KENANSVILLE — In an update on Duplin County Schools’ STEAMA learning initiative at the Board of Education’s monthly meeting Tuesday night, Kevin Smith, assistant superintendent for Educational Innovation and Accountability, shared exciting news: Duplin County is the first and currently only North Carolina school district to achieve Cognia’s globally-recognized STEM Certification, illustrating the county’s commitment […]

WALLACE — Deacon Mike Vandiver of the Transfiguration of Jesus Catholic Church spends much of his time in prison — so much so, in fact, that the Pope himself has taken notice. Over the last decade, Vandiver has traveled across the Diocese of Raleigh area (comprised of 54 counties and spanning 33,088 square miles) to […]

As part of our continuing Q&A series with local leaders, Duplin Journal recently sat down with County Commissioner Wayne Branch so that he could provide insights into what it’s like to serve on local government, as well as shed some light on the African-American experience in Duplin County, in honor of Black History Month. Branch […]

Shawn Coston Miller, who lives outside Wallace, was recently a contestant on the longtime popular game show, “Wheel of Fortune.” Miller’s episode aired Dec. 18. “She’s going to put Wallace on the map,” said her sister, Priscilla Coston. “It’s very exciting.” Miller and her husband Kelvin flew out to Los Angeles, California, the week of […]

KENANSVILLE — Pouring rain and chilly temperatures did not keep seniors from enjoying the annual Senior Christmas celebration at the Duplin Events Center on Dec. 11. This year, they saw an increase in participation, with 259 seniors in attendance, surpassing last year’s numbers. The events center was transformed into a festive wonderland as seniors, adorned […]