Duplin Journal Vol. 11, Issue 7

Duplin Journal

BRIEF this

week

Road Closure

Rose Hill

J.B. Stroud Road over I-40 near Tracy Brown Road is closed for bridge deck repairs until 5 p.m. May 8, weather permitting. Drivers can detour via Tracy Brown Road, N.C. 903, and Leonard Rich Road.

Economic Development Commission

Appointments

Duplin County Charley Farrior and Carrie Shields were recently reappointed to the Duplin County Economic Development Commission for a threeyear term (July 1, 2026 –June 30, 2029). Shannon Hair was appointed to complete Jay Carraway’s unexpired term through June 30, 2026, and reappointed for a threeyear term starting July 1, 2026.

University of Mount Olive Plant Sale

Mount Olive

The University of Mount Olive will hold its annual Plant Sale on April 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the campus greenhouse, 205 Bert Martin Drive. A rain date is set for April 11. Most items are priced $2–$12, with proceeds supporting student education.

Trans guration Church to Host 20th Anniversary Concert

Wallace

The Trans guration of Jesus Catholic Church will host a special choral concert on April 24 at 6 p.m. in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Lara Capparuccia serving as music director.

Deed dispute, tensions dominate Mount Olive meeting the

The program will feature a selection of sacred choral anthems, including works by Antonio Vivaldi such as “All Earth Rejoice with a Gladsome Voice,” as well as pieces by American composer Natalie Sleeth, including selections from “Sing a New Song to the Lord.”

Original compositions by Capparuccia and her daughter, Marquita Someliana-Lauer, will also be performed.

The concert is free and open to the public. Following the performance, attendees are invited to enjoy co ee and cookies in the church’s Founders Hall.

Knowles recognized for decades of service with governor’s award

The county retired four long-serving employees, approved surplus sales and updated policies

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Duplin

County o cials celebrated decades of volunteer service, honored retiring employees, and discussed rapid growth and major infrastructure projects during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Monday night.

Harvey Knowles was named Duplin County’s recipient of the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award and will also receive the Governor’s Medallion Award for

Volunteer Service at a statewide ceremony in May in Raleigh.

Knowles, 95, has volunteered for decades in Wallace, providing support to veterans, rst responders, local schools, and community organizations. He has raised funds to equip emergency vehicles with automated external de brillators for the Wallace Police Department, Wallace Volunteer Fire Department, and Wallace Parks and Recreation.

A strong advocate for veterans, the retired U.S. Army major regularly participates in Memorial Day and Veterans Day events. He also visits nursing homes, where he plays hymns on his harmonica for residents, and he regularly organizes meals for rst responders during training events.

Knowles has coordinated do-

The board hired a new town manager and recalled a deed, citing con ict of interest concerns

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — Tempers ared at Monday night’s Mount Olive Board of Commissioners meeting. Once again, the

source of contention was Mayor Jerome Newton’s signing of a deed for the former Carver High School building that has been the home of two nonpro t organizations under an agreement with the town.

nations of more than 100 bicycles for children and has organized food drives for local pantries. He has also contributed to disaster relief e orts, school projects, and fundraising for community programs.

In addition to larger e orts, Knowles is known for smaller, consistent acts of outreach. He maintains contact lists across multiple organizations and regularly calls or visits individuals to o er birthday wishes and encouragement, particularly to older residents.

County o cials said Knowles’ volunteer work is sustained, personal, and impacts residents of all ages, making him a notable example of long-term community service.

The county also honored four

long-serving public employees for their retirement. Katherine “Kay” Mitchell retired after 27 years with the Health Department, where she began as a maternal outreach worker and later worked as a WIC processing assistant. Dr. Elizabeth Gri n, a pediatrician, served from May 2009 through August 2025, providing annual child health physicals and bilingual care. Simone Vann retired after 30 years, assisting in maternal outreach, health check coordination, telehealth programs, and disaster response, including Hurricanes Florence, Matthew, and Dorian, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. Van received the State of the Long Leaf Pine Award.

the deed is relinquished back to the town if the nonpro t, or another nonpro t, no longer occupies the building or is dissolved.

At a previous meeting, the board had asked the town attorney, Carroll Turner, to work with an attorney for one of the nonpro ts, ALDA, Inc., to provide a deed for their occupation of a portion of the building. Under state law, any deed for a building originally owned by the state and turned over to a local government must contain a clause that

Butterball worker red during cancer treatment sparks federal lawsuit

The EEOC alleges the employee was unlawfully terminated after missing work to undergo chemotherapy

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

$2.00

A FEDERAL DISABILITY discrimination lawsuit led by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on April 1 is putting Butterball, LLC’s Mount Olive operations under scrutiny, alleging the company failed to accommodate an employee undergoing cancer treatment and unlawfully terminated

her in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

According to the EEOC, the case involves a longtime employee who was diagnosed with breast cancer and requested intermittent leave to undergo chemotherapy treatments and recovery. The lawsuit alleges that the employee informed Butterball of her medical condition and need for leave but was redirected to a third-party bene ts administrator. However, the leave was never approved, and the employee began receiving attendance violations under the company’s policy

The other nonpro t in the building, the Carver High School Alumni and Friends Association, has Newton serving as its president. Therefore, not only did the mayor not have the permission of the board to sign a separate deed speci cally for that organization, but his action also resulted in claims of a con ict of interest by some board members.

As occurred during a special meeting on March 12, Mayor Pro

Ena

Patsy Teachey Advertising

Loretta Carey

O ce Manager

CONTACT US

O ce Phone: 910 463-1240

To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

NEW BUSINESS

A total of nine assumed business names were recorded with the Duplin County Register of Deeds O ce for the month ending March 31, according to o cial lings.

The newly registered businesses and their associated owners or entities include:

WCM Industrial Solutions — William Christopher Miller and William C. Miller

• The Traveling Gypsy — Nichole A. Ramey

Dee’s Unlimited — Delores Newkirk Hall

KRS A ordable Tree Service

— Kenneth R. Simmons

• JCO Campground at Lee

Baysden Pond — Juniper Creek Out tters, LLC and Contessa Jones

B and E Electric — Brandon Sutton

C2 Biogas (also listed as C2 Biogas NC and Carbon Cycle Biogas) — Carbon Cycle North Carolina LLC

• Down 2 Earth Sheds — Curtis M. Jones and Curtis Jones

Warsaw Hardware Store

— Carlos Eduardo Isaula Hernandez and Carlos Isaula

In addition, two assumed business name withdrawals were recorded during the same period:

• Duplin Quality Masonry and Roo ng — Jasmin Reyes Cruz

C2E Renewables NC — Carbon Cycle North Carolina LLC

Editor’s Note: Assumed business name lings allow individuals or entities to operate under a name di erent from their legal name and are maintained as part of public record by the county.

THURSDAY APRIL 9

FRIDAY APRIL 10

SATURDAY APRIL 11

SUNDAY APRIL 12

MONDAY APRIL 13

Industrial expansion gains momentum

Economic Development Commission eyes long-term gains as AirPark and SouthPark projects take shape

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

A LINE MADE popular in the 1989 Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner, “If you build it, they will come,” appears to be an accurate description of shell buildings being constructed in Duplin County industrial parks by the Duplin County Economic Development Commission.

During the Duplin County Economic Development board meeting on April 2, moved from the normal meeting time on Fridays due to the Easter weekend, Economic Development Director Scotty Summerlin said interest is growing in the shell buildings nearing completion in the SouthPark and AirPark industrial complexes.

Summerlin said the commission is receiving calls asking about the purchase or lease prices of the buildings. The board discussed a beginning price for purchasing the 50,000-square-foot shell buildings, but held short on recommending a lease price until more research is done on what leases are running on comparable buildings in nearby counties.

The shell building in SouthPark Industrial Center near Wallace is rapidly nearing completion with a second one in the AirPark expected to be completed soon. An additional 50,000-square-foot shell building in AirPark will begin construction soon, and another 30,000-square-foot building was approved during a recent board meeting after learning there would be funds remaining in the existing grant from the state to build yet another one. The board quickly moved to approve the

DUPLIN happening

new project after learning any funds remaining in the grant at the end of June would have to be returned to the state. The third AirPark shell building was approved at this meeting with a recommendation that the bid be awarded to Daniels & Daniels Construction. Final approval will come from the Duplin County Commissioners.

In addition to the shell buildings being constructed under the grant, several short-term housing units will be built in the AirPark, and infrastructure improvements were made to build roads, add electrical service, as well as water and sewer service to the new shell buildings and housing locations. The shell buildings are not the only projects going up at the Duplin County Airport and AirPark. A new corporate hangar is under construction at the airport and the N.C. Forest Service has begun clearing land in the AirPark for construction of its new regional headquarters.

In other business, the board approved Summerlin’s request to allocate up to $500,000 to be paid to Tri-County EMC for the electrical service installation throughout the AirPark property. In addition to electrical service, the fund will be

used to place lighting throughout the complex.

The board also voted to request that the Duplin County Commissioners approve a contract with RiteLite Signs for constructing four new entranceway signs at each of the county’s industrial parks. A lively discussion occurred near the end of the meeting when it was suggested that pro ts from any sale of the shell buildings could possibly be placed in the county’s general fund by the county commissioners. Several Economic Development Board members said that action would be “short-sighted” on the part of the commissioners because keeping the funds within Economic Development would mean the ability to construct more shell buildings and projects that could greatly enhance the tax base for the county, making that approach more economically attractive for the county in the long term. The board welcomed a new member, Shannon Hair, president of James Sprunt Community College, who replaced Jay Carroway, who left the board after his retirement from JSCC. The board also approved the renewal of all existing board members for a continued term.

BUTTERBALL from page A1

for absences that were directly related to her cancer treatment. She was ultimately red under the company’s attendance policy. The EEOC argues that this conduct is unlawful under the ADA, which requires employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” to employees with disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship to the business. Under the law, employees with serious medical conditions may be entitled to reasonable accommodations,

such as modi ed schedules or intermittent leave for medical treatment.

The agency also emphasized that employers cannot avoid responsibility by outsourcing leave management; they remain legally accountable for ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination laws.

The lawsuit was led in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina after attempts to resolve the issue through the EEOC’s conciliation process failed. Through this legal action, the EEOC seeks to hold Butterball

accountable and reinforce the principle that employees with serious health conditions are entitled to fair treatment and necessary workplace accommodations under federal law.

“Even when an employer hires a third-party bene ts administrator, the employer remains responsible for complying with anti-discrimination law,” the agency stated in announcing the lawsuit.

Butterball, when reached for comment, told Duplin Journal through a representative that the company does not comment on ongoing legal matters.

April 11

ecoBLAST Green & Wild

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Cowan Museum of History and Science along with the North Carolina Science Festival are teaming up to bring ecoBLAST: Green & Wild to Duplin County.

411 S. Main St., Kenansville

Free Childbirth Class

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

ECU Health Duplin Hospital will o er a free childbirth class for expectant mothers between 28–35 weeks. The session provides hands-on guidance and education on labor and delivery.

401 N. Main St., Kenansville

2026 Miss Jabberwock Cotillion

6 p.m.

The Duplin County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. presents the 2026 Miss Jabberwock Cotillion at The River Landing Clubhouse. Doors open at 5 p.m. Free entry. The event celebrates young women exemplifying grace and leadership.

109 Paddlewheel Drive, Wallace

April 15

Pork Forward

Smith eld Foods will host Pork Forward at the Sampson County Exposition Center. The event will bring together industry professionals for educational sessions, exhibits, networking and demonstrations focused on innovation in the pork industry.

414 Warsaw Road, Clinton

April 18

Garden Gala

1 p.m.

Southeastern Gardens of NC at Johnson Nursery hosts the Garden Gala, kicking o festival season. The event features lunch by The Mad Boar, drinks, live music by Mark Da er, garden tours, a silent auction and an afterparty at The Mad Boar. 985 Johnson Nursery Road, Willard

Faison board makes key appointments

O cials approved new hires, raises and projects during the April meeting

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

FAISON — Mayor Billy Ward thanked Town Clerk Sharon Lee for 19 years of service to the town at the start of Wednesday night’s board meeting. He wished Lee, who was present in the audience, a happy retirement.

The board discussed the layout of activities and events for the 250th celebration scheduled for June 27. The event is set to be held at the Stewart Precythe Soccer Complex at 184 Park Circle in Faison. During the board meeting, the board approved adding a foam party to the activities at the event. A billboard designed by Faison Improvement Group (FIG) will advertise the event along the highway for nearly a month from the end of May until the event.

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Executive Administrator Jimmy Tyndall, right, administers the oath of o ce to Mayor Billy Ward as he takes on the additional role of nance o cer.

The board approved the addition of a trophy case for the Dixie Youth at the Recreation Center. Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Scott said that the addition would be a point of community pride that allows the teams to show

o their accomplishments.

“Right now the trophies are just sitting in people’s houses waiting for a place to go,” Scott said. The Dixie Youth have volunteered to build the case themselves to the board specications of stained wood, glass shelves and a tempered glass

front. No funds were requested to complete the project.

In other news, the board accepted resignation letters from two town employees, Blair Cox and Debbie Benson, and approved two new hires at Parks and Recreation, Jan Best and Kylie Pickleton. A public hearing for the 2026-27 budget was set for the May 6 board meeting at 7 p.m. Budget amendments were approved to move funds to straighten out the Powell Bill. Ward swore in Kelly Parks as the new town clerk, and she was added to the town’s accounts with Southern Bank and N.C. Capital Management Trust. The board also approved 5% raises — 3% based on merit evaluations and 2% cost-of-living increases for town employees. Ward presented the issue and options again for the town’s need for a nance o cer. The board voted unanimously to appoint Ward as the town’s Finance O cer, and Executive Administrator Jimmy Tyndall swore him in. Mayor Ward will

serve as nance o cer on paper only; the board approved contracting with CPA Beverly Stroud to do the actual work. In the commissioner reports, Commissioner Christy Allen asked the board to approve adding Sarah Henderson to the Cemetery Committee, and the board approved the request.

Commissioner Sandy McCarty shared that the Faison Fire Department has responded to 86 calls so far this year. In February, they responded to 24 medical calls, ve structure res, seven motor vehicle crashes, three outside res, one re alarm, ve safety calls and one good-intent call.

Commissioner Carolyn Kenyon shared that there were few law enforcement calls to report; some warrants were served and a few “ im am” scams were reported. Mayor Ward shared that the highway patrol has been present in town almost daily, watching tra c and ticketing speeders. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

Multiple projects advance at Duplin County Airport

Leaders outlined the expansion e orts during the county manager’s visit

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Interim

County Manager Lisa Hughes was welcomed to the Duplin County Airport Board meeting March 24, as o cials showcased progress on major projects and emphasized the airport’s role in the county’s growth.

“We are proud of our airport here. We think this is one of the gems of Duplin County, and it is our desire that this is an airport that shines light favorably on Duplin County. We work hard to see that happens,” said Board Chairman Jack Alphin, as he welcomed Hughes. “I am proud of the board we have and the work they do outside of this meeting

DISPUTE from page A1

Tem Delreese Simmons made a motion for Newton to be recused from the meeting when the issue of the deed appeared on the agenda. It was at the March 12 meeting that the board passed a resolution stripping the mayor of privileges ranging from signing any checks on behalf of the town to limiting his access to town hall except between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and noon, Monday through Friday. The resolution also prohibits Newton from signing or negotiating any documents on behalf of the town without the approval of the commissioners.

Newton challenged Simmons’

to get support. We take our job seriously.”

After Hughes gave a brief introduction about her background, o cials detailed ongoing improvements and future plans.

Airport Director Joshua Raynor provided an update on the hangar project.

“All the doors and lights are up. They are painting exposed metal, polishing the oors, framing the o ce space, and starting on drywall. Next week they will put in windows and start pouring concrete,” Raynor said. Raynor explained how the new apron would be constructed to match the existing one and detailed the rehabilitation work on the hangars.

“Hangar 1 is almost done, and Hangar 2 will start on Thursday,” he said. “Once they nish the community hangar, they will start reskinning the old T-hangars,” he said. Old metal re-

discussion, which led to occasional outbursts from audience members.

Commissioner C.J. Weaver asked the mayor questions on two di erent occasions, rst regarding his actions in signing the deed that had not been approved by the commissioners. Later, Weaver asked Newton if he had, during his rst term, looked at sealed records of a town employee. Newton said that he had.

In a vote of 3-2, the board voted to recall the deed with the Carver High School Alumni and Friends Association signed by the mayor so that a new, approved deed could be created.

The vice president of the organi-

moved during the project will be scrapped for the county.

Hunter Boniface updated the board on closing out funding for the completed taxiway connector project.

“We made some progress on closing that one out,” Boniface said. “Today, our contact with the state approved it, so it will go on to one more level of review. We are hopeful we can take it o the list (have it paid) before next month.”

Boniface also con rmed that the fuel farm is “on pace” to start construction the rst week of April and is expected to be completed in about three months. Raynor added that a fuel truck will be used to keep the airport running smoothly while the fuel farm is in transition.

Greg VanderMolen gave an update on the life-cycle cost analysis for the apron rehabilitation project.

“DOA has approved our life cycle cost analysis that concrete is an acceptable way to go,” VanderMolen said. “They have not funded it yet, but we are hoping to complete (90% funding documentation) and hopefully get more good news shortly thereafter,” VanderMolen said. “We at least got them past that rst step of saying concrete is OK — that’s a big step.”

The airport’s nance plans were discussed, outlining how the county and airport will cover the airport’s portion of the apron rehabilitation project.

“It could get funded this year, but may be built next year (depending on the weather),” Raynor said. He also provided an update on the airport maintenance building.

“Preliminary soil testing has been done to be sure the area is ready for a prefabricated build-

ing. In a later agenda item, the board voted 3-2 against extending Newton’s hours of access to town hall.

In other business, the board approved a contract with a new town manager. Octavus Murphy, who replaces interim town manager Glenn Holland, who will return to his original position overseeing the town’s troubled water and sewer system. Murphy comes to the position after serving as assistant to the city man-

Octavus Murphy, right, is sworn in as Mount Olive’s new town manager by town clerk Sherry Davis, left. Murphy’s wife held the Bible during the ceremony.

ager in Goldsboro, where he will continue to serve as the town’s strategic and community initiatives manager.

In an interview after the meeting with Duplin Journal, Murphy said he was born and raised in Duplin and Wayne counties. He mentioned what he considers to be his rst priorities as town manager.

“Just building relationships,” Murphy said. “I think it’s important that I become an e ec-

ing,” Raynor said. “Our next step is to put in a request for proposals to get a building.”

The board discussed access to the area during construction and potential building materials.

The proposed 2026-27 budget was presented, with Raynor explaining adjustments based on expected needs. Board members reviewed the operating budget for fuel sales and explored ways to attract and increase transient tra c. In March, the airport recorded 395 operations, sold 1,242 gallons of avgas and 15,000 gallons of jet fuel.

The board discussed sources of funding, potential growth for the county, and how commerce can bene t from ight access in the area. Alphin challenged everyone to embrace “out-of-the-box” thinking to “not miss opportunities” that are coming. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

tive communicator. I think it’s important that I understand the priorities of the mayor and board of commissioners.”

The board also approved a new contract with longtime town attorney Carroll Turner.

A public hearing was also held on changing the mayor’s and commissioners’ term lengths from two-year to four-year staggered terms. The issue brought several comments from the audience both pro and con. However, when the audience was asked to show by raising their hands whether they supported a fouryear staggered term or a twoyear staggered term, the show of hands supported keeping the current two-year term system. During closing comments from Newton, he encouraged the town to begin to work together to solve problems, adding that the town could become the target of a state takeover if town ocials do not resolve issues among themselves.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

In today’s NBA, beliefs can be a firing o ense

THERE ARE PLENTY of things an

NBA player can do and still keep his job.

League history is littered with examples: players involved in o -court scandals, arrests, even allegations of serious violence. Time and again, teams and the league have found ways to look past behavior that, in most professions, would be career-ending.

But there appears to be one line that cannot be crossed — especially during Holy Week.

That line, it seems, is expressing a traditional religious belief.

Enter Jaden Ivey.

The former Purdue standout was the fth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, a rising young guard who averaged 16 points and ve assists as a rookie with the Detroit Pistons. By his third season, he was approaching 18 points per game before an injury derailed his momentum. Eventually, he landed with the Chicago Bulls.

By all accounts, Ivey was a productive player still on the rise.

Then came an Instagram video.

In it, Ivey — now a newly converted Christian — criticized the NBA’s celebration of Pride Month. His comments re ected a conventional religious viewpoint: that pride, as celebrated in this context, con icts with Christian teachings on sin.

“They proclaim Pride Month,” Ivey said. “They say, ‘Come join us ... to celebrate unrighteousness.’”

That was enough.

The Bulls waived him, citing “conduct detrimental to the team.”

The phrase raises an obvious question: What exactly was the conduct?

Ivey did not skip practice. He did not clash with teammates. He did not violate the law. By his own account — and by the absence of any evidence to the contrary

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

— he remained a good teammate and a committed player.

His o ense was speech.

On Instagram Live, Ivey pushed back on the decision.

“How is it conduct detrimental to the team? What did I do to the team?” he asked.

It’s a fair question — and one the Bulls have not clearly answered.

Even head coach Billy Donovan o ered only a muted response, emphasizing “certain standards” while declining to directly address Ivey’s comments. There was no forceful condemnation, no claim of locker room disruption — just a vague appeal to team values.

Contrast that with other professional sports leagues. UFC president Dana White has repeatedly defended ghters’ rights to speak freely, even when he strongly disagrees with them. The principle is simple: Disagreement does not justify punishment.

The NBA appears to be operating under a di erent standard.

If Ivey had expressed support for Pride Month — or made a personal announcement aligning with it — it’s di cult to imagine a similar outcome. More than likely, he would have been celebrated.

Instead, he was dismissed.

This is what makes the situation so striking. The league has tolerated, and at times quietly managed, far more serious controversies. There was even a prolonged debate over whether to host an event tied to a strip club in Atlanta — an issue that required league intervention after weeks of public scrutiny.

Yet a religious objection to Pride Month draws an immediate and decisive response.

That disparity is hard to ignore.

It also raises broader questions about the NBA’s relationship with its audience. Millions of fans — many of them religious — hold views similar to those Ivey expressed. They may not agree with the league’s messaging, but they have continued to watch, support and engage with the sport.

Decisions like this risk sending a di erent message: that certain beliefs are not merely unpopular but unacceptable.

For a league that seeks to expand its reach, that’s a curious strategy.

Timing only adds to the tension. The incident unfolded during Holy Week, one of the most sacred periods on the Christian calendar — a moment when questions of faith and conviction are especially prominent.

None of this requires agreement with Ivey’s views. Reasonable people can and do disagree on these issues.

But there is a di erence between disagreement and exclusion.

If the standard for remaining in the NBA now includes alignment with speci c cultural or ideological positions, then the league is entering new territory — one where speech, not conduct, becomes the deciding factor in a player’s career.

Ivey may yet nd another team willing to give him a second chance.

But the larger issue will remain: In today’s NBA, it’s not just how you play the game that matters — it’s what you’re allowed to say o the court.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co -founder of Daily Wire+. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

The sudden political star of Trump II: Marco Rubio

Rubio, in his two ostensibly nonpolitical jobs, has obviously made a favorable impression on the public.

“WHITE HOUSE DEPLOYS Marco

Rubio to clarify messaging about Iran con ict.” So reads the headline on the front page of the Washington Examiner’s website in the early hours of April 1, the third month of U.S. military operations against Iran, which have been taking place since Feb. 28.

That prominence was overtaken as it was announced that President Donald Trump would address the nation on the war Wednesday night. But it’s still worth noting and could turn out to be more signi cant as the end of the second Trump term comes into view.

Rubio’s video making the case for the Iran o ensive is only two minutes long, straight to the camera, with a dark background relieved only by the red and white stripes of the ag. Succinctly, he made a case for military action now.

“Under no circumstances,” Rubio said, “can a country run by radical Shia clerics with an apocalyptic vision of the future ever possess nuclear weapons, and under no circumstances can they be allowed to hide and protect that program and their ambitions behind a shield of missiles and drones that no one can do anything about.”

At greater length but in a similar fashion, he made the same case that day in a television interview on Al Jazeera, in terms pitched to its audience not just in the United States but also in the Gulf.

Only one other person before has held the o ces of secretary of state and national security adviser: Henry Kissinger, from 1973 to 1975. In that capacity, Kissinger conducted high-level diplomacy in the Middle East and left no distance in his public statements between his views and those of the president he served, although behind the scenes, as later revealed, there were di erences.

Similarly, Rubio obviously speaks carefully to leave no distance between his statements and those of the president he serves, to whom he refers in respectful terms. But he’s able to do this and to

appeal to others, including inveterate Trump haters, all at the same time.

That was apparent in his Feb. 14 speech at the Munich Security Conference where he earned standing applause from his predominantly European audience even as he repeated, diplomatically phrased, the same criticisms of what Donald Rumsfeld called “Old Europe” voiced numerous times by Trump and, at the same conference a year before, to a very di erent reaction, Vice President JD Vance.

There are many di erences between the two men who were secretary of state and national security adviser. Kissinger was a dazzling scholar who impressed everyone at Harvard University. Rubio rst went to college on a football scholarship then earned degrees from the University of Florida and the University of Miami Law School. Kissinger, in his prime, dated movie stars. Rubio is a longtime family man.

Once in America, Kissinger always lived in the Northeast Corridor (Manhattan, Cambridge and Washington, D.C.), Rubio in semitropical Miami and ra sh Las Vegas. Kissinger never ran for public o ce. Rubio was elected to the West Miami Council at 27 and to the term-limited Florida legislature at 29 (winning a primary runo by 64 votes), and he got his colleagues to elect him as speaker six years later.

But the biggest political di erence is that Kissinger, born a citizen of Weimar Germany, was ineligible to run for president. Rubio not only ran for president in 2016 but might conceivably have won in the absence of Trump’s candidacy and the millions spent against him by backers of his former mentor, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush.

And Rubio might conceivably run and win in 2028, though he says he will support Vance, and Vance says that Rubio is “my closest friend in the administration.” There are obviously some di erences between them on foreign policy: Rubio

plainly favors the Iran attacks. Vance seems dubious.

Despite speculation that MAGA opposes Trump on Iran, Rubio, in his two ostensibly nonpolitical jobs, has obviously made a favorable impression on the public. At the recent Conservative Political Action Conference in Grapevine, Texas, Vance once again won the straw poll for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination. But his 53% was down from 61% last year, while Rubio zoomed up from 3% in 2025 to 35% this year.

CPAC, abounding these days with MAGA-loving young men, has not always been a reliable guide to wider opinion.

But national pollsters, which began 2028 polling two weeks after the 2024 election, cast a wider net. In 17 polls conducted over the rst full year since Trump’s inauguration, Rubio averaged 9%, behind not only Vance at 46% but also his fellow Floridian, Gov. Ron DeSantis, who averaged 10%.

In seven polls taken since Rubio’s Munich speech, Vance was unchanged, averaging 45%, and so was DeSantis, who averaged 8%. But Rubio did signi cantly better, averaging 16%. That’s not the jump he saw at CPAC, but it’s also pretty clear evidence that Rubio is making some impression on a public that usually pays little attention to secretaries of state or national security advisers.

But I do feel sure that Rubio, who showed impressive raw political talent in his rise to one of Florida’s U.S. Senate seats in the rst decade of this century and who made a serious presidential run in the second decade, has now shown impressive skills as a national leader in the third decade. Is there more ahead in the fourth?

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner and longtime co-author of “The Almanac of American Politics.”

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Springtime fun at Warsaw Easter Egg Hunt

KNOWLES from page A1

Gwenda Swann retired after 25 years with Social Services, working in economic services and as a public information o cer; she received both a county retirement plaque and the Old North State Award from the governor.

Wallace Council Member Glenn Price presented information on rapid residential growth in Wallace, noting more than 1,000 potential homes and expanding commercial development. Price said growth re ects a strong economy and regional job opportunities but emphasized that early planning with county o cials is needed to meet future enrollment and infrastructure demands.

“We have a duty as a council to make sure that the board is aware of what’s going on in Wallace and the magnitude of growth that we expect to see,” said Price. County o cials also reported on a $1.5 million river and creek cleanup initiative funded through 2028 by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. According to David Whaley, soil & water director, the cleanup has improved ow along the Northeast Cape Fear River and tributaries. Despite progress, some areas still require attention. Muddy Creek, particularly between Lyman Road and Quinn Store Road, was identi ed as a major problem area. Additionally, Little Limestone Creek near Church Road was highlighted as severely obstructed. Plans include revisiting these locations if funding allows, along with continued maintenance of previously improved creeks. O cials said remaining funds will continue upstream cleanup and support smaller streams.

In other business:

The board approved purchasing ve replacement vehicles due to high mileage and maintenance costs on existing units.

Holland Construction Company was awarded contracts to rebuild homes at 186 Willie Best Road and 455 Carter Thigpen Road under the 2024 Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery program. Economic development initiatives: A $661,151 contract was awarded to RiverWild Commercial LLC to build ve short-term housing units for workforce and visitors. The county also approved a third industrial shell building with Daniels and Daniels Construction Company and $354,693 for new signage across multiple industrial parks to improve visibility and branding.

O cials said these e orts aim to expand opportunities, attract businesses, and build on recent economic momentum.

The board approved three modernized, stand-alone pol-

icies governing Purchasing Cards (P-Cards), Con ict of Interest and Ethics, and Purchasing and Procurement. These updates were designed to strengthen internal controls, promote transparency, and ensure compliance with state and federal statutes.

Three 12,000-gallon fuel tanks at the county airport were declared surplus and the board approved selling them privately for $10,000. Some commissioners expressed concern that $10,000 for three large-capacity tanks seemed low. Comparisons were made to the high cost of new tanks, estimated around $500,000, as well as the total storage capacity being sold.

A key discussion point was whether the county should publicly advertise the tanks to potentially receive higher bids. While advertising could increase competition, sta noted it would also extend the timeline and create logistical challenges, including the need to move and store the tanks during the bidding process. The sale is closely tied to the construction timeline of a new fuel farm project. The buyer has agreed to coordinate tank removal with the project schedule, eliminating the need for temporary storage or additional equipment. O cials stressed that this coordination is a major advantage of proceeding with the private sale.

After weighing the options, o cials concluded that the guaranteed sale, combined with avoided costs and simpli ed logistics, made this the most practical decision.

Interim County Manager Lisa Hughes outlined 2026–27 budget priorities. She emphasized employees, economic development, schools, and community college as top concerns. The general fund budget is currently just over $81 million, with approximately 51.5% dedicated to personnel costs.

Hughes highlighted a keynancial goal is reducing the county’s dependence on its $7.8 million fund balance to cover recurring expenses. She also noted that around $1.5 million is tied to one-time capital expenses. Hughes aims to signi cantly reduce this reliance in the next budget cycle. To achieve that goal, county leadership will work with department heads to identify ways to cut or better manage recurring operational costs. This includes reviewing departmental budgets, identifying e ciencies, and potentially scaling back expenditures. The e ort is focused speci cally on the general fund, where most operational spending occurs.

“My pledge to you and the citizens of this county is to bring you a budget that does not include any hint of any tax rate increase,” said Hughes.

CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

First weekend in May In Historic Downtown Wallace

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina April 18th, 1–6pm

DUPLIN SPORTS

Fayetteville State back eld bext stop for Tigers’ Hall

James Kenan head coach

Tim Grady said Jeremiah Hall

“changed the culture”

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Jeremiah Hall leaves James Kenan as one of the school’s most consummate team players.

“He’s the picture of what labor, effort and determination can do,” said football coach Tim Grady. “I’ll say this, when we lined all the freshmen up back then, he wasn’t the one anyone would pick as our guy moving to the next level.”

Hall is now as he signed a letter of intent to play football at Fayetteville State next fall.

“None of our players can ever say

he took a day o or a rep o ,” Grady said. “And he never got junk yards, willing to grind it out against the tall trees, Wallace-Rose Hill and East Duplin. He changed the culture here.”

Hall was the top running back on consecutive 12-2 seasons, going for 2,060 yards and 27 touchdowns last fall and 1,150 yards and 13 scores in 2024.

His best friend in Tigers land is two-way lineman Cal Avent, another key to the team’s return to glory.

“I’m with him all the time,” said Avent, who also works with Hall at the Clifton Seed Company. “He’s a good as it gets. The work ethic. How respectful he is. We’re brothers. I play basketball for him, and he plays baseball for me. I’m not much of a basketball player, and he’s

playing baseball as a pinch runner.”

“They’re together 24-7,” said Avent’s twin brother, Eli, who plays quarterback in the fall, basketball and baseball. “He’s got that ght-to -the-end thing. And he’s a grinder in the weight room.”

And decent in the classroom as well.

“He’s over 4.0 and broke two single-season school records (11.3 yards per carry and 29 touchdowns),” Grady said. “But even as important is that he is such a team player. In all my years I’ve not coached a ner young man. I never heard him yell, ‘Give me the ball.’”

While Hall was without a doubt “the man” in the Tigers’ back eld, he was every teammate’s friend on the

Shylah Sloan, Jourdan Joe and Ava Jones provide spark as JK ended nine-game skid against WRH

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Shylah Sloan wanted to make amends to her teammates for her pitching performance against East Duplin that ended with a 10-0 loss.

The James Kenan senior scattered ve hits and then put the nishing touches on an 8-2 win over Wallace-Rose Hill with a two-run homer in a battle for second place behind Midway in the Swine Valley Conference.

“She was so frustrated about East Duplin and apologized to her teammates,” said Tigers coach Brian Casteen. “She’s pitched in some big games and had a great season, and tonight may have been her best in the circle.”

The win snapped a nine-game drought against the Bulldogs. JK’s last win came in ’21, and WRH has had a 25-2 edge in the rivalry since 2012.

“Shylah is one of our three seniors (along with Jourdan Joe and Ava Jones) who had never beaten Wallace,” said Casteen, JK’s rst-year coach. “I’m very happy with for them, and this was a great win because we beat a very good pitcher (Payton Tyndall).”

JK (9-2, 6-1) trailed 1-0 until going in front 3-1 in the fourth. The ve-run outburst in the

JK’s Aleyah Wilson’s 18 goals are the most in Duplin County.

JK moved into sole possession of rst place in the Swine Valley Conference

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — The di erence

between Wallace-Rose Hill and James Kenan on the soccer eld came down to the energized play of Aleyah Wilson.

Keeping track of her for 80 minutes proved impossible, but the Bulldogs held strong until late in a scoreless match.

With 12 minutes to play, the junior kicked a ball just past

the WRH goalie, retrieving it and then scoring from close range.

“We had our chances,” said WRH rst-year coach Dennis Ly. “It went back and forth, and we made a little mistake and she made us pay.

Wilson second score came o a steal.

“It was a heck of a shot,” Ly said. “That girl was tough to handle, and we had to go to a box-and-one on her.”

A long pass from Yaneidi Cruz set up the rst goal.

“We controlled a lot of the game, but in soccer you have to put it in the back of the net,” said JK coach Kenny Williams.

Williams said having the wind at the Tigers’ backs in the second half was key.

“The wind kind of took it out of them,” he said. “Any win in a rivalry game is big, even if it’s 1-0. You can throw out the record books and style di erences. These two teams are going to give you all they have.

Williams said Cruz, who has six goals and 10 assists, is engineering the Tigers’ o ensive attack.

“She’s able to get possession and control the ball to get us into the attack mode,” he said. “She’s become, to use a football

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Makenzie Jackson

Harrells Christian Academy, softball

Makenzie Jackson is an o ensive spark plug and so much more for Harrells Christian Academy.

The freshman in elder is fourth in the area in hitting (.556) while leading the Crusaders in runs (18), on-base percentage (.619), slugging (.788) and OPS (1.397).

Yet she’s no stranger to prime time.

Jackson hit .419 and .426 as a seventh and eighth grader, respectively, on the HCA varsity squad, and she’s made just six errors to date.

She laced four hits as a high-water mark this season and four times had three hits. She’s had either a hit or scored a run in all but three games this spring.

HCA is 5-7 and looking for a spot in the NCISAA’s 2A playo s.

Panthers, Rebels softball capture signi cant wins before Easter break

Sophia Jones and a 10-hit attack help ED down 7A Topsail, while Marissa Bernal and Gracie Higginbotham sparked the Rebels to a revenge win over East Columbus

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

HAMPSTEAD — East Duplin scored runs in the rst four innings and rode the pitching of Sophia Jones to beat 7A Topsail 5-2.

Zoe Turner singled, doubled, tripled, scored and drove in a run.

Ava Noble, Karsyn Parker and Jones each had two hits and knocked in a run.

Jones, a sophomore right-hander, scattered ve hits and two runs for her fourth circle win.

She struck out three, giving up a homer, though not walking any Pirates. ED made just one error while scoring twice in the rst and notching single runs in the next three frames.

Emma Rose smacked a solo homer and Mae Rimel a run-scoring double for Topsail (12-5).

Later in the day, freshman Ansley Hunter lashed three of the Panthers’ four hits during a 9-1 loss to 7A D.H. Conley (12-0).

Noble singled in the lone ED run in the third inning. But at that point, the Vikings were in front 5-1.

Thirteen hits and a three -run fth sealed the verdict for D.H. Conley, which recently vaulted to No. 1 in the state among all classications. Five Vikings recently signed to play college softball.

ED (11-2, 3-1) is o until hosting ECC rival Clinton (1-10, 0-4) on April 14.

Head coach Greg Jenkins’ gang will face unbeaten Pender (11-0, 4-0) and South Lenoir (9-5, 3-1) in pivotal two-game league series the nal two weeks of the month.

SOCCER from page B1

analogy, our quarterback on the eld.’

Defensively, sweeper Allison Duenas is running the show.

“She keeps the back end clean, while Gabi (Outlaw) is learning in the goal,” Williams said.

“We’re just more con dent with her, and she keeps things away from the goal area.”

JK (8-3, 6-1) and WRH (5 - 6, 4-2) will have a rematch April 30 in Teachey.

“I’m sure they’ll have something for us,” Williams said. “It’s going to be tough to play there.”

Wilson had a hat trick during a 5-0 conquest of Spring Creek later in the week. She had 19 scores this spring.

Noilin Rodriguez and Josselyn Gomez added scores, and Angie Irula had two assists.

JK travels to face Southwest Onslow in its lone game this week. Weather permitting,

Rebels rally from 3-0 de cit to top Gators

North Duplin, which also scored a big win over Topsail earlier this spring, got a somewhat more important 5-3 win over East Columbus, avenging the Gators’ 14-2 March 10 win in Lake Waccamaw. The Rebels cut the lead to 3-2 in the third and scored single runs in each of the next three frames.

Gracie Higginbotham threw three innings of hitless ball while adding a single, triple and drove in a run.

Marissa Bernal added a two-run homer, while Ady Spence and Kaydynce Locklear added an RBI single and double, respectively.

Sara Coleman hit a three-run

the Tigers have a three-match week following spring break. WRH isn’t slated to play for seven days (April 14).

Do Panthers have mojo back?

Don’t look at East Duplin’s record (7-6, 3-1). Watch the Panthers play before making a scouting report.

Head coach Joey Jones might now be able to see that his team is capable of making a late-season rush.

Anamarie Rodriguez scored three goals last week during a 3-1 win over Charles B. Aycock in Pikeville.

She gave ED a 1-0 halftime lead as the Panthers beat the 5A Golden Falcons (5-5) for the second time this season and fourth win in a row to set up an ECC showdown April 14 with Clinton (10-3 -1, 4-0).

ED also avenged an earlier loss by stumping North Brunswick 3-1.

shot for the Gators (10-4, 6-1).

MacKenzie Clemmons added a pair of doubles.

Only one of ND’s last seven opponents (Pender) has a winning record.

The Rebels’ RPI is No. 5 in 2A among all schools and No. 2 to Roxbury Community (8-2) in the East.

A day earlier, Lilly Fulghum homered twice to knock in ve runs as ND routed Lakewood 14-0 in a three-inning a air as the Rebels posted nine runs on the board in the opening inning.

Abigeal Norris also went yard for a grand slam, and Higginbotham legged out a triple and single in two plate appearances. Spence picked up her rst win of the season in the circle.

The Panthers face quality competition in theirnal next nine matches as they have all season, facing unbeaten Pender and Swine Valley leader Princeton (11-1-2) twice. And when the playo s begin May 8, the Panthers could be a team no one wants to face early in the 4A bracket.

Stemmler, Orozco log hat tricks in Rebels’ win

Tristen Stemmler and Roslin Orozco each had a hat trick, and Ivet Campos added another score as North Duplin downed Lakewood 7-0 in a Carolina Conference match in Calypso.

It was the fourth consecutive win for the second-place Rebels (7-1, 5-1), who trail CC frontrunner Hobbton (8-4, 6-1) by a game. The Wildcats fell to ND 3-0 on March 19. ND hosts third-place Union (8-3, 5-2) when it returns from spring break.

sixth featured Sloan’s shot to left-center and RBI hits by Joe, Jones and Kinzley Sloan.

“Payton is an excellent pitcher, and we made her work in the hopes of wearing her down a little,” Casteen said.

Sloan (4-2) struck out six and allowed just one walk with her 79-pitch complete game in lowering her ERA to 1.95. WRH (5-7, 4-2) hit .214 against her.

She set the side down in order in the rst and fth, and the Tigers ended the sixth and seventh innings with double plays.

WRH’s Keyonn Thomas punched a run-scoring single that plated Maggie Boone for the rst run of the game. Sadie Casteen knocked in two in the home half of the fourth and scored on a throwing error by the Bulldogs’ catcher.

JK left the bases loaded to end the fth. The bottom of

the order started the rush in the sixth as Jovie Hall walked and Landyn Boone singled.

Later in the week, Casteen and Kenadi Gideons each drove in three runs and Kinzley Sloan two during a 18-1 rout of Spring Creek.

JK whacked 12 hits and had 13 credited RBIs, eight walks and 16 stolen bases.

The Tigers travel to 4A Southwest Onslow (4-6) as their lone game this week. They face SWO again after hooking up against Rosewood (7-4, 4-3) and nish o a tough four-game stretch by host Midway (12-0, 7-0).

“It’s our biggest week of the year,” Casteen said, whose club fell to the Raiders 9-8 on March 18.

JK and WRH collide on April 30 in Teachey in the regular season nale for both schools.

The Bulldogs have a more favorable slate leading up to the

rematch. WRH has beaten ve of its next ve foes — Northside-Jacksonville, Goldsboro, Princeton, Rosewood, Spring Creek of its next six foes leading up to the rematch. Crusaders drop pair of heartbreakers

Breelyn Peed had three hits and scored twice and Mackenzie Jackson had two hits and touched home plate twice, but Harrell Christian Academy fell 5-4 to Rocky Mount Academy, which score twice in the seventh for the comeback win.

Two days later, the Eagles rallied for four runs in the sixth for a 4-2 triumph.

HCA (5-7) went up 1-0 in the third and 2-0 in the top of the sixth.

Peed and Savannah Stevens punched the lone Crusader hits. It was the fth nail-biting loss this spring for HCA.

BASEBALL STATS

doubles, 11 runs, 6 RBIs

Garrett Stevens (ND) .393 12 RBIs

Hayes Lanier (ED) .360 9 RBIs

Cooper Torrence (Rich) .355 6 RBIs

Luke Jackson (WRH) .343 3 doubles, 1 triple, 13 RBIs

Jack Tuck (ED) .314 12 runs, 9 RBIs

Noa Quintanilla (ND) .308 7 RBIs

Will Brooks (WRH) .294 2 doubles, 6 RBIs

Luke Hall (ED) .286 3 doubles, 7 RBIs

Paxton Smith (JK) .310 1 double, 6 runs

Ben Kelly (ND) .308 5 RBIs

Luke Weeks (HCA) .290 5 doubles, 8 RBIs

basketball court where he lled all the boxes — 6.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 4.6 steals for 18-6 JK.

Fayetteville State, a Division II program, went 6-4 last fall.

Four Broncos — Caden Davis, Shawn Robinson, Matthew Leach and Kahilil Ashley-Diarrah — were selected to compete in the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl, a premier postseason all-star showcase featuring the nation’s top NFL draft-eligible players from historically black colleges and universities. Twelve players earned all-CIAA postseason honors following a 6-1 conference mark in the 11-school league.

Avent and all my brothers for pushing me hard,” Hall said.

Grady said Hall was paramount to JK’s state playo runs.

“I want to thank coach Grady and Coach John (Bert)

“We don’t get to the fourth round or region nal or win the Swine Valley Conference without him,” he said. “He became a mighty tree, but it all started with his fertile foundation soil.”

NHL Islanders re coach Roy after losing 4 straight, name DeBoer as replacement

New York

Patrick Roy was red Sunday as coach of the New York Islanders. First-year general manager Mathieu Darche announced the decision after the team lost four in a row and seven of its past 10 games. The Islanders were comfortably in a playo spot until their late-season tailspin put their chances in danger with four games left to play. Peter DeBoer was named as Roy’s replacement and not just on an interim basis. He has taken two teams to the Stanley Cup nal and most recently coached the Dallas Stars.

NBA Rivers, Few, Parker set for Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinement

Phoenix Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, Chamique Holdsclaw and the 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team will be enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The class was unveiled at halftime of the UConnSouth Carolina game during the women’s Final Four. Also included were Amar’e Stoudemire and Mike D’Antoni. They will be joined by longtime NBA o cial Joey Crawford, NBA coach Doc Rivers and Gonzaga coach Mark Few. The enshrinement ceremony will take place in August at the Hall of Fame in Spring eld, Massachusetts.

Davis Rogers (HCA) .280 6 RBIs

Colten Holmes (ED) .259 8 runs

Peyton Gomez (HCA) .257 2 doubles, 12 runs

Reid Strickland (HCA) .241 8 RBIs

SOFTBALL STATS

Ava Noble (ED) .609 6 doubles, 5 triples, 2 HRs, 18 RBIs Lilly Fulghum (ND) .591 5 doubles, triple, 2 HRs, 15 RBIs Gracie Higginbotham (ND) .591 3 doubles, 4 triples, 15 runs, 9 RBIs

Carmen Cubas (Rich) .562 10 runs

Makenzie Jackson (HCA) .556 4 extra-base hits, 18 runs

Kendai Gideons (JK) .553 7 doubles, 2 triples, 17 RBIs Kinzley Sloan (JK) .535 8

(JK) .444 2 doubles, 9 RBIs

Scarlett Deluca

.303 9 RBIs

Leighton Davis (ED) .279 9 doubles, 7 RBIs

Sadie Casteen (JK) .448 3 doubles, 13 RBIs

Sophia Jones (ED) .500 6 doubles, 2 triples, 17 RBIs

Jourdan Joe (JK) .500 6 doubles, 1 triple, HR, 13 RBIs

Jansley Page (WRH) .431 11 runs

Maggie Boone (WRH) .455 3 doubles, triple, 13 runs

Shylah Sloan (JK) .412 6 doubles, triple, 3 HRs, 20 runs, 17 RBIs

Wyllow Holmes (ND) .407 15 runs

Lorena Rodrigues (ED) .351

Karsyn Parker (ED) .312 14 runs

Marissa Bernal (ND) .308 3 doubles, 3 triples, 11 runs, 7 RBIs

Landry Singletary (HCA) .303 9 RBIs

Sophie Sloan (WRH) .286

NFL

Rams’ Nacua went to rehab before being sued for assault, battery by woman

Los Angeles Los Angeles Rams All-Pro wide receiver

Puka Nacua was in rehab before he was sued for assault and battery by a woman who says he made an antisemitic statement and bit her on the shoulder. Nacua issued an apology last December after performing a gesture that plays upon antisemitic tropes while appearing on an internet livestream. Nacua has been one of the most productive receivers in NFL history over his rst three seasons with the Rams, who drafted him in the fth round out of BYU in 2023.

NBA

Mavs rookie Flagg scores 51 points, becomes rst teen to reach 50 in NBA game

Dallas Cooper Flagg scored 51 points last Friday to become the rst teenager to reach the 50-point mark in an NBA game. The rookie No. 1 pick of the Dallas Mavericks scored 24 points in the fourth quarter of a 138-127 loss to the Orlando Magic. Flagg’s fourth-quarter urry came after coach Jason Kidd and teammate Naji Marshall were ejected over what they thought was a no - call when Flagg was fouled by Desmond Bane. Flagg’s previous career high was 49.

Rebels, Tigers look for strong second-half surges

ND had three wins before Easter, while JK won consecutive games for the rst time this spring

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — North Duplin baseball coach Brad Rhodes thinks his Rebels can make a run in the second half of the season.

ND, which won two of its rst ve to start the season, has since won three Carolina Conference games in a row before this spring break.

“We got o to a bumpy start but have had some really good weeks of practice, and I felt like we’ve turned the corner,” said Rhodes, a longtime football assistant and rst-year baseball coach. “We’re de nitely playing a better brand of baseball. Outside of the Rosewood game (a 10-1 loss on opening day to the 12-2 Eagles) we’ve played pretty well but were a break or two away from winning. We’re playing tough-nosed baseball and creating our own luck.”

The Rebels (5-4, 4-3) scored three times in the sixth inning last week to rally past East Columbus 8-6 in Calypso, which was sweet revenge after falling to the Gators 14-13 in eight innings on March 10 in Lake Waccamaw.

Garris Warren singled, doubled twice, drove in two runs and scored. He also threw 32⁄3 innings before being relieved Ben Kelly for 21⁄3 frames. Hayden Miller pitched a hitless seventh.

Cole Grady had a pair of hits and drove in two. Garrett Stevens, Noa Quintanilla and Henry Pope both drove in a run and scored a run.

ND’s three runs in the sixth broke a 5-5 deadlock.

There was far more breathing room during an 11-5 win over Lakewood in which Noah Price had an outstanding 101-pitch performance.

The sophomore scattered seven hits, a walk and four strikeouts over 61⁄3 innings. Miller secured the nal two outs.

Price and Grady each lashed a pair of hits and combined to drive in three runs.

Pope and Stevens added run-scoring hits.

ND stumped West Columbus 11-0 to start its winning streak.

“That’s the game I felt we were moving forward and not looking back in the mirror,” Rhodes said.

“We got back on track against Lakewood and beat East Columbus after one got away from us the rst time.”

Rhodes said the Rebels pitching sta has many arms, including starters Warren, Price, Ben Kelly and Holden Williams, who recently returned to the lineup.

Miller’s worked mostly in relief so far.

“Holden’s been battling some discomfort, and I think we’ll have him back and ready when we return,” Rhodes said.

ND has six games left on its schedule and each is important.

The Rebels entered this week as the No. 24 RPI team in the state in 2A play.

Tigers beat ’Dawgs for rst time since 2023

Hunter Grady tripled in three runs in the sixth as James Kenan beat Wallace-Rose Hill 6-3, its rst win over the Bulldogs since 2023.

WRH has a 27-5 advantage in the rivalry series since 2008.

Tripp Phipps, Paxton Smith and Hunter Whitman reached base to set up Grady for a hit into the gap.

Luke Jackson and Hayden Lovette knocked in two of WRH’s three early runs as the Bulldogs went up 3-0 in the third.

But hits by Eli Avent and Hansley McGee and a run-scoring singles by Cal Avent and Smith and an RBI ground out by Brantley Pike tied it at 3-3.

Both schools followed the game with wins. It was rst two-game winning streak of the season of JK, who blasted Spring Creek 20 -7.

WRH destroyed Wayne Prep Academy 13-2.

Will Brooks had three hits in four at-bats, driving in two runs.

Christian Smith was 3 of 4 and Jacob Davis 2 of 3 with two RBIs.

Lovette’s 84 pitches earned him the win. He yielded one hit,

while whi ng nine and walking one.

Marshburn extends hitting streak to 10 games

East Duplin catcher Sawyer Marshburn’s hitting streak has reached 10 games.

That’s the most positive news out of the Panther camp last week as ED lost to North Johnston (6-1) and Rosewood (13-3) at the Pittman Agner Easter Tournament at Grainger Stadium in Kinston.

The senior, who is hitting .467, has 21 hits during his streak.

He ripped a single against North Johnston and had two hits against the Eagles.

During the streak he lashed ve hits against WRH and three in two separate outings against Trask.

ED’s lone run against North Johnston came in the sixth when Brayden Jones singled and scored on a Gavin Holmes at-bat. Holmes leads the Panthers in hitting (.516).

Reid Willoughby had three hits for the winners and struck out nine Panthers on the hill.

Colton Holmes and Hayes Lanier knocked in runs against Rosewood.

ED (7-4) plays two games during the Easter break before having a week o . The Panthers host Clinton (7-5) on April 14.

Crusaders rally for win, fall to Eagles in 10 innings

Avery Hall had three hits in three plate appearances, and Drake Smith knocked in three runs to lead Harrells Christian Academy to a 9-7 win over Rocky Mount.

Peyton Gomez and Davis Rogers added run-scoring hits. HCA rallied from a 6-1 de cit, scoring three times in the third and sixth innings and two in the fth.

The Eagles (4-5) scored an 8-7 walk-o win in 10 innings two days later.

The Crusaders (7-4) led 7-5 in the eighth, but Rocky Mount scored the nal three runs.

Drake Smith had four hits and Luke Weeks and Rogers two apiece.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

A total of 27 marriage licenses were issued by Duplin County Register of Deeds Anita Marie Savage for the month ending March 31, according to o cial records.

The couples receiving marriage licenses include:

• Wilson Ivan Rodriguez Torres of Seven Springs and Jasmin Reyes Cruz of Seven Springs

Allison Grace Higgins of Wallace and Caleb Dakota Levan of Wallace

• Ti any Michelle Williams of Faison and Allen Ray Thompson of Faison

• Jamie Medardo Sanchez Velasquez of Teachey and Ixi Johana Mancia Serrano of Teachey

Valentina Espinoza of Wallace and Karon Montre Williams of Warsaw

• Devian Anthony Taylor of Wallace and Riley Bree Reynolds of Oregon

Sarah Pearl Farrior of Wallace and William Chase Cavenaugh of Wallace

• Kylie Layne Minton Norris of Beulaville and Steven Sauceda of Beulaville

• Robert Deante’ Hicks of Warsaw and Shaketia Laverne Sellers of Warsaw Valeria Palomo Rios of Faison and Matthew Dylan Casper of Grantsboro

• Michael William Martin Jr. of Pink Hill and Jessica Houston Maready of Albertson

• Jeison Pabel Diaz Aguilar of Clinton and Keila Patricia Herrera Meza of Clinton Zechariah Ezekiel Schroeder of Kenansville and Yuridbia

M. Santibanez Garcia of Magnolia

Alayna Faith Drinkwater of Beulaville and Tyler Buck Pierce of Beulaville

• Cornelius Antonio Glaspie of Turkey and Brittney Nicole McClamb of Turkey

• Hayley Mia Jones of Faison and Bobby Brooks Tucker of Faison

Malinda Grace Houston of Albertson and Jonathan Richard Williams Jr. of Albertson

• Eufemia Miranda Jaimes of Mount Olive and Benito Yanez Perez of Mount Olive

Dyshaun Laquan Tolson of Wallace and Ruth Ellen Vonnee Garcia of Wallace

• William Patrick Naas Lyon of Hampstead and Kendra Leight Sholar of Hampstead

• Victor Rojas Ramirez of Turkey and Kacey Cheyenne Moxley of Pink Hill

Lynn Jones Letchworth of Stantonsburg and Jason Lavon Stevens of Stantonsburg

• Corey Levon Pigford of Beulaville and Jessica Denise Walters Alexander of Beulaville

Allicia Marie McCracken of Trenton and Mickey Shaun Hunter of Trenton

• Jose David Yanez Fernandez of Teachey and Gelen Patricia Meraz Hernandez of Teachey

• Travis Ree Barksdale of Rose Hill and Sandi McArthur Bryant of Rose Hill

Kimberly Hope Radford of Pink Hill and Jared Scott Hill of Pink Hill

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#26E000120-300

TOWN OF TEACHEY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

FOR CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTING TOWN HOME ORDINANCE AND APPROVING TOWN HOME OVERLAY ZONE

The public will take notice that the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Teachey has called a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on April 13, 2026 at the Town Hall for the purpose of considering to adopt the Town Home Ordinance and approving a Town Home Overlay Zone of Parcel #09-5554-, Book 2110 Pg 1-2. Also known as: Located in Island Creek Township, Duplin County, North Carolina.

Being all of Tract B containing 9.770 acres as shown on map entitled “Type A Expedited Minor Subdivision for Relentless Ventures, LLC of Duplin County Parcel # 09-5554” recorded in Map Book 36 Page 366 of the Duplin County Registry. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter you can contact The Teachey Town Hall by phone 910-285-7564 or by mail at P.O. Box 145 Teachey NC 28464.

Morgan Jacobs – Town Clerk Town of Teachey, N.C.

NOTICE

pm

The Board expects to adjourn on May 21, 2026. In the event of earlier or later adjournment, notice to that e ect will be published in this newspaper. Gary M. Rose Clerk to the Board of E&R

obituaries

Deborah Lynn Mobley

Nov. 19, 1971 –March 27, 2026

Deborah Lynn Mobley, age 54, of Willard, left this earthly life after a long battle with cancer on Friday, March 27, 2026, and is now in the arms of her loving Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born on November 19, 1971, in Pender County, the daughter of Faye Sholar Mobley of Wallace and the late Larry Mobley.

Deborah graduated from high school and continued her education at Appalachian State University, where she earned 2 Batchlor degrees and a Master’s degree. Later, she and Patrick started what she loved most, an entertainment business that reached out to children and teens through games and activities. She and Patrick faithfully attended Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church as her health permitted.

Deborah, in addition to her mother, is survived by her best friend and husband of 20 years, Patrick Pistner; her sister Beverely Mott and husband Gregg of Harrells; brother Larry Mobley and wife Tammy of Lafayette, Louisiana; niece Kristen Mott; nephews Austin Mott and Adrian Mott; numerous extended family and friends who loved Deborah and were loved in return. Deborah was a devoted wife and caring daughter, sister. She was a simple lady who enjoyed the simple things in life. Deborah was an entertainer. She served many years as counselor at youth camps where she would help children and teens learn about Jesus thru games and fun activities. She traveled to eight di erent countries hiring internationals to come work as camp counselors. She acquired many friends from all over the world that are special to her to this day. Deborah loved children of all ages. Her touch and example demonstrated her love no matter where she was. Deborah was a mentor, con dant, counselor and friend to so many people. She loved Patrick with every ber of her being. They had a very special relationship based on Biblical principles. As one, they did everything together, including her entertainment business. Deborah was a ghter. She fought hard during her journey with cancer and never gave up. She would entertain children and adults with games and activities even when she was not physically up to it. She loved going on road trips and many times would push herself to go when she was not feeling well. Again, Deborah was a ghter. Beautiful inside and out, she was always loving, compassionate and very devoted to Jesus and His work. She was loved so much by so many and will surely be missed. Her legacy will continue to live on because of her love for Jesus through the 100’s and 100’s of lives she touched all around the world. Deborah was truly a gift from God.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church with her brotherin-law, Reverend Gregg Mott, o ciating.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to noon, one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will follow the service at Mobley Cemetery on Rivenbark Town Road, Wallace, NC.

In lieu of owers, the family asks that donations be made to Falcon Youth Camp, PO Box 59. Falcon, NC 28642.

Robert Obenour

Sept. 2, 1944 –March 30, 2026

Robert J. Obenour, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 30, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Robert carried his roots with pride throughout his life, remaining a loyal and passionate Steelers fan to the very end. His early years were marked by both hardship and resilience, having lost his father at a young age—a loss that helped shape the grit, independence, and strength of character that de ned him.

Robert was married for 60 years to the love of his life and best friend, Dorothy Obenour. Together, they built a life centered on devotion, partnership, and shared adventure. His career in sales took them across the country and around the world through achievement clubs, creating lasting memories and experiences they treasured deeply.

He was the proud father of three daughters: Laura (Randy) Davis, Amy and Gail, whom he loved ercely and supported wholeheartedly.

Robert also found great joy in his grandchildren, Cole Davis and Audrie Davis, who brought him immense pride and happiness.

Known for his warm smile, unmistakable determination, and willingness to help in any situation, Robert was a man who spoke his mind and stood his ground. Beneath that tough exterior, however, was a deep well of loyalty, humor, and care for those he loved.

Robert found peace and satisfaction in the simple, meaningful rhythms of life. He loved birds, owers, and maintaining a beautiful yard, taking pride in every home he and Dorothy shared—each one marked by a workbench he built with his own hands. He also had a special fondness for his three Labrador retrievers over the years.

A man of many interests, Robert was a good golfer, an avid reader, a skilled card player, a sharp and intuitive picker of winning NFL teams, and an enthusiastic participant in family vacations. He dedicated his time to coaching his daughters in softball and leading them in Indian Princesses, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and the lives of others.

In his retirement years, Robert also gave back to his community through volunteer work with the Duplin County Department of Social Services and Novant Hospital, quietly o ering his time and energy in service to others.

He will be remembered for his strength, his steadfast love for his family, his enduring partnership with Dorothy, and the legacy of resilience and devotion he leaves behind. Robert’s life was one of determination, loyalty, and deep connection—a life well lived and one that will be remembered and cherished.

Sandra “Sandee” Smith DiDomenico

Dec. 23, 1939 – April 1, 2026

Sandra “Sandee” Smith

DiDomenico of Wallace, NC, passed from her earthly life on Wednesday evening, April 1, 2026, peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends.

Born in the Bronx, NY, on December 23, 1939, she is the daughter of the late George Grady Smith Jr. from Black Creek, NC, and Edith Joan Thompson Smith. Also preceding her death are siblings Carol Donato, George Smith and John Smith.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Louis Michael DiDomenico; children, Sandra (spouse Bonnie) from Delray Beach, FL, Andrew (spouse Sirimanas) from Little Ferry, NJ, and Mark (spouse Beth, Grandson Thomas) from Elmont, NY. Siblings, Robert Smith (brother) of Monroe Township, NJ & (sister) Emily of Piscataway, Nj with her two cats Romeo and Leo.

Sandee’s Love of life didn’t end with her love for family. In her early years she attended PS 61 and PS 64 in the East Village of Manhattan aka, Alphabet City aspiring to be an actress and singer with quite a voice. By the time she hit 15 -16 she was a pin-up girl making all the boys swoon and was already working at Birdland Jazz Club in Midtown as a hat check girl while her sister Carol sold cigarettes.

Sandee loved her books, and reading was her favorite pastime, along with watching her TMC classic movies, listening to 50s jazz & also country music. Attending Broadway shows and ne Italian restaurants were her go to things to do. She was also quite the shopper, always looking for a good deal with antiques fueling that passion.

Her Love for books led her to a career as a Senior Library Clerk in Mineola and Garden City, Long Island. She loved to help people nd the information they were looking for and was a master at doing so, no matter the subject.

Some of her favorite things were Animals, especially Pigs, Kaleidoscopes, Butter y’s, Travel, Baking, Cross Stitching and doll collecting. She embraced her southern heritage and will be remembered as one of the Kindest, Warmest, Bravest and Generous women to all who knew her. Although she sometimes ran out of patience, exclaiming, “This Is Ridiculous!” she made those around her laugh uncontrollably.

Until we meet again, may God bless you always, and may the happiness of being with your parents transcend to all of us, as we remember the incredible person you were and always will be.

The family will greet friends at a wake on Monday, April 6, 2026, 4-8 p.m. at Padgett Funeral Home. Services will be on Tuesday, April 7, at 11 a.m. in the Wallace Presbyterian Church. In lieu of owers, please consider a contribution to Farm Sanctuary farmsanctuary.org/honor-andmemory.

CDR William “Bill” Ivey Taylor III, USN (Ret.)

June 6, 1942 – April 3, 2026

CDR William Ivey Taylor III, USN (Ret.), age 83, passed peacefully on April 3, 2026, and has found eternal rest with his Heavenly Father. He was born on June 6, 1942, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to Dr. William Ivey Taylor Jr. and Nancy Young Taylor of Burgaw, North Carolina. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Knox Taylor, and Joseph’s wife, Sandra.

“Bill” is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Lewis Taylor; his daughter, Roberta LaSure, and her husband, Bruce; and his son, John William Taylor. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Taylor LaSure and his wife, Caitlin; Kristen Gillentine and her husband, Zachery; Cypress Bergan and her husband, Joe; Alarin Taylor; Moss Taylor; and Alix Weevil and her husband, Matt; as well as two greatgrandchildren. He is additionally survived by his brother, Michael Taylor, and his wife, Alicia, along with nieces and nephews. Bill graduated from Burgaw High School and Campbell College. He was commissioned as an o cer in the United States Navy in 1965 and went on to serve a distinguished career spanning several decades. He was a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War and U.S. military operations in Grenada, and Lebanon. Over the course of his naval service, he received twentyone decorations, including three Meritorious Service Medals, awards for combat with valor accompanied by four Bronze Stars, and the Purple Heart. He also served as a Company O cer at the United States Naval Academy, attended the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, and commanded the USS Fort Snelling from 1981 to 1984.

Bill was an avid reader with a curious and disciplined mind and could often be found immersed in a good book. He also had a deep love for woodworking, hunting, and shing. He was happiest when he had a project underway and was rarely idle, spending countless hours tinkering in his workshop. Whether he was carefully crafting something useful, xing something that needed repair, or simply making something for the joy of it, Bill found great satisfaction in working with his hands and bringing his ideas to life. He especially loved helping family members with repair projects, always ready to lend his skills, tools, and time. These hours of creation and problem-solving re ected his patience, ingenuity, and steady, generous nature.

Fishing in particular held a special place in his heart, especially when it meant time spent with his grandchildren. He took great pride in teaching them how to sh as they grew up, sharing both practical skills and meaningful time together. Surf-casting and shing from his boat remain some of his grandchildren’s most cherished memories of him.

Bertha Whitley Baker

Sept. 25, 1939 – April 6, 2026

Goldsboro- Mrs. Bertha Whitley Baker, age 86, a vibrant spirit and true pillar of her family, completed her earthly journey on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Willow Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation in Goldsboro, North Carolina. The arrangements are currently incomplete at this time. The Sta of J. B. Rhodes Funeral Home and Cremation would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family, and please continue to keep the family in your prayers.

James Herring Jr.

Oct. 11, 1967 –March 29, 2026

Mr. James Herring Jr., age 58, of Warsaw, NC, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at his home.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from noon to 1 p.m., at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel in Rose Hill, NC, followed immediately by the funeral service at 1 pm. Burial will take place immediately after the service, at Rose Hill Funeral Home Cemetery in Magnolia, NC. Left to cherish his precious memories are one daughter, Turkenya Herring of Washington, DC; mother, Shirley Herring of Warsaw, NC; three sisters: Claudette Steele (Reginald), Beverly Herring and Delphine Herring, all of Washington, DC; two aunts: Edith Ann Perry and Ileatha Jones; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.

In keeping with Robert’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. His family will gather privately to honor and celebrate his life. In lieu of owers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in his memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Mae Bell Jackson.

Above all else, Bill’s greatest joy came from his wife, children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren. His family was always his rst love, followed closely by his unwavering devotion to his country.

In accordance with his wishes, no funeral service or visitation is planned. A Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be held at the family home at a time to be announced. Flowers are welcome and those wishing to make a memorial gift in Bill’s memory may do so to the Wounded Warrior Project or to Lower Cape Fear Hospice of Wilmington.

April 12, 1933 –March 29, 2026

La Grange- With deep sorrow, we announce that Ms. Mae Bell Jackson, age 92, was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. Her unwavering faith was an inspiration to all, and we nd peace knowing she is resting in the arms of the Savior. The arrangements are currently incomplete. On behalf of the Sta of J. B. Rhodes Funeral Home & Cremation, Inc., we extend our deepest condolences to the Jackson’s family, and please keep the family in your prayers during their time of bereavement.

William Henry Hodges

Sept. 20, 1928 –March 31, 2026

Goldsboro - It is with great sadness and sincere hearts that we announce the passing of Mr. William Henry Hodges on March 31, 2026, at UNC Wayne Hospital.

Mr. Hodges was a man of faith, honor, distinction and intellect. He led a life worth mirroring. He was a great bricklaying instructor at North Lenoir High School and served in the United States Army. Mr. Hodges was a mentor to many troubled youth even after his retirement from teaching. Mr. Hodges leaves a legacy that will never be forgotten and always highly spoken of. The Sta of J.B. Rhodes Funeral Home and Cremations, Inc. are praying for the family as they make arrangements to celebrate a life well lived and the many friends who were dear to him. There will be a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at noon at the Goldsboro-Raleigh District Assembly on 211 West Hooks River Road, Goldsboro, NC. He will be laid to rest at Wayne Memorial Park North, 1191 Old Grantham Road, Goldsboro, NC. Please keep this family in prayer.

Zandra Holmes

Dec. 14, 1956 – April 3, 2026

Zandra Katherine Smith Holmes, age 69, of Duplin County, passed away on April 3, 2026, in Kenansville, NC.

She was born on December 14, 1956, in Lenoir County to William C. Smith & Nina Mae Go . Zandra Katherine Holmes was known for her sassy and vocal personality. She was a big animal lover - It didn’t matter whether cats or dogs, if she found an animal, she was going to take it home & take care of it.

Zandra is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Perry. Zandra is also survived by her sons, Donald & James Korzeniewski (Cheryl) of Greenville, sister, Debbie Shivar (Dustin) of Lenoir County, brother, Garland Smith (Cindy) of Wilmington, NC, grandchildren, Melody Korzeniewski, Lily Korzeniewski, & Jacob Korzeniewski, and one greatgrandchild, Olivia Vargas. In addition to her parents, Zandra was preceded in death by her infant son, Matthew, a brother, Pete, & her dogs, PJ & Bear.

A visitation will be held on April 7, 2026, at noon at Community Funeral Home of Beulaville. Service will follow at 1 p.m. Zandra Holmes will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family.

Deborah “Debbie” Lynn Anderson

June 14, 1965 – April 1, 2026

Deborah “Debbie” Lynn Anderson, 60, passed peacefully from her earthly life on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington, surrounded with love by family.

She was born June 14, 1965, in Charleston, South Carolina, the daughter of Harold Lee Hamilton Jr. and Brenda Annette Rochelle Corbell. In addition to her parents, Debbie was preceded in death by her son, Christian Scot Anderson.

Debbie is survived by her husband of 28 years, David Justin Anderson; sons, Garnet Anderson, Andrew Anderson, and David Justin Anderson II; daughters, Deborah Adelle Fields and Christal Ann Fields; three grandchildren; sisters, Teresa Bailey (Guy), Sharon Hamilton, Tina Hamilton, and Virginia Hamilton; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Debbie was employed with Pizza Hut in Southport for several years, a job she truly loved.

Debbie was a loving and caring wife, mother, sister, and friend. Her family was the joy and center of her life. Debbie was loved and will be forever remembered.

The memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Rileys Creek Baptist Church with Pastor Art Sauer conducting the service.

Leo Cromity

Sept. 3, 1945 –March 27, 2026

Leo Cromity, 80, of Atkinson, NC, passed away on March 27, 2026, in Wilmington, NC. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Hawes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Atkinson, NC. Public viewing will be from noon to 1 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Corbett Cemetery in Atkinson.

Robert Brock McCoy

Oct. 17, 1939 – April 1, 2026

Goldsboro- Mr. Robert Brock McCoy, 86, completed his earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward, Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at UNC Health Wayne. The arrangements are currently incomplete. Please remember his family in prayer as they navigate through this di cult time.

Frank Lewis Baker III

Sept. 23, 1962 –March 27, 2026

Frank Lewis Baker III, 63, of Cameron, NC, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington. He was born on September 23, 1962, in Raleigh, NC, to the late Frank Lewis Baker Jr. and the late Martha (Pennington) Shuford. Frank was the former owner of Frank Baker Inc., a wholesale car dealership. He was an alumnus of Samaritan Colony in Rockingham and sponsored 100’s of men through AA. Frank was a very respected member of the AA community and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Frank is survived by his daughter, Clarissa Tracy; life companion, Jewels Harris; brother, Gary Fincher (Kathy); sister, Beverly Baker; step-father, Bob Shuford; grandchildren, John Cheatham III, Paul Richard Tracy III, Scarlett Dianne Elizabeth Tracy; nephews, BJ Potts (Yvette), Greg Fincher (Rachel), Je Smith; niece, Ti any Potts; great nephews, Jonathan Spears, Brandon Potts; great niece, Brooklyn Spears; and a host of other family and friends. In lieu of owers, memorial donations may be made in Frank’s honor to Samaritan Colony. Services to be announced.