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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 34 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

Fire destroys home after vehicle strikes living room A Duplin County family is seeking community support after a vehicle crashed into their home off N.C. 11 in the Kornegay area, west of Pink Hill and near B.F. Grady Elementary School, early Saturday, sparking a fire that destroyed the residence. According to authorities, the crash occurred about 1 a.m. when a passenger vehicle ran through a stop sign, plowed into a residential home across the road and burst into flames. The fire quickly engulfed and destroyed the house. No injuries were reported inside the home.

Wallace launches emergency alert system The Town of Wallace is launching a CivicPlus alert system to notify residents of emergencies, severe weather and other urgent situations. Alerts can be delivered by text message, email or phone call and may include evacuation orders, shelter‑in-place instructions and wildfire updates. Residents can register online at wallacenc.myfreealerts.com. To sign up, select “Create Account,” enter contact information, language preference and address, then choose desired notifications under “Town Alerts.”

Mount Olive to conduct sewer smoke testing The Town of Mount Olive will conduct sanitary sewer smoke testing through Oct. 28, covering all areas of town. The testing aims to identify leaks, breaks and illegal connections in sewer lines that could cause odors, health hazards or structural damage. The town said the smoke is typically white to yellowish‑white and is harmless to people, pets and plants. Smoke entering a home may indicate a plumbing defect that is the property owner’s responsibility. Residents with questions or concerns can call 919-658-9539.

COURTESY CHAD HOXIE

Duplin County assesses storm damage after reported tornado activity Downed power lines, fallen trees and storm damage were reported across several communities Sunday as severe weather moved through Duplin County. Turn to A6 for more.

Duplin County approves pay plan with nearly $912K annual cost The new salary structure aims to improve recruitment and retention as county officials look for ways to control costs By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Duplin County commissioners recently approved a sweeping overhaul

of the county’s pay plan, aiming to make salaries more competitive and fill critical vacancies while facing a projected annual cost of $911,391 and pressure to avoid raising taxes.

During the October meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, Interim County Manager Lisa Hughes presented the plan, which takes effect immediately for new hires and will be implemented for current employees beginning Nov. 1. The county expects the remaining fiscal-year cost to total $637,974, initially covered by

Mount Olive approves $284K wastewater settlement The board also authorized Elmore Street paving and advanced plans for speed bumps on two streets By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal MOUNT OLIVE — A $284,000 wastewater settlement, plans for speed bumps on

two streets and continued work to address vacant public housing units were among the major items before Mount Olive commissioners at their October meeting.

The wastewater settlement resolves outstanding claims related to Wastewater Treatment Improvement Contracts 1 and 2. The board approved payments of $11,834 per month for 24 months beginning Nov. 1. The board said the work was commissioned in 2021 under a previous administration

Early voting sites Duplin County voters can cast ballots ahead of the Nov. 3 general election through Oct. 31 at Ed Emory Auditorium at 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville and American Legion Post 156 at 529 E. Southerland St. in Wallace. 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.

Wallace delays vote on feather flag rules Officials will revisit proposed sign rules Nov. 12 after debate over business visibility and historic preservation By Curt Simpson For Duplin Journal

$2.00

THE WALLACE TOWN Council delayed a decision last Thursday on proposed changes to the town’s sign regulations, giving officials another month to consider whether businesses in downtown Wallace should be allowed to display feather flags and other advertising flags. The discussion centered on how to balance the advertising needs of downtown busi-

nesses with efforts to preserve the character of the historic district. Councilman Frank Brinkley suggested tabling the decision for 30 days, and the council agreed to take up the matter again at its Nov. 12 meeting. Town Planning Director Rod Fritz outlined proposed changes to the town’s Unified Development Ordinance, which would clarify the rules governing advertising flags. Under the proposal, businesses in the Central Business and Highway Business districts could display no more than two advertising flags per site. Advertising flags would be prohibited in the Historic Overlay District, which covers the historic downtown area, with an

“In light of the rapid growth headed to Wallace, I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping Historic Downtown Wallace special, inviting and the heart of our community.”

See VOTE, page A6

Pam Teachey

fund balance while leadership evaluates staffing levels, efficiencies and vacant positions. Sustaining the annual cost in future years would require ongoing revenue or other savings. Hughes estimated that funding the entire amount through property taxes would require See PAY PLAN, page A5

with the expectation that grant funding would cover the costs. When that funding fell through, the town was left to address the outstanding claims. The board approved the settlement after noting that the contractor had performed the work in good faith. The board also approved more than $65,000 for paving Elmore Street and repairing pavement damaged by tree root removal. A contract with KRG Utilities to conduct closed-circuit television inspections of sewer See SETTLEMENT, page A3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

THURSDAY

10.15.26 #147

CANDIDATE Q&A | ERIC SOUTHERLAND

Southerland shares plans for Duplin County Sheriff’s Office from being assigned transport duties during their scheduled night shifts. With these things taken into consideration, I would evaluate what improvements are possible within the current budget and work with county leadership to address any additional resource needs.

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

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

ERIC SOUTHERLAND, the Republican nominee for Duplin County sheriff, says his priorities include rebuilding community relationships, strengthening agency leadership, and addressing staffing and patrol coverage challenges. In a Q&A with Duplin Journal, Southerland discusses his approach to leadership, plans for recruiting and retaining deputies, and potential changes to scheduling and personnel assignments to improve law enforcement coverage across the county. What are your top two priorities if elected sheriff, and what specific steps would you take to address each one in your first year? My first priority is getting back to the basics of law enforcement by building trust and relationships throughout the county. That means getting out into our communities, talking with the people we serve, attending community events and becoming part of the fabric of the communities we protect. This starts with leadership taking the initiative and setting that example for the men and women of the agency. My second priority is building a strong command staff with relevant law enforcement experience and strong leadership qualities. In my first year, I would evaluate current leadership needs within each division, identify opportunities to strengthen the team, and ensure those in leadership positions have the experience and ability to effectively support their employees and serve our communities. What do you believe the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office is doing well, and where do you believe it needs improvement?

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

I believe one of the sheriff’s office’s greatest strengths is its people. There are dedicated men and women working throughout the agency who bring valuable experience, skills and a genuine com-

COURTESY

Eric Southerland mitment to serving Duplin County. Their work is essential to keeping our communities safe. I believe there is an opportunity to build on that foundation by creating an environment where employees feel supported, are trusted to use their experience and abilities, and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We can also improve the consistency of our service and the way we communicate with and treat the people we serve. How would you address staffing shortages, deputy retention and employee morale, and how would you fund those efforts within the county’s budget? To address staffing shortages, I would develop a proactive recruitment program, including attending job fairs and visiting local and surrounding community college Basic Law Enforcement Training programs. Retention and morale depend on clear policies, consistent expectations and holding everyone to the same standards regardless of position. Employees should also be empowered and trusted to do the jobs they were hired to do. I would review workload distribution and scheduling to ensure available personnel are being used effectively and patrol coverage is maintained when our communities need it most. For example, I would evaluate how mental health transports are scheduled to determine whether adjustments could prevent patrol deputies

How would you improve response times and law‑enforcement coverage in rural parts of Duplin County, particularly in areas far from the sheriff’s office? Rural coverage has been a challenge throughout my law enforcement career in Duplin County. Actual patrol staffing can oftentimes be affected by illness, vacation, court appearances and training, but given the county’s large geographic area, maintaining adequate coverage requires careful planning. While some positions, such as court staff and School Resource Officers, must follow schedules dictated by their responsibilities, I would review other assignments and scheduling practices to identify opportunities to supplement patrol coverage during peak call times and on weekends. This could also help boost employee morale. What would you like Duplin County voters to understand about you and your approach to leadership that they may not already know? Why do you believe you are the right person to serve as sheriff? My approach to leadership has always been to treat people with respect, be honest in my words and actions, and empower those I lead to grow professionally. Throughout my career, I have served in roles that allowed me to work directly with our communities and get to know the people we serve. I have worked through the ranks to develop the skills and knowledge needed to serve as sheriff. I would lead with humility, integrity and a commitment to Duplin County.

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

Oct. 17 Festival Cultural Latino returns to Wallace The event will feature live music and cultural celebrations, inviting families and community members to gather and celebrate Latin culture through music and entertainment. 209 E Clement St., Wallace

Voice From The Past Ghost Walk 7 p.m. Faison Improvement Group will host the walk at the Historic Faison Cemetery. The free event is open to the public. 142 Cemetery Drive, Faison

Plant giveaway planned in Wallace 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries and Johnson Nursery Corporation will partner for a free plant giveaway at the Crisis Center. Plants will be available while supplies last, and attendees are invited to make contributions to DCOM, which provides financial, nutritional and spiritual assistance to Duplin County residents experiencing unexpected crises. 514 S. Norwood St., Wallace

Rotary backs Scouts’ Veterans Day mission The Wallace Rotary Club donated $1,350 to Boy Scout Troop 35 to help fund its trip to Washington, D.C., to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Veterans Day. From left are Scoutmaster Stanley Skidmore and Rotary Club President Wayne Casteen, holding the check.

DUPLIN JOURNAL STAFF

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

CANDIDATE Q&A | CHUCK WEAVER

Weaver lays out approach to continue leading Duplin County Sheriff’s Office already underway. My approach would be to maintain the positive changes taking place, evaluate what is working and identify areas where we can improve. Law enforcement is not a job where we can afford to become complacent as we must continue adapting to the needs of our county, supporting our employees and ensuring the residents of Duplin County receive professional, effective and dependable service.

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal CHUCK WEAVER became Duplin County’s chief deputy and acting sheriff following Stratton Stokes’ resignation in July. Now running as a write‑in candidate for sheriff, Weaver brings more than 28 years of experience with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, including work in patrol, investigations and narcotics. In a Q&A, Weaver discusses his priorities for the office, including building public trust, addressing staffing and retention challenges, strengthening partnerships with other public safety agencies and improving law enforcement coverage in rural communities. What are your top two priorities if elected sheriff, and what specific steps would you take to address each one in your first year? My first priority is to rebuild and strengthen the relationship between the sheriff’s office and the citizens of Duplin County, particularly in our rural communities. I believe effective law enforcement starts with trust, communication and visibility. I would focus on increasing the deputies’ presence in the communities they serve, encouraging more one-on-one interactions with residents, and supporting the development of community watch programs to promote communication and

SETTLEMENT from page A1 pipes required under the town’s State Operating Consent agreement was also approved. Town Manager Glenn Holland negotiated the contract price down to $96,000 from $198,000. The agreement requires all inspections to be completed by July 31, 2027, and sewer repairs by Jan. 31, 2028. The deadlines will allow the town to apply for state grants in February and October. The board approved beginning the process to install speed bumps on Elmore and East Kegan streets, rejecting a proposal to require a police traffic study first. Commissioner C.J. Weaver made the motion for a study, which Commissioner Gena Messer Knode seconded. The proposal failed in a hand vote

county commissioners to evaluate staffing requirements, identify responsible funding opportunities and make decisions to balance the needs of the sheriff’s office within the county’s overall budget. Retaining good employees also requires leadership that listens, recognizes hard work and provides opportunities for professional development.

forcement coverage throughout Duplin County, including our rural communities. What would you like Duplin County voters to understand about you and your approach to leadership that they may not already know? Why do you believe you are the right person to serve as sheriff?

The sheriff’s office has already begun making changes, and I believe it is important to recognize the progress while continuing to build on the work

Staffing, retention and employee morale are important to maintaining an effective sheriff’s office. The commissioners’ recently approved pay plan for starting positions is a positive step to help with recruiting qualified applicants and remain competitive. In addition, we recently received approval for a prehire program to allow us to recruit potential deputies, pay for their Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) and, upon successful completion, require them to serve with the sheriff’s office for two years under a contractual agreement. These initiatives can help us develop a stronger pipeline of qualified deputies while addressing staffing needs. I would continue working with our

The sheriff’s office has already implemented changes to patrol coverage by moving to a north, central and south coverage structure. This approach provides greater flexibility in how deputies are deployed and allows sergeants to move throughout their assigned areas, provide supervision, assist deputies when needed and help address coverage gaps as calls for service arise. I believe effective patrol coverage requires more than simply assigning deputies to specific areas. It requires active supervision, communication and the ability to adjust resources based on changing needs. My goal would be to continue evaluating this approach and make adjustments as necessary to improve visibility, support our deputies and provide dependable law en-

I have dedicated more than 28 years to serving the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, gaining experience in multiple areas of law enforcement, including patrol, investigations and narcotics. Throughout my career, I have served in several supervisory capacities, giving me firsthand knowledge of the responsibilities, challenges and decisions involved in leading a law enforcement agency. In addition to my operational experience, I have a strong understanding of budgeting and the financial responsibilities involved in managing different divisions. I have also overseen the Special Response Team and been involved in numerous high-risk situations where preparation, sound judgment and leadership are essential. I believe the sheriff must understand both the operational demands of the job and the responsibility of leading people, managing resources and serving the public. My experience has prepared me to take on that responsibility. I am committed to building public trust, supporting the men and women who serve this county, strengthening partnerships and ensuring that the sheriff’s office remains focused on the safety and well-being of every Duplin County resident.

after Mayor Pro Tem Delreese Simmons questioned the need for additional data. “I think this study is a waste of time,” Simmons said, adding that he sees traffic on the streets regularly and questioned using police time to monitor it. Holland estimated that speed bumps cost between $100 and $800 each, depending on the dimensions and materials. Town Attorney Carroll Turner said the town could meet administrative requirements by collecting resident petition signatures or holding a public hearing. Holland, who also serves as public works director, outlined recent infrastructure work across the town’s four districts, including repairs to a heavily obstructed storm drain on South Center Street near the railroad tracks.

Crews found that a 36-inch drain was largely blocked by stone, leaving only about 6 inches of open space. After clearing the shoulder toward Avenue Street, workers replaced crushed pipes, installed a new catch basin, graded the shoulder and inspected nearby water and sewer lines for infiltration. The town has also purchased a trail mower designed to reach beyond a tractor to clear ditches and road shoulders while reducing the risk of rocks striking vehicles. Holland and Simmons said traditional mowing had contributed to three or four broken windshields annually, costing about $1,000 per replacement. Separately, commissioners referred the town’s cemetery landscaping contract to the next ordinance meeting for re-

vision after Knode questioned its maintenance standards and payment structure. Knode said the contract allows grass to reach 8 to 10 inches before a default can be declared, while the town’s general nuisance ordinance sets a 12‑inch threshold. The contract also provides the same monthly payment throughout the year and does not require preemergent weed treatments, edging or headstone cleaning. Turner said the contract could be nonrenewed before its annual anniversary and recommended renegotiating the terms to specify summer mowing frequency and winter maintenance duties. Holland also reported that the town had commissioned a four- to six-week study of industrial water rates through

the North Carolina Rural Water Association. He emphasized that residential rates would not be affected. Responding to complaints about brown tap water, Holland explained that jet-cleaning water and sewer mains can temporarily reverse water flow and loosen mineral scale inside aging pipes. He advised residents to flush their lines through a bathtub or outside spigot rather than a sink with an aerator and to contact Town Hall directly with concerns. During closing remarks, commissioners praised Fire Chief Will Bryant and the town’s volunteer firefighters for their service, emphasizing that 80% to 85% of firefighters nationwide are volunteers who train and risk their lives without pay.

COURTESY

Charles Weaver cooperation between residents and law enforcement. My second priority is to strengthen relationships with other local public safety agencies. By improving communication, coordination and cooperation with municipal police departments, fire departments, EMS and other partners, we can work together more effectively to protect our residents and respond to the needs of our communities. What do you believe the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office is doing well, and where do you believe it needs to improve?

How would you address staffing shortages, deputy retention and employee morale, and how would you fund those efforts within the county’s budget?

How would you improve response times and law enforcement coverage in rural parts of Duplin County, particularly in areas far from the sheriff’s office?

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

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

COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON

Why the next election matters most

“Ask them no questions, and you’ll be told no lies.” Charles Dickens

THERE IS NO IRONY in the fact that this Nov. 3 is the most important election of our lifetime. It was true the last election, and it will be true in the next election. Because we have heard that many times before, we may brush it off as hyperbole. Please do not ignore that statement or shrug your shoulders and say or think, “So what else is new?” Do not make that short-sighted mistake as we approach the upcoming midterm elections. Stop, think and ask the following questions: What is the most important shot for a golfer to think about? What is the most important question for a student to think about after he answers a question on an exam? After a harvest is over, what is the most important crop season for a farmer? The next one is the proper answer! Certainly the last shot or the last decision should be considered and be a factor in the next shot or the next decision, but you can’t unring a bell. The good news is that we can repeat a good shot or a good decision, and we can try to improve a bad shot or a bad decision. But in real life we cannot retake a shot nor can we remake a decision. The next one is the most important. There are two major political parties to which most candidates belong and which most voters ultimately support and vote for. Our elections, for the most part, are partisan rather than nonpartisan, meaning that our ballots show the party to which a candidate belongs. The two major political parties are the

Republican Party and the Democratic Party. The platforms of the two parties are extremely important, and if a voter wishes to cast an informed vote, he must know the truth about where the party stands and where the candidate stands relative to the tenets (foundational principles) of each party. For more than half of my life, I was registered with the Democratic Party. Then I registered as unaffiliated. For the last 40 years, I have registered with the Republican Party. I have never voted a straight party ticket. I shall now express my opinions by contrasting the current tenets of the state and the national leaders of the Republican and the Democratic parties. I will contrast Michael Whatley, Roy Cooper, Sarah Stevens and Anita Earls, the candidates for the U.S. Senate and the North Carolina Supreme Court. Whatley and Stevens are conservatives; Cooper and Earls are ultraliberals. With Whatley and Stevens, you see exactly what they really are. With Cooper and Earls, you see only what they want you to see. Earls and her campaign have viciously and falsely accused Stevens with hideous accusations. I personally know Stevens as we were seatmates for six years in the North Carolina General Assembly, and Earls’ commercials are blatantly false. Cooper’s campaign grossly misrepresents my friend Whatley’s knowledge about a convicted man. Please remember that Cooper vetoed 52 good bills, including every Farm Act that Sen. Brent Jackson and I passed. Whatley and

Stevens strongly support our hard-working farm families. Cooper and Earls support abortion up to the point of birth. Cooper vetoed The Born Alive Bill, which simply said “if a baby survives an attempted abortion” give him or her medical attention. But Cooper and Earls say just make the baby comfortable and let it die. Whatley and Stevens revere life. Cooper and Earls toe the national party line which is pro-abortion up to the moment of birth. Before you vote, consider these facts about the national leadership that Cooper and Earls will support. They oppose voter ID. They support mail-in ballots for all voters. They promote open borders. They support mass amnesty. They want welfare for illegals. They want government-run healthcare. They support abortion till birth. They will pack the Supreme Court. They will impeach Donald Trump. You cannot separate Cooper from Chuck Schumer and Bernie Sanders. You cannot separate Earls from Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan or Ketanji Brown Jackson, who were appointed by Barack Obama and Joe Biden. “Ask them no questions, and you’ll be told no lies.” (Dickens) We the North Carolina people must understand that this election is the most important election of our lifetime. Rep. Jimmy Dixon represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.

COLUMN | JOSH HAMMER

Don’t let Flydubai terror scare derail Abraham Accords progress A Muslim pilot tried to crash a plane full of Jews.

TERRORISTS want nothing more than to prevent peace. It’s why they fly planes into buildings, don explosive vests and rain indiscriminate missiles on civilian populations. The response to such terrorism isn’t to cower. It is to lead with boldness, courage and, sometimes, outright heroism. The world just saw precisely such heroism in the high drama aboard Flydubai Flight 1073, from Dubai to Tel Aviv. There was the Indian national pilot, Smit Machchhar, who, though bleeding badly after he was brutally stabbed by his terrorist Omani national copilot, had the presence of mind to open the cockpit door as the plane nosedived 10,000 feet a minute. There were the ordinary Israeli citizens — and above all, new national hero Yaniv Hayoun — who, Todd Beamer-style, swiftly rushed the cockpit and subdued the terrorist in a chokehold (yes, really). There were the two off-duty pilots — reportedly British, South African or New Zealander in nationality — who were able to glide the plane to a safe emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. There was the Emirati flight crew, which handled the madness with aplomb, preventing chaos in a terrified cabin and ensuring the safety of all passengers. Israeli activist Hillel Fuld quoted a military pilot on X: “In virtually every historical incident where an airliner got anywhere close to these speeds, the tail ripped off the entire back of the plane.” In the Book of Esther in the Hebrew Bible, God is not mentioned once. This is

deliberate. His name doesn’t need to appear: His presence is felt, and seen, everywhere. It was the same way aboard Flydubai Flight 1073. Some have reacted to this mesmerizing story in knee-jerk fashion. They have leapt to call for the full cancelation of all direct flights between Israel and the United Arab Emirates — and perhaps a downgrading of ties between Israel and the Arab world, more generally. The instinct is understandable. The anti‑Israel press downplayed the harrowing affair as a “pilot altercation,” but the fact is, a Muslim pilot tried to crash a plane full of Jews. That looks like terrorism. That’s certainly what the Israelis think happened. But terror attacks and near-terror attacks must not derail peace. To allow peace to be derailed is actually to do the terrorists’ bidding. The Abraham Accords, those dynamic 2020 peace agreements that normalized Israeli relations with the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco, must go on. Indeed, they must expand. Many predicted the Abraham Accords would die after the Hamas savagery of Oct. 7, 2023, and the ensuing war in Gaza. They didn’t. On the contrary, the accords are stronger today. The Iran conflict, which has seen the Islamic Republic strike the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, has sent an unmistakable message: The Sunni Gulf states’ threat isn’t Jerusalem. It’s Tehran. That’s why, just days before the near catastrophe aboard Flydubai Flight 1073, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew to

Abu Dhabi to meet with representatives from eight different Arab countries. Prior to that confab, Netanyahu rendezvoused directly with Emirati President Mohamed bin Zayed. It was the first time such a bilateral meeting was publicly verified by both countries. Perhaps, then, the attempted terror attack timing isn’t a coincidence. The rumor mill has also been swirling that Kuwait might soon join the Abraham Accords. It’s not hard to see what is going on here. Before the Oct. 7 pogrom, Saudi Arabia — the de facto leader of the Arab world — was on the precipice of making peace with Israel. Netanyahu dedicated much of his September 2023 address to the United Nations General Assembly to the topic. Around the same time, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told Fox News’ Bret Baier “every day we get closer” to normalization with Israel. Peace seemed imminent. One of Hamas’ aims with its massacre was to derail Israeli-Saudi normalization. In that, Hamas was successful — for now. But in the long run, Hamas won’t be successful. Despite the setback, the House of Saud still knows that peace with Israel is an inevitability. We cannot allow this would-be terrorist copilot to be successful either. This is not the time to pump the diplomatic brakes. We might have to brace ourselves for additional attempted terror attacks, as cynics once again try to stop peace. Israel is undoubtedly prepared for that. The Arab states should prepare too. Israel should also reevaluate its aviation procedures. Perhaps Israeli authorities can help vet inbound and outbound commercial pilots. But the pursuit of regional peace must go on. There would be no greater tribute to the heroes of Flydubai Flight 1073 than that. Josh Hammer is the senior editor-at-large of Newsweek and host of “The Josh Hammer Show” and podcast. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

Duplin schools report gains despite low-performing designation Board members challenged the state’s grading system as the district showed improved proficiency and graduation rates By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Concerns about student test scores and reading rates were central to discussion at the October meeting of the Duplin County Board of Education. The board reviewed the 2025-26 accountability results, released publicly in September. The results showed that overall grade-level proficiency increased by 2.5% proficiency points, with gains across 85.7% of the district’s major student subgroups. Schools serving students through eighth grade recorded the most gains, while high schools saw declines in Math 1 and Math 3 but improvements in biology and En-

PAY PLAN from page A1 an increase of about 1.5 cents per $100 of assessed value. The revised plan replaces salary data compiled in June with a market-based pay scale benchmarked against neighboring counties, including Greene, Lenoir, Sampson, Pender, Jones, Brunswick and Craven. “My goal in doing this is to try to stop the bleed,” Hughes said. “We’re losing employees. Yes, we’re losing them to other counties. Some say because of money. So this is all in an attempt to try to fill vacancies, get us staffed in those key positions and keep the good employees that we have.” She said the county cannot match the salaries offered by some larger neighboring jurisdictions but hopes the new plan will make Duplin more competitive in attracting and retaining employees. Hughes identified paramedics and public health nurses among the critical positions affected by vacancies. Under the plan, employees earning less than the new minimum salary for their pay grade will receive an increase to that minimum. Employees already earning at or above the new minimum will not receive an automatic raise. Employees who have not met all formal qualifications for their positions may be paid up to 10% below the minimum until they meet the requirements. The plan also ties future pay increases to specific circumstances, including promotions, changes in duties, completion of required qualifications and board-approved cost-of-living adjustments or educational incentives. Unsworn trainees in the Basic Law Enforcement Training prehire program will start at 10% below the minimum starting salary for a deputy sheriff I and move to the full

glish 2. The district’s cohort graduation rate rose to 84% (up from 82.9%). Six of the district’s 13 schools met or exceeded growth expectations. However, because eight of 13 schools were designated as “low performing,” Duplin County Schools was categorized overall as a low-performing district. Board members questioned the state’s accountability system and whether its grades fairly reflect school performance. “I think the grades are not fair to public schools,” Vice Chairman Reginald Kenan said. “They are created to taint our schools and make people read about it in the paper in a way that does not show what we are truly dealing with in our schools. Some of these scores are not good, and we want to do better, but we know you work hard, and there is more work to be done.” Board member Pam Edwards said she looked forward to a study group that would ex-

starting rate after successfully completing training and obtaining certification. The plan also reclassifies 15 solid waste attendant positions as full time. The positions had been listed as “benefited part time” in the county’s human resources software despite employees working more than 38 hours per week. At the request of Chief Deputy Chuck Weaver, the plan distinguishes between sworn law enforcement supervisors and unsworn detention center supervisors, assigning them to separate pay grades. The largest increases will go to employees whose current salaries fall furthest below the revised minimums. The new minimum annual salaries include $32,760 for solid waste site attendants and event center staff, $37,924 for administrative specialists and tax assistants, and $46,097 for detention officers, paramedics and telecommunicators. The plan also reclassifies a vacant deputy county manager position as an internal operations specialist and updates job titles in several departments to better reflect current duties. The county estimates that raising the minimum salaries for all vacant, budgeted positions would represent an additional $788,000 annually on paper. However, Hughes said the adjustments would be covered by existing budget allocations for vacant positions rather than new tax revenue or additional appropriations. The savings are known as lapsed salary funds — budgeted money that remains unspent while a position is vacant. When a position is filled at the new minimum salary, the department can use those accumulated savings to help cover the higher pay. Hughes said the county will examine its workforce to identify positions that could be eliminated through attrition

amine the results on what she considered a fairer basis. Edwards and Board Chairman Brent Davis also questioned whether the state’s testing system fairly compares public and private schools. “Unfortunately,” Davis said, “the state requires testing. … I think it is completely worthless. … The way this data is put together by the state brings down student and staff morale … and everything is a moving target in it. You are never looking at the same data in comparison. “So much of this is not relative to what we do here. I keep hoping and praying that the state will change what they are doing here. … I refuse to let this define the hard work that goes on in our schools.” Davis also advocated changing the state’s accountability formula from a weighting of 80% proficiency and 20% growth to 80% growth and 20% proficiency. Kenan requested a future presentation outlining the district’s ef-

rather than layoffs. Removing positions from future budgets could generate ongoing savings to help offset the cost of the pay plan. She cited the county’s more than 600 budgeted positions and said officials would compare staffing levels with neighboring counties to identify potential efficiencies. “That’s a lot of employees for a county our size and for a budget our size,” Hughes said. “So we’re going to start looking at that … because we do have a lot of vacant positions.” Commissioner Justin Edwards raised concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers, noting that some residents who would help fund employee raises might not receive pay increases themselves. “Commissioner (Wayne) Branch spoke of the need for increased salaries for our county employees,” Edwards said. “I’m with you, but I also have to take into account the families that have to pay. We’re giving our employees a pay raise, but that family that’s got to pay for that employee may not be given (one). That part I don’t like.” Hughes also criticized previous personnel policies that she said had allowed raises without clear justification or additional duties. “Some of the things in Duplin have gotten out of whack simply because the personnel policy that was adopted by the board many years ago ... allowed people to receive pay raises without justifications,” Hughes said. “And nobody was held accountable for approving those salaries.” Under other business, commissioners approved an increase in the county’s contribution to the North Carolina Forest Service budget and a $6,490 change order to extend underground power to planned sites at the county’s AirPark.

forts to close achievement gaps. In other business, the board recognized Melvin Stevens, head painter in the Maintenance Department, as Employee of the Quarter. Stevens began working for Duplin County Schools in 2008 as a custodian at James Kenan High School. He became head painter in 2017. “He always lends a helping hand looking after our facilities and creating welcoming environments for students, staff, family and visitors,” Davis said. “The maintenance department is stronger, more cohesive and more successful with people like Melvin Stevens.” The board unanimously approved a consent agenda that included a $95,000 contract with Engineering Source of NC for intercom and school safety replacements, funded through lottery funds, as well as a Duke Energy Progress easement at Wallace-Rose Hill High School. Other approvals included contracts for international teachers, special education

services, school partnerships, arts grants, child nutrition supplies and software, along with various student field trips and fundraisers. Following an executive session to discuss personnel, confidential student information and attorney-client matters, the board unanimously approved Superintendent Daren Tyndall’s recommended personnel changes. Those included appointing Dena Hall, the district’s recently named Teacher of the Year, as assistant principal of Wallace Elementary School effective Oct. 7. “We are pleased to recognize Dena Hall as she takes this next step in her career with Duplin County Schools,” Tyndall said. “Her experience as a middle grades English language arts teacher has given her valuable insight into the needs of students, teachers and schools. Dena has demonstrated a strong commitment to our district, and we look forward to the leadership, perspective and dedication she will bring to her new position.” Edwards was nominated as a voting delegate for the North Carolina School Boards Association conference, scheduled for Nov. 9-11 in Greensboro. The meeting adjourned following the reports.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

EF2 tornado tore through Duplin County with winds reaching 125 mph By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal AN EF2 TORNADO with peak winds estimated at 115‑125 mph tore through parts of Duplin County on Sunday afternoon as a trailing cold front associated with the remnants of Hurricane Isaias moved through eastern North Carolina. The severe storm generated destructive winds damaging buildings, uprooting trees and downing power lines, according to the National Weather Service. Following ground surveys, the National Weather Service traced a continuous path of destruction through the county, documenting damage from N.C. 41 to areas near Teachey and Beulaville. “No injuries have been reported to us, and fortunately though some structures were damaged, the residential portions of those properties are still able to be occupied,” Duplin County Public Safety Director Matthew Barwick told Duplin Journal. Despite the severe damage in concentrated areas, nearby homes frequently sustained little or no damage, according to the National Weather Service. Surveyors attributed the uneven impacts to the tornado’s narrow, convergent path. Barwick said structural damage was concentrated around N.C. 41, near Cornwallis Road and along the 1800 block of Pasture Branch Road. In Wallace, the tornado lifted a two-car garage off its foundation, tearing its anchoring bolts from the concrete.

COURTESY CHAD HOXIE

Earlier Sunday, Wallace police reported significant damage near Teachey Road, where downed power lines blocked the highway. U.S. 117 North was closed between Teachey Road and Stallings Road as authorities urged drivers to avoid the area. Multiple trees were snapped at their bases, and Awaken Church sustained heavy roof damage. Metal poles anchored in concrete were also bent by the storm. In the Teachey area, surveyors documented a destroyed garage and numerous uprooted trees. The tornado lifted an attached garage and dragged a full-size pickup truck several feet. Damage was also severe about six miles southwest of Beulaville, where winds estimated at 125 mph ripped a feed silo weighing more than 1,000 pounds from its concrete anchors and flattened a nearby barn. Barwick noted that affected residents seeking recovery assistance can contact his office at 910-296-2160 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733‑2767 for information about local resources.

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VOTE from page A1 exception for certain decorative or seasonal flags. The proposed restrictions prompted discussion about how the rules would affect businesses trying to bring customers downtown. Joseph Merritt, owner of Honeycutt Pawn Shop on Main Street, spoke in favor of allowing businesses to use feather flags. For businesses seeking to draw attention from potential customers, the flags offer a visible way to advertise their locations and promotions, he said. “This has been brought up because of my feather flags,” Merritt said. “I understand what you’re trying to do. But I keep my flags up like they’re supposed to be. I keep them neat. When one of them is damaged or changes colors … I replace it.” Merritt pointed out that his flags do not hang over the sidewalk or street due to the grassy area in front of his business at the corner of Main and Railroad streets. “We keep making rules and we keep changing rules as we go, and I understand that the world is changing, but at the end

of the day we have a downtown that is starting to thrive a little bit, and it’s looking better downtown than it has in a long time.” Mayor Jason Wells raised the question of whether downtown Wallace should be treated differently from the rest of town, highlighting the challenge of balancing consistent sign regulations with the desire to protect downtown’s historic appearance. “Obviously downtown is an area that is important to all of us, and I guess the question before the board is, do you want to treat it differently than you would any other part of town?” Wells said. Fritz said the proposed changes grew out of questions about the existing rules and a need to clarify what types of signs and flags businesses may use for advertising. The discussion also touched on the importance of applying the regulations consistently so business owners understand what is permitted. Councilman Glenn Price spoke in favor of the flag restriction, though the council did not bring it to a vote. “My personal opinion is, if you’re gonna have a historic downtown, you should try to

maintain, as much as you possibly can, the aesthetic of the downtown,” Price said. “Otherwise, what’s the point of the designation? … I’m not sure that feather flags are the answer to bringing everybody downtown.” Pam Teachey, a downtown property owner and president of Cultivate Downtown Wallace, a local downtown revitalization group, said she was disappointed the council delayed its decision but remains hopeful the council will place restrictions on the flags downtown. “While I was disappointed the vote was pushed out another 30 days, I have faith our town council will move forward with a vote in November that supports the wishes of the Historic Downtown Wallace merchants, property owners and our citizens,” Teachey said in a statement following the meeting. “Decisions made today will impact historic downtown Wallace as we move forward with revitalization efforts. In light of the rapid growth headed to Wallace, I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping Historic Downtown Wallace special, inviting and the heart of our community.”

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DUPLIN SPORTS Bubble buster “We can beat anyone in the East.” Kevin Motsinger, WRH head coach

Tanner Williams’ touchdown with 10 seconds left gave Midway a 19-16 win over WRH By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WALLACE — Wallace-Rose Hill played well enough last Friday night to beat Midway. That’s a clear observation. Yet two scores in the final three minutes, including Tanner Williams’ scrambling touchdown with 10 seconds left to play, lifted the Raiders to a key 19-16 win in a game that affects both the Swine Valley Conference and the RPI marks in 3A. The loss is devastating to the Bulldogs, who dropped to 18th in the category used to seed

teams for the state playoffs. Midway is third, JK seventh and Whiteville the top seed in the East. It was a nine-spot slide for WRH. It also forces head coach Kevin Motsinger’s club into a must‑win game against James Kenan on Oct. 30. And if that happens, there would be a three-way tie atop the SVC. The Tigers will have an on‑field opinion on that rivalry game. Yet the veteran coach had nearly as many positive as negative things to say about his team’s season. After all, it was hard not to mention his defense. But on the flip side, he saw miscues that came back to haunt the ’Dawgs (4-3, 2-1). “The defense played at a very

high level, and we stopped a lot of stuff that no one else has stopped,” Motsinger said in crediting defensive coordinator Tyler Pugh. “I told our guys, ‘Midway is the most complete team in the conference, and go watch both films and then talk to me.’ “But … we can beat anyone in the East. We lost three games (ED 16-14, Clinton 7-6) by six points, and in all three, we beat ourselves. And we did that on two crucial drives late.” Williams, an NC State recruit who ran for 141 yards, engineered the winning drive with 1:16 left on the clock. He made an 11-yard completion on third‑and-7 in Midway territory and ran to WRH 37 on third‑and-15. Williams scored from the 27 on third‑and-1. Williams (17-141, 2 TDs) dodged and juked through several ’Dawgs before crashing See BULLDOGS, page B4

COURTESY THURMAN PARKER

Amir Lamont and ED didn’t give any ground to Trask.

Panthers-Horses fight for ECC title, No. 1 seed in 4A Big rewards are at stake when the powerprograms clash for the 36th time By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Seth Carroll, Tyreke Williams, Trenell Madina-Smith and Jonathan Robinson stuff Midway’s Wesley Tew.

BEULAVILLE — Through two games, play in the ECC has been more of a warmup than fierce competition for East Duplin and Clinton. The Panthers have a 100-0 advantage over Southwest Onslow and Trask. Clinton had a 78‑26 edge over Pender and South Lenoir. The league title is the reward Oct. 16 when the Dark Horses (5-2) visit East Duplin (6-1) at Brian Aldridge Field. “It’s a big game for the kids for obvious reasons and potentially for the conference and No. 1 seed in the (3A) East,” said first-year Clinton head coach Jason Arnette, who coached at Harrells Christian for six years and is a former Dark Horses player. “You just can’t say it isn’t a huge game. East Duplin coaches say big is the word for the Horses’ front lines. “They have a big defensive line, and the secondary runs to the ball,” said ED coach Battle Holley, who is 7-4 against Clinton since taking over in 2011. “They have a good quarterback and athletes. Last year we were lucky to leave there with a win.” See PANTHERS, page B3

Tigers flex early and often in SVC romp over Cougars JK scored on its first five possessions before the mercy rule was enforced By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WARSAW — James Kenan didn’t need fireworks before, during or after its 55-0 shellacking of Goldsboro last Friday. There were already enough shooting star performances as the Tigers cranked out nearly 500 yards of offense and the defense held the Cougars to four yards. JK has eight stops behind the line of scrimmage and two interceptions.

“We tried to have a dominant night to do what we are supposed to do,” said Tigers head coach Tim Grady. “In games like these, you have to challenge your kids. In a lot of cases, we tried to throw players into situations they had not been before. You don’t want them to be in a big moment against a team like Wallace-Rose Hill or deep in the playoffs without being prepared.” The Cougars (0-7, 0-3) showed little resistance as JK (6-1, 3-0) scored on its first five possessions. Kingston Dunn ran for 97 yards, Zavion Woodard 76 and Kentrall Morrisey 49, and each

had a pair of touchdowns. Quarterback Keyshawn Murray used his legs to run for 128 yards and a score and threw for scores to Morrisey and Terrell Allen. The win came a week after the Tigers whipped Midway to claim sole possession of the Swine Valley Conference. JK travels to Charles B. Aycock (2-5) on Friday before finishing up with league tilts against Princeton (3-4, 0-2) and WRH (4-3, 2-1) as the Tigers are two wins from their second-consecutive SVC crown. JK tied WRH for the title in ’24. See TIGERS, page B2

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JK’s Kingston Dunn ran for 97 yards and scored twice against Goldsboro.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 15, 2026

PREP ROUNDUP

TIGERS from page B1 The Tigers advanced to the East Region finals last fall and were eliminated in the fourth round the previous season. Both campaigns ended with 12-2 marks. This year’s group is cutting its teeth and learning on the fly. Fast scores Woodard scored from the 6 on the fourth snap of JK’s first possession after Morrisey bolted 43 yards. Murray then alertly fell on the Cougars’ onside kickoff. JK went 53 yards in 11 plays as Murray had two solid completions before finding Allen on first-and-goal from the 6. During the march Woodard and Murray had runs of 10 and 12 yards, respectively. Goldsboro ran two plays before Sherrod King nabbed an interception to set the Tigers up at their own 46. Dunn had a 19-yard scamper and Woodard an 11-yard push before Murray scored from the 21 to make it 21-0 with 2:56 to play in the opening quarter. A pick by Jamarion Dudley created the opportunity for JK’s next score.

“In games like these you have to challenge your kids.” Tim Grady, JK head coach It came like thunder. One play after Murray jetted for a first down, he connected with Morrisey for a 39-yard touchdown strike. Goldsboro moved the chains for the fifth time in its next possession before punting. Six action plays later it was 34-0. Allen started it with an 11‑yard catch. Woodard rumbled 34 yards and Murray for 14 and then hit Zyquan Twitty to move the ball to the 7. Dunn scored from the 4 two plays later. Woodard, Morrisey and Dunn added second scores. Woodard’s celebration was because of 15- and 10-yard efforts by Murray as the clock began running continuously via the mercy rule. A long run by Dunn let Morrisey score from the 19. Dunn had the final touchdown from the 5, which came a play after he made a 22-yard jaunt.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK’s Tyquan Twitty is averaging more than nine tackles per game.

MVP OF THE WEEK Gavin Garner