
State audit uncovers financial mismanagement in Mount Olive
A sweeping investigation by the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor (OSA) has exposed alarming financial mismanagement, contract violations, and fraudulent practices within the town of Mount Olive, implicating both the Municipal Airport and the Water Department. The findings point to a pattern of oversight failures, unauthorized spending, and misuse of public funds dating […]
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After 20-year run, Muscadine Festival hits pause
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 […]
Board of Education appoints new interim superintendent
Daren Tyndall steps into the leadership role following the passing of longtime superintendent Austin Obasohan KENANSVILLE — Duplin County Schools is turning to a familiar and trusted leader to help guide the district through a time of transition. On Aug. 4, during a special meeting, the Duplin County Board of Education appointed Daren Tyndall as […]
Rotary Club honors late rotarian with donation to youth sports
WALLACE — The Wallace Rotary Club presented a check for $1,725 to the Wallace Parks and Recreation Department at its meeting last Wednesday at the Mad Boar. The check was given in memory of a longtime Rotarian, Ken Wilson. “Last year we had a raffle to raise money for equipment for the Wallace Recreation Center,” […]
New hangar plans take flight
KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Airport Commission meeting was called to order Tuesday night, followed by a prayer, dinner and approval of past meeting minutes. Gage King was welcomed to his first official meeting. Airport Director Joshua Raynor, presented a new $2 million change order to the board for approval for the new spec hangar […]
James Sprunt awarded $416K to help at-risk students
KENANSVILLE — For many students in Duplin County, achieving a college degree can be challenging. Some are the first in their families to attend college, while others balance work, caregiving responsibilities, or manage life with a disability. Thanks to a renewed federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant of $416,545 awarded to James Sprunt Community […]
Duplin Elections Board sworn in
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 […]
Dixon announces bid for reelection to NC House
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 […]
Late DCS superintendent leaves lasting mark
KENANSVILLE — Longtime superintendent of Duplin County Schools (DCS) and a voice for equity and innovation in rural education, Austin Obasohan, died on July 24, 2025, after serving for 15 years at the helm of the district. His leadership reshaped local schools and left a lasting mark on students, educators and the community. “We are […]
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