The Wallace Fire Department is fully operational and responding to emergency calls, according to Wallace Town Councilman Glenn Price. While the town’s contract with Teachey Fire Department remains in e ect through March 23, Wallace re ghters and trucks are now responding to all calls within town limits. Price noted that former members of the department who chose to reapply have responded positively. The reorganization comes after the retirement of Chief Sammy Marshburn and the departure of several long-serving volunteers, which left the department in disarray. According to Price, the council determined that restructuring was necessary to restore operational order and ensure town oversight of the department, which had historically operated autonomously. Price emphasized that public safety remains the top priority and that all actions were taken in consultation with the State Fire Marshal’s o ce.
Free preventive dental care for children
Kenansville
The N.C. Oral Health Section, in partnership with the Duplin County Health Department, will o er a nocost preventive dental clinic for children ages 6 to 14 from April 6-10. Services include dental sealants, uoride varnish and oral health education. The clinic will be held at the Duplin County Health Department at 340 Seminary St. in Kenansville. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 910-296-2130, and walk-ins are welcome.
Panel discussion
Magnolia
A panel discussion on mental health and the prison system will take place on Saturday, April 4 from noon to 2 p.m. at St. James AME Zion Church at 448 Carroll St. in Magnolia. The discussion will explore the experiences of prisoners with mental illness, strategies for supporting reentry, challenges faced by correctional o cers, and approaches to rehabilitation and education. Guest speakers include Sheri - elect Eric Sutherland, Parole O cer Jason Szybka and Judicial District Manager Ashley Dail among others.
Main Street comes alive for Faison Farmers Parade
Hundreds of people lined Main Street in Faison on Saturday for the annual Farmers Parade and Festival. Turn to A6 for more.
Mount Olive board strips mayor of key powers
The closed session may have violated the state’s Open Meetings Law
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
MOUNT OLIVE — In what was a contentious meeting that had citizens in the audience challenging the board at times, the Mount Olive Board of Commis-
$2.00
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
THE WALLACE TOWN Council approved the rezoning of a 149-acre tract behind Walmart for a mixed-use planned unit de-
sioners held a special meeting on March 12. Immediately after the opening procedures, Mayor Pro Tem Delreese Simmons asked Mayor Jerome Newton to recuse himself from the meeting, which Newton refused to do.
The board voted unanimously to have Newton recused, which resulted in Newton asking town attorney Carroll Turner if the action was legal. After Turner advised Newton that it was, New-
ton stormed out of the meeting. In what became a meeting requiring Turner to frequently tell the board how to proceed, the commissioners voted for Simmons to lead the meeting. Simmons then called for a closed session, which resulted in several comments from the audience asking for the reason for a closed session.
River Road, where the development will be located, was already challenging.
velopment during a March 12 public hearing despite concerns from residents about increased tra c on River Road.
Wallace Planning Director Rod Fritz explained the proposed development would consist of single-family homes, apartments, townhomes, recreational areas, a greenway and a dog park. He added those were all part of a master plan for the community.
Fritz responded that he had spoken with division engineers from the N.C. Department of Transportation and a consultant hired by the developer. He said the developer is required to produce a transportation impact analysis (TIA) which is underway and is examining 16 intersections in the area.
During the public hearing, one resident expressed concern over the tra c the new development could bring to the area. He added that tra c coming o of
Services, community concerns spark debate in Warsaw
Grace periods, confusion and fees drove the billing policy discussion
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
THE WARSAW BOARD of Commissioners tackled multiple community issues at its March meeting, including the renewal of the town’s garbage contract, the recycling program and utility billing policies, and the discussions were marked by heated debate. The board discussed the renewal of the town’s garbage collection contract with Tons of Trash, which expires June 30. The company proposed a standard annual cost-of-living adjustment of roughly 5% tied to the Consumer Price Index, and
town manager Lea Turner said the town must notify the company by the end of the month if it intends to rebid the contract.
Recycling was a major topic. Turner noted many recyclables are contaminated with food, wet paper or plastic lids, making them nonrecyclable.
“In my personal opinion, I don’t feel we have enough citizens that are taking advantage of the service,” said Turner.
Tensions escalated as residents voiced concerns about missed recycling pickups and the cost of the service. At one point, law enforcement had to intervene and the board called for a break.
The board considered whether to remove recycling from the contract or invest in enhanced
“I
Lea
Turner, Warsaw town manager
After the public hearing, the council voted to approve the rezoning request. In a request for budget
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
The seat normally occupied by Mount Olive Mayor Jerome Newton is empty after the town board voted to recuse him from a specially called meeting on March 12.
O ce Manager
CONTACT US
O ce Phone: 910 463-1240
To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
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Terri c Kids recognized at Harrells Christian Academy
Harrells Christian Academy celebrated its third nine-week period “Terri c Kids” on March 12. Teachers nominated 13 students in grades K-5 who consistently demonstrated responsibility, respect and caring behavior. The students honroed are, from left to right: (bottom row) Callie Jane Cottle, Palmer Campbell, Henry Jordan, Emma Weeks, Henry Hobbs and Charlotte Rouse; (top row) Brea Spencer, London Rivenbark, Evie Simmons, Emily Hall, Kyle Talley and Cate White, and Ella Barefoot (not pictured).
WARSAW from page A1
citizen education. One commissioner cautioned that eliminating recycling could con ict with state and federal land ll reduction mandates.
Utility billing sparked strong debate. The current policy allows residents to carry an unpaid balance for up to two months before service disconnection. Turner said the exibility often causes confusion, with residents paying one bill thinking they are fully caught up only to nd another bill already issued. She suggested a return to a one-month cycle to simplify billing.
“I just think if we go back to a one-month policy, it would be a lot less confusion and a lot easier for everyone,” said Turner. “You’re making it more difcult for citizens to pay instead of working with them because now they have two bills outstanding plus a $75 nonpayment fee, so I really don’t know that we have done our citizens a service by giving them two outstanding months at one time and another charge.”
Commissioner Ebony Willis-Wells opposed shortening the timeline, noting the grace period helps households, especially those on xed incomes, avoid undue nancial burden.
Another issue raised during the debate involved the number of monthly service disconnections, which the manager
estimated typically ranged between 30 and 50 households. Board members asked how those numbers compared to previous years and whether the policy change had improved or worsened the situation.
Mayor Wesley Boykin stressed that the board should rely on historical data and factual analysis before making a major policy change. To gather more input, he recommended sta review the policy further, consult the School of Government and seek feedback from a small resident focus group. Members agreed utility cuto s should not fall on federal holidays, a change that could be implemented regardless of other adjustments.
The board voted unanimously to table the utility policy discussion until a later meeting, likely in April, so sta can bring back more detailed recommendations. Members emphasized that they wanted a solution that was both fair to residents and manageable for town sta . The mayor encouraged the public to send comments to the sta if the public wanted to provide input about needs that they would like the board to address during the budget workshop.
Later in the meeting during board member comments, several commissioners re ected on the broader tone of the meeting and the challenges facing the board. Some members expressed frustration about crit-
Feds move to dismiss charges against Army veteran who burned American
The Army veteran’s case highlights First Amendment protections for ag burning
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department has moved to dismiss charges against a North Carolina Army veteran who set re to an American ag near the White House last year to protest
ag near White House
President Donald Trump’s executive order on ag burning. Jay Carey, 55, of Arden in Buncombe County, who has said he served in the Army from 1989 to 2012 and was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, was arrested on Aug. 25 after he set re to a ag in Lafayette Park, which the National Park Service oversees. Earlier that day, Trump signed an executive order requiring the Justice Department to investigate and
prosecute people for burning the American ag. Carey was charged with two misdemeanors that aren’t focused on the act of burning a ag: igniting a re in an undesignated area and lighting a re causing damage to property or park resources. He pleaded not guilty in September. Friday’s ling did not explain the decision to move to dismiss and the U.S Attorney’s o ce for the District of Columbia did not immedi-
icism and speculation circulating in the community and on social media.
Multiple commissioners acknowledged that communication within the board itself needs improvement. One member openly admitted feeling embarrassed by how disagreements have sometimes been handled publicly, emphasizing that while the board members may have strong personalities and passionate views, they all share the same goal of improving the town.
Willis-Wells shared feedback she received from residents who have been trying to sell their home, noting that potential buyers expressed concerns about the community’s reputation, citing actions they’ve observed from the board — issues the board is actively working to address.
“As we continue to grow, we want people to want to come to Warsaw because Warsaw is a beautiful community,” said Willis-Wells.
The mayor’s closing remarks focused heavily on rebuilding trust and improving relationships among o cials. He also emphasized the need for adherence to policies, and collaboration among board members and sta .
After nal remarks, the board voted to enter a closed session to discuss personnel and legal matters under North Carolina law.
ately respond on Saturday to an email seeking comment.
The Supreme Court has ruled that ag burning is a legitimate political expression protected by the Constitution. Trump’s order asserted that burning a ag can be prosecuted if it “is likely to incite imminent lawless action” or amounts to “ ghting words.”
“I set out to demonstrate that the First Amendment is sacred and that no administration has the right to supersede our constitutional rights,” Carey said in a statement from the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund. “I was targeted for federal prosecution because of that. I am glad to stand with all those who are ghting for our fundamental rights and hope that this victory can help the next person who takes a stand.”
DUPLIN happening
March 20
Dinner theater brings gospel, comedy
7 p.m.
Cista Lueeeze’s Brunch House Theatre Inc. will present the VIP Dinner Theater production of “When God Is in the Building" at The Sampson County Expo Center. Written by local playwright Jacqueline Gathers, the gospel dramedy follows Pastor Lutha and his stepdaughter as their choices lead to unexpected consequences and redemption. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner begins at 6 p.m., and a live preshow starts at 6:15 p.m.
414 Warsaw Road, Clinton
March
Gardenpalooza
21
The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina hosts Gardenpalooza. The Alice in Wonderland-themed celebration will feature garden tours, games, food, drinks and family-friendly activities to welcome spring. Costumes are encouraged.
985 Johnson Nursery Road, Willard
April 4
Easter Egg Hunt
1 to 3 p.m.
Ana’s Angels will host its second community Easter egg hunt at the Greenevers Community Building. The event will include games, prizes, food, an egg hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny.
494 Clinic Circle Drive, Rose Hill
It shows people that “the Constitution still matters,” Carey said when reached by telephone on Saturday.
Mara Verheyden-Hilliard, one of Carey’s lawyers and fund co-founder, said the prosecution shouldn’t have been brought.
“The government’s attempt to criminally punish a protestor based on expressive conduct targeted for prosecution by presidential order posed a grave threat to First Amendment freedoms,” Verheyden-Hilliard said in a statement. “The government’s about-face is a critical vindication of those rights. This case also lays the groundwork for defending those across the country who are targeted for vindictive prosecution by the Trump Administration in an effort to silence and punish viewpoints it doesn’t like.”
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Dilapidated home sparks plea for assistance
Public health, safety and planning took center stage at the
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
THE MAGNOLIA BOARD of Commissioners held its regular March meeting last week, addressing community concerns, municipal operations and ongoing planning e orts for the town.
During the public comment period, Tracy Carmel addressed the board seeking urgent assistance for her father, a lifelong Magnolia resident with schizophrenia, who is living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.
“His house is dilapidated. … It is infested with mold,” Carmel told the board. “I’ve exhausted all of my personal resources and nances.”
Despite her repeated e orts to intervene — including contacting FEMA and health care providers — her father refuses to leave the home.
“It’s a ected his health. He can barely walk now,” she ex-
plained. “I beg and plead with him, he will not leave the house. I have left Magnolia many times in tears because I live in a four-bedroom house and there is more than enough room for him to come there, but he will not leave.”
Carmel described her father’s living conditions and highlighted the severity of the neglect, noting that the toilet has caved in. Despite these conditions, her father resists intervention.
“If you saw it in person, you wouldn’t even want to go inside,” said Carmel. “I paid someone to take all the trash out, and there were at least 50 bags of garbage. … I hate to see him live like that. In his mind, he thinks it’s OK.”
Carmel concluded by noting the delicate balance of respecting her father’s wishes while ensuring his safety, describing the situation as being “between a rock and a hard place,” and urging o cials to help not only for her father’s health but also for community safety due to mold hazards. She pleaded for assistance from the board to nd resources to secure a safe and habitable home.
Rose Hill board considers water, sewer rate increase
The proposed 6% hike would help cover operational costs
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
ROSE HILL — The Rose Hill Board of Commissioners voted to consider an increase in the town’s water and sewer rates during its March 10 meeting. The increase would be less than $5 for the town’s average residential customers. The last water and sewer rate increase in Rose Hill was in March 2022. The new rates will be voted on during the board’s June 9 meeting when the board also considers the new scal year budget.
Town Administrator Angela Smith updated the board on several nancial matters, highlighting the need for the water and sewer rate increase to cover the costs of operating the town’s system. Smith initially recommended a 7% increase, followed by annual increases until a total 20% increase was reached. After a lengthy discussion about the potential impact on residents, the board approved a 6% increase for the rst year, with incremental increases planned annually. Despite the adjustment, Rose Hill’s water and sewer rates would remain below the
major subdivision nal plat ling fee of $150 and a fee to be determined for required public hearings and legal advertisements.
The budget also recommends a 25-cent-per-page fee for faxes from Town Hall, which had previously been provided at no charge.
The public utilities department is requesting funds to purchase two Bobcat zero-turn mowers for $23,263 to replace two mowers that are experiencing mechanical issues. The department is also requesting to purchase a Kubota tractor at $50,611 to replace one purchased in 2001.
The recreation board requested a budget allocation of $40,000 to build and install a new double-sided batting cage at Jimmy Jerome Park.
The board set a public hearing for May 12 to allow public input on the proposed budget. Adoption of the budget, with any changes, will be considered at the June 9 board meeting.
In other town business, work could begin at any time on a new subdivision on Church Street after the board approved the nal plat submission from the developer Chasten Wallace. The subdivision will feature six lots on the 1.86-acre property.
The Rose Hill board approved a contract with the CPA rm Thompson, Price, Scott
Mayor Dawn Ward expressed empathy, relating her own experience caring for a family member who recently died and acknowledging the di culty of addressing such cases. Ward requested Carmel’s contact information for follow-up.
In other business
Ward issued a proclamation recognizing March as Women’s History Month, highlighting contributions of women in leadership, community development and public service.
In related action, the board unanimously approved a motion to amend the o cial name of the town’s conference room from “Mayor Gwen Van” to “Mayor Gwendolyn B. Van Conference Room,” re ecting the formal name used during her tenure.
Following a recent break-in at the old town hall building, town o cials said steps are being taken to improve security and prevent further unauthorized access. According to Police Chief Jerry Wood, the incident involved entry through a bathroom, though nothing was reported stolen. In response,
the town manager indicated the building would be “secured up,” with e orts focused on reinforcing access points and limiting entry. A request was made by the board to resume more detailed monthly reporting on code enforcement activities.
Town Manager Charles Banks provided a nancial update, reporting $126,676 in operating funds and just over $503,000 in the town’s investment account. He stated that the town’s nancial position remains stable, with revenues meeting expenses and modest reserves continuing to grow.
Banks also provided updates on ongoing public works activities, including maintenance efforts and the town’s waterline replacement project.
“The guys that are doing the construction part are doing a great job on the cleanup and trying to be very respectful on letting us know ahead of time when the water’s going to be shut o ,” he said. “Please be patient, give us a little grace and give them a little grace. I think at the end of the job we’re gonna have a really good outcome once this whole proj-
ect is done, replacing all these lines.”
Ward encouraged residents to sign up for CodeRED, the town’s noti cation system, which provides alerts via phone, email, or text. Residents can register by texting AlertsMagnoliaNC to 24639.
“We use that for emergency updates. We don’t spam you, but use it if there are things that we feel like the residents need to know, announcements, that kind of stu ,” said Ward.
The mayor provided an update on the town’s strategic planning e orts, including a recently completed workshop focused on developing a veyear plan. Materials from the workshop, including a presentation outlining key focus areas and initiatives, will be made available to the public via the town’s website and social media platforms. Commissioners reported the community center is expected to be completed later this spring, and the board reviewed the timeline for the upcoming scal year budget, with additional workshops scheduled and a public hearing set for May 26 at 6 p.m.
Olive
the Board of Commissioners
MAYOR from page A1
Duplin Journal asked Simmons if he would clarify the legal reason for the closed session. Simmons replied, “No.” When citizens in the audience continued to challenge Simmons about the reason for the closed session, he said, “We’re going into closed session because of an item you guys don’t know about.”
Commissioner C.J. Weaver eventually cited the state’s Open Meetings Law and said they were going into closed session to discuss a “personnel matter.”
After a lengthy closed session, the board returned to open session where, again, Turner had to advise them that a vote was required to go back into open session.
The board then voted to pass a resolution that stripped Newton of several duties and privileges within town government before Town Clerk Sherry Davis read the measure aloud.
Under the resolution, Newton is no longer authorized to sign checks, contracts, deeds, leases or grant documents, ne-
gotiate agreements, appoint members to committees, set the board’s agenda or direct town employees. He was also removed from town bank signatory cards. The resolution further restricts Newton’s access to the Town Hall Annex to Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon unless authorized by the board.
A source who asked to remain anonymous told Duplin Journal the issue stemmed from the mayor signing deed agreements with nonpro ts using the former Carver High School building, now owned by the town. Newton is president of one of those nonpro ts, the Carver High School Alumni and Friends Association. Newton signing agreements with the organization on behalf of the town raises potential con ict-of-interest questions, and the documents had apparently not been approved by the town board. In an interview with Duplin Journal the day after the meeting, Rebecca Fisher-Gabbard, assistant professor of public law and government at the
UNC School of Government, said the closed session to discuss issues regarding the mayor appeared to violate the state’s open meetings law. She said the board does have the right to a closed session to discuss town personnel issues, but the mayor would not fall under that category in the subsection dealing with personnel.
“However, that subsection explicitly says that a public body may not consider those same things, the quali cations, competence, performance, character, tness, appointment or removal of a member of the public body,” Fisher-Gabbard said.
Adding more confusion to the events on March 12 was that more than one special meeting notice was sent to the media and the public that day, announcing specially called meetings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. When the audience challenged the board on the notices, board members said the 2 p.m. notice was not valid.
As daytime highs begin to rise for spring, the political temperature in Mount Olive appears to be rising as well.
Magnolia board meeting
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Mount
Mayor Pro Tem Delreese Simmons presides over the specially called meeting of
on March 12.
THE CONVERSATION
Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN
The social Gospel
“If one is truly devoted to the religion of Jesus, he will seek to rid the Earth of social ills.”
IN DECEMBER 1955, members of the Montgomery (Alabama) Improvement Association met with city o cials and bus company representatives to negotiate an end to the bus boycott. Mayor Tacky Gayle called on a white pastor to speak, who lectured Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that ministers should refrain from participating in political acts. King responded, “I can see no con ict between our devotion to Jesus Christ and our present action. In fact I see a necessary relationship. If one is truly devoted to the religion of Jesus, he will seek to rid the Earth of social ills. The Gospel is social as well as personal.”
When the General Assembly debated the North Carolina State Lottery Act in 2005, I expressed my opposition in our church newsletter. I cited biblical, theological and stewardship reasons, and historic positions of my denomination opposing lotteries as poor public policy. A church member told me that I and the church had no business getting involved
in such public issues once they reached the General Assembly. I asked, “Do you mean any issue is o limits for comment by the church once it is in the realm of legislative actions?” When he said, “I don’t know about that,” I told him I didn’t understand his logic. He admitted he didn’t either, but he still didn’t think the church should get involved in public issues.
Ministers are feeling very stressed in our current political climate. Colleagues have lamented, “If I say anything from the pulpit, I get accused of being partisan and mixing religion and politics. If I don’t say anything, I feel as if I am not being faithful to the Gospel message.” One friend posted on her Facebook page in January, “As followers of Christ, we are citizens of two kingdoms ... the Kingdom of God in Christ and the earthly kingdom in which we presently live. The problem is, we get our kingdoms mixed up. Our allegiance to Christ must supersede all other allegiances — political or otherwise
— and it must direct and inform everything that we do and say. The only way to know what Christ desires of us is to read what he has told us in the gospels and to submit ourselves daily to the direction of God’s Holy Spirit in prayer.”
The apostle Paul wrote (Romans 12:2), “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect.” We often take that to mean our religious and public/political lives must be kept separate. However, I think Paul means our lives are to be shaped by God’s ways, not the ways of the world, precisely so we can seek to rid the Earth of social ills. Yes, the Gospel is personal, but the Gospel is social in its demand that we bring our faith to bear on the issues in our communities that threaten to deny others their freedoms and opportunities.
Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
Obama’s race-hustling eulogy at a race hustler’s funeral
(Obama) repeatedly whipped out the race card, injecting racial division into matters large and small while maintaining the image of a racial uni er who would heal America’s deepest wounds.
FORMER PRESIDENT Barack Obama
long ago surpassed the Rev. Jesse Jackson and the Rev. Al Sharpton as America’s most in uential race hustler. The country got a reminder when Obama spoke at Jackson’s funeral even though Jackson’s son urged the speakers “not to bring their politics” to the service.
Obama said: “Every day you wake up to things you just didn’t think were possible. Each day, we’re told by those in high o ce to fear each other and to turn on each other. And that some Americans count more than others.” Same old Obama.
In his 2004 Democratic National Convention speech, he famously declared, “There is not a Black America and a White America and Latino America and Asian America — there’s the United States of America.” It was the line that launched him and made millions across party lines believe he could bridge divides.
Obama won the presidency with just over 52% of the popular vote, but he entered the Oval O ce in January 2009 with a nearly 70% approval rating. Polls in late 2008 and early 2009 showed both black and white Americans believed race relations would improve under his leadership. By the time he left o ce in 2017, polls showed majorities or pluralities of both blacks and whites thought race relations had gotten worse.
In Obama’s eight years as president, he repeatedly whipped out the race card, injecting racial division into matters large and small while maintaining the image of
a racial uni er who would heal America’s deepest wounds.
In 2009, at the beginning of his presidency, he declared that the Cambridge police “acted stupidly” in arresting Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. Obama turned a copjust-doing-his-job encounter with the belligerent Gates into a national “teachable moment” about alleged racial pro ling by cops against blacks.
In 2012, about a young black man shot and killed by a self-described neighborhood Florida watchman, Obama said, “If I had a son, he’d look like Trayvon.” A jury found the man who shot Trayvon Martin not guilty, and jurors who spoke publicly said race had nothing to do with the encounter.
In a 2014 speech before the United Nations, Obama invoked the case of Ferguson, Missouri, to enlighten the world about America’s supposed deepseated problems with race relations. Later, the “hands up, don’t shoot” narrative about Michael Brown’s death turned out to be a complete lie, and the o cer was exonerated.
Obama embraced Black Lives Matter’s police-are-out-to-get-blacks rhetoric despite evidence that, if anything, cops are more hesitant to pull the trigger on a black suspect than a white one.
In 2015, he proclaimed racism is in America’s “DNA.” Although the media for the most part fawned over Obama, rst lady Michelle Obama insisted her husband
su ered from unfair media coverage because of racism.
Obama invited fellow race hustler Sharpton to the White House more than 70 times, more than any other “civil rights” gure. And, for good measure, Obama even argued that “a theoretical case” could be made for slavery reparations to be paid by nonslave owners and to nonslaves.
From the beginning of his presidency until its end, Obama stoked resentment, divided Americans by skin color and kept the race grievance industry alive and well oiled. The man Americans hired to unite us became the victicrat-in-chief, a title his Jackson eulogy shows he retains.
Trump-hating media still gives Obama a pass no Republican could ever dream of receiving. Imagine a Republican president doing even half of what Obama did: routinely injecting race into controversies, cozying up to a white Sharpton-like gure and rapping his arms around a toxic “movement” called White Lives Matter. The outrage would be endless, the headlines relentless — and rightfully so.
Obama’s real legacy on race? Blacks are eternal victims — distressed, oppressed and suppressed by “The Man” — and trapped in a system rigged against them from birth to death. His own extraordinary rise, of course, contradicts this counterproductive message. Yet he persists in selling it to willing buyers.
Obama is still relatively young. So, he has decades ahead to remain a loud voice in the public square — and he possesses a warehouse full of race cards ready to be played. What a waste.
Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
Teachey board OKs water, sewer rate hikes
Rates will rise 10% over the next year as the town works to meet state recommendations
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal
THE TEACHEY BOARD
of Commissioners voted to raise the town’s water and sewer rates 2% beginning in July during its March 9 meeting. The rates will then increase 3% the following month and another 5% in June of next year.
The rate increases were actually approved during the previous scal year’s budget for the town but had not been implemented due to the new rates being instituted at the same time the town’s software was being updated. In order to meet the recommended rates from the state, the town needs to increase its rates a total of 10% to cover operational costs.
In other business, the board voted to schedule a public hearing at its April 13 meeting to hear input on a proposed townhome overlay ordinance. The proposed addition to one area designated as R-10 zoning in town is in response to developer Bert Properties’ request to adopt an ordinance that would allow the construction of townhomes for sale in their proposed development near the intersection of N.C. Highway 117 and Hunter Street.
Chad Lambert and Robert Stevens of Bert Properties appeared at the January board meeting to request a townhome ordinance be created in town since one did not exist. The proposed subdivision would include single-family homes and townhomes for sale. Lambert and Stevens returned to the February meeting expressing concern in the delay in their request, reporting they were losing money while they waited on the board’s action.
Town Attorney Joseph Ezzell told the board the simplest solution would be to create a townhome overlay district within the current R-10 designation at the development location. Ezzell said this action would solve two issues.
“First, you don’t have an ordinance pertaining to townhomes, so you’re amending the current development ordinances that you have,” Ezzell said. “The second thing is I understand you are wanting to include townhomes in only this area. So my suggestion would be not rezoning it, but you can do an overlay district for this area.”
Ezzell added that other towns had used the same system to allow an exception for manufactured homes within a limited area in town.
During the board meeting, the commissioners also approved the expenditure of $9,400 for paving repairs, including potholes, in town.
of N.C. Highway 117 and Hunter Street.
The board also discussed water bills and equipment
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
GREENEVERS — Concerns about increased taxes and high water bills at 150 Clinic Circle Drive led constituents to address the board during the Greenevers town board meeting March 9. Town Clerk Emma Brinson said a second water line had been installed at the address by the previous owner, and the town was not aware of it. Town o cials told the current resident the matter would be taken before the planning board and it would follow up within a few weeks.
A public hearing was held for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act. The board approved an application of approximately $2 million in CDBG Infrastructure funds to design, construct and administer improvements to the town’s wastewater system, consisting of replacement of approximately 2,070 linear feet of gravity sewer infrastructure along Browns Terrace Circle and Browns Terrace Lane, and rehabilitation of the existing in uent pump station and appurtenant equipment at 201 Browns Terrace
Circle. More information is expected at the April meeting, as the application is due at the end of April.
The Greenevers Volunteer Fire Department asked to borrow the town’s lawn mower, saying it did not have funds to purchase its own. The board approved allowing the re department to use their equipment as long as it helps maintain it. The board also said it would look into purchasing an additional mower as a backup.
New fencing around the community building was also discussed to help protect the building following recent break-ins. The board approved having Brinson research fencing options for possible approval at a later meeting.
Upcoming events were discussed. Ana’s Angels will host its second community Easter egg hunt at the Greenevers Community Building on April 4 from 1-3 p.m. The event will include games, prizes, food, an egg hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny. Also, the Greenevers Volunteer Fire Department will celebrate its annual Firemen’s Day on April 25. The day will kick o with a parade at 10 a.m., followed by activities, ra es and plate sales. Plates will feature grilled chicken and barbecue for $10.
amendments, Town Manager Rob Taylor asked for a $146,500 appropriation to cover expenditures that were over budget. Taylor said the expenditures were mostly overtime for Wallace Police o cers who have been covering shifts due to the department being short-sta ed. Taylor said the budgeting issues were due to running behind on audit requirements and having challenges caused by turnover of town nance ocers. Mayor Jason Wells pointed out that Taylor was having to do the job of both town manager and nance o cer, which was challenging.
In response to the recent downtown parking forum held
a
cover
Feb. 18, the council voted to rescind the ordinances restricting parking times in downtown Wallace. Taylor said the town will soon be removing the signs downtown that limit parking to either one hour or two hours, depending on the location. The council also held a discussion regarding the placement of banners, signs and ags at local businesses. There are rules limiting their use, but Wells and Fritz said it may be time to clarify those rules for enforcement. The council agreed it would be a good idea to speak with business owners and citizens in town prior to taking any action, meaning there could be another forum, similar to the parking forum, in the future.
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURANL
Members of the Teachey Town Board of Commissioners and Town Attorney Joseph Ezzell discuss the creation of a townhome overlay district within an area zoned R-10 to allow the construction of townhomes for sale at a proposed development near the intersection
WALLACE from page A1
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL Wallace Town Manager Rob Taylor explains to the Wallace Town Council his request for
$146,500 budget amendment to cover expenses that were over budget. Taylor said a large portion of the amount would
overtime pay for the Wallace Police Department.
Faison celebrates annual Farmers Parade and Festival
Hundreds attended the parade honoring the town’s agricultural roots
By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
FAISON — Approximately
700 people lined Main Street in Faison on Saturday for the annual Farmers Parade and Festival, organized by the Faison Improvement Group (FIG). The event honors Faison’s agricultural heritage.
“Agriculture is key to a lot of people’s livelihoods and formative experiences,” said Andrew Taylor, FIG president.
“We believe that this is a special culture we should cele -
brate, and that is why we started this event and continue to try and improve upon it every year.”
The event featured 32 vendors, including food trucks, crafters, service providers and local clubs such as the Lions Club, which has been part of the community since 1939.
The Duplin County Sheri ’s Department led the parade, which included local businesses, car clubs, churches, marching bands and ve area re departments. Festival highlights included performances by The Arts Company of Faison and the Duplin Sparklers, face painting, karaoke, a foam party and appearances by the Easter Bunny.
A boy drives a John Deere 435 tractor and waves as he passes the crowd at last Saturday’s Farmer’s Parade and Festival.
Above, The Arts Company of Faison took to the streets for a lively post-parade performance, entertaining festival-goers. Top left, The Sudan Shriners Thunderbolts thrilled the audience with laps along the parade route. Bottom left, Mayor Billy Ward made a memorable entrance, riding down Main Street on a Harley during the parade.
PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL Top, Children cooled o and laughed as they splashed in water and foam at the festival’s foam dance party. Below, The Sudan Shriners brought laughter to the crowd with antics from the Dunn Clowns, keeping smiles on faces of all ages.
DUPLIN SPORTS
Rebels have enough repower to remain among contenders
Lilly Fulghum, Ady Spence, Marissa Bernal and newcomers Gracie Higginbotham and Wyllow Holmes keep ND on the winning track
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
CALYPSO — Five sizzling bats, three tested pitchers, an experienced catcher and a winning tradition is the background music played when the North Duplin softball team runs to its positions on the game day.
The Rebels, who have gone 186-78 since 2008, stand as one of the best small softball schools in the state.
And despite losing an all-state player Addy Higginbotham to Wingate University, ND will be as dicult to upend on any given day based on its repower.
Yet even the best teams don’t always start in high gear after hearing “Play ball!”
ND (2-1) lost 14-2 last Friday to East Columbus in the rst game for both schools in the new Carolina 1A/2A Conference.
Yet it is nothing new. The Rebels lost to Wayne Christian early in the 2023 season but came back for revenge later in the campaign. They eventually lost to Northside-Pinetown in the fourth round of the 1A playo s to go 17-2.
They were 14-4 last spring, losing to Bear Grass Charter in the third round of the playo s.
Pitching a strength for Rebels
ND has three pitchers who are capable of leading the way — seniors Ady Spence and Lilly Fulghum and freshman Gracie Higginbotham.
Spence went 9-1 last season with a 0.41 ERA, and Fulghum was 5-2 with a 0.98 ERA.
Newcomer Higginbotham, a left-hander, has been playing travel softball for a number of seasons and is ready for prime time, according to her coach — and mother.
“Gracie plays the highest level of travel ball, so nothing phases her,” said Jaime Kylis Higginbotham, who
has guided ND to a 67-17 record in the past four seasons. “There’s nothing she hasn’t seen. She bends the ball and is very aggressive. Plus, she gives o a much di erent look than both Lilly or Ady.” Spence and Fulghum are both right-handed hurlers.
WRH looks “playo -capable,’ while HCA and Richlands build for the future
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — The battery is in place. The in eld is experienced. The out eld has speed.
The challenge for the Wallace-Rose Hill softball team is simple: keep focused and nish o games.
And head coach Cory Lovelace says he’s holding out for heroes to step into the limelight.
“If we only played four innings, we’d be OK,” Lovelace said following
the Bulldogs 6-4 loss to East Duplin after trailing 4-3 headed into the seventh inning.
“We’ve struggled with leadership. Many of them work hard and lead by example. But in bad games we’re in trouble until someone steps up. The last two or three innings we fell apart against East Duplin.”
And the 4A Panthers have a program that is competitive with WRH’s three biggest rivals in the Swine Valley Conference — Midway, Princeton and Rosewood.
Lovelace is looking for a sustained e ort from a team led by junior hurler Payton Tynall, catcher Mattie Gavin, shortstop Jansley Page and third baseman Sophie Sloan, all seniors.
“I’ve said for a couple of years that Ady is our silent weapon,” said the ND coach. “And Lilly is just a competitor who won’t beat you with her pitches but with her will to win. She comes right at you.”
Tyndall improved last season, though she will have to post better numbers after WRH’s departure from the East Central Conference. She was 8-10 with a 4.57 ERA, whiing 101 and allowing 66 walks. She hit .312 and had 12 RBIs.
“She’s more consistent hitting her spots,” Lovelace said. “Her changeup is better as well, and I’m hopeful the walks will be minimized.”
Tyndall is WRH’s ride-or-die pitcher, but if a change is needed, look for Lovelace to go to Baker, a freshman who starts at second base.
Gavin is a defensive wiz behind the plate and should be able to contribute more to the o ense after
The JK head coach believes his team can make the state playo s for the rst time since 2017
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
WARSAW — Hammering the ball over the fence is one way to win baseball games.
Another winning method involves pitching and defense.
That’s the ticket to reserving a spot in the state playo s for James Kenan, though how the Tigers do against Swine Valley teams Spring Creek, Goldsboro and Wallace-Rose Hill will also go a long way in determining the Tigers’ postseason fate.
The league’s three “baseball schools” — Midway, Rosewood and Princeton — are everyone’s favorites to contend for the regular season title. Princeton proved it belonged by topping the Raiders last week.
“The top three in our conference are very good and steeped in tradition,” said JK third-year coach Lee Sutton. “They can and will likely have deep runs (in the playo s). Still, there’s a good path for us to make the playo s.”
JK, which went 4-11 in the ECC last season, is 2-2 after four games, having whipped the Gators (7-2) and losing to the Eagles (14-3) and splitting two nonconference a airs.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL ND’s Marissa Bernal is a .400 hitter who ND will depend on for production this spring.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
The pitching of Payton Tyndall will go a long way in determining how WRH fares in the Swine Valley Conference standings.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Leado hitter Eli Avent looks like a track sprinter to opposing pitchers.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE
Shylah Sloan
James Kenan, softball
Shylah Sloan has her groove back and is better than ever.
The James Kenan senior pitcher/shortstop is 7 of 13 (.533) with 11 RBIs in a season that mirrors her sophomore campaign more than last season, when she was limited to 39 at-bats and hit .323.
The Tigers’ tri-captain with Ava Jones and Jourdan Joe knocked in ve runs against Clinton, three against Rosewood, two vs. Spring Creek and one against Lakewood.
JK won all four games, and two of the outings were circle wins for Sloan, who has 19 strikeouts, four walks and a 1.75 ERA.
Sloan is a four-year starter who busted onto the scene as a sophomore when her 32 hits fashioned a .539 average and led to 12 RBIs.
JK is o to its best start in years but is about to enter a tough part of its schedule as games against Midway, Princeton and East Duplin are on tap.
Yet Sloan is one reason the Tigers could sport their best record in more than 17 years.
Puzzle work: Area coaches piecing together soccer lineups
East Duplin, James Kenan, Wallace-Rose Hill and North Duplin are searching for the right player combinations to align on the sod this spring
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
WARSAW — A wave of optimism is surrounded by temporary instability as four soccer coaches in Duplin County put together their lineups for play in three conferences.
And it’s the time of the season when winning aiming for league title is a reachable goal for one and all.
Here’s the sod shakedown for East Duplin (ECC 3A/4A), James Kenan and Wallace-Rose Hill (Swine Valley 2A/3A) and North Duplin (Carolina 1A/2A).
Panthers looking for answers, scoring
Longtime East Duplin head coach Joey Jones has the joy of nding a workable lineup from a list of 46 players, by far the largest in the county.
The Panthers (1-4) have taken it on the chin in nonconference action, though facing extremely solid programs (Richlands, Swansboro, Cape Fear) and, ready or not, ECC action starts this week with two matches against longtime rival Southwest Onslow.
Back-to-back matches was set up for baseball and hardly seems appropriate for soccer, according to Jones and other coaches.
Anamarie Rodriguez, ED’s MVP from 2023, has returned after knee surgery as Jones looks for scoring and to replace scorers Miranda Roblero (12 goals) and Katelyn Jones (11), who were key in a late run that took the Panthers to the fourth round of the 2A playo s.
Jones is hoping South Lenoir transfer Melanie Reyes and Liberty Christian transfer Jocelyn Mata-Aguilar become scoring threats as forwards.
The mid eld has more question marks than answers, though Rodriguez (12 goals in a shortened 2025 season) is playing there for now. Sophomore Sosa Hernandez-Espino and freshmen Marleny Segundo and junior Kayleigh Chase have been running mates, though Jones said he wanted to move players from the defense to mid eld.
That unit is led by returnees Anastan and Tabor Holley, Zoe Cavanaugh and Emily Reyes, the older sister of Melanie Reyes.
Kimberlynn Guzman, a sophomore, is the Panthers’ goalie.
“We’re hoping to have less question marks in the next couple weeks,” said Jones, whose defense must replace Bella Gaby and keeper Isla Miller.
Tigers also seek goal-scorers
There is no replacing Katherine Chirinos’ 33 goals, but James Kenan is seeking its third consecutive winning season. The Tigers won nine games the past two seasons after going 19-23 in from 2019 -23.
Candidates for the position include sophomores Yandiei Cruz and Josselyn Gomez, who started as wingers last season.
But the Tigers are expecting seniors Arely Patino and Aleyah Wilson, who can play any position from goalie to striker, to have banner seasons.
“That speaks volumes for their ability, but also to the predicament coaches have to sort out players (into positions),” Smith said.
Junior Noilin Rodriguez, sophomore Anareli Avila, and freshmen Angie Irula and Jessica Santibanez are likewise vying for playing time up front.
JK will rely on juniors Keyla Diaz, Alison Duenas and Lizeth Marcia, sophomore Ashley Guitierrez and senior Abigail Cantereros on defense.
“I think we have the potential answers on the roster,” Smith said. “We have better quality depth, but we’ll see how the promising young players develop and mature. Our goal is to see if we can go from being a solid team to being a solid program, where you lose good players and still load up and be solid year in and year out.”
Ly wants to see youth club soccer at WRH
First-year coach Dennis Ly is a longtime soccer coach from the Hickory area who took Maiden High from two wins in his rst season to ve wins a year later and then a playo spot in his third season.
Ly said the answer to soccer is developing players earlier.
“My goal is to start a club team for the younger generation to start playing soccer before the middle school age,” he said. “We have raw talent, and I need to get them unafraid of contact and toughened up. By midseason, we’ll be OK.” Strikers Gabi Debman and Bayleen Flores were WRH’s top scoring players the past two seasons, and they have scored eight of 10 goals this season for the Bulldogs.
“Gabi is fast, athletic and in great shape, and she and Bayleen talk and communicate well together,” Ly said. “Bayleen has great footwork and speed, and we want her to be even faster so we can see
the great touch she puts on the ball.”
Senior Brianna Maradiaga is also a threat to put one in the back of the net.
Ly said defender tri-captain Bella Sabillon is a warrior.
“She’s a hustler with a super positive attitude and one of our leaders on the eld,” he said. “She leads on and o the eld. We’ve had o -the- eld activities; that’s one thing I feel is important.”
Ly said junior mid elder Natalie Paredes is ready for action and “may be my best all-around player,” while senior middie Yaslin Melendez has “God-given talent and needs to be taught the game.”
Freshman Gissele Licona is the Bulldogs’ goalie.
WRH (2-3) is looking for a playo invitation after nishing 9-9 in 2025 and 10-8 the previous season.
“We’re also here to teach the girls the game of life because I still believe all that can be done with soccer, and I’m excited about where we are now,” said Ly, who was an assistant under boys’ coach Aaron Murray last season when the Bulldogs won their fourth state title. “We have ve seniors and are loaded with freshmen, sophomores and juniors. I love our potential and how we can grow.”
Stemmler, Strickland, Arguijo leading Rebels
North Duplin started 5-1 last season but won just three of its nal nine matches to nish 8-7. Yet even that is a positive for the program, which has gone 11-46-2 since the canceled 2020 COVID-19 season.
The Rebels (3-0) are once again o to a hot start with wins over Rosewood (5-2), Spring Creek (7-2) and new Carolina Conference member East Columbus (10-1).
Freshman goalie Natalie Carreon earned the shutout by playing 65 minutes against the Eagles. Classmate Destiny Pilkington kept the gate of the fort closed for the nal 10 minutes.
Carrly Strickland and Sasha Arguijo each had a hat trick against East Columbus. Tristen Stemmler had two scores, and Camden Cox and Gabi Zamudio each found the back of the net in Seven Springs. Arguijo and Strikland each had two-goal outputs against Spring Creek. Stemmler, who led ND in scoring last spring with 13 goals, pumped in a pair.
While the Rebels irted with the possibility of winning the CC last spring, capturing it with East Columbus, West Columbus and East Bladen on board would be a bonus.
In a league that doesn’t seem to have a dominant program, it’s anyone’s ball.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
ED’s Joselin Mata-Aguilar, left, tries to work a shot through WRH’s Salma Sabillion and goalie Giselle Licon.
ED’s o ensive outbursts provide cushion for its pitching sta
The Panthers win four of ve ahead of ECC play, while HCA’s hurlers kept the Crusaders unbeaten through four games
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — East Duplin manager Brandon Thipgen said a strength of his team is pitching.
And while that may hold true through ve games, the o ense also needs to be credited for the Panthers’ 4-1 start, which includes a heartbreaking 7-6 eight-inning loss to 6A Jacksonville last week.
The pitching sta of Gavin Holmes, JP Murphy and newcomers Brayden Jones, a freshman, and Silas Jarman, a sophomore, each have a win and have a combined ERA of 1.65, with 35 strikeouts and 19 walks.
But the Panthers have put their o ense on display as ve players are hitting at least .375 and the team average is .312. It’s early, but last year’s 13-8 club hit .268.
To no one’s surprise, all-stater Gavin Holmes (.536 with ve RBIs) is leading the pack.
Jack Tuck and Sawyer Marshburn are at .444 via eight hits in 18 at-bats. Luke Hall is at .375 in his comeback season and incoming freshman Hayes Lanier (.400) has four hits and four RBIs in 14 plate appearances.
ED senior catcher Sawyer Marshburn is hitting .444.
Tuck and Marshburn combined to go 9 of 12 during a 20-5 stomping of Wallace-Rose Hill last Friday as the Panthers swept the season series. Colton Holmes had two hits, two walks, three RBIs and scored three times. Jarman got the win by allowing two hits in ve innings.
SOFTBALL from page B1
whacking at a .264 rate with 15 RBIs last spring.
“She gives you all she has,” said Lovelace of his senior who was an all-state volleyball player. “But she got hurt in a scrimmage, so we’re moving forward slowly with her at this point.”
WRH is solid on the right side of the in eld with four -year starters Page and Sloan.
Page is a rst-team all-Duplin player who hit .407 and had seven extra-base hits and 11 RBIs. She too is an all-state spiker, as is reserve Angelina Cavallaro, who will mainly run the bases and also run for the track team.
Sloan hit .346 and knocking in 12 a season ago.
Sophomore Azee Monk will play rst base.
The out eld has juniors Isabell Parker and Maggie Boone returning in center and right, respectively, with newcomer Keyonna Thomas, a fresh-
BASEBALL from page B1
This week, the Tigers play the Raiders (2-2, 1-1) and Cougars (1-5, 2-2).
Sutton plans to use four pitchers this season with sophomore Tripp Phillips entering as the ace of the sta .
“He probably has the best stu and throws the hardest,” Sutton said. “He’s got a little poise and is smart up there.”
Junior Hansley McGee isn’t far o the pace.
“He started two games and closed two others when I started Tripp,” said Sutton, who is getting help this season from assistant coach Ken Avent III, both of whom played baseball at JK. “Our pitchers must throw strikes. We struggled with that last season.”
Senior Cal Avent will also get his turns on the hill as a starter.
And catcher Paxton Smith will take o his gear a handful of times to pitch.
“It’s about our pitchers letting our defense make plays and outs,” Sutton said. Phillips will play rst base when he’s not on the hill. Twins Cal and Eli Avent will in the ineld — Cal at second base and Eli at shortstop and second when his sibling is pitching.
catcher Marshburn each had a pair of hits.
ED was slated to play Southwest Onslow twice this week as the ECC has went to two-game series played home and away in the same week.
Gators outlast Rebels in 14-13 slugfest
North Duplin and East Columbus combined for 27 runs on 27 hits, with the visitors scoring twice in the eighth to earn a 14-13 Carolina Conference win in Calypso.
The Rebels trailed 10-6 before scoring six times in the sixth inning. EC countered with a pair of runs in the seventh and eighth frames.
Garris Warren had four hits in ve trips to the plate.
Ben Kelly and Noah Price each drove in three runs, and Noa Quintanilla and Garrett Stevens combined for four walks, three RBIs and two sacri ces.
ND (1-2, 0-1) squares o against league foes East Bladen (1-4, 0-0), Union (0-8, 0-1) and Hobbton (3-1, 1-0) this week, the latter of which is March 20.
Bulldogs squeeze out two wins between losses to ED
Brooks, Luke Jackson, Gray James and Jerman Ayllon each drove in a pair of runs during a 16-14 triumph over Goldsboro in the rst Swine Valley Conference matchup of the spring for both schools.
The Bulldogs followed it up with a 6-5 revenge win over Pender, which had beaten WRH 15-5 on March 3.
Hayden Lovette and Jackson each laced a pair of hits, and Brooks and Zachary Fisher had key RBIs.
Two days later, WRH was taken down 20-5 by the Panthers, and the rebound o of that is a road trip to Princeton. They then stay away from Teachey and take on Midway on March 19.
Lovette (.538), Buckner (.471), Ayllon (.400) and Jackson (.333) are o to great starts for manager Logan Kissner.
Crusaders hurlers making all the right pitches
Harrells Christian Academy has given up two runs in ve games, so it makes complete sense that the Crusaders are 4-0.
Drake Smith and Reid Strickland combined to no-hit Parrott Academy 2-0 as the duo combined for 15 strikeouts and three walks. Senior Payton Gomez had three of the Crusaders’ ve hits and scored a run. So did freshman Avery Hall, who was 1 of 4 with a walk.
ED let a 6-1 lead slip away against the Cardinals. Tick knocked in a pair of runs and Lanier, Marshburn and the Holmes each had an RBI. Jacksonville scored four times in the sixth to send it to extra innings. In ED’s 5-0 triumph over Richlands, Jones and Jarman held the Wildcats to one hit while striking out nine and walking four.
man, in left. Thomas is also the backup catcher. Sophomore Chloe Turner is looking for playing time at rst base and in the circle, while speedy freshman QouRyiona Vines is developing as an out elder.
“My big concern is that we go out and compete and get after it, win or lose,” Lovelace said. “Just play hard.”
WRH is 2-5 overall and 1-0 in Swine Valley play entering this week’s action, which includes road trips to Princeton and Midway.
Rumbold, Peed, Jackson are Crusader spark plugs
Rose Hill’s Makenzie Jackson and Amory Merritt are a part of a young Harrells Christian Academy softball team under the direction of rst-year head coach Dustin Jackson, whose daughter is a budding star.
The younger Jackson, a freshman, is the Crusaders’ start-
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
JK’s Cal Avent hit .500 last season and returns to the diamond looking for more production.
Hunter Whitman is at the hot corner and the lone in elder who will remain in his position during pitching changes.
JK will have freshmen in the out eld corners with Brantley Pike in left eld and JJ Boyette in right eld. Senior Shane Braswell overlaps into the gaps as the Tigers’ center elder.
“It’s probably the best outeld I’ve had here,” Sutton said. “They make every routine play and have speed to cover
Third baseman Hall and
ing shortstop and leado hitter, while Merritt is an eighth-grade second baseman.
Young is everywhere as HCA has just one senior, catcher Mary Willow Rumbold.
She will receive the o erings of ace Breelyn Peed, a freshman, seventh grader Emory Landen Patram and possibly Jackson in a relief capacity.
Patram and Peed will hold down rst base too.
Another frosh, Landry Singletary, is starting at the hot corner.
The out eld is over owing with youth as freshman Molly Sasser and Anna Williams are in left and right, with eight grader Savannah Stevens in center.
“It’s a developmental year, for sure,” said the Crusaders’ coach.
“The goal is to be at least .500, and I think that’s obtainable.”
HCA is 4-1 to start the week, though getting ready to face better competition with conference foes such as Rocky Mount Academy and Faith Christian.
a lot of ground and good arms.”
JK’s last playo appearance was in 2023. The Tigers’ last playo win was in 2017 when JK was in the Carolina 1A Conference. It was the sophomore season for Sutton and senior campaign for Avent III. They beat Tarboro and fell to Rosewood to wind up 13-10.
JK lost to fellow ECC foe North Lenoir three years ago to nish 10-10.
Winning records are hard to find in the past quarter century.
Eli Avent, a rst-team all-Duplin center elder in 2025, returns as the leado hitter after a .500 campaign his junior year.
“He’s our best hitter by a wide margin,” Sutton said. “He’s close to .600 right now and has four or ve extra-base hits. He’s got more power than in the past and is nding the gaps and using his speed.”
Smith showed promise last season as a backstop and in the batter’s box. Cal Avent was JK’s second-best hitter. They will hit in the second and third slot in the order. Both had a pair of hits against Rosewood.
McGee follows and brings three years of experience with him.
The good news about Wallace-Rose Hill (4-3, 1-0) this season is that the Bulldogs have twice responded to a loss with a pair of wins. The latest came after a stinging 12-0 setback to East Duplin.
Reese Buckner went 3 for 5 and scored twice, and Will
“We’re super young with a very promising future,” Jackson said. “We have only two seniors, no juniors or sophomores, and ve freshmen and six players that are seventh or eighth graders. Not much is expected from us right now, and that lets this group play uninhibited of expectations that junior and seniors put on themselves.
Wildcats regroup without ace Goin
Richlands is nding out the hard way that replacing an ace is sometimes a di cult to impossible task.
Cameron Cubas, the lone returnee from last season’s 20-6 club, belted two hits and scored three times last Friday at the Wildcats beat Swansboro 5-3 for its rst in in seven games.
Yet the biggest miss is hurler Makenzie Goin, who was 4317 in four seasons, which included a ’25 campaign in which she was fourth in the state in strike-
HCA’s o ense has hardly been second rate when compared to its pitching. The Crusaders have scored 44 times and are hitting .315 as a team. They’ve also averaged 6.8 walks and just 4.2 whi s per game, with their 35 hits helping to drive in 35 runs. The Crusaders have a twin bill early this week against the Green eld School in Wilson and stay on the road for a clash with Pope John II Catholic on March 19.
HCA has played on its home eld only once.
outs (282) and walked just 25. She paved the way for Richlands to go 74-25 the past four seasons.
Another big loss to graduation was in elder LaNayah Jackson (.412).
Cubas (.526), a senior, leads the Wildcats in hits (10), runs (seven) and on-base percentage (.609).
Freshmen Lily Richmond and Kenly Harris are both at .368 with seven hits apiece. They have combined for six RBIs.
Head coach Matt Lovely is rebuilding in a tough Coastal 5A/6A Conference in which Richlands had to beat West Carteret 2-1 in a one-game tilt to capture the regular season title.
While the schedule won’t get easier, the young and inexperienced Wildcats are sure to improve. They have already shown progress. Richlands was outscored 46-6 in its rst four games, all at home. The margin was 19-13 in its last three outings.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Cave lands on NC Basketball Coach’s District 2 rst team
thers to their third consecutive 20 -win campaign.
North Duplin’s Abby Rose was a second-team player.
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
BEULAVILLE — The basketball season didn’t play out quite the way Kinsey Cave would have liked, but it ended with the East Duplin guard as a rst-team member of the North Carolina Basketball Coaches Association’s District 2 team.
Cave missed several games because of an ankle injury but returned to lead the Panthers past previously unbeaten Clinton and then into the third round of the 4A playo s. Yet at that level her team’s weaknesses stuck out like a sore thumb during a 59-21 loss to T.W. Andrews in a game in which the junior did not score a point. But the bigger picture is that Cave averaged 14.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.9 steals in pushing the Pan-
SIDELINE REPORT
FORMULA 1
Formula 1 calls o April races in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia due to Iran war Shanghai Formula 1 and its governing body, the FIA, say the Grand Prix races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will not be held in April on safety grounds related to the Iran war. Both countries have been struck during Iran’s response to United States and Israeli attacks. F1 was due to race in Bahrain on April 12 and in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on April 19. F1 did not say the races were canceled or postponed, just that they won’t happen in April and replacement events have not been scheduled.
DUPLIN COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of
in that
Deed of Trust executed by MICHELE MARIE HORNE, A Single Woman to Eugene Davis, Trustee(s), which was dated May 27, 2020 and recorded on May 27, 2020 in Book 1922 at Page 823, 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 o er 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 March 31, 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: Being all of Lots 21 and 22 of the Herbert E. Miller, Jr. Subdivision as surveyed in January, 1958, by Charles V. Brooks, III, and as appears in Map Book 216, Page 37, of the Duplin County Registry, reference to which is hereby made. And being the same lots described in deeds recorded in Book 649, Page 508, and Book 1236, Page 602, of the Duplin County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 616
Rose averaged 16.6 points, 6.4 boards, 2.4 assists and was arguably the best shooter in Duplin County. Her Rebels nished 18-8 after losing two four-year starters who each scored more than 1,000-career points.
The Rebels’ Jae’lyn Ingram was a third-team selection for the boys in District 2.
The sophomore averaged 20.1 points and 7.6 rebounds for the 15-11 Rebels.
NCAA BASKETBALL
Cincinnati ring men’s basketball coach Miller
Cincinnati Wes Miller will not be back as the University of Cincinnati’s men’s basketball coach. Cincinnati and Miller are reportedly negotiating an equitable buyout. Miller has three years remaining on his contract, but he’s owed $9.9 million if the ring happens before March 31. It drops to $4.69 million if the termination happens after April 1. Miller went 100-74 in ve seasons, including 18-15 this year and did not reach the NCAA Tournament. Miller won an NCAA title as a UNC player and coached UNC Greensboro before leaving for Cincinnati.
Stevens St, Wallace, NC 28466.
A certi ed check only (no personal checks) of ve 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 o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered 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 o ered 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 Michele Marie Horne.
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 e ective 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 e ective 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 ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan
Top seven hitters in lineup have pop
ND’s o ense will miss Addy Higginbotham (.560, seven doubles, eight triples, a home run, 32 runs) but should have enough re with the sticks of Fulghum, Spence, Higginbotham, Marissa Bernal and Abigeal Norris. Fulghum, a 1A all-state player from a year ago who will play at Charlotte next season, could be the best hitter in the East. She’s at .636 through three games after going hitting .632 with eight doubles, three triples, seven home runs, 30 runs and 18 RBIs in 2025. Bernal was also a rst-team 1A NC Coach’s pick last spring after hitting .447 with four doubles, two triples and a ’round-tripper. She will play center eld and hit in the leado spot.
Spence (.396 with ve doubles, a triple and 12 RBIs) is at rst base when not in the circle.
Freshman Wyllow Holmes started the season with ve hits in 10 at-bats from the No. 2 spot in the lineup.
ND is also expecting o ense out of junior second baseman Hannah Gonzalez, classmate and third baseman Bernal Gizelle and junior right elder Raegan Herring.
Junior catcher Norris improved her average to .378 while also becoming a better defensive catcher. Her arm is a threat to any base-stealer. Gracie Higginbotham has started with a .364 average and will only improve. Yet ND will need help from the bottom of its order to compete against the best teams.
NOTICES
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
STATE OF NC - WAKE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE, SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Superior Court File No. 25CV043993-910 NC Licensing Board for General Contractors, Plainti , v. Boyd Franklin “Frank” Harrelson t/a Harrelson & Son, Defendant.
To: BOYD FRANKLIN “BOYD” HARRELSON An Alias & Pluries Civil Summons in 25CV043993-910 was issued by the abovereferenced Court on February 19, 2026, with endorsement of March 9, 2026. A Complaint and Motion Application for Preliminary and Permanent Injunction was led with the Court on December 8, 2025, by the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors (the “Board”). The nature of the action is to determine whether Defendant violated N.C.G.S. 8713 by engaging in the practice of general contracting without being properly licensed by the Board. A hearing is scheduled
forty (40) days after March 19, 2026. Evidence will be presented in support of the complaint that you have violated the laws set forth above and a request will be made for the Court to enter an order for a preliminary injunction against you. By: Creighton Knight, Attorney, Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo, LLP, 2710 Wycli Rd., Ste 220 Raleigh, NC 27607.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#26E000086-300 The undersigned, BARBARA SMITH ASHLEY AND BELINDA SMITH MAY having quali ed on the 24TH DAY of FEBRUARY 2026, as CO-ADMINISTRATORS of the Estate of BOBBY GLENN SMITH, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 5TH Day of JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 5TH Day of MARCH 2026.
BARBARA SMITH ASHLEY, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 7228 LEDFORD GROVE LANE WAKE FOREST, NC 27587
BELINDA SMITH MAY, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 1909 AMETHYST RIDGE DRIVE RALEIGH, NC 27604
Run dates:M5,12,19,26p
NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY
FILE#26E000068-300
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, MICHELE M. THOMPSON, having quali ed on the 24TH DAY of FEBRUARY 2026, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of WILLIAM DWIGHT THOMPSON, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 5TH Day of JUNE 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 5TH Day of MARCH 2026.
MICHELE M. THOMPSON, ADMINISTRATOR
4660 E. NC HWY 24 BEULAVILLE, NC 28518
Run dates:M5,12,19,26p
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
All-state in elder Lilly Fulghum, left, will bat cleanup for ND before heading to play at Charlotte next season.
ND’s Abby Rose earned second-team honors, while the Rebels’ Jae’lyn Ingram made the boys’ third team
Kinsey Cave
Abby Rose
PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Jae’Lyn Ingram
Annie Ruth Crumpler
April 14, 1943 – March 2, 2026
Annie Ruth Crumpler, 82, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on March 2, 2026, at her residence.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Newkirk Chapel in Willard, NC. Public viewing will be from 1-2 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey, NC.
Charles Edward “Eddie” Ridenhour Sr.
Nov. 8, 1940 – March 11, 2026
Charles Edward “Eddie” Ridenhour Sr., 85, a Christian man of honor and integrity, passed from his earthly life on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. He was born on November 8, 1940, in Salisbury. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Ridenhour Chason, and stepfather Bill Chason; his brother, Donnie Ridenhour, and his wife, Sherrill; his sister, Carol Brown; his grandmother, Bessie Willmotte; and his brother-in-law, Charles Sessoms.
Eddie is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Carolyn Russ Ridenhour; daughter Jacqueline R. Collier (Haywood); son, Charles “Charlie” Edward Ridenhour, Jr.; granddaughter, Jessica Collier Sutherland (Joseph); great granddaughter, Jacee Sutherland; sisters, Becky Hinson (Richard) and Martha Sessoms; brothers, Buddy Chason (Carolyn), George Chason (Jill), brother-in-law, Bobby Russ; and also blessed with many nieces and nephews.
Eddie was a proud veteran, having served our country in the US Army and the Army National Guard of North Carolina as a Sergeant. He retired from Federal Paper Company after working for 38 years. For 17 years, Eddie served on the Board of Directors of Star Telephone Membership Corporation. Eddie was a faithful and loyal member of Centerville Baptist Church. For fun and relaxation, Eddie loved a good game of golf. In his spare time, Eddie loved tinkering with his tractor as well as disking up land for a garden. Most important in his life was his dear and much loved family.
The family will receive friends at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Centerville Baptist with a funeral service at 2 p.m. in the church sanctuary. The Rev. Allen Murray and The Rev. Teddy Lawson will conduct the service. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories with military honors accorded by the U.S. Army Honor Guard. In lieu of owers, a memorial contribution may be given to Centerville Baptist Church Parsonage Fund, PO Box 27, Kelly, NC 28448.
Andrea “Angie” Starling Murzyn
July 22, 1959 – March 7, 2026
Andrea “Angie” Starling Murzyn passed away on March 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
Born on July 22, 1959, to Patty Sue Jones, Angie was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Mary Jones. She grew up in Wilmington, NC, later moving with her grandmother to Rose Hill. She attended Wallace-Rose Hill High School before settling in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she spent most of her adult life. She was preceded in death by her mother and by her daughter, Kimberly Jennelle Murzyn.
Angie leaves behind her beloved grandson, Dashawn Hunter Murzyn, and her ancé, Lee Hanchey. She also leaves behind Diane Johnson Wilson, Rick Johnson, Donald Johnson, and Patty Johnson Holloway— family who, while not siblings by birth, shared a deep lifelong bond with her. Their closeness formed naturally from the connection between their mothers, who were sisters, and from the love that surrounded Angie after her mother passed away when she was just nine months old. She is also survived by many extended family members who cherished her deeply.
She worked many years for Publix Foods in Florida before returning to North Carolina in June 2022 to care for her ailing aunt, Nancy Johnson—an act of devotion that re ected her generous and nurturing spirit. Angie was vibrant and adventurous, always ready with a smile or laugh that brightened every room. She carried a quiet wisdom and a resilient spirit, living with joy and sincerity. She adored her family—especially her grandson—who held a special place in her heart. Nature was her refuge; she found comfort in her garden, surrounded by the birds, hummingbirds, and butter ies she loved. Angie also cherished traveling and spending time at the beach.
Angie’s presence was a gift, and her memory will continue to brighten the lives of all who loved her.
Services for Andrea will be held on Saturday, March 21, at 2 p.m. at Padgette Funeral Home in Wallace, NC. Family and friends are invited to a gathering that will follow at 3:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Rose Hill Baptist Church in Rose Hill, NC.
Sabernia Sparrow Stevenson
Oct. 16, 1961 – March 9, 2026
Sabernia Sparrow Stevenson, a ectionately known as “Sabrina”, passed away on March 9, 2026, in Shallotte, NC. Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Little Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Supply, NC. Public viewing will be from noon to 1 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Galloway Cemetery.
Evelyn McCormick
March 4, 1950 –March 4, 2026
Ms. Evelyn Delila Kenan McCormick, age 76, of Warsaw, NC, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at her home.
A visitation of family and friends will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 5-6 p.m. at Rose Hill Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 1 p.m. at New Kenansville First Baptist Church in Kenansville, NC. Left to cherish her precious memories are her sons: Raymond and Michael McCormick, both of Wallace, NC; one daughter, Thelma McCormick-McDu e of Warsaw, NC; ve grandchildren: Christina Smith (Tyre) of Huntersville, NC, Marcus Faison of Warsaw, NC, Dwayne Faison (Tiara) of Grifton, NC, Tatyana Ogburne (Ben) of Pikeville, NC and Christian McCormick of Goldsboro; ten greatgrandchildren; one uncle, Johnny Howard Southerland; one aunt, Beatrice Kenan Martin; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends that will miss her dearly.
Edith Wells Merritt
Dec. 10, 1943 – March 9, 2026
Edith Wells Merritt of Wallace passed from her earthly life on the early morning of Monday, March 9, 2026, while at the home of her son in Wallace. Born on December 10, 1943, she is the daughter of the late Henry Z. Wells, Sr., and Annie Mae Knowles Wells. She is also preceded in death by siblings— Henry Z. “HZ” Wells, Jr., James “Jay” Wells, Frank Wells, Betty Wells Brown, Louise Wells Murray, and Annie Ruth Wells Evans.
Left to cherish her memory are her son—Joseph Reaves Merritt II and wife Rhonda Ranae of Wallace; grandchildren—Katherine Evans Tucker and husband Chris of Front Royal (VA), Samantha Nicole Smith and husband Christian of Willard, Kayla Ranae Sumner and husband Matthew of Pink Hill, and Bruce Christopher Penny and wife Bertha of California; eight great grandchildren; special friends— David Mike McCall of Pikeville and Robert “Chuck” Alred of Nakina (NC); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Edith enjoyed getting away on trips with family and friends as often as she could. She took several bus trips and enjoyed her time away. She also loved gathering the family together and visiting over a good meal. Family was very important to her. She was close to everyone in her Sunday School class as well and loved attending her church when she was able. She is known in the community for her time spent at the White House Café, Circle R Pizza, Go-Gas, and Honeycutt Pawn.
A service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Edith is set for 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in the chapel of Padgett Funeral Home, with visitation prior to the service at 1 p.m. Interment will follow the service in Riverview Memorial Park in Watha. O ciating will be Pastor Rodney Humphrey. In lieu of owers, please consider a donation in memory of Mrs. Merritt to the Wallace Fire Association.
Dorothy Lee Smith
March 2, 1951 – March 7, 2026
Dorothy Lee Smith, age 75, died Saturday, March 7, 2026, at home. She is survived by her husband, Larry Jennings Smith of Pink Hill; daughters, Krystal Smith of Chapel Hill, Wendy Holmes of TN; sons, Jenning Smith of TX, John Smith of Wake Forest, Steve Smith of Durham; sister, Betty Lee of Pink Hill; brothers Ken Lee of Pink Hill; Brent Lee of Pink Hill; ten grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.
Edilberto Espinoza Sierra
May 18, 2004 –March 8, 2026
Mr. Edilberto Espinoza Sierra, age 21, of Wallace, NC, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in Wilmington, NC.
A visitation of family and friends will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 6-9:30 p.m. at Iglesia Principe de Pas, 804 N. Norwood Street in Wallace, NC (across from Hardee’s). The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Iglesia Nuevo Renacer Sinai, 648 Cornwallis Road in Teachey, NC. Burial will follow at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey, NC, at 1:30 p.m.
Harold Dean Lane
Feb. 9, 1951 – March 12, 2026
Harold Dean Lane, 75, of Warsaw, passed away after a short illness on March 12, 2026. He was born to the late James T. Lane and Betty Inez Lane on February 9, 1951. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Devotional Gardens, Warsaw, NC 28398. In lieu of owers, memorials may be sent to Calvary Baptist Church, 709 Memorial Drive, Warsaw, NC 28398, or Warsaw Fire Department, 714 N. Pine Street, Warsaw, NC 28398. Dean is survived by brother Bobby Lane and wife, Julie of Warsaw, nieces, Sarah Lanier and husband, Curtis of Beulaville, NC, and Amy Bauer and husband, Justin of South Dakota, nephews John Lane and wife, Brittany of Washington, NC, and Justin Lane. In addition to his parents, Dean was preceded in death by his brother, James Ray Lane.
Sherwood Arminius Johnson
Jan. 1, 1938 – March 8, 2026
Sherwood Arminius Johnson, age 88, of Magnolia, N.C., passed away on March 8, 2026, in Burgaw, N.C. Born on January 1, 1938, to Arminius and Edna Stanton Johnson, Sherwood was a man of enduring faith, productive work, love for his country, and energetic participation in hymn singing. Sherwood is survived by his dedicated companion, Faye Rivenbark, his son Robert Wayne Johnson (Pam) and grandson, Ronald Wayne Johnson; his sister Joy Johnson Guenther (Chris), nephew Mark (Diane) and niece Stacey (Dana). Also survived by former wife Loretta Dennis Johnson and former wife Linda Daughtry. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Edna and Arminius Johnson. Sherwood graduated from Franklin High School and attended NC State University and East Carolina University. He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, later returning to his home in Sampson County, where he lived and worked as a farmer, professional truck driver, and active member of his church. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Evergreen Baptist Church.
Forrest Stanley Roberts Sr.
April 28, 1939 –March 11, 2026
Forrest Stanley Roberts, Sr., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at his home.
A memorial service will be Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. with visitation starting at 1 p.m.
He is survived by his wife, Virginia Roberts of Beulaville, NC; son Forrest Stanley Roberts Jr. (Marjorie), of Pennsylvania; daughter Karen Woroschinski (Gary) of Florida; brothers Harold Eugene Roberts Jr. (Carol) of Pennsylvania and Edmund Roberts (Margaret) of Tennessee; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Pamela Smith Ennis
May 10, 1956 –March 11, 2026
Pamela Smith Ennis, 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her home.
A memorial service will be Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Smith Presbyterian Church in Pink Hill, NC. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
She is survived by her husband, Stanley Ennis of Pink Hill, NC; mother Hilda Grace Smith of Pink Hill, NC; sons David Grady Jr. and Christopher A. Grady, both of Pink Hill, NC; sister Kimberly Rose Hill (Tony) of Deep Run, NC; brother Dearld Smith (Nessie), of Pink Hill, NC; grandchildren Silar Wil Grady, Cheyenne Singleton and Christopher Singleton; and nephews Logan and Chase Smith of Pink Hill.
Rebecca Hall Davidson
June 6, 1935 – March 9, 2026
Rebecca Hall Davidson, born
Susie Mae Rebecca Hall, entered this world on June 6, 1935, in Rose Hill, North Carolina (Duplin County). She was the beloved daughter of Joe Tim Hall, Sr., and Julia Ann Lee (Hall), and was later lovingly raised with the guidance of her stepfather, Mr. Louis Lee. From an early age, Rebecca demonstrated a deep compassion for others and a sincere desire to help young people succeed.
Rebecca received her early education through Duplin County Public Schools before pursuing higher education at Stillman College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science in 1957. She later continued her studies at East Carolina University, focusing on Social Work and Correctional Science.
On July 10, 1958, Rebecca married the love of her life, Rudolph Thomas Davidson. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Lucille and Sheila, and their family remained the center of Rebecca’s life.
Rebecca devoted her professional career to helping young people nd direction and opportunity.
Her career in youth services began as a teacher with Buncombe County Schools in Asheville, North Carolina. In 1965, she joined the North Carolina Department of Human Resources, Division of Youth Services, beginning a career that would span three decades of dedicated public service.
Her work began as a Cottage Parent at the Juvenile Evaluation Center in Asheville. In 1969, she transferred to Dobbs School in Kinston, North Carolina, where she served as Cottage Parent, Unit Administrator, and Program Manager before being appointed
Director of Dobbs School in August 1992.
During her leadership, Rebecca worked tirelessly to strengthen programs for the youth served by the institution. One of the proudest accomplishments of her tenure was guiding Dobbs School through the rigorous accreditation process with the American Correctional Association, achieving national accreditation and helping ensure the highest standards of care and accountability.
After 30 years of distinguished service, Rebecca retired on June 30, 1995.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the State of North Carolina, she was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by the Governor of North Carolina.
Rebecca’s dedication to service extended beyond her career. She served on the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners for the City of Kinston, later becoming Vice Chairperson, helping advocate for housing opportunities for families and seniors.
Faith played a central role in Rebecca’s life. She was a member of New Bethel A.M.E. Church in Magnolia, North Carolina, and later became a devoted member of St. Augustus AME Zion Church, where she faithfully served as Head of Mission Outreach.
Rebecca also became a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in April 2000, and in 2025, she was honored as a 25-Year Member of the sorority.
Rebecca was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rudolph Thomas Davidson; her youngest daughter, Sheila D. Pressley; her parents, Joe Tim Hall, Sr., and Julia Ann Lee (Hall); her stepfather, Mr. Louis Lee; her brothers Lenon Allen Hall, Joe Tim Hall, and Lewis Hall; and her nephew Lenon Allen Hall, Jr. She leaves to cherish her memory her oldest daughter, R. Lucille Samuel (Bernard) of El Paso, Texas; her grandchildren Terrence D. Samuel, Kametra Marzette, Chase Pressley, and Parks Pressley; her nieces and nephews Colleen Graham and Jesse Hall; along with a host of additional nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and dear friends.
Rebecca Hall Davidson lived a life de ned by faith, service, leadership, and love for others. Her legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Roy James Kelly
Sept. 15, 1941 –March 10, 2026
Roy James Kelly, age 84, of Magnolia, left this earthly life for his eternal home in Heaven on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
He was born on September 15, 1941, in Duplin County, the son of the late Major James and Mary Lou Bishop Kelly. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Wilbert Earl Kelly, and his sisters, Adelia Bryan and Nellie Hamilton.
Roy proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. He was employed at J.P. Stevens for 38 years until his retirement.
Surviving to cherish his memory is his best friend and wife of 38 years Linda Newkirk Kelly of the home; sons Jamie Kelly and wife Crystal of Wallace and Jason Kelly and wife Jane of Magnolia; daughter Carrie Burch and husband Charles of Rose Hill; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; one greatgreat grandson; Arnold Kelly and wife Elizabeth of Magnolia; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Roy dearly. Roy was a devoted husband and caring father, grandfather and brother. He was a simple man who enjoyed the simple things in life, such as spending time with family, cutting wood, farming, and growing watermelons and peanuts. With a green thumb, Roy could grow just about anything. Roy was a witty, happy-go-lucky man who never met a stranger. He loved people and was loved in return. His favorite breakfast, snack or ‘go too’ was a Sundrop and Lance crackers. Most of all, Roy was a godly man who loved his Lord, his family and his country. He will surely be missed but treasured memories of him will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved Roy.
Funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday evening, March 12, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home, Wallace Chapel. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.
Graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Devotional Gardens in Warsaw, NC.
Mary Catherine Burgett Brown
Gregory
Aug. 11, 1931 – March 4, 2026
Mary Catherine Burgett Brown Gregory, 94, formerly of Warsaw, NC, passed peacefully to her Heavenly home on March 4, 2026, in Mesa, AZ. She was born near Roseboro, NC, to the late Stephen Love and Ella Branch Burgett. “Cathy” was predeceased by her parents; seven brothers and two sisters; husband, Joel C. Brown, Sr., and Alvin L. Gregory; sons Joel Jr. and Ronald.
She married Joel C. Brown, Sr., on May 11, 1947, and they had ve children. Cathy was a farm girl who lived during the Great Depression and World War II. She attended Concord, McDaniels and Mingo schools.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 7-9 p.m. at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw and at other times at Faye Carter’s home in Warsaw. A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Warsaw Community Funeral Home in Warsaw. Burial will follow in Pinecrest Cemetery. Her grandson, Dr. Mike Woods of Raleigh, will o ciate. Basketball was her favorite sport, and she was a good player. Cathy developed her “fashion sense” from her friend Edna Baggett. She was an excellent cook and seamstress, loved oldtime gospel music, and enjoyed entertaining at her home. As a young lady, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and was active in her church.
In 1964, she and her children moved to Moore, OK, where she met and later married Alvin Gregory in June 1969. In 2009, after retirement, they moved to Warsaw, NC, where they became dedicated members of Warsaw United Methodist Church.
Cathy moved to Norman, OK, to live with her daughter, Vickie, and later to Mesa, AZ, where she lived with her daughter, Denise, until her death. Both of her daughters gave her exceptional love and care. She will be missed and remembered by all who loved and knew her.
Left to cherish her memory are: daughters, Linda Overby, Coats, NC, Vickie Kelly and husband, Skip, Norman, OK, Denise Whitehouse and husband, Brad, Mesa, AZ; sister, Faye Carter, Warsaw, NC; 12 grandchildren, 36 greatgrandchildren, and two greatgreat-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
The family is grateful for the loving care provided by Hospice, doctors, nurses, and caregivers in AZ. A special thank you to her granddaughter, Vickie Dawn Morris, for her love and care for her grandmother. The family would also like to thank the Southwest Airlines family for their support.
