“The Earp Sub” Helps Raise Funds For Local Student Scholarships

SELMA, N.C. — A Selma restaurant is teaming up with a local family to turn a signature sandwich into scholarships for area students.

Alta’s has launched a limited-time menu item called “The Earp Sub,” with a portion of proceeds benefiting memorial scholarships established in honor of Selma residents Jimmy and Peggy Earp through the Johnston County Education Foundation.

The effort is designed to support local high school seniors while honoring the couple’s legacy of service and community involvement.

Jimmy Earp, who died in 2021, spent more than 30 years as a rural letter carrier on Route 1 in Selma and was well known in the community as an avid golfer and familiar presence in town. Peggy Earp, who died in 2025, was recognized for more than five decades of volunteer work, including her involvement with the Federation of Women’s Clubs and leadership in the Selma Woman’s Club.

Their son, Jim Earp, established the scholarships in their honor to reflect their commitment to community and service.

“Jimmy and Peggy were the heart of Selma,” Jim Earp said. “By partnering with Alta’s, we are not only honoring their memory but also providing meaningful support for the next generation of students in Johnston County.”

Under the partnership, Alta’s will donate a portion of every “Earp Sub” sold directly to the scholarship fund. The restaurant will also match all proceeds generated from sandwich sales, effectively doubling the impact for local students.

Community members have until May 16 to purchase “The Earp Sub,” before it will be removed from the menu. Alta’s is located at 114 W Waddell Street.

The scholarships, administered through the Johnston County Education Foundation, provide financial assistance to graduating seniors and are intended to carry forward the Earps’ legacy of community involvement.

Community members are encouraged to visit Alta’s during the promotion period to purchase “The Earp Sub” and contribute to the scholarship effort.