Friday, January 30, 2009
To go four-day or not to go four-day?
Realtors and other professionals worried that plans to close the Wayne County Register of Deeds and tax offices on Fridays would further damage a real estate market already hammered by a struggling economy have a reprieve -- for now....Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Realtors, others: Eliminating Fridays will affect closings
Closing the Wayne County Register of Deeds Office and Tax Office on Fridays would hurt the local real estate business at a time when the industry is already struggling, business leaders say. A group of business leaders met with the...Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sheriff takes look at security at inauguration
Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders took along a cadre of officers to Washington to attend the inauguration of President Barack Obama, but they were doing more than sight-seeing, the sheriff said. They were researching the kind of security required to...Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Why go four days in the first place?
Originally driven by soaring fuel and utility costs, the four-day workweek implemented for most county offices in August, is estimated to have saved the county more than 12 percent on those bills. Most county offices are open from 7...Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Cherry on state list for cutbacks
Faced with a looming shortfall that's expected to hit $3 billion by the end of the fiscal year, state department heads were ordered earlier this month to present budget cut proposals of up to 7 percent to Gov. Beverly...Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Juvenile charged Another juvenile was charged in connection with two break-ins at Family Dollar on South George Street, police said. The unnamed juvenile is the second arrest made in the case, and was charged with felony-level breaking and entering,...Published: Jan 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Consultant: Rec Center fee $100
If the Goldsboro City Council decides to move forward with its current plans to build the Community Recreation Center, membership fees could reach $100 a month for families and $60 a month for single adults. That's just one of the...Published: Jan 29, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne's freshmen state senators get first look at new jobs
EDITOR'S NOTE: In this part of an occasional series, The News-Argus talks to Wayne County's two freshmen senators about their thoughts and experiences Wednesday at the opening day of the 2009-10 session of the state General Assembly. By the time...Published: Jan 29, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
SJAFB airman will face sexual assault charge
A U.S. Air Force technical sergeant has been charged in connection with the sexual assault of a 13-year-old boy and with allegedly showing him pornographic material, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday. An investigation was launched after family...Published: Jan 29, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man accused in condoms theft points gun at clerk
A Goldsboro man pointed a handgun at a grocery store employee Tuesday night after he confronted him about the six packs of condoms in his pockets, police said.Ash Street Food Lion employee John Hendrick told officers he was working on...Published: Jan 29, 2009 8:30 AM Full Story
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Seymour Johnson sergeant charged with sexual assault of a 13-year-old boy
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Technical Sgt. Jeremiah Williams Powers, 32, faces charges for an alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-old male, a Sheriff's Office captain said. A 10-day investigation involved both Sheriff's Office detectives -- Richard Winders and Larry...Published: Jan 28, 2009 2:48 PM Full Story
Former City Council member J.B. Rhodes dies
Former Goldsboro City Council member J.B. Rhodes died Tuesday. He was 82. Rhodes served on the City Council from 1987 until 2003. He served as mayor pro-tem in 1991, 1999 and 2003. He was the owner and operator of Rhodes...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Education, highways, military top goals for chamber coalition
KINSTON -- State lawmakers Monday were asked to continue funding for early childhood education programs and the state's community colleges, to leave the state's Strategic Highway Corridor Plan intact and to make it easier for military personnel to make the...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sager begins legislative career today
As one of fewer than 20 freshmen legislators, today is the day Rep. Efton Sager has been waiting for. At noon, the 2009-10 session of the North Carolina General Assembly will convene, and Sager, a Republican from the Mar-Mac area...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Cornerstone plaques unveiled
Despite the rain Tuesday afternoon, more than 50 people came out to Cornerstone Commons to honor recipients of the Cornerstone Award. Plaques recognizing the dozen or so Wayne residents who received the award have been inserted into the brickwork at...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Victim beaten, coat taken Antionette Brewington, 38, of Alpha Court told Goldsboro police she was beaten and her jacket was stolen on Monday, according to police. The incident occurred inside a tobacco store in the 1300 block of West Grantham...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Roof repairs
Aorian Zetina, front, and Renee Castro, rear, of Jedco Construction, work on completing one of the roof sections on the Dogwood Building at Wayne Community College on Monday. The $302,822 project, begun in mid-October, is expected to be finished by...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
With help of special program, MOC employees become alumni
MOUNT OLIVE -- Six Mount Olive College employees are now also alumni after recently graduating from the college, degrees in hand. Completing their studies with the help of the Heritage program, an incentive effort featuring a one-night-a-week format, the...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
GATEWAY makes route adjustments on north end
"Thin" ridership on the GATEWAY bus system's northern route has prompted a routing change. The change, approved by GATEWAY directors Tuesday afternoon, will now send a bus to the new Wal-Mart at Rosewood while continuing to send a bus...Published: Jan 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Wayne County's 'most wanted'
Wayne County authorities said their "most wanted" drug offender is Richard Steven Stonerock, 54, whose last known address was on Bloomingfield Place in Goldsboro, the Sheriff's Office says. The Sheriff's Office says Stonerock should be considered "armed and dangerous," authorities...Published: Jan 27, 2009 3:29 PM Full Story
Region's leaders wary, but hopeful, about North Carolina economy
KINSTON -- If economic misery loves company then North Carolina's Eastern Region isn't alone. But the misery is not as bad here as it is in other regions, several speakers at a Monday conference at Lenoir Community College said....Published: Jan 27, 2009 2:02 PM Full Story
Jail space limits drug arrests in county raid
The Sheriff's Office arrested 15 alleged drug offenders Monday morning -- people who would have probably been picked up earlier if not for an overcrowded jail. But authorities said court officials worked hard to keep the jail population at an...Published: Jan 27, 2009 2:02 PM Full Story
Public record
Police still seek shooting suspect Goldsboro police are asking for the public's help for information in the shooting of Rakim Treme Boone, 20, shot while sitting in the parking lot of Creative Cuts on North George Street, police said. Boone...Published: Jan 27, 2009 2:02 PM Full Story
Budget deficit will top list for state legislature
Faced with an estimated budget shortfall this year of nearly $3 billion -- and a much larger one expected next year -- local legislators acknowledge that their ability to address many of the region's needs will likely be limited....Published: Jan 27, 2009 2:02 PM Full Story
Monday, January 26, 2009
Pirates will take spotlight for Wayne County Reads program
Readers will travel the high seas this year as Wayne County Reads kicks off its 2009 community reading project by following the exploits of one of the world's most notorious pirates. "Blackbeard: America's Most Notorious Pirate" is the choice this...Published: Jan 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County Chamber of Commerce - Looking forward in 2009
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will be more proactive in 2009 and will continue to push for improvements in the county's education system, which Terry Jordan, the chairman of the chamber's board of directors, describes as the undergirding of...Published: Jan 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Considering a mortgage? Don't be afraid, lenders say
The word "mortgage" might conjure up negative images in the minds of many hesitant potential homeowners, but for people with cash on hand and a good credit history, securing a mortgage now could be a wise financial decision. Many houses...Published: Jan 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Getting ready for Goldsboro Bypass
Residents and motorists in the Salem Church Road community should get used to the sight of dump trucks and other heavy equipment. The area is being reshaped somewhat by construction work being done on the first section of the...Published: Jan 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Local students get firsthand look at historic inauguration
Carter Jones had been to Washington, D.C. before, but the 11-year-old didn't really remember that much about the nation's capital. "I was little when I came before," the Carver Elemen-tary School fifth-grader said. But as he started his jaunt to...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Decades-old rape case reset for Feb. 16
A man Goldsboro police say is linked to a 1987 rape of a 12-year-old girl -- the same crime that sent an innocent man to prison for 18 years -- is scheduled to appear in court next month, a judge...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
One shot away: Retiring Goldsboro policeman looks back on career
Brady Thompson saw a blue flash and grabbed his chest, rolling back into an empty East Elm Street bedroom he had just "cleared." Thompson, the captain of Goldsboro's Narcotics/Vice squad, had been shot by a man under suspicion for cocaine...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Governor makes unannounced visit to Cherry
Gov. Beverly Perdue made good on one of her campaign pledges Friday, dropping in unannounced at Cherry Hospital for a surprise visit. During her campaign the governor promised that she would make surprise accountability inspections at state facilities, including...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Money totals in from 2008 election races
Fourth-quarter campaign finance reports for those candidates who ran in November's elections were released earlier this month, and among those who won state office, almost all agreed that spending was higher than expected in 2008. In the state Senate...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Dr. Ed Wilson remembers association with late Bob Scott
Ed Wilson remembers former Gov. Bob Scott well. As the executive vice president of the state community college system, Wilson worked directly with the governor for nine years. "There's just so much to say about him," he said about Scott,...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Cornerstone winners to be honored with plaques
Winners of the Wayne County Chamber of Com-merce's Annual Cornerstone Award, the organization's most prestigious award, will be honored with a ceremony Tuesday. The award is presented to individuals that have shown commitment to the growth of the community...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Duplin Historical Society to honor WWII heroes with memorial
KENANSVILLE -- The man who spearheaded -- and executed -- an effort to honor Duplin County's Vietnam War dead has a new mission. Duplin Historical Society president Charles Ingram said the organization is planning to hold a memorial service much...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Commissioners' group seeks end to second primaries
If the state's county commissioners have their way, the money their counties have to spend for what is traditionally a handful of voters to cast ballots in second primaries would become a thing of the past. For example, a...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Company says coal ash ponds no threat here
Coal ash ponds have been an inconspicuous part of the Wayne County landscape since the 1950s and most residents are probably unaware of the pond's existence just a few miles west of Goldsboro near the Neuse River. The ponds...Published: Jan 24, 2009 11:46 PM Full Story
Friday, January 23, 2009
Perdue makes surprise stop at Cherry Hospital
Making good on one of her central campaign pledges to hold government more accountable, Gov. Beverly Perdue made a surprise visit to Cherry Hospital Friday. During the visit, Perdue, accompanied by state Department of Health and Human Services Secretary...Published: Jan 23, 2009 5:22 PM Full Story
County's attorney stopped on suspicion of DWI
Wayne County Attorney Borden Parker Jr. was charged with driving while under the influence and speeding 60 miles per hour in a 35 mile-per-hour zone early Sunday morning. Parker, 64, was stopped by a state Highway Patrol officer on...Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
MOC students get firsthand view of Obama inauguration
MOUNT OLIVE -- A group of Mount Olive College students who made the trip to Washington, D.C., this week said while attending the inauguration was not always easy, the chance to see history in the making was worth the trip....Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont officer found dead in his home
Hours after a Fremont police officer was found dead inside his Goldsboro home, the head of the department expressed the grief he and others who knew Rusty Herring are feeling. "Anytime you lose a law enforcement officer, you're losing a...Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Report says divisiveness is hurting Duplin image
KENANSVILLE -- An independent report conducted by a member of the Kenan School of Business at the University of Chapel Hill says Duplin County is not presenting a positive image on the Internet. Dr. James H. Johnson, who was asked...Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Jewelry stolen Approximately $50,000 worth of jewelry was stolen from Gold & Diamond on North Berkeley Boulevard Wednesday afternoon, police said. The suspect is described as a black male, about 5-feet 5-inches tall, in his 20s, with a heavy build,...Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Apartment fire caused by heater
Goldsboro Fire Department units responded to an apartment fire at 315 N. Alabama Ave., West Haven Apartments, about 10:30 p.m. Wednesday. Assistant Fire Chief Eric Lancaster arrived on the scene first and reported heavy smoke showing. The apartments were...Published: Jan 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Mount Olive residents could get prescription savings plan soon
MOUNT OLIVE -- Some residents here could soon be saving an average of up to 20 percent off full retail cost of their prescriptions -- and pay nothing for the privilege. The town earlier this month finalized the requirements...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County farmers not predicting banner year for planting, prices
Even in the dead of winter, Keith Waller is thinking of spring. Although the fields of his Mount Olive farm are empty this time of year, planting season is on the way, and Waller faces difficult decisions. "We're trying to...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
General: SJAFB will be around for years
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. -- When Gen. John Corley talks about Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, he says the installation has a long future ahead of it. But just what that future would look like still raises questions for...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Winter melt
Despite the nearly 4 inches -- on average -- of snow that fell on Wayne County Tuesday, much of it had melted by Thursday -- even though temperatures Wednesday struggled to break the freezing mark. However, black ice was...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Landfill ramps will be widened for safety's sake
Ramps at some of the county's convenience sites literally have people on the edge when it comes to driving a full-sized pickup truck onto them. It is a safety issue that the county hopes to rectify through a $250,000...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin to equalize rates for water use
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County Board of Commis-sioners voted Wednesday to raise rates in the county's water districts, making costs uniform for all county customers. The commissioners voted 4-1 to adopt the new water rates, which will raise all bills for...Published: Jan 22, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Instructor receives N.C. award for mentor program
Ray Burrell, who formed the Minority Male Mentoring Group, or 3MG, at Wayne Community College in 2001, has been recognized with a state award for his contributions to human and race relations in the workplace and community. Gov. Bev Perdue...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
STORY AND NEWS VIDEO: Snow closes some stores, gets blame for traffic mishaps
Wayne County residents were working today to dig out from under the 4 inches of snow that fell Tuesday, shutting down businesses and causing dozens of minor accidents from Mount Olive to Fremont. A winter storm dumped at least 4...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Inmate escapes from jail in only boxers
A Goldsboro man awaiting trial on charges of sexual assault, first-degree burglary and second-degree kidnapping escaped from the Wayne County Detention Center Monday morning wearing nothing but his boxer shorts after overpowering and assaulting a guard. Christian Godette was...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Battling the bugs: Young and old fight illnesses
Coughing, congestion, runny nose, sinus pressure, headaches, stomach bugs -- flu season's not quite here but all the symptoms are, sending many to emergency rooms and pharmacies for the best cure. At Immediate Care, most of what is being seen...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Local veteran to command state Purple Heart
Mike Burris knows what it is like to come home from war among the wounded. He was awarded the Purple Heart after injury forced him out of Vietnam Feb. 8, 1968. "One doctor said it was a gunshot, the...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College offers fitness program
MOUNT OLIVE -- Yvonne Hobbs was being treated by a doctor for problems with her knees, her weight and high blood pressure. Then her physician suggested a fitness program at Mount Olive College. Fitness by Design was introduced in...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
James Kenan High improves test scores
WARSAW -- After receiving help from two school improvement experts last year, James Kenan has been recognized by the governor's Turn-Around School List. The school qualified for the distinction when 8 percent more of its student body -- 46.6...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin department heads ask for direction with budget
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County employees are lowering thermostats, using scrap paper for notes and are generally trying do more with less as county leaders search for ways to trim costs without raising taxes or laying off employees. But county...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Crop Disaster Program sign-ups ending Feb. 27
The Wayne County Farm Service Agency has announced that the sign-up period for the 2005-07 Crop Disaster Program will end on Feb. 27. The ending date applies to the receipt of a signed and completed FSA-840 application, along with all...Published: Jan 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
VIDEO REPORT: NAACP Celebrates Barack Obama inauguration
About 30 people celebrated the inauguration of our nation's 44th president, Barack Obama, at the Rebuilding Broken Places Community Development Corporation. Watch the video report by clicking the link, or scrolling down to our "Latest Video" section at the lower...Published: Jan 20, 2009 3:31 PM Full Story
Across county, residents celebrate historic event
Ignoring the snow that fell throughout Wayne County Tuesday, about 30 people braved the icy roads to celebrate together at Rebuilding Broken Places as President Barack Obama took his historic oath of office. For many of them, Obama becoming...Published: Jan 20, 2009 2:27 PM Full Story
Applicants can take new tests to show job skills
County leaders are hopeful that extending a job skills assessment program already available to high school juniors and seniors will benefit the county's growing number of unemployed. The county's unemployment rate hit 7.2 percent in November, the highest it...Published: Jan 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Snowflakes fly across North Carolina
The sporadic light mixture of snow, ice and rain that started falling on Wayne County around 6 a.m. today made earlier forecasts of a measurable accumulation seem less than certain. But forecasters with the National Weather Service said the county...Published: Jan 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Ex-Cell CEO shares his story of water landing on Hudson River
When Barry Leonard boarded his flight home last Thursday afternoon, he wasn't surprised to see Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger in the cockpit. "I've seen him many times on this route," said Leonard, president and chief executive officer of Ex-Cell Home...Published: Jan 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials: Jet was visiting SJAFB
The in-flight emergency that led Wayne County personnel to the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base flight line Sunday did not involve a 4th Fighter Wing F-15E, but the incident did involve an Air Force Strike Eagle. The jet, an asset...Published: Jan 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 19, 2009
Forecast: Snow is on way tonight
DOT work crews were applying salt brine to the county's major roadways this morning in anticipation of 1 to 6 inches of snowfall predicted to begin tonight or by early morning. Luther Thompson, DOT county maintenance supervisor, and several...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Association ready to fight involuntary annexation
RALEIGH -- Sounding at times like a council of war, the state's county commissioners last week threw down the gauntlet on the contentious issue of involuntary annexation. Meeting at the Sheraton Raleigh for its annual legislative goals conference, the...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Honoring Dr. King
Heavy morning fog and threatening clouds didn't dissuade a crowd of nearly 600 people this morning from attending the 22nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration at the Goldsboro-Raleigh District Assembly. Children as young as 6 and senior...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Seymour Johnson AFB jet has 'in-flight emergency'
An emergency at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base prompted a response from Wayne County personnel Sunday. Wayne County Emergency Services officials confirmed that they were called to the flight line as a result of "an in-flight emergency," but said they...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
More than 100 gather for Mount Olive's MLK celebration
MOUNT OLIVE -- More than 100 community members and local government officials gathered Sunday at the Payne Temple AME Zion Church in Mount Olive to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "We are standing...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Seven Springs now has own site on Internet
SEVEN SPRINGS -- The town of Seven Springs has a Web site. Mayor Steve Potter created the Web site at www.sevenspringsnc.org, and the town board voted last Wednesday to make it the town's official website. Now, Potter said, the community...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin commissioners meet Tuesday
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. in the county administration building in Kenansville to discuss several items, including how to deal with English as a second language. Commissioner David Fussell of Rose...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Gaming conference set for Feb. 7 at Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College will hosts its fourth annual gaming conference next month, complete with video game tournaments, educational sessions and exhibition booths, as well as keynote speakers by industry experts. The Phi Beta Lambda chapter will sponsor the Carolina Games...Published: Jan 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, January 18, 2009
With latest plans, walking trail nears reality for Stoney Creek Park
Stoney Creek Park will soon have a paved walking trail. The Stoney Creek Park Alliance met Thursday to discuss the cost of a 1,800-foot trail that will circle from the parking lot on Ash Street around the wetland area,...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Idaho F15-E pilots find warm welcome at SJAFB
There were no wives or girlfriends with tears in their eyes standing along the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base flight line Friday afternoon. There were no children waving American flags to welcome their daddies back from war. No father...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Despite classes being out, schools mark historic event
County schools are not in session through Wednesday, meaning students will miss out on classroom discussions of Martin Luther King Day and the presidential inauguration. Educators are keenly aware of the two events' significance, though, and have structured activities...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Family proud to span 'two worlds'
Robert and Virginia Gerald's living room walls tell the story of their 75 years of marriage, the dozens of framed photographs bright with the cap-and-gown smiles of children long grown and the promise of descendants yet to come. Five...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Former employee suit against Cherry heard
After nearly six years of waiting, Len Henderson has had his day in court. The case of the former staff development director at Cherry Hospital was heard in Wayne County Superior Court on Friday by Judge PaulRidgeway. No decision...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Old Dobbs Society gets lesson in rural medicine
The modern health care industry is one of the most tightly regulated in the United States. Most doctors have access to the latest diagnostic equipment, the Food and Drug Administration closely monitors the development of new drugs, and prospective...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
State losing ability to help counties
RALEIGH -- When the state's county commissioners gathered two years ago for their legislative goals session, North Carolina had a budget surplus of nearly $350 million, and the state enjoyed a debt capacity of about $200 million a year....Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Officials ask feds for help for rural areas
With the 111th Congress beginning to discuss the possibility of a second stimulus package worth billions of dollars, North Carolina officials are working to make sure the state's rural communities are not overlooked. Speaking during a roundtable discussion hosted...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Public hearings high on City Council agenda
The Goldsboro City Council will hold six public hearings and discuss the condemnation of several dilapidated dwellings at its meeting Tuesday afternoon. The first two hearings will be held on rezoning requests. Kathy Woodard made a request to change property...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Paramount to hold anniversary gala
On Saturday, Feb. 14, the Paramount Theatre will hold its first anniversary Celebration Gala. The featured performer for this year's event will be Goldsboro High School graduate Jean Bradel. Ms. Bradel, a world-class lyric spinto soprano, has performed as...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Commission approves new fire districts map
The new Wayne County fire districts map approved earlier this month by commissioners did little more than fine tune district lines, and perhaps more importantly, signal the first step toward simplifying a three-map system into a unified one. The...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Speed possible reason for fatal crash
One Sampson County teenager is dead after a fatal single-vehicle wreck on N.C. 55 outside of Mount Olive early Saturday morning. At approximately 1:30 a.m. Saturday, emergency personnel responded to a report of an accident on N.C. 55 about...Published: Jan 18, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, January 16, 2009
McKenzie ordered to pay $8,000 bond
A Wayne County judge ordered a Fremont man Thursday to pay the county $8,000 or forfeit his animals while abuse charges against him are pending. The county had filed a lawsuit against Lawton McKenzie to recoup the costs of caring...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Commissioners reword taxing authority plan
RALEIGH -- A legislative goal that appeared aimed at giving county commissioners the power to sidestep the public when it comes to implementing certain taxes was amended before it even reached the floor for a vote Thursday afternoon. Staff...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public speaks its mind on land
With more than 75 people on hand Thursday night to discuss the future of the old Community Building site there was no shortage of suggestions, but the one thing almost all of the speakers had in common was a desire...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Ex-Cell CEO on Flight 1549
The chief executive officer of a company operating in Goldsboro was one of 155 people on the US Airways flight that crashed Thursday afternoon in the Hudson River in New York. Barry Leonard, president and CEO of Ex-Cell Home...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Forum speaker says downtowns should be solid
The speaker at the annual Speaker's Forum Thursday at the Paramount Theatre compared cities with cookies and doughnuts, saying Goldsboro residents should want their city to be a cookie -- solid all the way through -- and not a doughnut,...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Racial slur about Obama found on downtown Goldsboro wall
A racial slur about President-elect Barack Obama was discovered spray-painted on the back wall of a downtown building Thursday, but by this morning the evidence of a potential hate crime had already been removed. The graffiti was written on the...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College students blogging about inauguration
Six Mount Olive College students are attending Presidential Inauguration seminars in Washington D.C. this week and have set up a blog to share their experiences. Students were nominated to attend the 10-day session and will receive college credit. The seminars...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin boards meet
ROSE HILL -- Smoke from a battle over school funding in Duplin County seems to be clearing as both the county Board of Commissioners and Board of Education met Thursday morning to discuss a wish list for possible federal help...Published: Jan 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Cold snap spreads across state
David Nail, the foreman of a drilling crew, prepares his machinery for work early this morning on Pecan Road. Despite the cold, his crew is laying a natural gas line to Case Farms. A sudden drop in temperatures has Wayne...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne commissioners support expanded revenue sources
When the state Association of County Commissioners meets today, Wayne County commissioners are expected to support the legislative goals of the association -- goals whose primary interest is preserving the local revenue base. That protection would take the form...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne Community College enrollment increases
Wayne Community College is continuing its trend of steady enrollment growth, with 200 more students than the same time last year, officials said. With most classes resuming for the spring semester earlier this month, preliminary numbers showed 3,301 curriculum, or...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin's Fussell opposes additional taxation power
Duplin County Commissioner David Fussell is in Raleigh today opposing measures that would give counties more authority to raise taxes. As a delegate to the County Commissioners Association's Legislative Conference at Raleigh's Sheraton Hotel Wednesday and today, Fussell was expected...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Consultants project $1 million shortfall for Rec Center
The Community Recreation Center might cost the city between $2.14 million and $2.64 million to operate in its first year, and that number is likely to continue to increase annually after that. The Sports Facilities Advisory, a consulting firm hired...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Four more Cherry workers indicted
The three former Cherry Hospital employees charged with beating a patient and one charged with sexually abusing another were indicted earlier this month by a Wayne County Grand Jury. The three indicted for beating the patient -- James Allan...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro High School makes strides
It's been nearly three years since Judge Howard Manning threatened to close Goldsboro High School, sparking local debate and sending officials scrambling to keep the doors open. Then-Gov. Mike Easley even stepped in, naming it one of 66 high schools...Published: Jan 15, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Teen charged in baseball bat assault
A Raleigh teen found living with friends in the Brogden area along U.S. 117 near Dudley has been charged with an early January baseball bat assault, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Lacy Douglas Hocutt, 17, was charged with hitting...Published: Jan 14, 2009 4:12 PM Full Story
Rawlings pleads in officer shooting
A Goldsboro man pleaded guilty in Wayne County Superior Court this week to shooting a Goldsboro police captain in the chest after a motion to move his trial failed. Bobby Lee Rawlings, 60, who had already been convicted on cocaine...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
F-22A Raptor rattles local skies
It was just hanging there -- suspended in the sky -- hundreds of feet above the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base flight line. An F-22A Raptor from Langley Air Force Base worth nearly $150 million -- one of the world's...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Surprise! Your dad's home.
Toby and Zakary Larson were called to the principal's office at Meadow Lane Elementary School just before the bell rang Monday afternoon. They weren't in trouble, Principal Celia James assured them. They had a visitor from overseas. It was the...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
New penalties sought in animal case
A Fremont area man charged with animal abuse faces another misdemeanor charge because he had four dead owls on his property, the N.C. Wildlife Enforcement office says. The charge could have been a felony if one of the owls...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Quiet achiever: Cornerstone Award winner doesn't seek spotlight
Mt. Olive Pickle Co. President Bill Bryan wasn't quite sure Tuesday what the day would hold, but he started to get a sense that something was going on around mid-morning. "I had a meeting scheduled for this afternoon that was...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect in cancer scam faces new charge
A Goldsboro woman accused of bilking a neighbor out of $16,000 on false claims of brain cancer surgery now faces other charges, in Mount Olive and as far away as Tarboro. Stacie Harrell Pittman, 31, of Fallin Boulevard, has...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Lee-Jackson banquet to be held Saturday
The Sons of Confederate Veterans will hold a Lee and Jackson banquet Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at The Steak Barn on U.S. 70 West. The Goldsboro Rifles Camp, the Dr. B. T. Person Camp, the Pettigrew's Partisan Rangers and...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
History of rural medicine focus of Saturday program
Members of the Old Dobbs Genealogical Society invites the public to join them on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at the Wayne County Public Library to learn more about the history of the practice of medicine in rural North Carolina....Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin Commission decides against cutting staff, services
KENANSVILLE -- Despite their earlier threats to the contrary, Duplin County commissioners decided Monday not to cut any positions or services to pay the bills being generated by their overcrowded jail. Instead, the commissioners voted to leave it up...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin boards to meet Thursday
A joint meeting will be held Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at the Rose Hill Restaurant between the Duplin County Board of Commissioners and the Duplin County Board of Education to restore the lines of communication that broke down last...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Clothes, jewelry, other items burned According to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report, Jennifer Deanna Pittman, 22, Nahunta Road, said that someone had burned $20,000 worth of property belonging to her. Burned were clothing, jewelry, shoes, belts, purses, wallets, a...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin to get help soon with brown water issues
KENANSVILLE -- Faced with increasing complaints about the county's sometimes brown water, the Duplin County Board of Commissioners has given the water department permission to expand its search for a new water technician. Shorthanded since mid-November when one of...Published: Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
It's enough to drive them just plain batty
When the sun sets on Andrews Avenue, the dusky sky near the home of Howard and Mary Peterson starts looking like Halloween.Bats, as many as 50 at a time, have been flying around the Petersons' home for weeks. And...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County tax collections on track
Wayne County tax officials say collections are on track with last year and that they hope to eventually equal or improve on last year's 97 percent collection rate.As of last Tuesday, the collection rate was 77.87 percent compared to...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
VIDEO REPORT: Raptor flies in
An F-22A Raptor from Langley Air Force Base in Virginia took to Wayne County skies this morning to show off the capabilities of the air frame to Seymour Johnson airmen and local community leaders. For more information on the flight,...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Keen no longer vice chair
Steve Keen, who was elected in November to the District 4 seat on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, has stepped down as vice chairman of the county planning board, but will remain a member of that body. It...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Test time: End-of-course exams here
High school students across the county this week are taking end-of-course tests for the fall semester. And as always, there's a lot riding on the outcome, officials say. In recent years, the fall exams have been administered before the Christmas...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Homebuyer program expanded
A city program that helps with down payments on homes in Goldsboro's historic district has been expanded. The city's Homebuyer Assistance Program matches down payment costs up to $5,000, and the loan is forgiven after five years of residency in...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Senior Center offering health class on nutrition
The Wayne County Senior Center began hosting a 10-week health education program on nutrition today. The Steps to Health Older Adult Program is a grant-funded nutrition education program that will be taught by Christine Smith, family and consumer science...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Residences, vehicle shot Pauline Dobson, Aliya Barrett and Michael Genesse were inside Ms. Dobson's home on Sunday night when an unknown person shot the residence several times, and also shot Ms. Dobson's vehicle, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Lunches needed for Goldsboro Habitat volunteers
Lunches are needed at a worksite for Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro Wayne County. Habitat is looking for organizations or individuals to feed volunteers at the site on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. A meal calendar is being planned for...Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
GATEWAY to run on holiday schedule Monday
The Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority will be operating on a holiday scheduled Monday, in observance of Martin Luther King Day. The bus service will operate from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The van service will operate on its normal schedule....Published: Jan 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 12, 2009
Wayne County OKs water, methane deals
Contracts for a joint water venture with the Eastern Wayne Sanitary District and another to allow a company to capture methane gas at the landfill were approved last week by the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. Both contracts had...Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Aycock triplets
On Jan. 3, workers at the Charles B. Aycock birthplace discovered that one of the sheep raised there had given birth to triplets. Discovered during early morning feeding time at the state historic site, the three lambs were still wet....Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Construction wavered in Wayne, Goldsboro in 2008
New residential and commercial construction fluctuated in 2008 in Goldsboro and Wayne County, reflecting the ongoing economic downturn that is sending many families into foreclosure and prodding companies to cut costs, but both the city and county also showed evidence...Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville council looks to force annexing
Faced with a $5 million debt to ElectriCities, Pikeville's town council and its 719 residents may look for more landowners to share the financial burden, the town's mayor said. Saying that the town will explore its annexation options, Mayor...Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Leaders in Duplin try to avoid tax increase
Duplin taxpayers will find out in a few months how well their board of county commissioners fares in its battle to keep taxes from going up. But commissioners have decided to meet the challenge head-on and already are meeting with...Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Raptor landing for show practice
If all goes according to plan, some local residents might catch a glimpse of one of the most advanced fighter jets on the planet this afternoon. An F-22A from Langley Air Force Base is expected to land at Seymour Johnson...Published: Jan 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Hood starts Elvis museum
Ryan Hood has been a longtime Elvis Presley fan, creating his own museum in a converted storage building behind his Goldsboro home. Among the memorabilia he has on display are souvenirs from trips to Graceland, Elvis' home in Memphis, Tennessee,...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Public hearing set for Thursday
Wayne County residents will get a chance Thursday to tell the board of trustees of the old Community Building what should be done with land the board owns on the corner of William and Walnut streets. The public meeting will...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Seventh annual Speakers Forum to feature former U.S. Rep. William Hudnut III
The Seventh Annual Speakers Forum will be held at noon on Thursday at the Paramount Theatre and will feature guest speaker William H. Hudnut III of the Urban Land Institute. Hudnut is a former U.S. representative and former mayor of...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne Community College reflects on successful '08
The economy may rise and fall, but at Wayne Community College officials count on partnerships built over the years to keep it steady. And while 2008 was a good year, every struggle came down to the money ---- particularly financial...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
An artfully delicious idea
As an art teacher, Beth Hill enjoys having the freedom to do fun projects with her classes. One of those became a reality recently for her Art II students at Eastern Wayne High School, allowing them the chance to demonstrate...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive makes stimulus plans
MOUNT OLIVE -- A new fire station and water projects totaling $3 million top the town's wish list when it comes to snagging a share of President-elect Barack Obama's proposed $700 billion economic stimulus package. And commissioners want to be...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
She banged drum for N.C.'s new governor
When the Tryon Palace Fife and Drum Corps performed Saturday at Gov. Bev Perdue's inauguration, North Carolina's first female governor probably didn't know one of the drummers was a kindred pioneering spirit. Even though most people typically think of percussionists...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Officials mull over options for taxes
Wayne County Commission Chairman Bud Gray says he thinks the county would "probably go for" an increase in the local sales tax should the county need more revenue. "If we had to have more revenues, that would be the way...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Mental health professionals wait for word on next steps
Among the challenges facing new Gov. Bev Perdue is dealing with concerns about the state's mental health system -- and local health officials are anxious to see what new leadership will mean to providers and patients. To help her tackle...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Economy will slow 2009 city spending
Goldsboro Mayor Al King says 2009 will be a slow year -- mostly because of stress on the city's resources that could stall or stop several major city projects -- quite a change from the fast pace of 2008. "2008...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Tryon Palace corps
When the Tryon Palace Fife and Drum Corps performed Saturday at Gov. Bev Perdue's inauguration, North Carolina's first female governor probably didn't know one of the drummers was a kindred pioneering spirit. Even though most people typically think of percussionists...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
SUN- EOYear Mayor
Goldsboro Mayor Al King says 2009 will be a slow year -- mostly because of stress on the city's resources that could stall or stop several major city projects -- quite a change from the fast pace of 2008. "2008...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
sales tax
Wayne County Commission Chairman Bud Gray says he thinks the county would "probably go for" an increase in the local sales tax should the county need more revenue. "If we had to have more revenues, that would be the...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
public record
Theft An estimated $1,425 worth of items were reportedly stolen from the Wayne County Animal Shelter on Clingman Street sometime between Dec. 1 and Jan. 5, according to a report filed by Wayne Benton with Goldsboro police. Access was gained...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
ken jones reaction to dhhs secretary pick
Among the challenges facing new Gov. Bev Perdue is dealing with concerns about the state's mental health system -- and local health officials are anxious to see what new leadership will mean to providers and patients. To help her...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Jaycee, Chamber banquet
The annual Chamber meeting/Jaycee Distinguished Ser-vice Award Banquet will be Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. at Mount Olive College, hosted by the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mount Olive Jaycees. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
federal emergency food and shelter program applications
Wayne County has been awarded $72,880 in Federal funds under an Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) administered by the Federal Emergency Manage-ment Agency (FEMA). Last year's award was $57,624, which assisted local charities in providing more than 15,000 meals...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Court Records Sunday Jan. 11
Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: * Anthony Lee Rayburn, 40, Kent Lane, Pikeville, possession of stolen goods and property, four months suspended, 12 months supervised probation, $241.50 cost, $250 fine, $668...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Births Sun Jan 11
Broome Michael and Mandy Broome and Brandon and Zachary announce the birth of a daughter and sister, Paylan Nicole, Jan. 3. Charles and Ann Potter are maternal grandparents. Paternal grandparents are Sue Daniels and the late Lynn Ronald Broome. Cashwell...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
7A WCC --end of year
The economy may rise and fall, but at Wayne Community College officials count on partnerships built over the years to keep it steady. And while 2008 was a good year, every struggle came down to the money -- particularly financial...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
7A SUN-Speakers Forum preview
The Seventh Annual Speakers Forum will be held at noon on Thursday at the Paramount Theatre and will feature guest speaker William H. Hudnut III of the Urban Land Institute. Hudnut is a former U.S. representative and former mayor...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
7A SUN- Public meeting preview
Wayne County residents will get a chance Thursday to tell the board of trustees of the old Community Building what should be done with land the board owns on the corner of William and Walnut streets. The public meeting...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
7A mo stimulus
MOUNT OLIVE -- A new fire station and water projects totaling $3 million top the town's wish list when it comes to snagging a share of President-elect Barack Obama's proposed $700 billion economic stimulus package. And commissioners want to...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
7A EW mural
As an art teacher, Beth Hill enjoys having the freedom to do fun projects with her classes. One of those became a reality recently for her Art II students at Eastern Wayne High School, allowing them the chance to demonstrate...Published: Jan 11, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, January 9, 2009
Seymour Strike Eagles to fly over governor inauguration
At 10 a.m. Saturday, the inauguration ceremony for Governor-elect Beverly Perdue and the rest of the Council of State will begin in front of the Office of Archives & History Building, 109 E. Jones St. in Raleigh.The actual swearing-in will...Published: Jan 9, 2009 3:35 PM Full Story
Animal rescues: Seized animals in protective custody
Cages were posted with "protective custody" signs Thursday at Wayne County Animal Control's adoption center. They contained animals seized from a Fremont property where investigators described "horrible" conditions. Lawton Caswell McKenzie, 28, of Old Black Creek Road, Fremont, said "the...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Shooting suspect will face death penalty
Prosecutors will seek the death penalty for Devon Dejatorian Jones, who is accused of killing Joseph Payan, 33. The Wayne County District Attorney's office asked for and received death penalty status Thursday for the case, which is being heard...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
School board to ask for $5M from lottery funds
The Board of Education voted Thursday to request $5.5 million in lottery funds from the state be used for three construction projects -- at Mount Olive Middle, Brogden Primary and Greenwood Middle schools. Wayne County commissioners recently raised concerns about...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
1-795 repairs will cost millions
It could cost the state $14 million to $22 million to correct the crumbling pavement on Interstate 795, according to a Federal Highway Administration report released earlier this week. Meanwhile, Ricky Greene, N.C. Department of Transportation division engineer, said...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man wanted on drug charges
A Goldsboro man is wanted on four counts of trafficking cocaine, Goldsboro drug authorities said. Richard Steven Stonerock, 64, of Bloomingfield Place, is also charged with maintaining a dwelling for keeping controlled drug, fleeing to elude arrest and possession of...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Cold Stone Creamery will re-open
Goldsboro residents won't have to be without Cold Stone Creamery ice cream much longer. Anne Christenson, spokesperson for Kahala Corp.-- the company that owns Cold Stone, said the location will be operated by their regional manager, and that it...Published: Jan 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 8, 2009
DUDLEY --Two men arrested for cocaine trafficking - UPDATED 2
Two men were arrested for possession of about $300,000, street-value of powder cocaine from two Sandhill Drive men in Dudley, Sheriff's Department Lt. Chris Worth said.Jose Guadalupe Augilar-Huerta, 40, and Joel Sicairos Rivera, of nearby address on Sandhill Drive, are...Published: Jan 8, 2009 3:35 PM Full Story
Woman charged in scam
A Goldsboro woman accused of bilking her neighbor for money on a health claim faces charges for never spending that money on medical bills, authorities say. Stacie Harrell Pittman, 31, next-door neighbor to Air Force employee Christopher Hines, is...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Carroll tapped for post in Perdue's Cabinet
When Gov.-elect Bev Perdue takes office at the inauguration ceremony on Saturday, Wayne County native Dale Carroll will be watching closely along with the rest of the state. It will be the official introduction of North Carolina's first female governor...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
New zoning ordinances ease Mount Olive landscaping requirements
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive town commissioners Monday night amended a provision in the town's zoning ordinances to make it easier for businesses to meet landscape requirements. In other business, eight rundown properties were given reprieves of up to...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Murder suspect could face death penalty
The Wayne County District Attorney's office was expected to petition this morning for the death penalty in the case of Devon Dejatorian Jones, accused of murdering Joseph Payan, 33. A person close to the case said that one of...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County manager asks officials for four-day workweek expansion
Wayne County Commissioner Steve Keen wants more than assurance that the county's four-day workweek is indeed saving money before agreeing to extend it to all county offices. County Manager Lee Smith had suggested at commissioners' Tuesday meeting to make...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin school board, commissioners will reinstate meetings
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Education agreed Tuesday to meet with county commissioners over breakfast. Tentatively set for either Jan. 15 or Jan. 27 at a location to be decided by the two boards, the meeting is...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Victim found unresponsive The Wayne County Sheriff's Office says the death of 40-year-old George Allen Williams of Heather Ann Lane is under investigation. Williams was not under a doctor's care or on any medications, according to the report. 'Mystery...Published: Jan 8, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Pickup truck fished out of river in county
It appears that a truck recovered this morning from the Neuse River at Arrington Bridge Road might have been intentionally driven into the river near the city's wastewater treatment plant. The truck was pulled from just under the bridge...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Children of active military at 10 percent
Active duty military students currently make up at least 10 percent of the population in Wayne County Public Schools, officials say. According to the latest figures for 2007, the district has 1,860 students of active military parents, said Jamie Livengood,...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Guess what's coming (It rhymes with eye-pop)
There won't be a shortage of pancakes and french toast in Goldsboro soon. Or possibly cornbread and beans for that matter. The International House of Pancakes is coming to town -- followed closely by a still-in-the-planning-stages Cracker Barrel -- both...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Hundreds line up for chance at forklift jobs
KENANSVILLE -- Hundreds of applicants are going after a handful of fork-lift operator jobs at Nordic Cold Storage in Teachey. Pam Burrs, the office manager at Nordic, said the company is looking for about five or 10 fork lift...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Animal abuse suspect caught
A man accused of maintaining a residence filled with dismembered, dying and sick animals has been arrested. Lawton McKenzie, 28, was arrested Tuesday afternoon at the Wayne County Sheriff's Office after turning himself in, authorities said. Wayne County Animal...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Jobless rate hits 7.2 here in Wayne
The unemployment rate in Wayne County rose in November to 7.2 percent, overtaking the previous 17-year high of 6.9 percent set last July. "It's the highest it's been since the early 1980s," said Bill Pate, manager of the local...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
DGDC to hold calendar promotion event Thursday
The Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. will hold a sponsorship and media blitz Thursday night at the Paramount Theatre from 6 to 8:30 to show former and potential sponsors what events are held by the DGDC throughout the year. "People...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery The Quality Inn on Corporate Drive was robbed at gunpoint late Monday, Goldsboro police reports show. A 30-year-old female clerk said a black male entered the motel and pushed her while sitting in a chair, then used a...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Church support director wins MOC staff excellence award
Jean Fillingame Ackiss, director of church support at Mount Olive College, recently received the J. William Byrd Award for Staff Excellence. The award, sponsored by Dr. Thomas R. Morris, a long-time MOC supporter, is given annually to a staff...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin to cut costs to pay for inmates
KENANSVILLE -- It will likely be at least another week before anybody knows how many Duplin government employees will lose their jobs and what public services will have to be cut in order to pay for the county's growing...Published: Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Making sure lost children, seniors have best chance of being found
It might look like a cheap, stripped-down plastic watch, but the Care Trak device strapped to 4-year-old Joey Avery's ankle cost about $240. The boxy receiver that works with the little bracelet resembles a clunky handheld radio and costs more...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville increases electric rates 4 percent
PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville Town Board approved a 4 percent increase in electricity rates Monday night that will become effective next month. The increase is the second that the town, a member of the public power co-operative ElectriCities, has...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Judge takes oath
Wayne County Resident Superior Court Judge Arnold Jones Jr. puts on his robe shortly after being sworn into office Monday. Jones, whose father, the late Arnold Jones Sr., held the post for years, earned an eight-year term by defeating...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive officials change traffic pattern
MOUNT OLIVE -- Motorists in downtown Mount Olive should be prepared for changes in downtown traffic patterns after the town board voted Monday night to follow a state Department of Transportation recommendation to allow traffic to cross the railroad...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Counties asking for power to override 'no' votes
Could Wayne County officials authorize an increase in the local sales tax simply because voters in another county approved a similar measure? The wording of the priority goal of the N.C. Association of County Commissioners indicates the organization is...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
City puts Recreation Center on hold
The Community Recreation Center project has officially been put on hold. Goldsboro City Council members decided Monday to delay the project in three-month increments until officials are confident the city can afford to pay for it. "We aren't going to...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Board will talk facilities Thursday
The Wayne County Board of Education will wait until Thursday to discuss facilities recommendations for the coming year and the money to pay for them. Monday's 90-minute meeting abruptly adjourned without any discussion of the additional facilities agenda item. The...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Explorer Club wins fifth trophy in six years
For the fifth time in six years, the Goldsboro Police Department's Explorers club took home the overall winner tropy at a regional competition. The event, hosted by the Pitt County Sheriff's Office, pitted the talents of Goldsboro Explorers --...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect detained in shooting
Police have captured a man wanted since late September for allegedly shooting the girlfriend of a man charged in his brother's death, police said. Alicia Griffin was shot in the 1700 block of Maple Street on Sept. 24, police Sgt....Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man identified in Fremont animal cruelty case
Wayne County animal control officials have released the name of a Fremont man being sought after several dismembered animals -- as well as 26 living ones -- were removed from his home recently. Lawton McKenzie, 28, is being charged...Published: Jan 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 5, 2009
First day back to school
Sarah Robinson, right, asks 5-year-old Victoria Perry, left, Cameron Smith, 6, Dylan Thomas, 9, and Justin Whaley, 10, about their Christmas break outside Greenwood Middle School this morning on their first day back to school from holiday break. Wayne County...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Chamber concert added to Gala lineup
The annual gala sponsored by Wayne Community College Foundation will be a little different this spring -- prompted by a chamber music concert that exceeded expectations several months ago. That concert featured Dr. Jeremy Thompson, a pianist at First Presbyterian...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Help available for handling winter heating bills
For Wayne County residents struggling to keep warm this winter, help is available through the utility companies themselves as well as the Department of Social Services. The North Carolina Utilities Commission regulates public utility services in the state, including...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Hospital to balance economy, 2009 plans
Wayne Memorial Hospital is not immune to the financial troubles that have the world on edge, but hospital President and CEO Bill Paugh says that despite the economic uncertainty, the hospital remains committed to improving facilities and care. The hospital...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect sought on animal cruelty charges
A Fremont area man Monday morning was being sought by animal control officials in connection of what is being described as a bizarre case involving dismembered animals. Meanwhile, a Goldsboro man faces felony animal abuse charges after he strangled...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Filling storefronts: Officials see some interest in Wayne County locations
Real estate signs peel from the darkened windows in the cluster of empty offices on Wayne Memorial Drive, while cater-corner to the suite of barren storefronts, the grassy lot set aside for a grocery store is occupied only by crows....Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Deadline for state government summer internships is Jan. 21
RALEIGH -- North Carolina residents attending a college, university, technical institute or community college have until Jan. 21 to apply for one of 100 paid state government internships available for summer 2009. The State Government Internship Program offers students real-world...Published: Jan 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, January 4, 2009
A slice of the pie: Wayne County sends $148 million list to state
Talk of a federal $700 billion economic stimulus package might just be pie in the sky. But just in case it isn't, Wayne County Manager Lee Smith wants the county to be positioned to be served a $148.3 million...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
The end of Christmas: Annual Hispanic festival reaches across community
Saturday morning dawned a bit damp and dreary, but Willie Cartagena remained optimistic it would turn into a bright and mild winter day for the fifth annual Three Kings Festival, or Id De Los Tres Reyes Mago, at the...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
A slice of the pie: Goldsboro finds $16 million in projects for request
Goldsboro officials say they have three projects worth $17.45 million that could be ready to go should the federal government decide to progress with a much-talked about economic stimulus package. City Manager Joe Huffman said the North Carolina League of...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
A year filled with change, valor marks '08 at SJAFB
Tears were shed on the flight line when airmen left for war -- then again months later when those same men and women touched back down at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. Awards were earned by squadrons and individuals --...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Superintendent says facilities will be among priorities in '09
Superintendent Dr. Steven Taylor is looking back at what he sees as a pivotal and successful year for the Wayne County Public Schools. And as he looks ahead to 2009, construction is on his mind. In 2008, progress was made...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive officials to eye traffic shift in downtown area
MOUNT OLIVE -- The decades-old flow of traffic through downtown could change should town commissioners Monday night act on what is being called a dangerous situation that leaves the town facing a major liability. State Department of Transportation and...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Commission to discuss fire districts
The fate of Cherry Hospital and freeing up the use of 911 fees are among the issues that Wayne County commissioners hope to bring to the table when the N.C. Association of County Commissioners holds its Legislative Goals Conference...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Parks and rec plan tops City Council agenda
Goldsboro City Council members will hear the final outlook on the status of the city's parks and recreation facilities Monday night when the final draft of the comprehensive master plan will be up for approval. The plan includes a...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Man, 32, charged with sex with teen
A 32-year-old Virginia man is charged with the statutory rape of a 15-year-old Wayne County girl, authorities say. Isaac Garcia-Perez, 32, is charged with one count of statutory rape and was jailed on Dec. 31 under a $50,000 bond, Detective...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne County Services on Aging to offer caregiver program
Wayne County Services on Aging, along with Duplin County officials, will be holding a six-week program in February for caregivers. The workshops will focus on helping caregivers learn ways to better cope with the physical and emotional demands of...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Rabbit hunting
Rabbit hunters were out in force around Pikeville Saturday. The hunting season will last until the end of February....Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Red Cross to offer classes in January
The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross is offering the following classes in January: CPR/automated external defibrillator -- Jan. 20 from 6 to 10 p.m. It will cover the basics of how to save a life using CPR...Published: Jan 4, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, January 2, 2009
Wayne Memorial Hospital nurse gets new job ... and citizenship
When Aurelia Dolinta came to the United States six years ago, she knew it was the land of opportunity. She and husband Johnny and daughter Yvonne, then 5, made it their home -- and earlier this year became naturalized citizens....Published: Jan 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County eyes water deal for ParkEast
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday are expected to consider an agreement that calls for them to spend $1.29 million on water improvements for fire protection at ParkEast, the county's industrial park off U.S. 70. The agreement with the Eastern Wayne...Published: Jan 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Prevention tops goals for health department chief as 2009 dawns
Wayne County Health Director James Roosen says his department will do more this year in the way of preventive medicine, hoping to help drive down the costs of health care -- and to battle concerns like teenage pregnancy and obesity....Published: Jan 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Red Cross and Butterball provide New Year's meal
More than 100 local needy people had a traditional New Year's ham dinner today at the Community Soup Kitchen, thanks to the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross and Butterball. The hams were donated by the CAPS...Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Area experiences power outage
Close to 15,000 Progress Energy customers were without power at one time or another Wednesday, including more than 1,400 in the Goldsboro area, because of high winds. James Boyette with the Wayne County Office of Emer-gency Services, said there...Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive Pickle Drop celebrates New Year
MOUNT OLIVE -- Three-year-old William Howard didn't seem to mind the cold as he ran around in front of his parents, pausing from time to time to blow into the horn he was clutching. "The pickle fall down. Yeah....Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Top news stories of 2008
For many, a new year brings with it the offer of a clean slate -- a chance to move beyond the failures and misfortunes of the previous 365 days. But the aftertaste of 2008 will likely linger for some time....Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Locals wonder what 2009 will bring
John Franklin is worried. "New Year's always makes you wonder where you'll be on the next one," the 58-year-old said. "But this time around, I just hope I'm not laid off -- that I can put food on the...Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro man shot this morning
A Goldsboro man who was shot early this morning is in stable condition just hours after he was found lying in a William Street parking lot. Charles Demont Best was taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital moments after a neighbor heard...Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
A look back at 2008
JANUARY Jan. 1 -- Wayne County was in the exceptional drought category, the highest and most dangerous category on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale. Jan. 7 -- Duplin County Commissioner L.S. Guy announced he would not seek re-election. Jan. 7...Published: Jan 1, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story