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Abby Cavenaugh

Warsaw Wastewater Plant restarts after major spill into Stewarts Creek

Over 9 million gallons of partially treated wastewater released during 10-day breakdown

WARSAW — The Warsaw Wastewater Treatment Plant is back online after a major failure that resulted in millions of gallons of partially treated wastewater flowing into Stewarts Creek from Aug. 22 through Aug. 28 This incident is part of an ongoing series of environmental and regulatory challenges linked to chronic industrial overloading.

“During the period of repairs from Aug. 18-28, the treatment plant upset led to approximately 9.6 million gallons of partially treated waste reaching Stewarts Creek,” a spokesperson with the North Carolina Division of Water Resources (DWR) told Duplin Journal.

The DWR confirmed that the treatment plan is back online as of Friday, Aug. 29. The DWR spokesperson shared that the facility is once again treating wastewater, but efforts are still underway to bring the plant into full compliance with its discharge permit limits.

This discharge incident highlights a long-standing issue with regulatory noncompliance, primarily due to industrial overloading from two major users: Villari Foods Group and C2NC.

Even before the recent failure, the plant had been facing operational challenges, including excessive levels of ammonia, nitrogen, and Biochemical Oxygen Demand, which often far exceeded the limits set under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.

In the last couple of years, the town’s wastewater penalties have significantly increased, reflecting ongoing compliance issues. In 2023, total fines reached $12,459.56, with violations occurring in September and December. In 2024, penalties surged to $70,149.06 — over five times the previous year’s total. By the first quarter of 2025, fines escalated to $115,100.53, with a notable fine of $54,363.51 recorded in March, marking the highest monthly penalty to date.

“DWR has assessed civil penalties to the town in response to violations of the treatment plant’s permit conditions, including violations of permit limits for parameters including fecal coliform, ammonia and total suspended solids in its treated wastewater effluent. The total paid in 2025 is $144,234.57,” DWR told Duplin Journal.

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Swing for a Cure aims to raise record funds for cancer research

Swing for a Cure aims to raise record funds for cancer research

WALLACE — River Landing’s annual Swing for a Cure fundraiser is set to return this October, with a goal of exceeding last year’s donation of $20,000 to ECU Health Cancer Center. Organized by the River Landing Golf Association for Ladies (RLGALS), this multi-day event will culminate in an 18-hole charity tournament on Oct. 18. One of the community’s favorite traditions, a dramatic helicopter golf ball drop offering exciting prizes, will also take place.

Leading up to the main tournament, RLGALS will host Putting for Pink on Oct. 8 and 11. This event invites residents and guests of all ages to participate in a 5-hole putting challenge for just $10 per adult and $2 per child. Half of the proceeds will go directly to cancer research.

“Whether you play, volunteer, or simply attend, every contribution brings us closer to a cure,” said Chris Rollins, event chair.

One of the most anticipated highlights will occur at 4 p.m. on tournament day when hundreds of numbered golf balls will be dropped from a helicopter. The three balls landing closest to the pin will divide the proceeds: 25% to the first place, 15% to the second, and 10% to the third. Helicopter ball drop tickets are available, priced at $20 for three balls or $100 for 25 balls. The deadline to purchase is Oct. 12 at noon.

The entry fee for the tournament is $150, which includes a scramble-format round, snacks, beverages, lunch, and a $100 donation. Non-members are welcome to participate for $170 per person.

To purchase tickets, email Elaine Frater at efrater@aol.com, Diane Brostowin at dianebrostowin@gmail.com, Terrie Fritz at momof3wv@gmail.com, or Margaret Overby at margaretcoverby@aol.com. Payments can be made by cash or check, payable to RLGALS.

For more than two decades Swing for a Cure has evolved from a single golf outing into a major fundraising initiative, fueled by dedicated volunteers and the generosity of the community.

Eagle Scout project leaves lasting mark on Wallace Elementary

Eagle Scout project leaves lasting mark on Wallace Elementary

WALLACE — At just 14 years old, Hayes Skidmore is already making a significant impact in his community. A former student of Wallace Elementary School and a dedicated baseball player, Hayes recognized an opportunity to create lasting change through teamwork and a visionary idea. For his Eagle Scout project, he focused on establishing a space where future athletes could build their confidence and develop their skills.

“I remember how hard it was to practice without [a batting cage],” said Hayes. “I thought if I could give the kids a place to improve their skills and enjoy the game.”

Thanks to Hayes’ efforts, Wallace Elementary has a new batting cage — a structure that will serve students for years, giving them a safe, dedicated space to practice and dream. Today, the cage serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of age, can be a catalyst for change.

With help from local businesses, donors and his Scout troop, Hayes raised the funds, coordinated logistics and oversaw the multi-day build from start to finish. Throughout the process, he embodied the values of scouting — leadership, service and responsibility.

“We are so proud of Hayes and his dedication,” said Wallace Elementary School Principal Angelo Cavallaro. “This batting cage is more than just a structure — it’s a symbol of community, generosity and leadership.”

Hayes’ message is displayed on a plaque near the cage, a simple but powerful reflection of his journey: “Scouting taught me to serve, baseball taught me to hustle — may this cage inspire both. In every swing and every step, may we remember to do a good turn daily, for in serving others, we serve Him.”

For Hayes, the project was never just about baseball. It was about giving back to the community that helped raise him and showing other young people that you don’t have to wait to make a difference.

Hayes expressed deep appreciation for everyone who contributed — whether by donating, helping with construction, or offering guidance.

“This project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my community,” said Hayes. “Working together showed me how much we can accomplish when we all pitch in, and I hope this cage helps the kids enjoy the game as much as I have.”

Spare change helps fill empty stomachs

Spare change helps fill empty stomachs

WALLACE — With the 2025–2026 school year underway, the downtown Wallace business community is stepping up to make a difference beyond the classroom. While you’re browsing your favorite shops, you might notice something small with a big impact — donation jars for the interdenominational Backpack Ministry.

These jars, now found at local stores including Art of Hope, Blessings in Store, Evans Jewelry, Farriors Flooring, The French Hen, Johnson Furniture, Mo’ Joe Coffee Shop, Pink Willow, The Rustic Chicken, and Westside Creations, offer shoppers an easy way to support a vital cause — weekend meals for children facing food insecurity.

According to a Backpack Ministry media release, the funds raised through these in-store jars supplement the ongoing support already provided by local churches, individuals, businesses, corporate grants, and Duplin Christian Outreach Ministry — all united by a shared mission to care for our community’s youngest and most vulnerable. Every bit of spare change or extra dollar dropped into these jars helps provide kid-friendly, nutritious food for children who may otherwise go without when other meal programs are not available.

Wendell Murphy joins distinguished ranks of pork industry pioneers

Wendell Murphy joins distinguished ranks of pork industry pioneers

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The pork industry came together last week to recognize one of its most influential leaders, as Wendell Murphy was named the 2025 recipient of the Larry Graham Pork Legacy Award — a distinction reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to the advancement and sustainability of the pork industry.

Presented at the 2025 National Pork Industry Conference in Wisconsin Dells, the award honors individuals whose leadership, innovation, and dedication have helped guide the industry through its most transformative years.

Named after the late Larry Graham, a legendary figure in pork production, the Pork Legacy Award recognizes visionary leadership and a legacy of service, mentorship and progress. Recipients are celebrated not only for their achievements in driving modernization and sustainability, but also for the lasting impact they leave on the industry and its future generations.

Surrounded by his family, Wendell Murphy (center) accepted the Larry Graham Pork Legacy Award during the 2025 National Pork Industry Conference at Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Pictured left to right: Conley Nelson, Wendell H. “Dell” Murphy, Jr., Wendy Murphy, Wendell H. Murphy, Linda Murphy, Regan Murphy Boyd, and Justin Boyd.
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