VOLUME 10 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
DUPLINJOURNAL.COM
Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries celebrates 20 years
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Board of Education appoints new interim superintendent Daren Tyndall steps into the leadership role following the death of Austin Obasohan By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Duplin County Schools is turning to a familiar and trusted leader to help guide the district through a time of transition. During a special meeting Monday, the Duplin County Board of Education appointed Daren Tyndall as the interim superintendent of the school system. The decision came 11 days after the death of Austin Obasohan, a deeply respected leader who served the district for 15 years. “I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as interim superintendent,” said Tyndall. “Duplin County Schools has always been home to me, and I am deeply committed to supporting our students, staff and families as we continue working together to ensure success for every child while honoring Dr. Obasohan’s memory and building upon the strong foundation he established.” Tyndall’s long-standing relationships across the district and deep understanding of its culture uniquely position him to lead during this pivotal time. While the board initiates its search for a permanent superintendent, members have voiced their complete trust in Tyndall’s ability to carry forward the district’s mission. With more than three decades of service within Duplin County Schools, Tyndall is no stranger to the needs, values and strengths of the community. His career has included roles as teacher, assistant principal, principal, central office leader and most recently assistant superintendent for Human Resources, a role he has held for the past four years.
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On Sunday, Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries (DCOM) celebrated its 20th anniversary with a heartfelt program at its headquarters on South Norwood Street in Wallace. DCOM co-founder Philip Gladden, right, presents a plaque to co-founder James Page, left, during the ministry’s 20th anniversary celebration on Sunday afternoon, naming Page a board member emeritus. Turn to A2 for the story.
Concerns over staffing, spending drive crowds to commissioners meeting Public outrage mounts in Duplin County amid employee concerns and closed-door decisions
There was a full house at the County Commissioners meeting on Aug. 4. Attendees stood for a moment of silence in memory of late Duplin County Schools Superintendent Austin Obasohan.
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
ENA SELLERS / DUPLIN JOURNAL
KENANSVILLE — A large crowd attended the Duplin County Commissioners meeting Monday night, with the room filled to capacity and people spilling into the receiving area. Public interest surged following recent departmental changes, the dissolution of the Tour-
ism Development Authority and the purchase of a corporate golf membership, among other topics. Despite a lengthy statement from county officials attempting to address the public’s concerns, the public called for more transparency. Jessica Thomas, who leads the group Duplin County Coalition See COUNTY, page A5
After 20-year run, Muscadine Festival hits pause Organizers cite a breakdown in negotiations with the events center as the reason for the postponement By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — The NC Muscadine Festival, a hallmark event for Duplin County for the past two decades, has officially been postponed until 2026. Traditionally held each fall at the
Duplin Events Center, the festival has showcased the county’s unique charm and Southern hospitality, bringing pride and economic vitality to the area as it celebrates North Carolina’s native muscadine grape and attracts thousands of visitors from across the state.
While some initially suggested that the recent dissolution of the Duplin County Tourism Authority was the reason for the postponement, longtime festival organizer Tom Fife clarified that the festival is not a county-run event. He noted that a change in financial terms with the events center was at the heart of the decision. “The Muscadine Festival Committee puts this event on,
Frustrations over wastewater restrictions continue to grow “I think it’s time we have a new set of eyes look at the problem and offer solutions.” Glenn Holland
DEQ explains the town’s ongoing consent order and the path forward, including no new wastewater capacity By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal MOUNT OLIVE — The issue of Mount Olive’s challenges regarding its wastewater treatment facility and the state-issued moratorium on any additional flow through the facility took center stage once again at the town’s Board of Commissioners meeting Monday evening. At the invitation of interim town manager Glenn Holland, Caroline Bari from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Infrastructure
gave a PowerPoint presentation explaining the issues leading to the wastewater moratorium placed on the town, as well as what steps will be needed to bring the system into compliance. Bari got involved in the town’s wastewater woes about 18 months ago as a result of her duties, which include working with distressed units like the town’s wastewater treatment system. “The town is under a special order, by consent,” Bari said. “It was issued by the Division of Water Resources because the town is having trouble, especially during heavy rainwater events, with untreated sewage being released.” According to Bari, the current consent order is not the See MOUNT OLIVE, page A6
and all of the expenses are paid through our 501(c)(3),” said Fife. He said the nonprofit operates on a tight budget, typically breaking even or generating only a modest surplus. In previous years, the committee was responsible for paying for venue rental and labor. However, in 2024, they were unexpectedly asked to cover the cost of tables, See FESTIVAL, page A6