Sunday, September 30, 2007
Cherry Hospital off state's danger list
Cherry Hospital's "immediate jeopardy" status has been lifted and federal funding for Medicaid patients remains intact, officials announced late Friday. The hospital came under sanctions earlier in the month when state survey teams were sent to Cherry to investigate complaints...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:11 AM Full Story
Cherry report cites patient, medication violations
As Cherry Hospital's response to a recent state investigation winds down, the News-Argus has obtained a copy of the report that lodged all the allegations of deficiencies. The 52-page document had been issued mid-month by the Department of Health and...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Answering his calling to serve
Don Haley remembers the day a terminally ill schoolboy touched his heart. He could close his eyes and tell you the child's name -- how his eyes lit up when he heard a group of airmen had funded his Make-A-Wish...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:08 AM Full Story
Shelter breaks ground Tuesday
The bid has been awarded, all the plans are in hand and with 18 "prominent and well-known women" ready to "dare to bare" to help pay for it, all that's left to do for the county's new million-dollar animal...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Residents, officials discuss how to beat youth violence
Gangs have been around for years in Wayne County, says Ronald Benton, who said he "grew up hard" on the streets of Goldsboro years ago. A "product of the projects," Benton lived in Westhaven until his mother's death when he...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
4-Hers parade their charges at lamb show
Little Haille Whitehurst wasn't really that interested in what was going on in the ring Saturday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. She had completed her round with her market lamb, Lollie, and was more concerned with running around and...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
She's queen of the county fair
When she took the stage Friday night, Whitney Grantham had no idea by night's end she would be Queen of the Fair. The audience loved her -- screaming and yelling her name like they were at a rock concert. And...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Public record
Man shot A 53-year-old North Virginia Street man was shot Wednesday afternoon, Goldsboro police said. Wayne Memorial Hospital spokespeople said Glenwood Earl Moses, 53, of North Virginia Street was still in the hospital, in stable condition on Thursday morning. Moses...Published: Sep 30, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, September 28, 2007
Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Two-year-old Minnie Johnson rides the carousel with her grandfather, Wayne Johnson, Thursday night at the 59th annual Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. For more information see Goat show starts week of livestock fair competitions....Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:27 PM Full Story
Student had a BB gun at school
A 12-year-old Norwayne Middle School student has been charged with possession of a weapon on school property after witnesses saw the youth dispose of a gun on the way home from school Wednesday. Capt. Tom Effler of Wayne County Sheriff's...Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:22 PM Full Story
Cherry's problems don't rival Broughton's
State officials say Cherry Hospital is in better shape than its counterpart in Morganton, Broughton Hospital, which came under fire again this week and was ordered to take stringent reorganization measures. Cherry was placed under "immediate jeopardy" status earlier this...Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:17 PM Full Story
Goat show starts week of livestock fair competitions
Do you know your goat parts? You will have to if you want to be like Elizabeth Rowe and Marisa Linton, two goat-guiding young folks who took first-place showmanship honors Thursday night at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. But Greene...Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:13 PM Full Story
Thursday's fair results
Educational booth FCCLA: Southern Wayne High School FFA: Eastern Wayne High School 4-H: TEACH Club Family and consumer sciences: Wayne County Cooperative Extension Service Vo-Ag horticultural: Southern Wayne High School Girl Scouts: Troop 290 Soil and water conservation: Abigail Johnston...Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:07 PM Full Story
Caseys win Oreo jingle contest
How do you celebrate being named the winner of the national Oreo & Milk Jingle Contest? For St. Mary School student Samantha Casey, it consisted of shopping at Toys R Us in New York's Times Square, where she and her...Published: Sep 28, 2007 2:03 PM Full Story
Beavers help keep tree seedlings healthy at nursery
Millions of forest tree seedlings depended on the Little River for growth at Claridge State Nursery this year. They also got help from a handy pack of beavers and their Little River dam. The southeastern drought -- which now has...Published: Sep 28, 2007 1:58 PM Full Story
Public record
Man shot A 53-year-old North Virginia Street man was shot Wednesday afternoon, Goldsboro police said. Wayne Memorial Hospital spokespeople said Glenwood Earl Moses, 53, of North Virginia Street was still in the hospital, in stable condition on Thursday morning. Moses...Published: Sep 28, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Magic show features local couple
Vicki Michaels used to be cut in six pieces when she and husband Taylor did their magic act. Now she faces even more: Each of those six cubes is pierced with a sword. It's part of the LaGrange couple's new...Published: Sep 28, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
DGDC office workers pack for Europe
Valerie Gleason and Amber Jackson will miss their little office on Walnut Street. They will miss helping to beautify a city they love so much. But most of all, they will miss the community and the people in it. And...Published: Sep 28, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Round 'em Up for the Fair
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Joe Bradley and his 11-year-old niece Jessica Minchew bring in their quarter horses, Lisa and Smoky, to the horse and cattle exhibit stalls this morning at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. For more information see Livestock pens start...Published: Sep 27, 2007 2:13 PM Full Story
Cherry director: Hospital will meet state deadline
Cherry Hospital has complied with recommendations toward lifting "immediate jeopardy" status imposed by the state earlier this month, its director says. And hospital director Dr. Jack St. Clair said he is optimistic that a survey team will lift the sanction....Published: Sep 27, 2007 2:09 PM Full Story
Livestock pens start filling at fairgrounds
For 59 years, three generations of the Hood family of Grantham have brought cattle to the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. Wednesday, it was a heifer and her 2-week-old calf. And this year, it was 10-year-old Garrett Hood who prodded and...Published: Sep 27, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
Drought might stall some crop entries
County Cooperative Extension agents are not sure if the summer's drought will have an effect on the number of farmers who will put up their crops for judging at this year's fair. But they are hoping to get to the...Published: Sep 27, 2007 2:01 PM Full Story
Recreation survey to determine residents' wishes
Citizens have a chance to let the city know what more they want from their recreation areas -- whether it be festivals, botanical gardens, walking trails, an arcade or a water splash park -- through a survey. The parks and...Published: Sep 27, 2007 1:57 PM Full Story
Southeastern water customers told to call office
Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District customers concerned about their water bills this summer -- particularly those from July -- are being told to just call the office for help after several complaints were made, and addressed, at last week's board meeting....Published: Sep 27, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Walnut Creek Council OKs subdivision
The Village at Walnut Creek Council met Wednesday night and approved the final plat of The Links subdivision. The Links is a subdivision that will be a part of Walnut Creek and will include more than 300 new houses. Project...Published: Sep 27, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Habitat meeting October 1
Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne provides monthly information meetings to the public, and the last one for the year is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 1 at 6 p.m at WAGES at 601 Royall Ave. People who are interested in finding...Published: Sep 27, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Public record
Break-in, car theft A Fremont woman told the Wayne County Sheriff's Office that her home was broken into and her car was stolen. Elizabeth Yelverton Murray of U.S. 117 North reported her black Mercury, valued at $9,500, was stolen, investigators...Published: Sep 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Northern end residents want answers to growth
With low turnout and at times, seemingly little interest, it now appears as though Wayne County residents were just saving their best for last, as more than two dozen people turned out for the sixth and final county commission town...Published: Sep 26, 2007 2:04 PM Full Story
U.S. 70 bypass to get first bids soon
With plans being made to begin the bidding process as early as spring 2008, work on the U.S. 70 bypass around Goldsboro could start sometime within the next 12 to 18 months, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation's...Published: Sep 26, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
U.S. 70 project might help with wetland area
A piece of the planned U.S. 70 bypass around Goldsboro would cut through Claridge State Nursery, where millions of tree seedlings are produced each year. But the "credits" that N.C. Department of Transportation needs to make up for the road's...Published: Sep 26, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
WCC board approves $26 million budget
Wayne Community College is embarking on a stellar year, its president told the board of trustees Tuesday night. The board approved a nearly $26 million budget for the fiscal year, reflecting an increase from state and local funding, and college...Published: Sep 26, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Chili Cook-Off downtown Saturday
The Chili Cook-Off to raise money for the Community Soup Kitchen is drawing near, with a number of teams already preparing their secret recipes, hoping to take home the top prize. The event will be held Saturday in the Center...Published: Sep 26, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Clarification
In Tuesday's News-Argus, Steve Johnson, the father of deployed Dudley soldier Joseph Johnson was quoted as saying, "They say Sadr City is to Baghdad what Green Acres is to Goldsboro ...." Those words, he said, were in no way intended...Published: Sep 26, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Couple pray for safe return
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Steve and Shirley Johnson look at a picture of their 20-year-old son, Joseph, who recently deployed to Iraq with the Army National Guard. Joseph, a military policeman who worked at a local Andy's before he enlisted, is...Published: Sep 25, 2007 2:10 PM Full Story
A son heads to war
DUDLEY -- Shirley Johnson knew. There was just something in the tone of the voice on the other end of that telephone call, she said. She admits she had been a little jumpy. After all, her 20-year-old son, Joseph, had...Published: Sep 25, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
Atkinson focusing on graduation rates
State Superintendent of Public Instruction June Atkinson told the Wayne County Democratic Party Monday night that she has one simple goal. She wants to keep North Carolina's students engaged, in school and graduating on time. Statewide, for the 2006-07...Published: Sep 25, 2007 1:59 PM Full Story
Water use decreases in Goldsboro
Mandatory water conservation has been underway for a week in Goldsboro, and city residents, in general, must be heeding the measures because consumption is down. In the last three days, city officials said that water consumption has reduced by a...Published: Sep 25, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
UAW strike won't have big effect here
Local automotive industry officials are not expecting the first nationwide strike against General Motors Corp. in more than 35 years to have much of an impact in Wayne County. They explained that at least in the short term, none of...Published: Sep 25, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Fremont saves its library, for now
FREMONT -- The Town of Fremont wants to keep its library -- and more than $80,000 in donations and stocks was enough to do it, at least temporarily. Wayne County Library Executive Director Jane Rustin said the library's Board of...Published: Sep 25, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Scholarship established
A scholarship has been established to honor the memory of Loree M. Durham, who passed away December 25, 2006. Mrs. Durham, a resident of the Elroy Community, was a retired educator with the Wayne County Public Schools. The annual scholarship...Published: Sep 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, September 24, 2007
Two-vehicle accident
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Wayne County EMS and other responders assist a driver at the scene of this motorcycle crash that was part of a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of N.C. 55 East and N.C. 403 about five miles east...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:21 PM Full Story
Two die in motorcycle crash
Two people are dead today after their Honda motorcycle was struck by a 1999 Ford Explorer on N.C. 55 at about 5:45 p.m., Sunday, about four miles east of Mount Olive. The couple, whose names were not released by the...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:17 PM Full Story
Search ends in arrest of 16-year-old
A Goldsboro area teen accused of a violent early Sunday morning break-in spree is in custody, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Christin Ray Godette, 16, Forest Knolls Road, is accused of five break-ins and attempted break-ins within a half-square...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:13 PM Full Story
Last of town hall meetings is set for Tuesday
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners will host the last of six town hall meetings Tuesday at Charles B. Aycock High School. The format of the meeting, which will run from 6 to 8 p.m., is expected to be much...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:09 PM Full Story
Early care key to health for babies, nurses say
Infant mortality rates in Wayne County have dropped significantly in recent years, prompting the Health Department to focus on ways to maintain the trend. Historically, the issue has been a problem for the county, Health Director James Roosen said. In...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:04 PM Full Story
Local graduate takes over MO chamber job
MOUNT OLIVE -- Tyler Barwick brings the same bright smile to Center Street every morning. You would, too, if you had just landed the job of your dreams, she said. The Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce has hired a new...Published: Sep 24, 2007 2:01 PM Full Story
Mount Olive sisters say they are ready for the county fair ... again
MOUNTOLIVE -- There is only a little less than a week before the opening of the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. And for most children, that means dreams of cotton candy and Ferris wheels. But that's not all the annual event...Published: Sep 24, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Davis honored by state employees organization
Carolyn Davis, chairman of District 60 of the State Employees Association of North Carolina, received the District of the Year Award at the organization's annual convention held in Greensboro. She was recognized for her hard work and accomplishments for association...Published: Sep 24, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Medicare seminar
The Medicare seminar hosted by Wayne County Services on Aging will be held at the Wayne County Agricultural Center at the corner of Chestnut and George streets, from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday....Published: Sep 24, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Correction
The headline on the Business Page story Sunday about Cuts-4-Muttz grooming salon was spelled incorrectly, and the old telephone number was included. The new number is 759-4001....Published: Sep 24, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Architect plans to preserve history of old city train depot
As architect David Gall walked around Union Station in his yellow hard hat and boots this week, a few pieces of the antique building caught his eye. They weren't items that most people would get excited over -- clay tiles...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:12 AM Full Story
County not likely to discuss school facilities till October
Despite earlier indications by Wayne County Manager Lee Smith that he and his staff would have a school facilities funding proposal ready by the end of September, no such discussion was held by the commissioners at their second meeting...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:10 AM Full Story
Gaylor honored by downtown development group
Charlie Gaylor has many accomplishments under his belt -- attending law school, helping to restore the historic city hall and helping get Union Station back on the map. Friday night, he got added one more line to his resume. Gaylor...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Seymour Johnson ceremony honors POWs and MIAs
Sam Johnson can still smell the musty floors of a Vietnam prison cell he called home for nearly seven years. He relives the torture -- the day an enemy soldier pulled his arm back until it snapped, the beatings and...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:07 AM Full Story
Eureka figures payments but still hunts funding
EUREKA -- The $160,000 sewer debt shared by this town of about 150 people will get paid in $40,000 installments over two years, officials said. They just are not exactly sure how they will accomplish that goal. The installments total...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Dropout rate topic of public meeting
A mother pleaded with lawmakers Saturday to fund a program that would motivate her dropout son to go back to school. "Please, I do not want this program to fall," Tridecia Campbell told State Reps. Louis Pate of Wayne County...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
Cleanup begins at McCall's in Clayton
CLAYTON -- Town resident Amanda Lowder's next wait shift at McCall's Bar-B-Que and Seafood restaurant was scheduled for 5 p.m. Friday. Five hours before that shift started, the 22-year-old Johnston Community College student watched firefighters and police work to...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
Minority teachers honored at Imani celebration
Goldsboro High School's first minority teachers took a place of honor on the Wall of Firsts Friday during the fourth annual Imani Celebration at the Greenleaf Vision of Faith Community Center on William Street. Officials of the Rebuilding Broken Places...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Anderson wants commissioners to beef up agendas
A member of the Wayne County Commission protested a trend toward brief meeting agendas at the group's most recent meeting. "In the last few years, our agendas are getting shorter and shorter," county Commissioner Andy Anderson said. "There's lots of...Published: Sep 23, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, September 21, 2007
Mount Olive Chief starts work
News-Argus/Bobby Williams New Mount Olive police Chief Ralph Schroeder answers a radio call. Schroeder, a former Seymour Johnson Air Force Base airman, was recently named to the post full-time after serving as acting chief after the departure of Emmett...Published: Sep 21, 2007 2:10 PM Full Story
Officials don't think Duplin will get landing field nod
Local officials don't think it's likely to be selected, but the Angola Bay game lands, which straddle southern Duplin County and northern Pender County, are on a new list of potential sites being considered by the Navy for its outlying...Published: Sep 21, 2007 2:06 PM Full Story
Plane crashes into Clayton McCalls
A small single-engine plane crashed into McCall’s Bar-B-Que & Seafood Restaurant on U.S. 70 in downtown Clayton today at about 10 a.m. — an hour before the lunch rush was to start. Co-owner Randy McCall said there were only...Published: Sep 21, 2007 2:03 PM Full Story
New job, same duty: Mount Olive chief starts work
MOUNT OLIVE -- Ralph Schroeder might have left Wayne County in the late 1970s had a local woman not "stolen" his heart. He would have moved from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base back to his Ohio hometown. He would not...Published: Sep 21, 2007 1:59 PM Full Story
Volunteers spent their week busy with caring
Using everything from paint to puppies, Wayne County volunteers rolled up their sleeves and opened their wallets this week to make their community a better place as part of the United Way and Volunteer Wayne/RSVP Days of Caring event. One...Published: Sep 21, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Summit on area youths set for next weekend
Smart Choices for Youth, Inc. and Wayne County Public Schools are joining forces to sponsor a Youth Violence Awareness Summit on Sept. 29 at Goldsboro High School. The event will run from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will feature...Published: Sep 21, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Chili Cook-Off to benefit Soup Kitchen gearing up
Preparations for the Chili Cook-Off to raise money for the Community Soup Kitchen are advancing, with a number of teams already entered and getting their ingredients ready for a "hot time in the old town" Saturday. The Red Menace, Hoppin'...Published: Sep 21, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
Public record
Windows shot out Police report vehicles belonging to the city of Goldsboro had windows shot out with an unknown weapon. The front passenger window of a 1992 Ford Taurus had its window shattered, causing $200 in damage, city employee Marion...Published: Sep 21, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Not sure about Goldsboro rules for water conservation?
The continued drought forced the Goldsboro City Council to impose mandatory water restrictions this week. Despite several inches of rain over the weekend, water supplies remain at a critical low. Public Utilities Director Karen Brashear said the current drought is...Published: Sep 20, 2007 2:13 PM Full Story
Library board asks commissioners to consider expanding Wayne system
The Wayne County Public Library Board wants bigger libraries and the money needed to run them. Library Trustees Board Chairman Cathy Moran presented a long-range plan to county commissioners on Tuesday, with hopes that they will find a way to...Published: Sep 20, 2007 2:08 PM Full Story
Marshals capture murder suspect
Federal marshals took custody of a Goldsboro murder suspect in Louisville, Ky., Wednesday morning after an investigator here tipped them off, authorities said. The U.S. Marshals Service arrested Dennis "Crazy Jeff" Cleveland Young, 25, without incident, most likely at the...Published: Sep 20, 2007 2:04 PM Full Story
Victim, 45, identified; teen dies in crash
Investigators released the name of a man killed in a motorcycle accident Wednesday morning on U.S. 13 South. Thomas Lester Brantley, 45, of Fayetteville died instantly when his motorcycle was struck by a van trying to pass a 10-wheel tractor-trailer,...Published: Sep 20, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
ECU professor talks about Hispanic immigration to Goldsboro Rotary Club
Immigration expert and East Carolina University anthropology professor David Griffith doesn't think the flow of immigrants into the United States, and into southeastern North Carolina in particular, is going to slow anytime soon. Between the 1990 and the 2000 censuses,...Published: Sep 20, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
Health Department to increase two fees for vaccines
The Board of Health approved slight fee increases for two vaccine services Wednesday, and learned about plans to update the Health Department's computer system in the coming year. Health Director James Roosen also announced the receipt of three grants and...Published: Sep 20, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Bobby Herron, who works for Floorpro of Louisville, Ky., reported that a black man, about 6-feet tall and 180 pounds, knocked on his door around 6 a.m. on Tuesday at motel at 801 East U.S. 70 bypass. Herron...Published: Sep 20, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Teacher mini-grant deadline is October 1
The deadline for teachers to submit mini-grant applications to the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee is Monday, Oct. 1. The maximum amount for each mini-grant is $500. Grant applications are available on-line at www.waynecountypublicschools.org or at www.waynecountychamber.com. All...Published: Sep 20, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Junior Leadership application deadline Monday
Monday is the deadline for applying for the Junior Leadership Wayne County program. The program is open to high school juniors who have demonstrated leadership potential and want to learn more about Wayne County. Applications are available at all high...Published: Sep 20, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Building blitz
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Jesse Cox, right, nails in a beam for the roof of a new Habitat for Humanity Days of Caring Mini Blitz Build house at 1305 Franklin Court as Bob Pleasants, left, looks over the existing support beams....Published: Sep 19, 2007 2:01 PM Full Story
One dies in crash
GRANTHAM -- A man died after his motorcycle collided with a satellite television van on U.S. 13 around 7 a.m. today, authorities said. Highway Patrol Trooper B. Wiggs, investigating the scene, said a Harley Davidson collided with a Direct TV...Published: Sep 19, 2007 1:58 PM Full Story
Housing market is healthier in Wayne
Nationwide, the housing market might be in the throes of a hard slowdown, but realty companies and mortgage offices aren't seeing the same effects in Wayne County. In fact, they say, the local market is actually in pretty solid shape....Published: Sep 19, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Neighbors talk to city officials
Jamela Mooltrey wants her children to be safe when they are walking to school. "I am a mother of seven, and my children do walk to school on occasion," she said at Tuesday night's neighborhood meeting sponsored by the Goldsboro...Published: Sep 19, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Owners waiting for decision on what to do with Days Inn
More than a month after a tornado-like wind storm left the Days Inn in shambles, city officials are no closer to knowing what is going to be done with the now-condemned structure. The hotel's roof is still half-gone, with insulation...Published: Sep 19, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Benefit to raise money for fight against Spinal Muscular Atrophy
A radio broadcast to raise money to fight Spinal Muscular Atrophy will be held Friday from 4-6 p.m. by Jerry Wayne of Oldies 107.9 at Frema Motors. The benefit is being sponsored in honor of Haley Mitchell, who suffers from...Published: Sep 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Sprucing up
News-Argus/Greg Sousa The old Goldsboro City Hall is seen this morning. Workers with Daniels and Daniels Construction Co. expect the project to be completed by February. For more information see Renovations to historic City Hall still on schedule, officials...Published: Sep 18, 2007 2:15 PM Full Story
Failed flood control unit costing Goldsboro millions of gallons
Goldsboro's water worries could soon be reduced. Although there is little rain in the immediate forecast, city officials learned Monday night that there might be a way to retrieve 38 million gallons of water daily that is currently bypassing the...Published: Sep 18, 2007 2:11 PM Full Story
Renovations to historic City Hall still on schedule, officials say
Nearly five months away from estimated completion, the $4 million renovation of Goldsboro's historic City Hall has come a long way toward restoring the building to its original shape. But workers still have a ways to go. City officials say...Published: Sep 18, 2007 2:07 PM Full Story
Reservist is Raleigh policeman
RALEIGH -- An alleged armed robber just broke 100 mph along I-40 West near the Capitol. As he weaves in and out of traffic, the man has no idea that behind the blue lights flashing in his rearview mirror sits...Published: Sep 18, 2007 2:03 PM Full Story
Pikeville looking for help with new town hall work
PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville Board of Commissioners is ready to settle on a new town hall location -- as long as board members can find somebody to help pay for it. The old BB&T building on Main Street will serve...Published: Sep 18, 2007 1:58 PM Full Story
Public record
Drug arrests The Wayne County Sheriff's Department reported a number of drug-related arrests between Wednesday and Friday of last week. *Two Mount Olive men were arrested Friday last week after a drug investigation in the area of Walnut and Bright...Published: Sep 18, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Autism program Thursday at library
The Wayne County Public Library will feature a program on autism by Anne Barnhill Thursday at 7 p.m. in the main branch on Ash Street. Mrs. Barnhill has written a book, "At Home in the Land of Oz: Autism, My...Published: Sep 18, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Imani celebration Friday
Rebuilding Broken Places CDC will observe its 4th Annual Imani Celebration and Wall of First induction Friday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. at the Greenleaf Vision of Faith Community Center at 2105 N. William St. Events leading up to the...Published: Sep 18, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
Correction
The Mount Olive College exhibition of prints by Jacques Hnizdovsky opens Tuesday, Sept. 25, not tonight as stated in Sunday's News-Argus. The opening reception will be held in the Teresa Pelt Grubbs Art Gallery in Laughinghouse Hall from 4 until...Published: Sep 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, September 17, 2007
Up early to start days of caring
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Wayne County Public Library children’s librarian Shorlette Ammons-Stephens, left, and Assistant Director Donna Phillips work in the library’s flower and vegetable garden this morning as part of the Days of Caring campaign. For more information see United...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
United Way, Volunteer Wayne kick off week encouraging caring
The Wayne County Public Library is no longer just an indoor spot to read books. There is a community garden with a bench -- a perfect location for reading or eating lunch on a sunny afternoon. But fall has set...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
City man will face charges in murder
MOUNTOLIVE -- Five days after Tamorris Njai Raynor, 34, was gunned down in his front yard in Mount Olive, Windsor Devone Ingram, 20, turned himself in to the Mount Olive Police Department. Occurring last Monday afternoon at 105 S. Kornegay...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials on lookout for drugs in schools
Wayne County Public Schools is stepping up efforts to help create safe and drug-free schools, officials say. In recent years, safety measures have been revamped and updated regularly -- expanding staff training and affiliation with such local agencies as the...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Chamber is now taking mini-grant applications
Educational mini-grants up to $500 are available for area teachers through the Wayne Charitable Partnership of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee. This will be the only time the mini-grants will be offered for the 2007-08 school year....Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
MOC professor paces his races, and life
David Rendall, a business professor at Mount Olive College, admits he's not an especially fast runner. His approach to the sport might be likened to his approach to life -- it's all about the pacing. He took up running three...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Pikeville resident asks about muskrat trapping
PIKEVILLE -- Ethelene Durham has a common problem. But the muskrats inhabiting a ditch beside her home scare the 81-year-old Parks Drive resident. "Oh, they're as big as my cat," Mrs. Durham said. "You know, they're frightful-looking. I'm just concerned...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Business seminars scheduled
The Business and Industry Center of Wayne Community College has scheduled a series of free seminars to prepare the business person to meet the ever increasing challenges facing small business. The seminars include: *Start and Grow Your Business with Expert...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wayne County commissioners meet Tuesday
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners isn't expected to take any action, but nonetheless, members will be hearing from public library Director Jane Rustin about her facility and operating needs at their Tuesday meeting. "We're looking at a larger library...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Sexual assault A 25-year-old Goldsboro-area woman was sexually assuaulted after a man forced his way into her home Sunday evening, authorities say. Around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, lawmen were called to a residence near the Hickory Hills subdivision off of Dallas...Published: Sep 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Local officials moving water conservation from voluntary to mandatory
No more glasses of water while you review the menu at local restaurants. No more baths or weekend car washes in the driveway. And no more nightly attempts to keep your lawn green with the sprinkler. Or it will cost...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:10 AM Full Story
Numbers down for Wayne County schools
Enrollment numbers for Wayne County Public Schools’ first 10 days of classes dropped slightly below the same measure last year. The greatest amount of growth occurred in the elementary grades, said Robert Yancey, the district’s lead teacher for NCWise...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Big trucks could be banned from new U.S. 117 bypass
The U.S. 117 bypass from Goldsboro to Wilson was supposed to be an economic boon for Wayne County. It was supposed to be a faster route for commuters headed to Raleigh, as well as for trucks headed north on...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:08 AM Full Story
Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District customers concerned about bills
By MATTHEW WHITTLE News-Argus Staff Writer As residents in the Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District finish receiving and paying their water bills this month, board members are expecting an unusually full house for their Sept. 20 meeting. The reason: Unusually high...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Bull riding coming back to Wayne fair this year
By ANESSA MYERS News-Argus Staff Writer Eight seconds -- that's how long the rider has to stay on top. A mile a minute -- that's how fast the rider's heart rate is. An hour and a half -- that's...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
Suspect in murder identified
Goldsboro police have identified a suspect in Monday's murder of 21-year-old Rahkeen Jeffery. Jeffery, who was from New Jersey, was found injured at about 9:30 p.m. Monday at the basketball courts in the Courtyard Circle apartment complex on South...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
Fall Festival held at research farm
On average, the food most people in Wayne County will sit down to eat tonight, will have traveled about 1,500 miles to reach their plates. At the Center for Environmental Farming Systems at Cherry Research Farm on Saturday, though,...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
City Council to meet Monday
Goldsboro City Council is expected to hold four public hearings and to condemn four dilapidated buildings at its Monday night meeting. Two of the public hearings are zoning requests. The first public hearing will be held on a change in...Published: Sep 16, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, September 14, 2007
Rocketeers deploy - the 336th heads for Southwest Asia
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Cassandra Hopkins waves goodbye to her husband, Capt. Ben Hopkins, as members of the 336th Rocketeers deploy to Iraq in support of the global war on terror from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base early this morning. For...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:23 PM Full Story
SJAFB F-15's head to war
To passersby, it might have resembled a field party -- a crowd of 100-plus wide awake at 2 a.m., dancing to the sound of heavy metal tracks blaring out of tall speakers. And despite the sadness that often accompanies deployment,...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:18 PM Full Story
Dr. Owens will be transfered
A Cherry Hospital doctor charged in 1989 with taking indecent liberties with a child will now be assigned a job working primarily with adult males. Dr. Robert C. Owens, 53, of Hardingwood Drive, had been Cherry's acting medical director until...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:13 PM Full Story
Reul Inc. will buy division, add 50 new jobs
Reul Inc. announced Thursday that it will expand its Goldsboro facility, creating 50 new jobs and investing $2 million in the community over the next three years. As part of its expansion, the company also is buying the Traction Power...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:09 PM Full Story
Days of Caring kickoff
Emily Peacock didn't know why she had been singled out to speak at a community service event. And, like most volunteers, she was humbled by the opportunity. Mrs. Peacock was the speaker at the 14th annual Days of Caring kickoff...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
Red Cross chapter recognizes county volunteers at luncheon
Wes Waller received the Mary Norwood Volunteer of the Year Award for the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross at its recognition luncheon Thursday. Waller has been active with the Red Cross for more than 20 years, serving...Published: Sep 14, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
Suspect sought in Mount Olive murder
Mount Olive Police have a suspect in the Monday murder of an East Kornegay Street resident, authorities said. Police also identified another suspect involved in a shooting on Saturday. Windsor Devone Ingram, 20, is wanted in the murder of Tamorris...Published: Sep 14, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
WCC landscaping class starts September 18
Wayne Community College Continuing Education will offer a landscaping class for homeowners beginning Sept. 18 and running through mid-December. The class will cover plant identification and selection, and home landscape design, and will include home visits. All materials are provided....Published: Sep 14, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Newspaper staffers win big in lottery
Five members of the News-Argus staff came within an eyelash of becoming millionaires this week when they were one number away from a multi-million dollar win in the state lottery. They did, however, come away with $40,000 altogether. One more...Published: Sep 14, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
High-tech biology grant helping students at WCC
Wayne Community College students are taking advantage of a high tech biology classroom this fall, made possible through a $44,668 state Community College System BioNetwork grant. Funding paid for multimedia equipment that will be used for the college's biology courses...Published: Sep 14, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
State Fair entry deadline Monday
RALEIGH -- Monday is the deadline for submitting many entries to the North Carolina State Fair. More than $605,000 in premium money will be distributed to winners. The fair offers competion in 41 departments featuring thousands of categories, including agronomy,...Published: Sep 14, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Cherry faces scrutiny
News-Argus file photo The Woodard Building at Cherry Hospital houses the geriatric admissions and nursing facility. State officials recently visited Cherry, a 284-bed facility that serves 33 eastern counties in the state, spending three days there investigating complaints about...Published: Sep 13, 2007 2:11 PM Full Story
More called to duty
James Mejias is ready for a fight. So when he went through the deployment line with other members of the 4th Fighter Wing's Equipment Maintenance Squadron Wednesday, there was no fear in his eyes -- just excitement. The 25-year-old was...Published: Sep 13, 2007 2:08 PM Full Story
Senator defends incentive package
For state Sen. John Kerr, D-Wayne, one simple fact made his decision to vote for the legislature's compromise incentive package a little bit easier Tuesday -- more than 300 of his constituents work at the Bridgestone Firestone plant in Wilson....Published: Sep 13, 2007 2:04 PM Full Story
Officials give hospital list of violations to fix
Cherry Hospital's certification and federal funding status were placed in "immediate jeopardy" this week after several complaints prompted a state investigation into practices at the hospital. Cherry has until Sept. 30 to comply with recommendations, which include staff retraining, said...Published: Sep 13, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
EWHS student injured after gun goes off
A 14-year-old Eastern Wayne High School student was shot in the arm today after he tripped in a ditch on an early morning hunting trip, authorities said. A shotgun round took "a pretty good chunk" out of Jonathan Carter's left...Published: Sep 13, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
N.C. rail director talks about future
To Patrick Simmons, director of the state Department of Transportation's Rail Division, the purchase of Goldsboro's Union Station was one of the first steps in an effort to improve rail service across eastern North Carolina. "Goldsboro is a way station...Published: Sep 13, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Faison Market Day Saturday
FAISON - The town of Faison will celebrate its farming heritage Saturday with its annual Market Day celebration. The event will pay tribute to the late Bryant Martin, who was the first manager of the town's produce market and who...Published: Sep 13, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Library survey being held
The Wayne County Public Library is conducting a survey of patrons seeking input on the services and materials offered. Surveys are available to the public in all the library branches in Goldsboro, Mount Olive, Seven Springs, Pikeville and Fremont. The...Published: Sep 13, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
Public record
Police warn of scam Goldsboro police say they're investigating a check cashing scam affecting several city residents. The scam involves someone mailing the victim a check or money order for a substantial amount of money, usually $980, police said. The...Published: Sep 13, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Wayne Memorial Hospital to increase rates by 8.5 percent
Wayne Memorial Hospital's budget for 2008 will increase by $8 million, a 4.5 percent increase, officials announced this week. The proposed rate increase recommended for patient bills is 8.5 percent. The $188 million expense budget was put before the board...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Three men killed in Duplin wreck identified
A single vehicle accident that resulted in the deaths of three men in Duplin County Monday is still under investigation authorities say. So far, State Trooper A.B. Duff said, no charges have been filed in the wreck that occurred at...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials look for someone to charge in 18-year-old crime
It was an unusual case: Dwayne Allen Dail's DNA exonerated him in August, letting him walk out of a Wayne County courtroom free. All that is left to do now is to figure out who really did rape a 12-year-old...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
'Days of Caring' begins Friday at courthouse
Friday will kick off the 14th Annual Days of Caring across Wayne County. The week-long campaign will begin with a ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on the steps of the county courthouse. Jimmie Ford, this year's United Way campaign chairman, will...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Northern Wayne economic study released
PIKEVILLE -- Long feeling ignored and overlooked by the rest of the county, residents and officials from Fremont, Pikeville and Eureka are hoping that by banding together, they can bring not only some attention to northern Wayne County, but also...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
225 acres in Duplin burned
An illegal burn is being investigated as the potential cause of a Duplin County wildfire that burned 225 acres Tuesday afternoon. Beginning at about 4 p.m., more than 200 firefighters from 20 units from Duplin, Wayne and Sampson counties responded...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Fremont, Pikeville, Eureka urged to work together
PIKEVILLE -- Told that in order to grow and create economic development opportunities for themselves, Fremont, Pikeville and Eureka are going to have to work together, town officials and residents seemed eager to get started Tuesday night after hearing the...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Two firefighters injured in Indian Springs house fire
INDIAN SPRINGS -- Two firefighters sustained minor injuries Tuesday afternoon fighting a fire that destroyed a couple's Indian Springs home, authorities say. Homeowners Steven and Rebecca Willis, of 104 Jordan Elizabeth Court, weren't home at the time of the fire,...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Shooting victim is identified
Police say they have identified a 21-year-old man found dead of gunfire on Monday night in the Courtyard Circle apartment complex. Goldsboro Police Investigator Dave Cloutier said murder victim Rakeem Jeffery, 21, was from New Jersey. Police have no suspects...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Free HIV testing Friday
A statewide public health campaign to encourage people to get tested for HIV will be coming to Wayne County on Friday evening. The free event, "Get Real, Get Tested," will be held Friday from 6 until 9 p.m. at the...Published: Sep 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Three die in north Duplin crash
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Three people were killed shortly after 6 p.m. in a one-vehicle accident on N.C. 111 South near its intersection with N.C. 903 in the Albertson community of Duplin County. Eight people were in the pickup, with five...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Man killed in Mount Olive shooting
MOUNT OLIVE -- A 34-year-old Mount Olive man died Monday afternoon from gunshot wounds he received in front of his aunt's home on Kornegay Street, police officials said. Tamorris Raynor is the town's third murder victim this year, said Chief...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro man dies in shooting Monday
Goldsboro police say they found an unidentified man mortally wounded by gunfire in a field near Courtyard Circle about 9:30 p.m. Monday. Police said they had tentatively identified the man, but had not yet notified the victim's next of kin,...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
School tobacco policy prompts debate
Wayne County Schools will comply with a state law making the school system tobacco-free by Aug. 1, 2008, but not before, several board of education members said Monday night. The tobacco-free policy, a legislative bill proposed to go into effect...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
N.C. Labor Commissioner talks fair
N.C. Commissioner of Labor Cherie Berry did not talk about being the first woman to hold her post. She did not talk about politics or minimum wage. She talked to the Goldsboro Kiwanis Club about fair rides during her lunch...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Not so fast, you cowboys...
MOUNT OLIVE -- Hold your horses -- or at least clean up after them. Well, maybe. Mount Olive Town Board members are still looking to create guidelines for horseback riding within the city limits, but tabled an ordinance Monday evening...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount Olive town board sets sights on fire truck
MOUNT OLIVE -- When three people drowned after their car crashed into a creek off N.C. 55 Sunday, members of the Mount Olive Fire Department rushed to the scene. But Fire Chief Steve Martin told members of the town board...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
WCPS lunch menu for September 17 though the 23
WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Lunch Menu Week of Sept. 17-21 Monday -- Breakfast: apple muffin; Lunch: pepperoni pizza, chicken salad w/crackers, green beans, corn on the cob, mixed fruit, orange Tuesday -- Breakfast: chicken biscuit; Lunch: turkey and noodles w/whole...Published: Sep 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, September 10, 2007
Car careens into river
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Wayne County Sheriff's Office dive team members Danny Edwards, left, and Jason Hill prepare to extract two victims from a car that was involved in a single-vehicle accident on N.C. Highway 55 East about one mile east...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:27 PM Full Story
Three drown after crash
A couple and the woman's 5-year-old son drowned after being submerged in their car off N.C. 55 East near Mount Olive on Sunday afternoon, authorities said. Trooper A.R. Fowler said he is not sure why Flora Velasquez, 47, of N.C....Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:24 PM Full Story
Schools change policy on head lice
News of head lice in a school used to cause a wave of panic -- and cleaning everything in sight, from family members' hair to linens and pets. While it might not create as much pandemonium these days, some perceptions...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:19 PM Full Story
City officials will meet with neighbors Sept. 18
Hilde Holloman is tired of trash. Fred Lomax is cautious of traffic. Mary Rhoe said she wants to see less "dropped drawers" of young Goldsboro citizens. These were just a few of the concerns voiced at the last city-sponsored neighborhood...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:16 PM Full Story
Local paddlers will soon have a better way to hit water trails
With currents flowing only one direction -- toward the coast -- and usually within defined banks, it's tough to get lost on any of Wayne County's 74 miles of navigable waterways. But Pikeville resident Tom Potter doesn't just want...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:11 PM Full Story
Storm chaser: Get prepared now
Storm-chasing Eddy Weiss thinks there is a connection between the number of Wal-Marts and the amount of stocked food in country pantries. Weiss spoke to a Mount Olive College audience last week about making disaster-resistant communities. The convenience of 24-hour...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:07 PM Full Story
Duplin leaders plan community meetings on future
Having accomplished its primary goal this year of lowering the property tax rate, the Duplin County Board of Commissioners is hoping a series of upcoming strategic planning meetings will help give it a road map to follow for the...Published: Sep 10, 2007 2:02 PM Full Story
Northern Wayne economic assessment public meeting preview
Hoping to find a way to spur economic development in northern Wayne County, the Wayne County Development Alliance recently commissioned a community assessment study for Pikeville, Fremont, Eureka and the surrounding areas. The results of that study, which was...Published: Sep 10, 2007 1:58 PM Full Story
Instructor considered for state recognition
From staff reports Wayne Community Col-lege nursing instructor Patricia Ann Pfeiffer has been named one of five finalists for the 2007 N.C. Community College System R.J. Reynolds Excellence in Teaching Award. She had previously been named one of 10 instructors...Published: Sep 10, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Public record
Accident Goldsboro police charged a tractor trailer driver with a safe movement violation, and a passenger was treated for injuries after the truck driver bumped the vehicle and ended up pushing it 473 feet broadside Saturday afternoon on West Grantham...Published: Sep 10, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Business women's club seeking nominations
From staff reports MOUNT OLIVE -- The Wayne-Duplin Business and Professional Women's Club is accepting nominations for Career Woman of the Year. The deadline for nominations is Oct. 1, and on Oct. 4 at 6:15 p.m., the membership will vote...Published: Sep 10, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
Baseball exhibit will open Sept. 18
Local professional baseball players Hubert "Daddy" Wooten and Carl Long will speak next month about what it was like to play with the Negro League in the 1950s and '60s. The Oct. 6 event at the Wayne County Museum will...Published: Sep 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, September 9, 2007
2007 N.C. ABC scores categorize 32 schools
Rankings for the 32 Wayne County Public Schools have been made on the heels of the ABCs/AYP results, announced Thursday by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. As the annual test score composites are tallied, the status of each school...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:22 AM Full Story
Plans are under way for 2007 fair debut
Fair food and festivities are less than three weeks away -- and the rodeo is back on the ticket. Fried dough, funnel cakes, caramel apples, cotton candy and a full scale of family attractions will fill the schedule for the...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:21 AM Full Story
Baddour could be post office namesake
For Philip Baddour Sr., a man who spent all of his adult life working and serving in downtown Goldsboro, U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield is offering what those who knew him are calling a "fitting tribute" -- the potential naming of...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:20 AM Full Story
Farmers look for alternatives to keep cattle fed this winter
Come December, Johnny Weaver will be out of stored feed for the 18 cross-bred cows he raises in Kenly. But agronomists think there is still hope for herds of grazing livestock like Weaver's -- if local farmers turn to lower-quality...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:18 AM Full Story
WCC will host forum on environmental contracting
The N.C. Military Business Center and Wayne Community College are hosting an Environmental Contracting Forum Thursday. The forum will bring together representatives from military installations and federal and state agencies to discuss environmental products, procurement and sustainability issues. Military installations...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:17 AM Full Story
Museum's USO exhibit now has Johnny Grant photos
There is only one week left to remember the USO at the Wayne County Museum. The exhibit ends Sept. 17. The museum, which is located at 116 N. William St., was originally the Woman's Club building, which was rented out...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:15 AM Full Story
Golf tournament benefit planned for Kitty Askins
The annual Kitty Askins Golf Tournament will be Sept. 27 at the Walnut Creek Country Club. Proceeds will benefit the Kitty Askins expansion fund. The four-player superball event will have shotgun starts at 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., entry fees...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:14 AM Full Story
Festival set for this Saturday at Cherry Farm
Those who want to know a little more about farming will have their chance this weekend at the Center for Environmental Farming Systems' Fall Festival. The event, which is set for Saturday, will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:12 AM Full Story
Public record
Missing man found dead A man reported missing from Kinston was found dead of natural causes in a hotel room, police said. Goldsboro police were called to check on a room at the Irish Inn on Sunburst Drive, police said....Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:10 AM Full Story
Park group gets grant to help with trails
Goldsboro's Parks and Recreation Department is one step closer to having enough resources to complete plans to create a new park at Stoney Creek. The department recently received notification that the city has qualified for the Recreation Trails grant, which...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Habitat planning groundbreaking this week in city
Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne and First Baptist Church of Goldsboro will break ground Wednesday at 9 a.m. at 1305 Franklin Court. First Baptist Church of Goldsboro has been a strong advocate and supporter of Habitat since the affiliate began...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:07 AM Full Story
Girl Scout leader honored
Vivian Wharton of Goldsboro received the Girl Scout Silver Seagull Award from the Girl Scout Council of Coastal Carolina. A longtime supporter of Girl Scouting in the Wayne County area, Mrs. Wharton has played a key role in helping to...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Duplin County residents will be able to speak out on animal control policy
Beginning Monday, Duplin County residents will have their first chance to publicly air their feelings on the proposed new animal control ordinance, as the first of five meetings will be held at Rose Hill Town Square in Rose Hill at...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:04 AM Full Story
Drive under way for donated school supplies
SunCom Wireless at 225 N. Berkeley Blvd. will be collecting donations of school supplies for Wayne County elementary school children at the store through the end of September. Community members are asked to donate school supplies such as staples, tape...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
Chili cookoff to benefit soup kitchen
A chili cookoff, the Really Chili Challege, will be held Sept. 29 to raise money to help the Community Soup Kitchen. The competition will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the site of the Center Street Jams...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Boy Scouts to recruit at schools
Representatives from local Boy Scout units will be visiting Wayne County schools during the months of September and October to give boys an opportunity to join. Parents are invited to attend the special sign-up meetings. Meetings will be held as...Published: Sep 9, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, September 7, 2007
Chamber is offering tours of SJAFB
New to town? Always wanted to see what's actually behind the gates at the end of Berkeley Boulevard and Slocumb Street? Now is the time, as the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce prepares to begin offering free tours of Seymour...Published: Sep 7, 2007 2:03 PM Full Story
Eureka and Fremont working to solve sewer woes
Mary Dubberly fondly recalls cheaper sewer bills for Geddy's Cafe when she opened on Main Street in Eureka about five years ago. That was before sewer crises beset both Eureka and her nearby hometown of Fremont in northern Wayne County....Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:59 PM Full Story
Should small towns be in the sewer business at all?
Multi-million dollar projects to patch sewers in Fremont and Eureka are nearing completion, financed mostly by grant money. Eureka's project -- which cost about $1.3 million -- got funding from the Clean Water Management Trust Fund and the state's Rural...Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Schools again chief topic at meeting
The ever-present issues of education and school funding were once again front and center Thursday night as the Wayne County Board of Commissioners hosted its fifth town hall meeting, this time at Spring Creek High School. With the crowd slacking...Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
School supplies being sought
SunCom Wireless has joined with Wayne County Public Schools to supply needed learning materials for students and teachers. A supply drive will be held through the month of September at the business on North Berkeley Boulevard. The public is asked...Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
Officer, EMS worker resign
A Goldsboro police officer resigned from the department Thursday after being accused of assault in Lenoir County, the police chief said. Officer Rusty Ray Herring had been a police officer with Goldsboro police for 31/2 years, Chief Tim Bell said....Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
Public record
Thefts *Officials at Deacon Jones Nissan on West Grantham Street reported two vehicles stolen from the car lot. A Nissan Sentra and Pathfinder, both 2007 models, were reported missing. The estimated value of the two vehicles was set at $41,233....Published: Sep 7, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, September 6, 2007
They are ready to read
News-Argus/Nick Hiltunen Paige Cottle, 4, reads about Spot the dog at Mount Olive’s Steele Memorial Library. She was joined by her brother Jakob, 6, and their father, Christopher Cottle. For more information see Mount Olive wants a bigger branch...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools release AYP stats
Results are in for the state's testing measure, with 18 of the 32 schools in Wayne County making "expected growth," while eight achieved "high growth." The N.C. Department of Public Instruction released the report today for the 2006-07 ABCs/AYPs, which...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Still more talk likely on county comprehensive plan
Since May, Wayne County's Comprehensive Plan has received overwhelming support at a public forum, been approved by the county Planning Board and has now passed a county Board of Commissioners' public hearing without comment. But the commissioners still think there's...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive wants a bigger branch library
MOUNT OLIVE -- Could this town become known for book reading as well as pickles? To hear town Manager Charles Brown tell it, the answer is yes. Steele Memorial Library "is bursting at the seams," Brown told town commissioners in...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
United Way grant could help bring 211 service to county
Officials might soon have the means to create a 211 information system in Wayne County thanks to a United Way grant. The United Way of North Carolina received a $50,000 grant from Bank of America in late August designed to...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Pikeville will choose new town manager
PIKEVILLE -- Whatever the outcome of the November election, town leaders plan to discuss candidates to fill a vacant town manager position. The town commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the town hall to discuss applicants for the...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Storm system could bring rain to parched state
Forecasters with the National Weather Service in Raleigh say Wayne County and the rest of eastern North Carolina could get some relief from drought this weekend if a tropical weather system reaches the state. Only scattered showers have hit Wayne...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Goldsboro officer, Wayne employee face Lenoir charges
A Goldsboro police officer and a Wayne County employee face charges after Lenoir County residents reported a possibly alcohol-fueled melee in LaGrange, police say. Off-duty police officer Rusty Ray Herring, 36, of Hunter Street, is charged with breaking entering and...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount Olive airport expansion proceeding
MOUNT OLIVE -- The town of Mount Olive is in the process of aquiring land to allow it to expand its airport. Plans to extend the airport runways by 5,000 feet to accommodate larger private corporate jets have been on...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Leadership seminar September 11
A workshop on leadership will be sponsored by the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Sept. 11 from noon until 1 p.m. at the chamber office at 308 N. William St. Anna Ferrell, an employee assistance professional, will lead the seminar,...Published: Sep 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Theater closer to debut
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Work on the new Parmount Theater is progressing, city officials say. More than $580,000 in donations have come in to date, and businessman David Weil said construction is on budget and on time. Officials expect it to...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:26 PM Full Story
Grantham land buy for school gets OK
For three years the members of the Wayne County Board of Education have held an option on a 46-acre plot of land in the Grantham community. Their vision is for it to be the future home of a new Grantham...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:22 PM Full Story
Wings slated for new complex
Saucy, spicy, sweet -- Goldsboro is getting a new place to eat. A Buffalo Wild Wings Grill and Bar is expected to set up shop in Goldsboro in the Goldsboro Promenade at the former Litchfield Theater location. The restaurant will...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:18 PM Full Story
Officials target end of February for theater opening
David Weil is rarely more than a few feet away from the answers to all "the big questions" about the Paramount Theater. By the look of his office, you would think the reconstruction project is the only thing on the...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:14 PM Full Story
StageStruck building demolition gets approval
The Goldsboro Historic District Commission granted permission Tuesday to StageStruck Theater for Young People to demolish two old buildings behind the Paramount Theater and rebuild on the same site. The children's theater organization had to move to 110 N. James...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:11 PM Full Story
County holds town hall meeting
Both men went to the same meeting, but for one, Tuesday night provided some answers, while for the other, it was almost a waste of time. Concerned about the condition of the road running in front of his house, John...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:07 PM Full Story
Mount Olive swears in chief
MOUNT OLIVE -- Maj. Ralph Schroeder was officially sworn in as the new Mount Olive Police Chief this morning at the town hall by Mayor B.R. Huggins. With tears in his eyes, he accepted the position. Schroeder has served on...Published: Sep 5, 2007 2:02 PM Full Story
Another arrest made in home invasion
Wayne County Sheriff's investigators have arrested another suspect in the Aug. 31 home invasion in Dudley that ended in the death of one of the intruders. James Christopher Smith, 17, was arrested at noon Tuesday at Southern Wayne High School....Published: Sep 5, 2007 1:57 PM Full Story
Public record
Walker Insurance Group at 205 W. Ash St. reported the larceny of $6,474 in cash and checks. Police found no sign of forced entry. The money was last secure at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 31....Published: Sep 5, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Petrified tree found in Wayne, donated to Mount Olive College
MOUNT OLIVE -- A petrified tree dating back to the time of the dinosaurs has been donated to Mount Olive College. The tree was discovered during an open-pit mining operation at Mar Mac Aggregates, LLC, when MOC student Daniel Dolderer...Published: Sep 5, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Former trooper will get another day in court on DWI charge
Former State Trooper Darien Smith will get a new day in court. Smith, 32, appeared in court to answer a drunken driving charge on Aug. 20, but the case was dismissed because he was not personally served beforehand. Pitt County...Published: Sep 5, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Bad flooring could halt Pikeville town hall project
PIKEVILLE -- A rotten floor underneath carpets at the old BB&T branch here could mean Mayor Herbert Sieger's town hall hopes fall through. Town commission unanimously called for a work session on Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. before any more...Published: Sep 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Last day at the lake
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Monday was the last day of the swimming season at the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, and Christa Jenkins, 5, Cecelia Jenkins, 8, and Caroline Jenkins, 2, took advantage of a sunny Labor Day to enjoy...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Deputy crashes during chase
A high-speed chase Monday night ended in the arrest of a Kinston area man and minor injuries for a Wayne County Sheriff's deputy who helped join in the pursuit. The Wayne Sheriff's Office charged Jarvis Enrico Adams of Georgetown Road,...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County unemployment rate rises a bit
As more people enter the labor market, North Carolina's unemployment rate has slowly inched up, hitting 5 percent in July -- its highest point since September 2006. Last year at this time, the state's unemployment rate was 4.8 percent. Since...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Agency cites reasons behind denial of beer permit
Traffic, opposition from more than 400 residents and sheriff's coverage concerns are among eight reasons why the state alcohol commission recently rejected a permit for Club 55 in Seven Springs. Randy Mills, the owner of the Club 55 El Abuelo...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Charges dismissed against city cop in crash
Charges have been dropped against a city police officer accused in a hit-and-run accident that resulted in more than $1,000 in property damage. William Cassady, 44, a GPD crime scene technician, was accused of damaging a woman's car after he...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro police get new wheels
Goldsboro police recently got some help to better chase down crime -- literally. The department's new Segway Personal Transporter, a transportation machine that officers ride like they would a scooter, was an $8,000 gift from the Downtown Goldsboro Devel-opment Corp....Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Investigations The Goldsboro Police Department is investigating these reports: *Mick Worrells Jr. of South Slocumb Street said two men he does not know assaulted him Sunday around 10 p.m. at a Herman Street residence and broke his jaw. Both men...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
WCC online teacher education applications being accepted
Wayne Community College is accepting applications for its online teacher education program in the bachelor's degree cohort in special education. Applications for the East Carolina University Wachovia Partnership East Virtual Consortium are due by Oct. 1 for the session scheduled...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Students Honored for Hospital Work
Junior volunteers at Wayne Memorial Hospital were recognized for their service over the summer recently, with three given special awards. Donna Archer, director of volunteer services, said this year's group of high school students was among the best and brightest....Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Annexations among items on council's agenda for meeting
The Goldsboro City Council is expected to discuss the possible annexation of three properties into the city limits at tonight's meeting. The first property under consideration is located on the east side of Cuyler Best Road between New Hope Road...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wayne County Public Schools lunch menu week of Sept. 10-14
WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Lunch Menu Week of September 10-14 Monday -- Breakfast: blueberry muffin; Lunch: sausage pizza, baked corn, dog, garden peas, baked apples, pear halves, orange Tuesday -- Breakfast: cheese toast; Lunch: chicken stir fry w/rice and whole,...Published: Sep 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, September 3, 2007
His dream was just to work
Labor Day, a holiday devoted to the recognition of working people's contribution to society, holds special meaning for Silas Czeiner. The 23-year-old has spent the bulk of his life overcoming obstacles and dismissing his own limitations. He was born with...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Health inspection rules change
Health inspectors will now abide by a new state law that dictates how often food establishments are inspected during the year. For some food service businesses, that might mean fewer site visits, while others will continue to be inspected four...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
There's still time to choose a Days of Caring project
The days of borrowing a cup of sugar from your neighbor might seem old-fashioned, but the United of Way of Wayne County hopes lending a hand is still in vogue. The organization's 2007 Days of Caring will soon kick off...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Exchange student comes back to GHS
Esi Coleman Obeng-Darko returned to tour the halls of Goldsboro High School Tuesday after being gone for 28 years. The students seemed quieter, said Mrs. Obeng-Darko as she remembered being a teenager traveling from Ghana to live with Hughes and...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Man shot A Clayton resident told Goldsboro police his uncle was shot in a city parking lot Sunday. Samuel Devon Lee said he was waiting in a parking lot on George Street when a man pulled a rifle on his...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
WCC appoints two new vice presidents
Wayne Community College's trustees have approved two new vice presidents, completing the college's administrative cabinet. The two women, currently employed with the N.C. Community College System, are scheduled to start at the college on Oct. 1. Dr. Linda Nelms, the...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College celebrates first-ever summer graduation
Last Tuesday night represented a new dimension for Mount Olive College, holding its first-ever summer commencement, with 102 candidates from the five college locations. Dr. J. William Byrd, president, called the expanded opportunity a "direction consequence of the robust growth...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Jennings named MOC events coordinator
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive College has created a position to handling scheduling its growing list of activities. Sherry Jennings of Connecticut was recently hired to serve as event services coordinator, college officials announced. With the college booking an estimated...Published: Sep 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, September 2, 2007
County's water districts not running dry despite drought
Despite concerns by the city of Goldsboro about water usage levels, Wayne County's water districts aren't too worried yet. The difference, officials explained, is that the rural districts draw their water from deep wells. "The city pulls from surface...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Officials say Clayton bypass will help Wayne economy
The U.S. 70 bypass around Clayton is a year ahead of schedule, state transportation officials say -- and that might mean Wayne County will profit from it sooner. Although funding hasn't come yet for similar construction around Goldsboro, officials here...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Suspect charged in home invasion
One man is in custody, but more suspects are being sought in Friday's home invasion that left one of the alleged armed intruders dead. Kayloe Lemont Middleton, 25, of Mount Olive, was charged Friday with first-degree burglary and first-degree kidnapping....Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Goldsboro High teen works as congressional page
Teddy Howell knows all about overcoming obstacles. An honor student and active in many extra-curricular activities, he credits his family with showing him the way through a sometimes challenging growing up in Goldsboro. But even though the Olivia Lane resident...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Man killed in ATV accident
One U.S. serviceman was killed in four-wheeler accident Saturday at Busco Beach. The accident marks the second ATV accident since April, and the fifth fatal accident at Busco Beach on Bryan Boulevard in seven years. The serviceman, who appeared to...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Pair hope downtown gym project will stop youth violence
Steve Smith has his sights set on using fitness to battle the rash of juvenile violence in the community. All he needs is a little help. Smith, director and chief executive officer of Wayne County Enrichment and Fitness Center, said...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Commissioners to hear final commentss on comprehensive plan
Finally, after nearly two years of work, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners appears poised to approve the county's comprehensive plan, following a 9:15 a.m. public hearing Tuesday. It will be the last chance for residents to comment on...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Public record
Three passengers hurt on Royall Avenue A driver and three passengers in the other car, including a 3-year-old child, were injured in a collision around midnight Saturday on Royall Avenue. The driver, Kayla Lashawn Howard of East Walnut Street, and...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Voters have until Tuesday to vote for Caseys
Tuesday is the last day that people can vote online in the Oreo & Milk nationwide jingle contest in which Wayne area performers Daniel and Samantha Casey are finalists. People can vote once per day per email address. The Caseys,...Published: Sep 2, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story