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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 36 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

Lem Brown Road closed for pipe replacement A section of Lem Brown Road in Duplin County will close through Friday while N.C. Department of Transportation crews replace a drainage pipe. The closure will affect the road on either side of Fountaintown Road near Catherine Lake Road. Crews will install a larger pipe designed to better withstand future storms ahead of a resurfacing project planned for next year.

Veterans Museum to offer concert, free meals The Duplin County Veterans Museum in partnership with the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce for the 106th Veterans Day celebration Nov. 7 is offering free meals to veterans from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Veterans can choose from sandwiches, burgers or barbecue. Gayen Pope and Sweetwater will perform a patriotic concert on the museum lawn at 1 p.m. The museum is located at 119 E Hill St. in Warsaw.

Nearly 4,000 vote early during first 6 days A total of 3,955 people voted during the first six days of early voting, according to the Duplin County Board of Elections. The county recorded 767 voters on the first day of early voting. Election officials remind voters that early voting will be available through Saturday. There will be no Sunday voting during this election cycle. Registered voters who do not have an acceptable photo ID can obtain a voter ID at the Duplin County Board of Elections office.

Murphy hosts Veterans History Project event U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) hosted his sixth Veterans History Project event at the Duplin County Veterans Museum to preserve local veterans’ stories for future generations last Monday. The project, established by Congress more than 20 years ago, collects, preserves and archives firsthand oral histories and remembrances from American veterans, spanning World War I through recent conflicts. Under the Gold Star Family Voices Act, immediate family members of service members who died as a result of their military service may also record their stories.

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ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL

A hometown moment to remember: Warsaw native Danielle Johnson, right, joins country star Lee Brice for a duet Saturday night at the Duplin Events Center, where she opened for Brice and Little Texas.

From small-town dreams to country’s big stage Danielle Johnson returned to the community that nurtured her musical dreams for a night of music and hometown pride By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — The road from Warsaw to Nashville brought Danielle Johnson plenty of miles from home, but Saturday night brought her right

back where it all began. The singer-songwriter returned to Duplin County to open for Little Texas and Lee Brice at the Duplin Events Center and perform a duet with Brice before about 2,000 concertgoers. For Johnson, who moved

to Nashville, Tennessee, six years ago to pursue a music career, the performance was a full-circle moment, with family, friends and hometown supporters cheering her on. “Coming from such a small town growing up, it’s so special because you have that support system,” Johnson told Duplin Journal. “Everyone knows everyone. So when you have a show, they all rally. … I have such a massive group literally

in the parking lot throwing like a parking lot tailgate party. It’s special because it’s such a tight community, and even people I don’t know are here supporting me.” For an artist whose journey has taken her from North Carolina to New York and Nashville, having so much of her support system gathered in one place made the hometown performance especially meaningful. “Coming here and opening up for Lee in my hometown is very, very special,” Johnson said. She described the experience as both “surreal” and a moment of pride, reflecting on how far she has come since she was a young girl. See DREAMS, page A6

Gold selected as James Sprunt’s interim leader during presidential search The North Carolina Community College System Office chief of staff will serve as interim president beginning Monday By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — James Sprunt Community College (JSCC) has named Kimberly Gold its interim president, effective Nov. 2. Gold will serve full time on campus in Kenans-

ville while the college conducts a presidential search for its next permanent leader. “I am confident that her extensive experience, collaborative leadership style and commitment to student-centered excellence will serve the college well during this transition,”

Jeff Taylor said in an official announcement shared with the campus community. Taylor has been serving as acting president since September following the resignation of Shannon Hair. Taylor thanked the community for its support and expressed confidence that Gold’s experience and leadership style will serve the institution well. “The outpouring of support from everyone has been truly appreciated and has once again

Carolina Strawberry Festival awards $10K in mini-grants Six Wallace-area organizations will use the funding to support community services, safety and local projects By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal THE CAROLINA Strawberry Festival gave back to the community in Wallace Oct. 19 with six mini-grants. “Through hard work, we have been successful in the festival and able to give back through grants to organizations that benefit the community,” Strawberry Festival board member Charley Farrior said. The grant presentations

are in their fourth year, and Farrior said the board cut costs in other areas to award $10,000 to six of the eight applicants. Due to rainy weather, this year’s festival was not as profitable as in previous years, but the board was determined not to let that stop its generosity. Board members Jason Wells, Kristin Padgett, Rob Taylor, Jackie Nicholson, Lisa Robinson, Kim Batts, Elizabeth Hall, Jamie Rich, Glenn Price, Amy Price, and Farrior reviewed and scored the applications together based on set criteria focused on promoting Wallace in a positive light and providing educational and recreational See GRANTS, page A2

“Through hard work, we have been successful in the festival and able to give back through grants to organizations that benefit the community.” Charley Farrior

reminded me that our people are what make this campus such a special place,” Taylor said. “Transitions can be challenging, but they also provide opportunities to demonstrate the strength of our college community.” Gold expressed her excitement about the appointment, citing the college’s long history of serving Duplin County and eastern North Carolina. See GOLD, page A3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

THURSDAY

CANDIDATE Q&A | NC HOUSE DISTRICT 4 — JIMMY DIXON

10.29.26

Dixon discusses priorities in House District 4 reelection bid

#149

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

“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

Loretta Carey Office Manager

NORTH CAROLINA House District 4 Rep. Jimmy Dixon is seeking reelection. In this candidate Q&A, Dixon discusses his approach to taxpayer spending, the importance of Duplin County’s agricultural industry, challenges facing the community and his priorities for the next generation. Dixon is running against Democratic candidate Vernon Moore, who was also invited to participate in the Q&A but had not responded to Duplin Journal by press time. Throughout your personal and professional life, you’ve had experiences that have shaped the way you lead and work with others. What is one lesson from your personal or professional life that will help you as a state representative? As I have said before, I was raised by my grandmother, with regular visits from my mother. They were of the hard-working age with the notion of: “Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.” That has engendered in me a keen sense of how I spend other people’s tax money. I have been and will continue to be a good steward of your tax money. What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges facing Duplin County over the next couple of years, and how would you work to address them as a state representative? The greatest challenge for Duplin County government and for government at all levels is the same as it has always

GRANTS from page A1 benefits to the community. The six organizations receiving grants this year were The Blessing House Ministries, Duplin Christian Outreach, Wallace Police Department, Pet Friends, Wallace Elementary School and Wallace Depot Commission. A representative from The Blessing House Ministries, said the organization received $1,500, adding that the funds will help the organization restore the house on the corner of Main Street and get started on its kitchen. Duplin Christian Outreach received $1,500 toward its backpack ministry program. The organization reported distributing 7,130 backpacks last year and 850 during the summer, along with food to help address food insecurity. “We know the need is great, and we realize it is not possible to do this without generous community support,

grants like these, our teams of volunteers preparing and packing food, and the collaboration we have with the school system,” Connie Perkins from Duplin Christian Outreach said. Wallace Police Department received $1,500 for security cameras. Chief James Crayton explained that the town has been working to update security systems and replace cameras that were lost when railroad crossing signs with cameras mounted on them were removed. “With this grant, we will be able to cover the entire festival area in camera coverage — not Flock cameras,” Crayton said. Pet Friends received $1,500 for its Pet Day in the Park. “Last year, we spent $26,000 to spay and neuter dogs in this area,” Pet Friends President Nicole Ramsey said. “We also have a pet food pantry in Wallace Presbyterian Church. We spent $10,000

t c e l E

The greatest strength of Duplin County is our hard-working farm families and the massive amounts of economical, safe, and reliable food and fiber we produce to feed and clothe ourselves and much of the rest of the world. I will never stop fighting to promote that heritage. Throughout our lives, we encounter moments that remind us why serving others matters. Can you share an experience that strengthened your commitment to public service, and how does that experience influence the kind of representative you hope to be for Duplin County? Yes, I can. Recently, we have experienced gross, vulgar and inflammatory language, cartoons, videos, Facebook posts and TikTok-produced material by a small group of characters and would-be political pundits with foul mouths who

“We’ve already had to use an AED twice, and once was on an athlete, so we know it is going to be used.” Candace Bizzell, Wallace Elementary athletic director this year boarding trying to get the animals out of the shelters. We do Pet Day in the Park with doggie pictures and all the things just to give back to the community.” Wallace Elementary School received $2,000 for an automated external defibrillator (AED). Candace Bizzell, the school’s athletic director, explained that the school had been trying to get a device dedicated to use in outdoor sports and playground areas because the school’s

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

Oct. 30 COURTESY

Jimmy Dixon can’t speak without using the most vulgar and offensive language soaked with the f-word. They reveal their intelligence to the very height of their ignorance. These dark and evil acts have motivated me more than ever to stay the course. Their lies have swiftly gone around the world, but truth is lacing up its shoes! When you think about the future of Duplin County, what do you hope will be different for the next generation of residents? How would your personal experiences and approach to leadership help move our community toward that vision? The future always starts with education. “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). I hope we can all understand that our greatest resource is children, all children. I will continue to lead in a manner that I hope will be beneficial to my grandchildren and to your grandchildren. I thank you for your support, and I ask you for your vote.

current devices are in the main building, a considerable distance from athletic areas. “We’ve already had to use an AED twice, and once was on an athlete, so we know it is going to be used,” Bizzell said. Wallace Depot Commission received $2,000 for the restoration of a postal car. “Wallace will be one of only five places in the U.S. that has a restored mail car, and we think that will draw people here to see it,” Farrior said. The mail car restoration has been an ongoing project with a total cost of $60,000, and the Strawberry Festival has awarded it a grant each year. “Last year, we replaced missing mail boxes and bought the 1947 car light fixtures,” Farrior said. “This year, we are redoing wiring, painting the interior, and hoping to open it to the public.” The presentation concluded with applause, photos and conversation.

WRITE IN CANDIDATE

WEAVER for SHERIFF

Every community has its own strengths, challenges and aspirations. What have you learned from the people and communities of Duplin County, and how will those insights shape your priorities as a state representative?

happening

Shred-A-Thon 9:30 a.m. to noon Residents can safely dispose of old tax records and bank statements at the event, helping reduce household clutter and protect against identity theft. For more information, call Duplin County Senior Services at 910-296-2140. 156 Duplin Commons Drive, Kenansville

Oct. 31 Haunted Museum 6-8 p.m. The Cowan Museum will host its annual Haunted Museum and trick-or-treat event. The free public event will feature decorated buildings and grounds, unusual sights in the botanical garden and free candy in the museum’s main building, the Kelly-Farrior House. 411 S. Main St., Kenansville

Trunk-or-Treat brings treats and fire safety 6 p.m. Meet Faison firefighters, collect treats and fire safety materials, and get an up-close look at fire trucks during the Trunk-or-Treat event at the Anne Stroud Taylor Faison Recreation and Wellness Center. 184 Park Circle, Faison

All Pink Tea Party 10 a.m. The event at Mt. Calvary Center for Leadership Development will bring the community together to recognize breast cancer survivors, remember those who have died from the disease, and celebrate the strength and courage of those affected. Admission is free, and all are welcome. Pink Tea Party attire is recommended but not required. 414 N. Norwood St., Wallace

Nov. 7 Warsaw 106th Veterans Day Parade and Celebration

Charles (Chuck) DUPLIN COUNTY

been: separating the needs of the people from the wants of the people, and avoiding the intoxicating power of spending other people’s money. Second, adjusting to the out-of-control inflation now facing us is certainly one of the greatest challenges. One of the greatest opportunities is to continue to reap the benefits of our amazing livestock industry here in Duplin County. Remember, food does not come from the grocery store!

DUPLIN

SPEAKING OF HIS 28 YEARS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT:

“It has been the honor of my life to serve Duplin County.” HONOR COMMITMENT

INTEGRITY RESPECT

7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Warsaw will host its annual event with a full day of activities honoring military veterans. Earl Rouse, a 10-year Army veteran and Warsaw resident, will serve as grand marshal. The day begins with a pancake breakfast at Warsaw Baptist Church at 7 a.m. Vendors and the Kids Zone open at 9 a.m. A VFW memorial service and the opening of the Veterans Museum are scheduled for 10 a.m., followed by the parade at 11 a.m. A concert begins at 1 p.m. The celebration runs until 3 p.m. and will include food, entertainment, vendors and family-friendly activities.

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

Wallace launches new alert system for residents opt in to receive general community announcements about upcoming events and activities, including things like the Christmas Parade, Concerts in the Park, or other Town-sponsored programs and events.” Prior to implementing CivicPlus, the town primarily relied on its website, Facebook page, utility bill newsletter and CodeRED for emergency notices. Some of those systems had become outdated, while others reached a limited audience. “We saw a need for more options that could supplement our current efforts and provide residents with more ways to receive information,” Taylor said. CivicPlus allows residents

CivicPlus will provide emergency alerts, service updates and information about community events By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal THE TOWN of Wallace has launched a new alert system called CivicPlus to help keep its residents informed and safe. “Residents can choose to receive emergency alerts, such as severe weather warnings, hurricane updates, winter weather advisories, road closures, and other urgent public safety information,” Town Manager Rob Taylor said. “They can also

to choose which notifications they receive and how they receive them: by phone call, text message or email. “The goal is to let residents know what’s going on around town and to give them the choice to receive as much or as little of that information as they want and how they want it,” Taylor said. The new system also translates messages into multiple languages, helping the town communicate with residents who speak different languages, including members of Wallace’s Hispanic community. In addition to translation, the system allows the town to tailor communications to those who need them. For example,

Hunt visits Warsaw farm to discuss rising agricultural costs The farm’s co-owner discussed input expenses, tighter consumer budgets and unharvested pumpkins

Lt. Gov. Hunt, right, discusses farming with local producers during a visit to AJS Farms in Warsaw Monday.

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — Lt. Gov. Hunt visited AJS Farms on Monday to inspect its seasonal pumpkin crop and meet with local agricultural producers about rising operating costs and market access. “For many families, the fall tradition of choosing a pumpkin to carve is becoming increasingly out of reach,” said Krystle Searles, AJS Farms co-owner. “Pumpkins are typically one of our most profitable crops, but rising farm input costs and tighter consumer budgets have created significant challenges this season.” Searles said higher production costs and tighter household budgets have led the farm to leave acres of pumpkins un-

COURTESY OFFICE OF LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR RACHEL HUNT

harvested, resulting in financial losses. “This Halloween, it’s the prices that are scary,” Hunt said. “I grew up on a farm, and I know how hard our farmers work and how much they mean to our communities. I’ve heard from farmers across North Carolina who are struggling with the rising costs of fuel, fertilizer and just about everything they need to keep their farms running.” Diesel prices in North Carolina reached $6.25 per gallon in September, according to

the governor’s office. Hunt said higher fuel costs increase expenses for planting, harvesting and transporting goods, potentially contributing to higher grocery prices. The state has temporarily waived penalties through Dec. 31 for certain agricultural uses of dyed diesel on highways. Legislation signed Oct. 9 also gave eligible users with a state exemption certificate freedom from from motor fuel taxes on that fuel. A separate measure suspended the state motor fuel tax through Nov. 30.

it can notify a particular area of the town about a water leak. Taylor credited Chip Roth, a fellow in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Lead for North Carolina fellowship program, with spearheading the project and bringing it to fruition. “We saw a need to improve on our communications but really didn’t have the staff capacity to work on it,” Taylor said. “We were fortunate to add an intern to our staff this year … and having that additional person on board helped to move the project forward.” He credited Roth with also creating an Instagram account and WhatsApp account for the town. CivicPlus is now active and will be used to communicate a wide range of information, including road closures, water main breaks, service interruptions, trash collection delays, severe weather updates, hurricane information, snow and ice advisories, and changes to

“The goal is to let residents know what’s going on around town and to give them the choice to receive as much or as little of that information as they want and how they want it.” Rob Taylor town hall’s operating hours or office closures. It will also promote community events, public meetings, recreational activities and other town programs. Residents can register for alerts at portal.civicplus.com/ NC-Wallace, through the registration link on the town’s website or Facebook page, or by texting WALLACENC to 38276. The service is part of the town’s annual budget, and it is free for residents to use.

GOLD from page A1 “I look forward to joining you in continuing that legacy while looking to the future,” Gold said. She also extended gratitude to Acting System President Monty Sullivan and the State Board for allowing her to step away from her System Office duties to lead JSCC during the transition. Gold brings more than two decades of higher education leadership experience within the North Carolina Community College System. She currently serves as chief of staff for the N.C. Community College System Office, a position she assumed in July 2019. She previously served as senior vice president and chief academic officer, was the fifth president of Robeson Community College and held several key roles at Isothermal Community College, including executive vice president, vice president for academic and student services, dean of business sciences and faculty member. “My work at the System Office has given me an even greater appreciation for what the community college sys-

COURTESY N.C. COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM OFFICE

Kimberly Gold tem means to North Carolina,” Gold said. “Central to that mission is supporting all 58 colleges so that every North Carolinian has access to a high-quality education that leads to a career that can support a family.” Gold holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a master’s degree in business administration from Western Carolina, and an education specialist degree and a doctorate in education from Appalachian State University.

SEPTEMBER MARRIAGES

: N E V O PR rusted

T , d e t s e T , d e i r T

from 73c to 58c te ra x ta ty er op pr ty un co • Lowered w county Detention ne r fo n io ill m 2 $4 ed at lit ci • Fa Center with NO tax increase • Unified board decisions

• Anthony Glenn King Jr., Pink Hill, and Lorissa Leigh Thompson, Pink Hill • Emma Lee Whaley, Pink Hill, and Mason Lane Marshburn, Wallace • Abelyn Nohelia Moreno Martinez, Magnolia, and Raymond Maldonado Maldonado, Magnolia • Thelma Diane Keil, Chinquapin, and Ritchie Pierce, Chinquapin

• Pamela Duran Lopez, Kenansville, and Armando Gabriel Martino, Kenansville

Re-Elect

Dexter Edwards

Duplin County Commissioner • District 2

November 3 General Election Vote early now through Oct. 31

• Anton Christopher Keith, Magnolia, and Jennifer Marie Murphy, Magnolia

• Robert James Anthony, Rose Hill, and Carla Dushell Boney, Raleigh

! " " # $ % & ' " " "

Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 27 marriage licenses for the month ending on Sept. 30, 2026.

• Andrew Sterling Hollingsworth, Faison, and Anna Renee Price, Mount Olive • Jhoanni Alexandra Flores Acosta, Wallace, and Wilfredo Bonilla Lara, Wallace • Hunter Andrew Hanchey, Wallace, Rachel Mae Walker, Wallace • Myranda Jayne Vogan, Beulaville, and Macon Glenn Smith, Beulaville • Robert Lee Edwards, Beulaville, and Carla Sue Drinkwater, Beulaville • Gracie Ann Mooney, Goldsboro, and Hayden Keith McGee, Pink Hill

• Dakova Amarylliz Shannon, Lancaster, and Danielle Domonique Land, Warsaw • Alexander Gonzalez-Ramirez, Kenansville, and Quemberlin Hernandez-Vail, Seven Springs • James Ivan Martin, Beulaville, and Diane Marie Eberly, Missouri • Kara Joy Michelle Nicol, Beulaville, and Joshua Ryan Simmons, Beulaville • Maranda Kailyn Dennis, Turkey and Billy Ray Varker, Turkey • Justin Henry Outlaw, Kenansville, and Heather Brooke Edwards, Beulaville • Jami Ann Futrell, Chinquapin, and Austin Wade Ross, Chinquapin • Ashlin Gabrielle McGuinn, Magnolia, and Hayden Mathew Adermann, Magnolia • Felix Antonio Romero Funes, Warsaw, and Dinora De Jesus Aviles Soriano, Warsaw • Ashley Elizabeth Sutton, Mount Olive, and Eric Kendal Holland, Mount Olive • Darwin Gustavo Cabrera Lorenzo, Mount Olive, and Ana Lidia Perez De Leon, Mount Olive • Trevor Lassiter Braswell, Kenansville, and Amberlee Sky Lesmeister, Kenansville • Mason Lee Houston Burgess, Pink Hill, and Alexis Dawn Futrell, Pink Hill • Michael Preston Price, Magnolia, and Cynthia Ann Strickland, Magnolia

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

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

COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON

When anonymity breeds contempt

Remember, lies do have speed, but truth has endurance.

ELECTION DAY for the 2026 midterm elections is just around the corner to which I can hear a resounding “Hasten the day” coming from voters, candidates and election workers. Additionally, the prevailing sentiment from all corners is that early voting is too long. However, early voting schedules and rules are a discussion for another day. In my last article, I said, “The next election is always the most important election” of our lifetime. From the experiences of the last 25 years, I know that the next election is the most important. The vitriol associated with elections gets more intense each election cycle. We have now been introduced to two additional distasteful political practices: anonymity and vulgarity. These twin characters are counterproductive and hinder informed voting. Some of the most effective adages and poetry have been produced by anonymous authors, so there are conditions where anonymity becomes a positive virtue. Good people characterize that type of anonymity. Vulgarity is never good or productive and should never be acceptable. Bad people characterize themselves by their vulgarity, cowardice, weakness and pettiness. Good people are energized to build up. Small-minded people are energized to tear down. Anonymity shields people from accountability. Want-to-be political pundits must hide their identities so they can inflict unchecked hostility on their victims. Sometimes they even try to use levity in the

form of cartoons to mask their disdain for those who attack. Most of us who serve know we aren’t perfect. Though we are flawed in some ways, we are open and trying to serve in various thankless elected offices that others are more than willing to criticize. A major flaw of anonymous people is that they mistake vitriol and bitterness for wisdom or wit. Unchecked, they incite meanness and fan the fires of those who mistake vulgarity for real traits of wisdom and wit to get people’s attention. The popular sensation of gross people using the f-word has recently reached epidemic levels in Duplin County. Additionally, the unfettered use of the cyber arena allows evil influences to harm their intended victims without physical contact. Anonymity is becoming an expanding and abusive privilege. Vulgarity used over and over desensitizes people to the finer traits of respect, goodness and clean thinking. The slang language used in reference to our God-given reproductive functions is the ultimate offense to God Himself. Organizations or political parties that foster or ignore such language by those holding positions of influence within their structures risk having their historical character, nobility and effectiveness damaged in the public’s eyes. Vulgar and anonymous people are actually dishonest with themselves and with those they are trying to influence. The natural man or woman, to have a positive effect, must restrain themselves from the evil influences of the devil.

Oscar Wilde said, “If you want to see who someone really is, look at what they do when they are given a mask.” A modern-day philosopher said, “People often create fake, catfish or anonymous accounts to go online and say harmful things. … They become comfortable behind the screen until they eventually cross legal boundaries.” The anonymous person sees themselves as a 10; they just forget to insert the minus sign. The ambitions of vulgar people are a mile wide but only an inch thick. They think they are songbirds singing tunes the world wants to hear. Actually, they are vultures and birds of prey that need to be avoided. They are not well-intentioned whistleblowers. Yes, lies do travel around the world while truth is strapping on its boots. Yes, cartoons seem cute and humorous, but real life is not a cartoon. Yes, boots are being strapped on, and truth-bearers will tell the rest of the stories. Remember, lies do have speed, but truth has endurance. Legal boundaries have been flirted with — even in private lives — that will have consequences. We the people should always seek out “the rest of the story,” accurately inform ourselves, and vote for men and women who have and will continue to prove themselves openly and without vulgarity. Rep. Jimmy Dixon represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

The FDA should grant Americans the right to try new cancer treatments

What makes this predicament doubly foolish and inhumane is that many of these experimental treatments were developed in America.

EVERY FEW MONTHS, a 19-year-old woman from South Carolina boards a plane to London. She isn’t going sightseeing. She’s going to get her next dose of a cancer treatment that was invented in the United States, developed by an American company and credited by her doctors with clearing a brain tumor which other surgeons had refused to touch. She was diagnosed with glioblastoma at 16. It is the most common and most lethal brain cancer, the disease that killed John McCain and Beau Biden. Her tumor came back so aggressively after her first surgery that doctors stopped operating. This was a death sentence. But one surgeon at the University of California, Los Angeles, agreed to perform the invasive surgery. Afterward she began a personalized immunotherapy made from her own tumor tissue and her own immune cells. Today her scans are clear, and she’s in college. Her family has health insurance, but they must pay for every flight and every dose out of pocket, with help from money raised from strangers online through GoFundMe. Why London? Because in Britain, a licensed physician can prescribe a promising treatment that for no rational reason has not been approved even on a limited and trial basis in the U.S. Today there are dozens of promising drugs and therapies for multiple forms of horrific and crippling diseases: cancer, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and diabetes, to name a few. Patients are literally dying waiting for the chance to use these treatments on an experimental basis. At the very bare minimum, they give

suffering patients hope. But not in America. So much for “my body, my choice.” But why not let the patient, not Food and Drug Administration regulators, decide the most important decision of her life — how to stay alive. This is a cruel way for America to make health treatment decisions. I have no idea whether this particular cancer treatment really works, but in the case of a deadly disease, why not let patients try whatever alternative treatments they want? Isn’t it sad that in the land of the free, individuals have fewer treatment choices than most other nations in the world? By taking an experimental drug or treatment, these disease sufferers are being thrown a potential lifeline while also advancing the medical discovery process by acting as test cases. This is doing future patients a favor. President Donald Trump has signed “right to try” laws, but the FDA remains an impediment. The waiting times to get approved are long, which means the tumors in millions of patients get larger. The risk-averse FDA seems wedded to its old way of doing business, with interminable testing in clinical trials while patients die waiting. There are three steps the FDA and the White House can take to help expand right-to-try and avoid often-fatal bureaucratic delays. First, for rare diseases, adopt a test of “plausible success.” If there is compelling evidence that a treatment could work, let patients try it. Second, expand “compassionate use.” A physician treating a patient with a terminal diagnosis should be able to prescribe a

promising investigational therapy with the patient’s informed consent. The doctor would notify the FDA rather than ask its permission and drown in paperwork. Third, if a drug or treatment is approved in a developed nation, allow patients in the U.S. to use it with a different designation than “FDA approved.” This leaves the decision of whether to try the drug up to the patient, not the bureaucrat. Sometimes in medicine, the best and often most unexpected results come from the trial-and-error process. It’s a sad and cruel development that Europeans and South Americans can gain access to the latest breakthroughs in medicines while Americans can’t. Rich families can afford the costs of flying across the world to receive these treatments, but middle-class and poor families often can’t. What makes this predicament doubly foolish and inhumane is that many of these experimental treatments were developed in America. The Trump administration has an opportunity to show that “Make America Healthy Again” means letting American patients use American breakthroughs at home. The pathway has been announced. The president has already shown he cares about patients like this young woman. Now the FDA and Department of Health and Human Services have to deliver. No American should have to buy a plane ticket to London to get an American cure. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

Lifetime of service leads way at Warsaw’s Veterans Day Parade After decades of military and community service, Earl Rouse will take the lead in a hometown tradition he remembers growing up By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal FOR EARL ROUSE, Veterans Day has long been part of life in Warsaw. Growing up on a small dairy farm, he remembers the annual parade as one of the year’s biggest events, with marching units, military equipment operated by the Army and National Guard, vendors and barbecue served by the fire department. On Nov. 7, Rouse will serve as grand marshal of Warsaw’s 106th Veterans Day Parade, honoring his military service and decades of community involvement. “I am very honored,” Rouse said. At 80, Rouse has spent decades serving his country and his community. His local involvement has included volunteering with the Warsaw Planning Board, the Duplin County Veterans Memorial Museum, Calvary Baptist Church and the local fire department. Rouse graduated from James Kenan High School in 1964 and worked as a night computer operator before deciding to join the military. In July 1965, Rouse called his friend Allen Benson, who was serving at Fort Bragg, with plans to join the Air Force. Benson went with him to the recruiting office in Morehead City, where they found just one recruiter on duty — a Coast Guardsman. The others, they were told, were at lunch. Rather than wait around, the two friends joined the Coast Guard recruiter for a meal. By the time lunch was

over, Rouse had changed course. The prospect of good duty stations, including the possibility of returning to North Carolina or southern Virginia after boot camp, sealed the deal. At 19, he enlisted in the Coast Guard, beginning a journey far beyond Duplin County. Rouse’s first assignment was aboard the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Bering Strait, based in Hawaii. He later served in Guam and at Loran Station Yap in the Western Caroline Islands, followed by a short assignment at Con Son Loran. He eventually returned to the United States, serving in Groton, Connecticut, and at the Aircraft Repair and Supply Center in Elizabeth City. Rouse said the assignments gave him opportunities to visit places he might not otherwise have seen. They also helped shape the approach to work and life that he carried with him after his military service. “One thing that I learned with the Coast Guard was discipline and commitment,” Rouse said. Rouse returned to Warsaw in 1971 and took a job with General Electric in Wilmington. He married, joined the Coast Guard Reserve unit in Wilmington and continued serving while building his civilian career. He spent 30 years with General Electric and retired from the Coast Guard Reserve after 27 years of total service. “I was a volunteer fireman for many years,” Rouse said. “After retirement, I accepted a volunteer position on the town’s Planning Board and served in that capacity for 25 years.” He also spent many years as curator of the Duplin County Veterans Memorial Museum, helping preserve the history of those who served. For Rouse, the importance

“One thing that I learned with the Coast Guard was discipline.” Earl Rouse of military service extends beyond the individuals who wear the uniform. He hopes younger generations will recognize the contributions of those who have served, those currently serving and those who gave their lives. He also believes military service offers a range of opportunities for people with different skills and interests. “Military service may not be for everyone, but there is a job you can perform in the service, somewhere between one of the military branches,” Rouse said. Rouse’s selection as grand marshal follows a nomination process organized for the annual celebration. Carolyn Quinn of the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce said the process begins in May, with nominations gathered through August before an individual is selected and invited to participate in the November parade. The Veterans Day celebration will begin with a pancake breakfast at Warsaw Baptist Church at 7 a.m. Vendors and the Kids Zone will open downtown at 9 a.m. A Veterans of Foreign Wars memorial service will be held at Veterans Park at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a concert at 1 p.m. The festivities will continue until 3 p.m., with food, entertainment and family activities. The Warsaw parade is the oldest continuous Veterans Day celebration in the United States and was designated North Carolina’s official Veterans Day Parade by the General Assembly in 2016.

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Earl Rouse, left, longtime curator of the Duplin County Veterans Memorial Museum, holds a plaque presented to him at a dinner at the Country Squire Restaurant on April 16 honoring his years as the museum’s curator. Standing with him are his wife, Marie, and the museum’s board president, Earl Hardy.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

DREAMS from page A1 Long before Nashville, Johnson was a shy girl whose school music teacher recognized something special in her voice at age 8. Johnson said she had not imagined herself performing in front of an audience. But when she agreed to sing “Castle on a Cloud” from “Les Misérables,” something changed. “I remember getting on stage and I was just like immediately like this is where I’m meant to be,” she recalled. “It was the most incredible feeling, kind of like discovering at 8 years old that this is who I am,” Johnson said. That first performance helped Johnson realize music was what she wanted to pursue. Her parents drove her to Raleigh three days a week for voice lessons. “I have the most amazing support system in the world,” she said. “They travel to Nashville all the time. Anywhere I

“My family picked up their life for six months and moved to New York. So when I say I have a support family, I truly do. That’s a gift.” Danielle Johnson

PHOTOS BY ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Danielle Johnson go, they go. My mom literally has a boot on right now from surgery, she’s still with crutches. She’s still here. Every round, they never miss a show.” Her family’s support continued as her career took her beyond North Carolina.

“I started going to New York when my music teacher here was like, ‘I have an agent in New York I want you to meet.’ So from 11 years old, I started auditioning, and we were in New York constantly.” At 12, she performed in the Broadway production of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at Madison Square Garden, an experience she still remembers with pride. “Being at Madison Square Garden was the most incredible experience of my life,” Johnson

said. “My family picked up their life for six months and moved to New York. So when I say I have a support family, I truly do. That’s a gift.” Johnson later began visiting Nashville as a teenager, meeting co-writers and recording demos before moving to Music City six years ago. As a songwriter, she draws on personal experiences and emotions putting her life on paper. When those experiences resonate with listeners, she said, the process becomes even more meaningful. Despite her travels and professional experiences, Johnson said her hometown remains an essential part of who she is. “You can’t take Duplin County out of me, that is for sure,” she said. “I’ll always be so proud to be from here.” She said returning to Duplin County also meant seeing firsthand how deeply her community continues to support her. Johnson believes growing up in a small town can provide

a strong foundation for chasing ambitious goals, particularly when a community rallies behind someone working to achieve them. Johnson encouraged young dreamers to keep their families close and appreciate the people who believe in them. “Stay true to yourself and don’t ever let anyone tell you that anything’s too big,” she said. “Everything is fully possible as long as you have the motivation and the drive to keep going.” Johnson is not slowing down. She said she has been writing music and taking meetings as she works toward future opportunities and grows her fan base. “We’ve got a lot of exciting things for 2027,” she said. “You will hear more of Danielle Johnson, for sure.” As she continues building her career in Nashville, Johnson said she will always be proud of the community that first encouraged her to sing.

DUPLIN SPORTS Big-game hunting expedition “It’s going to be a clash of two defensive coordinators.” Tim Grady, JK coach

The Tigers and ’Dawgs brace for a showdown for the SVC trophy By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WALLACE — There will be no favorite, underdog or secrets to exploit when James Kenan invades the Jack Holly Football Complex on Friday for its annual regular-season bash against Wallace-Rose Hill. Don’t expect anything less than a smashmouth gridiron war when the two rivals meet for the 78th time. “It’s going to be a clash of two defensive coordinators,” said JK coach Tim Grady, whose Tigers have won the past three games after losing 13 consecutive from ’15 to ’24. Indeed, both schools will look to run the ball and pass

it when needed or as a strategic ploy as JK’s former defensive coordinator, Tyler Pugh, matches up against Grady, and defensive coordinator Tiger Lee Sutton tries to game plan against WRH head coach Kevin Motsinger, who coached the Tigers for three seasons. JK (7-1) is coming into the showdown as the No. 4 RPI team in the 3A East, while WRH (5-3, 3-1) is No. 8. Midway (7-1, 3-1) is fifth. A JK win would give the Tigers the Swine Valley Conference title for a second consecutive season. A WRH win deals up a three-way tie for the title, and even then the Bulldogs will not push past either school in the RPI ratings, which determine playoff seeds. Sutton’s defense will have its work cut out in stopping running back Adrian Glover,

who went over the 1,000-yard mark during a 35-20 win over Rosewood. Pugh is in the same position tracking quarterback Keyshawn Murray, who is third in the Duplin Journal area in rushing with 762 yards. He’s also a threat to throw the ball and has found a target in running back Kentrell Morrisey. Also on the watchlist is running back Zyquan Twitty, who ran for 189 yards during a 35-15 win over Princeton. Yet the Tigers will have to deal with a ’Dawgs D-line anchored by Adrian “Miami” Glover that includes Khay’jre Murphy, Jonathan Robinson and Trenell Medina-Smith. JK’s D-linemen Alex Vasquez and Jaylon Smith will be pushed to hold their ground. “I love to run the football, and Tyler is a great run See TROPHY, page B3

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

James Matas and Noah LeBlanc combined for 22 tackles during a 34-6 win over Pender.

Panthers crush Devils, one win from ECC crown East Duplin has outscored league foes 169-27 in four games By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Every WRH-JK game is a physical war. JK won the last three and WRH the previous 13 to lead the all-time series 47-30.

BEULAVILLE — It took less than two quarters for East Duplin to crush Pender last Friday at Brian Aldridge Field. Noah LeBlanc scored twice, and Keeshon Mckinnie, Hayes Lanier and Zachary Cruz added scores as the Panthers beat Pender 34-6 to move within a win of their second ECC title in as many seasons. It was the fifth straight over the Patriots, who have won just once in six tries in the all-time series. ED (8-1, 4-0) has outscored league foes 169-27 this season. LeBlanc ran for 109 yards on 16 carries and made 11 tackles, which included a sack. Mckinnie pushed for 84 yards on nine totes and had 10 takedowns and an interception. Cruz joined the double-contribution club with 64 rushing yards, a 23-yard reception, five tackles and an interception. ED ran for 298 yards and limited the Pats to 147 yards of total offense. How dominant was the Panthers defense? See CROWN, page B2

Gators dominate second half to push through Rebels ND hosts rival Hobbton after dropping its third long-distance CC game By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal LAKE WACCAMAW — Last fall, North Duplin swept the new schools — West Columbus, East Bladen and East Columbus — added to the Carolina Conference via realignment by the NCHSAA. All three were wins at H.E. Grubbs Field. The clock turned full circle with a 23-8 loss last Friday on the Gators’ turf, which was coupled with setbacks on the road

to the Vikings (36-16) and Eagles (40-35). Coincidentally, the three road trips are the longest on the Rebels’ schedule, making for nearly two-hour bus rides back to Calypso with plenty of time to reflect. ND (5-3) joins three other league foes with 2-3 marks heading into regular-season finales Friday. The Rebels host a CC “middle team” Friday when Hobbton comes to town for a longtime rivalry matchup. While Lakewood and East Bladen own the top two spots, third place is wide open. Yet the ND-Hobbton tangle has the promise of a bragging-rights war, especially in the Rebels’

rebuilding season after strong campaigns from ’23 to ’25 in which ND went 29-6. Yet ND can’t have a repeat of their performance in Lake Waccamaw. “We didn’t execute well on either side of the ball,” said ND head coach Hugh Martin. “We gave up some big plays because we were out of position and because of their speed and athleticism.” Tale of two halves ND didn’t play stellar in the first half against EC yet still led 8-7 at the break. See GATORS, page B4

50 Years combined experience serving Duplin County! Cyndi Hatcher: 910-289-1291 Dora Jernigan: 910-271-1382

Cole Grady and ND were limited to a season-low 110 yards on the ground by East Columbus.

Katie Jernigan: 919-222-3150 Curt Simpson: 910-290-2194

MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

PREP ROUNDUP

Big-kill Randleman slips past Panthers in 4A The 2A Rebels and 3A ’Dawgs also exited in the second round to end solid seasons By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Keeshon Mckinnie ran for 84 yards and a score, made 10 tackles and squeezed his second interception of the season against Pender. CROWN from page B1 Pender (3-6, 1-3) converted on 2 of 15 third-down attempts, while ED was 9 of 11 and 2 of 2 on fourth down. LeBlanc ran for first downs on third and fourth down during the 14-play, 58-yard opening score. Quarterback Brayden Jones hit Nickolas Davis to set up his fourth-down conversion. Mckinnie scored from the 2. After a three-and-out, Mckinnie’s punt return put ED in business at the Pender 36. Jones hit Lanier for a 23-yarder, and Lanier scored from the 9 the next play to up the margin to 14-0. Three snaps later, Darwin Bonilla intercepted the pass of Austin Deal. LeBlanc scored from the 35 two plays later to up the lead to 21-0 at halftime. The senior’s next score was set up by a 44-yard twist by Mckinnie. LeBlanc stuffed it into the end zone on the next play from the 4. Cruz scored from the 39 for ED’s final tally. Short cruise to title? ED travels to face South Lenoir (3-6, 0-4) on Friday. The Blue Devils are 0-19 vs. ED since

2004. During that time, they have been over .500 twice (6-5 in ’09 and 7-5 in ’04). ED has won the last three games by a total of 165-0. The closest SL got was a 27-21 loss in ’07. The Blue Devils went 1-29 from ’24 to ’26. They stand in the way of ED’s second title in a row. It would be head coach Battle Holley’s seventh conference flag since coming to Beulaville in ’11. The Panthers also took conference honors in 1987, 1997, 2001, ’02, ’09 and ’10. Panther paws Semaj Scott led ED in tackles with 12, which included a sack and two takedowns for lost yardage. Amir Lamont had nine tackles. Pender moved the yardstick seven times, completing 2 of 11 passes with 65 yards in penalties. LeBlanc has run for 888 yards and averaged 8.1 yards. He has five games of at least 100 yards and 16 touchdowns. Mckinnie is at 589 yards (6.8) with nine scores and Cruz 382 yards (6.7) with three touchdowns. ED is the No. 1 RPI school in the East in 4A and third statewide. T.W. Andrews is second in the East, followed by Clinton, West Craven, Reidsville and Southwest Edgecombe.

MVP OF THE WEEK James Matas East Duplin High School

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EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ND coach Hugh Martin was unable to get the Rebels to win the war in the offensive and defensive trenches against East Columbus.

“We didn’t execute well on either side of the ball.” ND head coach Hugh Martin the Wildcats took five consecutive from ’18 to ’22, while the Rebels captured seven straight from ’11 to ’17. Yet the series has been an 11-11 draw since ’04. Hobbton (2-7) is an explosive offensive team despite several close losses (4438 to Lakewood, 46-40 to East Bladen). Head coach and offensive coordinator Adam Scronce is a master of the Wing T and leads with sophomore running back Javarus Johnson (229-1,763, 17 TDs) and follows up with wide receiver Amir Tate (99-599, 6 TDs) and quarterback Braxton McLamb (39-64, 461 yards, 9 TDs, 5 picks) as playmakers. But while the Wildcats are averaging 32.1 points, they are giving up 35.1 points. “Offensively, they execute

as well as anyone around,” said Martin, who has a 164128 career mark in 25 seasons. “They are a very good football team.” ND’s offense counters with Cole Grady (70-435, 3 TDs), Pope (84-423, 5 TDs), Messiah Cooper (27-249, 4 TDs), DJ Carlton (48-244) and Quintanilla (48-253, 5 TDs) in a running back-by-committee approach by offensive coordinator Brad Rhodes. ND enters as the No. 8 RPI school in the 2A East. Hobbton is 16th. Lakewood and East Bladen are fifth and sixth, respectively, and Tarboro the obvious No. 1.

Ronald Ramirez

Rebel lines ND’s top tackler for the season, Quintanilla, led ND in tackles with six. Damarion Smith and Ben Kelly had five apiece. Senior Elias Romero recovered a fumble caused by Jackson Lee and Rimi Villalon. ND ran for 110 yards, and its longest beyond Quintanilla’s was seven yards by Carlton.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

James Kenan, soccer NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000034-300 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Quinton Andrew Frazzelle, Amber Leigh Frazzelle and Kimberly Jones Frazzelle to Tim Williams, Trustee(s), which was dated January 31, 2023 and recorded on February 6, 2023 in Book 2021 at Page 514, Duplin County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the Note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, NC R.E. Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the Note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale, on November 5, 2026 at 2:00 pm, and will sell to the highest bidder the following described property situated in Duplin County, North Carolina, to wit: SEE ATTACHED EXHIBIT A INCLUDING A 2022, TRU MH SPECTACULAR 47TRSl6763SH22S, 16X76, WITH A SERIAL NUMBER OF SRB041980AL LYING AND BEING IN LIMESTONE TOWNSHIP, DUPLIN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND BEING DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Tract A, containing 0.865 acres, more or less, from that survey entitled “Boundary Survey for Jeffrey E. Jones and wife, Gina S. Jones” by Johnny J. Williams Land

26SP000083-300 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DUPLIN COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Brandon Jacob Powell and wife, Jennifer Hansley Powell to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), which was dated October 22, 2018 and recorded on October 22, 2018 in Book 1881 at Page 608, Duplin County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on November 10, 2026 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Duplin County, North Carolina, to wit: Located in the Town of Wallace, Island Creek Township, Duplin County, North Carolina. Beginning at a point where the Eastern edge of Sloan Street intersects the Southern edge of Westbrook Street, said point being the Southwest intersection of said streets and running thence with the Southern edge of Westbrook Street South 77 degrees 11 minutes West 130 feet to an iron pipe; thence South 13 degrees 55 minutes East 150 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 77 degrees 11 minutes East 130 feet to an iron pipe in the West edge of Sloan Street; thence with the Western edge of Sloan Street North 13 degrees 55 minutes West 150 feet with the point and place of beginning. Being all of Lots 16 and 17, Block 121, as appears upon the official tax map of the town

Surveying, P.C. dated October 27, 2021 and recorded in Book 33, Page 72. Parcel ID: 07-2541 Title to the above described property conveyed to Jeffrey E. Jones and Gina S. Jones, husband and wife from Tony Ray Benson; Erica D. Taylor; Ashley Casteen Barnette and Trina Barnette; and Toni Rae Benson by Deed dated September 24, 2021 and recorded September 28, 2021 in Book 1971, Page 149 or Instrument No. N/A. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 506 N NC 111 HWY, Beulaville, NC 28518 A Certified Funds Check deposit (No Personal Checks, No Cash) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other prior encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Quinton Andrew Frazzelle, Amber Leigh Frazzelle and Kimberly Jones Frazzelle. An Order for Possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. §45-

21.29, in favor of the purchaser and against the party(ies) in possession of the property, by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the Notice of Sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least ten (10) days, but not more than ninety (90) days, after the sale date contained in the Notice of Sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [N.C.G.S. §45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee or substitute trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee or substitute trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. NC R.E. Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee By: __/s/ Jason K. Purser___________________ Jason K. Purser, Attorney Crawford & von Keller, PLLC 710 Military Cutoff Road, Suite 250 Wilmington, NC 28405 Phone: (910) 363-1637 Fax: (910) 363-1650

of Wallace as repairing and adopted May, 1947. Being the same land as described in Deed Book 576, Page 66 and Book 574, Page 101, all of the Duplin County Register of Deeds office. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 505 W Westbrook Street, Wallace, NC 28466. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Brandon Jacob Powell and Jennifer Hansley Powell. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of

sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-08710-FC01

Ronald Ramirez has returned to the soccer field with a vengeance after missing his junior season. The JK midfielder had scored 12 goals and handed out 20 assists for 18-2 James Kenan, which began the week as the No. 1 team in the 3A East. Ramirez has charted a point in 17 matches, scoring a pair three times and having three matches in which he delivered five points. He’s averaging nearly a goal and an assist per match and 2.4 points when he leaves the pitch. While the JK-WRH match for the Swine Valley Conference title is past this week’s deadline, even a loss couldn’t taint an otherwise superb season. JK has dedicated the campaign to longtime coach Mitchell Quinn, who died of cancer midway through the season.

NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#26E000466-300 The undersigned, GEORGE EDWIN HAWES, JR., having qualified on the 22ND DAY of OCTOBER 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of GEORGE EDWIN HAWES, SR., deceased of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 29TH Day of JANUARY 2027, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 29TH Day of OCTOBER 2026. GEORGE EDWIN HAWES, JR., EXECUTOR 850 W. CHARITY RD. ROSE HILL, NC 28458 Run dates: O29,N5,12,19p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#26E000426-300 The undersigned, ANDREW RIDDICK, having qualified on the 29TH DAY of SEPTEMBER 2026, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of SHARON SUTTON RIDDICK, deceased of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 8TH Day of JANUARY 2027, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 8TH Day of OCTOBER 2026. ANDREW RIDDICK, ADMINISTRATOR 516 N. CENTER STREET WARSAW, NC 28398 Run dates: O8,15,22,29p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#26E000447-300 The undersigned, MARY JAMES ASHLEY, having qualified on the 9TH DAY of OCTOBER 2026, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of WILLIAM TERRY JAMES, deceased of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 15TH Day of JANUARY 2027, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 15TH Day of OCTOBER 2026. MARY JAMES ASHLEY, ADMINISTRATOR 3359 NC HWY.11 S TEACHEY, NC 28464 Run dates: O15,22,29,N5p

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 29, 2026

obituaries

Mavis Turner Mercer , age 82, died Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at Davis Community in Wilmington. She is preceded in death by her husband Ted Mercer and grandson Caleb Ivy Mercer. Mrs. Mercer is survived by

daughter, Rhonda Mercer of Beulaville; sons Chris Mercer and wife Georgia of Kinston, David Mercer and wife Amanda of Pink Hill; brother Troy Alex Turner and wife Linda of Pink Hill, sisters in law, Marie Turner of Goldsboro, Peggy Turner of Beulaville, Melinda Turner of Pink Hill; three grandchildren Seth Mercer and wife Victoria, Holt Mercer and wife Kurstin, Keelia House and husband Garrett; nine great grandchildren, Addison Griffin, Ava Mercer, Fallon Mercer, Riley Mercer, Scarlett House, Sully House, Hallie House, Christopher Burkett, Drew Bostic; and a special family friend Gail Rogers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fayetteville Community Church’s building program for “ The Barn”, 2010 Middle River Loop Fayetteville NC, 28312 or Hearts of Hope Crisis Pregnancy Center, 884 Hwy 241, Pink Hill NC, 28572.

Jimmy Ralph Dixon

Roger “Perks” Vernon Tharpe

Jan. 27, 1944 – Oct. 23, 2026

Sept. 26, 1944 – Oct. 23, 2026

Jimmy Ralph Dixon, 82, of Rose Hill passed from this life to his eternal rest on Friday, October 23, 2026. He was born on January 27, 1944, in Duplin County. He was the son of the late Benjamin and Mary Young Dixon. Jimmy was also preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 62 years Gail Barnhill Dixon and his grandson, Andrew Dixon Murray. Being one of 10 children, Jimmy was preceded in death by his siblings Pete Dixon, Leroy Dixon, Virginia Long, Flavi Albertson, Adell Culbreth, Gladys Hope, Edna Dixon and Nell Barnhill. Surviving to cherish his memory is his two devoted daughters Wanda Darden and husband Anthony and Wendy Murray and husband Frank, all of Rose Hill; granddaughters, MaryKate King and husband Garrick of Angier and Ginny Hope and husband Nelson of Rose Hill; great grandchildren JimiPaige Hope, Remington Hope and Maddox King; sister Judy Dixon; special friend Ricky Hope and wife Mona of Rose Hill; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Jimmy dearly. Jimmy was the best husband, daddy and granddaddy anyone could ask for. He was a simple man who enjoyed the simplest things in life, but his greatest joy was his wife Gail and his girls. He was a great provider and saw that his girls had what they needed and much of what they wanted. It has been said that Jimmy was an ‘ole cowboy’ who loved guns, whittling and ‘quick-draw’. He loved the Lord and lived a great example before his girls and grandchildren. Since Gail went home to be with Jesus, Jimmy has never been the same. He missed her so much and wanted to be with her. On Friday, his prayers were answered. Jimmy is in the presence of Jesus but also, he has been joined together again with the one person he loved more than life itself – Gail. We all know that today he is no longer sick, lonely or homesick, but he is the happiest and healthiest he has ever been. His family and friends will surely miss him, but they are comforted knowing that he is once again happy and with Jesus and Gail. Graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Riverview Memorial Park in Watha with Jimmy’s son-in law, Frank Murray Jr. officiating. Memorial gifts may be sent to Bethel Wesleyan Church, 2635 NC Hwy 11, Rose Hill, NC 28458 You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our Guestbook above. Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace is serving the Dixon family.

Roger “Perks” Vernon Tharpe, 82, of Kenansville, North Carolina, passed away Friday, October 23, 2026, and has been finally reunited with his wife, Brenda Brown, who predeceased him in 2009. Perks was born September 26, 1944, in Browntown, Virginia, son of the late Vernon David and Edith Virginia Rudacille Tharpe. Perks was also preceded in death by three brothers, Eddie, Jack and Tommy Tharpe. Perks never met a stranger and would always talk to anyone he came in contact with. He always had the time to take a niece, nephew or many of his “adopted” kids hunting, fishing or for a walk on his stilts as he was working on the many miles of sheetrock that he finished in his lifetime. His laughter, quick wittiness and jokes will be long remembered for many years to come. He will be greatly missed by his family and numerous friends. The graveside memorial service to celebrate his life is set for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, in Devotional Gardens, 1260 NC 24 & 50 in Warsaw, NC, with Jimmy Johnson officiating. Family will greet friends following the service.

Mavis Turner Mercer March 14, 1944 – Oct. 21, 2026

Oct. 20, 2026 Dawn Rogers Moore, 63, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. She was a loving wife, daughter and sister. Dawn was a nurse and owner of DMORCO. She enjoyed playing softball in her earlier years. Dawn was preceded in death by her father, Will Rogers Sr. and sister, Clara Rogers Criste. Dawn is survived by her husband, John Moore; mother, Mary Ellen Rogers; sister, Robbin Rogers Parker; and brother, Will Rogers Jr. (Debby); step-children, Tracy Duarte and Tony Moore; two step-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and her special fur baby, Petunia. Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Oak Ridge Memorial Park in Pink Hill. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Lucky Cats or your local SPCA.

QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

Janice Faye Grady

Wilbert Moore Jr.

Annette Dixon Henderson

Jan. 30, 1952 – Oct. 20, 2026

Feb. 1, 1952 – Oct. 20, 2026

Jan. 7, 1930 – Oct. 22, 2026

Janice Faye Grady went home to Heaven on October 20th, 2026. She was born on January 30th, 1952, to Louis Albert Grady and Eva Grace Holland Grady. She retired after 30 years of service from Caswell Center and was a member of Tabernacle Free Will Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Malcolm “Snookie” Grady and Edward Earl Grady; brother-in-law Dennis King; niece Melissa King; and nephew Scottie Grady. A lifelong lover of animals, she is survived by her fur babies: Chewy, Nubbins, and Ms. Kitty. She is also survived by her sister Carol King, sisters-in-law Sue Grady and Joyce Hardy; nephews Jimmy Lee Grady, Sam Grady, Eddie King (Lisa), and Sammy Hardy (Emily); Great nieces and nephews: Amber Brown (Travis), Danielle Davis, Dean Daughety (Morgane), Desirea Hamson, Megan Kelly (Josh), Charity Cavitt (Andrew), Miranda McLawhorn (Ethan), PercyLee King, Dustin Grady, Tara Piner, Carrie Johnson, Jessica Grady and Victoria Rogers; Great-great nieces and nephews: Jaxson Shivers, Mikayla Brown, Jadon Brown, Dakota Cavitt, Blakelynn Pike, Maddie Caliguire, Lyndon Cavitt, and Morgan Davis. Visitation will be held from 11:-12 on Saturday, October, 24, 2026 at Tabernacle Free Will Baptist Church in Kinston.. A Memorial service will follow visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Tabernacle Free Will Baptist Church, 1003 W New Bern Rd, Kinston NC 28504.

Mr. Wilbert Moore Jr. (June), age 74, son of the late Wilbert Sr., and Janet Middleton Moore, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel, 472 Wells Town Road, Rose Hill, North Carolina. There will be a public viewing one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Middleton Cemetery, Highway 11, Kenansville, North Carolina. Mr. Moore is survived by his step-father, Elisha Enoch, of Kenansville, NC; one aunt, Hortense Moore of Arverne, New York and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends that will miss him dearly. The family will receive friends at 113 N. Church Street, Kenansville, North Carolina. The funeral service is Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 4 p.m. followed by visitation at Serenity Funeral Home in Beulaville. A graveside service is Monday, October 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at East Duplin Memorial Gardens, Beulaville

Annette Dixon Henderson of Wallace, NC, passed from her earthly life at midmorning on Thursday, October 22, 2026, while in the Wallace Nursing & Rehabilitation Center of Wallace. Born on January 7, 1930, she is the daughter of the late Willie and Lula Mae Jackson Dixon. Also preceding her in death are her husband—Marion Robert Henderson and her sister—Willie Mae Southerland. Left to cherish her memory are her children—Marian Ann Henderson Vann (James Wayne) of Willard, Robert Allen Henderson (Phyllis) of Wallace, and Franklin Mark Henderson (Larry Martin) of Wallace; grandchildren— Michelle Leigh Vann of Willard, Bradley Wayne Vann (Melissa) of Wallace, Amanda Henderson Moss (Daniel) of Nashville (NC), Monica Henderson Price (Edwin) of Wallace, Genesis Henderson (Cyrus Diaz) of Leland, and Bianca Henderson of Leland; great grandchildren—7; great great grandchildren—5; siblings— Gordon Dixon (Barbara) of Harrells and Thil Worley (Clessy) of Potters Hill. Early life for Mrs. Annette was in the Wallace area where she was known by many due to her outgoing and happy personality. She loved everyone and everyone loved her as well. She was known as “Smiley” at Day Springs and Wallace Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. As a charter member of Poston Baptist Church, she served in a great many positions in the church including deacon, choir director and Sunday School teacher. Her greatest pleasures were serving her Lord, an annual autumn trip to the Tennessee mountains, trips to Topsail Island with her four grandchildren, family get-togethers, and cooking. A service to celebrate her life is set for 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Poston Baptist Church in Wallace, with visitation in the fellowship hall at 12:00 pm. Officiating will be Pastor Chris Jarman. Family requests, rather than flowers, that contributions be considered to the Wallace Christian Academy of Wallace.

Julius David Duff June 6, 1956 – Oct. 20, 2026

Xoelani K’ior Brinson Nov. 30, 2024 – Oct. 16, 2026

Dawn Rogers Moore