for the town,” said Ward during the ceremony. “We build on history and the people who came before us and we are so excited to be able to preserve this piece of our history and repurpose it.” The nearly 200-year-old building was originally established as a library by the Women’s Civic Club and named in honor of Florence Gallier, a historical civic figure known for her instrumental role in establishing the town’s library. To ensure this history remains part of the community’s fabric, Gallier’s photograph and the original front sign from the library are preserved and displayed See LIBRARY, page A2

“She has spent countless hours up here doing lots of manual labor not only inside the building and out but also in this garden.” Dawn Ward

See BED BUGS, page A3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26 #144

Warsaw updates UDO to address state downzoning law The final ordinance restores development rights and adds protections for existing nonresidential properties

“Join the conversation”

Duplin Journal

Trip Hoffend Publisher

Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers

Ena Sellers News Editor

Michael Jaenicke Sports Editor

Patsy Teachey Advertising Representative

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — Last week, the Warsaw Board of Commissioners adopted the town’s new Unified Development Ordinance after revising several provisions to address potential conflicts with North Carolina restrictions on local downzoning. Planning consultants from Insight Consulting Group and municipal land-use attorney Cy Lee reviewed the draft ordinance against existing town regulations and current state law before its final adoption. The review identified provisions that could have reduced development rights or removed land uses that were previously allowed under the town’s existing regulations. “One of the biggest issues that I found … was that we needed to do something to make sure that level that impacts local municipalities’ and counties’ ability to regulate lo-

“We needed to do something to make sure that level that impacts local municipalities and counties ability to regulate local development regulations without property owners consent.” Ashley Barefoot, planning and land use director cal development regulations without property owners consent,” said Ashley Barefoot, planning and land use director. Among the changes were revisions to residential density standards. The R-6 district was changed from a proposed maximum of 12 units per acre to 13 units per acre, while the R-10 district was adjusted from 4 units per acre to 4.4 units per acre. The town also restored several uses that had been omitted from earlier versions of the UDO, including churches, schools and hospitals in residential districts. Boarding and guest houses were re-

stored in R-6, along with certain golf courses, country clubs and private clubs in districts where they had previously been allowed. Several uses also were restored in the Industrial district, including auto repair, building material storage/ sales, greenhouses, printing/ publishing and industrial research laboratories. The board also added a section to prevent stricter new setback, buffering, landscaping and parking standards from turning existing commercial or industrial properties into illegal nonconforming structures. According to town documents the provision treats legally established nonresidential sites and structures as conforming rather than nonconforming. The UDO also removed a proposed 12-month waiting period for applicants seeking to refile denied rezoning applications after consultants determined the restriction was not permitted under current state law. The board adopted the UDO following a public hearing and a recommendation from the Warsaw Planning Board. “This board gets to sit in the capacity that all of you were elected by your constituents, which is to exercise your reasonable business judgment relative to the project that’s been proposed,” said Cy Lee, land-use attorney. Consultants told the board that state land-use laws continue to change and recommended that Warsaw regularly review its development regulations to maintain compliance with future legislation.

Office Manager

LIBRARY from page A1

Office Phone: 910 463-1240 To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

CLASSIFIEDS

HELP WANTED HOUSE CLEANER The job is 3 hours/day, 5 days a week, and the pay is $25 per hour. You can email me via vmccartthy11@gmail.com for more information. 3tp

inside the renovated facility. “The total cost of the renovation was $27,059.98,” Ward told Duplin Journal. This included $11,156.16 from hurricane insurance proceeds to replace the damaged roof, $903.02 for tables and chairs from the Community Engagement Committee budget, and interest from the NC Community Management Trust account. Improvements included new flooring, a renovated restroom, a wall-mounted television that had previously been in town hall, freshly painted repurposed paneling, a wheelchair ramp, an updated sign and a functioning kitchen. “The front door was painted a beautiful yellow that some residents are calling ‘a ray of sunshine,’” said Ward. Local businesses and donors also contributed materials and labor to the restoration, along with support from anonymous donors. The project relied heavily on local leadership and volunteer work. According to Ward, a key driving force behind the project was Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavenaugh, whose initiative and personal labor spearheaded the restoration. “This would not have happened without her vision first. This does not happen in a vacuum and it first requires somebody not only having a vision, but being willing to step up and step in,” said Ward. “She has spent countless hours up here doing lots of manual labor not only inside the build-

happening SPONSORED BY

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

Sept. 26 Camo for a Cause 8 a.m. to midnight Camo for a Cause will host its annual fundraiser featuring a live auction, live music and family activities, with proceeds supporting North Carolina families affected by childhood cancer at Tara Creek. 136 Robert Hobbs Road, Faison

Mike’s Farm Antique Tractor Show 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Kick off the fall season with an antique tractor, equipment and car show, a tractor parade, door prizes and tractor games. Pumpkin patch hayrides are open for the season, with magic shows and live music.

Loretta Carey

DUPLIN

1600 Haw Branch Road, Beulaville

Sept. 29 Tuesday Night Twilight Concert Series 6 to 8 p.m.

COURTESY JESSICA MELTON

Local and state officials cut the ribbon during a Sept. 17 opening of the newly renovated Magnolia Community Center. Left to right, Commissioners Perry Raines, Eric Graham, Elvenia Wilson, state Rep. Jimmy Dixon, Mayor Dawn Ward, Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavenaugh and Commissioner Janice Wilson. ing and out but also in this garden.” With the renovation complete, the building will serve as a venue for town events and a rental space for small gatherings. The town’s first annual movie night at the park is scheduled for Oct. 3, followed by the community center’s first event Oct. 8. Ward said the town also

hopes to establish YMCA programming through the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, potentially as soon as next summer if fundraising efforts are successful. “This would introduce afterschool care, programming for seniors and other activities for which the Magnolia Community Center would be used,” said Ward.

The Wallace Chamber series continues with a performance by Time Machine Band, featuring music from the 1960s through the 2000s. The free community event also includes food trucks, local vendors and family-friendly activities. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of live music and local shopping. 683 E. Southerland St., Wallace

Movie Night 6 p.m. Magnolia will host a free showing of “Casper” at the West 17 Ballfield. The movie will include Spanish subtitles. Free popcorn, hot dogs and water will be available while supplies last. West 17 Ballfield, Magnolia

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Magnolia moves on $950K housing grant, $25K business program Commissioners also approved new municipal fees and received updates on police, infrastructure and community projects By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal MAGNOLIA — The Magnolia Board of Commissioners approved changes to town fees, advanced a $950,000 housing grant application and received updates on infrastructure, police activity and community programs during its regular monthly meeting. The board also proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Magnolia. “Hispanics comprise an estimated 22% of the population of the town of Magnolia and play a vital role in our local economy, workforce as well as in our schools and education system,” said Mayor Dawn Ward as she read the proclamation. The national theme for the observance is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” Town Manager Charles Banks presented plans for a Community Development Block Grant-Neighborhood Revitalization application, which has an Oct. 13 submission deadline. The town is seeking up to $950,000 for housing rehabilitation and demolition and rebuilding of owner-occupied residential homes. The town plans to submit applications for four primary homes and two or three alternate homes. Banks explained that three potential homes have already received preliminary assessments. Under the program’s 70% threshold, homes requiring repairs exceeding 70% of their estimated value must be demolished and replaced with new construction. Applicants must be low- to moderate-income owner-occupants. Banks cited income limits of approximately $47,000 to $48,000 for single-person households in Duplin County. Mobile homes can qualify if they are secured to permanent brick foundations. Recipi-

“Hispanics comprise an estimated 22% of the population of the town of Magnolia and play a vital role in our local economy, workforce as well as in our schools and education system.” Mayor Dawn Ward ents must remain in the homes as their primary residence for six to seven years after rehabilitation. The town is expanding eligibility into its extraterritorial jurisdiction, extending one mile outside town limits. A second public hearing and application workshop is scheduled for Sept. 29. “Anyone who feels that they are eligible and would like to apply, please provide the information to the town. They can call in or come to the front desk. We have a book that we’re taking names, numbers, addresses,” said Banks. Commissioners also unanimously approved changes to the town’s fee schedule. Rental of the town’s motor grader will cost $150 per hour, with a three-hour minimum, for outside contracted work. The town recently acquired a midsize motor grader to maintain Magnolia’s dirt and gravel roads. Because neighboring municipalities and local DOT hubs lack immediate access to small-scale graders, Magnolia established a commercial rental rate for third-party contracted work to generate municipal revenue. Banks said the grader will help address maintenance needs on dirt and gravel roads, which account for 35% to 40% of town streets. Water and sewer tap fees will change from a flat $1,250 charge to cost plus 10%. Banks clarified that flat utility fees previously forced the town to absorb operating losses when hiring external contractors. The board also approved a $25,000 budget amendment tied to a Duke Energy Foundation Business Grant. The

funds will provide financial assistance to registered businesses within town limits for improvements including facades, paint, signage, commercial equipment, point-of-sale systems and employee training. The application deadline is Oct. 19 and award announcements are scheduled for Dec. 1. Police Chief Jerry Wood reported 650 dispatched and self-initiated activities in August, including 148 business checks, 104 senior citizen checks, 105 speed enforcement actions and 28 code enforcement inspections. Wood also updated commissioners on a fatal shooting that killed 16-year-old Alexis Gonzalez. According to the chief, a joint investigation involving the Magnolia Police Department, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office led to the arrest of Gerardo Emanuel Ober, also known as “Chino.” Wood said he was located using drone technology and taken into custody in less than a day after the shooting. He is being held in county jail without bond. Wood also addressed questions about the department’s Flock license plate readers, saying the cameras scan vehicle license plates against automated law enforcement hotlists rather than actively monitoring individuals. Elsewhere, Banks reported $564,692.80 in the town’s asset management investment portfolio and $77,859.10 in general operating capital. Construction continues on the Highway 903 water project and municipal park upgrades, while negotiations for property needed for the Newberry Street lift station are nearing completion. The town also announced completion of its new Community Center. Upcoming events include a free “Casper” movie night Oct. 3, a craft class Oct. 8, Trunk-or-Treat on Oct. 31 and the third annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 4. The meeting concluded with recognition of local youth and academic and athletic achievements before commissioners entered closed session to discuss legal matters.

WARSAW from page A1 state Rep. Jimmy Dixon and Commissioner Jones brought the agreed purchase price down to $750,000. “When we first began discussing this property, there was a contract price well over a million and Mr. Dixon along with Commissioner Jones negotiated down,” said Hawes. The proposed acquisition will be funded entirely through a $750,000 state grant allocated by the North Carolina General Assembly and managed by the Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM). Jones highlighted that because the purchase is fully covered by state grant funds, it will require no local tax increase for Warsaw residents. Interim Town Attorney J. Phillips clarified that the board’s vote does not execute an immediate purchase or bind municipal funds. Instead, the option contract legally binds the landowner to hold the property at the $750,000 purchase price through Feb. 1. This grants the town exclusive rights to evaluate the site while retaining full discretion to walk away without financial penalty if the property fails to meet requirements. The proposal sparked discussion among commissioners regarding property valuation and grant compliance. Commissioner Ebony Wills Wells raised concerns pointing out that according to county GIS records, the property has an assessed land value of $65,600 and a total market valuation of $492,600. “Paying $750,000 for land that’s appraised at $492,600 creates a $257,400 premium, which is 52% above the market value rate of it. And according to the general statute ... state grants require purchases at or below fair market value,” said Wells. She warned that paying above fair market value could risk grant clawbacks or violating state statutory guidelines.

“This person always wanted over a million dollars for this land. This last time we talked to him, he came down to what we thought was reasonable,” said Jones. “And we went and got the money where it ain’t going to cost a person in Warsaw a penny. We got this money out of a grant that we already got.” Phillips said that tax assessments on county GIS websites do not constitute formal property appraisals. Legal counsel noted that specialized municipal utility land often carries a higher market value than general agricultural property, and an official appraisal has not yet been conducted. He explained that entering into the option contract binds the seller to the price while allowing the town the necessary window to conduct a formal appraisal, survey, and engineering evaluation to satisfy all state grant requirements before any final purchase takes place. To resolve valuation questions and verify technical feasibility before the Feb. 1 deadline, the town must complete a detailed boundary survey of the 27-acre parcel, conduct a formal appraisal to establish the property’s official fair market value for grant compliance and work with engineering consultants McDavid & Associates to conduct site testing and confirm the land’s physical suitability for treatment plant expansion. Following the debate, the Board of Commissioners voted to approve entering into the option agreement, authorizing legal counsel and staff to proceed with the formal studies.

Supermarket Fresh Meats Cut Daily

YOUR HOMETOWN GROCEREY FOR 96 YEARS!

Check out our weekly deals below! T-BONE STEAKS

$5.69/lb

$1.29/LB they have appropriate quarters for rest between emergency calls,” Barwick said. He added that pest control technicians reinspected the Beulaville station Sept. 21, found signs indicating successful eradication and observed no new cause for concern. At press time, Barwick said county administration expected the crew to return to full-time occupancy at the Beulaville quarters Sept. 22. “The temporary relocation has allowed us to maintain a response presence in the Beulaville area while providing crews with appropriate facilities during the overnight hours,” Barwick said. “Throughout this process, maintaining EMS coverage in the district while protecting our employees and preventing any potential spread has remained our primary concern.” The temporary relocation has also drawn concerns from local resident Tiffany Ferrell, who works in patient access services at ECU Health Duplin Hospital. Ferrell argued in a public statement that moving crews to alternative locations, including Medic 8 in Kenansville or Medic 3 in Chinquapin, has affected emergency coverage in Beulaville. Ferrell alleged that the relocation increased response times in Beulaville. County administration has not corroborated that figure in its public communications. “By removing the emergency truck from its home station, county leaders have effectively caused emergency response

Commissioner Tommy Jones

W H A L E Y ‘S

FRESH PICNICS BED BUGS from page A1

“This is a must for us here in Warsaw. That’s why we fought so hard to get this 27 acres of land.”

MONKS FAMOUS

DAISY FIELD

HOMEMADE SAUSAGE

SMOKED PICNICS

WISE BUY

USDA INSPECTED

$2.19/LB

$4.99/lb

CHICKEN BREAST FILETS

BEEF

$2.19/LB FILETS $11.59/LB

Monk Whaley, Owner • 906 E Main St., Beulaville, NC • 910-298-3646

COURTESY PHOTO

An EMT displays bed bug bites on their arm following an infestation at the Beulaville EMS station. times in Beulaville to skyrocket to a staggering 20 to 25 minutes,” Ferrell said in a social media statement. “In a medical emergency, every single second counts, and forcing families to wait nearly half an hour for an ambulance is a dangerous gamble with human lives.” The infestation also has renewed scrutiny over Duplin County’s fiscal allocations. Pointing to public financial records, Ferrell criticized the county’s multimillion-dollar general fund balance while emergency infrastructure faces pest issues. “A tiny fraction of that massive fund balance could instantly pay for commercial fumigation and heat treatments, permanently replace all contaminated furniture, guarantee pest-free living quarters,” wrote Ferrell. “Our paramedics and EMTs protect us at our absolute worst, and the bare minimum we owe them is pest free facilities.” County emergency management said that the Beulaville

“The temporary relocation has allowed us to maintain a response presence in the Beulaville area while providing crews with appropriate facilities during the overnight hours.” Matthew Barwick station will remain under active monitoring to prevent further occurrences as crews transition back to full-time occupancy. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of our employees and the community as we work through this situation,” said Barwick. “We will continue to monitor the station and take appropriate action if any additional concerns are identified.”

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

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Young exhibitors bring livestock show to Kenansville Competitors from across North Carolina gathered for three days of shows By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — The Duplin Livestock Facility hosted a three-day livestock show last weekend. Kids of all ages from across the state traveled to Kenansville to compete in goat, lamb, cattle and pig shows. The show was part of the Eastern Showmanship Circuit. “These kids are showing every weekend and earning points in showmanship,” said Duplin County Cooperative Extension Show Coordinator Charmae Kendall. “At the end of the season, there will be overall winners given belt buckles at an awards ceremony we will have for them in November.” Although the power went out throughout Kenansville on Friday night, the show went on with 50 goats and 40 exhibi-

“Since I started showing, this community has really helped me and built me up.” Nathan Medlin tors that night. On Saturday, there were 50 exhibitors showing 70 lambs, 30 heifers and four steers. On Sunday, 25 exhibitors showed 30 hogs. “It takes a lot of money to do these shows,” Kendall said, pointing out how many of the judges had to be flown in from out of state. “The exhibitors pay $25, but that doesn’t cover the cost. We couldn’t do this without sponsorship money.” While the animals can be judged in different classes, showmanship competitions are about how well the exhibitors know their animals. Exhibitors choose to participate in

the shows for various reasons. “I do my best to get first; I compete to get better and better and win lots of prizes like ribbons and buckles,” Carson Harris — who placed Grand White Face with her lamb, Bay Max — told Duplin Journal. For Nathan Medlin, showing is more about the relationships he forms at the shows. “I didn’t grow up in an agriculture background; my family moved here from the city,” Medlin said. “I started showing when my friend invited me to a show one day. … Since I started showing, this community has really helped me and built me up. The prizes are good and everything, but at the end of the day, it’s about the friends you have on the other line.” Medlin, a recent graduate of Southern Nash, won Senior Showmanship and Reserve Market Lamb and Supreme Market Lamb with his lamb, MJ. Detty Moore won Grand Champion in Showmanship

PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Nathan Medlin competes with his lamb, MJ, during the livestock show at the Duplin Livestock Facility in Kenansville. with her lamb, Rip. Moore shows every weekend and has been showing for nine years. “I think it’s fun and it teaches me good sportsmanship and how to communicate with people,” Moore said. Showing is a family tradition for Moore. Her mother used to show as well. They spend a couple of hours a day working with the animals and training them. For Abigail Waters, a fourth grader from Princeton, showing is something her family enjoys

traveling to do every weekend. “I just like to get out there, have fun, and work with the animals,” Waters said. Waters won Grand Goat Showmanship with her goat, Mary Ann, on Friday. Kendall encouraged anyone interested in learning more about how to get involved with livestock showing to reach out to their local Cooperative Extension Office. Kendall can be reached via email or phone at 910-271-0897.

Top, Detty Moore poses with her winning lamb, Rip, a judge and one of her friends. Bottom left, a youth exhibitor demonstrates his knowledge of his heifer while walking the animal around a corralled area. Bottom right, a young exhibitor inspects his lamb outside the arena before the show.

Never fear a blackout again. We are proud to be an authorized Generac dealer We have the answers to all your questions!

richsheatandairnc.com | 910-285-5522 | 4426 S NC 11, Wallace, NC

What kind of generators do we sell? Generac whole home generators. These generators are permanently wired into the home with an Automatic Transfer Switch. What type of fuel is needed? Propane or Natural Gas is required. We do not install the propane tanks.

Is a permit required? Yes, we will pull an electrical permit for the installation. This protects us and the homeowner’s insurance claims should something go wrong.

What size generator does someone need? To get this right, a visit to the home is required. We need to see what appliances they have and their electrical meter/main breakers. Typically, we see people get a 18KW, 26KW, or a 32KW. Do we finance? Yes, we can finance with Wells Fargo or Good Leap. Wells Fargo offers 0.0% rates for qualified buyers.

Scan for more info!

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Wallace Lodge dedicates cornerstone while honoring historic past, future The ceremony recognized generations of lodge members

Duplin Journal staff WALLACE — A cornerstone dedication ceremony brought members of Wallace Lodge No. 279 A.F. & A.M., visiting Masons and community guests together Sept. 12 at the lodge building on W. Lanier Street.

The ceremony included Grand Master Steve Norris and members of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina’s Grand Line. Norris presided over the dedication. The event also included Boy Scout Troop 35, whose members presented the Colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. “These young men are the cornerstone to our future and the future of this community,” Norris said. Mike Murphy, master of

Wallace Lodge, said the presence of the Grand Lodge officers was meaningful to local members. “We are grateful to Grand Master Steve Norris and the rest of the Grand Line officers for accepting our invitation and joining us for this special occasion,” said Murphy. “It was a tremendous honor to have them here. Their presence reflects the spirit of brotherhood that connects Masons across North Carolina and reminds us that our

work is ultimately about serving others.” The dedication commemorated the history of Wallace Lodge and the generations of members who have contributed to its work. That work has included charitable efforts, assistance to people in need and participation in local activities. Murphy said the ceremony also represented values including service, integrity, fellowship and helping one’s neighbors.

“These young men are the cornerstone to our future and the future of this community.” Grand Master Steve Norris “Those are values that unite us all,” Murphy said. Lodge members and volunteers helped prepare for the ceremony by readying the grounds, organizing the event, providing refreshments, welcoming guests and documenting the occasion. The newly dedicated cornerstone will serve as a permanent marker of Wallace Lodge No. 279’s history and tradition.

PHOTOS COURTESY WALLACE LODGE NO. 279

Left, Grand Master Steve Norris speaks during Wallace Lodge No. 279 A.F. & A.M.’s cornerstone dedication ceremony on Sept. 12. Right, members of Boy Scout Troop 35 participate in the dedication.

No Judgement. Just Help. Text, Call, Chat 988.

This message is being brought to you by Strategic Prevention Framework Partnerships for Success grant funds awarded to Duplin County 4-H Prevention Program. For more information, please contact Jasmine Williams, 4H Prevention Coordinator, at jasmine.williams@ duplinnc.gov

Investment of $200M turns swine waste into renewable energy The new facility brings agriculture, technology and private investment to Sampson County Duplin Journal staff TURKEY — A $200 million investment is bringing renewable energy technology to Sampson County, with Montauk Ag Renewables converting swine waste into renewable energy. Last week, the company celebrated the opening of its new facility in Turkey, marking a project Sampson County Economic Development officials say represents innovation, growth and new opportunity for the community. At the facility, swine waste is converted into renewable energy, creating an opportunity to turn an agricultural byproduct into electricity while adding another compo-

nent to the local economy. The ribbon-cutting event included remarks from Randy Barefoot, director of community and farm relations; Montauk President Sean McClain and Sen. Brent Jackson, who shared perspectives on the investment and its implications for agriculture, energy and rural North Carolina. Sampson County Economic Development officials said the project represents more than its $200 million price tag. It illustrates how investments tied to the region’s agricultural economy can also bring renewable energy technology and economic development opportunities to the community. The investment also underscores the role agriculture can play in creating opportunities beyond traditional production, with swine waste becoming the raw material for renewable energy.

COURTESY SAMPSON COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Montauk Ag Renewables recently celebrated the opening of its new facility in Turkey, marking a $200 million investment in renewable energy and agricultural innovation.

DUPLIN SPORTS Quick-striking Cardinals hand Rebels’ miscues Panthers first loss of season swing open door FOOTBALL ROUNDUP

“This is humbling, for sure. Now we get to see how we react.” Seth Sandlin, East Duplin defensive coordinator

Early turnovers and big plays early sink East Duplin in a loss to 6A Jacksonville By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

JACKSONVILLE — Two defensive scores, a long touchdown pass, a long running score and a 19-yard sprint to the pylon were more than enough to take away any chance that East Duplin could beat Jacksonville last Friday. And it all happened before halftime during the Cardinals’ 42-7 win at Durham-Simpson Field. The lightning-quick scores

led to a 35-0 lead and a continuously running game-clock in the second half. “We got a little lucky early by their misread on defense, and as things do, it kind of snowballed on them,” said Jacksonville head coach Beau Williams, who has a 130-69 career record and took the ’25 team to the 6A region finals last season and to the runner-up spot in 2A in 2018. “We had some big plays on a technically sound team. We’re bigger on the D-line, and that made a difference. But they have three good running backs, and they are a good football team. Battle (Holley) and his kid don’t quit. It was good to get them early.

We’ve had some tough ones.” 6A Jacksonville holds a 5-1 series lead over 4A ED, although all the games were close, including the Panthers’ 27-26 triumph in ’17 when Holley guided them to the 2A final. The son of the second-winningest coach in state history led ED to its lone state title in ’22. It was the first loss in five games for the Panthers. “We made some mistakes, and they have great team speed,” said Panthers defensive coordinator Seth Sandlin. “We don’t have the kind of speed to mimic them in practice. This is humbling, for sure. Now we get to see how we react. See CARDINALS, page B2

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Semaj Scott, left, Keeshon Mckinnie and East Duplin’s defense chased Jacksonville runners all night during a 42-7 loss.

for Leopards in 28-14 win

Running back Calvin Lacewell and Lakewood rallied for the win By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal CALYPSO — The game was playing out to perfection at halftime as North Duplin used two long drives to go in front by eight points. It all came crashing down in the third quarter as Lakewood rallied for 22 unanswered points for a 28-14 win Monday in a key Carolina Conference affair at H.E. Grubbs Field. ND (3-1, 0-1) fumbled the ball away to the Leopards on the second snap of the third quarter to begin a series of mistakes that played into Lakewood’s hands. Calvin Lacewell, who ran for 115 of his 172 yards in the second half, trimmed the margin to 14-12 six plays later. ND’s offense sputtered and Lakewood got to the Rebels 2 because of an unsportsmanlike flag, Lacewell and quarterback Burroughs Strickland’s two passes and his 2-point conversion. Up 20-14, the Rebels turned the ball over on downs at their own 35. Lacewell’s first carry covered 26 yards and his second the nine yards he needed to score. He added the conversion to up the lead to two scores. ND fumbled again and was unable to move the ball forward. Jayden Pope (15-97) scored from the 10 as time expired in the first quarter as ND went in front 7-0. Pope converted on fourth-and-4 at the 20 during the quarter-consuming drive. Lakewood got to within 7-6 with a march that featured Lacewell and a chain-moving pass connection to Trevon Tillery, a 25-yard gain on third-and-15 from near midfield. Lacewell pushed the markers two other times on third down. ND’s final march of the first half was classic Rebels football. Grady had a 13-yard run, Pope pushed for 17 and 26 yards, setting up a secondand-goal from the 8 with 13.2 seconds on the clock. Quarterback Henry Pope found Grady in the back of the end zone to score with 2.2 seconds left. See REBELS, page B4

JAMES KENAN HALL OF FAME

Player was key hoopster for Tigers’ 3 state Final Four trips The Department of Social Services superintendent will enter the JK HOF with Stedman Mathis and Jeffrey Wallace By Bill Rollins For Duplin Journal

COURTESY

Stephanie Player

WARSAW — Stephanie Player vividly remembers her first big freshman moment as James Kenan’s four-year low-post player. It was in a game at Kenan Auditorium in December 1998. “I didn’t start initially that

year,” she said, “but (someone) got hurt and Coach (Sherman) Futch put me in. “Toward the end of the game we made a comeback, and I went up and made a shot and got fouled. “Then I made the free throw — to win the game! “I said, ‘Oh my gosh, did I do that?’” Oh yes, she did that, and she was a starter from then on, creating many more oh-my-gosh moments — even on a team that included fellow JK Hall of Famers Shalyce Smith at a wing and Player’s classmate

Anita Rogers at point guard. That moment kicked off a career for Player that included career averages in double-figure scoring and rebounding, all-conference honors and three trips to the East Regional Final Four in Greenville, as the Tigers finished as runner-up her final two seasons. JK Hall of Fame inductions Oct. 10 Player will be inducted into the James Kenan Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. in the school’s John P.

Our team has 50 years of combined experience focusing on Duplin County real estate. How can we help you? 910-290-2194

facebook.com/SimpsonRE

Curt Simpson, Broker in Charge

Harmon Gym. There will be a meet-and-greet at 5 p.m. in the school’s front lobby. The other inductees that day will be former Tigers football stars Stedman Mathis (2004-07 seasons) and Jeffrey Wallace (1991-94). Their stories will appear in the next two issues of Duplin Journal. Impressive “ups” Longtime James teacher and coach See HOF, page B3

Kenan Wendy

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK