VOLUME 10 ISSUE 23 | THURSDAY, JULY 31, 2025
DUPLINJOURNAL.COM
Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
the
BRIEF this week
7 arrested during saturation patrols Duplin County Seven individuals were arrested during a targeted saturation patrol operation conducted on July 24 by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office in the northern part of the county. Deputies stopped 47 vehicles, issuing 27 citations, one written warning, and more than 25 verbal warnings. Saturation patrols are commonly used to address concerns such as impaired driving, drug activity and traffic violations. The operation was part of a proactive strategy to increase law enforcement visibility and deter criminal activity.
Women’s Care open house set for July 31 Kenansville ECU Health Women’s Care is holding an open house July 31 from 5:30-7 p.m. to celebrate the opening of its new, larger clinic located at 750 S. Kenansville Bypass in Kenansville. Guests can meet the care team, tour the facility and learn about available women’s health services. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 910-296-2815.
Teen Court seeks volunteers Kenansville Duplin County Teen Court is looking for volunteer ambassadors to support its peer-led justice program while building leadership, communication and critical thinking skills. For more information, call 910-275-0003 or email teencourt@mceconline.org.
Blood drive at ECU Health Duplin Hospital Kenansville ECU Health Duplin Hospital will host its next blood drive on Aug. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the hospital grounds at 401 N. Main St. in Kenansville.
Wallace Parks launches Coffee and Community program Wallace Wallace Parks and Recreation will kick off a new Coffee and Community program Friday, Aug. 8 for adults at the Clement Park Community Center. The initiative is designed to combat loneliness and help build connections among adults who may feel isolated or lack a strong support system. With nearly 45% of Duplin County residents aged 45 and older, the program responds to a growing need for social engagement. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, meet your neighbors, and take part in activities like puzzles, card games, adult coloring, arts and crafts, and more. For more information, contact Kate at 910-285-2905.
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MARK BRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Wallace Police train for real-world threats A Wallace police officer confronts an “armed” intruder during active threat training at Wallace Elementary School, last week. Live-action drills teach officers to act quickly and decisively when lives are on the line. Turn to A6 to read the story.
Dixon announces bid for 9th term in state House The District 4 representative dismissed speculation about his retirement
Duplin County Schools superintendent dies Austin Obasohan guided Duplin County Schools through significant growth, challenges and innovation By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal VETERAN LAWMAKER and Duplin County farmer Jimmy Dixon (R-Duplin) has announced his decision to seek reelection to the North Carolina House of Representatives, ending recent speculation about a potential retirement and aiming for a ninth two-year term representing District 4. In an exclusive interview with Duplin Journal, Dixon reflected on his tenure with characteristic humility and humor, acknowledging the personal sacrifices that come with public service, particularly the time spent away from his grandchildren. “Probably the thing I’m most proud of is that my
Rep. Jimmy Dixon
See DIXON, page A6
KENANSVILLE — Austin Obasohan, the longtime superintendent of Duplin County Schools (DCS) and a voice for equity and innovation in rural education, died July 24 after serving 15 years at the helm of the district. He was 65. His leadership reshaped local schools and left a lasting mark on students, educators and the community. “We are all truly saddened,” said Board of Education Chair Brent Davis, who confirmed the news. “He was such an amazing leader and wonderful person.” Originally from western Africa, Obasohan brought a global perspective and a strong belief in the power of education to shape lives. During his tenure, DCS underwent several key changes, including the
Duplin Elections Board sworn in “We want to have fair, true elections that nobody has a question about transparency.” Ann Henderson
Officials work to verify 900 voter registrations as part of preparations for upcoming elections By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — On July 22, the Duplin County Board of Elections meeting room was a full house for the swearing-in of new and returning board members. Duplin County Register of Deeds Anita Savage administered the oath of office to three returning board members — Ann Henderson of Wallace, Angela Mainor of Warsaw, and Vickie Ezzell of Rose Hill — along with new member Roland Perry of Beulaville. A fourth returning member, Michael Lynch of Wallace, was unable to attend the ceremony and was sworn in later that day by Board of Elections Director Carrie Sullivan.
Henderson was elected as the new chair of the board, replacing Mainor, who will now serve as secretary after many years as chair. Following the ceremony, board members introduced themselves to those in attendance, with their comments centered on the importance of open and transparent elections. “We want to have fair, true elections that nobody has a question about transparency,” board chair Henderson said. “Regardless of who’s in control, quote, unquote, it’s still a bipartisan board,” Ezzell said. “There’s no room in this office for partisanship. The voters of the county are our most important priority.” Mainor added, “I look forward to being nonpartisan. I don’t see people as Republicans. I don’t see people as Democrats. I don’t see people See BOARD, page A5
consolidation of schools from 16 to 13. The district adopted the STEAMA framework, which expands the traditional STEM model to include the arts and agriculture. “This innovative approach not only broadened students’ exposure to diverse career pathways but also connected classroom learning to real-world experiences, especially in a rural, agriculturally rich community like Duplin County,” Duplin County Schools shared in a public statement. Under Obasohan’s leadership, the district also launched early college high school programs, positioning Duplin County as a national model for expanding access to postsecondary education. Guided by faith and a sense of purpose, he viewed public education See OBASOHAN, page A2
Austin Obasohan
“As the leader of our school family and a deeply cherished, godly friend, he held a special place in our hearts. His absence will be felt profoundly.” Carol Wimmer