MAGNOLIA — Lace up your sneakers and leash up your dogs for a “pawsome” day at Strutt with your Mutt on Sunday, May 4, at 9 a.m. at The English Country Barn in Magnolia. This fundraising event will feature dog-friendly, timed trail runs with options for runners of all levels along with their furry friends.
Participants can choose between a 5K Fun Run/Walk at 9:30 a.m. and a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk at 10 a.m. Registration is required. The event will including a pet contest, face painting, caricatures, a DJ, a pet photographer, food trucks, raffles, and a vendor village.
Medals will be awarded to the first-place overall, along with prizes for the first, second, and third place winners in both men’s and women’s categories for each race.
“Last year, Adoption First saved 1,190 lives, and the money raised from this event will help them continue their amazing work,” said Jessica Kasunic with Adoption First Animal Rescue.
Don’t forget to dress your pups in their cutest outfits for a chance to win the Strutt With Your Mutt dog costume contest.
Kasunic told Duplin Journal that they are looking forward to hosting the event and supporting the rescue in its lifesaving efforts while raising awareness. All proceeds will directly benefit Adoption First Animal Rescue.
Last week, the North Carolina Community Foundation announced the appointment of Robert B. Kornegay as one of two newly appointed board members. He currently serves as the manager of member services at Tri-County Electric Membership Corporation, a position he has held for over two decades.
“It’s an exciting new chapter, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to contribute on a broader scale,” Kornegay told Duplin Journal via email. “I’m eager to see what the future holds with this new opportunity.”
Kornegay has an extensive business management and community service background, with leadership roles in agricultural and educational organizations. He currently chairs the Wayne County Development Alliance, a group focused on economic development, and serves as the vice chair of the University of Mount Olive Board of Trustees. Additionally, he is a board member of the Duplin County Community Foundation.
The Mount Olive native is also involved in his family business, Kornegay Brothers Inc., a hog farming operation that partners with Murphy Family Farms. As the company’s co-owner, secretary, and treasurer, he plays a significant role in managing the farming operations.
Kornegay has been actively involved in the community and has a long track record of service on multiple boards and organizations, including the Duplin County Board of Commissioners, the James Sprunt Community College Board of Trustees, the North Carolina Global TransPark Commission, the Duplin County Education Foundation, and the Duplin County Partnership for Children. He has also served as the former president of both the North Carolina Plant Food Association and the Duplin County Community Foundation. Kornegay holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Mount Olive.
Last week, James Sprunt Community College broke ground on its Workforce Development Center — a state-of-the-art facility designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in essential trades like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
“We are incredibly excited about the impact this center will have—not only for our students, but for the workforce across Duplin County and beyond,” stated Jay Carraway, James Sprunt Community College president, in a media announcement.
Spanning 22,000 square feet, the Workforce Development Center will serve as a future-forward space and will offer an innovative learning environment where students will receive expanded opportunities to dive into hands-on training utilizing the latest tools and technologies.
“This facility represents a major step forward in our mission to provide accessible, career-ready education and to help shape the future of our community’s skilled labor force,” said Carraway.
Expected to open its doors by the summer of 2026, the Workforce Development Center promises to be a game-changer for local students, providing them with not only the tools they need but also the critical skills and experience needed to thrive in technical careers that fuel growth.
Pictured from left to right are A.J. Connors, Wayne Branch, Jay Carraway, Rep. Jimmy Dixon, Anita Powers, and Ed Emory as they break ground for the James Sprunt Community College new Workforce Development Center on April 9. Photo Kyle Tyndall / James Sprunt Community College
With the official groundbreaking, JSCC and local leadership are ushering in an exciting new chapter for both the college and the wider Duplin County community. The new facility will support JSCC’s commitment to aligning education with industry needs—ensuring that local students are not just prepared for the workforce but are poised to excel and drive their communities forward.
Get ready for a “berry” good time at the Garden Gala on April 26 and let the good times blossom as Wallace kicks off the festivities leading up to one of the most anticipated events in Duplin County—the Carolina Strawberry Festival.
Held in the lush Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Garden Gala promises an afternoon of lively entertainment, vibrant blooms, and delightful surprises, all celebrating the town’s rich agricultural history.
Bring your dancing shoes and enjoy live music performances by the Blackwater Band. The event will also include a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and an after-party hosted at the Mad Boar, complete with a complimentary shuttle service running between the two venues, ensuring a worry-free experience.
On April 27, participants can enter the Strawberry Recipe Contest by dropping off their creations at the Wallace Depot at 3 p.m. Contestants will compete for cash prizes in both youth and adult categories, as well as the coveted Best in Show award.
Then, gear up for the main event— the Carolina Strawberry Festival on May 2 and 3 in Historic Downtown Wallace.
Friday evening will be alive with carnival rides and vibrant music as Carl Newton’s Review and the Band of Oz take the main stage.
Early risers can kick off Saturday with the Strawberry Festival 5K Run and the Strawberry Jam Fun Run at 8 a.m., both starting and finishing at the Campbell Center. Compete for overall male and female honors, as well as top spots in age categories: 10 and under, 11 to 18, 19-39, and 40+. Rally your friends, family, and neighbors to vie for the largest team prize. The Strawberry Jam is a non-timed 1-mile event. All proceeds from the 5K sign-ups will help fund the new Inclusive Playground at Clement Park.
The two-day festival will feature Ed’s Dinosaurs, a variety of local craft and food vendors, and a beer and wine garden. The annual pageant will be at 10:30 a.m. on the main stage. Categories include Baby Miss Strawberry, Mini Miss Strawberry, and Little Miss Strawberry.
Get ready to dance with live music by Chocolate Chip & Company, followed by The Embers. Exclusive VIP concert seating for Friday and Saturday is available for purchase and includes a catered dinner.
Savannah Kennedy, a senior at East Duplin High School, created this year’s artwork and will be featured on T-shirts and festival posters. For more details, visit carolinastrawberryfestival.com.
Meet Sheriff Stratton Stokes
Each week, Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Duplin Journal invited Sheriff Stratton Stokes for a Q&A session.
As Sheriff, Stokes plays a vital role in shaping law enforcement priorities and policies in Duplin County. His journey has been marked by steady growth, making significant strides in modernizing the Sheriff’s Office, increasing community engagement, and addressing key issues like jail overcrowding.
His leadership approach is about fostering trust and collaboration, increasing operational efficiency, and promoting transparency. By embracing innovation—through technology and improved resources—he is making a direct impact on the lives of Duplin County residents.
In this Q&A, Stokes discusses his vision for Duplin County, provides insights into some of the current challenges, and discusses how the integration of technology is improving the overall welfare of both officers and citizens. You will also learn about the dad behind the scenes and how he balances life and work.
What motivated you to pursue a career in law enforcement?
Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact that caring can have on individuals and families, especially those who are vulnerable or in crisis. This instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to step up and make a difference.
I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported, and it’s our duty, no matter what our role or profession, to be advocates for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
The opportunity to build relationships within the community, to be a source of guidance, and to foster trust is incredibly fulfilling. Ultimately, my commitment to justice and service drives me every day to ensure that our community thrives in a safe and supportive environment.
Can you tell us about your journey from serving as a jailer to being elected Sheriff?
My journey has been both challenging and rewarding. I began my career in law enforcement as a jailer at the Duplin County Detention Center, where I was responsible for supervising the inmate population and ensuring their safety. This foundational experience taught me the importance of maintaining order and the human side of law enforcement.
From there, I was promoted to Deputy Sheriff, where I gained hands-on experience responding to calls for aid and conducting investigations. Over the years, I earned promotions to Senior Patrol Deputy and then to Sergeant, where I took on greater responsibilities in managing shift operations and training new recruits. Later I served as a Special Agent with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, where I worked major homicide, public corruption, advanced crime scene and narcotics cases. Each of these roles allowed me to build strong relationships within the community and understand the diverse needs of our citizens and the challenges we face as a community.
Being elected Sheriff has been a culmination of years of dedication and a deep commitment to the people of Duplin County. I strive to lead with integrity, transparency, and a focus on community engagement, ensuring that the citizens and families who call Duplin home feel safe and supported.
In what ways does your background as a lawyer influence your approach in your role as Sheriff?
My legal background allows me to navigate complex legal issues with a nuanced understanding of the law. It helps me ensure that our operations are compliant and that we uphold the rights of all individuals. This perspective also aids in collaborating with the district attorney’s office and in developing policies that protect both the community and our officers.
How has technology enhanced law enforcement operations in Duplin under your leadership?
Under my leadership, technology has transformed our operations, increasing efficiency, safety, public engagement, and accountability.
The Sheriff’s Office website now offers easier access to inmate and incident reports online, promoting transparency and saving costs.
An updated tip line and online portal encourage community participation in crime-solving by allowing anonymous submissions.
The acquisition of a DJI Matrice 350 Drone has enhanced our search and rescue capabilities.
The Tek84 Body Scanner has improved security at the jail by detecting contraband amid rising opioid concerns. This advanced technology addresses concerns about overdoses and in-custody deaths, enhancing safety for both inmates and staff.
A new state-of-the-art surveillance system enhances monitoring capabilities, improving overall security and accountability.
The acquisition of a Peacekeeper armored vehicle and DEA radio transmitter system enhance our Special Response Team’s readiness for high-risk situations.
The updated Guard 1 round system improves tracking and adherence to safety protocols, reducing liability.
Conducting training in-house has saved approximately $50,000 annually, customizing programs for our department’s needs.
The acquisition and implementation of new software and hardware have enhanced the Sheriff’s Office investigative capabilities, ensuring swift analysis of evidence.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you first became Sheriff and what achievements are you most proud of?
I encountered several significant challenges. One of the most pressing issues was the modernization of our office through technology. Implementing new systems and tools to enhance efficiency and communication was crucial.
Another major challenge was the recruitment and retention of employees. The salaries offered were uncompetitive, making it difficult to attract quality candidates and keep existing staff motivated and engaged. This issue not only affected morale but also impacted the overall effectiveness of our law enforcement operations.
Additionally, I faced the challenge of overcrowding in our current jail and a deteriorated facility. This situation not only strained our resources but also posed safety concerns for both inmates and staff. Moving forward with the approval for a new jail was essential, but it required navigating complex regulatory, political and financial hurdles.
Despite these challenges, I am proud of several achievements since taking office. We successfully implemented new technology systems that have improved our operational efficiency. We also initiated programs aimed at enhancing employee benefits and compensation, which have begun to improve our recruitment and retention rates. Finally, we made significant progress in addressing the overcrowding issue, with plans for the new jail moving forward, paving the way for a safer and more effective facility. While there is still much work to be done, I believe we are on the right track to create a better environment for both our law enforcement personnel and the community we serve.
You have accomplished a lot since becoming Sheriff, to what do you attribute this success?
Success stems from a collaborative approach. I prioritize building a strong team and engaging with community stakeholders. By fostering open communication and actively listening to the needs of both the department and the community, we have been able to achieve significant outcomes together.
As Sheriff, I also attribute our successes to the unwavering support and collaboration of our community leaders, dedicated citizens, and the commitment of our county manager and county commissioners. Each achievement, from securing approval for the new jail construction to ensuring pay raises for our employees, reflects a collective effort.
State Representative Jimmy Dixon has also played a vital role, advocating for our community’s needs and helping to channel resources where they are most needed, specifically building a new jail. Together, we have fostered an environment of trust and cooperation, which has allowed us to address pressing issues effectively. It’s the shared vision and hard work of everyone involved that has driven these accomplishments, and I am deeply grateful for their partnership.
You are very involved in the community. How do you balance work and family life?
Balancing work and family life, especially as a Sheriff with two young children, requires intentional planning and a strong support system. I prioritize my time between work and home. I also focus on my responsibilities and community engagement, ensuring that I am present and responsive to the needs of our citizens.
Additionally, I lean on our community leaders and fellow sheriffs for support. They understand the demands of the job and are always there for support and advice.
Ultimately, my family is my foundation, and I strive to be a role model for my children, demonstrating the importance of service, dedication, and the value of community involvement while ensuring they feel loved and supported at home.
What are your top priorities for your next term if re-elected?
As Sheriff, my unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our citizens remains my top priority. The drug epidemic is a pressing issue that continues to plague our nation, and it has not spared our communities. I recognize the devastating effects addiction can have on families and the fabric of our society. I will continue to allocate resources effectively to combat this crisis, employing a multi-faceted approach and strict enforcement against those who choose to distribute harmful substances.
In order to uphold the highest standards of service, it is crucial that we hire and retain the best employees possible within the Sheriff’s Office. Our deputies and staff are the backbone of our law enforcement efforts, and I am committed to providing them with the training, resources, and support they need to perform their duties with excellence. By fostering a positive work environment and investing in professional development, we can ensure that our team is equipped to offer the best services to our citizens.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of effective law enforcement. I believe in the power of open dialogue between the Sheriff’s Office and the residents of Duplin. Together, we can build trust and strengthen our community bonds, creating a safer environment for everyone.
If re-elected, my top priorities will focus on enhancing public safety, continued fight against the drug epidemic, and ensuring that our Sheriff’s Office remains a model of excellence. I will work tirelessly to implement innovative strategies to combat crime and improve our response to the needs of our community. By investing in our personnel, fostering community relationships, and tackling the challenges we face head-on, I am confident that we can make Duplin a safer and brighter place for generations to come. Together, we will continue to build a safer community where everyone can live, work, and raise a family.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, grilling, and taking trips. I also love reading news on current events and miscellaneous articles about history, government, and science.
What was the last book you read?
A national bestseller, “The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell”.
Where is your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?
Duplin County has a lot of family-owned food establishments that serve delicious food. There is no way I can pick just one. It really depends on what part of the county I’m in.
In your opinion, what is the best thing about Duplin County?
The best thing about Duplin County is undoubtedly the citizens and families that call this place home. They are our most important asset and the heart of our community. Their resilience, kindness, and commitment to one another create a strong and supportive environment. It’s inspiring to see how families come together to uplift each other, whether through local events, volunteer work, or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need. This sense of unity and belonging is what truly makes Duplin County a special place to live and serve.
WALLACE — Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries (DCOM) Crisis Center plays a vital role supporting individuals and families facing crisis situations in Duplin County.
Jeralene Merritt, director of DCOM Crisis Center told Duplin Journal clients typically seek food, utilities, and rent assistance.
Merritt, who has been with DCOM since in 2020, has seen the organization evolve over the years adding new programs and partnerships to meet the increasing needs of the community. They have expanded their pantries from two to six locations and introduced programs, including the backpack ministry, money management assistance, and support for the homeless.
“We have added a thrift store,” Merritt noted, adding that they have also increased the financial support they provide to clients.
Merritt, who works part time at the center, shared that over 105 volunteers are involved in various programs, playing a crucial role in DCOM’s operations. On service days, DCOM serves a significant number of people, assisting between 10 to 28 clients within a span of 2.5 hours.
“We see, just in this office, on Tuesdays and Thursdays for two hours and a half, we can see anywhere from 10 to 28 clients,” said Merritt. “We serve over 2,000 clients in Duplin County in food every month.”
The organization was initially inspired by local pastors who recognized the need for a central location to help those in crisis, as many were going from church to church seeking assistance. DCOM was founded by pastors in Wallace who observed this pattern and decided it was essential to establish a centralized hub where individuals could receive help. This location allows churches and community members to contribute funds while keeping track of individuals in crisis and assisting them more effectively.
“Our primary focus is on crisis intervention,” Merritt explained, emphasizing that individuals seeking assistance must provide proof of their crisis. It was with this understanding, that pastors and local community members came together to establish DCOM.
Merritt began volunteering there after retiring from the Department of Correction, where she served for 30 years.
While volunteering, the organization sought an executive director, and she applied. Merritt was hired on July 5, 2020.
DCOM remains sustainable through grants, donations from churches, and contributions from individuals. The organization also generates funds through its thrift store. Merritt is responsible for writing grants to ensure that the organization can continue to meet its clients’ needs.
While there are no new programs planned for the near future, Merritt hopes to one day create a homeless shelter in Duplin, as there is a significant need for such services.
Volunteers and community partnerships are essential to DCOM’s success, and the executive director is committed to ensuring that the organization continues to serve those in need effectively and sustainably.
DCOM operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering a variety of services to those in need. These services include food assistance, emergency transportation, help with rent and utilities, as well as providing diapers, hygiene items, and packages for the homeless.
The organization assists clients who are at risk of eviction or have received a disconnection notice from utility providers, but individuals must demonstrate their crisis to receive support.
In addition, DCOM offers food for children over the weekends, especially aimed at families experiencing food insecurity. They prepare over 250 backpacks filled with food each week for local students.
While DCOM previously provided assistance with minor home repairs, such as fixing broken steps or windows, this program has been paused due to a shortage of volunteers. Also, while the mobile pantry for migrant workers is no longer in operation, there is a smaller mobile pantry serving elderly individuals in need of food.
Merritt told the Duplin Journal that DCOM collaborates with pastors who provide counseling services to clients in need.
One particularly memorable story for Merritt involves a domestic violence survivor who, survivor who, with DCOM’s assistance, was able to escape an abusive situation and find a safe place to live with her children.
“She was in one of those mobile homes, and it was four children. And she was running from her husband because of abuse… we were able to find a place for her to park her RV, and we were able to give her food and some of the other needs that she needed,” she explained.
“I always remember that… she was so very thankful. Sometimes people are not thankful. Sometimes they’re wounded for the wrong reason. They might not tell you the truth, but it was something about her and those children that really touched me, and I remember that.”
The organization strives to maintain a comfortable and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to seek help. Trust and privacy are fundamental to DCOM’s success, allowing clients to rely on the organization for support without fear of judgment or breach of confidentiality.
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