Goldsboro News-Argus | News: May 2008 Archives

Jinnette Stands Down at SJAFB

News-Argus/Greg Sousa Lt. Col. James Jinnette, left, listens as 4th Fighter Wing Operations Group Commander Col. Eric Nelson bids him farewell. Jinnette relinquished command of the 335th Fighter Squadron this morning at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. During his...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story

Hometown boy ... done good

Friday morning's ceremony on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base was bittersweet for James Jinnette, as the Air Force lieutenant colonel saluted members of the 4th Fighter Wing's 335th Fighter Squadron one final time as their commander. It was not that...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story

Walnut Creek neighbors riled by farmer's anti-deer device

Charles Wade needed to chase the deer away from his young tobacco crop near the Wayne-Lenoir county line. His solution -- a propane-powered "scare away" canon that fires blanks at the wooded area along his field. It works, Wade said,...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story

Village officials tabling ETJ plan

Residents and landowners within a one-half mile radius outside the municipal limits of the Village of Walnut Creek likely won't see any movement toward the creation of an extraterritorial zone anytime soon. After holding a public hearing Wednesday night, attended...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story

Savings will help health department

Savings already on hand will cushion a financial blow dealt to the Health Department last week, officials say. County officials told department managers that the department will receive $400,000 less than requested in the 2008-09 budget. The department had asked...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story

Proposal could alter chicken plant rules

A bill that would increase inspections of working conditions in poultry plants has been introduced in the state Senate. The measure, SB 2104, is being sponsored by Sen. Daniel Clodfelter of Mecklenburg County. It calls for the state health director...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Soil and Water Board filing deadline July 7

The filing period for candidates for Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors for the November 4 general election will begin at noon June 9 at the Wayne County Board of Elections office. The filing period closes at noon...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Stoney Creek Park Alliance looking for help with small projects

As plans for Phase 1 of Stoney Creek Park are currently being prepared, the Stoney Creek Park Alliance is looking toward the future and asking for help. The alliance has established a wish list for items that are needed in...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Authorities worried about stolen meds

Two kinds of medication possibly stolen by juveniles sometime Thursday night or early today could be dangerous to them, county authorities said. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office said deputies don't know who stole Teresa Tipton's prescriptions for a nerve-pain medication...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Public record

Forgery reported Allison Duffield of Friendly Mart on KcKee Oil Company Road, Mount Olive reported that someone used fake identities on checks to obtain about $1,000 from the business, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. Copper theft A...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Johnston ag meeting scheduled

The next Johnston County Agribusiness Breakfast Meeting will be held on Friday, June 6, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Hatcher's Bridge Tree Farm at 1180 Shoeheel Road, Kenly. An educational tour will follow conducted by the Johnston County Cooperative Extension...

Published: May 30, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Public hearing at Walnut Creek

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber More than 300 people packed the Walnut Creek Country Club Wednesday night as the extraterritorial jurisdiction public hearing had to be moved from the town hall. Most were residents of neighboring subdivisions and the surrounding area who...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:42 PM Full Story

Law could demolish mobile eyesores

A bill under consideration in the General Assembly would provide money for counties to do away with abandoned mobile homes -- an issue that Wayne County officials say is not yet a major concern for the county. The measure would...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:36 PM Full Story

Police arrest three for murder

BENSON -- Johnston County Sheriff's Office deputies found a man dead in the Meadow community south of Benson on Wednesday, and authorities say a nearby neighbor, his girlfriend and her mother are responsible for his murder. All three -- Luis...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:29 PM Full Story

Walnut Creek officials hear objections to ETJ

WALNUT CREEK -- More than 300 people attended a public hearing regarding a proposed extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) held by the Village of Walnut Creek on Wednesday night, with both residents of the village and neighbors in the proposed area around...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:19 PM Full Story

Make up for holiday set for Saturday

Wayne County Public Schools will be in session on Saturday, a makeup day for the Memorial Day holiday on Monday. Parents are reminded that it is an early release day and that breakfast and lunch will be provided as usual....

Published: May 29, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

City planners discuss downtown ordinance

The Goldsboro Planning Commission approved eight items Tuesday night and denied four, including one that would change the Demolition by Neglect Ordinance. The current ordinance doesn't allow windows to be boarded up, but the proposed ordinance, which would be called...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:08 PM Full Story

Senior Center to offer chronic disease help

The Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging is teaming up with Wayne County Services on Aging to offer a chronic disease self-management program at the Wayne County Senior Center. The workshop, which is designed to empower people to take...

Published: May 29, 2008 2:04 PM Full Story

Health Department likely to update well restrictions

The Health Department will update its well restriction ordinance to comply with state rules being enacted July 1. The Board of Health is expected to vote on the move at its June 18 meeting, said Kevin Whitley, director of environmental...

Published: May 29, 2008 1:58 PM Full Story

Public record

Fire ruled accidental A minor fire Tuesday afternoon causing $100 in damages to two barns owned by Alice Crawford of Harding Drive was ruled accidental by authorities, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. Breaking and entering Donan Bernard...

Published: May 29, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story

Habitat for Humanity to hold informational meeting

Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne will hold an informational meeting for the public on Monday at 6 p.m. The meeting will be at WAGES at 601 Royall Avenue. People who are interested in learning how to qualify for Habitat home...

Published: May 29, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Goldsboro recycles

News-Argus/Greg Sousa James Lewis, left, Larry Dreighton, center, and Dennis Smith, right, seperate plastic, aluminum and cardboard recyclables on May 20. The crew plays an integral part in the recycling process for the city of Goldsboro. For more information...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Mental health employees picket Cherry Hospital

Concerned about unsafe working conditions that they say have gotten worse since the state began its mental health reforms in 2001, about 25 members of the union UE Local 150 took to the street in front of Cherry Hospital Tuesday...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Working to reduce our refuse footprint

James Lewis and his crew know everything there is to know about recycling, at least in Goldsboro. He, Dennis Smith, Jerry Artis and Larry Dreighton are just a few of the men in the orange, City-of-Goldsboro shirts that you may...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Morales murder investigation stalled

Evidence still waits to be processed in the murder of Silvia Morales, the mother of two who was found shot to death in March at her Fremont home. Detectives are mum, though, on what exactly still awaits processing at the...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

City aims to resolve Paramount legal issue

Told after the fact that they did not follow the proper procedures for the reconstruction of the Paramount Theatre, Goldsboro city officials are now hoping for a bailout by the state General Assembly. The local bill, which has already been...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

North Drive teacher's reading script published

A reading teacher at North Drive Elementary School has been published for the third time. Gregory Brown's third children's script published by an educational publishing company, featuring an election-based storyline. "The Great Rhyme Travel Machine Presents: African American Heroes," will...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Duplin County faces major budget cuts

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County commissioners have held true to their promise of no tax increase in their new $48 million general fund budget proposal, but it comes at a cost of four county job positions, deep cuts in department requests...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Public Record Wednesday 5-28

Charges The Wayne County Sheriff's Office reported these charges: *Kimberly Renee Anderson, 21, Center Street, Mount Olive, operate vehicle with no insurance, $500 bond. *Brandon Wayne Christian, 21, Arrington Bridge Road, misdemeanor larceny, no bond type or amount listed. *Joseph...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Man accused of stealing scrap metal

County authorities say a man accused of stealing a junked car and a pile of scrap metal from an elderly Seven Springs woman now faces charges. Joshua Paul Barnett, 18, Clifton Ridge Drive in Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Township, was jailed under...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Goldsboro to host Military Appreciation Day at Thursday's Center Street Jam

Downtown Goldsboro will swing to the sounds of Fatback & the Cadillacs on Thursday evening as the Downtown Jam series sponsored by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. resumes. The season's first concert two weeks ago was canceled because of rain,...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Exchange families sought

Fifteen area families are being sought to host French and Spanish students and two language teachers in June or July. Terra lingua/Terre des Langues, a unique and enriching program, allows people to experience a foreign culture and its people outside...

Published: May 28, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Memorial day ceremony

News-Argus/Greg Sousa Bill Graham, left, commander for Chapter 45 Disabled American Veterans, Barbara Newman, Alma Jenkins and her son, Ray Jenkins, listen to Col. Steve Kwast, commander of the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, during...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:31 PM Full Story

Heroes not forgotten

Mike Burris was still wiping tears from his eyes as he approached the lectern on a Wayne Community College stage Monday morning. "Excuse me," he said. "Let me get myself together here." But for those seated inside Moffat Auditorium, there...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:26 PM Full Story

Lake now low on list for Stoney Creek Park

The biggest, and most controversial, item proposed for Stoney Creek Park, a lake, is not included in the latest set of plans. The public doesn't seem to see it as a top priority, Goldsboro Parks and Recreation Director Sonya Shaw...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:21 PM Full Story

Duplin wants to attach wages to collect residents' debt

KENANSVILLE -- People who use Duplin County government services and then fail to pay for them could find themselves facing wage garnishment. A bill has been introduced in the N.C. Senate that would give the county power to help it...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:16 PM Full Story

Did little Spencer's story touch your heart?

If you were touched by Sunday's story about 2-year-old Spencer Rollins and his family and would like to donate to the Spencer Rollins Fund, donations may be made to the: Spencer Rollins Fund, P.O. Box 1107, Goldsboro, N.C. 27533. Those...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:11 PM Full Story

Boys and Girls Club set to host midnight basketball tournament Saturday night

The battle of the sexes will play itself out during midnight basketball at the Boys & Girls Club. The Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County's Paley Unit on Royall Avenue is hosting the Midnight Slam Basketball Tournament from 10...

Published: May 27, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story

Wayne Health Department named best in the east

The Wayne County Health Department was recently named Public Health Department of the Year by the N.C. Public Health Association eastern district, which encompasses 53 counties. In addition, two other honors were also presented. Karen Creech from the laboratory was...

Published: May 27, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story

Children's Festival Saturday

A Children's Festival for families of young children will be held on Saturday at Herman Park and the Wayne County Public Library from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Promoting the Born Learning campaign, the event is funded through United Way...

Published: May 27, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Remembering those who gave all

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Vietnam veteran Royce Brock of Beautancus holds Ricky Lupper during a Memorial Day ceremony held Sunday at Maplewood Cemetery in Mount Olive. The ceremony was sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9959. Wayne County paused over...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Gas prices don't stop alumni from filling hotels

High gas prices could not keep Dillard-Goldsboro Alumni and Friends and Central alumni from celebrating their homecomings this Memorial Day weekend. The four major hotels in Goldsboro reported full or almost full houses and a total of almost 350 guests...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Officials hope to get riders thinking about bus travel

Wayne County officials are hopeful that an advertising campaign by the Goldsboro-Wayne Transporta-tion Authority, complete with its own bumper sticker and slogan and radio promotions, will encourage more people to take advantage of the system, especially with gas prices hovering...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Chamber plans two events for businesses

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce has two events planned in June to try to connect local businesses to customers. The chamber will have its annual Expo from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 2 at the Goldsboro Country Club....

Published: May 26, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Million Step March expected to reach Mount Olive Tuesday

The Million Step March that has traveled more than 450 miles of its 600-mile journey across the state will reach Mount Olive College on Tuesday, with a wellness rally planned from 3-6 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to take...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Bus drivers take honors

Two Wayne County Public Schools' bus drivers recently were top finishers in the N.C. School Bus ROADeo competition in Raleigh. Arthur Herring, a driver for the cental attendance schools, placed seventh, and James Shepard, a driver at Tommy's Road Elementary,...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Dale Carnegie course

The Wayne County Chamber of commerce is pleased to announce that the world famous Dale Carnegie Course is once again forming in the Goldsboro area. The course runs for 12 weeks, one night per week. A no-obligation orientation/explanation session will...

Published: May 26, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Bypass work could begin in fall

Lutabelle Lawrence, 87, remembers how, as a little girl growing up in the Rosewood community, she watched as what is now U.S. 70 was first paved as a single road. "You'd better believe I have seen a lot of...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story

Solid waste disposal fees going up in county soon

A $7 increase in the solid waste tipping fee at the county landfill and a $20 increase in the fee charged county residents for use of convenience centers will be recommended in Wayne County's budget proposal for fiscal 2008-09....

Published: May 25, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story

Spencer's battle

DURHAM — Somewhere inside the Duke Hospital Intensive Care Unit, Spencer Rollins is fighting — his parents lost in prayer at his bedside. But the young family is not supposed to be there. Doctors were preparing the 2-year-old’s discharge...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Wayne Memorial Hospital to go completely smoke-free July 1

Come July 1, Wayne Memorial Hospital will enforce a tobacco-free policy that applies to everyone -- employees, physicians, vendors, patients and visitors. More than 75 percent of acute care hospitals in North Carolina have implemented similar policies. Wayne Memorial will...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Miss Aycock pageant Saturday

The 43rd annual Miss Charles B. Aycock High School Pageant will be held Saturday, May 29, 2008 at 7 pm at the C.B. Aycock High School gymtorium. Admission is $5 with no advanced tickets tol be sold. This year's theme...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Duplin runoff might not determine winner

KENANSVILLE -- Based on recent history, not having any opponent in the November general election does not necessarily mean that a candidate in Duplin County can count on being elected. Currently there are several Duplin County candidates for the...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Hundreds celebrate Dillard-Goldsboro homecoming

The original Dillard High School first opened its doors on West Elm Street in 1923 -- a merging of private "colored" schools into one facility. But not until the 1966 school year did Dillard's faculty become integrated, a result...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Central alumni let the good times roll

About 500 members of the Central Alumni and Friends celebrated their 36th annual Homecoming this weekend. About 155 people attended the kickoff banquet Friday night in the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Officers' Club. The guest speaker was Eldress Mildred...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Post offices named in honor of Wooten and Baddour

Wayne County Commission-er Atlas Price Jr. remembers John Henry Wooten Sr. well. He was one of his best friends, he said. The two first met in the late 1960s/early 70s, when Wooten was working with the school system. "I was...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Salesmen don't represent school system

Peddlers canvassing the Eastern Wayne school district are believed to be a national book-seller, Wayne County Public Schools' officials said Friday. Earlier, Ken Derksen, public information officer for the school system, had alerted the community to be aware of individuals...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Private school graduations held

Friday night produced 105 new high school graduates in the county, with four area schools hosting graduation ceremonies. It was a time of reflection and wistful hopes for the future. For some it also evoked many emotions. Logan Dawson, valedictorian...

Published: May 25, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Highway debate continues

News-Argus/Steve Herring Mike Rutkowski, third from left, of Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc., responds to questioning by William Britt, left, of Wayne County, about the proposed retrofitting of U.S. 70. during a Thursday night forum on the U.S. 70 bypass...

Published: May 23, 2008 3:05 PM Full Story

County wants Falls Lake Dam to flow

It might just be more water behind the dam for Raleigh, but for Wayne County and other communities downstream, the water stored behind Falls Lake Dam is a promise of better flood control and a smooth-flowing Neuse River. Tuesday morning...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:57 PM Full Story

Back on Beston

Displeasure over the state's failure to install stoplights at Beston Road and U.S. 70 near Walnut Creek and concerns about eliminating some U.S. 70 access points Thursday night dominated what was to have been a public forum on the proposed...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:51 PM Full Story

WC ETJ process

If the general consensus is in support of the Village of Walnut Creek establishing extraterritorial jurisdiction after Wednesday's public hearing, then there are still a number of steps village officials must take before they are granted the authority to exercise...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:38 PM Full Story

Tougher penalties for gangs getting state look

With two major pieces of anti-gang legislation having passed the state Senate this week, local law enforcement officials are confident that the General Assembly is headed in the right direction in addressing a growing problem in North Carolina. Featuring a...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:29 PM Full Story

Beaver control sought

Don't leave it to beaver -- at least not in Wayne County where the industrious rodents are taking a toll on timber and cropland. The dam-building critters have developed into such a problem in Wayne County that county Manager Lee...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:22 PM Full Story

Club 55 El Abuelo cited for noise violation

The owner of Club 55 El Abuelo pleaded no contest to violation of a Lenoir County noise ordinance on Thursday, a court official there said. Randy Mills, of Mills Road in the Grantham area, received a 15-day sentence suspended for...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:15 PM Full Story

School officials cautions residents about solicitors

County school officials and the Sheriff's Office are investigating reports that someone is going door to door claiming to represent the school system. It is unclear how far-reaching the situation is, or the specifics of what one or more individuals...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:09 PM Full Story

Jake Bunn on President's list

Jake Bunn of Pikeville, was named to the President's List at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Ga. for the spring semester of the 2007-08 academic year. To be named to the President's List students must earn a quality point average...

Published: May 23, 2008 2:03 PM Full Story

Businesses, government offices closed Monday

The City of Goldsboro will observe Memorial Day on Monday. All offices will be closed and sanitation services scheduled for Monday will be made on Wednesday. Also, all federal, state and Wayne County offices will be closed. Town halls in...

Published: May 23, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story

Chamber organizing Dale Carnegie Course in Goldsboro

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will offer the Dale Carnegie Training program beginning on Tuesday with a no-obligation orientation session. The session, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. will be held at the chamber offices at 308 North William...

Published: May 23, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story

Public record

Thefts *Three black men reportedly broke into a display case in the sports department at the Wal-Mart at 1002 N. Spence Ave. on Tuesday. The report said one of the men went behind the counter and broke the lock to...

Published: May 23, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Market scene planned for downtown restaurant's outside wall

Submitted sketch This is a rendering of a portion of the scene that could be featured on the south brick wall of Torero’s Restaurant. The Wayne County Arts Council is sponsoring the street art project downtown. For more information...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:42 PM Full Story

County rejects state's call for 'help'

Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning voiced their suspicions about a state "voluntary" maintenance road program and their displeasure with a state property reappraisal initiative, both of which could end up costing the county money, they said. Commissioners also renewed their...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:35 PM Full Story

Village asks neighbors' opinions on ETJ change

WALNUT CREEK -- Walnut Creek officials want to know what their neighbors think about establishing an extraterritorial jurisdiction that would govern development within a half mile of the village boundary. A public hearing on the issue will be held at...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story

Woman snaps up identity to get job at plant

Wayne County authorities say a Dudley woman got a job at a nearby chicken processing plant using a Hope Mills woman's identity. Alleged victim Maria Tucker of Hope Mills told a detective her first inkling of fraud came in the...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:22 PM Full Story

Students face end-of-grade tests

It's crunch time for many students in Wayne County Public Schools. End-of-grade tests -- the marker that measures not only children in grades 3 through 8, but teachers and schools as well -- are under way. Testing started Tuesday in...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

Painters sought for new mural

The south exterior wall of Torero's Restaurant downtown will soon become a work of art, thanks to a project to paint a mural the south side of the John Street building. And the community is being invited to help. "It's...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:06 PM Full Story

Indiana Jones brings fans out for midnight debut at local theater

It's about 20 minutes until midnight, and two young men step out of a car and walk toward the door of the Premiere Theatres. As they do, one begins to sing the theme music to the Indiana Jones films. The...

Published: May 22, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story

Beaman wins 2008 WCC Excellence in Teaching Award

Wayne Community College nursing instructor Sue Beaman was rcently named recipient of this year's George E. Wilson Excellence in Teaching Award. The presentation was made during graduation ceremonies, with Ms. Beaman given a framed certificate as well as a cash...

Published: May 22, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story

Public record

Thefts *Charlotte-based HMBI was the victim of air conditioner theft at a Springbank Road home, police said. Thieves absconded with a $4,000 cooling unit, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. *Thieves reportedly took around 100 feet of copper...

Published: May 22, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Carrying a special torch

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Members of the 4th Fighter Wing Security Forces detail run the Special Olympics torch up Berkeley Boulevard Tuesday. Law enforcement agencies across the nation conduct “Torch Runs” each year, raising money for Special Olympics programs in each...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:44 PM Full Story

County: No new taxes this year

Wayne County's commissioners and county Manager Lee Smith say they have no plans to consider an increase in the tax rate for next year. Commissioners should be getting their first look at a draft budget proposal by the end of...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:36 PM Full Story

Council: City parks in need of attention

After presenting an outlook on the current deteriorating condition of some of Goldsboro's parks and recreation facilities to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission last week, Eastern Carolina Council representative Judy Hills brought the information to the City Council Monday...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:29 PM Full Story

Council weighs ordinance to save structures near downtown

The talk wasn't all budget at the Goldsboro City Council meeting Monday. Although council members did hold a public hearing on the 2008-09 spending plan, the council also held seven other public hearings, including one on a subject meant to...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:19 PM Full Story

Duplin unveils legislative agenda

KENANSVILLE -- State Sen. Charlie Albertson and Rep. Russell Tucker have been in the General Assembly "long enough to give us some seniority" when it comes to getting things done, Duplin County Commissioner Zettie Williams said Monday. Ms. Williams' comments...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

Woman steals ID of former boyfriend

Wayne authorities say a Goldsboro area woman used her ex-boyfriend's identity to create a credit account, then confirmed it using her new boyfriend's telephone number. Then, a detective said, Lemeka Angeria Kornegay, 26, Millers Chapel Road, used the HSBC (Hongkong...

Published: May 21, 2008 2:06 PM Full Story

Schools set graduation ceremonies

Four area high schools will salute their graduates Friday. All four ceremonies will begin at 7 p.m. Faith Christian Academy has 23 candidates. Ceremonies are planned in the school gym, with pastor Dann Patrick speaking. Austen Grant Webber is class...

Published: May 21, 2008 1:59 PM Full Story

Dillard Homecoming schedule set

Dillard/Goldsboro Alumni and Friends will celebrate its 53rd annual homecoming this weekend with a western theme. Alumni from across the country will gather in Goldsboro, with classes whose graduation years end in threes and eights holding reunions. "A Western Roundup"...

Published: May 21, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story

Public record

Vehicle, trailer stolen More than $75,000 worth of vehicles and equipment were stolen from a parking lot in the 300 block of U.S. 117 South on Monday night, according to a Goldsboro police report. Victim Ansco & Associates lost a...

Published: May 21, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story

Four honored at MOC graduation

Four awards were presented during the 54th spring commencement at Mount Olive College on May 10. Ryan Fields, a summa cum laude graduate with a 4.0 grade point average, received the Martin Award, given in honor of Lorelle Martin, professor...

Published: May 21, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story

Local students earn recognition from DAR

The David Williams Chapter of DAR, Daughters of the American Revolution, sponsered a Good Citizen and a Christopher Columbus Contest essay contest and presented awards to local teenagers for their winning entries. The topic of the Christopher Columbus Essay for...

Published: May 21, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Celebration in Mount Olive

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Mount Olive College pitcher Ryan Schlecht and catcher Jason Sherrer embrace as other team members run out to celebrate after the Trojans defeated the University of South Carolina-Aiken on Monday to win the NCAA Division II South...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story

To pick VIPER or not to pick VIPER

With the Wayne County Board of Commissioners' quarter-cent sales tax referendum having failed by a more than a 60-percent margin, officials are beginning to look at other options to fund a new emergency communications system. But as they do, questions...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story

Public a no-show at Goldsboro City Council budget hearing

The Goldsboro City Council held a public hearing on the recommended $48.2 million 2008-09 budget at its meeting Monday night, and only two people stood up to speak on the subject. The first was Mary Ann Dudley, the director of...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story

Duplin commissioners bicker over sales tax defeat

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County Commissioner Reginald Wells said campaigning by fellow board member David Fussell and his constituents was a factor in causing the county to miss the "golden opportunity" a proposed one-quarter cent increase in the local sales tax...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story

Duplin commissioners weigh options for increasing salaries

KENANSVILLE -- Minimum salaries for Duplin County government employees lag behind the average of those in surrounding communities, while salaries on the upper end of the pay scale are more in line with those in the same communities sampled for...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story

100-years-old's secret to her long life: Not misbehavin'

MOUNT OLIVE -- The sparkle in her eyes, her quick wit and laughter belie Elizabeth Hines' age, making it hard to believe she is 100 years old. She turned the century mark last Thursday and her family, driving in from...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Public record

Armed robbery Jody Ginn of Peanut Road, Snow Hill reported that he was robbed at gunpoint around 11:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Patetown Road, police said. Ginn did not provide a description of the suspects or weapons, according...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Local Boy Scouts win national competition

The Tuscarora Council Boy Scouts Council has won three national marketing awards for its communication program. The awards, which are part of the 10th Annual President's Award for Marketing Excellence competition, are sponsored by the National Council of the Boy...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Child predator awareness workshop to be held on May 29 at Family YMCA

The Mental Health Association in Wayne County will offer a workshop about child predators for children ages 5 to 11 and their parents. The workshop, entitled "Child Lures," will be held Thursday, May 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the Goldsboro...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

School lunch menu for May 26-30

Monday -- Breakfast: blueberry muffin; Lunch: stuffed crust cheese pizza, rib-a-cue on bun with barbecue sauce, steamed broccoli,corn niblets, applesauce and orange. Tuesday --Breakfast: sausage patty with biscuit; Lunch: mac & cheese with wheat roll, baked corn dog nuggets, steamed...

Published: May 20, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Relay roundup

News-Argus/Greg Sousa 2-year-old Parker Wildman displays her joker hat during the Relay for Life event on Friday night. Thousands of Wayne County residents spent the evening and part of the next day having fun and raising money to battle...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story

Relay for Life donations - $650,000 ... and still counting

Heavy rains might have dampened the 7,603 luminarias that graced a Wayne Community College parking lot Friday evening, but Relay for Life co-chair Debbie Pennell said they could not dampen the spirits of the thousands who showed up to stare...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story

Really big grill has a higher calling

Julian Nelms of Fremont and Chip Crumpler of Goldsboro are used to fielding questions about the three large green and yellow grills mounted on a long trailer that they haul around. So when they pulled up to their site at...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story

It's back to the drawing board for communications system funding

Wayne County commissioners could soon be lobbying state lawmakers to take another look at recent legislation that limits how a county can utilize revenues from the 911 emergency telephone surcharge. That option is expected to top the list Tuesday as...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story

Duplin Schools unsure of next move

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County Public Schools Supt. Dr. Wiley J. Doby has reserved comment on the county's $43.7 million general fund draft budget that falls about $6 million shy of funding the some $13 million being requested by the county's...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Brothers charged in armed robbery

Two brothers have been charged by the Goldsboro Police Department Criminal Investigations Division in connection with an armed robbery involving a shotgun. Charged were Therian Whitehead, 20, of 200-G Beal St. and Aaron Whitehead, 23, whose address was listed as...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Million Step March to visit Mount Olive College

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive College will host the BlueCross BlueShield North Carolina Million Step March May 27 from 3-6 p.m. The statewide wellness initiative promoting the benefits of physical activity is a free event, open to the public. The...

Published: May 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

A dream for her little boy ... a cure

Renee Bryan remembers when her son, Cooper, told her he was OK. "He said, 'Mommy, I'm not sick anymore. I can go home now,'" she said. "That just about ripped the heart out of my chest." The truth was, Cooper...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story

Carson memorial painted

"I love UNC. I love the quad in the spring and the arboretum in the fall. "I love the Pit on a sunny day and Graham Memorial Lounge on a rainy one. "I love Roy all the time. But what...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story

Commission to hear comments on U.S. 70 plans

There is going to be a northern U.S. 70 bypass around Goldsboro and now is the time for county residents to have their say about the proposed highway as well as the fate of the existing one, Wayne County Manager...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

City Council to hold budget public hearing

The Goldsboro City Council will hold eight public hearings Monday, including one regarding the proposed $48.2 million 2008-09 budget. Despite an earlier recommendation by City Manager Joe Huffman to raise the property tax rate by five cents, councilmen have since...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Helping those who can't see

Lions clubs are known for their efforts to help the visually impaired through the organization's White Cane and eyeglasses programs. But Saturday afternoon at the Wayne Center, two local Lions clubs were serving up a picnic meal instead. The annual...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Tucker to lead state DSS study

At the request of county social service directors across the state, the North Carolina General Assembly has established a joint committee to study the agencies and a list of their concerns. Helping head up those efforts will be co-chairman Rep....

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

County youths work to revitalize old group

With agriculture facing more and more obstacles from population growth, urban development and high operating costs, local farmers aren't the only people mobilizing to make sure their voices are heard. A group of high school and college students is as...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

Wayne County Senior Games winners

The Wayne County Senior Games were held last week, and the following senior citizens received medals. Gold Medalists *Jane Adams- table tennis, pottery *Polly Adams- discus, croquet, 5K race walk, vocal large group *Raymond Barnes- softball throw, shuffleboard, billiards *Sandra...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

One cause. Thousands of hearts.

Michelle Marks used to be the one at Relay for Life clapping as the survivors took their traditional lap to mark the official opening of the event. She was there for her grandmothers, both of whom died of cancer. But...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Relay Idol winners let tributes be their guides

There was no acid-tongued Simon to provide commentary on their performances -- and the performers did not seek fame or fortune. Rather, the eight contestants in the Relay Idol contest were there to honor relatives, friends and neighbors who have...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Booths were rocking; many came knocking

Clowns, Mardi Gras partygoers, a gigantic chicken and even a cow walking upright on two feet greeted visitors at the 2008 Relay for Life Friday and Saturday at Wayne Community College. As in past years, the teams tried to outdo...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Luminarias, buttons ... and love

Each of the luminarias was marked with a phrase. "Every candle has a name." But in many cases Friday evening, dozens of flames burned in honor or in memory of a particular man, woman or child. Thurman Daniels was represented...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Central High School Homecoming schedule set

Central Alumni and Friends will hold its 36th annual Homecoming Friday through Sunday. Central High School Classes of 1938, '48, '58 and '68, and the Eastern Wayne High School Classes of 1978, '88, '98 and 2008 will be honored. The...

Published: May 18, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

More Relay coverage starting Friday night

Beginning Friday evening, see more of Wayne County's Relay for Life event on our new and improved Photo Gallery. Also, this Sunday, read the print edition of the Goldsboro News-Argus for more stories and pictures of the event....

Published: May 16, 2008 4:55 PM Full Story

Relay for Life

News-Argus/Greg Sousa Manuel McElroy, left, and Cecil Rose begin placing the luminaries for tonight’s Relay for Life event. By the time the event starts at 4 p.m., there will be almost 8,000 luminaries in place. For more information see...

Published: May 16, 2008 3:00 PM Full Story

Ready to Relay?

Amid all the laughing and joviality, you wouldn't know the room was full of cancer survivors. The 15th annual cancer survivors banquet was held Thursday night at First Pentecostal Holiness Church. Survivors of all ages ate their meal while "Superstition,"...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:54 PM Full Story

Plenty of food choices to be found at tonight's Relay for Life

Whether you're in the mood for some eggrolls or want to sink your teeth into a southern barbecue sandwich, you're sure to find a buffet of goodies at the 2008 Relay for Life. Top off a meal of chicken, pork...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:49 PM Full Story

Expert: Conflict no issue for two hopefuls

David Lawrence, a leading professor at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill's Institute of Government, agrees with the assessments of Wayne County attorney Borden Parker and Wayne County School Superintendent Dr. Steve Taylor that there is no formal statutory conflict...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:42 PM Full Story

Ballree hearing is May 29

Emmett Ballree, Mount Olive's former chief of police, is facing a state hearing to consider revoking or suspending his certification to be an officer. Ballree, who is currently, chief of police at Boiling Springs Lake near Wilmington, will go before...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:36 PM Full Story

SJAFB airman cleared of rape charge

A jury found a Seymour Johnson Air Force Base airman innocent of second-degree rape, second-degree sex offense and assault inflicting serious bodily injury on Thursday. Jack Lee, 25, of Poinsettia Drive, stood accused of a February 2007 rape in a...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:29 PM Full Story

WMH Nurses of Excellence are honored

Fourteen nurses and nursing assistants were recognized for outstanding patient care at Wayne Memorial Hospital Thursday night during the annual Excellence in Nursing banquet. The pool was narrowed down from 59 nursing staff members nominated for the honor based on...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:22 PM Full Story

Runoff in works for seat in Senate

More than 10 percentage points separated them after the May 6 primary, but because Don Davis fell just short of the necessary 40 percent to win outright, Kathy Taft has officially exercised her right to request a runoff on June...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:16 PM Full Story

Public record

Goldsboro Police in torch run Lawmen from both the Goldsboro Police Department and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base will participate Tuesday in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, according to a news release. Officers will meet at the...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:09 PM Full Story

Six girls to compete in Rosewood pageant

The annual Miss Rosewood High School Scholarship Pageant will be held Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Wayne Community College Moffatt Auditorium. Six contestants will compete for the title and scholarship money. Admission is $5 in advance and $7 at...

Published: May 16, 2008 2:03 PM Full Story

Neuse restrictions don't affect Wayne

RALEIGH -- Because of PCB contamination, state public health officials are warning Wake County residents to eat no more than one meal a month of carp or catfish from parts of the Neuse River, Walnut Creek and Rocky Branch, and...

Published: May 16, 2008 1:56 PM Full Story

No moratorium on shad fishing

A story in Thursday's News-Argus incorrectly said there is a moratorium on fishing for shad in North Carolina. The moratorium is on fishing for river herring, not shad....

Published: May 16, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Downtown Jam cancelled

The first of the summer series of Downtown Jams sponsored by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. has been canceled due to inclement weather. The Legends of Beach Music were to perform off Center Street today at 5:30 p.m. but have...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:24 PM Full Story

1,000 new jobs for TransPark

KINSTON -- After 15 years of waiting for a flagship company to arrive, vindication came Wednesday for all those involved in the building of the North Carolina Global TransPark, as Gov. Mike Easley traveled to Kinston to announce that Spirit...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:19 PM Full Story

Braswell denies defaulting on loan

Wayne Superior Court Judge Jerry Braswell said RBC Bank's lawsuit against him is due to a disagreement over interest rates and that he did not default on a loan, as the bank alleges. RBC Bank sued the Braswell this month...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:15 PM Full Story

Goldsboro City Council says no to tax hike

The Goldsboro City Council agreed at a budget work session Wednesday that it would not increase the current property tax rate for 2008-09. City Manager Joe Huffman had proposed a 5-cent increase earlier this year to balance the budget. The...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

Refuse rate change likely

Even though Goldsboro residents likely won't see an increase in property taxes this year, they might see an even bigger increase in garbage collection rates than was first considered by the City Council in its initial budget work sessions. Last...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:08 PM Full Story

Teacher's talent touted

A second-grade teacher from Michigan has been named the 2008 Beginning Teacher of the Year for Wayne County Public Schools. Maggie Keaner moved to Wayne County to be a teacher at Northwest Elementary School. Although she came knowing no one,...

Published: May 15, 2008 2:03 PM Full Story

Wingate University awards local students scholarships

Brian David Alexander and Michael Hayden Gardner of Goldsboro, graduating seniors at Wayne Christian School, have been accepted into Wingate University for the fall of 2008. Each has earned the Irwin W. Belk Scholarship. The scholarship has a four-year value...

Published: May 15, 2008 1:56 PM Full Story

Goldsboro's Ray Browna appointed to Fisheries Commission

Goldsboro businessman Ray Brown has been appointed to an advisory panel of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, a regional organization representing 15 states that oversees fishing regulations from Maine to Florida. His appointment is for four years. Brown was...

Published: May 15, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story

Public record

Copper theft Best Sand and Gravel at 117 Best Sand and Gravel Road reported to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office the larceny of $6,000 worth of copper wiring. Armed Robbery Mount Olive police are searching for an armed gunman who...

Published: May 15, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

BREAKING NEWS - Aeronautics company will build new facility at Global TransPark

Vindication came today for all those involved in the North Carolina Global TransPark as Gov. Mike Easley traveled to Kinston today to oversee the announcement that Spirit AeroSystems Inc. will be bringing more than $570 million in investments and...

Published: May 14, 2008 3:17 PM Full Story

Copper theft

News-Argus/Nick Hilton Copper theft forced Gary Brogden, owner-operator of Goldsboro-area Ace Heating & Cooling, to install a brand new air conditioner at the Top Hat Dance Studio on Tuesday. Top Hat owner and local eye doctor Charles Zwerling noticed...

Published: May 14, 2008 2:23 PM Full Story

Judge Braswell defaults on land loan

Wayne County's sitting Superior Court judge has been sued for defaulting on a property loan by a international bank chain. A lawsuit filed this month by RBC Centura Bank shows multiple properties belonging to Jerry Braswell have already been sold...

Published: May 14, 2008 2:16 PM Full Story

Primary canvass finalizes winners

Tuesday's canvass of last week's primary votes in Wayne and Duplin counties did not reveal any surprises or changes in how candidates finished in their respective races. Provisional ballots were the main focus of the canvass in both counties. However,...

Published: May 14, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

Precious metal theft a problem

The surging price of copper has created a huge demand for the metal used as a key building component and thieves have pounced on the value, making copper one of the most stolen items in Wayne County. It can be...

Published: May 14, 2008 2:06 PM Full Story

Dixon calls for runoff in Duplin race

KENANSVILLE -- Jimmy Dixon of Mount Olive has called for a runoff election against Frances Parks of Calypso for the Democratic nomination for the District I seat on the Duplin County Board of Commissioners left open by Commissioner L.S. Guy...

Published: May 14, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story

Goldsboro told parks need improvements

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission had a visitor at its meeting Tuesday night, but she wasn't there to just pat them on the back. Judy Hills, a representative from the Eastern Carolina Council, came to speak to the commission...

Published: May 14, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story

Duplin looks at industrial incentives

KENANSVILLE -- Incentives for industrial recruitment, "love them or hate them," are part of the cost of doing business today, Bud Cahoon, economic development manager with the N.C. Electric Membership Corp., told Duplin County commissioners at the board's most recent...

Published: May 14, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story

Volunteer award nominations being accepted

Nominations are being taken for the 2008 North Carolina Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service. The Wayne County Association of Volunteer Administrators will evaluate the nominations and select five individuals, businesses and/or groups to be recognized for their contributions to the...

Published: May 14, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Duplin is looking at budget balancing

KENANSVILLE -- A risk management/wellness program for county employees, continuing efforts to collect delinquent property taxes and an appeal to state legislators for authority to garnishee wages to collect unpaid fees top the list of ways Duplin County Manager Mike...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story

Pecan Road bridge work to start soon

From staff reports State officials awarded a $1.1 million contract to replace a bridge on Pecan Road as part of the road improvement projects approved by the state De-partment of Transportation. Projects in Wayne, Duplin and Sampson counties were among...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:21 PM Full Story

Jaycees honor several community members for service

Tasha Logan thought she was walking into the First Baptist Church Monday night as a supporter. She believed Paramount Director Sherry Archibald would be recognized at the Goldsboro Jaycees 68th annual Distinguished Service Awards Banquet and that Downtown Goldsboro Development...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:15 PM Full Story

Acrylic painting wins in Wayne art show

An acrylic that brings a new interpretation to cubism won Best in Show honors at the Arts Council of Wayne County's 29th annual Juried Fine Arts Exhibition, while a photograph that told a story through contrasts was awarded Best in...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:10 PM Full Story

Public record

Fire investigation Goldsboro police are investigating a Saturday afternoon fire at 402 Birch Drive, according to a patrolman's report. An officer noticed both a car and that residence, owned by Gloria Johnson, on fire. The officer reported there were visible...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:05 PM Full Story

Wayne Services on Aging reverse mortgage program

Any Wayne County resident owning his or her own home but having trouble paying bills is invited to attend a presentation on reverse mortgages at the Wayne County Services on Aging office at 100 S. John St. This free program...

Published: May 13, 2008 2:01 PM Full Story

New community branding survey available online

Goldsboro Wayne Travel and Tourism and the City of Goldsboro are asking for the community's help as they collaborate on a research project to help develop a stronger identity for promoting tourism and economic development in Wayne County. As part...

Published: May 13, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story

WCDS senior presents Girl Scout 'Gold' project

Emily Best, a senior at Wayne Country Day School, is working toward her Girl Scout Gold Award project, the highest award in Girl Scouts. The Gold Award is the equivalent of the Eagle Award in Boy Scouts and has a...

Published: May 13, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story

Lunch menus Wed May 14

Monday -- breakfast: apple muffin; lunch: pepperoni pizza, chicken salad with two packs of crackers, turnip greens, corn on the cob, diced pears, red Delicious apple. Tuesday -- breakfast: egg and cheese, omelet with toast; lunch: baked chicken nuggets, meatloaf,...

Published: May 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

John Kerr: No concern for Wayne in District 5

As the results began coming in Tuesday night, the disappointment was easy to see on former Wayne Community College President Dr. Ed Wilson's face as he saw that not only was he losing in both Pitt and Greene counties, but...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Two injured after city shootings Saturday

Two people were reported shot within and near Goldsboro's city limits early Saturday morning, police reports show. The first was at 3:40 a.m. Saturday, when Octavious Broadhurst, 21, of Dudley reported he was leaving Teasers night club on U.S. 117...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Legislators say money is top issue for session

With smaller-than-anticipated revenues and many state lawmakers likely to be pre-occupied with their re-election campaigns, local legislators are not expecting a busy summer as they prepare to open the General Assembly's 2008 short session Tuesday. "We've got a tremendous amount...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

SWHS will get three new 'schools' next year

Three new vocational programs will be added at Southern Wayne High School in the fall. But even with the good news in the southern end of the county, some residents are questioning what the announcement means for Goldsboro High School,...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

WCC graduate did not let his limitations stop degree

Edna Smith of Snow Hill did not have to wait until graduation day at Wayne Community College to celebrate her son, Sheldon's accomplishment. She has been with him all the way. Sheldon, now 33, was born with spina bifida. He...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Local teachers receive Kenan accolade

Two teachers at Wayne County Public Schools' newest sites have been chosen to be part of the first expansion class in the Kenan Fellows Pro-gram for Curriculum and Leader ship Development at N.C. State University. Amanda Warren, an engineering and...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Ronald McDonald scholars announced

Two area students were recently awarded $1,000 scholarships from Ronald McDonald House Charities for outstanding academic and community achievement. Jessie Pineda of Mount Olive, a senior at Southern Wayne High school, and Brittany Harrell of Fremont, a student at East...

Published: May 12, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

WCC hands out 455 diplomas at Friday ceremony

More than 450 students received degrees, certificates and dilpomas Friday evening at Wayne Community College’s spring commencement. But someone was missing. In fact, as the Class of 2008 celebrated a milestone reached, Susan Wills was tending to her classroom...

Published: May 11, 2008 10:57 AM Full Story

Friends, families gather to honor MOC graduates

MOUNT OLIVE — It was a typical graduation scene Saturday at Mount Olive College. And those who had just received their degrees had typical dreams. “Sleep,” one said. “I’m going to the beach for a few weeks,” added another....

Published: May 11, 2008 10:56 AM Full Story

Dog saves woman from burning house

A 911 call comes in from a woman on Birch Drive. She knows one of her neighbor's homes is in flames, and thinks the fire might be spreading down the block. Goldsboro firefighters are called to the scene. Gloria Johnson...

Published: May 11, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story

300 more airmen now back home

By KENNETH FINE News-Argus Staff Writer Lauren Cooper's 14th birthday present brought her to tears. All she really wanted was to see her father, Gabriel. It had been four months since their last embrace. So as a group of nearly...

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Fred Smith says he's hapy with race for GOP nod

Despite losing the Republican gubernatorial nomination to Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory, and the disappointment that naturally comes along with that, Fred Smith said Thursday he was pleased with the campaign he ran. "Going through this campaign was a great...

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Taylor: Commission candidacies not a conflict of interest

Two school system employees vying for county commission seats will not be considered in conflict of interest should they win, the schools superintendent says. The contenders are Dr. Sandra McCullen, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction, who this week captured...

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Cashwell Post Office officially named for John Henry Wooten Sr.

BY MATTHEW WHITTLE News-Argus Staff Writer More than six months after U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield introduced legislation to name a Goldsboro post office in honor of John Henry Wooten Sr., President George W. Bush has signed the bill into law....

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

City to flush water lines starting Sunday

From staff reports The City of Goldsboro Public Works Department will begin its annual uni-directional water line flushing program on Sunday. Crews will be flushing lines from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. daily except Fridays and Saturdays through June 20....

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Center Street Jams start May 29

From staff reports Get ready to dance because the time for the Center Street Jams, the after hours summer music festival, is nearing. The first one will be held Thursday and will feature Legends of Beach Music. The jams are...

Published: May 11, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story

Greene County crash

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Emergency response personnel from the Shine area of Greene County work at the scene of a four-seat, propeller-driven airplane crash Wednesday. Officials reported that two people were found dead inside the airplane. For more information see Two...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:17 PM Full Story

Two die in plane crash Thursday near Shine

SNOW HILL -- An experimental aircraft's pilot reported icing on his wings before disappearing from radar and crashing in a field near Snow Hill on Thursday afternoon, authorities said. Two people were confirmed dead after the crash sometime after 1...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:14 PM Full Story

Duplin cracks down on crack

KENANSVILLE -- Crack cocaine and marijuana with estimated street values of $50,000 and $8,000, respectively, were seized in a raid at the home of a 57-year-old Duplin County man, Duplin Sheriff Blake Wallace announced Thursday. Also, Wallace said 20 people...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:10 PM Full Story

Scouts honor longtime volunteer

The Girl Scouts honored Betty Kemp on Thursday night with its Woman of Distinction award. Mrs. Kemp has worked with the Girl Scout program for more than half a century, said Coast Pines Council Chairman Martha Webb of Raleigh, who...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:07 PM Full Story

GED graduates walk stage at WCC's commencement

Toneiko Holloway's decision to return to school in August to get her high school diploma was the first of many battles she would encounter in the months to follow. In addition to attending to her studies at Wayne Community College,...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:03 PM Full Story

Public record

Break-in arrest A Goldsboro police investigator reported a Snow Hill man was responsible for a May break-in at a residence in the 500 block of A Street, Goldsboro. William Ray Johnson Jr., 42, Crestwood Drive, is charged with felonious breaking...

Published: May 9, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story

Wanted: Artists for Summer Concert Series

The Goldsboro Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for its Summer Concert Series in the Park. The department is looking for bands, soloists and instrumentalists in the categories of jazz, pop, R&B and gospel. Interested persons should submit a...

Published: May 9, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story

Wayne County still abnormally dry

Wayne County residents have seen a good deal of rain lately and it has been good news -- the drought in the county has eased somewhat. But Wayne remains "abnormally dry," according to a report released Thursday by the North...

Published: May 9, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story

City to flush water lines starting Sunday

The City of Goldsboro Public Works Department will begin its annual uni-directional water line flushing program on Sunday. Crews will be flushing lines from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. daily except Fridays and Saturdays through June 20. Residents may experience...

Published: May 9, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story

City fire station doing routine child safety seat checks

Concerned about the number of young passengers not being properly restrained in Wayne County vehicles, the City of Goldsboro has established Fire Station No. 2 as a permanent checking station for child safety seat installments. Located at 1901 Royall Ave.,...

Published: May 9, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Breaking News -- Fatal plane crash

Two people are confirmed dead in a crash of a two-seater plane in the Shine community in Greene County. The plane landed in a field near U.S. 13 North just after 1 p.m., Shine Fire Chief Jeremy Anderson said....

Published: May 8, 2008 5:14 PM Full Story

Homecoming

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Logan Collins, left waves with his mom, Jenny, and brother, Hunter, to their father Capt. Lewis Collins of the 335th Fighter Squadron as his F-15E shuts down on the flight line of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base...

Published: May 8, 2008 2:30 PM Full Story

Home again: Pilots return from four-month deployment

His eyes still stinging from a post-flight champagne shower, James Jinnette reached down for the reason he is a fighter pilot. It did not seem to matter that he had spent four months at war. Or that landing his F-15E...

Published: May 8, 2008 2:25 PM Full Story

Colleges get word on policy on illegals

RALEIGH -- North Carolina's community colleges should drop a lenient admissions policy for illegal immigrants and return to more restrictive rules that follow federal law more closely, the state Attorney General's Office said. The 58-college system now admits illegal immigrants...

Published: May 8, 2008 2:19 PM Full Story

Election turnout was high in county

Even with voter turnout reaching nearly 40 percent Tuesday, Wayne County elections director Vickie Reed said everything went smoothly and that she is confident the county had a successful primary. "The count came out correctly," she said. "It went very...

Published: May 8, 2008 2:11 PM Full Story

City Council starts talking about budget

The Goldsboro City Council met with City Manager Joe Huffman and several Finance Department employees Monday in order to find ways to narrow spending and avoid increasing the property tax rate. Huffman has proposed a 5-cent increase in the rate...

Published: May 8, 2008 2:07 PM Full Story

Duplin voters pick their winners

KENANSVILLE -- Facing a four-way race to replace retiring District 1 Duplin County Commissioner L.S. Guy, Frances Parks of Calypso just edged Jimmy Dixon of Mount Olive by 43 votes Tuesday, but it wasn't enough to capture the Democratic nomination....

Published: May 8, 2008 2:02 PM Full Story

WCC holding graduation ceremonies today, Friday

Wayne Community College officials estimate there will be 455 curriculum graduates and 355 basic skills graduates this year, 105 from the adult high school and 230 receiving General Educational Development, or GED, certificates. Two graduation ceremonies will be held this...

Published: May 8, 2008 1:56 PM Full Story

WCR survey deadline May 15

Those who read this year's selection for the Wayne County Reads season have until May 15 to respond to a poll about what they thought about the book and the series of events surrounding it as well as what they...

Published: May 8, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story

Goldsboro Rotary now accepting grant applications

The Goldsboro Rotary Club's Community Service Committee is accepting grant applications. Local non-profit organizations seeking funding can complete an application form by May 19. These forms are available from Club President Julie Daniels, 778-7074, or from Club Secretary Gary Smithwick,...

Published: May 8, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story

Public record

Neal case handled 'meticulously' A Goldsboro police investigations press release says meticulousness, not other priorities, is the reason an investigation into William Jackson Neal Jr. took from summer until Neal's indictment by a grand jury on Monday. Neal is accused...

Published: May 8, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Keck, Anderson among primary winners

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Republicans Hal Keck, left, and Andy Anderson playfully put up their dukes Tuesday night after winning their respective primaries for the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. Keck won the nomination for the at-large seat on the board...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:45 PM Full Story

Read your lips: No new taxes

Wayne County voters Tuesday left no doubt about their distaste for a proposed one-quarter cent sales tax increase, voting down the measure by a lopsided margin of 18,669 to 4,012. That is 82 percent no and 18 percent yes. "Gracious,...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:40 PM Full Story

Democrats: Either way, a vote cast for history

Amoree Brown walked away from the Wayne County Library Tuesday evening with a round sticker on his shirt -- the words "I Voted" printed across an American flag inside the white circle. It didn't seem to matter that he didn't...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:34 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Gaylor will be on ballot for District Court judge

Despite an early lead in the race for the open seat on the 8th District bench, judicial candidate Charlie Gaylor didn't want to "count his chickens before they hatched." But as the numbers continued to roll in from the three...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:27 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Commission showdown

Dr. Sandra McCullen, an assistant superintendent with Wayne County Public Schools, won the three-way race for the Democratic nomination for the at-large seat on the Wayne County Board of Education Tuesday, while businessman Hal Keck earned the Republican berth. They...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:22 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Anderson holds off challenge for ballot

Veteran District 1 Wayne County Commissioner Wilbur "Andy" Anderson handily turned back fellow Repub-lican James Beckwith in Tuesday's primary election. Anderson, who is serving his fourth four-year term on the board, garnered 944 votes (68.91 percent) to 426 (31.09 percent)...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:17 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Lois Mooring wins Register of Deeds

With no opposition lined up to face her in the fall, Wayne County Register of Deeds Lois Mooring will likely cruise to a second term in office after soundly defeating challenger Constance Coram in Tuesday’s Democratic primary. The race,...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Web will battle incumbent Jones in U.S. Congress District 3 race

Facing his first primary since being first elected in 1994, U.S. Rep Walter Jones defeated challenger Joe McLaughlin by nearly 20 percent. "It's humbling," Jones said. "I'm grateful for all the votes and will continue to do for the people...

Published: May 7, 2008 2:07 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Davis takes down Wilson to get runoff slot

In what seemed to be shaping up to be the surprise upset of the evening, Snow Hill Mayor Don Davis beat all comers in the state Senate District 5 Democratic race, but not by enough to secure the nomination Tuesday....

Published: May 7, 2008 2:02 PM Full Story

Your Votes - Rouzer to face Carroll for state Senate District 12

With Republican state Sen. Fred Smith giving up his District 12 seat in a failed bid for his party's gubernatorial nomination, four candidates stepped up during Tuesday's primaries for the chance to fill it. Now, with the votes counted in...

Published: May 7, 2008 1:56 PM Full Story

Lunch prices could go to $2

The price of school lunches in Wayne County Public Schools will go up next year, prompted by rising fuel, labor and food costs, officials say. Despite efforts of several school board members to keep the increase at bay Monday night,...

Published: May 7, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story

Base Thrift Shop

By KENNETH FINE For the Wright Times Forget about yard sales and Internet auction sites. Take a break from long hours in department stores. And please, avoid the trash bin when you can. The Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Thrift...

Published: May 7, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story

Suspect in rape case

News-Argus/Bobby Williams After the wrong man spent 18 years in prison for the 1987 rape of a young girl, authorities think they have the man who really committed the crime already in prison. For more information see The real...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story

Voters flock to polls to mark ballots

Wayne County voters turned out in droves today to cast their ballots in what may be the decisive primary for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination. But with a sales tax referendum and a host of county commission, state and judicial...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Board: School will be out for holiday

The school board officially approved a change to the public school calendar Monday night, making Memorial Day a holiday and the following Saturday a make-up day. In recent weeks, the schools calendar came under fire from military families and veterans...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

The real culprit?

Dwayne Dail served 18 years for a rape he did not commit, but now prosecutors believe they can convict the man who might have actually climbed through a 12-year-old's window in 1987. A man serving a seven-year sentence in Johnson...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Officials discuss mental health concerns

After spending much of their winter break examining the state's mental health system and the consequences of the reforms that have been implemented since 2001, Rep. Van Braxton, D-Lenoir, said legislators are beginning to feel like they have figured out...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

City Council approves permit to add tanks

The Goldsboro City Council approved several items at its meeting Monday, but most of the discussion turned toward a conditional use permit requested by Myco Supply Co., during the group's work session. Two of the council members expressed their concerns...

Published: May 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story

Duplin commissioners start looking at budget „ and deficit

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County commissioners Monday morning got a glimpse of a draft general fund budget that is $6 million out of balance -- with an additional $2 million in deficit possible depending on the county's decisions on personnel. The...