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Abby Cavenaugh
WALLACE — With the symbolic shoveling of dirt on Tuesday morning, $20 million worth of renovations began at the Wallace-Pender Airport.
The project will last through the end of 2026, and will include relocating roads around the airport to make way for an expanded runway, Airport Director Ben Jones said.
“Right now, the roads are in the way of the runway,” Jones explained. “After we move the roads, we can expand the runway to 5,500 feet.”
Jones said he expects the road relocation to be complete by December of this year or January of next year, and then the runway expansion will follow by the end of 2026. The renovations also mean that in the future, the runway can be expanded to 7,500 feet, if necessary.
“This will bring a lot of new jobs and opportunities,” he said. “There will be a lot of manufacturing jobs, due to the new airport hub.”
The airport expansion will also benefit younger people who are just starting their careers, Jones said. “It opens up a lot of jobs to young Americans who want to get into aviation but may not have otherwise had the opportunity,” he added.
“It means a lot to the future of not only Duplin, but Pender County as well as the Wallace area,” Mayor Jason Wells said. “With the expansion comes economic opportunity.”
The rapid growth the Wilmington area is experiencing has caused many recreational pilots to seek more rural airports, Wells added. That’s good news for Wallace, but it also means the road relocation and runway expansion are much needed. He said the project has been in the works for about 10 years, and added that he is pleased to see it finally come to fruition.
“It’s been a labor of love to get this done,” said Warren Hepler, former town council member and a member of the airport board for more than 20 years. “We are centrally located here, with Wilmington, Jacksonville and Fayetteville able to use this as an emergency runway.”
The groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday morning brought in members of the town council, the airport board and Pender County Commissioner Jerry Groves.
“Without the hard work of all of these folks here, none of this would have happened,” Wells said. “It does mean a lot to the future of our community to see the expansion of this airport.”
KENANSVILLE — Karen Brinson Bell, a native of Duplin County and the NC State Board of Elections executive director, was recently elected as the incoming president of the National Association of State Election Directors (NASED). According to the NCSBE announcement, Brinson Bell was sworn in earlier this month during the NASED conference in Washington, D.C., and will serve as association president in 2026. She served as the organization’s vice president last year.
“Through this role on the NASED board, I interact routinely with election officials from across the United States as we learn from each other and improve elections,” Brinson Bell said. “I am proud of the work NASED does to help all election administrators succeed in making voting accessible, secure, and fair across the country.”
Born and raised in Kenansville, Brinson Bell has served in her position at the State Board of Elections for nearly six years. Brinson Bell currently leads about 65 employees at the state agency and has a long history in election administration, having worked in county, state, and national roles since 2006.
Among her many accomplishments in her role, her department initiated a voter confidence campaign during her first year, updated voting equipment, and managed elections during the height of the pandemic. Additionally, the department rolled out the absentee ballot request portal for citizens overseas, introduced ballot tracking for the public, and oversaw a website revamp to enhance security and accessibility. Her department jump-started a four-year plan to modernize the state’s election management system, which handles voter registration statewide and implemented field support to all 100 county boards of elections in the state, among other initiatives.
Her significant role in NASED represents a key milestone in her career, highlighting her leadership and commitment to enhancing the election process. Members of this nonpartisan organization meet twice a year to discuss the latest developments in election administration and share best practices, with the goal of promoting accessible, accurate, and transparent elections.
KENANSVILLE — Last week, District Attorney Ernie Lee issued a statement regarding the use of deadly force by a deputy from the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, which resulted in Joseph Ross Duncan Jr. being shot and injured on Jan. 23.
Lee indicated that after reviewing the deputy’s body camera footage and examining the investigation conducted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, he concluded that the deputy’s actions were justified in self-defense and no evidence suggested that the deputy acted inappropriately. Although the deputy did not sustain any injuries, his actions were deemed to be within his rights, and no criminal charges against him are warranted based on the circumstances revealed by the SBI investigation.
The deputy responded to a disturbance call at a residence on Howards Farm Road in Beulaville on the day of the incident, at around 4:15 a.m. Upon entering the dark residence with a flashlight, the deputy encountered Duncan, who appeared to be holding a knife.
According to the District Attorney’s office, the deputy drew his service weapon and aimed it at Duncan, who advanced toward him, forcing the deputy to back out of the house toward the street. As Duncan continued to approach, the deputy fired his weapon once, striking Duncan in the wrist.
Duncan was subsequently apprehended by other deputies who arrived shortly afterward, and emergency medical services treated him for his injury. The shooting occurred approximately 10 minutes after the deputy activated his body camera upon arriving at the scene.
“The deputy acted quickly to neutralize what he perceived as a threat,” Lee stated. State law permits the use of deadly force when an officer reasonably believes they are in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.
Duncan faces charges that include assault with a deadly weapon on a government official, resisting an officer, obstructing justice, and communicating threats.
KENANSVILLE — Approximately 45 people, including local dignitaries, gathered at the Duplin Commons in Kenansville to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new Duplin County Transportation facility on Feb. 18.
County Manager Bryan Miller welcomed guests to the $4.27 million facility, highlighting its significance for the community’s growth and future.
“This state-of-the-art facility stands as a testament to our county’s dedication to progress and innovation by enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of our transportation services. Our employees and the service will significantly improve the daily lives of our residents,” said Miller. “Transportation will continue to foster economic growth and they will continue to pave a broader pathway into the future for Duplin County.”
Miller acknowledged various stakeholders in attendance, including county commissioners, local dignitaries, and transportation staff.
After an invocation by Warsaw Mayor A.J. Connors, Commissioner Dexter Edwards took to the podium, expressing gratitude for a successful project.
“It’s been a long time coming. Like a lot of other projects that we’ve had here in Duplin County, and as you can see, Duplin Commons seems to be really growing,” said Edwards. “And most of this comes from getting help from outside sources.”
He thanked the external partners, highlighting that federal funding from the Department of Transportation awarded in 2019 was crucial in making the project a reality.
Edwards recognized Duplin County Transportation Director Angel Venecia, her team, and everyone involved, noting that the facility wouldn’t have been possible without the combination of external grants and local teamwork. He also emphasized the importance of public transportation in improving access to essential services like medical care and education.
“If my records are correct, y’all logged over 42,000 trips last year; a lot of these trips are just continuing to add value to the county,” said Edwards.
Brennan Fuquay, director of NCDOT Integrated Mobility Division, was next to address the crowd, praising the facility’s modern design and functionality. Fuquay stressed the project’s importance for the community.
“This facility isn’t just a building. It’s a hub for progress. It’s a place that can ensure our community members have access to reliable, safe, and efficient transportation. With over 4,000 square feet of space, this new facility includes more office space for the transit workers, a conference and training room… and also plenty of room for future expansion,” said Fuquay, adding that practical features like the covered parking and the wash bay for keeping the transit vehicles clean will enhance daily operations.
Fuquay acknowledged the resilience of Duplin County’s transit system, which has rebounded from a significant decline in ridership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Duplin County is one of the few rural counties that has not only recovered but is now seeing growth in ridership.
“We’ve now reached more ridership than what we had pre-COVID. And we’re one of the few counties that can say they were averaging 36,000 before COVID, and now we’re [at 42,000], as was mentioned before. This is such a testament to the resilience of the transit system here,” said Fuquay. “Running a transit agency is not easy. It requires dedication, coordination, and unwavering commitment to the community.”
Fuquay reflected on the broader importance of public transportation in supporting families and strengthening the community.
“The impact you make goes beyond the numbers — It changes lives. For individuals who rely on it to get to work, to get to school, or to their medical appointments, transit is essential. For families, it means the ability to support loved ones, to pursue opportunities, and be part of a thriving community,” said Fuquay.
Venecia expressed gratitude for everyone who played a role in bringing the new public transportation facility to life in Duplin County, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to make it a reality. She thanked the Federal Transit Administration for providing funding and the Department of Transportation for facilitating the distribution of those funds and providing technical assistance throughout the process. She also acknowledged the support and guidance from county leadership, which helped keep the project on track and ensured long-term planning for the county’s transportation needs.
Venecia gave special thanks to Jackson Builders, who were instrumental in turning the vision for the facility into a reality, highlighting their flexibility in managing the changes and challenges that arose during the project. She emphasized how the facility will directly benefit the community by improving access to essential services, employment, and other opportunities that enhance quality of life.
She expressed excitement for the future, underscoring the dedication of the staff and their enthusiasm for the growth and opportunities that the new facility will bring to the public transportation system and the county as a whole.
The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, refreshments, and a tour of the new facility, marking a significant milestone for Duplin County’s future progress in transportation and community development.
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MARCH 20
Sheriff’s Office seeks help locating a missing person
The Duplin County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance locating Jamie Brooke Kennedy. She was reported missing from the Pink Hill area of Duplin County on March 9. Kennedy was last seen on Maxwell Mill Road near Albertson on March 2. She is a 34-year-old white female with brown hair and green eyes. She is 5’6” tall and weighs 160 pounds. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Kennedy is asked to contact Detective Green at 910-296-2150 or the Duplin County Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 910-372-9202. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is assisting with this investigation.
Support Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department
The Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department will host its annual barbecue and chicken plate sale fundraiser on Saturday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will take place at 238 N Monk St. Enjoy a delicious barbecue and chicken combo with all the fixings for $12 per plate, or choose one meat with all the fixings for $10. The MVFD will also deliver orders of more than 10 plates. Don’t miss out—grab a plate while they last! Proceeds from the event will benefit the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department.
Teachey to kick off the holiday season with an Easter Egg Hunt
The Town of Teachey is gearing up for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. Families are invited to join in the excitement at the Teachey Town Park on Boney Street. The hunt promises a delightful afternoon and the perfect opportunity for local residents to celebrate the season in a lively and community-focused way. Call 910-285-7564 for more information.
Jackson’s IGA in Kenansville closes its doors
After nearly eight decades of serving the local community, Jackson’s IGA in Kenansville is closing its doors for good. David Jackson, the store owner, made the announcement last week on a social media post. The store is holding a liquidation sale to clear out its remaining stock. Starting Thursday, March 20, all retail items will be 45% off, with prices dropping to 50% off beginning Friday.
MARCH 13
95,000 gallons of animal waste impact Carltons Mill Run Creek
Last Friday, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources reported an incident involving an animal waste spill that affected Carltons Mill Run Creek in Duplin County. The spill originated from C&J Finishers, located on Carrolls Road near Warsaw. According to DEQ, a broken irrigation hydrant led to the release of approximately 95,000 gallons of animal waste into a tributary of Carltons Mill Run, which flows into Stewarts Creek. The spill occurred from the morning of March 4 through March 5. DEQ documents indicate that when C&J Finishers was notified about the spill, they turned off the pump and took measures to contain and remove the waste from the affected stream. Following the incident, water samples were collected. DWR determined that there are no public drinking water system intakes in the impacted area.
Fake registration plate leads to arrest
Beulaville Police arrested Kari Taylor last Saturday after allegedly stopping her for driving a vehicle with fake registration plates and suspicious activity at a Speedway store. According to law enforcement, the officer found 60 Oxycodone pills during during a search of the vehicle. Taylor was charged with multiple drug offenses and was taken to the Duplin County Jail. She received a $60,000 bond.
3 arrested in drug, weapons bustDeputies with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office seized over 340 grams of marijuana, marijuana shatter, an Anderson AM-15 rifle, a FNS 9mm handgun, numerous rounds of ammunition, and various drug paraphernalia, after conducting a traffic stop at Teachey Park in Wallace, on March 2. Rashawn M. Lemon, 19, Omari J. Kenan, 18, and Wuilfredo N. Perez, 19, were arrested and face multiple felony charges.
MARCH 6, 2025
Duplin County Emergency Services warns of hazardous burning conditions
Duplin County Emergency Services has issued a warning about hazardous burning conditions following a weekend of intense fires across the region. According to DCES social media, approximately 23 fires broke out in wooded areas, brush, fields, and grass, with emergency responders successfully containing all of them. However, the danger isn’t over yet. The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement indicating increased fire risk due to low humidity, dry vegetation, and the heightened potential for fire to spread quickly. As a result, Duplin County Emergency Services strongly advises against any outdoor burning. If burning is absolutely necessary, they urge people to have fire suppression equipment on hand to prevent fires from escaping control. The conditions are so dry that even a small spark could lead to a devastating wildfire, making it critical to stay prepared and vigilant when dealing with fire in these conditions.
Man arrested at Relax Inn
Tyrone Watford, 43, was arrested on Feb. 28 after a search warrant was executed at the Relax Inn in Warsaw as part of an investigation into drug sales and possession. During the search, officers discovered methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and large amounts of cash, which indicated involvement in illegal drug activity. As a result of the search, Watford was charged with several drug offenses and is on a $80,000 secured bond.
Two arrested in Magnolia one faces multiple drug charges
Andrew Major McGlocking and Darius Jamal Houston have been arrested and are at Duplin County Jail. According to law enforcement, Houston was arrested on an outstanding Order for Arrest from New Hanover County and McGlocking was taken into custody after authorities discovered over 500 grams of marijuana and several items of drug paraphernalia during a drug investigation search at their residence on Larry Hooks Lane in Magnolia on Feb. 21. McGlocking was given a secured bond of $50,000 and charged with felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana, felony possession of marijuana, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.
FEB. 20, 2025
Suspect charged in overdose investigation
Elijah Eddie Robinson, 23, of Wallace, was arrested on Feb. 17, in connection with an overdose death that occurred in March 2024. According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies found Jacey Newkirk’s body on March 7, 2024, after responding to a call at South NC 50 Highway in Rose Hill. According to the DCSO, investigators determined that the victim had obtained narcotics from Robinson prior to her death. On Feb. 13, the North Carolina State Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the cause of death was a fentanyl overdose. Robinson was charged with death by distribution and is currently being held in the Duplin County Jail on a $250,000 bond.
DEQ responds to animal waste spill in Duplin
On Tuesday, North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Division of Water Resources, reported a spill of approximately 84,000 gallons of animal waste that impacted Doctors Creek over the weekend. The spill originated from Farm 6703 and 6704, located on Kenan Loop Road in Wallace, and was caused by a malfunction in the equipment used to pump waste between lagoons. According to the report, the spill occurred on Feb. 15-16. The Division of Water Resources confirmed that the waste was cleaned up, and samples were taken at the discharge point, as well as upstream and downstream, to assess the water quality impacts related to the spill. DEQ stated that there are no known public water system surface water intakes along the path affected by the waste.
Juvenile in custody after high-speed chase
A Duplin County 15-year-old is in custody of the Duplin County Juvenile Detention Center after a high speed chase led to his arrest. According to the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office the high-speed chase began in Duplin County when, allegedly, the young male jumped into a vehicle belonging to an elderly woman who was dropping off trash at a trash dump on Jan. 6. The LCSO reported that officers observed the vehicle driving at a high rate of speed while traveling north on N.C. 11 and attempted to stop it. The juvenile allegedly led deputies on a high-speed chase from N.C. 11 in Pink Hill onto U.S. 70 West, ending at Kinston’s Barnet Park. He has been charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, felony speeding to elude arrest, and several other traffic violations.
Faison Farmers’ Parade scheduled for March
The Faison Farmers’ Parade is back and will take place on March 15 at 11 a.m. Sponsored by the Faison Improvement Group, this year’s parade will include a street festival in downtown Faison featuring food trucks, children’s activities, vendors, static displays, vintage tractors, and live music. The parade route will begin on West Main Street and conclude at the old Piggly Wiggly parking lot.
Murphy Family Ventures seeks summer interns
High school and college students can spend their summer gaining hands-on experience in pig production, farm maintenance, or heavy equipment operation by signing up for a summer internship with Murphy Family Ventures. Interns will work under the supervision of department leaders and the intern coordinator, learning and performing key responsibilities in their assigned area. Internships run from May 26 through August 1. Interns must be at least 16 years of age and have reliable transportation. Apply online at: http://bit.ly/4kapmZx.
ECU Health Duplin Hospital hosting “Fireside Chat”
ECU Health Duplin Hospital is hosting a “fireside chat” to help potential employees learn more about joining the team. A virtual session will be held on March 6, 6-7 p.m. The virtual session will include more information about the hospital’s mission and vision, as well as an interactive panel discussion with nursing leaders. An in-person session will follow on March 25, 6-8 p.m., at the Mad Boar Restaurant & Pub in Wallace. Register at https://wkf.ms/4jQ1x8U.
Connors appointed to NC Senior Tar Heel Legislature
Warsaw Mayor A.J. Connors was recently appointed by the Board of County Commissioners as a delegate to the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature representing Duplin County for a two-year term. His term will expire in December 2027.
FEB. 13, 2025
Authorities release names of Beulaville house fire victims
Officials with Duplin County Fire and Emergency Management have released the names of two individuals found dead in a house fire on Jan. 28. The victims were identified as Phil Terry Rhodes, 77, and Emily Mashburn Rhodes, 75. Their bodies were discovered while firefighters were extinguishing the flames and conducting search and rescue operations inside the home located at 212 South Williams Road, near NC 24 Highway in Beulaville. Authorities have reported that the investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing, and there is currently no evidence to suggest any criminal activity was involved. The Duplin County Fire Marshal’s Office has requested the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal to take the lead on this investigation.
UMO receives $1M grant for state-of-the-art educational livestock facility
The University of Mount Olive has been awarded a $1 million grant from the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission to help complete Phase 1 of an educational livestock facility. According to the university’s announcement, this funding will support the construction of a 30,000-square-foot multipurpose training and livestock building located on Shady Grove Road. Phase 1 is expected to be finished by the end of 2025. The facility will serve as a hub for hands-on training, research, and community engagement in animal agriculture. It will include livestock handling areas, a training arena, classrooms, and will provide a unique multispecies educational environment for students and farmers.
Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship is accepting applications
The application period for the Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship is now open. This scholarship offers a valuable opportunity for students from rural and economically disadvantaged communities to receive financial assistance for their education. The application deadline is March 1. Visit Golden LEAF Foundation for more information.
FEB. 6, 2025
Applications for NC State Extension Summer Internship are open
The 2025 NC State Extension Summer Internship program is now accepting applications. From crop protection to 4-H livestock projects, Extension internships offer a first-hand view of a career making a positive difference in the community. There are 40 internships available across the state. Undergraduate and graduate students are invited to apply. Visit ncst.at/sXQz50UN5cl to learn more and apply.
Mt. Olive Pickle Company Gift Shop moving downtown
The Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce announced that the Mt. Olive Pickle Company Gift Shop is moving downtown this summer.
Applications for the Governor’s Page Program are now open
High school students and recent high school graduates in good academic standing are encouraged to apply for the Governor’s Page Program. Participants will visit Raleigh for a week of hands-on participation in their state government. Participation in the program is an excused absence from school. Participants receive a $200 stipend to compensate for any costs associated with the program. For more information, call 919-814-2030.
NC Tobacco Trust Fund 2025 grant cycle opens
Applications for the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund 2025 grant cycle are now open and will be accepted until March 7. These grants will go toward agricultural projects that support the industry, impact rural communities and stimulate economic development. Visit tobaccotrustfund.org/2025-grant-cycle/ to learn more.
Duplin Coalition for Health members undergo training
Several members of the Duplin Coalition for Health recently received Results Based Accountability (RBA) training. ECU Health Duplin Hospital reported on a social media post that they are excited to apply their new knowledge to produce measurable improvements in the health and well-being of people in Duplin County, and are looking to expand the coalition by recruiting representatives from various sectors like county and town government agencies, the health care community, faith and educational institutions, nonprofit organizations and businesses. For more information, contact Maury Castillo at 910-296-2130.
JAN. 30, 2025
Duplin saw record snow for the first time in over a decade
The NC State Climate Office reported that southern Duplin had 4 inches of snow for the first time since February 2014. According to the report, the Wallace ECONet station recorded the coldest reading in more than seven years, with temperatures dropping to 6°F last Thursday morning.
WolfCAC is searching for candidates
The NC State College Advising Corps is searching for candidates to join the team as a part of their 2025-26 cohort. They are looking to fill vacancies in Duplin County. The NC State College Advising Corps recruits recent college graduates to serve as AmeriCorps College Advisers in high-need rural high schools to guide students through pursuing a postsecondary pathway.
UMO named state’s safest college campus
The University of Mount Olive was recently named the Safest College Campus in North Carolina according to Niche’s 2025 Safest College Campuses rankings. School officials reported this marks the fourth consecutive year that UMO has held the top spot in the state.
Opportunity to become the next NC Watermelon Queen
The North Carolina Watermelon Association is currently accepting applications for the next North Carolina Watermelon Queen until Feb. 1. The selected queen will represent the state’s agriculture industry and serve as an inspiring ambassador for watermelon farmers. Visit NC Watermelon Queen for more information.
Former Wallace airport manager to lead one of NC’s largest airports
Gage King, who served as the Henderson Field Airport manager for more than six years has been appointed as the new NCGTP airport director, succeeding Rick Barkes, who retired last December.
JAN. 23, 2025
Duplin experiences severe drought conditions
The North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council announced last week that Duplin is one of 11 counties in eastern North Carolina experiencing severe drought conditions. The mid-to-long-term forecast suggests that these dry winter conditions will persist, largely due to the La Niña weather pattern. For the latest drought updates, which are released every Thursday, visit ncdrought.org.
Free income tax assistance offered through UMO
The University of Mount Olive Tillman School of Business will host a complimentary income tax service available to all eligible taxpayers through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. From Feb. 12 to April 9 taxpayers can drop off their tax documents to be processed for free by student volunteers. After the tax return is completed and reviewed, the site coordinator will contact taxpayers to review and approve the tax return before electronic submission to the IRS. For general questions, call 843-446-6547.
Chinquapin Volunteer Fire and Rescue offers help with EMT certification
The Chinquapin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad is searching for dedicated individuals who live in Chinquapin or the surrounding area to join their team and is offering assistance to qualified candidates interested in getting their NC Emergency Medical Technician certification. For more information, visit Chinquapin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Monday nights at 7 p.m.
Applications are being accepted for paid summer internship at NCA&T
The Cooperative Extension Student Internship Program is offering an 11-week paid Summer Internship Program at NCA&T for full-time college students looking to make an impact in agriculture & natural sciences, 4-H youth development, community development, and family & consumer sciences. This hands-on experience is designed to take classroom knowledge and put it into real-world action. Interns will develop skills in advocacy, program planning, and social impact, gaining insight into community engagement and youth development work across diverse NC communities.
JAN. 16, 2025
Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance
Duplin County offices will be closed on Jan. 20 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Magnolia reopens land use community survey
The Town of Magnolia has announced that they will reopen their Land Use Plan Community Survey through the first week of February, to give Magnolia residents another opportunity to share their thoughts on the town’s growth and development. Over 40 Magnolia residents have already shared their perspectives. Don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard. This 18-question survey takes just a few minutes to complete.
Community gathering seeks to engage the public in open discussions
Join the Town of Warsaw Community Gathering on Feb. 27 at the Warsaw Park and Rec Center on 309 Memorial Drive at 6 p.m. This is your opportunity to ask questions, share suggestions and meet with local leaders, elected officials, town employees, law enforcement, first responders and community organizations. Enjoy light refreshments and engage in open discussions.
Landowner summit registration deadline is fast approaching
The N.C. Cooperative Extension Duplin County Center will host an Eastern Forestry Landowner Summit on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 165 Agriculture Drive, Kenansville. The registration deadline is Jan. 22. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from foresters, wildlife biologists, university professors, and Extension specialists, as well as visit with various organizations exhibiting their products and services. This all-day event is designed for woodland and forest landowners who desire a deeper understanding of forestry and wildlife management.
JAN. 9, 2025
Mt. Olive Pickles receives $3 million grant award
Mt. Olive Pickles of Duplin County has been awarded $3 million from the North Carolina Agricultural Manufacturing and Processing Initiative. This award is part of a $6.6 million initiative to increase the state’s agricultural manufacturing and food processing capacity while reducing costs and burdens for area farmers and growers.
Morris Murphy re-elected to AgCarolina Farm Credit Compensation Committee
AgCarolina Farm Credit recently announced their Director and Nominating Committee election results. Morris Murphy, a Duplin County row crop farmer from was re-elected to serve on the AgCarolina Farm Credit Compensation Committee for region 8, which serves Duplin, Jones and Lenoir counties. He will serve a four-year term. Murphy also serves on the NC Pork Council Board and James Sprunt Community College Foundation Board.
Eastern Forestry Landowner Summit registration deadline is Jan. 22.
The N.C. Cooperative Extension Duplin County Center will host an Eastern Forestry Landowner Summit on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 165 Agriculture Drive, Kenansville. The registration deadline is Jan. 22. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from foresters, wildlife biologists, university professors, and Extension specialists, as well as visit with various organizations exhibiting their products and services. This all-day event is designed for woodland and forest landowners who desire a deeper understanding of forestry and wildlife management.
JAN. 2, 2025
Pitch It Duplin is now accepting applications
The Duplin Chamber of Commerce and James Sprunt Community College Small Business have teamed up to host Pitch It Duplin! A competition that gives business entrepreneurs the chance to win start-up money by pitching a new business idea to a panel of three industry experts. The application period is now open. The deadline to submit your application video, professional resume, and proof of residency is Feb. 18 by 5 p.m.
Learn how to optimize soybean production
The Southeast Region Soybean School will host a class at the Duplin County Extension Center in Kenansville on Jan. 28. The class will feature research-based information for optimizing soybean production. Register by Jan. 15 to reserve your spot. Visit ncsoy.org/regional-soybean-schools to register.
Med instead of Meds series start on Jan. 16
Nutrition Education: Med instead of Meds, a 6-session series will start on Jan. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cooperative Extension office in Duplin. Cost is $20 for the series. For more information, visit go.ncsu.edu/duplin-mim space is limited.
Free adult wellness screenings
Free adult wellness screenings for blood pressure, glucose, body mass index and cholesterol checks will be offered at the Thelma D. Bryant Library in Wallace on Jan. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon. ECU Health will also offer free health coaching.
Teachers can now win a $2,500 grant to promote financial literacy
The Coastal Credit Union Foundation is awarding $2,500 grants to support innovative projects that inspire financial literacy in North Carolina classrooms. If you are a credentialed teacher with a unique idea to promote financial education, and you’re currently working at a public or private school in North Carolina you can apply now through Feb. 1.
The $2,500 grants will be awarded to the most innovative and impactful ideas. Recipients of the grants will be selected and announced by March 1. Visit coastal24.com/teachergrant to apply.